News from the world of cruising ~
September 24-30, 2001
For schedule changes & departure information on a specific cruise line or port of call, please select Latest Updates by Cruise Line
Public Announcement--Worldwide Travel Caution
Coast Guard Port Updates
Back to Cruise News Weekly Index & Archive
Disney Cruise Line Sunshine Sailaway Packages... The Perfect Cure For The Winter Blues
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 28 -- Disney Cruise Line guests can experience any of the line's tropical cruise itineraries, plus the new Walt Disney World 100 Years of Magic celebration, at special seasonal rates thanks to a new Sunshine Sailaway offer.
Valid for most three-, four- and seven-night cruise vacations and seven- night land/sea packages between Jan. 3, 2002, and March 21, 2002, Disney's Sunshine Sailaway offers a perfect escape from the winter blues.
Seven-night cruise and seven-night land/sea packages start at $799. Rates for guests, ages 3-12, traveling as a third or fourth passenger in a stateroom start at $399. Disney's eastern Caribbean cruise vacations feature magical entertainment, clever programming and unique dining experiences, combined with calls at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay. Land/sea packages combine the fun and excitement of the Walt Disney World 100 Years of Magic celebration with a three- or four-night Disney Cruise Line voyage to the Bahamas and Castaway Cay.
Three and four-night cruise vacations start at $419 and $519, respectively. Rates for guests, ages 3-12, traveling as a third or fourth passenger in a stateroom start at $199 and $299. Each Disney Cruise Line three- and four-night sailing calls on Nassau and Castaway Cay, with alternating four-night cruises spending a day at sea or a call at Grand Bahama island.
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability. Government taxes and fees are not included. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a Disney Cruise Line vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500.
Back to the top of the news list
CHICAGO--Sept. 28, 2001--Fitch has affirmed the ratings of Carnival Corp. and revised the Rating Outlook to Negative from Stable following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Fitch currently rates CCL's senior debt 'A'. The affirmation also applies to the commercial paper program of CCL currently rated 'F1'. The 'BBB+'/'F2' ratings for P&O Princess Cruises PLC are affirmed and its Rating Outlook remains Negative.
Fitch expects the terrorist attacks, combined with existing soft conditions facing the industry, to have a negative impact on the cruise industry during the near term. Yields, especially in the luxury segment, were already under pressure as a result of the slowing economy and significant increases in capacity in the industry. As a result of the attacks, Fitch expects further severe declines in the near term in both price and occupancy resulting in a dramatic yield contraction. The drop in yields comes at a time when the industry is expected to take on substantial new capacity. Ten new vessels are scheduled to be delivered to the top three industry participants in the next 15 months. Contracts for the new vessels cannot be cancelled and delivery of new ships cannot be unilaterally deferred.
It is estimated that more than half of all cruise passengers use air travel to join cruises. While CCL is less reliant on air travel than other major industry competitors, a return of consumer confidence in flying and taking cruise vacations is difficult to predict at this time. While fourth quarter 2001 bookings are already known, and are subject to standard cancellation fees, Fitch expects meaningful declines in profitability for the quarter due to cancellations. In addition, first quarter 2002 net bookings (booking less cancellations) could drop substantially as well.
Due to the fixed cost structure inherent in their operations, it will be difficult for operators to prevent substantial declines in operating cash flow in the near term. Individual rating action will depend upon, among other factors, the company's ability to reduce its operating leverage to address potentially lower demand over the intermediate term, prevent further declines in operating cash flow, maintain access to external sources of funds, and fund its ship building programs.
Cruise operators have the ability to partially mitigate the adverse effects of the attacks. Operators have the flexibility to change embarkation and debarkation points to ports perceived to be more secure, change cruise itineraries in regard to destination and length of cruise, and if necessary, 'moth ball' certain ships until demand returns to more normal levels. Fitch will be considering these factors as well as various macroeconomic and industry fundamentals in the near future.
CCL will embark upon an aggressive fleet expansion program over the next several years, which consists of 15 new vessels at an investment of approximately $6.6 billion. Starting in December 2001, CCL will take delivery of the first of four ships scheduled to begin operating in 2002. However, the remaining ship deliveries are more back-end loaded with three ships scheduled to enter service from August through December. Fitch had expected a majority of the fleet program to be funded primarily through internally generated funds with periodic borrowings. Fitch will focus on CCL's cash flow and its ability to internally fund capital expenditures. In addition to the company's projected capacity increases, CCL's major competitors, Royal Caribbean and Princess, are also engaged in aggressive expansion. However, due to the recent bankruptcy filing of Renaissance Cruises and the possibility that smaller cruise operators already in financial distress could face further financial pressure, industry capacity could be reduced over the near term.
CCL's financial position was relatively solid at the time of the terrorist attacks with comparatively low leverage (net debt/EBITDA of approximately one time) and high EBITDA margins (32.5%) for the trailing 12 months ended Aug. 31, 2001. CCL's strong liquidity position includes $1.2 billion cash and short-term investments and full availability under its $1.625 billion revolving credit facilities at Aug. 31, 2001. Debt maturities include $160 million in 2001 and $22 million in 2002.
P&O Princess Cruises PLC is currently rated `BBB+'/`F2' and remains on Rating Outlook Negative. P&O Princess shares comparable operational attributes as CCL in terms of exposure to the U.S. markets (P&O H101 profit split was 77% U.S., 23% European), the degree of reliance on plane journeys to start certain cruises, and the benefit of certain non-cancelable deposit receipts for fourth quarter 2001 bookings. Given P&O Cruises' exposure to sector-wide competition and pressure on yields, combined with this company's new deliveries' potential burden on its fiscal year 2002 and fiscal year 2003 results under this scenario, Fitch had already placed its `BBB+' rating on Rating Outlook Negative (July 2001). Recently, P&O Cruises announced some changes to its 2002 itinerary to cater for hesitance by its customer base to start their holiday by flying and has therefore designated certain ships to round trips or shorter cruises from more convenient locations. P&O Princess has also taken one (aging) ship out of circulation for six months, with minimum impact on profit.
Fitch will continue to closely monitor developments in the industry and will take further rating action as necessary. Source: Fitch
Back to the top of the news list
SEATTLE, Sept. 28 -- Holland America Line today announced changes to its cruise itineraries for 2002, plus special booking incentives and promotions for travelers.
The changes affect six ships: ms Amsterdam, ms Prinsendam, ms Rotterdam, ms Noordam, ms Ryndam and ms Zaandam. There are no changes to the published 2002 itineraries for the ms Westerdam, ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam, ms Volendam and the new ms Zuiderdam, which enters service in November 2002.
"Holland America Line passionately believes that people everywhere should be free to travel without undue concern and we want to make it easier for our customers to exercise that freedom," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales.
"We recognize that some people may be hesitant to travel overseas or to take long flights now," he said, citing a Sept. 18 online survey by NFO Plog Research's Travel Confidence Index, showing that of those who had planned an air trip to be taken after Sept. 11, 55 percent will take the trip, 7 percent will postpone and 13 percent will cancel, drive or substitute some other plan (the remainder had no trip planned.)
"We are addressing that change in travel preference by re-deploying some of our ships to feature more attractive cruise itineraries, featuring major, popular ports of call in North America," said Giersdorf.
In addition, the Tourism Industry Association of America's Domestic Travel Report shows that 74 percent of all travel in the United States is by highway, including 44 percent of business travel and 80 percent of leisure travel. Air travel accounts for only 41 percent of business travel and just 13 percent of leisure travel.
"We're addressing this preference as well by adding two more U.S. home ports -- Seattle and Port Canaveral, which will allow us to increase the number of cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, two of the most popular destinations for North Americans," said Giersdorf.
"We're also adding a ship to the Southern California market, sailing from San Diego on week-long cruises to Mexico. In 2002, Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports," said Giersdorf. "Wherever possible, we are avoiding long flights, as well as expensive and complicated open-jaw air travel arrangements. We're also looking into increasing motorcoach and rail travel options to and from our home ports."
"These changes demonstrate our firm commitment to maintaining the security, safety and comfort of our guests," he said. "We also are strongly committed to continuing -- and increasing -- the support of our travel agent associates by backing up our new programs with publicity, promotions, booking incentives and a major marketing campaign."
The re-deployment plan features the following major changes for 2002:
The flagship Amsterdam's 100-day Grand World Voyage Jan. 20 - April 30 has been re-routed to visit South Africa and South America in place of the Middle East, Holy Land and Mediterranean. Following the world voyage, instead of its Europe program, the Amsterdam will sail on a new 18-day Panama Canal cruise from New York/Ft. Lauderdale to Seattle, where it will offer 19 new seven-day Alaska cruises. After the Alaska season, the Amsterdam will sail a new 21-day transcanal cruise to Ft. Lauderdale, where it will offer six new 10-day Seafarer/Wayfarer Southern Caribbean cruises and two new seven-day holiday cruises.
