Celebrate the Holidays With Windstar Cruises
SEATTLE, July 30 -- Celebrate the holidays in style on board
one of three Windstar Cruises' luxury yachts exploring the
hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most
sought-after destinations. Windstar provides the perfect
winter holiday vacation in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere
in the Caribbean or Costa Rica to rejoice with travel
companions.
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Wind Spirit's 7-day holiday cruise
features sparkling white sands, tropical fish and
turquoise waters and departs from St. Thomas on Dec
20 visiting St. John, St. Martin, St. Barts, Jost Van
Dyke and Virgin Gorda.
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Wind Star offers a 7-day holiday
sailing in Costa Rica, an exotic destination famous for
its natural beauty, lush jungles and rich variety of
wildlife. The cruise departs Puerto Caldera on Dec
20 and visits Curu, Tortuga Island, Bahia Paraiso,
Golfito, Isla de Coiba and Quepos.
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Wind Surf's 7-day holiday voyage
departing Dec 21 from Bridgetown, visits the
Caribbean's sunny beaches, charming towns and natural
wonders of Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Martin, Dominica
and St. Lucia.
Each Windstar ship is decorated with
beautiful holiday decorations including trees, wreathes,
garlands and lights. Guests will savor a holiday menu
specially prepared by the ships' executive chefs featuring
roasted turkey and traditional accompaniments in additional
to other culinary delights.
Wind Surf's 7-day New Year's Eve cruise departs Bridgetown
on Dec 28 sails to Tobago, Trinidad, Grenada,
Martinique and St. Vincent. Guests will be able to partake
in a festive New Year's Eve party complete with party
favors, live music, official countdown by the captain and
champagne toast.
Windstar Cruises offers exciting shore excursions in the
various ports of call. Guests will be able to explore local
culture and attractions in each destination. Each ship's
watersports platform will be opened in certain ports while
at anchor for guests to kayak, windsurf, and waterski.
Snorkeling and scuba diving excursions are also available
for a fee.
Guests can also unwind on deck in chaise lounges soaking up
the sun by the pool. At dusk, gorgeous sunsets emerge and
evening brings skies filled with stars for gazing. Each
ship's WindSpa presents a menu of spa services designed to
pamper, soothe, relax and rejuvenate guests.
A leader in defining the small ship luxury cruise experience
for more than 20 years, Windstar has won the allegiance of a
new generation of contemporary travelers who appreciate the
line's luxurious accommodations, alternative dining venues,
diversity of shore excursions, complimentary water sports
program, deluxe spa facilities, and casual elegance. The
recently completed multi-million dollar Degrees of
Difference enhancements on all three ships focused on
structural and technical operations along with upgrades to
guest areas, remodeled bathrooms in staterooms and an
expanded beauty salon and spa. In order to take the ship's
comfort level to a new degree of luxury, Apple iPod Nanos
and Bose SoundDock speakers, wireless Internet, flat screen
televisions, luxury linens and mattresses as well as
L'Occitane bathroom amenities were added in each stateroom
across the fleet.
Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for
their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit
the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most
treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the
luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations,
calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and
the Americas. For more information including rates and
itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call
Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at
www.windstarcruises.com
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The Winter European Off Season is 'On' With Costa's Budget
Friendly Mediterranean Sailings
MIAMI, July 29 -- With travelers more attuned than
ever to the rising cost of enjoying a European vacation,
many are discovering what savvy globetrotters have long
known--that sailing with Costa in the balmy Mediterranean
"off season" winter months is "on." From November through
March, Europe's Number One Cruise Line will offer 7-12 night
cruises throughout the Southern Mediterranean locales of the
Canary Islands, Greece, Turkey, Morocco and Egypt.
Sailing with Costa in the Mediterranean winter months offers
travelers the best of both worlds in terms of value and
experience when visiting Europe. Lower air fare and cruise
fares combined with California-like temperatures and fewer
crowds give travelers a comfortable, value-driven
experience. Moreover, Costa's unique international ambience,
marked by warm Italian hospitality and sophisticated guests
from around the world create a true European experience for
travelers.
One of Costa's best Winter Mediterranean values takes guests
to Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands aboard the new
Costa Serena on a 10-night voyage departing on Dec 8, 2008.
Guests will depart from Savona (Portofino) and visit
Barcelona, Casablanca, St. Cruz de Tenerife, Funchal
(Madeira) and Malaga. The 3,000 double occupancy capacity
Costa Serena is one of the most innovative ships in the
Costa fleet, boasting one of the largest spas at sea, one of
the largest enclosable pool decks on a ship and an authentic
Grand Prix race car driving simulator. The Costa Serena was
created for year-round winter Mediterranean cruising with
its expansive wellness center and pool deck that may be
enjoyed any time of the year.
"It's no secret in savvy travel circles that visiting Europe
in the off-season is one of the best values out there and
it's no secret in even savvier circles that Costa has long
been an even better value and richer experience in doing
so," said Maurice M. Zarmati, President and CEO of Costa
Cruise Lines-North America. "Not only will guests get a
taste of Italy, but they'll also sail off to fantastic
European winter hot spots including the Canary Islands and
Morocco. With fares as low as they are, there's no reason
travelers shouldn't be considering this as their first
option for a winter cruise destination."
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe's number one cruise line.
For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world,
offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine
and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and
relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million guests chose to cruise
with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The
company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive
characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag
and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean,
Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South
America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the
Indian Ocean. For reservations or more information, contact
a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit
www.costacruises.com.
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Cruise West Announces 2008-09 Japan Itinerary
SEATTLE, July 29 – Cruise West, a leading innovator of
small-ship itineraries, has announced 12 departures of the
Hidden Treasures of Japan itinerary for the 2008-09 season.
The 12-day/11-night voyage throughout ancient islands
explores UNESCO World Heritage Sites, pauses briefly in
South Korea, and visits Japanese port towns, traditional
gardens, holy shrines and hidden castles, many tucked away
in harbors that only a small ship such as a Cruise West
vessel can access.
Sailing alongside an international crew on the all-suite
Spirit of Oceanus, the most spacious and luxurious of Cruise
West’s fleet, guests can select from four departures in
October 2008, four in March 2009 and four in October 2009.
Prices begin at $5,849 per person, round trip; cruises sail
roundtrip from Kobe. Guests booking a fall 2008 departure
will receive a $250 shipboard credit.
After flying into Osaka, guests are transferred from the
airport to Kobe, one of Japan’s most livable and attractive
cities, situated between the coast and the mountains. Guests
will explore Kobe, including a stop at the spectacular
Himeji (White Egret) Castle, the country’s most beautiful
stronghold. The ship begins its voyage departing from Kobe,
sailing for the ancient castle town of Okayama, home to
Japan’s most famous garden, the Korakuen Garden. Tours of
Kurashiki’s 300-year-old rice warehouses, homes of samurai,
and the renowned Ohara Museum follow.
Delving deeper into the history and culture of Japan, guests
will learn the process of implanting, harvesting, extracting
and sorting precious pearls in Uwajima, be welcomed into a
small mountainside home of a fourth generation abbot for tea
with his family, and tread on the precious island of
Yakushima, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere
Reserve with nearly 2,000 Japanese cedar trees. The last
several days of the journey include the town of Nagasaki,
one of the few ports open to foreign traders during Japan’s
250-year period of isolation and the second to be destroyed
by an atomic bomb in World War II, then a brief visit to
Kyongju, South Korea, complete with a Korean barbeque lunch.
The voyage continues to Hiroshima, a once-battered city now
thriving and devoted to peace. Guests will tour Peace Park,
Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum; after a visit to
Takamatsu, a feudal capitol in the 1600s, the ship will
return to Kobe for transfer to Kansai International Airport.
Intrepid explorers can indulge in a three-day pre-cruise
excursion that includes two days exploring Kyoto, the
cultural center of Japan known as Nihon no Furasato (the
Heart of Japan). Highlights include the Ryoanji (Peaceful
Dragon) Temple, founded in 1450 and famous for its 13-stone
Zen garden and considered by many to be the single greatest
masterpiece of Japanese culture. The third day will be spent
sightseeing in Nara, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kiyomizu Temple, built on stilts and offering a spectacular
view of the city. For additional information on the Japan
itinerary visit
www.cruisewest.com or call 1-800-689-1783.
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Star Clippers Offers Free Air to Tahiti from Los Angeles
MIAMI, July 29 -- Star Clippers is offering guests free
round-trip air travel to Tahiti from Los Angeles, Calif., on
several departures in 2008 and 2009. Eligible departure
dates for the seven-night cruise with complimentary airfare
are Dec. 7 and 14, 2008, and 2009 sailings include Jan. 18,
March 8 and 22, April 5, May 10, June 21, July 5 and Aug. 9.
The 10-night cruises with complimentary airfare depart April
23, June 11, July 23 and Sept. 3, 2009. Reservations must be
made before Nov. 30, 2008, and port charges, air tax and a
fuel surcharge are additional.
Star Flyer sails year-round from Papeete, Tahiti, where
guests experience a sailing adventure to some of the most
spectacular sites in the world. Onboard, guests enjoy all
the amenities and activities of a private yacht, and shore
excursions explore the fascinating culture and history of
the Polynesian people.
The seven-night itinerary calls at Huahine, Raiatea, Taha'a,
Bora Bora, and Cook Bay and Opunohu Bay, Moorea, with an
overnight in Papeete before disembarkation.
The 10-night cruise takes Star Flyer to the Society Islands
and Tuamotu Atolls, with special cruising in the Rangiroa
Lagoon. The ship calls at Fakarava, Rangiroa, Bora Bora,
Raiatea, Taha'a, Huahine and Moorea.
To request a brochure, call toll-free (800) 442-0556 or
e-mail
brochures@starclippers.com. To make a reservation,
contact a travel professional. For information, call Star
Clippers at (800) 442-0551 or visit
www.starclippers.com
to view a video about the line or take a virtual tour of the
Star Clippers ships.
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Crystal's 2009 World Cruise Segments - Extra Perks & Extra
Savings
LOS ANGELES, July 28 -- Crystal Cruises is offering a host
of new savings incentives and added value to guests booking
the first two back- to-back segments of its 14th annual 2009
World Cruise. The 26-day voyage from Los Angeles to
Auckland, New Zealand now offers free air transportation
back to the U.S., a combination-fare discount, a full
payment discount, and no fuel surcharge. The new savings are
valued between $2,000 and $3,300 per couple. Further, guests
taking two segments of the World Cruise enjoy a $200 per
person onboard spending credit and two complimentary shore
tours, as well as the added entertainment, classes and
activities inherent in a Crystal World Cruise.
"Crystal World Cruise guests know that these itineraries
include special onboard and shoreside programming and events
that are unique to the World Cruise," says Bill Smith,
senior vice president of sales and marketing. "These offers
allow guests to take an extended portion of the worldwide
journey, and realize fantastic savings."
Special savings add up:
--Free air transportation: Available from Auckland, New
Zealand back to 20 U.S. gateways (or $600 air credit per
person);
--5% Combo Savings: Usually offered to guests taking two or
more non-World Cruise voyages, has been extended to the
first two segments of the 2008 World Cruise -- save up
$2,900 per couple;
--3.5% Full Payment Discount: Guests paying for the back to
back segments in full by October 27, 2008, can save up to
$1,924 per couple;
--No Fuel Surcharge: Receive a rollback of the $12 per
person per day fuel surcharge (save $312 per person).
--Grand total savings up to $6,600 per couple.
Added World Cruise value:
-- $200 CruiseBank shipboard credit for guests taking two
World Cruise segments.
-- Complimentary Crystal Adventures shore excursions in Cabo
San Lucas, Mexico and Noumea, New Caledonia.
-- More onboard Creative Learning Institute enrichments
classes, including progressive Berlitz language and Yamaha
music programs.
-- More lecturers from celebrity and special-interest guest
speakers and experts.
-- Nearly a dozen brand new Crystal Adventures -- from
swimming with dolphins in Cabo San Lucas to exploring New
Zealand by Kayak and helicopter.
From Los Angeles to Auckland, Crystal Serenity will call in
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands; and
French Polynesia's Rangiroa, Moorea, Papeete and Bora Bora;
Rarotonga, Cook Islands; Suva, Fiji; Noumea, New Caledonia;
and Waitangi (Bay of Islands), New Zealand. Crystal
Serenity's full World Cruise -- "Pacific Circle Celebration"
-- spans the globe, visiting 46 ports of call in 17
countries throughout the South Pacific, Asia, Africa and
Europe. The seven distinctive segments range from 12 to 22
days. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact
a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's
website,
www.crystalcruises.com.
