News from the world of cruising ~
October 22-31, 2001
For schedule changes & departure information on a specific cruise line or port of call, please select Latest Updates by Cruise Line
Back to Cruise News Weekly Index & Archive
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE INCREASES COMMITMENT TO HAWAII AND SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN
Miami, Oct 31, 2001 - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced the line will increase its commitment to Hawaii and the Southern Caribbean by altering the 2002-2003 deployment for Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Wind.
On Sept. 29, 2002 Norwegian Sky will sail from Vancouver, British Columbia to Los Angeles before beginning a Panama Canal repositioning cruise to Miami, where the ship will remain for drydock. On Oct. 29, 2002, Norwegian Sky will reposition to San Juan on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise and then begin its rotation of seven-night Deep Southern Caribbean and Exotic Southern Caribbean cruises on Nov. 3, 2002. Previously, Norwegian Sky was scheduled to sail from Vancouver to Hawaii for a series of 10-night roundtrip Honolulu cruises before repositioning to Miami for drydock in December.
Norwegian Wind will reposition from Vancouver to Honolulu on Sept. 16, 2002 and begin its rotation of 10- and 11-night round-trip cruises from Honolulu on Sept. 27, 2002. Norwegian Wind was originally scheduled to be in Asia until January 4, 2003 and then sail to Honolulu for the Hawaiian Islands itinerary.
"We're building on the tremendous success we've experienced in the Hawaii market with our seven-day year round itineraries, " said Colin Veitch, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Having operated a reasonably short season in the 10- and 11- day market we are choosing now to increase our commitment by offering 10- and 11-day itineraries throughout the winter season. "
According to Veitch, NCL is also increasing its commitment to the Southern Caribbean and San Juan by adding seven more voyages onboard Norwegian Sky. The revised Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Wind itineraries are at NCL Updates.
Travel agents and passengers affected by this change can call NCL at (800) 327-7030 with questions. For further information on NCL, contact a travel agent or NCL in the US and Canada at (800) 327-7030; in Miami-Dade County, Florida, (305) 436-0866. Source: NCL
Back to the top of the news list
CELEBRITY CRUISES INTRODUCES CARIBBEAN SAILINGS FROM BALTIMORE -- New Caribbean Cruises Are Just a Drive Away
MIAMI, Oct 31, 2001 - Consistent with its reputation for innovation, Celebrity Cruises has introduced one of the industry's most distinctive Caribbean cruise products: a unique series of 10- and 11-night sailings round-trip from Baltimore, Maryland, to some of the most inviting destinations in the Caribbean.
"These incredible new itineraries offer guests the opportunity to sail from the port city of Baltimore to tempting tropical destinations as far south as Belize," said Celebrity Cruises President Rick Sasso. "For guests throughout the mid-Atlantic and northeast, this is the ideal opportunity to take an easy ride on a train, motor coach or car to embark on a warm and exotic Celebrity Caribbean vacation."
Bookings are now open for Celebrity's new cruises from Baltimore, a city rich in history and culture, and a particularly convenient port of departure for guests from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia and Maryland.
Galaxy's 11-night Caribbean cruises depart Baltimore on March 25, April 15, May 6, June 17, July 8 and 29, August 19, September 30, and October 21, 2002, with ports of call in Charleston, South Carolina; St. Thomas; St. Maarten; San Juan, and Nassau. Fares begin at $849 per person, double occupancy.
Galaxy's 10-night Caribbean cruises depart Baltimore on April 5 and 26, May 27, June 7 and 28, July 19, August 9 and 30, September 20, and October 11, 2002, with ports of call in Key West; Cozumel; Belize City; and Cococay and Nassau, Bahamas. Fares begin at $799 per person, double occupancy.
Guests traveling onboard Celebrity's Galaxy will enjoy the relaxed elegance, exceptional cuisine and attentive service that typifies the guest experience on every ship in the Celebrity fleet. And with up to five days at sea built into these new itineraries, guests will have ample opportunity to enjoy every aspect of the captivating destination that is the Celebrity vessel itself.
Celebrity's Galaxy will sail its previously scheduled seven-night southern Caribbean cruises from San Juan through March 17, 2002. A toll-free guest assistance line has been established, at 1-888-305-4626, to assist guests booked on Galaxy's previously scheduled seven-night itineraries from March 22, 2002-April 26, 2003.
Guests booked on the southern Caribbean sailings will be reaccommodated as follows:
-
Guests holding reservations for Galaxy's seven-night sailings from March 22-April 19, 2002, will be re-booked on Celebrity's Infinity from San Juan.
-
Guests holding reservations for the seven-night Galaxy itineraries from April 27-November 9, 2002, will have the option to be re-booked on either Celebrity's Century from Fort Lauderdale, or Royal Caribbean International's Adventure of the Seas from San Juan.
-
Guests holding reservations for Galaxy's seven-night itineraries from November 16, 2002-April 5, 2003, will be re-booked on Celebrity's new Constellation from San Juan.
-
Guests holding reservations for Galaxy's seven-night itineraries from April 12-April 26, 2003, will have the option to be re-booked on either Celebrity's Century from Fort Lauderdale or Royal Caribbean International's Adventure of the Seas from San Juan.
Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the
industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Summit entered
service in October, and Constellation will make its maiden voyage in 2002,
bringing the Celebrity fleet to nine ships. For more information, visit
the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
Join a Luxurious Radisson Seven Seas Sailing Through the Panama Canal and Beyond
10/30/01 - Journey with us this December through the Panama Canal to the cloud forests of Costa Rica. Sail from Fort Lauderdale aboard the luxurious all-suite Seven Seas Navigator or from Puerto Caldera on the Radisson Diamond. Or join Radisson Diamond for New Year's and re-discover beloved Caribbean islands, sailing roundtrip from San Juan.
FREE ECONOMY CLASS AIR PLUS
50% SAVINGS ON SECOND GUEST FARES!
Seven Seas Navigator -
Free Economy Class Air plus 50% Savings on Second Guest Fares!
Ft. Lauderdale to Puerto Caldera
December 17, 2001; 11 nights
Fares from $3,821 per person
Radisson Diamond -
Free Economy Class Air plus 50% Savings on Second Guest Fares!
Puerto Caldera to San Juan
December 21, 2001; 9 nights
Fares from $3,371 per person
Radisson Diamond -
Free Economy Class Air plus 50% Savings on Second Guest Fares!
San Juan to San Juan
December 30, 2001; 9 nights
Fares from $3,371 per person
The holiday season is a time to celebrate family. It is a time to be together without daily distractions. We invite you and your family to spend this special time with our family aboard a Radisson Seven Seas holiday voyage. Other holiday sailings are listed below. Contact your travel professional or call (866) 213-4800 for more information.
Gala Holiday Cruises:
Seven Seas Mariner - Second Guest saves 50%!
Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale
November 15, 2001; 10 nights
Fares from $2,996 per person
Radisson Diamond - 2-for-1 Fares!
San Juan to San Juan
November 20; 7 nights
Fares from $1,598 per person
Seven Seas Mariner - Second Guest saves 50%!
Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale
December 17, 2001; 10 nights
Fares from $3,821 per person
Seven Seas Mariner - Second Guest saves 50%!
Ft. Lauderdale to Callao (Lima)
December 27, 2001; 12 nights
Fares from $3,971 per person
Paul Gauguin - Extended Early Booking Savings!
Roundtrip Papeete; 7 nights
Nov 17, Dec 22 and 29
Fares from $2,595 per person
Some restrictions may apply. Above fares reflect savings. Certain suite categories receive a 25% reduction for the second guest fare. Source: Radisson Seven Seas Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
CALIFORNIA FAMILY MAKES EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY FOR CRUISE ONBOARD ROYAL CARIBBEAN'S VOYAGER OF THE SEAS
MIAMI, 10/30/01 - A California family of five drove over 6,300 miles to sail on Royal Caribbean International's Voyager of the Seas, departing from Miami, in an extraordinary response to the September 11 attacks. The Nieto family of Fairfield, California were booked to take a long-awaited cruise aboard Royal Caribbean International's Voyager of the Seas on September 16, 2001. When it appeared that airline schedule disruptions might prevent them from air travel to Miami, the Nieto's decided to "pack it all in" and make the roundtrip journey to Miami by car.
The family of five's motivation wasn't solely that of a vacation. They wanted their family experience to be a lesson learned from the tragic events of only a few days before. "As a family, we didn't want terrorists to deter us from our plans," said mother, Charlene Nieto. "We wanted our kids to learn the example of not being afraid."
Charlene's husband, John, concurred, and the family set out on its journey on Thursday, September 13. After a straight drive of 49 hours, the Nieto's reached their Ft. Lauderdale hotel at 1 a.m. on Sunday, September 16. They were able to board Voyager of the Seas at 5 p.m. The Nieto's journey was their first visit to Florida. "We've already begun plans to book next year's trip on Explorer of the Seas," continued Charlene.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 15 ships in service and five under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com.
Back to the top of the news list
CARNIVAL TO PRESENT $1.5 MILLION CHECK TO AMERICAN RED CROSS, MAYOR GIULIANI AT ASTA CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK NOV. 5
MIAMI (10/30/01) - As part of the Sept. 11 relief efforts, Carnival Cruise Lines will present a $1.5 million check to the American Red Cross and New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani during the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) World Congress in New York Nov. 5. Funds were generated from a $50 per-cabin donation for all staterooms sold between Sept. 17-Oct. 17.
