Cruise Planner & Industry News from Cruise Diva
Discover the world of cruise travel

Subscribe Now! Cruise Diva's FREE Newsletter

Make the most of your cruise vacation with
 information from
CruiseDiva.com 


~ Site Map & Search
~ Cruise Lines
~ Articles & Advice
~ Cruise News
~ Planning Tips
~ Packing & Lists
~ Ports of Call

~ Cruise Reviews

~ HOT Tips Archive
~ About CruiseDiva
~ Cruise Links
~ Cruise Diary
~ CruiseDiva Home

Insure My Trip
Insure your cruise ~ Use the automated quote form to compare plans

Cruise Bon Voyage Gifts from Well Wishers -- CLICK HERE!!!

Bon Voyage gifts & more delivered worldwide by Well Wishers

Get cruise gear & more from
The Cruise Shop

 Cruising by the Book ~ Top Picks in 
Cruise Guidebooks

The favorite of serious cruise travelers:
Cruise Travel Magazine
Cruise Travel

Have a question or a review to submit?

Copyright © 1995-2002 
Linda Coffman


News from the world of cruising ~
October 15-31, 2002

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


Celebrity Cruises' Horizon to Set Sail From Tampa

MIAMI, Oct. 31 -- Celebrity Cruises' Horizon will make its first sailing from the Port of Tampa's new Cruise Terminal 3 this Sunday, November 3. Celebrity's 1,354-guest Horizon will embark on 23 seven-night Western Caribbean sailings from Tampa every Sunday from November 3, 2002, through April 6, 2003, calling on Key West, Florida; Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and Georgetown, Grand Cayman. Celebrity Cruises officials said that the line's return to Tampa was inspired by positive guest response to its first cruises from Tampa last year, on Horizon's sister ship, Zenith.

Horizon entered service in May 1990, and was rebuilt in October 1998, adding Celebrity's signature spaces, including the award-winning Elemis Spa, the intimate Michael's Club, and Cova Cafe Milano, the seagoing version of the stylish coffeehouse in the fashion district of Milan, Italy.

Horizon will cap its first season of Tampa-based cruises on April 13, 2003, embarking on a seven-night sailing to San Juan, with ports of call in Key West, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; Catalina Island, Dominican Republic; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten. Bookings are open for Horizon's round-trip cruises from Tampa, with fares beginning at $550 per-person, double occupancy.

The highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, Celebrity Cruises' nine-ship fleet is the youngest of any major cruise line. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebrity.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


CARNIVAL LEGEND EARNS PERFECT 100 SCORES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER 

MIAMI (10/31/02) - The new 88,500-ton Carnival Legend scored perfect 100s from both the U.S. Department of Public Health and Canadian Public Health Service during inspections in Baltimore and Halifax, Nova Scotia, earlier this month. The new 2,124-passenger vessel, which entered service in August 2002 and embarked on a six-day Bermuda cruise from Baltimore on Oct. 30, received perfect marks on all 42 items that comprise the U.S. Public Health Service's Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), as well as the 42 items that encompass the Health Canada's Cruise Ship Inspection Guide. The unannounced inspections, which are conducted twice each year and required for any cruise ship with an international itinerary calling on a U.S. or Canadian port, encompass a broad range of shipboard sanitation areas, including proper food handling, preparation and storage procedures and overall cleanliness of the galley and other shipboard areas. The potable water supply used in spas and pools is also examined. 

"While Carnival ships consistently receive high public health inspection marks, perfect scores are quite rare. For Carnival Legend to have earned perfect marks from both U.S. and Canadian authorities is a testament to exemplary efforts of Carnival's food and beverage employees," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. 

Carnival Legend, the third in the line's "Spirit-class" series, will follow its six-day cruise from Baltimore with an innovative eight-day program from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., beginning Nov. 10. Additional information and reservations on the Carnival Legend and the other 17 vessels within the "Fun Ship" fleet can be obtained by calling 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups). Information and reservations can also be obtained via the line's travel agent Internet portal at www.bookccl.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


From Rainforests to Palaces, Crystal Cruises Announces Its 2003 Collection Of Global Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel Options
Luxury Line Offers Its Most Comprehensive Selection Of Land Programs & Hotel Packages

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 31 -- The Carara Biological Reserve. The Palace of Versailles. The Terra Cotta Warriors. Paris' legendary Hotel de Crillon and New York City's new Ritz-Carlton, Central Park. From wildlife preserves and archeological treasures, to historical monuments and majestic hotels, in 2003 luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises delivers its most extensive collection of pre- and post-cruise travel options.

Guests sailing aboard the award-winning Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony -- and in July 2003 the new Crystal Serenity -- are invited to extend their cruise vacations with a rich selection of travel experiences designed to provide more insights into the world's most treasured destinations. Travelers may participate in a comprehensive escorted extended land program, or check into some of the world's premier hotels and script their own agenda.

"Our goal in creating these programs is to provide a seamless experience for our guests, one that allows them to see more of the world in the same comfort and style they enjoy aboard our ships," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing.

Enriching Land Experiences
The world's exotic cultures, magnificent monuments and intriguing people are revealed in a series of 11 carefully planned Extended Land Programs. The 2003 collection presents a full range of excursions blending adventure, exploration and history, allowing guests to discover the subtle nuances of each destination.

Ranging from three to five nights, each program is designed to capture the essence of a country, and is guided by local representatives whose cultural preparation matches their on-site experience. Highlights of each include:

  --  Explore Costa Rica and the rainforests of the Carara Biological 
      Reserve ( 3 nights from Caldera)
  --  Meander through the mists of Brazil's magnificent Iguazu Falls and
      visit Argentina's Yacutinga Wildlife Nature Reserve (5 nights from
      Buenos Aires)
  --  Discover the archeological treasure of Easter Island and the mystical
      allure of Rapa Nui's colossal stone "moai" statues (4 or 5 nights from
      Valparaiso)
  --  Journey through secluded coves, mystic fjords and snowcapped peaks of
      New Zealand; explore the rugged coastal region of the Coromandel
      Peninsula and cruise the Milford Sound (4 nights from Auckland)
  --  Adventure into the Outback to see Ayers Rock and learn of Aboriginal
      mythology; view the Olgas by helicopter (3 nights from Sydney)
  --  Cruise the Yangtze River and glide through the legendary Three
      Gorges -- a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the waters of this
      ancient river are rising rapidly and many of these treasures will soon
      be gone forever (5 nights from Beijing)
  --  Visit Xi'an and the world-famous Terra Cotta Warriors, and discover
      the peace and seclusion of Guilin and the Li River (5 nights from Hong
      Kong)
  --  Relish the extravagance of the Palace of Versailles and wander amidst
      the gardens of Giverny; journey to the medieval fortress of Mont Saint
      Michel (5 nights from Paris/Rouen)
  --  Discover the world-famous vintages of Napa Valley (3 nights from San
      Francisco)
  --  Experience the majesty of Italy, from Villa D'Este in Lake Como to the
      Colosseum and St. Peter's Basillica in Rome to the Academy of Fine
      Arts in Florence (pre- and post-cruise itineraries vary; 4 nights from
      Venice)
  --  Journey through the cradle of civilization and discover archeological
      wonders including the Parthenon, Mt. Olympus and the Temple of Apollo
      (5 nights from Athens)

Prestigious Hotels -- from Amsterdam to Venice

Crystal's 2003 Hotel Program features a collection of 21 properties, each noted for its stellar reputation, and many recognized by noted publications such as Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure as some of the finest hotels in the world. Legendary names including Rome's St. Regis Grand, Tokyo's Imperial Hotel, and Paris' Hotel Plaza Athenee and Hotel de Crillon, are joined by landmark newcomers such as San Francisco's Four Seasons Hotel, the Cophenhagen Marriott Hotel and The Ritz Carlton, Central Park.

Properties included in Crystal's Hotel Program are carefully selected for their location, ambience, level of service and attention to detail. The program includes luxurious hotel accommodations, meet and assist arrangements, transfers between airport and hotel, custom sightseeing, hotel tax and porterage, and a Hospitality Desk staffed by a Crystal representative providing valuable insights into each city's main attractions and best kept secrets. Depending on the hotel selected, per person, double occupancy rates begin at $215 for the first night, with a reduced rate available for second and third nights.

An Award-winning Fleet

The 50,000-ton, 940-guest sister ships, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, are two of the most spacious and luxurious vessels cruising the world. Their unique size in the luxury market allows for smooth sailing and a wide range of innovative facilities, generous amenities and elegant accommodations. The Six-Star rated liners feature grand lounges, a lavish spa outfitted in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, extensive exercise facilities, complimentary golf, yoga and Pilates instruction, the only Caesars Palace at Sea Casino afloat, and the innovative Computer University@Sea, offering 24-hour e-mail and internet access, as well as hands-on instruction, expansive decks, two pools, award-winning cuisine and entertainment, and exquisitely-appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs.