After delivery to Holland America Line on April 22, the new Prinsendam, will operate its published schedule, including its June 3 gala 10-day transatlantic maiden cruise from New York, plus 13- and 14-day Northern Europe and Baltic cruises through Sept. 3, 2002. The ship then will offer a new 22-day West Africa cruise from Lisbon to Cape Town (Sept. 3 - 25), followed by a new 22-day cruise from Cape Town to Mumbai (Sept. 25 - Oct. 17) in place of two 13-day Mediterranean cruises and an 18-day Mediterranean/Arabia cruise. From Mumbai, the ship will resume its original schedule of 16- and 18-day Southeast Asia and Australia/New Zealand cruises.
Changes to the flagship Rotterdam's itineraries affect the ship's spring and fall 10-day Panama Canal cruises. Instead of 10 spring Canal transits between Ft. Lauderdale and Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica, the ship now will sail on two 10-day Canal transits departing Jan. 6 and 16 and eight new 10-day roundtrip Sunfarer cruises departing Ft. Lauderdale Jan. 26 - April 6 that will feature a visit to the Canal. In the fall, the ship will offer a 12/10-day cruise from New York/Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale (Oct. 29 - Nov. 10) and four new 10-day roundtrip Sunfarer cruises departing Ft. Lauderdale Nov. 10 - Dec. 10. The ship's spring-fall schedule of Canada/New England and transatlantic cruises remains unchanged.
The Noordam's new program of Europe cruises eliminates all cruises visiting Eastern Mediterranean ports of call, replacing those cruises with Western Mediterranean itineraries. After a 12-day transatlantic cruise April 4 from Tampa to Lisbon, the Noordam will offer its 10-day Lisbon-Rome cruise and two new 10-day cruises between Rome and Barcelona, followed by a 14-day European Capitals cruise from Rome to Copenhagen, nine 10-day Baltic cruises from Copenhagen and a 14-day European Capitals cruise from Copenhagen to Rome. In the fall, the Noordam replaces two 10-day Eastern Mediterranean cruises departing Sept. 21 and Oct. 1 with two new 10-day cruises between Rome and Barcelona. The 10-day Eastern Mediterranean cruise on Oct. 31 has been replaced by a new 10-day roundtrip Western Mediterranean cruise from Rome. After a Rome-Ft. Lauderdale charter voyage, the Noordam will complete the year sailing from Ft. Lauderdale on scheduled nine-day Sunfarer cruises Dec. 4 and 13 and a new 14/16-day holiday cruise to Ft. Lauderdale or Mobile.
The Ryndam will become Holland America Line's second ship to cruise Mexico, offering a series of new seven-day cruises featuring the Sea of Cortez and Mexican Riviera, sailing roundtrip from San Diego in the fall. The ship will sail on its published schedule of South America, 10-day Mexico, and Alaska cruises until October, when it will sail on the following new cruises: a three-day Pacific Coast cruise Oct. 6 from Vancouver to San Diego; a 10-day Mexico cruise roundtrip from San Diego on Oct. 9; seven-day Mexico cruises departing Oct. 19-Dec. 14; and two seven-day holiday cruises departing San Diego Dec. 21 and 28.
The Zaandam will switch to a new program of seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from its new home port of Port Canaveral in the fall, replacing a series of 10-day Southern Caribbean cruises from Ft. Lauderdale. From Port Canaveral, the ship will sail on 6 cruises, departing on Saturdays, Nov. 9 - Dec. 14, followed by two new seven-day holiday cruises departing Dec. 21 and 28. The rest of the ship's schedule for 2002 will remain as published: 10-day Southern Caribbean cruises, two transcanals between Ft. Lauderdale or Port Canaveral and Seattle, 1/3/4-day Pacific Northwest cruises from Seattle, and seven-day Alaska cruises.
"With these changes to Holland America's cruises, our guests will find a wide range of cruise choices -- from three to 100 days -- offering an exceptional cruise vacation at prices to fit every budget. And, there will be no compromise on providing the premium cruise experience for which we are known," said Giersdorf.
"In addition, we offer one of the best cancellation protection plans in the industry, giving guests peace of mind should their vacation plans change. And, our convenient Home City Air program not only provides air transportation at a cost-conscious price, but also guarantees assistance from Holland America with travel arrangements."
In 2002, Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports.
Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure.
For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. SOURCE: Holland America Line
Back to the top of the news list
SEATTLE, Sept. 28 -- Holland America will bring its newest flagship, the ms Amsterdam, home for Alaska cruises from Seattle next summer. Beginning in May 2002, the 1,380-passenger Amsterdam will sail 19 weekly roundtrip cruises to Alaska.
"As we address the global travel climate and the expectation that travelers will focus domestically, Holland America decided to bring its flagship home,'' said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "It's exciting to showcase our newest vessel in our hometown. We expect strong support as the Pacific Northwest is among our top 10 markets for guests who sail with us.
"The ms Amsterdam is a spectacular vessel and will have no equal in the Alaska market. No other cruise offering from Seattle will come close to matching the quality of experience provided by ms Amsterdam and the employees of Holland America.''
Sailing Saturdays from May 18 to Sept. 21, 2002, the Amsterdam will visit Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Ketchikan, a service call to Victoria, B.C., and then return to Seattle. The ship's faster speed of up to 22.5 knots permits her to complete a week-long itinerary from Seattle.
The Amsterdam joins the youngest Alaska cruise ship fleet, the 1,266-passenger sister ships ms Ryndam, ms Statendam, and ms Veendam; and the 1,440-passenger sisters ms Volendam and ms Zaandam -- already heading to Alaska for Holland America Line-Westours, which continues a 54-year tradition of travel to Alaska. In addition to the new Seattle itinerary, two other popular seven-day cruise variations are offered.
The Glacier Bay Inside Passage itinerary sails roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C., and features Southeast Alaska's most popular ports -- Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway -- and a day sailing the wonders of Glacier Bay. Glacier Discovery cruises sail between Vancouver and Seward to explore the Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska, including Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in Alaska. Next year, Holland America offers 115 departures to Alaska.
Ships Highlight Native Heritage
Holland America's Alaska sailings provide cruise guests with an in-depth look at Alaskan native heritage, culture and crafts. The ``Artists in Residence Program'' features an Alaskan native on board to demonstrate a traditional craft such as ivory or soapstone carving or mask making. The ``Huna Interpretive Program'' provides rare cultural insight into spectacular Glacier Bay through the eyes of a Huna Totem member, a tribe that has called the area home for centuries. In addition, Holland America features a full-time naturalist aboard each Alaska cruise to discuss and point out wildlife and key scenery.
Prices for 7-day Amsterdam Alaska cruises start at $1,299 per person, double occupancy, including port charges. Government taxes are extra.
Newest Ship in HAL Fleet
Holland America's newest ship, the 61,000-ton Amsterdam features a passenger space ratio of 45, one of the highest in the premium market. Guests enjoy public areas appointed with more than US$2 million in artwork, including three restaurants offering dining choices from casual to intimate, six lounges, a library, full kids room, card room, disco, duty-free shops, two pools, spa and exercise area, Internet center, coffee bar, concierge lounge for suites, and movie theater.
Holland America excels in service, amenities and special programs. Its ships have more staff members per guest than any other major cruise line, and its popular ``tipping not required'' policy ensures consistent, attentive service. A wide range of shore excursions is offered, including an exclusive ``Just for Kids'' program, with high appeal to the growing numbers of families choosing to cruise Alaska for their summer vacation.
About Holland America Line
Holland America Line has 11 luxury ships sailing to more than 280 ports of call and scenic cruising destinations on all seven continents, including Antarctica. The company is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Costa Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Together, these member lines share a commitment to quality and value, offering cruise vacations that appeal to the widest range of lifestyles and budgets and sail to some of the world's most exciting destinations.
In 2002, Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports.
Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure.
Holland America Line is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the world in the 2001 "Travel & Leisure'' magazine "World's Best'' Awards and the 2000 "Conde Nast Traveler'' Readers' Choice Awards. The company also has won its ninth consecutive "Best Overall Cruise Value'' award from the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society (WOCLS).
For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. SOURCE: Holland America Line
Back to the top of the news list
Selected Alaska Cruises Available From Just $599 Per Person
SEATTLE, Sept. 28 -- Holland America Line announces the debut of its new 1,380-passenger flagship ms Amsterdam in Alaska for the 2002 season, sailing on seven-day roundtrip cruises from Seattle. Holland America Line is re-deploying the Amsterdam to Alaska in place of its previously scheduled program of Europe cruises.
"We took this major step to re-deploy the Amsterdam because we recognize that while people still want to take their well-earned holidays, given today's travel climate some may be hesitant about taking long flights overseas and would prefer to vacation closer to home. Not only is Alaska one of the most popular destinations for North Americans, but our new home port of Seattle is easily accessible by a short domestic flight, train, motorcoach or private vehicle from major population areas in the Northwest and West,'' said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales.