"Carnival is very proud to make this donation to the American Red Cross, whose selfless and dedicated volunteers continue to work virtually 'round the clock assisting victims' families, firefighters, police officers and other workers. They are American heroes in every sense of the word," said Carnival President Bob Dickinson, who will personally present the check to Mayor Giuliani and the American Red Cross at the conference. Dickinson noted that the $1.5 million donation was made possible through the incredible support of the travel agent community, which accounts for more than 90 percent of all Carnival sales. "Our travel agent partners can be proud that they stepped up not only contributing much-needed funds for the Sept. 11 relief efforts but also doing their part to encourage Americans to resume traveling, an important step in our nation's economic recovery," he said. "For Carnival and its travel agent partners to present this check at the ASTA World Congress, one of the largest and most important gatherings of travel agents in the world, makes this even more special," Dickinson added.
The $1.5 million donation represents the latest chapter in Carnival's decade-long support of the American Red Cross, the world's foremost relief organization. Over the years, Carnival has made significant financial contributions to a variety of American Red Cross initiatives, everything from hurricane and storm relief to blood drives and water safety programs. Earlier this year, Carnival donated $200,000 to the organization to assist residents of Texas and Louisiana in the wake of Tropical Storm Allison, one of the most devastating storms ever to hit the area.
Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 15 "Fun Ships" operating voyages of two to 17 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, New England, the Canadian Maritimes, Bermuda and Europe. The company currently has six new ships with an estimated value of $2.6 billion scheduled for delivery between now and 2004.
Back to the top of the news list
CRYSTAL CRUISES WINS BEST LARGE-SHIP LINE AWARD IN 2001 CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER READERS' SURVEY
LOS ANGELES, Oct 30, 2001 - For the sixth consecutive year, Crystal Cruises has won Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice award for the "Best Large-Ship Line." As in past years, the luxury line scored more than 10 points ahead of its category's second-place winner, and is the only large-ship line, and only one of two cruise lines in either the large- or small-ship category, to place in the Top 100 list of worldwide travel opportunities (destinations, hotels, spas, resorts, etc.).
A complete list of the Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice awards appears in the November issue. As printed in the magazine, "The word dynasty comes to mind." Adds Tom Wallace, editor-in-chief, "The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Poll is the largest and most reliable measurement of consumer opinion about travel properties and services around the world. Winning first place in this poll is inarguably the highest accolade any travel property can receive. That Crystal Cruises has been able to maintain this status for six consecutive years truly puts it in a class by itself."
In August, Crystal Cruises also won the industry's other top award for 2001 as "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" voted by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. "There is no greater honor than to be rated #1 by the discerning travelers who purchase your product and expect a very high degree of satisfaction for their money and time spent. This latest award reflects the tremendous consistency of our luxury product and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all of our employees, shipboard and shoreside," says Gregg L. Michel, president, Crystal Cruises.
The November issue of Condé Nast Traveler specifically recognizes Crystal's high scores in the categories of food, activities, and entertainment. "We're very pleased that all of our efforts to offer the most stimulating activities and sophisticated entertainment, from our lavish production shows and Crystal Visions Enrichment lecture series to a wealth of fitness and sports activities, have been recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, as these are truly hallmarks of the large-ship luxury cruise experience," adds Michel. "Similarly, our strong score in the food category reinforces that we go to great lengths to offer guests superior cuisine. Crystal's combination of creativity, choices, ambience and personal service delivers a fine dining experience."
The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards represent the culmination of an extensive poll of subscriber travel preferences. Large-ship line (vessels carrying 425 or more passengers) scores are percentages based on the "excellent" and "very good" votes from the subscribers in the categories of crew/service, food, cabins, entertainment, activities, and destinations/itineraries. Crystal Cruises operates the two Six-Star rated, 940-guest Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, heralded as two of the most spacious ships afloat. The luxury vessels sail on worldwide itineraries to Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, the Caribbean, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal, Scandinavia and South America. The line's third ship, as of yet unnamed, is scheduled for delivery in summer 2003. Crystal Cruises is sold exclusively through travel agents. Call 800.820.6663 for a brochure, or detailed cruise information can be found at the line's web site: www.crystalcruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN REPORTS THIRD QUARTER RESULTS
MIAMI, Oct 30, 2001 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today announced net income for the third quarter of $159.2 million, or $0.82 per share. Third quarter earnings were negatively impacted by $21.3 million or $0.11 due to lost revenues and extra costs directly associated with passengers not being able to reach their departure ports during the weeks following September 11. Also included in the reported results is an additional $15.4 million or $0.08 in costs associated with business decisions taken in the aftermath of the attacks, including itinerary changes and charges related to closing of offices and deferral of programs. Adjusted for these changes, third quarter net income was $196.0 million or $1.01 per share. This compares to $201.5 million or $1.04 per share for the third quarter of 2000.
Comparable revenues were $966.9 million for the quarter, up 15.8% from the same quarter in 2000, when revenues were $835.2 million. The increase in revenues was due to a 20.1% increase in capacity, offset by a decrease in pricing and occupancy. Net revenue per available lower berth ("Yield") adjusted for lost revenues from the September 11 event was down 4.6%. On a reported basis, yield was down 6.8%.
"We were doing very well in the period leading up to September 11, when our results were running well ahead of previous expectations," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO. "Bookings were better than anticipated and we were continuing to do a good job of managing our costs. Future booking activity for 2002 was even more encouraging. These results demonstrate that the industry was able to continue its strong profitable growth even during a weak economic period."
Future Booking Trends
The terrorist attacks of September 11 and their aftermath have obviously had a dramatic impact on bookings. Everyone was devastated by these tragic events and the whole tourism industry has been impacted. In addition to the immediate impacts on September sailings described above, the tragedy resulted in cancellations of existing bookings and a dramatic drop-off in new bookings.
However, while it is still too early to reach any definitive conclusions, the trend following the tragedy has been quite encouraging. Immediately following the attacks, new bookings dropped by more than 50% over prior year levels. But, within days booking levels began to improve. By the first week in October, new booking levels had almost recovered to their prior year levels. Then the airstrikes started and the Anthrax scare surfaced. Again we experienced a relapse in our bookings, but nowhere near as serious as that following September 11. Again, bookings soon began to trend upward.
During the first twenty days of October, bookings were 98% of the levels we saw during the same period last year. Furthermore, the pace of cancellations continues to slow. In fact, last week's net bookings (i.e. new bookings minus cancellations) are substantially higher than they were during the same week in 2000.
In order to generate this improving trend in demand, we have aggressively reduced prices on many sailings, particularly near-term sailings. While such pricing actions are painful in the short term, their success demonstrates that the demand for cruising continues to be price-elastic. We have had to be especially aggressive to replace lost bookings on very short notice, but do not believe that this degree of aggressiveness will be required on a longer-term basis. Based on the above, we currently estimate that net yields for the fourth quarter will be down, in the range of 10-15%.
Expense Control
Regarding other actions undertaken by the company, Fain commented, "We recognize that we need to be especially pro-active in times like these to address the concerns that face our industry and our company. In the few weeks since the attacks, we've already implemented far-reaching changes throughout the corporation, from improved safety measures that protect our guests to the implementation of substantial cost-cutting measures."
We have redeployed ships, mostly out of Europe, into markets that predominantly focus on drive-in business, where we believe demand will be good. We continue to provide cruise vacations in Europe for European-sourced passengers and Northern Baltic cruises. The ability to redeploy ships and adjust for changes in demand following the September 11 events is a fundamental strength of the business.
We undertook a review of expense-saving opportunities in all areas of corporate operations and capital expenditures, excluding any measures that would affect the quality of our product. Following the review, a number of cost-cutting initiatives for shore-side operations were implemented. Operating costs, including SG&A, on a potential passenger cruise day ("PPCD") basis in 2001, excluding fuel, are expected to be down 5% compared to 2000. Based on the actions we have already taken, similar reductions are expected in 2002.
We have also reviewed our capital expenditure program and have reduced, deferred or eliminated a number of projects. We are currently in discussions with certain shipyards about possible delays in the deliveries of several ships. While new delivery dates have not been finalized, we expect that four ships currently on order will be delayed by several months each. If finally agreed, these ships would commence operations as follows: Navigator of the Seas, first quarter of 2003, Serenade of the Seas, fourth quarter of 2003, Mariner of the Seas, first quarter of 2004, Jewel of the Seas, second quarter of 2004. Based on these new delivery dates and the reduction in capital programs, capital expenditures in 2002 and 2003 are now estimated at $1.1 billion each. This compares to earlier estimates of $1.7 billion for 2002 and $1.2 billion for 2003.
Earnings Estimates
Expense reductions will partially offset the decrease in revenues. Based upon current internal estimates, management is comfortable with the consensus for the fourth quarter. Given the better than expected results for the third quarter, we expect full year earnings to be somewhat higher than analyst estimates.
"We are confident that the steps we are taking will make us a stronger
corporation and keep our focus where it needs to be - on the future," said
Fain. "The cost-cutting measures in our shore-side operations combined with the superior quality of our onboard product will enable us to weather
this storm."
The company scheduled a conference call at 10 a.m. to discuss its earnings. This call can be listened to on a delayed basis on the company's investor relations web site at www.rclinvestor.com. A slide presentation will accompany the conference call, and is also available for viewing at the same web site.
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 23 ships in service and six 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 or www.rclinvestor.com.
Back to the top of the news list
CRUISE INDUSTRY'S TOP CHEFS FEATURED IN NEW INSTRUCTIONAL COOKING VIDEO
MIAMI (10/29/01) - Signature Cuisine of the World's Leading Cruise Lines (WLCL), a new instructional cooking video offering easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipes and culinary tips from the cruise industry's top chefs is now available from the exclusive marketing alliance comprised of Carnival, Holland America, Windstar, Costa, Cunard, and Seabourn member lines.