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MSC Fantasia's Aurea Spa: Balinese Center Offers
the Epitome of Wellbeing Afloat
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, July 28 – In addition to the
contemporary design and impeccable service onboard the new
MSC Fantasia, which will be christened in December, guests
can enjoy a timeless space that allows them to focus on
their total wellbeing. This beautiful new ship, the largest
ever commissioned by a European ship owner, will represent a
veritable floating microcosm, with ample space dedicated to
wellness.
The AUREA SPA will be an authentic Balinese wellness center
offering innovative treatments. Located on deck 14, it will
occupy 17,384 square feet divided into specific areas,
including the Thalassotherapy Room, Thermal Area, Gymnasium
and Relaxation Area. Each area has been designed to offer
guests the best in wellbeing care all in a soothing setting
in which guests are surrounded by precious mosaics in tones
of bronze and gold, ornamental plants and scents of perfumed
essential oils.
The Thalassotherapy Room will have three ample treatment
rooms, all facing the sea. It is in this area that the
Balinese massages - the signature treatments of the AUREA
SPA – will take place. The huge choice of treatments will
include reflexology, lava stones and infrared massage,
cranial massage, shiatsu as well as special relaxing
treatments to deal with stress – all carried out by experts
from the island of Bali. The Thalassotherapy Room will also
house the latest generation of Q-Age therapies, offering
sauna, vapor and infrared, thalassotherapy, vichy shower -
all the treatments needed to balance the body’s energy. The
vast array of treatment benefit connected to Q-AGE range
from thalassotherapy to deeply purify the skin, sauna and
steam to re-establish the skin’s elasticity, and infrared
sauna to relieve fatigue and tension as well as Vichy shower
for lymphatic drainage, vibromassage to stimulate
circulation, and aromatherapy and hydro massage.
Q-AGE and the AUREA SPA offer effective thalassotherapy -
with treatments such as “Flowers and Sea” and “Sea and
Volcanoes” to regain youthful and toned skin.
Q-AGE offers a vast selection of treatments that combine
technology with the ancient Balinese art of massage:
--Balinese Aroma, to eliminate toxins
--Bali Sun Rise Lulur, ideal to prepare the skin for
exposure to the sun
--Bali Moisture of the Sun Set, perfect after sun to extend
the suntan
--Bali Luxury Men’s Treatment, dedicated to male clients
In the same area, three advanced technologies are also
offered under medical supervision: Q-Frequency, to combat
the slackening of muscle tone in both face and body,
excellent results are achieved for those with wrinkles; Mya
Advance, the non-surgical alternative to liposculpture and
the perfect antidote for body shape as well as treating
specific areas suffering with stubborn fatty deposits; plus
Active-Press, for lymphatic drainage. The Active Press
offers one of the most efficient methods to combat
cellulite. It also helps to eliminate water retention and
heavy feeling in the limbs. This treatment requires the
client to wear special leggings which provide gentle
pressure on the areas that need to be treated, including
buttocks, thighs, calves and ankles. Pressure can be applied
with essential oils to enhance the drainage action.
The Thermal Area consists of 1,614 square feet of sparkling
mosaics and will have 4 saunas heated to 80 degrees, plus 2
Turkish Baths heated to 45 degrees. After a relaxing
Balinese massage, the thermarium will be the best way to
eliminate toxins from the body.
Last—but by no means least—is the 4,467-square-foot
Gymnasium. It is fitted with the latest equipment and
adapted for dance instruction. The Relaxation Area has very
comfortable lounges and a huge window that allows guests to
enjoy the views.
A “must” is a visit to the AUREA SPA hairdressers and the
bar dedicated to healthy living, where many fruit and
vegetable beverages will be freshly made.
MSC Fantasia will be christened in Naples on Dec. 18, by the
company’s Godmother, Sophia Loren. For the winter season
2008/2009, MSC Fantasia will be based out of the port of
Genoa and will offer two exciting holiday itineraries. The
first will be the Christmas cruise, which departs Dec. 20 on
an 8-night cruise that visits Greece and Egypt. A New Year's
Eve cruise departs Dec. 28 on an 8-night sailing that calls
into Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar. Beginning on Jan. 5,
2009 and running through Feb. 18, 2009, MSC Fantasia will
sail 11-night cruises, from Genoa, Barcelona and
Civitavecchia, to discover the treasures of Gibraltar,
Madeira and the Canary Islands. The ship will sail 7-night
Western Mediterranean itineraries March 1 through Oct. 17,
2009 from Genoa and Barcelona. For more information about
MSC Cruises, visit
www.msccruisesusa.com or a local travel professional.
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Costa Cruises Commissions Monumental Sculpture by Fernando
Botero to Add to Fleet's Multimillion Dollar Art
Collection
MIAMI, July 28 -- Costa, Europe's Number One Cruise Line,
has commissioned a monumental bronze sculpture by
world-renowned artist Fernando Botero for its newest ship,
the Costa Luminosa. The bronze sculpture is currently taking
shape at the Mariani foundry in Pietrasanta, Italy, where
Botero creates his works using the ancient traditional
technique of lost wax casting. Once completed, the work of
art will be installed in the atrium of the Costa Luminosa in
May 2009, when the ship comes into service. "Reclining Woman
2004" depicts a voluminous female figure staring into space,
daydreaming in a reclining position with a subtle and ironic
expression and with her legs in a dynamic position of
movement. The sculpture, which is 346 cm in length, 177 cm
in breadth, 152 cm in height and 910 kg in weight, boasts an
imposing presence which defines and influences the
surrounding space, establishing an ongoing dialogue with the
decoration in the atrium of the Costa Luminosa. The lone
individual is the subject of many of the artist's works,
which often feature single female figures in striking poses,
with expressions and attire that Botero uses to telling
effect in order to convey personality, experience, thought
and desire.
"The decision to acquire the sculpture 'Reclining Woman
2004' by Fernando Botero for the Costa Luminosa is first and
foremost the consequence of a personal passion for that
artist's creative work as a whole and also represents the
continuation of a tradition for Costa, namely that of
decorating our ships with contemporary works embracing the
various forms of expressive art and displaying them to our
guests on vacation," said Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and
CEO of Costa Crociere. "This particular sculpture by Botero
has such expressive force and energy that it will interact
with and influence the setting and interior design in the
spectacular atrium of the ship where it is to be permanently
exhibited."
The Costa Luminosa (92,700 gross tonnage and total guest
capacity of 2,260) will be a trendsetter in contemporary
design. The ship will draw her inspiration from the idea of
light in all its forms and in keeping with Costa Cruises'
tradition of choosing a central theme for the interior
decoration of each ship. With the Costa Luminosa, this theme
will highlight iridescent interiors decorated with superior
materials including fine marble, wood and mother-of-pearl
and the use of state-of-the-art technology that will provide
stunning light and color effects. Botero's specially
commissioned sculpture will become the symbol of the ship
herself, which will combine the very best of the Costa
product, designed to satisfy even the most discerning
customer.
The central staircase onboard the Costa Luminosa will
display a set of previously unpublished photographs,
entitled "A Homage to the Master" and consisting of nine
panels by Matteo Piazza depicting the artist Botero at work
on paintings and sculptures. The large photographs are in
black and white and measure 210x120 cm. As with all ships in
the Costa fleet, the public areas and cabins on the Costa
Luminosa will feature the works of selected contemporary
artists commissioned to carry out original creative projects
based on the central idea of interior decoration. The ships
in the Costa fleet are veritable floating resorts offering
accommodations, entertainment, enjoyment and relaxation for
over one million guests each year. Costa's multimillion
dollar art collection aboard its fleet of ships is displayed
in public areas of the ship, which become natural settings
for the display and appreciation of works of art in a
traveling exhibition seen by a vast and culturally diverse
public.
Over the past 60 years, Costa has established itself as a
modern-day patron of the arts by acquiring and installing
works of art onboard its fleet of ships by leading
international sculptors and paintings commissioned from
contemporary artists and inspired by themes of each ship.
These constitute an artistic heritage and superb floating
collection on all 12 ships in service. Five more vessels
have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. For
reservations or more information, contact a travel agent,
call (800) GO-COSTA or visit
www.costacruises.com.
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Stars Shine With Celebrity Cruises: 'Soap Cruise' to Set
Sail
on Celebrity Century
MIAMI, July 28 -- Cruise enthusiasts who enjoy the intrigue,
drama and romance of daytime TV's most popular soap operas -
and the actors who star in them - are likely to find the
vacation of their dreams in "Soap Cruise," which will be
held on Celebrity Century in 2009. Soap Cruise - the second
voyage of its kind - will pair Celebrity's Star
Treatment(SM) with exclusive activities allowing guests who
have purchased the Soap Cruise package the opportunity to
directly interact with 16 of the hottest actors on all eight
of daytime TV's top shows. The activities will include
autograph and photo sessions, soap opera trivia games, an
elite cocktail party with the stars, and other special
events, including the opportunity to write a script and act
it out with one of the stars.
Hosting Soap Cruise will be Cameron Mathison, who plays
"Ryan" on All My Children, and has appeared on Dancing with
the Stars. Mathison will be joined on Celebrity Century by
fellow All My Children actors Alicia Minshew ("Kendall") and
Jacob Young ("J.R."); Austin Peck ("Brad") from As the World
Turns; Brandon Beemer ("Owen") of The Bold and the Beautiful
and formerly "Shawn" on Days of Our Lives; Winsor Harmon
("Thorne") and Lesli Kay ("Felicia") of The Bold and the
Beautiful; Nadia Bjorlin ("Chloe") and Jay Johnson
("Philip") of Days of Our Lives; Bradford Anderson ("Spinelli")
and Greg Vaughn ("Lucky") from General Hospital; Murray
Bartlett ("Cyrus") and Ricky Paull Goldin ("Jake") of All My
Children, formerly ("Gus") on Guiding Light; Kamar de los
Reyes ("Antonio") on One Life to Live; and Don Diamont
("Brad") and Christian LeBlanc ("Michael") of The Young and
the Restless.
The soap stars will mix it up exclusively with guests who
have booked the Soap Cruise package on Celebrity Century's
January 22 itinerary departing roundtrip from Miami, with
visits to Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico. A limited
number of staterooms have been reserved for guests
interested in experiencing Soap Cruise. For reservations and
to view images and video from last year's Soap Cruise, visit
www.soapcruise.com
or call (248) 855-7918. Bookings on Celebrity Century's
January 22 itinerary through other avenues will not include
access to Soap Cruise activities.
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Holland America Line Offers Early Advantage Fares on 2009
Cruises
Booked by September 15
SEATTLE, July 25 -- Gearing up for its 2009 cruise season,
Holland America Line will offer Early Advantage savings on a
wide selection of cruises and CruiseTours when booked by
September 15, 2008. Past guests can save even more, and on
select sailings, special fares are available for third or
fourth guests who share the same stateroom starting at just
$99 per person. With savings of up to $2,200 per person, the
Early Advantage promotion encompasses an extensive selection
of 2009 cruises sailing to more than 320 ports of call in
destinations around the world: Alaska, Asia, Australia/New
Zealand, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii,
Mexico, Panama Canal, and South America/Antarctica.
Highlights of next year's deployment include the first full
year of itineraries aboard the new ms Eurodam; four
distinctive Grand Voyages of 50 to 117-days aboard ms
Rotterdam, ms Prinsendam and ms Amsterdam; full Panama Canal
transits in fall and winter aboard ms Statendam; ms
Oosterdam sailing in South America as the first Vista-class
ship in the Southern Hemisphere; and more than 20 new ports
introduced worldwide.
"Cruising is a popular vacation choice and a very good value
today so we want to reward those who book early," said
Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president,
marketing, sales and guest programs. "Planning ahead means
even greater savings plus more stateroom and departure
options."
For example, with these special advance fares, guests can
book a 10-day Mediterranean cruise with fares starting as
low as $1,449 per person, double occupancy, for an inside
stateroom and $2,149 for a verandah -- and third or fourth
guests cost from only $299. A 16-day South America cruise
starts at $1,899 for an inside or outside stateroom. A
14-day Australia/New Zealand cruise starts at $1,699 for an
inside and $1,899 for an outside.
In other regions, a 7-day Caribbean cruise starts at $599
for inside staterooms and $899 for verandahs. A 15-day
Circle Hawaii cruise starts at $1,499 with an optional
upgrade to an outside stateroom for only $200. And a 14-day
full transit of the Panama Canal begins at $1,499 for an
inside or $1,799 for an outside.
The popular 7-day Alaskan Explorer cruise, roundtrip from
Seattle, starts at $699 for inside staterooms or $1,149 for
verandahs. Another option is an Alaska CruiseTour, varying
in length from 11 to 20 days, starting at $1,249 for inside
staterooms and $1,449 for outside staterooms.