"Holland America is the leader in travel to Alaska and Canada's Yukon with 54 years of experience in the 'Great Land,''' said Giersdorf. "We are committed to providing the very best Alaska cruise experience, combining superior itineraries with exceptional value and an appeal for all ages. In addition, most of our cruises visit Glacier Bay National Park, one of the crown jewels of the Great Land, which captures the essence of Alaska's wilderness.''
As an added incentive to visit Alaska in 2002, Holland America Line also is rewarding travelers who book a cruise by Feb. 28, 2002, with 25 percent Early Booking Discount. Selected Alaska cruises are available from just $599 [CAN$ 899] per person, double occupancy. The company recommends that travelers book early to ensure their choice of departure date and stateroom accommodations.
Six Ships, Three Scenic Itineraries
With the addition of the Amsterdam to the Alaska program, Holland America offers a total of 115 premium cruises to the Last Frontier on six of the company's luxury ships. The Amsterdam will be joined by the 1,440-passenger sister ships ms Volendam and ms Zaandam and the 1,266-passenger sister ships ms Ryndam, ms Statendam and ms Veendam.
Sailing on 19 cruises from Seattle, departing on Saturdays May 18 - Sept. 21, 2002, the Amsterdam will visit Juneau, giant Hubbard Glacier, Sitka and Ketchikan, with a service call in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle. The ship's faster speed of up to 22.5 knots permits the weeklong itinerary from Seattle. With Early Booking savings of 25 percent, double-occupancy cruise-only fares start at $1,299 per person, including port charges. Governmental fees are additional.
Holland America offers 60 departures from Vancouver May 6 - Sept. 22 on its classic, seven-day, round-trip Glacier Bay Inside Passage itinerary. These cruises highlight Southeast Alaska's most popular ports -- Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan -- and spend a full day sailing amidst the scenic wonders of Glacier Bay.
Guests may choose from three luxurious ships: the Zaandam (Saturday departures), Volendam (Monday) and Ryndam (Thursday) on regular weekly sailings throughout the season, plus late-season sailings on the Veendam and Statendam. With Early Booking savings of 25 percent, double-occupancy cruise-only fares start at $1,249 [CAN $1,814] per person, including port charges. Governmental fees are additional. Selected sailings are currently available from just $699 [CAN $1,059] per person.
The 36 Glacier Discovery seven-day cruises between Vancouver and Seward departing May 12 - Sept. 15 feature the Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska aboard the Statendam and Veendam, with Sunday departures.
On one northbound itinerary, the ships visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka and offer scenic cruising past massive Hubbard Glacier in Wrangell - St. Elias National Park. The other northbound itinerary visits Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka, then sails into Glacier Bay and College Fjord. Southbound cruises feature the reverse itinerary.
With Early Booking savings of 25 percent, double-occupancy cruise-only fares start at $1,149 [CAN $1,658] per person, including port charges. Governmental fees are additional. Selected sailings are currently available from just $599 [CAN $899] per person.
Two Exclusive On-Board Programs Highlight Native Heritage
All of Holland America's Alaska sailings offer two exclusive programs that provide cruise guests with an in-depth look at Alaskan native heritage, culture and crafts. The "Artists in Residence Program'' features an Alaskan native on board demonstrating a traditional craft such as ivory or soapstone carving, basket weaving, or mask making.
The "Huna Interpretive Program'' provides rare cultural insight into Southeast Alaska's spectacular Glacier Bay through the eyes of a Huna Totem member, a tribe that has called the area home for centuries. A National Park Service ranger also joins each sailing in Glacier Bay.
In addition, Holland America features a full-time naturalist aboard every Alaska cruise to discuss and point out wildlife and key scenery throughout the Inside Passage.
New Additions Enhance 2002 Cruisetour Program
The leader in Alaska travel, Holland America Tours offers 31 exciting cruisetour options for the Alaska 2002 season, including 12 Alaska & Klondike Explorer itineraries, 17 Denali Explorer itineraries and two Deluxe Escorted options. All cruisetours include a three-, four- or seven-night Holland America Line premium cruise.
New features for 2002 include:
-- Double Denali - Eight cruisetours offer two nights at Denali National
Park and include the Tundra Wildlife Search tour into the park,
ensuring greater wildlife viewing opportunities, plus a full day at
leisure to experience the vast wilderness with optional activities
ranging from hikes to raft trips to flightseeing.
-- Grand Alaska Journeys - Ten comprehensive cruisetours offer the Great
Land in depth, from Mount McKinley, to the "River of Gold" into
Canada's fabled Yukon Territory and then cruising through the serene
Inside Passage.
-- Deluxe Escorted CruiseTours - Two fully escorted tours that include
most meals and provide the personal service of a tour guide for the
entire land portion to take care of every guest's needs.
With Early Booking savings of 33 percent, double-occupancy 2002 cruisetour fares start at $1,799 [CAN $2,699] per person, including port charges. Governmental fees are additional.
Largest Five-Star Fleet in Alaska
With the largest five-star fleet in Alaska, Holland America excels in service, amenities and special programs. Its ships have more staff members per guest than any other major cruise line, and its popular ``tipping not required'' policy ensures consistent, attentive service.
Spacious staterooms average 25 percent larger and verandahs twice as large as those on other lines' ships. Menus, highlighted by Alaska specialties like salmon, halibut and King crab, are among the most extensive at sea. Dining choices include formal elegance, casual fare and 24-hour room service.
A wide range of shore excursions is offered, including an exclusive "Just for Kids'' program, with high appeal to the growing numbers of families choosing to cruise Alaska for their summer vacation. Onboard, guests may participate in the "Passport to Fitness'' activity program and take advantage of a complete fitness center.
In 2002 Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports.
Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure. SOURCE: Holland America Line
Back to the top of the news list
SEATTLE, Sept. 28 -- The introduction of seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from the new home port of Port Canaveral and new 10-day Caribbean cruises on board the sister flagships Rotterdam and Amsterdam sailing roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale lead the highlights of Holland America Line's newly revised program of 2002 Caribbean cruises.
Additional highlights include the fall debut of the new 1,848-passenger ms Zuiderdam, a 12/14-day cruise on board the flagship ms Rotterdam to the Caribbean and Venezuela's Orinoco River and the ms Veendam's new seven-day fall sailings from Tampa.
"Holland America is expanding its already terrific program of Caribbean cruises for 2002 by adding eight seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings aboard the ms Zaandam from Port Canaveral, a new home port for the company. We're also re-deploying our flagship ms Rotterdam on 13 roundtrip 10-day cruises from Ft. Lauderdale featuring a visit to the Panama Canal, in place of an equal number of 10-day transcanal cruises. Our sister flagship Amsterdam also is being re-deployed to feature a new series of 10-day Southern Caribbean cruises from Ft. Lauderdale,'' said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales.
"We have revised our published program of Caribbean cruises because we recognize that in the current travel climate some people may prefer to vacation closer to the U.S. and avoid long flights to foreign countries. These changes mean that nine of our 11 ships will be sailing roundtrip on 150 cruises from three of the most popular and accessible North American ports: Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa and Port Canaveral. All of these home ports are easily accessible by shorter domestic flights, or ground transportation, including motorcoach, train or personal vehicle. We're also offering more roundtrip sailings, to avoid expensive and complicated open-jaw air arrangements,'' said Giersdorf.
"Holland America provides its customers with a broad range of exciting vacation choices appealing to every price range, plus a greater number of convenient sailings from the continental U.S. Whether the traveler is a first-time cruiser or a seasoned voyager, they'll find a Holland America Line Caribbean cruise to fulfill their wish for a safe and relaxing vacation,'' he said.
Most Caribbean cruises include a visit to Half Moon Cay, the company's private island paradise and a role model visitor destination providing an enhanced Bahamian experience while maintaining a positive balance with the natural environment. Guests may sail, swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters, bask on white sand beaches, have a beachside massage, and then enjoy an array of traditional barbecue fare. The island also offers a fun time for kids, too, with a variety of age-appropriate activities through the company's Club HAL children's program.
New Zaandam Cruises from Pt. Canaveral
The 1,440-passenger ms Zaandam will sail its published schedule of 10 alternating 10-day Southern Caribbean Seafarer/Wayfarer cruises departing Ft. Lauderdale Jan. 3 - April 3.
Holland America's Seafarer cruises visit Kralendijk, Bonaire; El Guamache on Venezuela's Isla de Margarita (Angel Falls tour option); Castries/Soufriere, St. Lucia; Roseau/Cabrits, Dominica; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. (St. John tour option); and Half Moon Cay. Wayfarer cruises visit Willemstad, Curacao; La Guaira, Venezuela (Angel Falls tour option); Port of Spain, Trinidad; Fort-de-France, Martinique; St. Thomas; and Half Moon Cay.