The 68-minute video, which was produced by Seattle-based Signature Cuisine, Inc., features chefs from each of the six WLCL brands preparing their trademark entree, appetizer, side dish or dessert, while providing commentary describing the ingredients and presentation techniques involved in creating the culinary masterpieces. The video also contains printed recipes of each dish to allow viewers to follow along as the chefs prepare the various items.
"Cruise line cookbooks have become quite popular as of late and this video takes that concept to another level, providing guests an opportunity to see the industry's top culinary artists preparing their signature dishes and learn the 'tricks of the trade' to create these mouth-watering selections at home," said WLCL Executive Director Jack Anderson.
Dishes featured on Signature Cuisine of the World's Leading Cruise
Lines include:
* Veal Chop with Lemon Caper Infusion and Pesto Risotto by Holland
America's Executive Chef John Mulvaney
* Planked Yellowtail Snapper with Watercress Coulis, Olive Whip and
Vanilla Emulsion by Seabourn Executive Chef Karl Muhlberg
* Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet by Windstar's Executive Chef Sean
Knight and Pastry Chef Dave Baker
* Pheasant Breast with Chanterelle Mushroom Stuffing and Port Wine
Sauce by Cunard Line Executive Chef Alan Gruber
* Fresh Linguine with Lobster Sauce by Costa's Executive Chef Antonio
Arbocitta and Sous Chef Fidel Romano
* Jumbo Prawns and Colossal Scallops with Red Wine Beure Blanc by
Carnival's Senior Chef Hanz Holzfeind
Signature Cuisine of the World's Leading Cruise Lines is available in the gift shops aboard the WLCL's 43 vessels or by visiting www.signaturecuisine.com. The video is also available via on-line retailers such as amazon.com. The cost is $17.95 plus shipping and handling. Source: World's Leading Cruise Lines
Back to the top of the news list
Royal Caribbean International's Ships Provide Great Venues To Share The Holidays With Family and Friends
MIAMI, FL, Oct 26, 2001 - Santa's flying reindeer will enable the jolly fellow to make his rounds at sea again this holiday season, when Royal Caribbean International creates a festive atmosphere for thousands of cruise vacationers.
All of the holiday traditions, from caroling to gift-giving, will be served up along with oven-roasted turkey in a fleet of 15 ships sailing to the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. With the launch of Radiance of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas in 2001, the number of ways to enjoy a Cruising Christmas and a Nautical New Year is unprecedented.
Altogether, 13 Royal Caribbean International ships will embark from U.S. ports Dec. 21-24 - seven from Florida, two from California, three from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and another from Galveston, Texas. On Dec. 23, Legend of the Seas departs Sydney, Australia, for a 14-night cruise to New Zealand while Splendour of the Seas leaves Sao Paolo, Brazil, for a seven-night roundtrip voyage to Bahia and the beautiful beaches of Bùzios. Holiday activities designed by the cruise director will vary from ship to ship. Decorated trees, menorahs and music will be the first signs of the season to greet guests. Pastry chefs will fashion gingerbread villages and other sugary masterpieces. There are eggnog parties and brunch menus offering turkey, halibut, beef Wellington, Hanukkah brisket, and eggplant cordon bleu. On Christmas Eve, staff and guests will gather in the ship's soaring atrium or Royal Promenade, where the captain will lead caroling while snow falls.
The most unique show on any cruise ship, an ice-skating production, will be featured in matinee and evening performances throughout the week on Royal Caribbean's three Voyager-class ships. The "Happy Holidays" show in Studio B, equipped with the first and only ice rinks at sea, will bring together the entire entertainment staff - a cast of more than 50 from the ice-skating troupe, Wave Revue singers and dancers, Krooz Komics, musicians, youth staff and cruise staff.
Children also will be invited on stage during a medley that includes "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas," and they will sing "I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas." Children also may participate in a similar theater production by the Wave Revue singers and dancers.
The ice show is presented on Voyager of the Seas, sailing Dec. 23 and 30 from Miami to the western Caribbean; on Explorer of the Seas, sailing Dec. 22 and 29 from Miami to the eastern Caribbean; and on Adventure of the Seas, sailing Dec. 23 and 30 from San Juan to the southern Caribbean. The busiest venue on all Royal Caribbean International ships will be the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program. Besides the "edu-tainment" (educational entertainment) of hands-on science experiments in Adventure Science and the multicultural lessons in Adventure Art, children will make holiday crafts and puppets, bake cookies and animal figures, and perform in skits and talent shows.
Early on Christmas morning, youth staff dressed as elves will assemble the children on the pool deck. Santa will emerge from the Viking Crown Lounge one deck above and join a parade of elves, musicians and kids making their way to the ship's main theater or lounge. Each child will receive a gift while sitting for a photo on Santa's lap. Adult guests also will receive gifts. Royal Caribbean has 28 holiday voyages departing from U.S. ports, including 16 from Florida. The Florida schedule includes: Grandeur of the Seas (Miami), Dec. 21 for 10 nights and Dec. 31 for 11 nights to Circle the Caribbean with six ports, including Aruba and Curacao. Prices start at $1299 and $999 per person double occupancy, respectively.
Majesty of the Seas (Miami), Dec. 24 and 31 for four nights to the Bahamas, and Dec. 28 for three nights to the Bahamas. Prices start at $149 per person double occupancy.
Enchantment of the Seas (Fort Lauderdale), Dec. 23 for seven nights to St. Thomas and the eastern Caribbean and Dec. 30 for seven nights to Cozumel and the western Caribbean. Prices start at $799 and $649 per person double occupancy, respectively.
Monarch of the Seas (Fort Lauderdale), Dec. 24 for five nights to the western Caribbean and Dec. 29 for four nights to the western Caribbean. Prices start at $699 per person double occupancy.
Sovereign of the Seas (Port Canaveral), Dec. 23 and 30 for four nights to the Bahamas, and Dec. 27 for three nights to the Bahamas. Prices start at $199 per person double occupancy.
Other departures from U.S. ports, in addition to Adventure of the Seas from San Juan, are: Rhapsody of the Seas (Galveston), Dec. 23 for seven nights to Aruba, returning Dec. 30 from Aruba to Tampa. Prices start at $649 per person double occupancy. Vision of the Seas (San Diego), Dec. 23 and 30 for seven nights to Puerto Vallarta and the Mexican Riviera. Prices start at $999 per person double occupancy.
Viking Serenade (Los Angeles), Dec. 24 and 31 for four nights to Baja Mexico, and Dec. 28 for three nights to Baja Mexico. Prices start at $369 per person double occupancy
Nordic Empress (San Juan), Dec. 24 for five nights to Barbados and the southern Caribbean and Dec. 29 for four nights to Antigua and the southern Caribbean. Prices start at $489 per person double occupancy.
Radiance of the Seas (San Juan), Dec. 22 and 29 for seven nights to St. Lucia and the southern Caribbean. Prices start at $849 and $1499 per person double occupancy, respectively.
On Dec. 29-31, all ships except Legend of the Seas set sail on New Year's cruises, welcoming 2002 under a canopy of stars over the vast ocean.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 15 ships in service and six under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com. Source: RCI
Back to the top of the news list
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 25 - Northrop Grumman Corporation announced today that, effective immediately, it has suspended all work on Project America, a cruise ship program to build two 1,900-passenger cruise ships at its Pascagoula, Miss., Ingalls Operation. Approximately 1,250 of the 1,600 full-time employees assigned to the project will be affected by this suspension. An additional 500 subcontractor employees could also be affected.
American Classic Voyages Company, the parent of Project America, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Oct. 19, following the tragic events of Sept. 11 and their impact on the tourism industry. As previously stated, Northrop Grumman said that ongoing work on the program was subject to Project America's ability to secure immediate financing for the balance of the contract. The completion of this financing was contingent upon U.S. Maritime Administration loan guarantees.
"Unfortunately, to date the U.S. Maritime Administration has decided not to continue the guaranteed funding necessary for the construction of the ships,'' said Phil Dur, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman's Ship Systems sector. "So it is with sincere regret and a deep feeling of disappointment that we discontinue work on this contract.''
Northrop Grumman will continue its efforts with the U.S. Maritime Administration to obtain guaranteed funding for Project America. As previously announced, the company said it would report a charge to operating margin of approximately $60 million if Project America cannot secure funding and the contract is terminated.
Dur added that the decision follows more than six months of sustained effort by Northrop Grumman to continue work on the first cruise ships to be built in the U.S. in more than 40 years.
Currently, the first cruise ship is 40 percent complete, and 55 percent erected. Approximately 91 percent of the production material has been committed.
Dur said Northrop Grumman's intention is to transfer as many of the affected Ship Systems employees as possible to other shipbuilding projects, although there would be significant layoffs if the suspension leads to a contract termination. All permanent workforce reductions would be implemented in accordance with the company's labor agreement and policies. SOURCE: Northrop Grumman Corporation
Back to the top of the news list
SEABOURN WELL-POSITIONED TO THRIVE
Executive Points to Timely Moves, Commitments by Strong Corporate Parent
MIAMI, Oct 25, 2001--Ultra luxury cruise operator Seabourn Cruise Line will weather the present turmoil in the travel industry and emerge as a stronger brand, according to Richard Meadows, CTC, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the upscale cruise line. Meadows points to substantial investments in the company's shipboard product and the ongoing commitment on the part of its parent Carnival Corporation as evidence that the line can expect a bright future.