For more information, consult a travel agent, call
1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit
www.hollandamerica.com.
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Oceania Cruises Introduces the 2009 European Collection
Brochure
MIAMI, FL, July 24 – Oceania Cruises announced the launch of
its 2009 European Collection Brochure. With 56 voyages to
choose from, Oceania Cruises offers travelers an enticing
selection of European cruises that are unrivaled in breadth
and scope. For a limited time, Oceania Cruises has expanded
its Free Airfare offer from 20 North American gateways to
more than 100 and is offering 2 for 1 Cruise Fares that make
Europe a phenomenal travel bargain.
With a striking cover that portrays the rich artistry,
culture and history of Europe, the 112-page brochure details
the line’s diverse array of 10- to 28-day itineraries.
Sailing to the Greek Isles, Western Mediterranean and
Northern Europe, Oceania Cruises has crafted a wondrous
array of voyages with the ideal blend of cosmopolitan
destinations and boutique ports of call. To provide
travelers with unrivaled opportunities to immerse themselves
in the history, culture and cuisines of Europe, an
astounding number of overnight port stays are included, with
as many as five on one voyage.
“We have designed this collection of European voyages to
offer countless opportunities for enriching discoveries.
With itineraries from the northern reaches of Scandinavia
and Russia to the mystical Greek Isles, Israel, and Egypt,
our 2009 European Collection is one of our most diverse
ever,” stated Bob Binder, President of Oceania Cruises.
Highlights of the 2009 European Collection
§ A new 14-day Egypt and Israel itinerary sails from
Barcelona to Istanbul and includes Tunisia, Malta, Greece,
Egypt, Israel, Cyprus and Turkey. This voyage departs aboard
Nautica on June 27, Insignia on August 9 and Regatta on
October 31.
§ 5th Annual Oceania Club Reunion Cruise – departing from
Rome on October 5, 2009, this extraordinary 12-day voyage
calls on a dozen ports in five fascinating countries. With a
stellar line-up of ports that includes Venice, Cinque Terre,
Dubrovnik, Kotor, and Monte Carlo to name just a few,
Oceania Club members will be feted with exclusive cocktail
parties, members-only lunches and dinners, private shore
excursions and additional surprises.
§ Regatta returns to Scandinavia and Russia and sails to
Norway and the British Isles for the very first time. A
12-day Norwegian Fjords and British Isles cruise sails
roundtrip from Dover on July 13 and calls on Edinburgh,
Invergordon, Alesund, Hellesylt, Belfast, Dublin, Waterford,
and Fowey.
Oceania Cruises’ expansion of FREE Airfare from 20 to more
than 100 North American gateways and 2 for 1 Cruise Fares is
a limited time offer and expires August 31, 2008. Stateroom
and suite availability on many voyages is already limited.
Consumers and Travel Agents may order the new brochure
online at
www.OceaniaCruises.com or by calling 800-531-5658.
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Crystal's Ultimate Wine Experience for
$1,300 per Person
LOS ANGELES, July 23 -- A $5,000-per-bottle 1989 Petrus and
an increasingly rare 2000 Chateau Hosanna top the list of
nearly-impossible-to-get wines procured for Crystal Cruises'
ultimate wine experience on Crystal Serenity's August 24
Mediterranean cruise. Decanter magazine's 2008 "Man of the
Year" Christian Moueix is bringing these and other
impressive vintages from his private collection for the
$1,300 per person event, available for just 14
discriminating guests. Throughout the evening, Moueix, who
oversees his family's French estates in Saint Emilion and
Pomerol and owns the Dominus Estate in Napa Valley, will
guide connoisseurs on the fine nuances of each selection.
"To enjoy these extremely rare wines and to have the
personal guidance of an expert such as Mr. Moueix is an
amazing treat for one's senses," says Toni Neumeister, vice
president, food & beverage. "For even the most discerning
palates, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Three- Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck of Rome's acclaimed
La Pergola is collaborating to prepare a menu that perfectly
pairs food with the wine. Among the multiple courses are
Beck's signature Fagottelli "La Pergola," Carpaccio of
Scallops on Amaranth Grain and Black Corn with Ginger Oil
and Crepinette of Lamb.
Superstar wines featured include:
-- Chateau Petrus, Pomerol, France, 1989 -- from Mr.
Moueix's private collection.
-- Chateau Hosanna, Pomerol, France, 2000 -- from Mr.
Moueix's private collection.
-- Dominus, Napa Valley, California, 1991 -- from Mr.
Moueix's private collection.
-- Chateau Trotanoy, Pomerol, France, 1995 -- from Mr.
Moueix's private collection.
-- Chateau D'Yquem, Sauternes, France, 1983
-- Salon Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne Le Mesnil, France,
1997
-- Chateau Haut-Brion Blanc, Pessac-Leognan, France, 2004
-- Abtsberg Riesling Auslese 101 Maximin Grunhauser,
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany, 1990
The dinner can only be purchased on board and will be served
in Crystal Serenity's intimate Vintage Room. Introduced in
mid-2007, the first three Ultimate Vintage Room Dinners sold
out in a matter of hours. Besides these experiences, on
every cruise Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony offer
Vintage Rooms dinners, typically priced at $210-$250 per
person, depending on wines selected.
The 12-day August 24 itinerary will also host the
President's cruise, calling in Turkey's Kusadasi; Santorini,
Rhodes, Crete and Corfu, Greece; and Taormina and Sorrento,
Italy. Cruise fares start at $4,995 per person, double
occupancy. For more information or Crystal reservations,
contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the
luxury line's website at
www.crystalcruises.com.
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Cruise West Announces Five Specialty Cruises in Mexico
SEATTLE, July 23, 2008 – Cruise West, a leading innovator of
small-ship itineraries, announces its eight-day Mexico’s Sea
of Cortés Whales & Wildlife schedule for 2008-2009. Whales &
Wildlife sails aboard the 138-guest Spirit of Yorktown and
will offer 14 departures, including five specialty cruises
and a new, optional post-cruise excursion to benefit the La
Paz Children’s Home in Baja, Mexico. The specialty
itineraries include John Steinbeck-inspired cruises with
literary experts aboard, a PENTAX photography cruise with
professional photographers, and two holiday itineraries.
After experiencing seven days of exotic wildlife and idyllic
beaches, guests aboard the March 7, 2009 sailing can opt to
disembark in La Paz to assist in a “work party” at the La
Paz Children’s Home. The work party is part of Cruise West’s
“Our Bear Cares” program and was created in partnership with
the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, the travel
organizer for the World Affairs Councils of America.
Volunteers will spend two nights in La Paz with one full day
spent working at the children’s home. The optional excursion
is $225 per person, double occupancy.
Guests aboard the Christmas sailing, departing Dec 20, 2008,
will enjoy a traditional Nochebuena Christmas Eve feast and
unwind for a Feliz Navidad on a remote beach with festive
Mexican holiday activities. New Year’s guests on the
December 27, 2008 departure will celebrate the Feliz Año
Nuevo with a midnight toast and late night buffet, as well
as a stop in La Paz to celebrate the “Epiphany” or “Three
Kings” day.
On the Jan 3 and 10, 2009 sailings, guest speakers,
including John Steinbeck scholars, will explain how the
author’s 1940 expedition to the region inspired his The Log
of the Sea of Cortez. The PENTAX photography cruise, sailing
January 17, 2009, features a PENTAX professional
photographer onboard to assist budding Ansel Adams imitators
as they create masterpieces with their cameras.
All Whales & Wildlife guests will experience firsthand the
Sea of Cortés’s abundant concentration of marine life, from
dolphins to sea lions to pelicans. Highlights on the
eight-day itinerary include guided nature walks through lush
islands, snorkeling, kayaking, whale watching aboard a panga
boat in Magdalena Bay (the whales can typically be found
from mid-January thru March), tours of historic missions and
churches and a fiesta complete with Mexican music, dancers
and a piñata. Adventure seekers can add on a four-day
post-cruise Copper Canyon Tour, including a railroad ride
into the Sierra Madres through six interconnecting canyons,
immersion in Tarahumara Indian culture and exploration of
Pancho Villa’s hometown of Chihuaua.
Guests will save up to $350 on departures in December 2009
by booking and paying in full by March 27, 2009; guests will
save up to $175 on departures from Jan through March 2009 by
booking and paying in full by Sept 5, 2008. For additional
information regarding Cruise West’s Sea of Cortés voyage
visit
www.cruisewest.com or call 1-800-296-8307.
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All Guests of Seabourn Odyssey’s Maiden Voyage to Become
“Godparents”
Miami, July 17 – One extraordinary yacht, one
incredible voyage, and 450 godparents. Those are the numbers
behind the highly anticipated launch of Seabourn Odyssey,
the newest member of the Seabourn fleet, in June 2009. Those
fortunate enough to secure one of the few remaining spots
aboard Odyssey’s maiden voyage will share the unprecedented
honor of being named a “godparent” of the new vessel – a
distinction usually reserved for a celebrity or otherwise
noteworthy personality. It’s an honor that will be
recognized for the duration of the luxury yacht’s seagoing
life.
“Everything we do at Seabourn is focused on our guests who,
in a very real sense, are the reason this superb vessel is
being built,” said Pamela C. Conover, president and CEO of
The Yachts of Seabourn. “Those joining Odyssey’s maiden
voyage will not only be treated like a celebrity, but will
become a part of the vessel’s history, representing the many
guests who have sailed with us in the past and those who
will sail on her in the years to come.”
Each passenger aboard Odyssey’s maiden voyage, scheduled to
depart Venice, Italy, on June 24, 2009, will have his or her
name engraved on a plaque to be displayed on board the sleek
yacht. An early-evening ceremony to christen the new yacht
is planned to coincide with the summer sunset over the domes
and steeples of Venice’s skyline – with all 450 godparents
taking part in the momentous event. Seabourn Odyssey will
then make its stately way from the canals to the lagoon and
beyond – a gala, 14-day voyage exploring the Dalmatian
coast, the Greek Isles, and Turkey.
Highlights of the cruise will include sailing into the
dramatic fjord of Kotor in Montenegro, a day of water sports
from the yacht’s marina while anchored off the Greek Isle of
Mylos, and a signature Exclusively Seabourn evening
reception and concert in the torch-lit ruins of Ephesus in
Turkey.
The cruise industry’s first ultra-luxury vessel to be
launched in six years, Seabourn Odyssey is first of three
“new builds” to be introduced by Seabourn. The 32,000-ton
yacht will accommodate 450 guests in luxurious all-suite
accommodations measuring from 290 to over 1,600 square feet,
more than 90 percent of them outfitted with private
verandas. The cruising yacht will offer guests five dining
alternatives, five lounges and bars, an expansive pool and
sunbathing area, and a spectacular two-deck, indoor/outdoor
spa facility of more than 11,400 square-feet.
Seabourn Odyssey’s maiden season will include voyages from
the grand cities and romantic isles of the Mediterranean to
the sparkling waters of the Caribbean, before embarking on
Seabourn’s first-ever World Cruise in January 2010. For more
information or to make a reservation, please contact
Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit
www.seabourn.com.
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Carnival to Expand ‘Seaside Theatre’ Concept to Additional
‘Fun Ships’
MIAMI, July 16 – “Carnival’s Seaside Theatres” --
jumbo-sized LED screens currently featured poolside on five
Carnival “Fun Ships,” including the new 113,300-ton Carnival
Splendor which debuted earlier this month –- will be
expanded to an additional five vessels over the next year.
The massive 270-square-foot screens display a variety of
programming, including movies, concerts, news, sporting
events and the entertaining “Morning Shows” which are hosted
by the ships’ respective cruise directors. Additionally,
during Carnival’s lively deck parties, music videos, along
with live shots of the band and party guests, are displayed.
The first “Seaside Theatre” debuted aboard the 110,000-ton
Carnival Liberty in 2005 and the concept proved so popular
with guests that the facilities have been incorporated into
all of the line’s subsequent new ship projects, including
the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream currently under construction
and set to debut Sept. 12, 2009.
The 101,000-ton Carnival Destiny and 102,000-ton Carnival
Triumph will also be retrofitted with “Seaside Theatres”
during scheduled dry docks later this year with the
110,000-ton Carnival Conquest and Carnival Glory set to
receive the screens next year.
“The ‘Seaside Theatre’ concept has resonated very positively
with guests, providing a fun and interesting outdoor
diversion that is enjoyed both during daytime and nighttime
hours,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice
president of marketing and guest experience. “In addition to
popular movies and major sporting events, our shipboard
staff has made maximum use of the ‘Seaside Theatres,’
broadcasting custom-designed programming such as the
engaging Morning Shows which have been a tremendous hit with
guests,” he added.