The Zaandam then sails on a spring transcanal cruise to Vancouver, where the ship will sail three- and four-day Pacific Northwest cruises, seven-day Alaska cruises, then three- and four-day Pacific Northwest cruises before returning to its new Port Canaveral home port via a fall transcanal cruise.
The Zaandam will sail from Port Canaveral on six new fall seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 9 - Dec. 14, in place of 10-day Southern Caribbean cruises and holiday cruises from Ft. Lauderdale. The cruises visit Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas; and Half Moon Cay. The ship finishes the year with two festive holiday cruises departing Dec. 21 and 28.
Rotterdam Offers New 10-day Roundtrip Sunfarer Cruises from Ft. Lauderdale
Changes to the 1,316-passenger flagship Rotterdam's itineraries affect the ship's winter/spring and fall 10-day trans-Panama Canal cruises between Ft. Lauderdale and Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. Instead of 10 winter/spring transcanals, the ship will sail on two 10-day Canal transits departing Jan. 6 and 16 and eight new 10-day roundtrip Sunfarer cruises departing Ft. Lauderdale Jan. 26 - April 6. The Sunfarer cruises feature Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; a visit to the Panama Canal/Gatun Lake; Cartagena, Colombia; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Half Moon Cay.
Following its published schedule of spring-fall Canada/New England and transatlantic cruises, in the fall the Rotterdam will offer a 12/10-day Sunfarer cruise from New York/Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale (Oct. 29 - Nov. 10) and four new 10-day roundtrip Sunfarer cruises departing Ft. Lauderdale Nov. 10 - Dec. 10.
Amsterdam Sails New Program of 10-Day Southern Caribbean Cruises
Following the 2002 Grand World Voyage, a new 18-day Panama Canal cruise from New York/Ft. Lauderdale to Seattle, and a season of new seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle, the 1,380-passenger Amsterdam will sail a new 21-day fall transcanal cruise to Ft. Lauderdale.
From Ft. Lauderdale it will offer six new alternating 10-day Wayfarer/Seafarer Southern Caribbean cruises (itineraries above) departing Oct. 22 - Dec. 11.
Flagship Rotterdam Cruises the Southern Caribbean and Orinoco River
The flagship Rotterdam will sail as scheduled from Ft. Lauderdale April 16 on a new 12/14-day to the Southern Caribbean and Venezuela's Orinoco River, returning to Ft. Lauderdale or Norfolk. The cruise visits Fort-de-France, Martinique; Castries and Soufriere, St. Lucia; Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela (Angel Falls, Ciudad Bolivar tour options); St. Thomas; and Half Moon Cay. The cruise features scenic cruising on the Orinoco, one of the longest rivers in the world, affording views of pristine rain forests punctuated by occasional stilt villages and perhaps a glimpse of the rare freshwater pink dolphin.
New Zuiderdam Debuts in the Eastern Caribbean
The new 85,000-ton, 1,848-passenger Zuiderdam, the first of Holland America's Vista series of new generation ships, is scheduled for delivery on Sept. 30, 2002. Following introductory events, the Zuiderdam departs Nov. 2 on its maiden cruise to the Eastern Caribbean, visiting Half Moon Cay; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. (St. John tour option); and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship will sail this itinerary, plus two holiday cruises, until its transcanal cruise in the spring of 2003 for a summer season of seven-day Alaska cruises.
Tampa to be Veendam's New Homeport for Fall Western Caribbean Cruises
The 1,266-passenger Veendam will sail its published program of seven-day Western Caribbean cruises from its new homeport of Tampa, Fla., beginning in the fall of 2002. Saturday departures are scheduled Oct. 26 - Dec. 14. The Veendam visit George Town, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Cozumel, Mexico.
The Veendam also sails winter/spring Eastern Caribbean cruises from Ft. Lauderdale October 2001 - March 2002, visiting Half Moon Cay; San Juan, P.R.; St. Thomas; and Nassau.
Holland America Line's 2002 Caribbean cruise program also features:
- The 1,214-passenger Noordam sailing on two new nine-day Southern Caribbean Sunfarer cruises, departing from Ft. Lauderdale Dec. 4 and 13 and featuring the opportunity to view the Panama Canal in operation on an optional tour. The Noordam also continues its 14-day Southern Caribbean cruises from Tampa, featuring social hosts on seven departures Jan. 6 - March 31, 2002.
- The 1,440-passenger Volendam, alternating with sister ship Zaandam, on 10-day Seafarer and Wayfarer cruises to the deep Southern Caribbean, with departures from Ft. Lauderdale Jan. 5 - April 5. The Volendam also offers a new seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise from Ft. Lauderdale on Dec. 14.
- The 1,266-passenger Maasdam, featuring large KidZone and Waverunner teen clubs, as the year-around Caribbean vessel, sailing on seven-day Western and Eastern Caribbean cruises round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale, with weekly departures Jan. 6 to Dec. 15, 2002.
- The farewell Caribbean cruises of the ms Westerdam, sailing from Ft. Lauderdale on five- and eight-day cruises. The 1,494-passenger ship sails March 2, 2002, on its last voyage, concluding eight days later on March 10.
- Festive holidays at sea, with 14 Christmas and New Year's cruises in the Caribbean for 2002, ranging from seven to 16 days. Departures are offered from Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, and Port Canaveral.
Book Early for the Best Savings in 2002
Holland America continues its Early Savings program in 2002, with attractive discounts for guests who reserve in advance.
For example, with Early Savings discount, 2002 double-occupancy cruise fares start at just $589 [CAN $899] for a five-day cruise on the Westerdam.
Double-occupancy cruise fares for seven-day cruises on board the Maasdam or Veendam start at just $779 [CAN $1,179]. And, double-occupancy fares for 10-day Wayfarer/Seafarer cruises on the Volendam or Zaandam begin at just $1,389 [CAN $2,099]. Fares include port charges. SOURCE: Holland America Line
Back to the top of the news list
SEATTLE, Sept. 28 -- Holland America will launch a new Florida home port next year with the introduction of Port Canaveral as a gateway to the premium line's popular seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries. Six sailings depart starting Nov. 9, 2002, aboard the 1,440-passenger Zaandam.
"As Holland America continues to provide attractive and convenient cruise options next year, we are delighted to be able to add a completely new gateway in addition to Fort Lauderdale and Tampa for our more than 150 Caribbean cruises,'' said David Giersdorf, senior vice president of marketing and sales. "The Zaandam is ideal for this market, with the highest passenger ratings of our fleet, dedicated kids rooms and a contemporary decor complete with autographed rock guitars.''
Oct. 19, 2002, the Zaandam sets off from Vancouver on a 21-day transcanal cruise that ends at Port Canaveral on Florida's central east coast. Zaandam will be the first Holland America vessel to sail from the ``Space Coast'' port located only a few miles from the Kennedy Space Center.
Following the transcanal cruise, the Zaandam will sail a series of six seven-day eastern Caribbean cruises, departing Saturdays from Nov. 9 through Dec. 14, 2002. The itinerary features Philipsburg on the Dutch side of the French-Dutch island of St. Maarten; St. Thomas; and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Two special seven-day holiday cruises follow, departing Dec. 21 through 28.
Eastern Caribbean cruises feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, the company's award-winning private island paradise. Guests may sail, swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters, bask on white sand beaches, have a beachside massage, and then enjoy an array of traditional barbecue fare. The island also offers a fun time for kids with a variety of age-appropriate activities through the company's Club HAL children's program.
Prices for 7-day Eastern Caribbean Zaandam cruises start at US$699 per person, double occupancy, including port charges. Government taxes are extra.
Holland America's premium cruises feature spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, casino, first-rate entertainment, duty-free on-board shops, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, the "Passport to Fitness'' activity program and complete fitness center, as well as the popular "tipping not required'' ship policy.
In addition, Holland America offers many services and amenities at no additional cost -- such as espresso drinks, premium ice cream, popcorn at the movies, room service, an alternative restaurant and more. SOURCE: Holland America Line
Back to the top of the news list
CANTON, Mass., and GAINESVILLE, Texas, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Avitar, Inc. (Amex: AVR - news) today announced that its subsidiary, BJR Security Service, has teamed with Easton, Mass.-based C&R Associates, Inc. in a joint services and marketing arrangement to provide canine explosive and firearms detection services as part of the heightened security measures being taken at the port of Boston. The initial team of canines, handlers and investigators has already arrived in the Boston area to begin work with C&R, a maritime security firm, in searching cruise ships and their trailers scheduled for loading.
We look forward to playing an important role in the effort to ensure the safety of travelers following the events of September 11th,'' said Peter P. Phildius, Avitar's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. ``We immediately reallocated our resources at BJR to meet this request from C&R so that we could get our trained teams of personnel and canines to Boston to implement our program of protection through detection.''