The 68,000-ton, 1,080-guest Crystal Serenity will feature an even greater space-per-guest ratio than her sister ships. Plans include expanded areas for spa services and other athletic, cultural and intellectual pursuits. Within a range of luxury accommodations, the line will increase its number of penthouses and enlarge its deluxe staterooms with verandahs. Approximately 85% of its all outside staterooms and suites will offer private verandahs.

The luxury liners are operated by Crystal Cruises, winner of the travel industry's most distinguished hospitality awards and guidebook ratings. Its most recent honors include an unprecedented seventh consecutive "world's best" large-ship cruise line award from Travel + Leisure magazine. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure, please call 800.820.6663. Visit the web site at www.crystalcruises.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


SEABOURN REWARDS 'IMMEDIATE DEPOSIT' BOOKINGS IN NOVEMBER
$100 Per Person Onboard Credit for 2003 Europe and Mediterranean Cruises

 
MIAMI, Oct 31, 2002 -- Seabourn Cruise Line will reward travelers who book and pay a deposit on the same day during the month of November with a $100 per person shipboard credit. The offer is for new bookings on 2003 cruises in Europe and the Mediterranean aboard the intimate, all-suite Yachts of Seabourn: Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend.

The bookings must be made between November 1 and November 30, 2002 and the offer date and booking date must be the same to qualify. The credits are limited to the first two guests in a suite. The offer is combinable with all other Seabourn savings options including Early Booking Savings of up to 40 percent; Complimentary Round Trip Air on selected cruises; Cruise-Only Savings up to 50 percent; Combo Savings of 10 percent for combining two cruises; Grand Voyage Savings of 50 percent for longer combinations; Group Savings and National Accounts offers.

The Yachts of Seabourn offer an array of ultra luxury cruises of seven to 14 days in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. On every cruise, guests will enjoy a complimentary Exclusively Seabourn shoreside experience in one port of call. For more information on The Yachts of Seabourn, contact a professional travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Popular Songs by the Beach Boys, Cyndi Lauper, Sly & The Family Stone Featured in Carnival's New TV Ad Campaign
National Campaign Represents Largest Media Buy Ever for Carnival 

MIAMI (10/30/02) - Popular "fun"-themed songs by the Beach Boys, Cyndi Lauper and Sly & the Family Stone are featured in a brand new multi-million-dollar national television advertising campaign from Carnival Cruise Lines. The campaign represents the largest media buy ever for Carnival. Tagged "So Much Fun. So Many Places," the new campaign encompasses three distinctly different 30 second spots, each of which utilize fast-paced editing and colorful shots of guests of all ages enjoying the on-board amenities and spectacular ports of call featured during a "Fun Ship" cruise -- all set to the music of the Beach Boys' "Fun, Fun, Fun," Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," and Sly & the Family Stone's "Hot Fun in the Summertime." 

The combination of classic "fun"-themed songs, vibrant imagery and quick-cut edits of different aspects of a "Fun Ship" cruise vacation -- dining, dancing, shopping, relaxing by the pool, and visiting tropical destinations -- is designed to build brand awareness and reinforce the fun, high quality, value-packed vacation experience that Carnival provides, according to Carnival President Bob Dickinson. "Carnival owns 'fun' - no one else even comes close - and these new spots take a fresh, energetic approach to effectively convey the feelings and experiences of a 'Fun Ship' cruise vacation to consumers," he said. Dickinson noted that with 86 percent of the public never having taken a cruise, the campaign is also designed to educate viewers about the "Fun Ship" cruise experience while the varying age groups featured within the spot - families, couples, honeymooners, seniors and singles - reflect the line's broad demographic mix. 

Commented Ric Cooper, president and CEO of Miami-based Cooper & Hayes, Carnival's advertising agency that created the campaign, "The 'So Much Fun. So Many Places' campaign truly captures the essence of 'Fun Ship' cruising. Combining colorful shots of guests having the time of their lives with hit songs that evoke memories of fun and relaxation is an excellent means for conveying Carnival's one-of-a-kind vacation experience." Various visual elements from the spots and the "So Much Fun. So Many Places" tag line will eventually be incorporated into Carnival's collateral materials. The ads will also be continuously shown in the 19,000-plus staterooms within the line's 18-vessel "Fun Ship" fleet. The new spots, which will replace the company's existing "Real People" campaign, will air on all major television programming, including The West Wing, Will & Grace, CSI, Survivor, King of Queens, 24 and Law & Order, as well as on select cable programming such as Discovery Channel, A&E, MSNBC, Lifetime Television, TNT and Comedy Central and E! Television.

Back to  the top of the news list


Holland America's Grand World Voyage Offers Exceptional Value and New Segments in 2003

Seattle, October 30, 2002 - Sailing Holland America's signature Grand World Voyage in 2003, the flagship ms Amsterdam visits five continents in 108 days and, now, new segments have been created for travelers seeking a world-class cruise but with less time on their hands. In addition, exceptional onboard entertainment and enrichment programs, plus renowned local talent in various ports of call, make this cruise both a superb value and "experience of a lifetime." 

"The Grand World Voyage is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for travelers," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Whether on the full journey or one of our specially created segments, guests experience a cruise designed to provide the ultimate in premium service, cuisine and experiences." 

The 1,380-passenger Amsterdam departs Ft. Lauderdale on Jan. 4, cruising the Caribbean, both coasts of South America, the Antarctic Peninsula, Easter Island, Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Guam and Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, Hong Kong, China, Japan and Hawaii. It crosses both the Equator and the International Date Line, concluding in Los Angeles on April 22. Guests also can opt to cruise just one individual segment of the World Cruise or several by combining them. For example, those wanting to focus on South America and Antarctica can join the World Cruise in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Jan. 20 for the Amsterdam's 16-day cruise along the continent's east coast to Antarctica and Valparaiso, Chile. Then they can continue on a 16-day segment from Valparaiso, sailing Feb. 9, up the west coast of South America to Callao, Peru and across the Pacific to New Zealand and Sydney, Australia - a 32-day cruise adventure. 

Entertainment & Cultural Enrichment Programs 
The World Cruise features performances by celebrity entertainers onboard, including Sandy Duncan, Tony-nominated actress in musical productions ("Peter Pan") and TV shows; the Gatlin Brothers, Grammy Award-winning country music trio; and Diamond Dave Somerville, one of rock and roll's "founding fathers." When in port, local entertainers often come aboard to give cultural performances. For example, guests may enjoy Maori dancers in New Zealand and cultural performers in Shanghai. The World Cruise's extensive cultural enrichment program features classes in watercolor painting, ballroom dancing, duplicate bridge, yoga, and arts and crafts. Classes are offered every day when the ship is at sea by renowned professionals who have worked with Holland America for several years. For example, award-winning artist Marjorie Ross teaches watercolor, and professional dance instructors Kay and Alan Gick instruct guests on ballroom techniques. Prominent guest lecturers also enhance the World Cruise experience. They include Lawson Brigham, renowned authority on Antarctica, famed biologist Bernard Stonehouse, astronomer Vic Stryker and geologist Dr. Charles Swithinbank. Well-known novelists, film critics and current world affairs commentators also present incisive lectures during the cruise. 

The World Cruise also provides religious services every morning throughout the voyage, plus extended services on High Holy days and Holy Days of Obligation. Aboard are Catholic Bishop Louis Gelineau, Protestant Minister Doug Gessel and Rabbi Stephen Goldrich. 

Extraordinary 108-Day Itinerary in Six Segments 
The Amsterdam's 2003 World Cruise is truly an epic voyage. On the first segment, the ship departs Ft. Lauderdale on January 4 for the Caribbean, calling at Fort-de-France, Martinique and Bridgetown, Barbados, before sailing along the South American coast. There, it cruises the scenic Orinoco River and calls at Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela (Angel Falls tour option); Devil's Island, French Guiana; and Fortaleza, Salvador (Bahia) and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Segment two departs January 20 from Rio for Buenos Aires, Argentina (Iguazu Falls tour option); Montevido, Uruguay (Colonia del Sacramento tour option); and Puerto Madryn, Argentina (Punta Tombo, Valdes Peninsula tour options). Cruising past the Falkland Islands, the ship continues to Antarctica, sailing by Anvers Island (Palmer Station), Paradise Bay, Deception Island, Hope Bay (Esperanza Station), Paulet Island and Elephant Island. Returning to South America by way of Cape Horn, the Amsterdam calls at Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, then cruises past spectacular glaciers as it sails the Beagle and Cockburn Channels to Punta Arenas, Chile (Antarctic flightseeing, Torres del Paine National Park tour options). The ship also cruises the Straits of Magellan, Chilean fjords and Darwin Channel and calls at Puerto Montt, Chile before arriving in Valparaiso, Chile (Santiago tour option). The third segment sails from Valparaiso, Chile, on February 9, to Coquimbo (La Serena), Chile; Arica, Chile (Cuzco/Machu Pichu, Lauca National Park tour options); General San Martin, Peru (Nazca Lines, Paracas National Reserve tour options); Callao, Peru (Lima tour option); Easter Island, Papeete, Tahiti and Bora Bora, Society Islands; Auckland, New Zealand; Christchurch and Wellington, New Zealand; and Sydney, Australia. Segment four departs March 12 from Sydney for Cairns, Australia (Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda Scenic Railway tour options); Madang, Papua New Guinea ("mudmen" tour option); Guam and Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands; and Hong Kong (Guilin, China tour option). The Amsterdam then sails March 27 on segment five from Hong Kong to Shanghai, China (Suzhou and Wuxi tour options); Xingang (Beijing/Forbidden City, Great Wall/Ming Tombs tour options); Cheju City, South Korea; and Osaka, Japan. On its final, sixth segment, departing April 6, guests enjoy Osaka (Kyoto and Nara tour options); Yokohama, Japan (Kamakura, Hakone/Mt. Fuji tour options); cruising the Pacific past Midway Island; and Nawiliwili, Kauai, Honolulu, Oahu, and Kaunakakai, Molokai, Hawaii before they conclude their cruise in Los Angeles. 