The 12-foot-high by 22-foot-wide screens utilize the same
technology featured in large stadiums and New York’s Times
Square and can be seen during both the day and evening
hours. In addition to superior picture quality, the
state-of-the-art entertainment system includes a 70,000-watt
sound system, providing concert quality sound, even
outdoors.
For additional information and reservations on the “Fun
Ship” vacation experience, contact any travel agent, call
1-800-CARNIVAL or visit
www.carnival.com
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Crystal Cruises' Wellness Options Now Include Acupuncture
Enriching its portfolio of wellness opportunities, Crystal
Cruises is introducing onboard acupuncture, along with a
menu of Chinese herbs revered for restoring and enhancing
health, beauty and longevity. A menu of optional acupuncture
treatments, launching this month on Crystal Serenity,
focuses on weight loss, pain management, stress reduction,
detoxification, smoking cessation, facial rejuvenation and
even sea sickness.
"For many, a vacation offers the freedom to try something
new," says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel
operations. "Whether one is just curious or one wants to
pursue new treatments, acupuncture complements Crystal's
myriad of onboard wellness activities, which have
transformed guests into devotees of disciplines like yoga or
reflexology or Spinning."
Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating
fine needles into specific points on the body to ease pain
and for other therapeutic purposes. According to the World
Health Organization and other reputable entities,
acupuncture helps relieve aches and pains; stimulate weight
loss; alleviate stress; detoxify the body; smoking
cessation; seasickness; and anti-aging.
The Crystal acupuncture program includes:
--Onboard acupuncturist - Nancy Kerastas, Crystal Serenity's
licensed acupuncture physician, has been practicing the art
since 2002;
--Menus of Chinese herbs - Includes remedies that reactivate
the body's fat-burning process; stabilize blood sugar
metabolism; and relieve swollen or immobile joints;
--Shipboard seminars - Three to five classes will be held
per cruise,discussing acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine
and Feng Shui practices and benefits.
Guests receive pre-session consultations to discuss their
conditions and medical histories. Cost is $150 for a
60-minute session and can be booked through Crystal's Feng
Shui-designed spa.
Crystal also offers complimentary yoga, Pilates and newly
introduced "Tour de Spin" cycling classes, and an exclusive
Walk on Water program utilizing weighted vests to increase
resistance. The line continues its partnership with the
esteemed Cleveland Clinic to feature onboard lectures and
seminars with leading medical experts.
In December 2008 and in 2009, both Crystal Symphony and
Crystal Serenity host Mind, Body & Spirit theme cruises,
focusing on general wellness through classes and discussions
with guest instructors in Tai Chi, yoga, Pilates and general
fitness. For additional information and Crystal
reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or
visit the line's web site at
www.crystalcruises.com.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Offers Grand Explorations:
Exotic Winter 2009 Voyages
FORT LAUDERDALE, July 15 – Regent Seven Seas Cruises will
offer a series of Grand Explorations aboard the world’s only
all-suite, all-balcony ships Seven Seas Voyager® and Seven
Seas Mariner® as they sail around the globe on exciting
voyages of exploration and discovery this winter. From
January through May 2009, these two 700-guest sister ships
will visit a total of 110 ports of call in 50 countries on
six continents, offering the discerning luxury traveler with
an exciting array of fourteen winter voyages ranging in
length from 12 to 24 nights, highlighting the very best
destinations in the Caribbean, South America, the South
Pacific, New Zealand and Australia, South East Asia, Japan,
India, the Middle East, North Africa and the Mediterranean.
“Regent Seven Seas Cruises has garnered a reputation for
offering world travelers the very best choices in exciting
itineraries that combine some of the greatest port cities of
the world – such as Hong Kong, Sydney and Dubai – with some
of the most geographically remote and rarely-visited islands
on earth – such as the Marquesas and Pitcairn Island,” said
Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas. “We are proud
to offer our guests a truly remarkable choice of luxury
travel experiences aboard our six-star fleet as we present
the most extensive line-up of winter cruises in our
history,” he added.
In addition to the exotic itineraries, these Grand
Explorations will feature celebrity guests who will share
their personal experiences and unique perspectives with
Regent Seven Seas Cruises guests. Former Florida Governor
and Senator Bob Graham, famed hurricane forecaster and
meteorologist Max Mayfield, former NFL coach Don Shula, and
Apollo astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Al Worden will lecture
aboard Seven Seas Mariner. Seven Seas Voyager will feature
humanitarian and Church of England envoy Terry Waite, former
United States Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, and
Apollo astronauts Edgar Mitchell, Charles Duke and Gene
Cernan. Famed environmentalist and film producer Jean-Michel
Cousteau will also join select cruises of Seven Seas Mariner
to offer his own unique insight regarding the marvels of the
world’s oceans.
Complimentary events that provide unique and memorable guest
experiences are offered on each voyage, including exclusive
song and dance demonstrations in Brazil, New Zealand and the
Marquesas Islands; a catamaran adventure in the Chilean
fjords; a visit to the legendary dragons of Komodo Island,
or exclusive events in world-class hotels. And, to make the
voyages even more tempting, these cruises offer special
savings of $3,200 to $35,345 (depending on departure date
and suite category). Free airfare,
shipboard credits, or complimentary hotel
stays are also featured on select departures.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Grand Explorations are as
follows:
South Pacific Passage: 19-night voyage from Los Angeles to
Auckland, New Zealand on Seven Seas Voyager January
13-February 1, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturer Terry Waite.
Complimentary Festival of Arts event in the Marquesas
Islands.
Easter Island and Polynesian Playgrounds: 24-night voyage
from Valparaiso, Chile to Sydney, Australia on Seven Seas
Mariner February 28-March 25, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturer
Jean-Michel Cousteau. Complimentary Maori historic tour and
cultural show in the Bay of Islands.
The Brazilian Riviera: 18-night voyage from Fort Lauderdale
to Buenos Aires, Argentina on Seven Seas Mariner January
26-February 13, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturer Max Mayfield.
Complimentary Brazilian dance celebration in Fortaleza.
Andean Glaciers and Chilean Fjords: 15-night voyage from
Buenos Aires, Argentina to Valparaiso, Chile on Seven Seas
Mariner, February 13-28, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturers
Jean-Michel Cousteau and Don Shula. Complimentary catamaran
excursion in the Chilean fjords.
New Zealand, Land of the Rings: 12-night voyage from
Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia on Seven Seas
Voyager, February 1-13, 2009. Complimentary “French day” in
Akaroa, New Zealand.
Australia and the Orient: 21-night voyage from Sydney,
Australia to Shanghai, China on Seven Seas Voyager, February
13-March 6, 2009.
China and Vietnam: 12-night voyage from Shanghai, China to
Singapore on Seven Seas Voyager, March 6-18, 2009. Celebrity
guest lecturer Sandra Day O’Connor. Complimentary event in
Hong Kong.
The Great Barrier Reef and Bali: 15-night voyage from
Sydney, Australia to Singapore on Seven Seas Mariner, March
25-April 9, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturer Senator Bob
Graham. Meet RSSC executive vice president Ken Watson.
Complimentary excursion to Komodo Dragons in Indonesia.
Great Cities and Land of the Dragon: 14-night voyage from
Singapore to Hong Kong, China on Seven Seas Mariner, April
9-23, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturers Buzz Aldrin and Al
Worden. Complimentary overnight luxury hotel stay in
Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok.
China and Japan: 14-night voyage from Hong Kong, China to
Osaka, Japan on Seven Seas Mariner, April 23-May 7, 2009.
Meet RSSC president Mark Conroy. Complimentary Beijing tour.
Pacific Rim: 14-night voyage from Osaka, Japan to Seward,
Alaska on Seven Seas Mariner, May 7-20, 2009. Celebrity
guest lecturer Jean-Michel Cousteau. Complimentary cocktail
party in Tokyo gardens.
Passage from India: 14-night voyage from Singapore to Dubai,
United Arab Emirates on Seven Seas Voyager, March 18-April
1, 2009. Complimentary Kerala cultural experience in Cochin,
India.
Voyage to Antiquity: 17-night voyage from Dubai, United Arab
Emirates to Istanbul, Turkey on Seven Seas Voyager, April
1-18, 2009. Complimentary visit to Karnak and Luxor, Egypt.
Grand Mediterranean Passage: 20-night voyage from Istanbul,
Turkey to Fort Lauderdale on Seven Seas Voyager, April
18-May 8, 2009. Celebrity guest lecturers Apollo astronauts
Charles Duke, Gene Cernan and Edgar Mitchell. Meet RSSC
president Mark Conroy. Complimentary evening concert at
Ephesus, Turkey.
For further information on Regent Seven Seas Cruises and
these special voyages and offers, visit
www.RSSC.com
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History Buffs, Star Gazers, Bestselling Novelists and
Broadcasters Headline Cunard Insights This Summer and
Autumn
July 15 - Already considered the finest onboard enrichment
programme in the industry, Cunard Line's intellectual
pedigree will be further established this summer and autumn
with a Cunard Insights line-up featuring history buffs, star
gazers, bestselling authors and broadcast personalities
lecturing aboard Queen Mary 2's celebrated Transatlantic
voyages and aboard QE2's final Crossings. A special
highlight will be the ships' October tandem Crossings and
the inclusion of renowned maritime historians and experts
lecturing aboard QE2 during these historic voyages. Insights
lecturers on these Crossings include:
QE2: October 10, Southampton-New York:
* Bill Miller - Famed author and maritime historian Bill
Miller is considered an international authority on the
subject of ocean liners and cruise ships, having written 70
such books. Among his many other titles, he is the adjunct
curator of the Ocean Liner Council at New York's South
Street Seaport Museum, the assistant editor of Ocean &
Cruise News and created the ship database for the Ellis
Island Museum. He received the National Maritime History
Award in 1994 and the Silver Riband Award in 2005. During
this voyage, he will provide a series of lectures on the
great liners of the 20th Century.
* Ted Scull - A New York-based author, travel writer and
lecturer specializing in maritime subjects, railway history
and New York City, he has been sailing on Cunard passenger
ships since 1964. Among his four presentations, one will pay
special tribute to QE2, the longest serving Cunarder.
* Sir Michael Parker - Longtime organizer for Royal and
National events including Her Majesty The Queen's Silver and
Golden Jubilees, and the anniversaries of VE and VJ Day
QE2: October 16, New York-Southampton:
* Jennie Bond - BBC broadcaster and journalist, and former
Royal Correspondent.
* Stephen Payne - Being appointed as new build project
manager and lead architect for Cunard's Queen Mary 2 was, in
Payne's view, the greatest and most prestigious assignment
that any naval architect could wish for. Among his lectures
on ocean liner history, he will present an illustrated
history of famous Cunarders.
Queen Mary 2: October 10, Southampton-New York:
* Barry Brown - Film historian and former BBC TV producer,
he will present a series of lectures about some of cinema's
most beloved luminaries including Bette Davis, Errol Flynn,
Gene Kelly, Clint Eastwood, David Niven, Ingrid Bergman and
Alfred Hitchcock. (Brown is also sailing on the ship's
October 16 Transatlantic Crossing.)
* Derek Fraser - Modern British historian will speak about
key Prime Ministers in recent history. (Fraser is also
lecturing aboard Queen Mary 2's July 16 and July 22
Crossings.)
Queen Mary 2: October 16, New York-Southampton:
* Lynn Truss - Bestselling author of "Eats, Shoots, Leaves:
The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation" and "Talk to the
Hand: The Utter Bloody Rudeness of the World Today" will
share her witty take on these themes.
* Eric Dolin - Author of eight books, he will lecture on the
history of whaling in America.
* David Whitehouse - Noted author, astronomer and Royal
Astronomical Society Fellow, he is the United Kingdom's most
well known broadcast commentator on science, including
frequent appearances on BBC News and Sky News. He will
present compelling lectures about the sun, the moon, the
universe and space.
"A Transatlantic Crossing is a pinnacle travel experience
for the scholarly Cunard guest who is captivated by the
Golden Age of Ocean Travel," said Carol Marlow, president of
Cunard Line. "At Cunard, we deliver on this promise through
a dynamic and carefully researched program of speakers who
are among the most highly regarded authorities in their
respective fields."
Highlights of upcoming Cunard Insights programs and speakers
on Queen Mary 2's Transatlantic Crossings include:
* Steve Rivellino - July 15 - A leading producer in theater
and former vice president and general manager of New York's
Radio City Music Hall
* John Maxtone-Graham - Aug 13 - Renowned maritime historian
and speaker
* Royal Astronomical Society - August 13 & November 15 - A
new Cunard partnership with RAS brings "star parties" on
deck and compelling lectures on topics including the "Big
Bang" theory and the nature of black holes.