"We made some good strategic choices for Seabourn this year," says Meadows. "We consolidated our fleet to the three ships that best deliver the Seabourn product, and we ramped up the product delivery on board while enhancing our back-office efficiency in a way that prepared us for the present challenges. Combined with the financial strength of our corporate parent, which has $2.8 billion in liquidity and the highest investment grade ratings of any cruise operator, Seabourn is positioned not only to survive, but to thrive."
Prior to the terrorist attacks of September 11th, Seabourn's sales figures were showing strong support from agents and consumers for the re-styled Yachts of Seabourn. The company had recorded twelve consecutive weeks during which sales exceeding those of the same period a year prior. Like other lines, Seabourn experienced cancellations and interruptions in the booking patterns in the weeks following the attacks. But now that trend seems to be turning, and Seabourn is seeing improvements week by week.
The decision to re-deploy Seabourn Spirit from the Mediterranean to Alaska for the 2002 summer season is seen as prudent, since Seabourn's two other all-suite ships remain committed to Scandinavia, the Baltic, Western Europe and the French and Italian Rivieras in 2002.
"We are comfortable with our fleet deployment," says Meadows. "Our opportunity is to communicate the changes and get these exciting new itineraries into the marketplace, but there are companies that have not been so fortunate. We are fortunate that we will not be tying up ships and we will be sailing at full strength."
The yachts of Seabourn provide the ultimate in small-ship, ultra-luxury cruise vacations to the most desirable destinations on earth. The Seabourn fleet includes Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend. Source: Seabourn Cruise Line
Back to the top of the news list
HOLLAND AMERICA LINE ADDS 7- AND 10-DAY SAILINGS ON MS RYNDAM TO NEARLY DOUBLE 2002 MEXICO SAILINGS
Seattle, Oct. 22, 2001 - Holland America is nearly doubling the number of its 2002 Mexico cruises from 12 to 22 sailings total. The company is greatly expanding its seven-day Mexico cruises aboard the ms Ryndam, adding nine sailings in fall 2002, plus two holiday cruises. All of the 11 new cruises will sail round-trip from San Diego, a popular home port for the past four years. The 1,266-passenger Ryndam also is changing its scheduled seven-day Sea of Cortez cruise on Oct. 10, 2002 to a 10-day Mexican Riviera/Sea of Cortez cruise departing Oct. 9.
"Holland America has rescheduled the Ryndam to provide more cruises to the perennially popular west coast of Mexico," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "We are focusing on major, popular destinations and departures from home ports such as San Diego, which are easily reached from large population areas. In making these changes, we seek to provide more attractive travel options for our guests and therefore a greater opportunity for our travel agent associates to sell and to introduce their clients to our distinctive brand of five-star premium cruising closer to home."
Giersdorf said Holland America will further help agents by supporting its Mexico cruises with publicity, promotions, booking incentives and a major marketing campaign. He emphasized that the ms Statendam's 2002 Mexico sailing schedule remains unchanged and still features the most 10-day cruises of the Mexican Riviera.
New Ryndam Fall 2002 Schedule
In place of its original fall 2002 cruise schedule to South America, the Ryndam will offer a new three-day Pacific Coast cruise Oct. 6 from Vancouver to San Diego then the 10-day Mexican Riviera/Sea of Cortez cruise departing Oct. 9. The two cruises may be combined for a 13-day vacation.
From Oct. 19-Dec. 28, the luxury liner will depart San Diego on 11 new seven-day cruises, a new offering from Holland America for 2002, with the last two departures being special holiday cruises. The company offers two enjoyable itineraries, sailing roundtrip from San Diego. The Ryndam's fall cruises will alternate between the two itineraries. The Mexico Sea of Cortez Cruises departing San Diego on Oct. 19, Nov. 2, 16 and 30, and Dec. 14 feature Loreto, site of the first Jesuit mission in 1697; scenic cruising past the Sierra de la Giganta; Pichilingue (La Paz); and Cabo San Lucas. The Statendam also sails this itinerary on May 2.
The 7-Day Mexican Riviera Cruises depart San Diego on Oct. 26, Nov. 9 and 23, and Dec. 7. They feature calls at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Double occupancy cruise fares start at just $819 to $899 [CAN $1,239 to $1,359], including port charges, with the Early Booking discount of 52 to 57 percent.
The Ryndam's three 10-day cruises feature both the Sea of Cortez and Mexican Riviera. They depart San Diego April 24, May 4 and Oct. 9 for Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, then cruise the Sea of Cortez, calling at Pichilingue (La Paz); Santa Rosalia, boasting a church designed by Gustave Eiffel of Eiffel Tower fame; Loreto; and Cabo San Lucas.
Statendam Features Most 10-Day Sailings
The 1,266-passenger Statendam's schedule of Mexico sailings remains unchanged. The Ryndam's sister ship offers the most 10-day cruises: four in winter/spring 2002 - Jan. 7, Feb. 16, March 13 and April 7 - and three in the fall - Oct. 21, Nov. 15 and Dec. 10. All sail the Mexican Riviera, calling at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Acapulco, Zihuatanejo (Ixtapa tour option) and Puerto Vallarta. Cruise-only fares for all 10-day sailings start at just $1,189 [CAN$1,799] per person, double occupancy, including port charges and discount of 58 percent.
Several cruises can be extended by adding another cruise segment. For example, a seven-day Statendam cruise can be extended to 10 days by adding a three-day West Coast cruise segment to Vancouver, B.C., from San Diego on May 2. Guests also may extend the Ryndam's 10-day cruise, departing May 4, to 13 days by adding a similar three-day cruise segment to Vancouver or vice-versa on Oct. 6.
Holland America's Home City Air program offers convenient, affordable round-trip flights between major U.S. and Canadian gateways and San Diego. Round-trip motorcoach or Amtrak train service is available from several locations in Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties. Cost is just $35 per person.
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. 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
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES OFFERING SPECIAL DISCOUNTS TO AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES PASSENGERS
MIAMI (10/24/01) - Carnival Cruise Lines is offering special discounts to people who were booked on cruises aboard the vessels of American Classic Voyages (AMCV), which recently filed for bankruptcy. For select cruises departing between now and February 11, 2002, Carnival is providing deeply discounted rates on a "best available stateroom" basis, meaning displaced AMCV guests will receive the best type of accommodation available at the time of booking, as defined below:
* Three-day Bahamas cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral: Interior
stateroom: $149 per person; Ocean view stateroom: $199 per person.
* Four-day cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, to the western Caribbean from Tampa, Galveston, Miami, and to Baja Mexico from Los Angeles: Interior stateroom: $199 per person; Ocean view stateroom: $249 per person.
* Five-day western Caribbean cruises from Miami, Tampa and Galveston: Interior stateroom: $249 per person; Ocean view stateroom $299 per person.
* Seven-day cruises to the Caribbean from Miami, Tampa, New Orleans and San Juan and to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles: Interior stateroom $399 per person; Ocean view: $449 per person; Balcony stateroom (where applicable) $499 per person.
* 12-day Hawaii Cruises (April 21 and May 3, 2002): Interior stateroom $699 per person; Ocean view $749 per person; Balcony stateroom $799 per person.
* 17-day Panama Canal cruise (April 4, 2002): Interior stateroom $699 per person; Ocean view $749; Balcony stateroom $799 per person.
* Carnival is also offering special rates on Christmas and New Year's cruises on a variety of ships and itineraries.
Cruises must be booked by Nov. 2, 2001, to qualify for the special "best available stateroom" offer. Special rates for third/fourth guests in a cabin are also available. Callers should request fare code CPAH at time of reservation. Proof of reservation/confirmation from American Classic Voyages is required. Suites are not included in this special offer, which is capacity controlled and not combinable with any other discount or promotional offer. Valid on new, individual bookings only. Certain other restrictions may apply. For additional information, call 1-800-327-9501. Source: Carnival Cruise Line
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL AND CELEBRITY CRUISES EXPAND MOTORCOACH PROGRAM FOR CRUISE GUESTS
MIAMI, FL - Oct 23, 2001 -- Florida, Texas and California residents looking for a convenient and economical way of getting to and from cruise ports can take advantage of expanded motorcoach service by Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises.
Altogether, 31 cities in Florida now have pickup locations for guests sailing from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, and Tampa. In Texas, motorcoaches can take cruise vacationers from Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio to and from Galveston. Service also is available in Orange County, California, for cruises from Los Angeles. In all instances, roundtrip fares are only $25 per person.
Traveling in air-conditioned motorcoaches, passengers eliminate parking fees at cruise ports. Nor are there problems with traffic jams or finding the way to the cruise terminal. Baggage handling also is simplified. After luggage is matched to guests at curbside of the terminal, the bags are whisked away to be screened for security and delivered to the staterooms.
"We're finding that more and more guests are choosing the convenience of motorcoaches to reach the ports," Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Royal Caribbean International. "We've chosen shuttle stops that are easily accessible to our cruise guests.
There are 24 Florida cities with service to ships sailing from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. A few examples include Jacksonville, Orlando, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Ocala, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, Fort Pierce, West Palm Beach, and Boca Raton. Guests are picked up between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. and reach port in one to six hours, depending on the distance. Twenty cities, including Tampa, Leesburg, and Stuart, offer service to Port Canaveral, where Sovereign of the Seas embarks on three- and four-night Bahamas cruises. For ships sailing from Tampa, there is motorcoach service from 28 cities, including Naples, Fort Myers, and Palm Coast.
In summer 2002, motorcoach service for Bermuda sailings from New York by Nordic Empress, Horizon and Zenith will be offered in 29 cities in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast for $45 roundtrip. A sampling includes Hartford, CT; Scranton, PA; Baltimore, MD; Albany, NY; Springfield, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; Boston, Philadelphia and Washington.