Grand World Voyage Tradition 
The Grand World Voyage represents the epitome of Holland America's renowned service and amenities. Dedicated, hand-picked crew provide an extraordinary level of personal attention while maintaining shipboard traditions such as a white-gloved welcome and Royal Dutch high tea. Staterooms feature fresh flowers, new terry robes, personalized stationery and frequent gift surprises such as books, crafts or artwork from destinations on the itinerary. Cruise-only fares for segments of the World Cruise start at US$4,205 per person, double occupancy, including port charges. The full World Cruise starts at US$27,771.

Back to  the top of the news list


Carnival Conquest Offers Unique Wedding Packages for Couples to 'Tie the Knot'

MIAMI (10/30/02) - Carnival Cruise Lines' new Carnival Conquest will offer a number of all-inclusive romantic wedding packages for couples seeking an unforgettable and unique way to tie the knot. Packages feature a shipboard ceremony during embarkation day or at various on-island locations in the western Caribbean and are part of Carnival's popular fleetwide wedding program, which is expected to host 2,200 couples in 2003.

"Carnival Conquest will offer a variety of wedding packages that are not only an attractive, cost-effective alternative to traditional land-based ceremonies, but also an exceptional and memorable experience for couples on one of the most important days of their lives," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

Among the various options is the popular "Just for the Bride & Groom" package, which costs $695 and includes an official civil ceremony, a champagne toast with keepsake flutes, flowers for both bride and groom, a wedding cake with cake topper, pre-recorded wedding music, a decorated bridal aisle and photographic services. The more elaborate "Welcome Aboard" package costs $1,295 and offers all the amenities of "Just for the Bride & Groom" as well as a reception with one-hour open bar and hot-and-cold hors d'oeuvres, a traditional two-tiered wedding cake and coffee service. Couples may also select the "Deluxe Romance" package for $1,395, which includes a one-and-a-half hour reception and an ice carving, as well as all the features of the other programs. Shoreside ceremonies, featuring a variety of all-inclusive amenities in a romantic tropical setting, are available in Montego Bay and Grand Cayman, as well. A wide variety of options such as videography services, live music and tuxedo rental are also available at additional cost.

Beginning Dec. 1, 2002, Carnival Conquest will depart the Port of New Orleans every Sunday on week-long voyages to Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico. Prior to that, the ship will operate three special voyages: a four-day cruise to Cozumel departing Nov. 15, a six-day cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel departing Nov. 21, and a four-day Thanksgiving weekend cruise to Cozumel departing Nov. 27. For additional information on Carnival's wedding packages, call the line's Bon Voyage Department at 1-800-933-4968. For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups). Information and reservations are also available on-line via the line's travel agent Internet portal, www.bookccl.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Royal Caribbean's Nordic Empress Begins
 Sailing From Tampa

MIAMI, Oct. 30 -- The Royal Caribbean International ship Nordic Empress will make its first sailing from the Port of Tampa this Saturday. Nordic Empress will dock at the Port of Tampa's brand new Cruise Terminal 3, at approximately 6 a.m. Saturday. The ship will make 23 seven-night Western Caribbean sailings from Tampa, departing Saturdays, from November 2, 2002, through April 12, 2003, with ports of call in Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico. Additionally, on March 1, 2003, Nordic Empress will make a special seven-night Mardi Gras cruise, spending three days in New Orleans, as well as one night in Progresso, Mexico.

"We are excited to return to Tampa for a second season," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president of Marketing and Sales for Royal Caribbean International. "The response to our first sailings was very strong, and we look forward to that interest continuing with our Nordic Empress cruises."

Nordic Empress arrives in Tampa at the completion of a six-night sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, which departed on October 27. That sailing made port calls in Catalina Island, Dominican Republic; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico. Nordic Empress will depart Tampa on April 19, 2003, on a seven-night sailing to San Juan, with port calls in Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Royal Caribbean's first regular sailings from Tampa came in January and February 2002. The success of those sailings led to the company's expanded sailings with Nordic Empress this winter season. Bookings onboard Nordic Empress are available from $499 per-person, double occupancy.

The 1,600-passenger Nordic Empress is 692 feet long, 100 feet wide, and cruises at 19 knots. It features the brand's ShipShape Fitness Center and full-service spa, Adventure Ocean children's program, Casino Royale, Viking Crown Lounge, beauty salon, barber shop, swimming pool, whirlpools, and jogging track.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 15 ships in service and four more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700 for reservations.

Back to  the top of the news list


SeaDream Yacht Club to Feature SEGWAY™ Human Transporter
High Tech, Two-Wheel, Electric Transporter To Add Verve and Excitement to Unique SeaDream Yachting Experience

Segway™ Human Transporter

COCONUT GROVE, FL -- SeaDream Yacht Club plans to introduce the unique and hotly anticipated Segway™ Human Transporter (HT) on sailings aboard its twin, mega yachts, SeaDream I and II. In doing so, SeaDream will become the first ultra-luxury, seagoing yachting experience to feature the high-tech, two-wheeled, electric transporters that are not yet available to the public.

Commenting on SeaDream’s introduction of the Segway HT, Larry Pimentel, CTC, SeaDream’s Chairman and CEO, said “It was inevitable that SeaDream and Segway get together. We both offer unique travel experiences that add verve and excitement to our lives and that take us to unique locales with ease and enjoyment. When we founded SeaDream we realized that we were creating a niche product with a high degree of marketing differentiation. That’s why in the beginning it was our intention to offer a unique yachting experience; not a cruise experience. With that in mind we taught our guests to expect the unexpected from SeaDream. That’s why we came up with the array of water toys and other diversions we offer aboard our yachts--clearly all activities for the active and adventurous traveler seeking high style fun and excitement. The Segway HT is a fun travel experience, one that will help SeaDream guests get more excitement out of their yachting experience,” Pimentel said.

The simple-to-operate Segway HT has gyroscopes and tilt sensors to monitor a user’s center of gravity more than 100 times a second. When a person leans forward slightly, the Segway HT moves forward; when leaning back, it moves back. The Segway HT will be featured on SeaDream I and II by the end of November when the two yachts are respectively in Palm Beach, Florida and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Segway HT will be introduced aboard SeaDream yachts in two stages. During the first stage specially trained, onboard SeaDream personnel will teach guests basic riding skills--forward and backward motion, turning and agility.

SeaDream guests will then have the opportunity to ride the device on a shoreside training course. The experience will be available to guests at a cost of $49 per hour. Later in its 2003 season SeaDream intends to introduce the Segway HT into its SeaDream Land Adventures, its highly-acclaimed shore excursion program.

SeaDream Yacht Club is the yachting venture by Norwegian entrepreneur Atle Brynestad who founded Seabourn Cruise Line and Larry Pimentel, who was president of Seabourn under Brynestad and later president and CEO of the merged Cunard and Seabourn. Pimentel is Chairman and CEO of the Coconut Grove, Florida-headquartered SeaDream Yacht Club and a co-owner. The company operates SeaDream I and SeaDream II, twin, ultra luxury, mega yachts that operate on seven-day sailings in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The yachts are not only ideal for discerning travelers seeking an unstructured and casual holiday experience but also for small meetings and incentive groups or individual private family gatherings. They are available for full charter. The SeaDream Yacht Club reservations number is 1 800 707-4911. The website is www.seadreamyachtclub.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Seabourn Spirit to Explore New Zealand in 2004
Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea Round Out First Quarter Cruises

 
MIAMI, October 29, 2002 -- Seabourn Cruise Line has announced the cruising schedules of The Yachts of Seabourn for the first quarter of 2004, including a return to the South Pacific for Seabourn Spirit. The intimate, all-suite ship's season will center on an in-depth exploration of the picturesque yacht harbors and scenic splendors of New Zealand's North and South Islands.

The 208-guest ship will begin the year with an 11-day cruise from Singapore to Cairns, Australia via Darwin, in the Northern Territories, and the Great Barrier Reef. From Cairns, a 15-day itinerary includes the Great Barrier Reef, the luxury reef resort of Hayman Island, Brisbane, a multi-day stay at Sydney and calls at Nelson, Ship's Cove, Kaikoura and Akaroa, New Zealand enroute to Lyttelton (Christchurch).