* Margaret Atwood - Aug 27 - Author of 40 books in genres
ranging from fiction and poetry to literary criticism
* A Tribute to Bob Hope featuring Linda Hope - Sept 4 -
Linda Hope, daughter of the iconic entertainer, will share
an intimate look inside the life of her world-famous father.
Her appearance is in advance of the first-ever Bob Hope
Estate Charity Auction.
* Boston Symphony Chamber Players - Sept 4 - BSO artistic
administrator Anthony Fogg joins a distinguished group of
Chamber Players for special performances and musical
insights.
* Joanne Harris - Sept 21 - Bestselling author of "Chocolat"
and her first book geared toward young adults, "Runemarks"
* Giancarlo Impiglia - Oct 4 - Italian painter, sculptor,
art historian and lecturer, whose work can be found onboard
Queen Mary 2
Cunard has long been synonymous with onboard enrichment.
Delving deeply into a variety of compelling and relevant
topics, Cunard Insights introduces guests to stimulating
experts and accomplished visionaries who reflect the line's
heritage of adventure and prestige. Through a series of
lectures, Q&A's, debates, social gatherings, and workshops,
guests connect with personalities who have achieved notable
distinction in areas including history, world affairs,
science, politics, arts and literature. The Insights program
underscores Cunard's longstanding view that onboard
entertainment should afford guests a provocative and
rewarding cerebral experience. For more information and
reservations about Cunard, contact your travel professional,
call 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to
www.cunard.com.
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Celebrity Cruises Dishes Up “Sparkling” Culinary Upgrades
MIAMI, July 14 – Celebrity Cruises is shining the spotlight
on a series of enhancements to its award-winning dining
experience. A core component of “Celebrity’s Star Treatment”
array of fleetwide features and amenities, Celebrity’s
culinary program now includes more than 200 new menu
offerings, a significantly upgraded casual dining area, and
an entirely new brunch offering. According to Celebrity’s
Vice President of Food & Beverage Operations Jacques Van
Staden, a highly accomplished chef and restaurateur who
joined Celebrity just one year ago, the enhancements were
inspired by a combination of extensive studies of guest
surveys, constant monitoring of trends in the food and
beverage industry, and an unwavering eye on innovation.
“Our objective is to set the trend, not follow it,” said Van
Staden. “That’s what makes a great dining experience. You
have to shake things up now and then, and regularly
introduce new and different offerings, along with the items
our guests tell us they can’t live without.”
Celebrity’s new evening menus are so widely varied that
guests on even 14-night itineraries will never be presented
with the same menu twice. Each menu contains expanded
selections in all categories, from appetizers to desserts.
Casual dining “on the rocks”
Celebrity has made significant enhancements to its lido
cafe/casual dining area on every ship, expanding its
culinary selections, modernizing the ambience, and upgrading
signage and equipment.
Celebrity also has upgraded its complimentary coffee to the
European brand, “Seventh,” a blend of Arabica and Robusta
beans, which guests can sip from new, full-sized coffee
mugs.
One of the most innovative aesthetic enhancements in the
lido/casual dining area is the replacement of ice with
chilled river rocks throughout the buffet area. Resting on
the rocks are literally hundreds of new menu items, new
service ware and presentation styles, new action stations
and made-to-order areas, and more destination-influenced and
ethnic cuisine, including Asian, Italian, Mediterranean,
Middle Eastern and English.
Let’s do brunch
Celebrity has replaced its former once-per-cruise midnight
gala buffet with a sumptuous brunch
in the main dining room, complete with the
line’s lauded ice, fruit and vegetable carvings.
“Our guests loved viewing the elaborate creations we
presented at the midnight gala buffet, but very few wanted
to actually eat that late,” said Van Staden. “Now, we still
proudly present our culinary team’s great artistry, but at a
time when our guests can thoroughly enjoy it.”
Once per cruise, guests can indulge in a lavish brunch with
an enormous selection of fresh fruits; made-to-order
smoothies; gourmet cheeses; cold cuts; a wide variety of
salads, sandwiches, meats and seafood; pizzas, paninis and
wraps; sushi and stir-fry selections; eggs of nearly every
style, and delectable desserts ranging from individual,
bite-sized selections to sorbet and ice cream.
New options for late-night noshing
For guests interested in late-night desserts, sandwiches,
specialty coffees or other libations, Celebrity has
introduced an “after-theater” menu in its Cova Cafe venues,
to replace the former “Gourmet Bites” served throughout the
ships on alternating evenings.
Celebrity’s Cova Cafe presents the new late-night menu from
11 pm to closing.
“Our guests enjoyed the service and presentation of ‘Gourmet
Bites,’ but very few actually indulged in them,” said Van
Staden. “The new options in Cova Cafe allow guests who are
interested in late-night dining a light, varied menu,
featuring sandwiches, savories, tartlets, hot brochettes,
canapes, artisan cheeses, fresh fruit, crackers, petit fours
and napoleons.”
For more information, call your travel agent, dial
1-800-437-3111 or visit
www.celebritycruises.com.
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Silversea Announces Success of 2008 World Leaders Symposium
Aboard Silver Whisper; Silver Wind Selected to Host 2009
Symposium
Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- Ultra-luxury cruise operator Silversea
announced the success of an unprecedented educational cruise
program, the 2008 World Leaders Symposium. Held aboard the
all-suite Silver Whisper in March, the 2008 symposium,
titled "Rising Global Powers: China and East Asia," brought
nearly 250 participants to the East Asian cities of Beijing,
Shanghai, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Nagasaki. Onboard guest
speakers included former U.S. President George H.W. Bush;
former U.S. Secretary of Defense William J. Perry; and
leading China scholar and author Jonathan D. Spence.
Participants in the "Rising Global Powers: China and East
Asia" symposium enjoyed a luxurious journey aboard Silver
Whisper and enriching events and tours ashore, including:
-- a visit to the Joint Security Area of the DMZ between
North and South Korea, led by former U.S. Secretary of
Defense William J. Perry;
-- a gala event at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing
with former President George H.W. Bush, Mrs. Bush, and U.S.
Ambassador to China Clark Rundt;
-- panel discussions featuring leaders in the environment,
media, and business in China (including the CEOs of
Intel-China, Boeing-China, and PepsiCo-China);
-- unique excursion options, such as a visit to Beijing's
Olympic Stadium with the architect who designed it; regional
cooking lessons; and a visit to a traditional
Chinese-medicine hospital.
2009 World Leaders Symposium Aboard Silver Wind
Silversea has also been selected to host the 2009
World Leaders Symposium, "The Middle East in the 21st
Century," which will take place next March 19 to April 3
aboard the line's newly refurbished Silver Wind.
Participants will travel to the Persian Gulf states of the
United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait,
Qatar, and Oman with former U.S. Secretary of State James
Baker, former U.S. Secretary of Defense William Perry, and
other leading scholars and historians. This unique symposium
will be produced by leading luxury educational tour operator
High Country Passage.
Aboard Silver Wind, guests will enjoy a generous
all-inclusive shipboard policy, impeccable service from a
courteous and efficient staff, and unparalleled onboard
amenities. The ship's all-suite accommodations include ocean
views and a wide range of features, from walk-in closets to
24-hour room service. All bathrooms have marble tiles,
shower/bathtub combinations, hair dryers, and terrycloth
robes. Of the ship's 147 suites, 111 feature private
verandas. There are seven suite categories, ranging in size
from the 240 square-foot Vista Suites to the 1,314
square-foot Grand Suites.
Silver Wind's public venues include the top-deck Panorama
Lounge, offering spectacular ocean views, and the
two-deck-high Show Lounge. There is a small, well-stocked
library, Internet Center, card room, gym with stair climbers
and treadmills, a pool and two whirlpools, jogging track,
full-service spa, and beauty salon. Three restaurants--The
Restaurant, Saletta, and La Terrazza--take advantage of
Silversea's relationship with the Relais & Chateaux network
of exclusive inns and restaurants, whose chefs contribute
recipes to create distinctive menu selections.
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Celebrity Cruises Dangles ‘Carats’ & Dazzling Collections
MIAMI, July 9 – This year’s most eagerly-awaited cruise ship
– Celebrity Solstice – just added another first to its
series of exceptional offerings: a 10-sided diamond cut for
the first time, and available exclusively on Celebrity
Solstice. Aptly named the Solstice Diamond, the patented
gem’s 86 facets create a visible, distinguishing star
pattern even more sparkling than the familiar 58-facet
brilliant-cut diamond. Sourced from conflict-free stones
mined in Canada, the Solstice Diamond was created by
UK-based Harding Brothers, who will manage the retail shops
onboard. Mounted in hand-created settings and in varying
sizes for rings, pendants and earrings, no two pieces will
be alike. The diamonds will be available in Celebrity
Solstice’s luxurious “Boutique C,” one of 18 shops spanning
three decks and 6,500 square feet onboard the ship.
“Celebrity Solstice’s boutique areas have been designed to
reflect the stylish and authentic ambience our guests will
find throughout the ship,” said Celebrity’s Vice President
of Hotel Operations Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. “Each shop will have
its own distinct look, feel and, in some cases, even aroma.
It will be a phenomenal collection of sights, sounds, styles
and scents.”
In addition to the high-end Boutique C, Celebrity Solstice’s
retail venues include:
The Lawn Club Shop: The refreshing aroma of freshly-cut
grass will welcome guests in Celebrity Solstice’s Lawn Club
Shop, with golf-oriented merchandise, wine-related items,
and a casual, contemporary resort line designed by Bobby
Chan, whose apparel highlights pro shops and lifestyle
specialty stores around the world. The shop also will
feature a “grass”-soled flip-flop sold exclusively on
Celebrity Solstice.
The Showcase: Sparkling glass works from around the world
will be the focus of The Showcase, where guests can purchase
creations such as those found at The Corning Museum of
Glass, whose alliance with Celebrity led to the industry’s
first Hot Glass Show and Studio on Celebrity Solstice. Among
the brands “showcased” are Mats Jonasson, Kosta Boda and
Steuben. The Showcase also will feature limited edition and
retired pieces sold exclusively on Celebrity Solstice.
The Solstice Shop: Celebrity Solstice’s signature store, The
Solstice Shop, will offer a variety of fashion-forward,
private-label apparel, accessories and souvenirs, all
tastefully marked with the ship or brand logo.
Exquisites: The largest jewelry boutique onboard, Exquisites
will present a vast array of necklaces, earrings, rings and
bracelets from new designers, as well as recognized,
world-class brands such as Bellarri and H. Stern. The
boutique also will present canary, pink and blue diamonds,
as well as Tanzanite creations.
The Artisan Store: Guests interested in one-of-a-kind
jewelry and artifacts will find it hard to bypass The
Artisan Store, where they can observe and interact with
resident artists as they string pearls, carve cameos, and
mount gemstones to suit each shopper’s interests and
preferences. The venue also will present special enrichment
lectures and demonstrations.
Pieces of Time: The timeless elegance of fine watches will
be evident in the product line found in Pieces of Time, with
featured brands including Dior, Gucci, H. Stern and Tag
Hauer.
The Collection: Style is in the bag at The Collection, where
guests will find classic and contemporary purses of all
styles, sizes, colors and textures, as well as belts,
scarves, and other accessories.
The Men’s Store: True to its name, The Men’s Store will
feature casual yet sophisticated apparel for men from
Newport Blue and Saltaire, as well as Celebrity’s exclusive
Blue Collection, among other brands.
Moda: Chic women’s fashions ranging from everyday, active
wear to cocktail apparel will highlight Moda, with
selections from leading designers such as Joseph Ribkoff,
Celebrity’s exclusive Blue Collection, and a number of
variations on the classic “little black dress.”
Jasmine: Celebrity Solstice’s Jasmine will focus on
perfumes, cosmeceuticals and other skin care products. The
venue also will offer personalized cosmetics consultations,
and interactive workshops focused on color.
Adagio: The ambience of indulgence and tranquility found in
Adagio will be reflected in its products, ranging from
self-tanning products to scrubs, rubs and body butters. The
venue also will present many of the world’s most popular
fragrances, along with new launches.
Serendipity: Shoppers in Serendipity will have the good
fortune of finding an eclectic mix of merchandise that is
constantly evolving, reflecting the unique character of each
destination on the ship’s itinerary. The selections will
range from ethnic foods to apparel to accessories.
The Sundialer: Fashionable watches and sunglasses are always
timely, and will be the focus of The Sundialer, with hip
selections from a variety of designers, within a fun,
relaxed environment.