Service to Seattle for $35 roundtrip per person has been arranged from 12 cities in the state of Washington, where Radiance of the Seas offers spring and late-summer cruises.
For information on motorcoach service, guests and travel agents may call Royal Caribbean International (800-327-6700) or Celebrity Cruises (800-437-3111).
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. Source: RCI
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI--Oct. 22, 2001--Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has scheduled a conference call with analysts for 10 a.m. eastern time, Tuesday, October 30, 2001, to discuss the company's third quarter financial results. The call can be listened to by all interested parties at the company's investor relations web site, www.rclinvestor.com. Visual aids relating to the call will also be available at the web site. A replay of the webcast will be available at the same site for a month following the call.
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 7 under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates cruisetour vacations in Alaska utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com or www.celebritycruises.com. Source: RCI
Back to the top of the news list
Join Costa for Seven Nights in the Eastern Caribbean
10/22/01 - Sail the Eastern Caribbean aboard the new, highly-acclaimed CostaAtlantica on December 16, 2001 from Ft. Lauderdale to San Juan, St. Thomas/St. John, Catalina Island/Casa de Campo and Nassau from $499* for an inside stateroom; from $649* for an oceanview stateroom; from $749* for a veranda stateroom and Suites from $1,199*. 3rd & 4th passengers just $199* each.
*Offer available to residents of the US and Canada only. Rates are in US Dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and include port charges. Government fees of $4.75 per person additional. Due to the exceptional nature of this offer, payment is due within 24 hours of booking. Space allocated to this offer is limited, first come/first served basis. Capacity controlled. Certain restrictions apply. For full details on this offer consult your travel agent or call 1-800-GO-COSTA or visit our website at www.costacruises.com. Ask for promotional code EM-01. Ships Registry: Italy. Source: Costa Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
FIVE HOLLAND AMERICA SHIPS ACHIEVE US COAST GUARD'S QUALSHIP 21 DESIGNATION
Seattle, Oct 22, 2001 - Five Holland America Line vessels have earned the prestigious U.S. Coast Guard's (USCG)QUALSHIP 21 designation for on-board safety, environmental and health regulation compliance. The USCG program, which has only been in place since Jan. 1, 2001, has so far recognized only a handful of foreign-flagged cruise vessels sailing from U.S. ports.
The Holland America ships that have received the designation include ms Amsterdam, ms Maasdam, ms Noordam, ms Rotterdam and ms Zaandam. According to U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Commander L.L. Fagan, less than 10 percent of all foreign-flagged ships operating in the United States have earned the designation placing Holland America's vessels in "an elite class."
QUALSHIP 21 is a new marine safety initiative of the Coast Guard that identifies high-quality foreign-flagged ships and provides incentives and recognition to vessels to encourage quality operations. Passenger ships receiving the designation receive a QUALSHIP 21 certificate from the Coast Guard, which currently is working with the American Association of Port Authorities to identify seaports that may be willing to provide discounted port fees for QUALSHIP 21 vessels in the future.
"To have five Holland America ships recognized this early in the administration of the QUALSHIP 21 program is indeed an honor," said Stein Kruse, senior vice president, fleet operations, Holland America Line. "It is a reflection of the commitment of our crews, officers and shoreside staff to set the standards for safe, secure high-quality marine operations in the cruise industry."
Among the qualifications for the certification, a passenger vessel must be non-U.S. flagged, have no substandard vessel detentions in the United States within the past 36 months and have a successful U.S. Port State Control examination within the previous 12 months. In addition to receiving certificate designating a ship's achievement, the cruise line also has its QUALSHIP 21 vessels listed on the U.S. Coast Guard's Port State Control Web site at www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/psc/psc.htm.
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.
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
ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL AND CELEBRITY CRUISES MAKE SPECIAL OFFER TO AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES GUESTS
MIAMI - Oct 22, 2001 - Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have implemented a special onboard credit program for guests previously booked with American Classic Voyages.
Effective immediately, an onboard credit will be given to every guest previously booked for a future sailing with American Classic Voyages who books a cruise on Royal Caribbean or Celebrity by November 23, 2001. Onboard credit amounts are applicable on all sailings through April 30, 2002, as well as Hawaii sailings in May 2002.
Onboard credits will be made on a per-guest basis for first and second guests only. In order to be eligible, participants must fax their confirmed American Classic Voyages booking to 1-800-722-5329. Onboard credit amounts vary by cruise length, as follows:
Two through five nights $25 per first and second guest
Six through nine nights $50 per first and second guest
Ten nights or more $75 per first and second guest
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. Source: RCI
Back to the top of the news list
Complimentary Air - Free economy class air from 82 North American gateways plus 50% savings on second-guest fares is available on three Caribbean voyages this December.
· Seven Seas Navigator, December 17, 11-night Christmas Cards from the Canal cruise, from Ft. Lauderdale to Puerto Caldera, calling at Key West, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel (overnight), Grand Cayman, and Puerto Limón (Costa Rica), before transiting the Panama Canal and visiting Gatún Yacht Club with Christmas Day at sea. Per person prices from $3,821 include 50% off second-guest fares with free economy air.
· Radisson Diamond, December 21, nine-night Tracing the Path of Balboa Through the Panama Canal cruise from Puerto Caldera to San Juan, calling at San Blas Islands, Aruba, Curacao and St. Thomas with Christmas Day at sea. Per person prices from $3,371 include 50% off second-guest fares and free air.
· Radisson Diamond, December 30, nine-night A New Years Caribbean Celebration voyage, round-trip from San Juan, featuring visits to St. Maarten, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts, St. Barts, St. Thomas and Virgin Gorda with New Year's Day at sea. Per person prices from $3,371 include 50% off second-guest fares and free air.
More Tropical Holiday Voyages - Romantic holidays await Seven Seas Mariner guests who can opt to enjoy a relaxing Christmas morning breakfast on their own private balconies or welcome in the New Year under Costa Ricas starry sky.
· Seven Seas Mariner, December 17, ten-night Goombay Gifts of the Season cruise, round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale, calling at Nassau, San Juan, St. Maarten, Dominica (Leeward Islands), Bridgetown (Barbados), and St. Johns (Antigua) with Christmas Day at sea. Per person prices from $3,821 include 50% off second-guest fares. Low-cost air add-ons available.
· Seven Seas Mariner, December 27, 12-night Divining Secrets of Ancient Andean Empires cruise, Ft. Lauderdale to Callao (Lima, overnight), calling at Grand Cayman, Port Antonio (Jamaica), Puerto Limón (Costa Rica), Manta (Ecuador), Salaverry (Peru) with a transit of the Panama Canal, visit to Gatún Yacht Club and New Year's Eve Day at sea. Per person prices from $3,971 include 50% off second-guest fares. Low-cost air add-ons available.
Two-For-One - Both the Seven Seas Navigator and the Radisson Diamond will offer special two-for-one fares on a pair of January 2002 voyages.
· Seven Seas Navigator, January 6, 2002, 14-night Coast to Coast Through the Panama Canal cruise, from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles calling at Grand Cayman, San Andres Island (Colombia), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Huatulco, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), and San Diego. Two-for-one prices from $3,648 per person. Low-cost air add-ons available.
· Radisson Diamond, January 8, 2002, five-night Dutch Treats in the Antilles voyage, from San Juan to Aruba, calling at St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Curacao with two-for-one prices from $1,198 per person. Low-cost air add-ons available.
Guests who secure their deposits with a credit card at the time of their booking will also receive shipboard credits of $200 per stateroom/suite. Shipboard credits may be used for boutique purchases, spa treatments, shore excursions, etc.
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises was voted Best Small Cruise Line by the readers of Travel + Leisure in the magazines 2001 Worlds Best Awards.
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises is part of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide, one of the world's major hospitality services companies including over 1,515 hotels, resorts, restaurants and cruise ships operating in 79 countries plus port destinations around the world. Carlson Hospitality Worldwide is one of the major operating groups of Carlson Companies, Inc., a $31 billion company.
For further information, contact Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, 600 Corporate Drive, Suite 410, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334; or toll-free 800-477-7500; for brochures and reservation information toll-free 800-285-1835; or visit the Web site: www.rssc.com. To make reservations contact your travel professional. Source: Radisson Seven Seas Cruises
Back to the top of the news list
HOLLAND AMERICA LINE OFFERS CRUISE OPPORTUNITIES TO GUESTS SCHEDULED TO SAIL WITH AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES
Seattle, Oct. 22, 2001 - Holland America Line is offering several Holland America and Windstar cruise opportunities to travelers previously scheduled to sail with any of the lines operated by American Classic Voyages Inc. (ACV).
"We want to help guests who had planned to sail with American Classic Voyages continue with their vacation plans," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Especially in today's unsettled environment, we want to offer these guests a sense of certainty that they will still be able to enjoy a relaxing cruise vacation with Holland America Line, the leader in premium cruising."
Holland America is offering three options for passengers with deposited or full payment on ACV cruise lines, including American Classic Voyages, American Hawaii Cruises, Delta Queen Cruises and United States Line. Proof of booking with an ACV cruise line is required. Cruise-only fares quoted are per person, double occupancy, and include port charges. Fares are commissionable to travel agents.
Option 1 - For guests scheduled to sail with an ACV cruise line before Dec. 21, Holland America is offering:
* Seven-day Caribbean cruises departing Oct. 21-Dec. 15 from just $359
[CAN $532].
* 10-day Caribbean cruises departing Oct. 23-Dec. 10 or 10-day Mexico
cruises departing Oct. 24 and Dec. 3 and13 from just $479 [CAN $717].