From there, the ship will sail a 14-day "Yachtsman's New Zealand" itinerary exploring the North and South Islands of New Zealand in depth. Included are a call at the picturesque university town of Dunedin, scenic cruising of majestic fjordlands of Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds and stays in the towns of Wellington, Picton, Napier and Tauranga, for visits to the geothermal area and Maori cultural attractions at Rotorua. The ship then continues to Waiheke Island, spends a night and full day in Auckland and visits Russell in the scenic Bay of Islands before sailing to Dravuni Island and Lautoka, Fiji, where the cruise ends.

"Seabourn Spirit's cruises in the South Pacific will offer her guests an incredible variety of sights, sounds, tastes and experiences," said Richard Meadows, senior vice president of sales and marketing. "From the tropical beaches of Fiji to the towering peaks of Milford Sound, and from volcanic geysers and coral lagoons to cosmopolitan cities like Sydney, Auckland and Wellington, the region provides abundant rewards for travelers pursuing literally every interest."

Starting February 14, 2004, Seabourn Spirit will reverse course for an additional 14-day voyage back to Lyttelton, followed by a 14-day return voyage to Cairns. From Cairns, Seabourn Spirit sails an exotic 18-day voyage through the Coral Sea, calling at Lae, Rabaul, and Madang, Papua New Guinea as well as Cebu and Manila in the Philippines, arriving in Hong Kong on March 31st, 2004. An optional overland excursion to the New Guinea highlands and the Sepik River will be offered.

On March 31, 2003, Seabourn Spirit sails one of the popular two-week cruises of Thailand and Vietnam from Hong Kong to Singapore. Then Spirit explores Phuket, Thailand; Myanmar (formerly Burma) and Sri Lanka on a 13-day cruise enroute to Mumbai (Bombay) India, available with an included, four-night Post-Cruise India Journey that adds Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. A fascinating selection of ports in the Red Sea nations of Oman, Dubai, Jordan and Egypt highlight a 19-day cruise that leads on to the Mediterranean for the spring, summer and fall seasons. This cruise also offers a 5-night Pre-Cruise India Journey.

Seabourn Pride will once again circumnavigate South America from January 3 to March 15, 2004. Individual cruises of seven to 18 days exploring the Inca Coast, Patagonia and Cape Horn, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro and the Amazon are available. 
 
Seabourn Legend repeats her popular series of adventurous two-week cruises of Panama Canal, Belize & Costa Rica between January 4 and February 28, 2004. Sailing between Fort Lauderdale and Caldera (San Jose) Costa Rica, these cruises include visits to the spectacular coral reefs of Belize and Honduras, Panama's natural attractions and majestic canal and Costa Rica's superb national parks. Prior to departing for a season in the Mediterranean, Seabourn Legend offers a series of three seven-day sailings to Seabourn's Uncommon Caribbean, departing from Fort Lauderdale and St. Thomas.

In addition to Early Booking Savings of 25 to 50 percent offered on all cruises, various combinations of cruises totaling up to 18 days in length are eligible for Combo Savings of an additional 10 percent. Combinations of cruises totaling 20 days or more are specially fared with Grand Voyage Savings of up to 50 percent. Also, selected cruises are designated Signature Value Sailings offering 50 percent savings to members of the Seabourn Club alumni organization. These same savings are offered to guests who have previously sailed on any of the World's Leading Cruise Lines, including Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises, Costa Cruises and Cunard Line.

Back to  the top of the news list


Upgrades Completed for Prinsendam Staterooms 

Seattle, October 28, 2002 -- Holland America Line recently completed an upgrade on 365 staterooms on board the ms Prinsendam. The renovations include soft goods and some hardware replacements. 

"When Holland America took delivery of the Prinsendam, we initially renovated 19 suites and built 14 lanai staterooms," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Then, we focused on freshening all of the remaining cabins to ensure that this 794-passenger ship lives up to her Elegant Explorer reputation." 

All Prinsendam's staterooms received new draperies, bedspreads, and other softgoods. The new, up-to-date design features blue and gold floral and pattern fabrics and carpeting. A team of specialists sailed with the ship to install the new softgoods. Additional items replaced include verandah and window curtains, bedskirts, headboard coverings, pillows and lampshades. In most cabins, sofas were reupholstered and bathroom sinks replaced. Additional refurbishment done where needed includes cabin and corridor carpet replacement, tile and grout repairs, plumbing fixture repairs, verandah teak deck work and verandah furniture replacement. Future plans call for replacing the 134 verandah doors, which is planned to be done during the ship's next regularly scheduled drydock. The total cost of refurbishment and upgrades will top US$25 million when completed. 

"These upgrades further enhance the Prinsendam's very special cruise experience. We are confident our guests will treasure each moment they sail aboard this intimate, elegant ship to her out-of-the-ordinary destinations," said Giersdorf. 

The Prinsendam features eight passenger decks, plus 15 public rooms and boutiques. Of the 398 staterooms, 94 percent - or 373 staterooms - have an ocean view, and 39 percent of those - or 155 staterooms - offer private verandahs. The ship also provides a full spa and fitness center, Internet center, outside pools, wrap-around promenade deck, theater, show lounge, library, Lido restaurant, and several public lounges. 

Prinsendam to Sail South Pacific/Asia through March Through April 2003, the Prinsendam sails a series of 12 cruises through the South Pacific and Asia. From Singapore, the ship sails on Nov. 2 for a series of seven 18- or 16-day Australia and New Zealand cruises, featuring exotic Indonesia as well as the lively Land Down Under. First-time port calls for Holland America include Hardee Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia; Brisbane, Australia; and Napier, New Zealand. On Feb. 24, 2003, the Prinsendam departs Sydney for an 18-day cruise to Singapore featuring five Australian ports, plus Semarang (Borobudur tour option), Indonesia. Fares for these cruises start at $3,499 per person, double occupancy. The Prinsendam will spend an idyllic spring on a series of four 14-day Far East cruises from Singapore, Hong Kong or Osaka departing on March 14 and 28, April 11 and 25. Depending on itinerary, highlights include Brunei, Cambodia; Vietnam; Shanghai and Beijing, People's Republic of China; South Korea; and Japan. Fares start at $2,829 per person, double occupancy. The ship returns to Europe for its second season in May.

Back to  the top of the news list


Princess Cruises Bids Farewell to the Original "Love Boat"
Pacific Princess Makes Final Voyage October 27 - Departs New York harbor on a Trans-Atlantic Cruise to Rome

Gavin MacLeod, Capt Merrill Stubing, bids farewell to the original "LOVE BOAT"

Famous Ship, Hundreds of Celebrities, Exotic Locales and "Love" Helped Shape Modern Day Cruising

SANTA CLARITA, CA, Oct. 28, 2002 -- After 27 years of service, Princess Cruises is saying goodbye this week to the Pacific Princess, the original "Love Boat," which has departed on its final voyage, a trans-Atlantic cruise from New York to Rome.

The 640-passenger ship provided the spectacular setting for the popular '70s and '80s television series "The Love Boat" helping to introduce cruising to the mainstream vacationer with its weekly installment of fun and romance on the high seas.

"After years of service and many wonderful memories for passengers and crew alike, it's time to say goodbye to the ship that made Princess such a recognizable name," said Phil Kleweno, president of Princess Cruises. "Every week when the show aired, millions of people were introduced through television to the then new idea of vacation cruising. I think most in our business would agree that `The Love Boat' was responsible for beginning the modern-day growth of the cruise industry."

"But cruising has changed since those early days and we have built a fleet of ships whose amenities rival any landside resort," he continued. "Our focus today is to offer passengers such a variety of choice in dining, entertainment and activities, so they can truly personalize their vacation experience, while at the same time visiting exotic places around the world. Through 2004 we'll be introducing seven new ships, including a 'new' Pacific Princess, similar in size to her namesake but with a lot of enticing features for passengers."

Pacific Princess History
Princess Cruises acquired the German built ship in 1975 from Norwegian cruise company Flagship Cruise Lines and christened her the Pacific Princess, deploying her on the Mexico and Alaska routes. That same year, television producer Aaron Spelling approached Princess Cruises about filming a new TV show aboard the ship. Although the ship was sailing at near capacity, the company felt that participating in the series would be an ideal way to increase awareness of cruises in general, and generate interest in the then new Pacific Princess. After nine lively seasons, making it one of the longest-running shows on television, "The Love Boat" and its regular star Pacific Princess continue to attract fans today with its subsequent airings of re-runs around the world in more than 90 countries.