Glitz: Trendy costume jewelry from established international
brands as well as up-and-coming designers will be the focus
of Glitz, with selections made of acrylic, crystal, gold
and/or silver.
Sol Y Mar: Sun worshipers will find Sol Y Mar a welcome
venue, with its vast array of designer sunglasses, suntan
lotions, pool cover-ups and other beach apparel, and
paperback books.
Spirits & Such: In a departure from the traditional
shipboard liquor store, Spirits & Such will offer not only
premium liquors, but also bar and kitchen accessories, and
tote bags to ease the process of carrying purchases home.
The venue also will host tastings.
Travel Made Easy: Guests who need additional luggage to take
home all the products they can’t resist onboard will find
relief in Travel Made Easy. There, accessories, sunglasses,
hats and beach blankets are sold, along with luggage, tote
bags, and electronics.
Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale
cruise experiences with highly personalized service,
exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail.
Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand,
California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe,
Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal
and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour
vacations in Alaska, Australia, Canada, Europe and South
America. Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by
Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009,
Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship
in 2011. For more information, call your travel agent, dial
1-800-437-3111 or visit
www.celebritycruises.com.
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Shoreside Spectaculars Set For Seabourn Odyssey's Inaugural
World Cruise
July 9, Miami - The Yachts of Seabourn has announced an
exciting selection of special shoreside experiences planned
to entertain and enlighten the privileged guests aboard
Seabourn Odyssey's inaugural world cruise. The ultra luxury,
450-guest Seabourn Odyssey will launch in June 2009, with
its maiden world cruise visiting 42 ports between Ft.
Lauderdale and Athens in a voyage of 108 days from January 5
to April 24, 2010.
Full World Odyssey guests are invited to stay overnight and
attend a gala Bon Voyage Ball at the St. Regis hotel in Fort
Lauderdale the night before departure. Then there will be
five complimentary events reserved solely for guests who
book the full world cruise. Those guests embarking in Los
Angeles for 92 days will enjoy four of them. An additional
seven ports will feature complimentary Exclusively Seabourn
shoreside experiences to which all guests on board will be
invited, regardless of the length of their voyages.
Where will Odyssey's world cruise shoreside experiences take
you? Read on:
The full world cruise events begin on January 18, 2010, with
a spectacular catamaran cruise from tiny Cabo San Lucas, at
the tip of Baja California, to seek some of the six species
of whales which gather each year in the Sea of Cortez.
Sailing on a comfortable catamaran, guests will pass the
famed natural formation of Los Arcos, the secluded golden
sands of Lover's Beach, the resident colony of sea lions,
and beyond. A naturalist guide will impart details of sea
and land life, and answer questions as guests toast the
starkly beautiful and biologically rich environment of the
Baja Peninsula.
On February 6, full world cruise guests will be greeted by
the haunting tones of a conch-shell salute and fragrant
tiare flower leis as they stroll a candlelit path into a
tropical garden at Papeete, Tahiti. There, under a canopy of
South Pacific stars, they will enjoy an evening of
cocktails, lilting Tahitian music and a sumptuous feast
capped by a rousing performance of traditional Polynesian
song and dance.
In Sydney, Australia on February 24, a private sunset dinner
cruise of scenic Sydney Harbor will end alongside the city's
iconic Opera House, where guests will be escorted inside to
enjoy the featured performance, before returning by the same
boat to Seabourn Odyssey.
Hong Kong will be the site of the next world cruise event on
March 15. The waterside Aberdeen Marina Club will be
transformed into a colorful Chinese bazaar with craftsmen's
booths, traditional fortune-tellers and calligraphers, a
Chinese musical ensemble and a spectacular Lion Dance. In
addition to a buffet of delectable Chinese specialties fit
for an emperor, the kaleidoscopic evening will include
exhibitions of Chinese Opera "face-changing," kung fu
martial arts and acrobatics.
The dramatic climax of the world cruise exclusive events
will unfold in a colorful setting on the island of Phuket on
March 29. Greeted by a Thai long drum troupe, Seabourn
guests will enter a Phuket Thai cultural village to be
regaled by women in traditional Thai costumes, gaily
decorated elephants, and exhibitions of classical Thai
dance, traditional boxing, floral decorations and elaborate
fruit and vegetable carving. There will be demonstrations of
Thai cooking, puppet carving, rubber tapping, and even
chances to ride in an ox-cart or atop a decorated elephant.
The Exclusively Seabourn experiences for all guests on board
will include an afternoon tour of Cultural Cartagena in
Colombia's venerable Caribbean port city, A UNESCO World
Heritage Site; a rousing re-creation of the classic "Aloha
Boat Days" at Honolulu's Royal Hawaiian Hotel; a Maori
cultural discovery experience at Lyttelton (Christchurch),
New Zealand; an introduction to the arts and cultures of
Borneo's 32 diverse ethnic groups at Kota Kinabalu; a visit
to the spectacular Sanctuary of Truth at Pattaya, Thailand
from Bangkok; a spellbinding evening at an oasis near Dubai;
and a sortie from Sharm el Sheikh into a sheltered valley in
the mountainous Sinai desert, for tea and traditional
folkloric music and dance at a Bedouin encampment.
The complimentary shoreside events are part of a generous
menu of benefits included for full world cruise guests,
along with a complimentary pre-cruise Bon Voyage event and
luxury overnight before departing, door-to-door private car
transfers, roundtrip first-class airfare or air credit,
Personal Valet luggage shipping service and shipboard
credits of $2,000 per suite. There will also be special gala
celebrations and gifts for guests on board during the
voyage.
For those not wishing to take the entire World Odyssey,
segments from 16 to 69 days are available, several of which
also offer value-added benefits. For more information or to
make reservation aboard Seabourn Odyssey, please contact
Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit
www.seabourn.com.
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Costa
Deliziosa Keel is Laid
MIAMI, FL, July 9 – Construction of the 92,700-ton Costa
Deliziosa is continuing at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard
in the Province of Venice. Over the last few days, the keel
of the new ship was laid, which includes the first section.
The keel was built in Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard and
towed to Marghera. The Costa Deliziosa will be the 15th
member of the Costa fleet when she comes into service in
Spring 2010 and will be able to carry up to 2,828 guests.
She is the sister ship to the Costa Luminosa.
Fincantieri is currently building three new Costa ships in
its yards. In addition to the Costa Deliziosa, the Italian
ship builder is presently completing the Costa Luminosa and
the 114,500-ton Costa Pacifica. These are respectively the
13th and 14th members of the fleet and are being fitted out
in Marghera and Genova-Sestri Ponente. Both ships will be
delivered in Spring 2009.
Costa’s fleet expansion program includes the introduction of
five new ships by 2012, all built in Italy by Fincantieri
for a total investment worth 2.4 billion euros. In addition
to the Costa Pacifica, Costa Luminosa and Costa Deliziosa,
two sister ships of the Costa Pacifica will enter service in
Spring 2011 and 2012. The Costa Cruises fleet will then be
17-strong and able to carry some 46,400 guests, an increase
of 50% from present capacity.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s number one cruise line.
For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world,
offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine
and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and
relaxation. Five more vessels have been commissioned and
will enter service by 2012. For reservations or more
information, contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or
visit
www.costacruises.com.
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Norwegian
Sky Returns to Miami
MIAMI, July 7 – Norwegian Sky returns to Miami today and
will begin sailing 3- and 4-day Bahamas cruises on Monday,
July 14, 2008. The ship recently underwent a two-month wet
dock in Freeport, Bahamas and now features a casino and
NCL’s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements, the company’s fleet-wide
initiative to further improve the guest experience across
all guest touch points from food and beverage to staterooms.
“NCL pioneered the first Bahamas cruise from Miami more than
41 years ago and last had a ship in the three and four-day
cruise market from Miami in 2003. By reintroducing Norwegian
Sky and positioning the ship in Miami sailing short cruises
to the Bahamas, we are returning to our roots. At the same
time, we are raising the bar by offering a modern Freestyle
Cruising ship that features a variety of accommodations,
including balconies and suites, a multitude of on-board
amenities and a choice of seven restaurants,” said Colin
Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “In addition, we have
outfitted Norwegian Sky with the Freestyle 2.0 enhancements
currently being introduced across our fleet. This, coupled
with the port-intensive itineraries, offers guests seeking a
quick getaway an unmatched cruise experience. There is no
doubt that NCL’s three and four-day Freestyle product on the
industry’s newest ship offers the highest quality and best
value for money in the market.”
Norwegian Sky, the youngest and highest quality ship sailing
these Bahamas cruises, departs Miami on Mondays sailing
4-day Bahamas cruises with full-day stops in Grand Bahama
Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island
in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship sails a weekend getaway
3-day Bahamas itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with
all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to
Miami at 7 a.m. on Monday mornings. Sailings are currently
scheduled through April 17, 2009.
Originally launched in 1999, Norwegian Sky has more than 240
balcony staterooms, a choice of seven different restaurants,
nine bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two
pools, extensive children’s facilities, a sports deck and a
variety of spacious public rooms. Norwegian Sky had been
reflagged and renamed Pride of Aloha in 2004 and sailed
Hawai`i inter-island cruises until May 2008.
Culinary Delights
Upon embarkation, guests are greeted with NCL’s new
Freestyle 2.0 welcome “bubbly” to celebrate their arrival
and are then treated to a ‘Taste of Freestyle,’ a sampling
of culinary creations from the ship’s specialty restaurants.
Norwegian Sky features seven restaurants with all new
Freestyle 2.0 menus offering expanded choices. In addition,
guests will experience lobster in the main restaurant and in
every specialty restaurant. New menu selections include
broiled lobster tail, 32-ounce porterhouse and Alaskan king
crab legs in Cagney’s Steakhouse, an NCL guest favorite; and
in Le Bistro, NCL’s signature French restaurant, guests can
choose from the Côte de Boeuf, a 32-ounce premium gold angus
rib eye steak; Plateau de Fruits de Mar, a cold seafood
platter including mussels, lobster tail, shrimp and raw
oysters on the half shell; and Cardinal of the Seas, braised
lobster tails. In addition, Norwegian Sky also offers
culinary experiences in its two dining rooms: Palace and
Crossings; Il Adagio, a casual Italian trattoria; the Garden
Café and Great Outdoors, where NCL chefs cook fresh,
prepared-to-order food as guests watch.
Guests can enjoy sipping cocktails and dancing the night
away in nine signature bars and lounges including a martini
bar; a sports bar; a champagne bar; two outdoor bars, as
well as Dazzles Bar & Night Club.
Luxurious Accommodations
Norwegian Sky offers four Owner’s Suites complete with a
private balcony with hot tub, living room, dining room,
bedroom, a luxury bath with whirlpool tub and separate
shower along with butler and concierge service to cater to
the guests ever whim. Ten Penthouses feature a sitting area,
private balcony, dining area, separate bedroom with two
lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed and luxury bath
with whirlpool tub and separate shower, along with butler
service and concierge service.
Also on board are NCL’s latest amenities in balcony,
oceanview and inside staterooms including televisions, hair
dryers, safes, mini-bars, as well as the new Bliss
Collection by NCL bedding, Elemis luxury bathroom amenities
and a new room service menu.
With the implementation of Freestyle 2.0, guests staying in
a balcony stateroom or above are treated to a customized
fruit menu, NCL insignia bathrobes and a warm chocolate chip
cookie at turndown on the last night of the cruise. Those
staying in an Owner’s Suite or Penthouse are treated to a
complimentary bottle of champagne upon arrival, a pillow
menu, the Bliss Bed by NCL, customized daily treats, and
exclusive meals in Cagney’s.
Relax & Rejuvenate
The Body Waves Spa is the perfect place to unwind with
unique and exotic spa treatments reflecting the beauty,
spirit and traditions of rejuvenation from around the world.
Guests will find everything from the traditional to the
exotic in spa and salon treatments.
Guests can get their heart pumping at Body Waves Fitness
Center using the state-of-the-art cardiovascular workout
equipment while enjoying a view through floor-to-ceiling
windows. In addition, aerobics, spinning and exercise
classes are available.
Guests can cool off at two large outdoor swimming pools with
sun beds, deck chairs and four hot tubs. Poolside attendants
are ready with cold towels and refreshing Evian mists when
the temperature rises.
Rock Around the Clock
Norwegian Sky features two productions in the Stardust
Theater: “South Rockin’ Nights,” a high energy party
celebrating the sounds of southern rock, R&B and pure rock
‘n roll; and “On Broadway,” a lively production of today’s
current Broadway smash hits including “Wicked,” “Mama Mia,”
and “Hairspray.”
In addition, music by three bands keeps the energy going
into the evening when guests can party until the wee hours
of the morning at two new themed experiences: White Hot
Night, the ultimate dance party at sea set in a wonderland
of white; and Monte Carlo Night, a sizzling casino party
with the glitz and glam reminiscent of the French Riviera.