Ron Allen, Vice President of Operations for Avitar, said, Due to the importance of this project, we took the extra step of bringing in investigators with law enforcement backgrounds to work with our canines and their handlers.''
Charles Patterson, President of C&R said, "We selected BJR because their team combines highly trained, odor-specific dogs with handlers and investigators with extensive law enforcement experience. We are initiating this program with BJR as part of our continuing commitment to maritime passenger safety, and not in response to any specific threat. However, with the current environment, we, along with marine authorities, feel a heightened level of security is warranted.''
Avitar announced earlier this week that it expects to increase the number of explosive and firearm dogs in the field by approximately 30% in the next two weeks, and then double the overall capacity within 60 days. The company said there is an acute shortage of canines trained in the detection of explosives and firearms, and that it is maximizing its resources and training facilities to meet the growing demand in what has shifted from a deterrent program to a threat-response agenda.
BJR's Dog Security Detection Program is becoming a leader in an education market estimated at approximately $75 million and also is participating in the additional multi-million dollar opportunities in the corporate and government sectors. The company's current six-acre training facility in Gainesville, Texas, consists of office facilities, kennels, classroom, training building and training fields, and other agreements have been signed for additional housing facilities.
This release contains forward looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties including the development and marketing of new applications and other risks that are detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. SOURCE: Avitar, Inc.
Back to the top of the news list
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES TO OFFER "AMERICAN HEROES PROGRAM" TO RESCUE & RELIEF WORKERS IN NEW YORK AND WASHINGTON, D.C.
MIAMI (09/28/01) - Carnival Cruise Lines has introduced a special "American Heroes Program" for anyone directly involved in on-site rescue and relief efforts in New York and Washington, D.C.
The program offers deeply discounted cruise rates starting at $199 for three-day cruises; $249 for four-day cruises; and $399 for seven-day cruises on a variety of itineraries to the Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico. The special discounts are available on a wide selection of sailing dates through 2002. Reservations must be made by Dec. 31, 2001.
"There are many thousands of heroes among us who have worked tirelessly in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "We are extremely pleased to extend special recognition and appreciation to the firefighters, police officers, medical personnel and others who have worked so hard at the sites by offering this program. Our 'American Heroes Program' is a small gesture of thanks at the point they're ready to make future vacation plans," he said.
Bookings for the "American Heroes Program" are fully commissionable to travel agents. Reservations may be made by contacting Carnival Cruise Lines' Special Promotions Desk at 1-800-794-6225 and requesting fare code CPH1. A verification letter supplied by worker's employer will be required at the time of reservation.
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD. PROMOTES CAPT. WILLIAM WRIGHT TO SENIOR VP OF SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT
MIAMI - 9/28/01 - Capt. William S. Wright, who has directed a comprehensive upgrading of navigational systems for the fleet of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Safety and Environment, the company announced today. He is responsible for developing and overseeing all corporate environmental strategy and activities.
Capt. Wright, 47, a nine-year veteran of Royal Caribbean International, has served as Master of three ships, and for the last three years, he has managed both the Bridge 2000 and the Navigation 2000 programs. He oversaw a total revision of navigation policies and procedures, and the company's manual has been adopted by the Norwegian Shipowners Association as a template for bridge procedures. Capt. Wright also served as chief instructor for training in navigation and maneuvering for the world's largest cruise ships - Voyager of the Seas and her sister ships.
"Captain Wright has earned international acclaim for his expertise in navigation," said Jack Williams, president of Royal Caribbean International. "With his valuable experience at sea, he will help us maintain and strengthen our shipboard environmental, safety and security programs."
Among the advanced technologies introduced by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. are the cruise industry's only gas-turbine engines, which reduce airborne emissions by 80 to 98 percent.
Capt. Wright has a master's degree in marine engineering from Vestfold College in Norway. He joined Royal Caribbean in 1992 as a second officer on Nordic Prince and was promoted to captain in 1997. He has lectured at the Norwegian Maritime College in Horten, Norway.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that
operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal
Celebrity Tours. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have
a combined total of 22 ships in service and seven under construction or on
firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates land-tour vacations in Alaska
utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information
can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com & www.celebritycruises.com
Back to the top of the news list
AURORA, Ill., Sept. 27 -- According to the AAA-Chicago Motor Club, many air carriers, cruise lines and hotel chains are offering numerous unpublished discounts, the vanguard of what industry experts say will become a wave of cheap fares and accommodations aimed at luring back wary travelers.
"The travel industry is trying its hardest to stimulate demand,'' said Steve Nolan, AAA-CMC spokesman. "So the industry is working with a degree of desperation to get travelers back in line. That means lower prices, smaller crowds and a good experience for consumers who are willing to buck the trend.''
For travelers who are considering a domestic trip, it is virtually assured that excellent bargains will be available in the upcoming months and well into 2002. Savings of 20-30 percent should not be uncommon. Travel experts at AAA-CMC affirm that the best chances of finding lower rates for hotels, for instance, will be in large cities, where convention rooms are empty.
"Travelers also should shop around the smaller markets, too,'' added Nolan. "They might find nightly rates are negotiable when several competitors are nearby.'' AAA-CMC asserts that information has never been more important to make right decisions about travel. The club recommends consumers seek the advice of professional travel consultants when planning a trip. Travel agents are best prepared to provide customers with updated travel information along with specific advice concerning the consumer's specific travel needs.
For those not willing to take to the skies in light of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, AAA-CMC urges motorists to consider making alternate travel arrangements for ground transportation. AAA-CMC expects that auto travel will increase throughout the United States as many Americans elect to travel on the nation's highways rather than through its airways. Currently, more than 80 percent of all vacation travel is by motor vehicle.
"That total is expected to rise by an undetermined amount for at least the next few months, and possibly even longer if the price of gasoline remains steady,'' Nolan said.
As the largest full-service travel agency in North America, AAA employs professional travel counselors who are available to book airline, rail and cruise trips, package tours, vacation getaways, business travel programs, group travel and no-fee hotel/motel reservations.
Member service counselors can chart a traveler's next vacation or business trip on AAA's exclusive TripTik routings, marked to trace a personalized route. Each strip indicates points of interest, as well as stops for gas, food, lodging and tolls, along with estimated drive times. AAA TourBook guides list thousands of attractions and accommodations in the United States and Canada, while CampBook guides list private camping and recreational vehicle areas.
The AAA-Chicago Motor Club is a not-for-profit, tax paying membership organization serving more than 800,000 members and the general public in Illinois and Northern Indiana. The AAA-Chicago Motor Club provides automotive, insurance, travel and financial services, and is a member of The Auto Club Group. Visit their web site at www.aaa.com. SOURCE: AAA-Chicago Motor Club
Back to the top of the news list
CHANGE IN SEABOURN SUN'S FAREWELL WORLD CRUISE IN 2002
Luxury Ship Diverted From Red Sea Segment to Indian Ocean Islands, Africa.
MIAMI, Sept 27, 2001--Seabourn Cruise Line has altered the itinerary of the 758-guest Seabourn Sun's 2002 World Cruise to avoid passing through the Red Sea region. The revised itinerary remains at 102 days overall and sails from San Francisco on January 9, 2002 as planned, ending in Fort Lauderdale on April 22, 2002.
The altered segment deletes a passage through the Red Sea, Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea from Mumbai (Bombay), India on March 15 to Malaga, Spain on April 10. Instead, the ship will sail from Mumbai across the Indian Ocean, visiting the islands of Mahe in the Seychelles and Mauritius. Guests will then explore Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town, South Africa; the island of St. Helena; Dakar, Senegal and Las Palmas on Grand Canary Island, before crossing the Atlantic to St. Thomas as published.
A variety of shorter World Cruise segments from eight days to 90 days or more in length can also be purchased. Guests booked on some published segments will now embark and disembark at different ports than originally advertised. Seabourn staff members are in touch with these guests and their travel agents to arrange alternative air transportation and make any other adjustments necessary. The complete revised itinerary is available for viewing on Seabourn's website at www.seabourn.com.
Seabourn Sun is one of the most highly praised ships in the world. Renowned for her exceptionally attentive service standards, fine cuisine served in a single elegant seating and luxurious amenities such as the stunning Seabourn Spa du Soleil and the complete Golf Club and Pro Shop, she has attracted a loyal following who accompany her World Cruise year after year. This is her final voyage under the Seabourn banner, and many special events and gala festivities have been planned to make it a voyage to remember. For more information or to reserve staterooms on Seabourn Sun's Farewell World Cruise, contact your travel agent or call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391. Source: Seabourn
Back to the top of the news list
NASSAU, The Bahamas--Sept. 26, 2001--Steiner Leisure Limited announced today that, as a result of the cessation of operations on September 25, 2001 of Renaissance Cruises, the Ft. Lauderdale, Florida based premium cruise line, Steiner Leisure's earnings per share are estimated to be reduced by $0.02 in the third quarter, $0.02 in the fourth quarter and a range of $0.06 - $0.08 in 2002.