Pacific Princess on "The Love Boat"
From 1977 to 1986, more than 1,000 celebrities "sailed" aboard the Pacific Princess (on "The Love Boat" series) including Tom Hanks, Mickey Rooney, Heather Locklear, John Ritter, Billy Crystal, Jamie Lee Curtis, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Hulk Hogan, Carol Channing, Charo, Marion Ross, Gene Kelly and Ginger Rogers. When not on camera, the stars enjoyed dining in the ship's Coral dining room, swimming in the famous Crystal pool, strolling the lido deck and descending the well-recognized lobby staircase. Star-struck passengers booked cruises long in advance to watch the shows being filmed onboard, and to perhaps even be invited on screen as extras. During the run of the show, the ship and the show's main cast - Gavin MacLeod, as Captain Merrill Stubing; Lauren Tewes as Cruise Director Julie McCoy; Fred Grandy as Yoeman Purser Burl "Gopher" Smith; Bernie Kopell as Dr. Adam Bricker; Ted Lange as bartender Isaac Washington; and Jill Whelan as Vicki Stubing - visited exotic ports around the globe such as Acapulco, Barcelona, Stockholm, Mazatlan, London, Los Angeles, Helsinki, Paris and Sydney.

"The popularity of 'The Love Boat' television show turned the Pacific Princess, the show's cast and cruising into household names overnight," said Gavin MacLeod, the actor who portrayed Captain Stubing on the show. "What I enjoyed most about 'The Love Boat' was interacting with the variety of guest stars we had on the show each week. The producers did a fantastic job of appealing to a wide audience range by combining legendary stars like Lana Turner, Cesar Romero and Ethel Merman, with current celebrities of the day like Andy Warhol, Melissa Gilbert and Michael J. Fox, as well as future stars Vanessa Williams and Kirstie Alley in each episode."

Cruising Today
Cruising and Princess ships have evolved since the original days of the "Love Boat." When she was introduced, Pacific Princess was a "state of the art" cruise ship with amenities like an elevator, beauty salon and a casino. Today, Princess ships feature a multitude of cabins with balconies, spectacular atriums, multiple Broadway- and Cabaret-style theaters, miniature golf putting greens, luxurious health spas, wedding chapels and Internet cafes. And, while passengers were assigned to dine aboard the original "Love Boat" at a specified time, Princess now offers passengers a plethora of dining choices, including anytime restaurant-style seating, steakhouses, Italian trattorias and Southwestern eateries.

Princess Cruises, one of the best-known names in North American cruising, is a global cruise and tour company. Part of P&O Princess Cruises plc, it currently operates a fleet of nine ships on nearly 150 different itineraries calling at hundreds of ports around the globe. By 2004, a further seven ships will be added to its fleet.

Back to  the top of the news list


Distinguished Journalist Joan Lunden to Be Godmother to ms Zuiderdam, Holland America Line's Newest Ship

SEATTLE, Oct. 28 -- Joan Lunden, long-time co-host of ABC's Good Morning America and current host of A&E's Behind Close Doors & The Real Story, will serve as godmother to Holland America Line's first new Vista-class ship, the ms Zuiderdam, in a ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Dec. 14.

"It is indeed an honor to have Ms. Lunden participating in the dedication of our new ship," said Holland America Line Chairman and CEO A. Kirk Lanterman. "Her professionalism and integrity distinguish here as an ideal godmother for this world-class ship. She embodies the qualities of our guests and the officers and crew who will bring her into service."

Lunden also co-hosts A&E's award-winning Biography and received the New York Women in communications Matrix Award for "outstanding contributions to the broadcasting field." Her show Behind Closed Doors gives viewers unprecedented access to the inner workings of places few have ever seen, including inside the White House, the Central Intelligence Agency, the FBI and the Pentagon. She has trained with the U.S. Navy Seals, the Green Berets, the Marines, the Hostage Rescue Team and the Nuclear Emergency Search Team. She has been at the controls of an F-18 jet, landing on the U.S.S. Eisenhower aircraft carrier. She has taken nine Gs with the Thunderbirds, navigated a nuclear submarine and a M1A2 Battle Tank and jumped from 15,000 feet with the Golden Knights.

While working 17 years with Good Morning America, Lunden traveled extensively reporting live from 26 countries. She has covered four U.S. Presidents, two Royal weddings and several world conflicts. Lunden has written four best-selling books: Joan Lunden's Healthy Cooking; Joan Lunden's Healthy Living; A Bend in the Road is Not the End of the Road; and Joan Lunden's Wake Up Calls.

As godmother to a Holland America ship, Lunden joins other recent ship godmothers such as Princess Margriet of Holland, actress June Allyson, tennis star Chris Evert, Janet Lanterman, wife of Holland America Line Chairman A. Kirk Lanterman, show business twins Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, and all employees of Holland America.

Zuiderdam debuts Dec. 14, 2002 as the first of five Vista class vessels and becomes the line's year-round, seven-day Caribbean ship, sailing alternating Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale. The 1,848-passenger ship will boast the highest passenger space ratio of all Holland America ships at 46.

A full 85 percent of its staterooms have ocean views, and 67 percent of them have verandahs, perfect for enjoying a private breakfast and viewing the passing scenery. Vista ships also feature a new stateroom category -- Deluxe Verandah Outside -- which represents the cruise industry's best value in verandah staterooms. The Oosterdam offers 461 of these staterooms, featuring verandahs approximately twice the size of the regular verandahs for the category. A concierge lounge will be for the exclusive use of Penthouse and Deluxe Verandah Suite guests.

While adding unique features such as exterior glass elevators with sea views, the Zuiderdam also incorporates hallmark features of Holland America ships. The Oosterdam provides numerous dining options, from elegant meals in the formal dining room to Pacific Northwest-styled steak and seafood in the intimate Odyssey Restaurant and casual breakfast, lunch and dinner served from multi-stations in the popular Lido Restaurant. The new Windstar Cafe will serve coffee, espresso and baked goods throughout the day.

Expanded spa facilities and a second "cabaret-style" show lounge complement the multi-level, main show theater. Two interior promenade decks, an exterior covered promenade deck encircling the entire ship, a large Lido pool with a retractable dome, and Holland America's signature Explorers Lounge and "Crow's Nest" observation lounge are also featured.

Beginning with the ms Zuiderdam this fall, by 2006 Holland America will be increasing its capacity by 73 percent -- and its fleet to a total of 15 ships -- with the introduction of five new 85,000-ton, 1,848-passenger Vista Class ships, the largest ever built for Holland America Line.

For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Holland America Line's 2003 Deployment Introduces 3 Ships, Offers 448 Premium Cruises to All 7 Continents

Seattle, October 25, 2002 -- Holland America Line, the world's leading premium cruise line, announces its 2003 deployment, featuring the inaugural seasons of three ships -- the ms Prinsendam, ms Zuiderdam and ms Oosterdam. Holland America's 12-ship fleet will offer 448 five-star cruises ranging in length from three to 108 days and visiting all seven continents and Holland America's cruises will sail from 14 North American home ports in 2003.

"Our deployment for 2003 features a balance of perennial favorites, like Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Panama Canal, Hawaii, and Mexico, along with our new, easily accessible Canada/New England and Pacific Northwest/Coastal cruises, plus truly exotic, once-in-a-lifetime experiences like our five-continent Grand World Voyage and other itineraries that feature Antarctica, South America, Africa and the Asia/Pacific region," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "2003 will be an exciting year to cruise with HAL. We're returning to Europe with four ships. We'll have seven ships in Alaska for the first time ever. And our five-star fleet will deliver world-class cruises ranging from the 108-day Grand World Voyage to exotic 14- to 22-day cruises to such locales as Africa, the Far East and South America's Orinoco River," said Giersdorf.

Holland America's 2003 highlights include:

* The new Zuiderdam, sister ship to the Oosterdam, introduced in December 2002 and continuing its inaugural season as Holland America Line's year-around Caribbean ship, sailing from Ft. Lauderdale all year on seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. Eight-five percent of the staterooms feature an ocean view, with approximately 80 percent of those offering affordable private verandahs and spectacular suites.

* The debut of the new 1,848-passenger Oosterdam, departing July 10 from London on its maiden cruise, the first of a series of 12-day summer and fall Baltic and Western Mediterranean cruises, culminating with a 14-day transatlantic cruise Nov. 19-Dec. 3, then two seven-day Caribbean cruises and two seven-day holiday cruises from Ft. Lauderdale. * The ms Noordam will do a series of exceptional 10-day European cruises covering the highlights in the Mediterranean, Coastal European cities and the fascinating Baltic region.

* The intimate 794-passenger Prinsendam, continuing its inaugural season of exotic cruises ranging in length from 14 to 22 days from January to September in Australia/New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the Far East, Western Europe and the Baltic. On Sept. 20, the Prinsendam sails on a 12-day transatlantic/Eastern Canada cruise from London to Boston, followed by a 10-day Eastern Canada/New England cruise from Boston to Montreal, a 16-day cruise from Montreal to Ft. Lauderdale, a 27-day Panama Canal/South America cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Puerto Caldera, and a 30-day South Pacific/Hawaii cruise from Puerto Caldera to San Diego. The Prinsendam ends the year with a 17-day Holiday Panama Canal cruise from San Diego to Ft. Lauderdale to start the Grand World Voyage in 2004.