Get Lucky
The Sky Club Casino features Blackjack, Roulette,
3-Card Poker, Texas Hold ‘em and Craps. For slot lovers,
there are more than 160 of the newest video and traditional
slot machines. The ship also features less traditional games
including Pai-Gow Poker, Pai-Gow Tiles and Mini Baccarat, on
request. Guests can also join NCL’s Casinos at Sea Players
Club – the most rewarding players program at sea
Kids Rule
Norwegian Sky offers Freestyle family fun for children of
all ages, and parents can enjoy the ship with extended Kid’s
Crew hours. The Kids Korner features areas for arts and
crafts, movies and computers. The Zone serves as a hip place
for teens from 13 to 17 to hang out complete with video
games, jukebox, fooseball table and air hockey. By night,
The Zone turns into a teen disco and bar serving
non-alcoholic drinks. Splashes Kid's Pool is just right for
pint-size splashing and playing and features a waterfall and
a children's hot tub nearby. In addition, the popular
Nintendo Wii is available for play in the Atrium.
For more information or to book a sailing on Norwegian Sky,
call your travel professional, go to
www.ncl.com or contact NCL
at 866-234-0292.
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Royal Navy Divers Rise to the Occasion for Carnival Splendor
Naming
London, July 3 --
Multi-talented classical musician, singer and presenter
Myleene Klass will have a spectacular bottle-breaking
“assist” from Royal Navy divers when she performs her
first-ever Ship’s Godmother duties next week by officially
naming the 113,000 ton Carnival Splendor, the biggest
passenger ship to sail from Dover Cruise Port.
Ultra-fit Petty Officer Christian Rumming, 39, assisted by a
Royal Navy dive team led by Lt Ian Richardson, 43, will be
underwater near the bow of the Carnival Splendor when he
will hear a unique radio signal from Myleene Klass, playing
live classical piano music on the ship’s top Lido deck. PO
Rumming will let out some compressed air from his diving
tanks and then personally climb, in wet suit, safety harness
and flippers, a 60ft black marlin ascent rope to reach the
Carnival Splendor’s name on the top of her bow.
PO Rumming will then break with tradition, for instead of
French champagne, he will undertake Myleene’s command and
smash against the hull a bottle of the highly acclaimed 1994
vintage Nyetimber English sparkling wine, chosen by Carnival
to emphasize their selection of Britain to launch their
largest and latest superliner.
Carnival Cruise Lines President and CEO Gerry Cahill said, “Myleene
Klass and the Royal Navy are a unique combination, and we
are very honored that they are joining forces to
successfully name the Carnival Splendor.”
Carnival Splendor offers a comprehensive selection of
restaurants, show-stopping entertainment, four swimming
pools, a 5,500 sq ft children’s play area and Carnival’s
largest ever floating spa featuring a thalassotherapy pool,
thermal suite and 17 treatment rooms.
Immediately after its Naming Ceremony, Carnival Splendor
sets sail for a 3-day preview cruise to Amsterdam, returning
to Dover on July 13, when it will depart on the same day for
its official inaugural 12-day cruise to the Baltic
countries, visiting Copenhagen; Warnemunde (for Berlin);
Helsinki; St Petersburg; Tallinn and Amsterdam.
A video replay of the Carnival Splendor Naming Ceremony can
be viewed beginning July 10 at
www.carnival.com/splendor.
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Azamara Modifies 2008-09 Itineraries to Take Guests Closer
to Thai, Vietnamese Cities
MIAMI, July 3 – Taking
advantage of its ships’ smaller size, Azamara Cruises has
modified its 2008-09 itineraries to take guests closer to
several cities in Thailand and Vietnam. The smaller size of
the deluxe, 694-guest Azamara Quest, which will begin
sailing in the region in December of this year, allows the
vessel to access ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
Azamara recently announced these changes would begin with
its 2009-10 Asia season, but has worked hard to implement
them sooner in order to create the ideal guest experience.
Azamara Quest will sail to new dock locations in Bangkok (Klong
Toey), Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (Ha Long
Bay), Vietnam.
Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand
--Azamara Quest will dock at the Klong Toey Port, located on
the Chao Phraya River, typically less than 30 minutes from
the city center. (This will occur on all pertinent sailings
except the January 17, 2009 sailing, which will still call
at the Laem Chabang port for scheduling reasons.)
--Azamara Quest will be one of the largest ships to dock at
Klong Toey, as other larger ships dock two-and-a-half to
three hours away at the Laem Chabang Port.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
--Azamara Quest will dock at the Saigon Port, approximately
five kilometers from the city center.
--Azamara Quest will transit up the Song River, offering
scenic views along the way.
To ensure daylight passage along the river, Azamara Quest
will arrive at the Saigon Port at 9 a.m. and will depart at
4 p.m.
Other larger ships must dock or tender two-and-a-half hours
away at the Vung Tau anchorage, or dock at the Phu My Port.
Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Vietnam
--Due to depth issues in the channel, Azamara Quest no
longer will dock in Haiphong, Vietnam, but instead dock at
the Cai Lan Port in Ha Long Bay.
--Hanoi is approximately three hours from the port at Ha
Long Bay, the same distance as it was from the previously
scheduled port of Haiphong.
--While arriving at its dockside berth, Azamara Quest will
sail through Ha Long Bay, well-known for the thousands of
limestone islands that dot its landscape.
For guests not wishing to travel to Hanoi, Ha Long Bay will
offer a multitude of activities; the area was designated as
a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2000.
In Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, the port time will be
shortened to allow for the additional transit time up the
rivers into the cities; however, the amount of time guests
have in each city will be the same, since their
ground-transportation time into each city will be reduced.
Azamara also is adding additional time for guests to explore
Hue (Danang) Vietnam, and Sihanoukville, Cambodia. In
Cambodia, Azamara will offer an overnight shore excursion to
Siem Reap, the location of the famous temples of Angkor Wat.
In Northeast Asia, Azamara is replacing its calls to
Fukuoka, Japan, with overnight, in-port stays in Shanghai,
China. Travel enthusiasts are encouraged to visit
www.azamaracruises.com for more information.
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NCL Stars in TLC’s “What Not To Wear” Cruise Special
NCL’s new “It” Girl Norwegian
Gem stars in the first ever cruise episode of TLC’s hit show
“What Not to Wear,” a style makeover show that is one of the
network’s top-rated programs. During the filming that took
place in April 2008, “What Not to Wear” style guru Stacy
London surprised Trenton, New Jersey resident Robin Kearns
during the seven-day Bahamas & Florida sailing and by the
end of the cruise had transformed her into a glamorous
woman. The one-hour cruise special airs on TLC Friday, July
11, 2008 at 9 p.m. EST and will be shown again on Saturday,
April 12 at 2:00 p.m. EST.
“NCL’s new ‘It’ Girl Norwegian Gem is the perfect setting
for such a popular fashion makeover show as TLC’s ‘What Not
to Wear,’” said Colin Veitch, NCL’s president and CEO. “With
the relaxed atmosphere of Freestyle Cruising, our guests
don’t have to worry about a strict dress code while on a
cruise vacation; instead NCL guests can wear what they want
when they want, which viewers will see during this special
cruise episode of ‘What Not to Wear.’”
Kearns, 42, a data manager and single mother to son Shane,
15, was nominated to be featured in the show by her cousin
Heather Kearns-Latini of Trenton, NJ and her best friend
Kimberly Bomberry-Smith of Trenton, NJ. Both accompanied her
on the cruise. Kearns boarded Norwegian Gem without any
knowledge of being featured on the show. On embarkation day,
she was enjoying time with her cousin and best friend in the
ship’s atrium when a video began playing on the two-story
screen which revealed Kearns’ fashion blunders. A stunned
Kearns was then ambushed in the atrium by cameras from “What
Not to Wear” as host Stacy London, flanked by Norwegian
Gem’s officers, strolled down the grand staircase to greet
Kearns with a $5,000 gift card and an offer to be made over
from head-to-toe.
“What I thought was just going to be a vacation ended up
being a life changing experience for me,” said Robin Kearns.
“’What Not to Wear’ helped me to bring out my inner diva and
gave me that extra dose of confidence I needed.”
During the cruise, the “What Not to Wear” team followed
Kearns’ transformation. While visiting Port Canaveral
(Orlando), Florida and Nassau, Bahamas, Kearns went shopping
using style guru London’s famous wardrobe “rules.” When back
on the ship, Kearns completed her make over in the ship’s
spa with special help from make-up artist Carmindy Acosta
and hairstylist Nick Arrojo. The big reveal happened on the
last day of the cruise in the Stardust Theater amongst a
crowd of guests who cheered on Kearns as she went from drab
to fab. To complete her experience, she then revealed her
look to the rest of the ship at dinner that evening in NCL’s
signature Le Bistro restaurant with Norwegian Gem’s captain,
her cousin, best friend and London.
In addition to the atrium, spa and theater, the show also
features Norwegian Gem’s Bliss Ultra Lounge with its four
lane bowling, Courtyard Villa sun deck, Spinnaker Lounge,
Bar Central, Star Bar, pool deck and some of the ships 13
restaurants.
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Reservations Now Open for 130,000-Ton Carnival Dream’s
European, Caribbean Itineraries
Carnival Cruise Lines has
begun accepting reservations today for the previously
announced European and Caribbean itineraries of the new
130,000-ton Carnival Dream, which is scheduled to enter
service in September 2009, introducing a host of innovations
and amenities. The largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed, the
3,646-passenger SuperLiner is set to debut Sept. 21, 2009,
with a 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise from Rome
(Civitavecchia), calling at Naples, Livorno and Venice,
Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Sicily; Monaco; and
Barcelona, Spain. Two additional 12-day Grand Mediterranean
cruises will be offered on Oct. 3 and 15, 2009.
Carnival Dream will then sail on a 16-day trans-Atlantic
crossing from Rome (Civitavecchia) to New York Oct. 27 -
Nov. 12, 2009, with visits to Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca,
and Malaga, Spain; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; and King’s
Wharf, Bermuda.
From New York, Carnival Dream will operate two 8-day
Bahamas/Florida cruises departing Nov. 15 and 23, 2009, with
stops at Port Canaveral, Fla., and Nassau and Freeport, The
Bahamas.
Carnival Dream will then reposition to Port Canaveral, FL,
for year-round 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises
beginning Dec. 5, 2009. On this program, Eastern Caribbean
cruises will call at Nassau; St. Thomas/St. John, U.S.V.I.;
and St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles; while the exotic
Western Caribbean route will include Cozumel; Belize; Costa
Maya; and Isla Roatan.
Representing a new class of “Fun Ship,” Carnival Dream will
offer a variety of unique features and facilities, including
a bold new concept in entertainment called The Piazza, a
stunning indoor/outdoor café and live music venue.
Additionally, the ship will offer the most elaborate
children’s facilities at sea, including expansive play areas
and a huge Carnival WaterWorks aqua park. Other features
include “scenic whirlpools” that extend over the ship’s beam
and a variety of new stateroom categories, including an
innovative two-bathroom configuration that should be
particularly attractive to families. For additional
information and reservations on the Carnival Dream or any
other Carnival “Fun Ship,” contact any travel agent, call
1-800-CARNIVAL or visit
www.carnival.com
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Cruise West Extends Panama Canal & Costa Rica 2008/2009
Cruise Season, Add New Land Tour Options
SEATTLE, July 1, 2008 – As a
result of demand, Cruise West, (www.cruisewest.com) the
leader in small-ship voyages, has announced two additional
spring departures and six themed cruises to its 2008 and
2009 Between Two Seas itinerary. Additionally, one enhanced
and two new land tours are offered as add-ons. Guests may
choose from two holiday cruises, two PENTAX photography
cruises or the option to travel in the company of a Panama
Canal expert on two departures.
The 10-day, 9-night Between Two Seas voyages sail onboard
the 100-guest Pacific Explorer and take in the sights of the
San Blas Islands and a Kuna Indian Village, Portobelo and
traversing the entire Panama Canal. Guests continue to the
remote Emberá Village in the Darién Jungle, Coiba National
Park, Golfo Dulce, Caletas Beach and Manuel Antonio National
Park, known for its prolific wildlife and bird viewing.
Festive Costa Rican and Panamanian holiday activities and
traditional cuisine complement a fun, relaxing Christmas on
the December 20, 2008 departure. Guests will ring in Feliz
Año Nuevo on the December 29, 2008 New Year’s sailing amid
the comforts and amenities of the Pacific Explorer with a
New Year’s bash including a midnight toast and late night
buffet.