Steiner Leisure Limited is the leading worldwide provider of spa services. The company operates its spas and salons on 112 cruise ships, and at 50 resort spas and 17 luxury day spas. Our cruise line and land-based resort customers include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Disney Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Holland America Lines, Marriott, Park Place Entertainment and Sun International. Elemis Limited, a dedicated spa therapy company, manufactures its Elemis brand for use on board Steiner cruise ships spas. This top quality European line of beauty products is also distributed worldwide to some of the most exclusive hotels, salons, health clubs and destination spas. Elemis, as well as other Steiner private label products, including La Therapie, Ionithermie, and Steiner Hair Care, are available at www.timetospa.com.
Steiner Leisure also owns and operates three post secondary schools (comprised of nine campuses) located in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Sarasota, Virginia and Baltimore. Offering degrees in massage, advanced therapy and skin care, these schools train and qualify spa professionals for health and beauty positions within the Steiner family of companies or other industry entities.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Certain statements in this press release and in our other published information may contain forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include the continuing effect on the economy in general and the travel and leisure segment in particular of the events of September 11, 2001; our dependence on cruise line concession agreements and land-based spa agreements of specified terms and that are terminable by cruise lines and the lessors of land-based spas with limited or no advance notice under certain circumstances; dependence on the financial viability of the cruise lines and land-based resorts we serve; the risk that renewals of an agreement with a cruise line or land-based spa will require reductions in margins on existing agreements, as well as on the renewed agreement, with that cruise line or land-based spa; our dependence on the cruise industry and our being subject to the risks of that industry; uncertainties beyond our control that could affect our ability to timely and cost effectively construct land-based spa facilities; the Company's limited experience in land-based spas; risks that accompany the acquisition and operation of facilities in countries with histories of economic and/or political instability; the risk that the company will be unable to effectively integrate new acquired businesses or facilities; changes in tax and other laws and regulations affecting Steiner Leisure Limited and other factors described in further detail in Steiner Leisure Limited's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000. Source: Steiner Leisure
Back to the top of the news list
MORRISTOWN, N.J., Sept. 27 -- Changes in 2002 cruise plans in the wake of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington are likely to multiply and to extend throughout the world in the weeks ahead, according to CruiseReports Editor-in-Chief Michael Brown.
"We're now beginning to see the first wave of movements of ships out of the Eastern Mediterranean and other politically volatile areas, and we expect many more shifts in plans for next summer before things settle down again,'' Brown commented. "The way things are currently shaping up, we expect more ships than usual to be based in the Caribbean and fewer in Europe next summer.''
The one segment of the cruise market relatively untouched by the shifting schedules, Brown noted, is the American-flag operators who operate on inland rivers, along the U.S. coastline, in Alaska and among the Hawaiian Islands.
To keep subscribers up with these rapidly occurring developments, CruiseReports newsletter has been constantly updating its Web site www.cruise-reports.com with the latest announcements. "News has been coming in so rapidly that we had to add a time to the date on the items we put on the Web site,'' said Brown. "We have also been answering lots of specific questions from people concerned about their cruise plans through our 'Ask Jessica' service on the site. We make a point of answering all the questions that we receive, but naturally give first priority to those that come from subscribers to the newsletter.'' SOURCE: CruiseReports
Back to the top of the news list
Aloha United Way, Read To Me, Bishop Museum and Hawaii Intl Film Festival Will Benefit from Norwegian Star Inaugural Festivities
MIAMI, Sept. 26, 2001 - On December 15, 2001, Norwegian Cruise Line will host an overnight fundraiser cruise from Honolulu to benefit four Hawaii charities as part of the line's inaugural festivities for its new ship, Norwegian Star. The new ship, which will be based year-round in Hawaii, is the second vessel to be purpose-built for NCL's exclusive cruising concept, Freestyle Cruising.
All ticket revenue from the gala cruise will be paid directly to Aloha United Way, Read To Me International Foundation (an Hawaii literacy charity), Hawaii's Bishop Museum and the Hawaii International Film Festival and will exclusively benefit these charities. In addition, NCL will donate the use of the ship and all operational, food and beverage services and amenities for the sailing.
"NCL has a long history of contributing to the communities in which it does business and we are proud to assist these very worthy organizations in their charitable work. We want to become an important contributor and member of the local community,'' said Colin Veitch, president and chief executive officer of NCL. "Hawaii is a destination that our guests repeatedly request and we look forward to sharing the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands with cruise passengers around the world.''
Guests will enjoy a full evening and morning of culinary delights with Norwegian Star's 10 different restaurants as well as a sail away cocktail party, a Broadway show, a comedy show and a silent auction that will also raise money for the charities.
Beginning Dec. 16, 2001, the 91,000-ton, 2,220-passenger Norwegian Star will offer weekly seven-day, year-round itineraries round-trip from Honolulu, Oahu and Lahaina, Maui. Norwegian Star also has the distinction of being the first ship purpose built for the Hawaii market and is the only modern ship to be deployed there year round. All NCL Hawaii itineraries will include visits to the four main Hawaiian Islands: Oahu (Honolulu), The Big Island of Hawaii (Kona and/or Hilo), Maui (Lahaina), and Kauai (Nawiliwili or Port Allen) including a stop at Fanning Island, NCL's Pacific hideaway - a remote island in the republic of Kiribati.
Norwegian Star is one of three new ships purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising, an innovative new concept which offers NCL passengers a more relaxed, resort-style cruise product with complete flexibility and non-intrusive service of the highest standard. NCL's other purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships include the recently-introduced, 78,000-ton Norwegian Sun and the 91,000-ton Norwegian Dawn, sister ship to Norwegian Star, which is scheduled for introduction in December 2002.
NCL will have two other ships in Hawaii: Norwegian Sky, which will offer 10-day itineraries and Norwegian Wind which will sail 10-, 11- and 12-day itineraries. Norwegian Wind also sails in Alaska, Asia, Australia and the Caribbean; Norwegian Sky also sails in Alaska and the Caribbean. Other NCL ships include: Norwegian Dream, with itineraries to South America, Europe, Canada & New England and the Caribbean; Norwegian Majesty, which operates in Bermuda and the Caribbean; Norwegian Sea, sailing in the Caribbean and Canada & New England; and the Norway, recently re-introduced into the NCL fleet, sailing an Eastern Caribbean Itinerary.
Aloha United Way (AUW) is a community solutions provider. Through its network of agencies and partnerships, AUW helps support 65 charities and support agencies in Hawaii. Read to Me International Foundation addresses the literacy needs of children and seeks to ensure that every child is read to every day for at least 10 minutes.
Hawaii's Bishop Museum is the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific and is recognized throughout the world for its cultural collections, research projects, consulting services and public educational programs. The Hawaii International Film Festival is dedicated to advancing understanding and cultural exchange among the peoples of Asia, the Pacific and North America through the medium of film.
Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line is an international cruise company and industry innovator that currently operates a fleet of nine ships sailing to more than 200 ports around the world.
For reservations and more information, contact a travel agent of NCL in the U. S. and Canada at (800) 327-7030; in Miami-Dade County, Florida, (305) 436-0866; visit NCL's web site at www.ncl.com
For reservations and information on the fundraising cruise, contact Pacific Management Consultants, Inc., at (808) 536-5688. Source: NCL
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN SAILS AT 92% OCCUPANCY LEVEL
Miami, Sept 26, 2001 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced today that occupancy on the combined fleets of Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises was 92% on the sailings departing Thursday, September 20 through Monday, September 24, 2001. For the company's seven-night Caribbean cruises, the occupancy level was 97%.
"Concerns regarding the safety of traveling are easing on a daily basis," said Richard Fain, chairman of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., "and we are confident that consumer confidence will continue to build in coming weeks. In the meantime, we will do whatever we can as a company to speed that recovery."
The company plans to hold a conference call on Tuesday, October 2, at 10 a.m. EST to provide an update on business developments. This call can be listened to, either live or on a delayed basis, on the company's investor relations web site at www.rclinvestor.com.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Celebrity Tours. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have a combined total of 22 ships in service and seven under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates cruise-tour vacations in Alaska utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com or www.celebritycruises.com.
Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performances or achievements to differ materially from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include general economic and business conditions, changes in cruise industry competition, reduced consumer demand for cruises as a result of any number of reasons, including armed conflict or political instability, availability of air service, the delivery schedule of new vessels, changes in interest rates or oil prices and other factors described in further detail in Royal Caribbean's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Source: Royal Caribbean International
Back to the top of the news list
HORIZON TO SAIL FROM PHILADELPHIA -- ZENITH TO SAIL FROM BALTIMORE FOR REMAINDER OF BERMUDA SEASON
MIAMI, Sept 26, 2001 - Due to the recent terrorist attack in New York and its effect on operations at the Port of New York, Celebrity Cruises will sail its ship Horizon from the Port of Philadelphia and its ship Zenith from the Port of Baltimore for the remainder of the 2001 Bermuda season.