Option 2 - For guests scheduled to sail with an ACV cruise line between Dec. 22 and Dec. 29, Holland America Line is offering:
* Seven-day Eastern or Western Caribbean cruises departing from Dec. 20-30 from just $600 [CAN $899].
* 10- or 14-day Southern Caribbean cruises departing on Dec. 22 or 23 from just $1,100 [CAN $1,639].
* A 12-day Panama Canal cruise (12/23), a 15-day Hawaii cruise (12/23) or a 17-day South America cruise (12/18), with fares starting at just $1,000 [CAN $1,499].
* An 11-day Wind Surf cruise from Barbados departing Dec. 16 from just $1,000 [CAN $1,449].
Option 3 -- For guests scheduled to sail with an ACV cruise line after Jan. 4, 2002, Holland America Line is offering the following 2002 cruises:
* 7-, 10- and 14-day Caribbean cruises, with fares starting at just $399 [CAN $582].
* 7- or 10-day Mexico cruises, with fares starting at just $389 [CAN $568].
* 15-day Hawaii cruises, with fares starting at just $1,699 [CAN $2,458].
* 7-, 9- and 10-day Canada/New England Cruises, with fares starting at just $699 [CAN $1,018].
Affordable air arrangements are available through the Holland America's 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. Travel agents have been faxed details of Holland America offers for ACV passengers.
About Holland America Line
Holland America's premium cruises feature spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, casino, first-rate entertainment, duty-free on-board shops, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, the "Passport to Fitness" activity program and complete fitness center, coupled with popular "tipping not required" and "cashless" ship policies. 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. 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.
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 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
WHILE RADISSON SEVEN SEAS 2002 BOOKINGS REMAIN STRONG, LINE RESPONDS TO A CHANGED WORLD WITH ITINERARY & OTHER CHANGES
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL., Oct 2001 Despite the negative impact the tragic events of September 11 have had on the cruise industry, 2002 bookings for Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, the worlds largest luxury line based on berths, have held strong. Nonetheless, itinerary and other changes have been made in response to world events and the line is evaluating its scheduled itineraries in Europe for 2002.
Mark Conroy, president and CEO of Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, stressed that the line retains great strengths as a worldwide cruise operator benefiting from the resources and commitment of our parent company, the Carlson Companies, which generated $31 billion in system-wide revenues last year. While the cruise line has experienced short-term, fourth-quarter cancellations, primarily in the Mediterranean, he said, they have come late in the year, thus the overall impact on total sales is expected to be about 5 percent for 2001. Looking forward to 2002, our future bookings are strong and continue to hold. The line continues to receive reservations for winter 2001/2002 and beyond, though the pace of future bookings has slowed since September 11, he added.
Song of Flower Cruises Cancelled in Asia
Indeed, Conroy called the world a very different place since September 11. A variety of circumstances including a reduction in demand for Middle East positioning cruises has created a situation in which it is no longer feasible for us to operate Song of Flower on its scheduled cruises through the Red Sea or to position her in Asia, Conroy noted. Accordingly, in spite of relatively strong Asia bookings, the line has cancelled all Song of Flower cruises scheduled to operate from October 20, 2001 through April 22, 2002. Carrying a maximum of 180 guests, m/s Song of Flower is the smallest vessel in the fleet, bearing the smallest impact on revenues. Current plans call for Song of Flower to resume service on May 2, 2002, when she is scheduled to begin her Europe season.
Guests who had been booked on one of Song of Flowers cancelled Asia cruises have been offered a multitude of alternative cruises, among them a March 7 Hong Kong to Singapore or March 19 Singapore to Cape Town voyage on the 490-guest m/s Seven Seas Navigator. In addition, they will receive a $1,000 per person Future Cruise Credit which may be used on any Radisson Seven Seas cruise including aboard the new Seven Seas Voyager, scheduled to debut in April 2003.
World Cruise Goes on Aboard Seven Seas Navigator
Currently, Radisson Seven Seas has no plans to cancel any other cruises, although some itineraries have been adjusted. For instance, Venice, Italy, has been substituted for Alexandria, Egypt, on two voyages in Europe on the Seven Seas Navigator this October and November (Nice to Venice on October 31; Venice to Barcelona on November 11, 2001). Overnights in Venice have been added to enhance both itineraries with the October 31 voyage adding a full days visit to Rhodes, Greece, and the November 11 voyage featuring new calls along the Dalmatian Coast.
In addition, the lines first-ever World Cruise (a five-segment, 105-night voyage departing Los Angeles on January 20, 2002, aboard the Seven Seas Navigator) has been re-routed to enhance the diversity and appeal of its ports of call. Instead of transiting the Middle East on her third segment, the all-suite luxury cruise ship will now sail south from India to the Seychelles and Madagascar, with first-time calls in South Africa including Richards Bay (Durban) and Cape Town and rounding the Cape of Good Hope to Namibia and St. Helena before crossing the Atlantic to Rio de Janeiro and other South American and Caribbean ports.
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises other ships, the 700-guest m/s Seven Seas Mariner, the 350-guest ssc Radisson Diamond and the 320-guest m/s Paul Gauguin, as well as the 184-guest m/s Hanseatic which it markets in Antarctica each winter, continue to operate as previously scheduled. The company has attractive offers in the marketplace on selected fall Polynesia, Caribbean and Panama Canal/Costa Rica voyages.
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises is part of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide, one of the world's major hospitality services companies including over 1,515 hotels, resorts, restaurants and cruise ships operating in 79 countries plus port destinations around the world. Carlson Hospitality Worldwide is one of the major operating groups of Carlson Companies, Inc., a $31 billion company.
For further information, contact Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, 600 Corporate Drive, Suite 410, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334; or toll-free 800-477-7500; for brochures and reservation information toll-free 800-285-1835; or visit the Web site: www.rssc.com. To make reservations contact your travel professional. Source: RSSC
Back to the top of the news list
NEW YORK, Oct. 22 -- Parents looking for a memorable, quality-time vacation for the entire family need to look no further than a cruise. Cruise lines feature programs designed to accommodate every age group in a safe, supervised environment.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) estimates that some 500,000 children cruise each year and some cruise lines report increases of 200 percent since just half a decade ago.
While a few lines cater largely to an adult clientele, the majority of cruise lines actively encourage family togetherness. Cruising has become a family affair, and today's cruise ships are exceeding the high expectations of young passengers and their families with special facilities, events, programs, services, even dining options for all young travelers, from infants to teens. As further incentive, a number of cruise lines offer greatly reduced fares, in some cases free passage, for kids traveling with a family.
Cruise lines have created complex programs of age-appropriate activities, organized and supervised by trained counselors, many of whom have degrees in education or recreation.
There are kids' clubhouses and daily supervised activities, entertainment, educational and environmental programs (often focusing on local cultures such as those of Hawaii or Alaska); children's shore excursions; instruction in such skills as mime or clowning; pizza parties, children's menus and separate dining experiences for youngsters; nurseries and babysitting services for tiny tots; computer labs and video games; and even children's afternoon tea.
Among the latest trends is attention paid to teenagers (long the most difficult age group for parents and cruise lines alike to please), with special clubs, dances and other suitable programs now available.
The goal of all children's facilities and activities onboard today's cruise ships is to create a memorable, quality-time experience for entire families -- parents can actually enjoy their own vacation, knowing the kids are safe, busy and happy.
For more information about the latest trends in cruise vacations, contact one of nearly 20,000 CLIA-affiliated travel agencies across the U.S. and Canada, or visit CLIA's website at www.cruising.org. SOURCE: Cruise Lines International Association
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI, Oct. 19 - Carnival Corporation announced today the pricing of a $400 million gross proceeds 20-year zero-coupon convertible note offering. The notes are convertible into Carnival Corporation common stock if the market price of the shares reaches specified thresholds. Each note has a yield to maturity of 3.75 percent and is convertible into 16.5964 shares of Carnival Corporation common stock, representing an initial conversion premium of 35 percent to the closing stock price of $21.23 on Oct. 18, 2001.
In connection with the offering, Carnival Corporation has granted to the placement agent an over-allotment option to purchase up to an additional $100 million gross proceeds of the zero-coupon convertible notes. The offering is expected to close on Oct. 24, 2001.
Net proceeds from this offering will be used by the company to repay approximately $160 million of existing bank indebtedness maturing in November 2001 and toward the approximate $300 million final payment of Carnival Cruise Lines' new cruise ship, Carnival Pride, scheduled to be delivered in December 2001. Any remaining net proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
The securities offered will not be registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. 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.
Additional information can be obtained via Carnival Corporation's Web site at www.carnivalcorp.com. SOURCE: Carnival Corporation
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI, Oct. 19 - American Classic Voyages Inc., the largest U.S.-flag cruise company, today announced that it has filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in Wilmington, Del.
The company will cease operations for its Hawaii vessels, the ms Patriot and the ss Independence, tomorrow at the completion of their current cruises. Four of the company's five Delta Queen vessels, including the American Queen, the Mississippi Queen, the Columbia Queen and the Cape May Light, also will cease operations at the completion of each vessel's current cruise over the next three days. The Delta Queen steamboat, the company's National Historic Landmark flagship, will continue to operate its scheduled future voyages.
In addition, AMCV said it intends to work with Northrop Grumman Corporation and the U.S. Maritime Administration with the goal to maintain construction on the two 1,900-passenger Project America ships, the largest cruise ships to be built in America in nearly 50 years.
"The tragic events of September 11 dealt a devastating blow to our business that has made it impossible to continue our full operations,'' said Phil Calian, CEO of American Classic Voyages. "We will continue to operate on a much reduced scale to focus on our Mississippi River cruises, which have been the historic core of our company.''