Guests on the two PENTAX photography cruises, offered
December 2, 2008 and March 2, 2009, will benefit from
onboard workshops with hands-on instruction by professional
PENTAX photographer, Kerrick James. A Panama Canal guru will
share knowledge about the history and future expansion of
the canal on the December 11, 2008, and April 7, 2009
departures.
Highlighting the stunning flora and fauna native to Panama
and Costa Rica, the two new land tours include a 2-night,
3-day visit to Monteverde Cloud Forest or a 4-night, 5-day
stay in the Tortuguero National Park. Guests will immerse
themselves in the serenity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest
with a guided walk through its butterfly and hummingbird
gardens. Alternatively, they can observe turtles nesting via
a boat or canoe excursions to Tortuguero National Park.
The enhanced tour includes six days and five nights of
accommodations and adventures in Sarapiqui and Arenal, Costa
Rica. Guests visit the world-class Gold Museum, the majestic
La Paz Waterfall Gardens and an Eco-Center tour in the
company of local school children. At the Hacienda Pozo Azul,
guests have the option to participate on the thrilling
canopy zip line tour, a float or river rafting trip or a
chocolate and pineapple plantations tour.
Prices start at $3,799 per person based on double occupancy.
Guests can take advantage of early booking incentives of up
to $175 per person when paying the full amount by September
5, 2008 for departures January 2009 through May 2009 or
receive savings of $350 per person when booking the cruise
and paying in full by March 27, 2009 for departures October
through December 2009.
For additional information or to book a Cruise West cruise,
call (800) 689-1783 or visit
www.cruisewest.com
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MSC Cruises Offers Shipboard Credits for Early Caribbean
Bookings
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Guests
who book a stateroom on select MSC Cruises’ Caribbean
sailings by Aug. 31 are eligible to receive a shipboard
credit of up to $200 per stateroom.
The amount of the shipboard credit will be determined by the
type of stateroom:
-- Interior stateroom -- $25 shipboard credit per person
(maximum $50 per stateroom)
-- Oceanview -- $50 shipboard credit per person (maximum
$100 per stateroom)
-- Balcony or Suite -- $100 shipboard credit per person
(maximum $200 per stateroom)
The shipboard credit offer is
valid on the following sailings:
--MSC Lirica’s 10-night Deep Caribbean itineraries, sailing
roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on March 4, March 24 and
April 13.
--MSC Orchestra’s 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary,
roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale March 7.
Children under the age of 17 sail free on all sailings when
sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults and
guests need only place a deposit of $100 per person. For
more information about MSC Cruises and this special
shipboard credit offer, visit
www.msccruisesusa.com
or a local travel professional.
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Unique Bobsled Shore Excursion Opens in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
MIAMI -- Carnival Corp has
partnered with Rain Forest Trams Ltd., a local bank and
businessmen to develop Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica at Mystic
Mountain, a new eco-friendly attraction in Ocho Rios,
Jamaica. The facility is slated to welcome its first
visitors in a "soft opening" Tuesday, July 1. Grand opening
festivities are set for late July.
Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica was developed by Mystic Mountain
Ltd., a partnership between Rain Forest Trams Ltd and
Jamaican businessmen Horace A. Clarke, and O.J. and Michael
N. Drakulich, Carnival Corp, and the Development Bank of
Jamaica.
The expansive multimillion-dollar tourism attraction
features an exciting and unique Jamaican Bobsled ride
through the lush tropical forest, a chairlift journey over
the verdant countryside, a zip-line canopy adventure through
the treetops, an island culture and heritage center, as well
as mountaintop dining and shopping venues.
Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica at Mystic Mountain covers more
than 100 acres stretching from the Coast Road entrance near
Dunn's River Falls to more than 700 feet above sea level at
the peak of Mystic Mountain. The site supports a diverse
ecosystem of natural springs, tropical foliage, native trees
and a variety of colorful bird species. Mystic Mountain's
tours and rides have been designed to have minimal
environmental impact and physical footprint.
"The Caribbean is vital to the continued growth and success
of the North American cruise industry and Carnival
Corporation is very pleased to support the development of
this spectacular attraction," said Graham Davis, director of
port operations and destination development for Carnival
Corporation & plc. "In addition to serving as an example of
responsible, sustainable tourism development, the Mystic
Mountain complex will have tangible economic benefits,
including creating numerous job opportunities, for the local
community," he added.
Cruise ship guests and visitors can view and explore the
indigenous seaside tropical forest ecosystem via three
exhilarating excursions:
Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica
Custom-designed bobsleds celebrating the Jamaican Olympic
bobsled teams of the 1980s and '90s travel on winding,
plunging stainless steel rails on a 3,280-foot
gravity-driven ride through the forest. The bobsled track
was laid to avoid disturbing the natural landscape, curving
around ancient trees, hugging majestic cliff faces and
limestone outcroppings through narrow chutes of dense
forest. Riders control their rate of descent with an in-sled
handbrake, allowing for either a leisurely tour through the
forest or a pulse-quickening ride. At the end of the ride,
the bobsled slides to a graceful stop and is slowly pulled
back by cable to the top of the mountain, completing the
entire circuit in approximately six minutes.
Rainforest Sky Explorer
Located at the park's Coast Road entrance, this
state-of-the-art chairlift soars above the treetops through
the heart of the tropical seaside forest canopy. The ascent
on Sky Explorer skims the top of the trees, providing
panoramic views of the picturesque coastline and close-up
views of tropical treetops on the way to the centerpiece of
the attraction, the 700-foot peak of Mystic Mountain. The
return ride on Sky Explorer carries riders just below
treetop level, but high above the forest floor to provide a
sense of immersion in tropical wilds.
Rainforest Zip-Line Tranopy Tour
A series of tree-to-tree platforms sends riders gliding
through the coastal forest on this customized zip-line
canopy tour. The guided tour covers virgin areas of the
mountain, flying through the canopy via a zip line along a
series of interconnected tree- and land-based platforms. The
tour ends at the mid-station of the Rainforest Sky Explorer
chairlift, which returns zip-line riders to the park
entrance. At the summit of Mystic Mountain is the Jamaican
Railway Station & Mystic Pavilion. Designed by acclaimed
Jamaican architect Ann Hodges, the traditional three-story
building is a replica of an early 20th-century Jamaican
railway station. The site provides views of Jamaica's north
coast and the hills and valleys of St. Ann. The
9,000-square-foot multilevel rail station features a lookout
tower with spectacular panoramic views of Ocho Rios and the
harbor, a bar and restaurant, retail outlets, and a photo
shop while serving as the boarding point for Bobsled
Jamaica.
Adjacent to the Rail Station, Mystic Pavilion features
displays and memorabilia celebrating Jamaica's culture,
great moments in the country's sporting events and promotion
of environmental awareness and conservation of natural
resources.
Endeavoring to maintain the pristine beauty of the Jamaican
landscape, Mystic Mountain developers paid close attention
to minimizing the environmental impact of the various
attractions during construction. The chairlift foundations
were installed by helicopter to significantly reduce ground
disturbance and eliminate the necessity of building a road
to transport equipment. The latest design in chairlift
towers--the F tower--also was specifically selected to
reduce impact on the forest environment. More than 3,400
feet of bobsled track was hand-carried through the forest
and laid hugging natural limestone cliffs through the
sloping hilly interior.
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Costa Cruises Launches Costa Luminosa & Costa Pacifica
Simultaneously
MIAMI, FL – Costa, Europe’s
Number One Cruise Line and Fincantieri, the world’s leading
cruise ship builder, have set a record by launching two
ships on the same day, an industry first. The Costa Luminosa
and Costa Pacifica, the thirteenth and fourteenth members of
the Costa fleet, will both enter service next year and be
inaugurated simultaneously on June 5, 2009. The 92,700-ton
Costa Luminosa, which will be able to accommodate 2,828
guests, was launched at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera
(Venice) in the presence of the Honorable Renato Brunetta,
the Italian Minister for Public Administration and
Innovation. At the same time, the 114,500-ton Costa
Pacifica, which will be able to accommodate 3,780 guests,
was launched at Fincantieri’s Genoa-Sestri Ponente shipyard.
This simultaneous launch is an unprecedented event in the
history of the cruise industry worldwide—a testimony to the
great entrepreneurial skill of the two companies. Costa
Cruises has invested over 900 million euros in the
construction of the two liners, with a team of 6,000 people
working on both ships. Most of this team is comprised of
Fincantieri’s own employees, while nearly 500 are contracted
suppliers, the majority of which are Italian firms.
The two ceremonies held to mark what is known as “the launch
by floating out,” observed the protocol laid down for such
occasions by seafaring tradition. The yard directors invited
the two Godmothers – one being a lady employed by the Sestri
Ponente shipyard for the Costa Pacifica and the other being
a daughter of an employee in the Marghera shipyard for the
Costa Luminosa – to cut the ribbons and the bottles of
Champagne duly broke against the bows. After the gradual
flooding of the slipways where the two liners have taken
shape over the last few months, the hulls of both vessels
were transferred to the sea for the first time. In both
cases, the launch ended with the welding of a coin to the
base of what used to be the mainmast.
“This simultaneous launch is a concrete example of the
entrepreneurial success of two Italian companies and also a
milestone in the expansion of our fleet, which will have 17
ships by 2012,” commented Costa Cruises S.p.A. group
chairman and ceo Pier Luigi Foschi. “It is also a testimony
to the major contribution our investments make to the
nation’s economy, reflected by the fact that we are regarded
as shining examples of Italian excellence worldwide.” Foschi
continued, “The Costa Luminosa and Costa Pacifica combine
the very best of the Costa product and add yet more
exclusive innovations, setting us even further apart from
other tour operators.”
After the launch, work is set to continue for nearly a year
on the fitting out and interior decoration of both liners.
The Costa Luminosa is due for delivery at the end of April
2009 and the Costa Pacifica at the end of May 2009. Their
naming ceremonies will mark another first for the cruise
industry when the two ships are christened together on June
5, 2009 in Genoa, the city where Costa Cruises is
headquartered. Also for the first time, guests booked to
travel on the maiden cruise of either ship will also be able
to witness the christening ceremony.
During the simultaneous launch ceremonies, the company
announced that the sister ship of the Costa Luminosa, which
is scheduled to enter service in spring 2010, will be named
the Costa Deliziosa. The first section of this liner was
built in the Ancona shipyard and subsequently towed to
Marghera, where her keel will be laid on July 3. Costa’s
fleet expansion program includes the introduction of five
new ships by 2012, all built in Italy by Fincantieri for a
total investment worth 2.4 billion euros. In addition to the
Costa Pacifica, Costa Luminosa and Costa Deliziosa, two
sister ships of the Costa Pacifica will enter service in
spring 2011 and 2012. At that time, the Costa Cruises fleet
will then be 17-strong and able to carry some 46,400 guests,
representing an increase of 50% from present capacity.
Costa Luminosa
The 92,700-ton Costa Luminosa will be able to carry up to
2,828 guests. She will be a unique ship and a trendsetter in
contemporary design, with a perfect blend of service
excellence and stunning, lavish interiors. At the cutting
edge of the fleet, the Costa Luminosa will be Costa Cruises’
most exclusive and innovative cruise ship, made to measure
to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning
customers. The many innovations include a 4-D cinema, a show
lounge with spectacular special effects, a Golf Simulator
featuring 37 virtual golf courses as well as an expansive
outdoor area with a putting green, and a jogging and
rollerblading track. The ship will also feature the cruise
line’s revered Samsara Spa, complete with a Kinesis room.
The Costa Luminosa features 772 veranda cabins out of a
total of 1,130, making it the Costa fleet member with the
highest percentage of private balconies (68%.)
Costa Pacifica
The 114,500-ton Costa Pacifica features a total guest
capacity of 3,780 and is the sister of the current flagships
Costa Concordia and Costa Serena. She will be inspired by
the best music of every era, which will be reflected in her
design theme as well as the complete ambience and
experience, which will take guests on a “musical journey”
around the liner. Along the same lines of the Costa Luminosa,
facilities on board the Costa Pacifica will include the best
of the latest innovations offered by Costa, including the
Samsara Spa (one of the largest spas at sea boasting
accommodations with direct access to the spa, a private
restaurant and exclusive amenities), a Grand Prix race car
driving simulator as well as a central lido extending over
two decks and featuring a retractable glass magrodome,
complete with a large video screen, allowing guests to enjoy
“dive in” movies.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s number one cruise line.
For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world,
offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine
and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and
relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million guests chose to cruise
with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The
company’s 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive
characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag
and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean,
Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South
America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the
Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and
will enter service by 2012. For reservations or more
information, contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or
visit
www.costacruises.com.
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