Both ships will depart on September 29, October 6, 13, and 20. In Philadelphia, Horizon will arrive at 7 a.m. and depart at 7 p.m. In Baltimore, Zenith will arrive at 7 a.m. and depart at 6 p.m.
Because of the change of ports, Celebrity will provide ground transportation from New York to Philadelphia and Baltimore to assist guests in reaching their ship. Specific pick-up locations and times are available through guests' travel agents and Celebrity Cruises.
Celebrity also will provide Horizon and Zenith guests with a certificate for a 25-percent discount on a future seven-night Celebrity cruise, redeemable for cruises departing through December 15, 2002, excluding June, July and holiday sailings.
Guests needing assistance may reach Celebrity Cruises at 1-800-437-3111. Guests calling from the United Kingdom or Ireland should dial +44 (0) 1932-834440. Guests calling from France should dial 0800 204060. Guests calling from Scandinavia should dial +47 22 51-3780. All other international guests should contact their local cruise representatives.
Should additional itinerary changes become necessary, they will be made public as soon as possible, and posted on the Celebrity Cruises website at www.celebritycruises.com. Source: Celebrity Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
CARNIVAL CORPORATION BRANDS ACHIEVE 97.7 PERCENT OCCUPANCY LEVEL FOR PAST WEEK
MIAMI (09/27/01) - For departures for the period between Wednesday,
Sept. 19 and Sunday, Sept. 23, 2001, the six brands of Carnival Corporation
operated at an occupancy level of 97.7 percent. During this period, the six brands - Carnival, Holland America, Windstar, Seabourn, Costa and Cunard - carried 58,718 guests.
"Obviously, the strengthening in occupancy levels is very encouraging and clearly indicates that consumers are resuming their vacation plans, including returning to the airways," said Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation chairman and CEO.
He added that despite the increased security at airports and seaports, delays have been less than anticipated and consumers are demonstrating a desire to begin traveling again. "It's apparent that based on these numbers Americans are heeding the advice of our elected officials and returning to their normal activities, which includes taking vacations," Arison said.
Carnival Corporation is comprised of Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise line based on passengers carried, Holland America Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Windstar Cruises. Carnival Corporation's various brands operate 43 ships in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexican Riviera, South America and other worldwide destinations. Source: Carnival Corp.
Back to the top of the news list
CELEBRITY CRUISES REDEPLOYS SHIPS PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER 2002 SAILINGS
MIAMI - Sept 25, 2001 - Celebrity Cruises will redeploy two of its three ships originally scheduled to cruise in Europe in summer 2002 to the North American market.
Only Constellation will sail in Europe next summer. Millennium and Mercury will be redirected to new itineraries.
"Europe remains a viable vacation market," said Rick Sasso, president of Celebrity Cruises, "and during the summer of 2002, Celebrity will deploy its newest ship, Constellation, in Europe. At the same time, we think it is wise to reposition some ships."
Constellation, which will be delivered to Celebrity in late April, 2002, was scheduled to sail from Rome, Italy and Barcelona, Spain on seven-, 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises. She will now sail on several seven-night Western Mediterranean cruises departing from Barcelona in May 2002, then reposition to Dover, England for 14-night Baltic sailings from June through August 2002, then reposition to Barcelona, Spain for 10- and 11-night Western Mediterranean cruises from mid-September through mid-October 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled seven-night Southern Caribbean sailings from San Juan, Puerto Rico in November 2002.
Millennium was previously scheduled to sail between Barcelona and Istanbul on 12-night Mediterranean cruises. She will now finish her previously scheduled seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale, then remain in Fort Lauderdale for 10- and 11-night Ultimate Caribbean sailings from mid-April through September 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale in October 2002.
Mercury was previously scheduled to sail a variety of Baltic and Mediterranean cruises from Copenhagen and Barcelona. She will now finish her previously scheduled 14-night South American cruises, with the last sailing being modified to a 14-night cruise from Rio de Janerio, Brazil to Valparaiso, Chile. She then repositions to San Diego and sails two 14-night Transcanal cruises to and from Miami in April 2002, then reposition to Vancouver for seven-night Alaska cruises from late-May through the end of September 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in mid-October 2002.
Celebrity Cruises also is limiting the planned expansion of Royal Celebrity Tours in Europe in 2002. Royal Celebrity Tours will continue to pursue land-tour programs for guests onboard Constellation only. Royal Celebrity Tours will continue to operate normally in Alaska.
Guests booked on cancelled or redeployed cruises may be eligible for compensation from Celebrity Cruises. The specific details of that compensation will be provided to guests and travel agents as soon as they are finalized.
New itineraries are expected to be open for sale to the public and travel agents in mid-October, 2001. A special help desk has been established to assist guests and travel agents impacted by these itinerary changes. That
help desk may be reached by dialing 1-888-305-4626.
More specific itineraries, dates and other information will be forthcoming from Celebrity Cruises. Itinerary changes will be made public as soon as possible, as well as posted on the Celebrity Cruises website at
www.celebritycruises.com. Source: Celebrity Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL REDEPLOYS SHIPS PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER 2002
MIAMI - Sept 25, 2001 - Royal Caribbean International will redeploy two of its four ships originally scheduled to cruise in Europe in summer 2002 to the North American market.
Brilliance of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas will sail in Europe next summer. Rhapsody of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas will be redirected to new itineraries.
"We feel Europe is still a very viable vacation market, and we will sail our newest ship there in the summer of 2002," said Jack Williams, president of Royal Caribbean International. "However, with the unpredictable nature of the current vacation marketplace, we think it is prudent to reposition some of our ships. Our long-term commitment to the European marketplace remains unchanged."
Brilliance of the Seas, which will be delivered to Royal Caribbean in early July, 2002, was scheduled to sail from Barcelona, Spain on 12-night Mediterranean cruises. She will now sail 12-night cruises to Scandinavia and Russia, and the British Isles and Norwegian Fjords departing from Harwich, England during July and August 2002, then reposition to Boston for 10-night New England and Canada cruises in September and October 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled 10- and 11-night cruises in the Caribbean, departing from Miami in November 2002.
Rhapsody of the Seas was previously scheduled to sail a variety of cruises in Northern Europe, the Baltic, the British Isles, Canada and New England. She will now finish her previously scheduled seven-night Western Caribbean sailings from New Orleans in March 2002, then reposition to Galveston, Texas for seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from April through October 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled 7-night Western Caribbean sailings from Galveston in October 2002.
Grandeur of the Seas was scheduled to sail seven-night Eastern and Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona, Spain and Rome, Italy. She will now finish her previously scheduled 10- and 11-night Circle the Caribbean sailings from Miami through April 2002, then reposition to Southern California for seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from May through September 2002. She will then continue on her previously scheduled seven-night Western Caribbean sailings from New Orleans in October 2002.
Splendour of the Seas was scheduled to sail from Southampton, England on a variety of European cruises, and from Venice, Italy for sailings to the Greek Isles. She will now sail from Barcelona, Spain on seven-night Western Mediterranean cruises from late-April through October 2002.
Royal Caribbean International also is limiting the planned expansion of Royal Celebrity Tours in Europe in 2002. Royal Celebrity Tours will continue to pursue land-tour programs for guests onboard Splendour of the Seas only. Royal Celebrity Tour will continue to operate normally in Alaska.
Guests booked on cancelled or redeployed cruises may be eligible for compensation from Royal Caribbean. The specific details of that compensation will be provided to guests and travel agents as soon as they are finalized.
New itineraries are expected to be open for sale to the public and travel agents in mid-October, 2001. A special help desk has been established to assist guests and travel agents impacted by these itinerary changes. That help desk may be reached by dialing 1-888-305-4626.
More specific itineraries, dates and other information will be forthcoming from Royal Caribbean International. Itinerary changes will be made public as soon as possible, as well as posted on the Royal Caribbean International website at www.royalcaribbean.com. Source: Royal Caribbean Intl
Back to the top of the news list
Sea Princess Adds 16 Roundtrip Los Angeles Voyages
Royal Princess Adds 10 Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale Voyages
SANTA CLARITA, CA--Sept. 24, 2001--Princess has announced several new departures increasing North American-based cruising opportunities.
Sea Princess will now offer 16 new Mexico sailings in Spring 2002, and Royal Princess will now feature a series of 10-day Panama Canal cruises. These sailings will replace the ships' previously scheduled itineraries.
"With the growing interest in North American cruising, and the popularity of these destinations, we felt it made sense to add ships to these markets,'' said EVP Dean Brown. "Passengers will find it convenient to join either the Sea Princess from Los Angeles or Royal Princess in Ft. Lauderdale this coming Winter/Spring season.''