In August, the company had reported increasing per diems and occupancy on its Hawaii ships, profitable performance on its Delta Queen vessels and that it had successfully reached an agreement with Northrop Grumman on the continuation of construction of the Project America cruise ships. In the four weeks subsequent to the September 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington D.C., the company said its gross bookings declined 50%, its cancellations increased 30% and it faced a weakened cash position with no prospects for additional capital at this time.
"As a result of the September 11 attacks, the Chapter 11 filing became the only alternative to us to preserve our present cash supply, improve our balance sheet and minimize the impact, as much as we are able, on affected passengers and other stakeholders,'' Calian said. "We are grateful to our customers for their support and we are doing the best we can to assist those affected by this decision.''
The company has established a customer information hotline (800-856-9904) and additional information is available on the company's Web site at www.amcv.com. Individuals with reservations on future American Classic cruises other than the Delta Queen steamboat should contact their travel agent, their travel insurance company or their credit card company for information about obtaining a refund. SOURCE: American Classic Voyages Inc.
Back to the top of the news list
HOLLAND AMERICA LINE ANNOUNCES NOV. 15, 2002, AS OFFICIAL DELIVERY DATE OF MS ZUIDERDAM
Seattle, Oct. 19, 2001 - Holland America Line today announced an agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri-Cantieri Navali Italiani S.p.A. to deliver the new ms Zuiderdam on Nov. 15, 2002. The 85,000-ton Zuiderdam is under construction at Fincantieri's Marghera yard.
"The Zuiderdam is the first of our Vista series, a totally new class of ships that are the most advanced and most luxurious ships ever built," said A. Kirk Lanterman, chairman and CEO. "With the Zuiderdam we will introduce many innovations and new features." Lanterman noted that the yard agreed to defer delivery by 45 days and said that he "appreciated Fincantieri's cooperation in working with us to identify the best possible delivery date
to meet our needs."
Corrado Antonini, chairman of Fincantieri, said, "We enjoy a very close and long-standing relationship with Holland America and are pleased we are able to accommodate them. The Zuiderdam is our ninth Holland America vessel in just the past eight years and exemplifies the pinnacle of Italian shipbuilding today. We're confident Fincantieri's fine craftsmen are delivering another truly spectacular vessel."
Based on the official delivery date, the Zuiderdam's maiden voyage will depart Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 14, 2002, for seven-day Caribbean cruise. Discussions are ongoing regarding future delivery dates. The Zuiderdam, named for the southern point of the compass, is the first of five new Vista series ships that will allow Holland America to meet the future requirements of its discriminating guests by providing extensive on-board amenities and a larger percentage of verandah staterooms than ever before. The Zuiderdam and her sister ships feature innovative 10-deck-high "exterior elevators" on both sides of the vessel, providing guests with panoramic sea views. The ships also offer a wide range of spacious accommodation categories. Fully 85 percent of the staterooms feature an ocean view, with 80 percent of those offering private verandahs.
The new vessels' propulsion system includes a full-scale diesel-electric power plant, backed up by a gas turbine as an additional power source, giving the vessel the capability to operate on either diesel or gas turbine power. The ships also will use the Azipod propulsion system, allowing for greater maneuverability, enhanced operating efficiencies and environmental benefits.
The 951-foot-long ships build upon the hallmarks of the Holland America brand, incorporating multi-million-dollar art collections and numerous dining options, from elegant full-service meals to casual Lido Restaurant service. The ships will continue other trademark features of Holland America ships, including the Explorers Lounge, Ocean Bar, an exterior covered promenade deck encircling the entire ship, a large Lido pool with a retractable dome, and Holland America's signature "Crow's Nest" observation lounge.
The ship will offer a new "cabaret-style" show lounge, complementing a new three-deck main show lounge. Other new features include a disco, a casual "round-the-clock" café, an Internet cafe, the largest spa facilities in the fleet, Internet/e-mail data ports in all staterooms, an extensive Club HAL children's facility with inside and outside play areas, a concierge lounge for the exclusive use of Penthouse and Deluxe Verandah Suite guests and two interior promenade decks.
About Holland America Line
Holland America Line is a unit of Carnival Corporation. 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 and complete fitness center, coupled with popular "tipping not required" and "cashless" ship policies. 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. 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: HAL
Back to the top of the news list
CARNIVAL CORPORATION IN DISCUSSIONS WITH AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES OVER CRUISE SHIP MORTGAGE
MIAMI (10/19/01) - Carnival Corporation announced today that as a result of American Classic Voyages' decision to cease its operations in Hawaii, it is in discussions with American Classic's management to determine the future status of the cruise ship MS Patriot on which a Carnival subsidiary holds an approximate $80 million first preferred ship mortgage.
Carnival said it had received assurances from American Classic that all steps would be taken to enable passengers and crew to disembark the ship without difficulty and, further, that crew members would be paid their wages and have their travel costs covered to return home. Carnival personnel will be working with American Classic shore-based employees in Hawaii to address issues that may arise in securing and laying up the ship pending its eventual disposition.
An American Classic Voyages' subsidiary purchased the 1,212-passenger, former Nieuw Amsterdam from Carnival's Holland America Line unit in October 2000 for approximately $114.5 million. Carnival and American Classic had recently renegotiated the terms of the mortgage on the vessel to defer principal payments in the hope that doing so would enable the ship to continue operating. If returned, company officials have not determined how the vessel would be used.
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: PR Newswire
Back to the top of the news list
Lose the Wintertime Blues on QE2
Especially for Blues Enthusiasts
Don't miss this ultimate blues experience!
Book Now and take advantage of cruise only fares from $999.
- See more great blues concerts in 11 days than you ever thought possible.
- Share the music you love with others who are as passionate about the blues as you are.
- Get up close and personal with the performers with our Meet the Stars program.
- Take part in open blues jams with other passengers.
- Learn more about the music with informative blues workshops
Sail from Southampton, England to Fort Lauderdale, stopping at . . Cherbourg, France Funchal/Madeira Island, Portugal and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Lose your wintertime blues aboard QE2! Source: Cunard Line
Back to the top of the news list
HOLLAND AMERICA TO SAIL ROUNDTRIP FROM FORT LAUDERDALE ON SEVERAL 2002 PANAMA CANAL CRUISES
Seattle, Oct. 18, 2001 - Holland America's flagship ms Rotterdam will sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale to offer the line's popular 10-day Panama Canal cruises in 2002. Twelve new departures have been created to provide simplified, less expensive air connections and the opportunity to reach the new single city Panama Canal cruise gateway by car, train or motorcoach with ease.
"Holland America wants to provide options for travelers among our most popular itineraries," said David Giersdorf, senior vice president of marketing and sales. "We know this is a time when not everyone is comfortable with open jaw air arrangements or difficult schedules. Using Fort Lauderdale as an embarkation and debarkation port will permit us to appeal to our core travelers and continue to offer an exciting, in-depth itinerary of one of history's greatest modern achievements."
A leading operator of Panama Canal cruises, Holland America will offer a total of 23 cruises in 2002 aboard five of its luxury liners-the Rotterdam, ms Veendam, ms Volendam, ms Zaandam, and ms Amsterdam. The cruises range from 10 to 21 days in length, depart from October through May, and include an exceptionally wide variety of ports and itineraries on either side of the Canal.
Rotterdam Sailings
On the new roundtrip itinerary, the 1,316-passenger Rotterdam visits Puerto Limón, Costa Rica; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Cartagena, Colombia; Half Moon Cay, Bahamas; and features a one-day foray into the Panama Canal half way to Gatun Lake. Special highlights on the new itinerary includes tour options to explore the rain forest or enjoy a sailboat tour at Gatun Lake. In Costa Rica, passengers can enjoy river rafting or tour San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica.
Passengers also spend a day at Holland America'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. New roundtrip departure dates are Jan. 26; Feb. 5, 15 and 24; March 7, 17 and 27; April 6; Nov. 10, 20 and 30; and Dec. 10, 2002.
The Rotterdam also will offer two 10-day sailings between Ft. Lauderdale and Puerto Caldera, each highlighted by a nine-hour, daylight transit through this engineering marvel. Each cruise will visit Half Moon Cay, St. Thomas/St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Willemstad, Curacao on the Caribbean side, transit the Panama Canal, cruise Costa Rica's scenic Golfo Dulce and visit San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, on the Pacific side. Departure dates are Jan. 6 and 16, 2002.
Special 16-day Amsterdam Sailing
The Amsterdam will offer a special 16-day Canal cruise just prior to its annual Grand World Voyage, departing Jan. 4 from Ft. Lauderdale and arriving in Los Angeles. Guests enjoy the unusual opportunity to begin and end the cruise in two U.S. ports, making air travel arrangements easier and more economical. The Amsterdam's itinerary features George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Panama Canal; scenic cruising of Golfo Dulce; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Santa Cruz Huatulco, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Spring and Fall Cruises Transit the Canal
Guests have many other choices for spring and fall Panama Canal transits as ships sail between the Caribbean winter market and the summer Alaska market. Several gateways may be chosen with options from New York to Acupulco, Fort Lauderdale to Vancouver, Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, Vancouver to Tampa Bay, Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Seattle to Port Canaveral and possibilities to board or disembark in such ports as Puerto Vallarta; Astoria, Oregon; San Diego; San Francisco; or Los Angeles depending upon the cruise date. Ranging from 10 to 21 days, eight departures all combine a full-day transit of the Panama Canal with Caribbean, Mexican and Pacific Coast ports of call.