* The gala 108-day Grand World Voyage on board the 1,380-passenger flagship ms Amsterdam -- named "Ship of the Year for 2002" by the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society -- departing Jan. 4, 2004, from Ft. Lauderdale and returning to Los Angeles on April 22. The ultimate in global travel, the world cruise will visit five continents, encompassing the mythical wonders of South America and the majesty of Antarctica, the mystery of isolated islands and the idyllic romance of the South Seas, the wonders of the "Land Down Under," the exotic delights of the Far East and the sunny charms of the Hawaiian Islands.

* For the first time, Holland America, the leader in Alaska travel, will have seven ships offering a record 134 cruises to Alaska, including the Amsterdam reprising its seven-day program with 21 cruises from Seattle to Alaska, May 3-Sept. 27. On the tour side, Holland America Tours will introduce new tours visiting Canada's spectacular Kluane Park.

* A new 33-day European discovery cruise, featuring Greenland and the Baltic on board the 1,316-passenger flagship ms Rotterdam, sailing round trip from New York, on Aug. 15. Plus a new 34-day Greenland, Iceland, British Isle and Europe cruise will depart on July 12 from Boston offering 2 night deluxe hotel in Amsterdam and returning back to New York on July 30 from the city of Rotterdam.

* Ten "introductory" cruises of fewer than seven days that will not only provide new cruisers with a sampling of the full HAL premium cruise experience, but also experienced cruisers with shorter alternatives.

Following is an overview of Holland America's 2003 cruises by destination:

Caribbean -- In 2003, Holland America will sail from the Florida home ports of Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa and Port Canaveral on 163 cruises to the Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean offering seven-, 10- and 14-day itineraries. Eight ships will sail the Caribbean, including the 1,214-passenger ms Noordam, the 1,440-passenger ms Zaandam and ms Volendam, the 1,266-passenger ms Maasdam and ms Veendam, the Rotterdam, Zuiderdam and Oosterdam.

Alaska -- In addition to the Amsterdam, sailing on 21 cruises from Seattle, the 2003 Alaska cruise fleet also will feature the Maasdam, Volendam and Zaandam offering 59 seven-day roundtrip Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruises from Vancouver, B.C., and the 1,266-passenger sister ships ms Statendam, Ryndam and Veendam on a total of 54 seven-day Glacier Discovery cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska. (The Statendam and Ryndam also will do one Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruise each; the Veendam will offer two.) And, Holland America Tours will offer more than 30 exciting cruisetour options for the Alaska 2003 season, including new tours that visit Kluane Park, a scenic jewel located in Canada's Yukon Territory.

Panama Canal -- Holland America Line, one of the largest operators of Panama Canal cruises, will offer 25 Canal cruises in 2003, ranging in length from 10 to 24 days. In addition to spring and fall trans-Panama Canal cruises between Florida and the West Coast, the Rotterdam will sail on a series of 10- or 12-day Sunfarer cruises roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale in the winter/spring and fall that feature the Southern Caribbean and a visit to the Panama Canal. A special 18-day Caribbean/Panama Canal/Orinoco River cruise will be offered on the Rotterdam departing Ft. Lauderdale on April 23.

Europe -- Holland America Line will offer 37 Europe cruises, plus six transatlantic cruises, in 2003, ranging in length from 10 to 33 days, on board the Noordam, as well as the Oosterdam, Prinsendam and Rotterdam (highlights above). The Noordam will sail a 15-day transatlantic cruise from Tampa to Lisbon April 13-28, then will offer 10- and 14-day cruises in the Western Mediterranean, Western Europe and the Baltic, sailing for the U.S. on a 15-day cruise from Lisbon Nov. 22-Dec. 7. In addition to its 33-day Greenland/Baltic cruise, the Rotterdam also will feature two special 16-day summer transatlantic cruises with numerous port calls, including Greenland and Iceland, sailing between Boston or New York and Rotterdam July 12 and 30.

Canada/New England -- The Rotterdam will sail in the spring, summer and fall from New York, Montreal or Boston on 10 Eastern Canada/New England seven-, 10-, and 12-day cruises. In addition, the Prinsendam will offer a 10-day Eastern Canada cruise Oct. 2 from Boston to Montreal and a 16-day Eastern Canada/New England/Atlantic Coast cruise from Montreal to Ft. Lauderdale on Oct. 12.

Mexico and Hawaii -- In addition to the Prinsendam's 30-day South Pacific Hawaii cruise, Holland America offers a total of 29 Mexico cruises and seven Hawaii cruises on a regular program roundtrip from San Diego in 2003. The Statendam will sail an alternating program of seven-, eight- and 10-day Mexico cruises and 15- and 16-day Hawaii cruises from January to May and again from late September through December. The Ryndam will sail on 15 Mexico cruises: a 12-day cruise departing April 24, two 10-day cruises departing Oct. 27 and Nov. 6, plus 12 seven-day cruises in September/October and November/December. All Ryndam cruises and selected Statendam cruises feature the Sea of Cortez.

South America -- In addition to the Prinsendam's 21-day Panama Canal/Galapagos Islands/South America cruise, Holland America will offer six South America cruises on board the Ryndam in the winter-spring of 2003. The six cruises, ranging in length from 17 to 21 days, depart from San Diego, Valparaiso and Rio de Janeiro. Highlight of the 21-day cruise departing Valparaiso on Jan. 24 is a scheduled visit to spectacular Antarctica, marking HAL's fifth visit to the southernmost continent. The Amsterdam also will offer four South America cruises in the fall and winter of 2003. The 12-, 17- and 18-day cruises will depart from San Diego, Valparaiso or Rio de Janeiro.

Pacific Northwest and Pacific Coast -- In 2003, Holland America will offer nine Pacific Northwest and Pacific Coast cruises of five days or less, perfect for a short, relaxing getaway.

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 kid's program, complete fitness centers and popular "tipping not required." 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.

Back to  the top of the news list


Royal Caribbean Acknowledges P&O Decision on Merger

Miami, Oct 25, 2002 -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. noted the decision announced earlier by the Board of P&O Princess Cruises, withdrawing its recommendation of the merger agreed between the two companies in November 2001.

Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive of Royal Caribbean, said, "Clearly, we regret that the Board of P & O Princess is taking this action. We remain today as convinced as ever that the pairing of our two companies would be a great partnership and a great business. Ultimately, it is the shareholders of P & O Princess who must decide what is best for their company."

As stipulated under the terms of the merger, the implementation agreement of November 2001 has now been terminated and P & O Princess has accordingly paid Royal Caribbean the agreed break fee of $62.5 million. Both companies have also executed mutual releases and the joint venture between them, also agreed upon last November, will be terminated on January 1st 2003, provided that there has been no change of control of either company prior to that date.

Back to  the top of the news list


Carnival Cruise Lines Takes Delivery of Carnival Conquest; 
Largest Vessel in 'Fun Ship' Fleet at 110,000 GRT'S
New 2,974-Passenger SuperLiner to Debut from New Orleans Nov. 15

MIAMI, Oct. 25 -- Carnival Cruise Lines today took delivery of the new 110,000-ton Carnival Conquest, the largest "Fun Ship" ever constructed, during official ceremonies at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. Carnival Conquest is the first in a new series of ships for the line and becomes the 18th vessel in the Carnival Cruise Lines fleet.

"Carnival Conquest is a stunning addition to the 'Fun Ship' fleet and offers an unprecedented array of amenities and facilities desired by today's discerning consumers," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

The 2,974-passenger SuperLiner will depart Italy on a 16-day transatlantic crossing in late October and is scheduled to arrive in its U.S. homeport of New Orleans the week of Nov. 11. Following an on-board black-tie charity fundraiser benefiting the United Way for the Greater New Orleans Area Nov. 14, Carnival Conquest will sail on its maiden voyage, a four-day cruise to Cozumel departing Nov. 15.

Carnival Conquest will then operate a two-day cruise for travel agents Nov. 19-21 followed by a six-day cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel Nov. 21, and a four-day Thanksgiving weekend cruise Nov. 27. Beginning Dec. 1, Carnival Conquest will launch regular seven-day service from New Orleans, becoming the newest and largest ship cruise ship to operate year-round departures from that port.

Longer than three football fields and towering 207 feet above the water at its highest point, Carnival Conquest offers an unprecedented 22 lounges and bars, including a spectacular three-deck-high theater showcasing elaborate Vegas-style revues, along with a 12,000-square-foot health club and salon, jogging track, Internet cafe, comprehensive golf program, and a nine-deck-high glass-topped atrium. Carnival Conquest also features 1,487 staterooms.

Four restaurants, including two full-service dining rooms, a reservations- only "steakhouse-style" supper club serving U.S.D.A. prime aged beef, along with crab claws from Miami Beach's world famous Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant, and a two-level poolside eatery offering 24-hour pizza and self-service ice cream/frozen yogurt, New York-style deli, and Asian and American specialty areas, are featured, as well. Other dining options include a patisserie, a sushi bar and complimentary 24-hour room service.