Sea Princess Offers Additional Mexico Sailings
Due to popular response to Princess' return to Mexican Riviera cruising, Sea Princess will now add to her existing Mexico schedule with 10 additional seven-day sailings, as well as six new cruises on a 10-day itinerary. These new Spring 2002 departures replace the ship's originally scheduled Southern Caribbean cruises.
From December 29 through March 2 Sea Princess will sail on additional seven-day voyages that take in the warmth and excitement of Mexico's favorite ports, including Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. From March 8 through April 28 the ship begins a series of longer 10- day journeys, which feature these ports plus Acapulco and Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa.
"This new itinerary serves as an exciting complement to our new Star Princess, which will be the largest and most amenity-filled vessel on the West Coast when she begins seven-day Mexico sailings in March,'' said Brown.
Royal Princess Returns to the Panama Canal
One of Princess passengers' favorite ships, Royal Princess will now be deployed for a series of 10 Panama Canal sailings in Spring 2002. The new sailings replace the ship's 2002 World Cruise and several Mediterranean sailings.
The new 10-night itinerary sails round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale and calls at Cartagena, Limon (Costa Rica), Grand Cayman and Cozumel as well as a transit through the Panama Canal's Gatun Locks. The ship will offer nine sailings between February 11 and May 2.
"We understand that these changes will alter some travel plans for passengers booked on the previous deployments and we will do everything possible to accommodate them on alternative itineraries and minimize the disruption to their travel schedules,'' said Brown.
Passengers on either ship will travel in style while enjoying Princess' trademark Personal Choice Cruising. Sea Princess passengers can enjoy their own private Mexican hideaway with one of the ship's 410 balcony cabins, while the five-star Royal Princess, consistently rated as one of Princess passengers' favorite ships, boasts all-outside cabins and a wrap-around promenade deck for excellent viewing of the Canal passage and other exciting ports of call.
Fares for Sea Princess' Mexico sailings begin at $499 per person. Royal Princess' Panama Canal sailings begin at $999. Special group rates are available as well.
More information about Princess' schedules and fares is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS. Source: Princess Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
Cruise Industry First: Personal Web Sites Offer Revolutionary Communication Tools for Crystal Cruises' Guests
Efficient, Entertaining & Educational Addition to Computer University@Sea
LOS ANGELES, Sept 24 - Writing dozens of postcards, or even typing numerous e-mails, can be tiring and tedious while on vacation. Furthermore, the recipient often receives the uninspired postcard after the sender has returned home. Luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is introducing a solution that is not only creative, but also unique in the industry. Crystal Cruises is the first line to launch a personal web site service.
Effective this month on Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, Crystal Cruises' guests can learn to design and publish a personal web site on the Internet, thus creating a virtual travel log chronicling their cruise experience. Friends and family around the world can sail along on their own virtual cruise--in real-time--whether the traveler is in San Francisco or Shimizu.
For its new complimentary Computer University@Sea class, "How To Create A Personal Web Site," Crystal Cruises has custom designed software to enable quick learning and facilitate the creation of photo albums and travel logs. In as few as 45 minutes, guests can create a personal web site using any combination of text, pictures, hyperlinks, and colors. The proprietary software offers a library of 1,500 photos, including variCD-ROM. Guests can also include pictures captured live from the various onboard web cams.
For convenience, each guest can set a "friends and family" list of up to four contacts who will automatically be notified via e-mail whenever the personal web site is updated with new text or images. Guests can personally send e-mails to other contacts, sharing the URL and encouraging them to log on to the Internet for real-time updates.
"Although the Crystal Cruises experience is pampering and luxurious, we know our guests welcome educational and creative activities, too. Our innovative web site class offers the opportunity for Crystal guests to learn a relevant contemporary skill, practice it, and produce a web site that can revitalize their long-distance communication," says Bret Bullock, vice president, entertainment. "The web sites will range from simple to elaborate, depending on each guest's level of involvement. However, even if guests choose not to actually post their site to the Internet, they will still learn more about the computer every time they take a class."
As with all classes in the Computer University@Sea curriculum, "How To
Create A Personal Web Site" is offered on a complimentary basis to all
guests. During and after the class, each guest's personal web site can be previewed exactly as it will appear on the Internet. To publish it on the Computer University@Sea server for 30 to 180 days, the fee starts at $40 for 10 pages and 25 photos. The cost is less per month for multiple-month packages, and depends on the amount of text and images.
This new service is the latest in a steady stream of enhancements to Computer University@Sea since its debut in 1997, when Crystal Cruises became the first line to offer regularly scheduled computer instruction and e-mail. Due to the program's overwhelming popularity, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony added dedicated computer labs to each ship and the program was soon offered on all sailings. Depending on the length of the cruise, there are three to nine instructors teaching curriculums ranging from Microsoft Windows and e-mail classes to more advanced subjects such as mastering spreadsheets and manipulating digital images. Crystal Cruises remains the only cruise line to offer computer instruction on every cruise.
By 1999, Crystal Cruises increased private e-mail transmissions from once daily to four times a day, and notified guests of their e-mail address prior to departure, which enables a traveler to leave personal contact information with family, friends and business associates before setting sail. Today, with the real time Internet connection, e-mails are sent instantly from Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony.
In 2000, Crystal's Computer University@Sea labs were configured for Internet access to enable cruise guests to not only explore cyberspace, but also to send or retrieve e-mail instantly via their own Internet service provider, including MSN, Yahoo, Earthlink and America Online. Guests also retain the option of sending/receiving e-mail through the ships' e-mail service.
By early 2001, the line offered 24-hour internet and e-mail access, either in the dedicated lab, other locations throughout the ship, or in one's own accommodations, as every stateroom was wired for access. Computer University@Sea is powered by Compaq® computers.
Crystal's extensive Internet capabilities augment many other onboard information services that keep guests fully up to date. Guests can watch CNN and ESPN 24 hours a day in most destinations, read daily summaries of The New York Times, receive free delivery of USA Today in most ports, or follow their investments via a personalized stock-tracking e-mail service.
Computer University@Sea charges depend on the guest's service preference. Guests accessing their Internet-based e-mail or exploring cyberspace are charged $1.25 a minute, with a 10-minute minimum. As an alternative, e-mails sent or received via a guest's personal shipboard e-mail address provided by Crystal Cruises cost $3 each, for the first 100,000 bytes which is approximately 40 typed pages. Guests can receive up to 1 million bytes for an additional fee. For both services, there is a nominal one-time set-up fee of $5. Printing, workshops and group instruction are complimentary.
Crystal Harmony and her elegant sister ship, Crystal Symphony, are operated by Crystal Cruises, winner of the travel industry's most distinguished hospitality awards and guidebook ratings. Its most recent honor is an unprecedented sixth consecutive designation as best large-ship cruise line in the 2001 readers' survey conducted by Travel + Leisure magazine. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure, call 800.820.6663. Visit the web site at www.crystalcruises.com. Source: Crystal Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
Crew and Passengers to Hold Memorial Ceremony Honoring
Sept. 11 Victims
MIAMI, Sept. 24 - Staying on a course set long before the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, Delta Queen Coastal Voyages' Cape May Light arrived in New York harbor this morning. According to company officials, it is the first cruise ship to make a port call in New York City since the events of two weeks ago, docking at Chelsea Piers on the Hudson River.
The ship will overnight in New York City and upon its departure Tuesday morning, passengers and crew will gather on deck for a special ceremony to pay tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. A wreath will be tossed into the water as the vessel sails in front of the Statue of Liberty.
"As the world's largest U.S.-flag cruise company, we think it's especially important to let everyone know that New York City is open for business,'' said Roderick K. McLeod, president and chief operating officer of American Classic Voyages Co., the parent company of Delta Queen Coastal Voyages. "Delta Queen Coastal Voyages will support New York and continue to bring our coastal cruiser to Manhattan as previously scheduled.'' The Cape May Light's stay in New York is part of a seven-night Coastal Colors cruise.
The ship will call in New York City three more times this fall, Oct. 1, 8 and 18. The line has revised its city tours to offer attractions in midtown and upper Manhattan.
With a classic ambiance amid modern amenities, the "built-in-America,'' destination-focused Cape May Light takes passengers to ports along the Eastern seaboard that are rich in American history, culture and heritage, including Philadelphia, Savannah, Fall River, Martha's Vineyard, Yorktown (Jamestown and Williamsburg) and Baltimore.
Delta Queen Coastal Voyages, launched in 2001, operates the 224-passenger Cape May Light, styled after the classic coastal steamers that carried passengers between ports in New England nearly a century ago. In April 2002, the Cape May Light will be joined by its twin, the Cape Cod Light. Both vessels will visit ports along the East Coast, in the Maritimes and in the Great Lakes. Source: AMCV
Back to the top of the news list