All of the itineraries beckon with the Caribbean flavors of island ports such as St. Thomas and Grand Cayman; the primitive life of the Cuna Indians on the San Blas Islands; and the sun-soaked ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Santa Cruz Huatulco on the Mexican Riviera. Spring and fall full Panama Canal cruise dates are April 30 and Oct. 1 aboard the Amsterdam; April 13 and Oct. 19 aboard the Zaandam; April 15 and Nov. 26 aboard the Volendam; and May 1 and Oct. 6 aboard the Veendam. Flagship Forum Lectures and Social Hosts Panama Canal cruises include complimentary Flagship Forum lectures featuring experts in the fields of history, culture, geology and ecology and a local expert to join the ship as it enters the famous passageway and provide guests with fascinating narration on the canal's history, development and operation. Cruises also have Holland America's gentlemen hosts, who enhance single female guests' enjoyment of the many daytime activities and evening entertainment offered shipboard.
Prices for Panama Canal cruises start at US$1,099 per person, double occupancy, including port charges for promotional "30-Day Best Ever Fares" booked by November 16, 2001. Otherwise, cruise fares start at US$1,599 per person. Government taxes are extra and start at US$168.25 per person, depending upon length of itinerary.
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. 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: HAL
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTL & CELEBRITY CRUISES ENHANCE THEIR TRAVEL AGENT WEBSITE
MIAMI - Oct 18, 2001 - Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises today announced enhancements to their travel agent website that make it easier, faster and more profitable to use.
The enhancements, which are available now, were made to CruisingPower.com, the travel agent website shared by the two cruise brands. The upgrades are designed to help travel agents use the website more efficiently. They include a shorter and more simplified registration process; a system to quickly track the status of a customer's cruise documents online; a single web location to easily reach all the cruise lines' automated tools; and a new online registration process for travel agents to enroll in the cruise lines' Partner Booking Link program, which allows travel agents to earn their full commissions when customers book on the cruise lines' websites.
"We are confident that our new enhancements to CruisingPower.com will make it even easier for travel agents to work with Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises," said Barbara Shrut, vice president of Customer Loyalty for the two brands. "Our goal is to provide the travel agent community with the best travel agent tools and the most user-friendly website possible."
Travel agents now can register their agency to use CruisingPower.com through a fast and easy online process. They will immediately receive an online confirmation with their user IDs and passwords, giving them instant access to the secure website. Agencies may register by simply visiting the CruisingPower.com website and clicking on "New Account."
With the website's new "Guest Document Status" tool, travel agents can quickly locate the current printing or mailing status of their customer's cruise documents, along with valuable information about Royal Caribbean and Celebrity's document mailing parameters and policies. From the CruisingPower.com homepage, agents need only click on "Guest Documents." Travel agents wanting to book a Royal Caribbean or Celebrity cruise using the lines' online booking engine, CruiseMatch2000.com, now will automatically be brought to the CruisingPower.com website. Travel agents may use their existing IDs and passwords for CruiseMatch2000.com to log on to CruisingPower.com. This consolidates the number of websites that travel agents need to visit and presents them with one location that holds the full array of online tools that Royal Caribbean and Celebrity provide to assist in researching and booking cruises.
Travel agents also can use Cruisingpower.com to enroll in the companies' Partner Booking Link, an online cruise selling program. Partner Booking Link allows travel agents to connect their customers who visit the agency's website to either royalcaribbean.com or celebritycruises.com. Should the customer make a booking on either of the cruise lines' websites, that booking is immediately directed and credited to the agency. This allows the agency to earn full commissions on all such sailed bookings. The new Partner Booking Link enrollment tool allows agents to enroll in as little as three minutes. As soon as they complete the process, their account is active and they can begin installing the Royal Caribbean and Celebrity links on their website.
Travel agents with questions regarding the new enhancements to CruisingPower.com may call Royal Caribbean and Celebrity's Automation Support Representatives at 1-800-443-5789, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. through 8 p.m. (ET). International travel partners should contact their Royal Caribbean and Celebrity representatives directly.
CruisingPower.com is a free, travel-agent-only website that offers agencies greater convenience, increased productivity, improved creditability and lower transaction costs.
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. Source: RCI
Back to the top of the news list
Two-for-One Offering on Orient Lines
Oct. 18, 2001 - 2-for-1, 2-for-1, 2-for-1, 2-for-1, 2-for-1! Some news is so good it bears repeating! You're invited to join one of these cruise vacations from Orient Lines - and bring a companion FREE.
Ranging from 16 to 20 days, these are two of our best itineraries. Whether your interests are toucans or tango, polished Latin cities or Patagonian wilderness, you'll find fascination here - along with savings that make it unthinkable to stay at home.
2-for-1 on The Panama Canal
16-day cruise aboard the Crown Odyssey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. Explore the scenic Baja Peninsula, sparkling Acapulco and species-rich Costa Rica. Then cruise a technological marvel, the Panama Canal, to colonial Cartagena and Key West. All from just $3,195-for two! AIR BONUS: $99 air from Miami and Los Angeles; $645 from Honolulu and $199 from all other gateways listed in our brochure. Departs the USA March 15, 2002.
2-for-1 on Argentina, Chile & Patagonia
A 20-day voyage aboard the Marco Polo sailing from Santiago, Chile to Buenos Aires, Argentina includes 2-night hotel stays and city tours in both great cities, plus sightseeing in two Falkland Islands ports, a navigation of the Beagle Channel, majestic Chilean fjordlands and much more. All from just $3,750 per couple. Timed for South America's summer: Departs the USA February 23, 2002.
Please call your travel agent or 1-800-333-7300 for details. These
special offers are more fully described online at www.orientlines.com. But book soon: our ships are mid-sized, ideal for cruising - but space is limited. Call your travel agent or Orient Lines at 1-800-333-7300 for more information.
Also coming any day now to our website: Orient Lines' ALL-NEW Europe 2002 itineraries. Here's a sample: a voyage from Venice to the Riviera that includes a 3-night hotel stay in Paris! So start packing...
We look forward to welcoming you aboard! Source: Orient Lines
Back to the top of the news list
Costa Cruises' NEW NON-SMOKING POLICY
Oct. 18, 2001 - Costa, Europe's #1 cruise line, has announced a new non-smoking policy to take effect December 2001. Coinciding with the start of Costa's 2001/2002 Winter Caribbean program, each of Costa's eight ships will be completely smoke-free in the traditional (main) dining rooms and (main) show lounges. Smoking will still be permitted in designated areas in the ships' lounges, specialty restaurants and casual dining areas.
3RD & 4TH PASSENGERS SAIL FREE!
Book now and 3rd & 4th passengers sail for FREE when cruising with 2 adults paying applicable Andiamo Rates. Offer valid on selected Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings aboard the new CostaAtlantica or 5-star CostaVictoria. Cruises depart between December 2, 2001 and April 21, 2002. Book Now, space is limited. Rates from $699 including port charges.
Rates are in US dollars, cruise only, per person based on double occupancy, CostaVictoria. Port charges included. U.S. government fees additional. New bookings only. Offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Capacity controlled. Valid for US and Canadian residents only. Certain restrictions apply. Source: Costa
Back to the top of the news list
WORKS OF INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS ADORN INTERIORS OF NEW 88,500-TON CARNIVAL PRIDE
MIAMI (10/18/01) - From ornate glass vases and colorful paintings to huge bronze statues of Roman and Greek gods, the artwork to be featured aboard the Carnival Pride is an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary design that enhances the ship's dramatic interiors. Included among the diverse, multi-million-dollar collection are 70 decorative vases and candleholders by Czech glass artist Borek Sipek, who created similar works for the Carnival Pride's sister ship, Carnival Spirit.
For Carnival Pride, Sipek took a unique approach for his trademark glass pieces, incorporating Renaissance-inspired touches to create the ornate yet beautifully contemporary works, which are located in glass cases positioned in the ship's stair landings. The classic/contemporary design concept is also carried out in a series of bronze statues of the mythical figures Venus, Apollo and Poseidon created by Italian sculptor Katia Tasselli. These six-foot-high figures, each of which took several months to complete due to the complexity of their design, dramatically enhance the areas surrounding the pools that bear their names.
Adorning the Carnival Pride's stair landings and bulkheads are 27 original murals by British artist Andrea Tana, whose works can be seen on several Carnival vessels, as well as in private and public collections worldwide. Inspired by artists such as Gaugin and Matisse, Tana's panels have an almost luminous quality, achieved by mixing several different hues in sweeping patterns of blue, green, yellow, amber and other colors.
Featured in Carnival Pride's 1,062 staterooms are 15 motifs and 14 original oil paintings by American artist Janine Alter, whose works are typically inspired by her travels throughout the world. For Carnival Pride, Alter drew upon her recent visit to Provence, France, creating a series of warm, pastel-hued paintings inspired by the area's legendary countryside.
Rounding out the collection are the works of Italian artist Augusto Vignali, whose colorful motifs of stunning female figures enhance the Carnival Pride's passenger corridors.
The 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride is scheduled to debut Dec. 30, 2001, on a six-day western Caribbean voyage from Miami, followed by a three-day Bahamas cruise from Port Canaveral, Fla., departing Jan. 9, 2002.
Beginning Jan. 12, 2002, Carnival Pride will launch year-round seven-day service from Port Canaveral, becoming the newest and largest vessel to operate from that port. Eastern Caribbean cruises will feature the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay or Salt Cay, St. Thomas/St. John, and St. Maarten, while the western route will feature stops at Key West, Belize City, Progreso/Merida, and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel.
For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups). Information and reservations can also be obtained on-line at www.carnival.com. Source: Carnival Cruise Line
Back to the top of the news list