Carnival Conquest's "family friendly" amenities include a 4,200-square- foot play area, the largest in the "Fun Ship" fleet, featuring an arts and crafts center, computer lab and children's library, as well as "Action Alley," an expansive teen recreation area with a teen dance club/coffee bar and high- tech game room.

The ship also features striking interiors inspired by the works of famous Impressionist and post-Impressionist painters -- appropriate for a ship based in New Orleans, a city possessing a rich European heritage.

In addition to Carnival Conquest, Carnival currently has three other 110,000-ton vessels on order or under construction at Fincantieri: Carnival Glory, set to launch year-round seven-day cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla., July 19, 2003; Carnival Valor, scheduled to enter service in fall 2004; and an as-yet-unnamed vessel expected to debut in fall 2005. Also on order is the 88,500-ton Carnival Miracle set to debut in spring 2004.

Back to  the top of the news list


Carnival Corporation Pre-Conditional Carnival DLC Proposal to P&O Princess With Partial Share Offer

LONDON, Oct. 24 -- Micky Arison, the Chairman and Chief Executive of Carnival, said, "As a result of very constructive meetings with P&O Princess, we are thrilled to be in a position to offer a DLC structure to P&O Princess shareholders. Our DLC not only provides P&O Princess shareholders with the superior economic terms of our increased offer, but also enables them to retain their UK listed shares and to participate in the only dual listed company that will be included in both the FTSE 100 and the S&P 500. We value the DLC structure and the benefits it will provide both the shareholders of Carnival and P&O Princess. We are satisfied that we have developed a DLC structure which is effective from tax and legal points of view.

We intend to invite representatives of P&O Princess to join the Carnival board and believe there will be significant benefits in sharing the best practices of the two management teams across our combined enterprise. P&O Princess and Carnival shareholders can both participate in the future of a combined business, which will be one of the most exciting and dynamic in the leisure industry. We believe our DLC proposal provides a superior economic alternative for P&O Princess shareholders to the Royal Caribbean proposal. We therefore expect the P&O Princess board to withdraw its recommendation for the Royal Caribbean proposal and, in due course, recommend Carnival's DLC."

SUMMARY
   * Following negotiations with P&O Princess, the Carnival Board announces 
     a pre-conditional proposal to enter into a DLC structure with P&O
     Princess.  The combination of Carnival and P&O Princess will create a
     leading global vacation and leisure group.
   * Under the Carnival DLC Proposal, the Equalisation Ratio will be one
     Carnival Share for every 3.3289 P&O Princess Shares, which is
     equivalent to 0.3004 Carnival Shares for each P&O Princess Share, the
     same economic terms as those of Carnival's Increased Offer announced on
     7 February 2002.  The "look through" value of the Carnival DLC is 504
     pence per P&O Princess Share and values the entire existing issued
     share capital of P&O Princess at approximately 3.5 billion pounds.
     Carnival Shareholders will hold approximately 74 per cent. and P&O
     Princess Shareholders will hold approximately 26 per cent. of the
     equity of the Carnival DLC.
   * The Carnival DLC Proposal includes the Partial Share Offer.  The
     Partial Share Offer will enable P&O Princess Shareholders to exchange
     P&O Princess Shares for New Carnival Shares on the basis of 0.3004 New
     Carnival Shares for each P&O Princess Share up to, in aggregate, a
     maximum of 20 per cent. of P&O Princess' issued share capital.
   * Under the Carnival DLC, the boards of Carnival and P&O Princess will be
     identical and the Carnival DLC will be managed by a unified executive
     management team.  Representatives of P&O Princess will be invited to
     join the Carnival Board.  The DLC Documents between the two companies
     will align their economic interests and enable them to operate as a
     single economic enterprise.
   * The existing primary listings of Carnival on the NYSE and P&O Princess
     on the London Stock Exchange will be maintained and the existing full
     index participations of Carnival in the S&P 500 and of P&O Princess in
     the FTSE 100 are expected to be retained.
   * The Carnival DLC Proposal is subject to certain Pre-conditions set out
     below and to the Conditions set out in Appendix I.  If the Pre-
     conditions are satisfied or waived, Carnival's Increased Offer will not
     be made except in circumstances described in paragraph 8 of the full
     text of this announcement.
   * Carnival expects that the earliest date on which P&O Princess would
     recommend the Carnival DLC is in early January 2003, and that
     completion would then occur during the first quarter of 2003.
Carnival DLC Proposal
   * The Carnival Board announces the terms of a pre-conditional proposal to
     enter into a DLC structure with P&O Princess.  The Carnival DLC
     Proposal includes Carnival entering into the Implementation Agreement,
     the form of which has been negotiated with P&O Princess, under which,
     and subject to certain Conditions summarised in this announcement, the
     companies will agree to enter into agreements and modify their
     constitutional documents (the form of which have been negotiated with
     P&O Princess) in order to implement the Carnival DLC.  Carnival is
     satisfied that the Carnival DLC is effective from tax and legal points
     of view.
   * Under the Carnival DLC, the Equalisation Ratio will be one Carnival
     Share for every 3.3289 P&O Princess Shares, which is equivalent to
     0.3004 Carnival Shares for each P&O Princess Share, the same economic
     terms as those of Carnival's Increased Offer announced on 7 February
     2002.  On implementation of the Carnival DLC Proposal it is intended
     that the P&O Princess Shares will be reorganised such that one P&O
     Princess Share will be equivalent to one Carnival Share.  Carnival
     Shareholders will hold approximately 74 per cent. and P&O Princess
     Shareholders will hold approximately 26 per cent. of the equity of the
     Carnival DLC.
   * The Carnival DLC Proposal includes the Partial Share Offer for up to 20
     per cent. of the P&O Princess Shares.  If the aggregate amount of
     elections under the Partial Share Offer exceeds 20 per cent. of P&O
     Princess' issued share capital when the Partial Share Offer is made,
     they will be scaled down.
   * If the Partial Share Offer is taken up in full, approximately 79 per
     cent. of the equity of the Carnival DLC will be held by Carnival
     Shareholders (including approximately 5 per cent. held by those P&O
     Princess Shareholders who have elected for the Partial Share Offer) and
     approximately 21 per cent. by P&O Princess Shareholders who have
     retained their P&O Princess Shares.  The Equalisation Ratio will not be
     affected by the level of the take-up of the Partial Share Offer.
   * The "look through" value per P&O Princess Share under the Carnival DLC,
     based on the closing price of $26.00 per Carnival Share on 23 October
     2002, is 504 pence. This represents:
         *  a premium of 59.1 per cent. to the closing middle-market price
            of 317 pence per P&O Princess Share on 19 November 2001, the
            last business day prior to the announcement of the Royal
            Caribbean Proposal; and
         *  a premium of 10.8 per cent. to the closing middle-market price
            of 455 pence per P&O Princess Share on 23 October 2002, the last
            business day prior to the date of this announcement.
   * Following completion of the Carnival DLC, it is intended that the
     regular dividend payments received by P&O Princess Shareholders will be
     consistent with Carnival's regular quarterly dividend.  Had the
     Carnival DLC been in place for the last four quarters, the dividends
     received by P&O Princess Shareholders would have been approximately 5
     per cent. higher.
   * Under the Carnival DLC, the boards of Carnival and P&O Princess will be
     identical, and the Carnival DLC will be managed by a unified executive
     management team.  Representatives of P&O Princess will be invited to
     join the Carnival Board.  The DLC Documents between the two companies
     will align their economic interests, allow them to pursue common
     interests and enable them to operate as a single economic enterprise.
   * Although they will be operated as a single economic enterprise, P&O
     Princess and Carnival will retain separate corporate identities and
     will maintain separate stock exchange listings.  Carnival will continue
     to have a primary listing on the NYSE.  P&O Princess will continue to
     have a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is expected to
     remain eligible for full participation in the FTSE series of indices,
     including the FTSE 100. Carnival is expected to retain its existing
     index participations, including its participation in the S&P 500.

Pre-conditions and Conditions to the Carnival DLC Proposal

The signing of the Implementation Agreement by Carnival relating to the Carnival DLC and the making of the Partial Share Offer are subject to the following Pre-conditions, which Carnival may waive at its discretion:

   * P&O Princess withdrawing its recommendation of the Royal Caribbean
     Proposal within 48 hours of this announcement and not subsequently
     reinstating such recommendation;
   * P&O Princess Shareholders not passing the resolutions to approve the
     Royal Caribbean Proposal or the Royal Caribbean Proposal being
     otherwise abandoned;
   * P&O Princess having given a termination notice under Section 9.01 (c)
     of the Joint Venture Agreement or the Joint Venture Agreement having
     been terminated, at no cost (excluding the existing termination amount
     set out in the Implementation Agreement between P&O Princess and Royal
     Caribbean, dated as of 19 November 2001) under Section 9.01 (a); and
   * P&O Princess signing the Implementation Agreement with Carnival and
     recommending the Carnival DLC by no later than 10 January 2003.

In addition, the Panel has ruled that Carnival may not withdraw its Increased Offer unless holders of not less than 10 per cent. of P&O Princess Shares confidentially, and in terms acceptable to the Panel, confirm to the Panel that they would not intend to accept the Increased Offer if Carnival has confirmed to the Panel that such an offer would be made with a non-waivable 90 per cent. acceptance condition and a non-extendable first closing date and in circumstances where: (i) it would not be recommended by the P&O Princess Board; and (ii) if it were to lapse, Carnival would be obliged to proceed with the Carnival DLC Proposal. On the basis that such P&O Princess Shareholder confirmations are received, the Panel has accepted that if the Increased Offer were made in such circumstances, it could not become unconditional because the acceptance condition would not be satisfied and has therefore ruled that the Increased Offer may be withdrawn subject to reinstatement as set out in paragraph 8 of the full text of this announcement.

If the confirmations referred to above are not received by the Panel prior to 10 January 2003, the Carnival DLC Proposal will be withdrawn and Carnival will be obliged to proceed with its Increased Offer. The Carnival DLC Proposal may be withdrawn, and the Increased Offer may be reinstated, before, on or after 10 January 2003, in the circumstances set out in paragraph 8 below. Any reinstatement of the Increased Offer will allow Carnival the normal flexibility to reduce the 90 per cent. acceptance condition and to extend it beyond the first closing date.

Benefits of the proposed combination of Carnival and P&O Princess
   * A combination of Carnival and P&O Princess will create a leading global
     vacation and leisure company with a wide portfolio of complementary
     brands, both by geography and product offering, and will include some
     of the best known and respected cruise brands globally.  The
     combination will allow the Carnival DLC to offer a wider range of
     vacation choices for its customers and will enhance its ability to
     attract customers from land-based vacations to cruise vacations.
   * Under the Carnival DLC the economic interests and incentives of
     Carnival and P&O Princess will be aligned under a unified executive
     management team and identical boards.  Carnival believes that there
     will be significant benefits in sharing the best practices of the
     management teams across the combined enterprise.
   * Carnival expects that the Carnival DLC will generate significant
     synergies to the benefit of both shareholders and customers.  These
     savings are expected to come from the sharing of best practices to
     achieve efficiencies from, inter alia, purchasing, marketing and also
     from rationalising support operations in locations served by both
     companies.  Carnival and P&O Princess have not yet discussed synergies
     in detail and, accordingly, Carnival has not revised its previously
     announced cost saving estimate of at least $100 million on an
     annualised basis, in the first full financial year following completion
     of the transaction.  Carnival has conducted an update of its analysis
     to reconfirm this estimate, further details of which are set out in
     Appendix III.
   * The Carnival DLC will benefit from the financial flexibility of a
     strong operating cash flow and modest leverage, resulting in a strong
     balance sheet and investment grade credit rating.

Approvals required by regulatory authorities
   * Carnival, P&O Princess and their respective advisers have had detailed
     discussions with the Panel regarding the Carnival DLC Proposal.  The
     Panel has consented to the making of this announcement. The Panel has
     confirmed that, on the basis of information currently available to it,
     following establishment of the proposed Carnival DLC, neither P&O
     Princess nor Carnival will be a company to which the Takeover Code
     applies.  Certain of the protections which would apply to shareholders
     under the Takeover Code will be reflected in provisions in the DLC
     Documents.
   * Carnival and its advisers have had detailed discussions with the UKLA
     regarding the Carnival DLC Proposal.  Carnival understands that P&O
     Princess has also had similar discussions with the UKLA.  Based on
     these discussions, Carnival believes, that subject to normal document
     review, the UKLA will approve the issue by P&O Princess of the circular
     to P&O Princess Shareholders convening the P&O Princess EGM.
   * Carnival has received clearance from the EC and the FTC for the
     combination of its business with that of P&O Princess, pursuant to the
     Increased Offer.  Carnival has been advised that the FTC clearance is
     also applicable to a combination accomplished pursuant to the Carnival
     DLC Proposal and, therefore, that Carnival is not required to undergo
     any further regulatory process in the US in relation to the Carnival
     DLC Proposal.  Carnival may be required to submit to the EC a further
     filing for clearance of the combination pursuant to the Carnival DLC
     Proposal.  Carnival has been advised that there is no reason why the
     EC's appraisal of the Carnival DLC Proposal would in any way differ
     from its appraisal of the Increased Offer.  Accordingly, Carnival
     expects to receive a clearance decision from the EC during the first
     quarter of 2003.

Shareholder approval process and timetable
   * Carnival expects that the earliest date on which P&O Princess would
     recommend the Carnival DLC is in early January 2003, and that
     completion would then occur during the first quarter of 2003.
   * The implementation of the Carnival DLC requires the approval of the
     shareholders of Carnival and of P&O Princess.  Carnival expects that
     once the Pre-conditions have been satisfied or waived, appropriate
     documentation will be sent to both P&O Princess Shareholders and
     Carnival Shareholders, which will include further information on the
     proposed combination and which will seek their approval for the
     combination.  The documents will also include a form enabling P&O
     Princess Shareholders to elect for Carnival Shares under the Partial
     Share Offer.
   * Micky Arison and certain entities related to the Arison family have
     entered into undertakings under which they will be required to cause
     shares representing approximately 45 per cent. of the voting rights in
     Carnival to vote in favour of the resolutions to implement the Carnival
     DLC at the requisite Carnival shareholder meeting.  Such undertakings
     are irrevocable except in circumstances where the Carnival DLC Proposal
     is withdrawn or lapses.

Existing Increased Offer
   * Carnival has received consent from the Panel that it will no longer be
     obliged to, and will not, post its Increased Offer to P&O Princess
     Shareholders if the Pre-conditions to the Carnival DLC Proposal are
     satisfied or waived by 10 January 2003, except in specific
     circumstances that have been agreed with the Panel and which are set
     out in paragraph 8 of the full text of this announcement.   Carnival
     will, however, be obliged to proceed with its Increased Offer if the
     Pre-conditions to the Carnival DLC Proposal are neither satisfied nor
     waived by 10 January 2003 or if the confirmations referred to above
     have not been received by the Panel prior to, 10 January 2003.

Back to  the top of the news list

Bernard Kalb to Return to Vietnam on Seabourn Spirit
Veteran Correspondent a 'Dress Circle' Celebrity Guest on March 1, 2003 Cruise

MIAMI, Oct. 24 - From Moscow to Beijing, from Antarctica to Saigon, on the "diplomatic shuttle" to Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Syria, Bernard Kalb traveled the globe for three decades as a correspondent covering world affairs for CBS News, NBC News and The New York Times -- half that time as a foreign correspondent based in Indonesia, Hong Kong, Paris, and Saigon. On March 1, 2003 Kalb will return to Southeast Asia as a special "Dress Circle" guest lecturer on board the ultra luxury cruise ship Seabourn Spirit on a two-week cruise of Vietnam and Thailand.

Beyond experience in both print and television journalism, Kalb has had the unique advantage of seeing the world from "the other side of the podium," having served as Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs and as spokesman for the State Department for almost two years, until his resignation in October 1986 to protest a disinformation program by the Reagan administration. "In his final official act," William Safire wrote in the Times, "Bernard Kalb rose above 'State Department Spokesman' to become the spokesman for all Americans who respect and demand the truth."

The two-week cruise departs Singapore on March 1, 2003, visiting Bangkok and Ko Kood, Thailand; Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Halong Bay and Haiphong (Hanoi), Vietnam enroute to Hong Kong. With Early Booking Savings of 25 percent, fares start from $6,994 per person, based on double occupancy of a 277-square foot Seabourn suite.

In Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by its residents, all guests will enjoy an "Exclusively Seabourn" cocktail reception on the rooftop terrace of the Rex Hotel, scene of the famous "Five O'clock Follies" daily press briefings of correspondents during the Vietnam War.

Bernard Kalb is a veteran journalist, author and media critic on the weekly CNN program "Reliable Sources," which turns a critical lens on the media. Now in its tenth year, it is the only TV program that regularly scrutinizes the media's coverage of major issues.

Over the years, he has been eyewitness to prime-time history. As State Department spokesman, accompanied US delegation when President Reagan held his first summit with Gorbachev in Geneva, 1985. As a TV correspondent, Kalb covered President Nixon's opening trip to China, 1972, and reported on diplomatic journeys of Presidents and Secretaries of State dating back to Nixon and Kissinger. He is also co-author, with brother Marvin Kalb, of "Kissinger," a full selection of the Book of the Month Club; and of "The Last Ambassador," a novel about the collapse of Saigon in 1975.

Seabourn's Dress Circle onboard enrichment program brings celebrated personalities from the worlds of the arts, entertainment, journalism, history, politics, food and wine to join guests on the intimate, all-suite Yachts of Seabourn: Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend. Just as in performing arts facilities around the world, the Dress Circle represents the best seats in the house, so, on The Yachts of Seabourn, the 208 guests enjoy a privileged proximity to these distinguished experts, as they share their journeys to the world's most fascinating destinations.

For more information on The Yachts of Seabourn or Seabourn Spirit's cruises of Vietnam & Thailand, contact a travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


CARNIVAL CONQUEST: JUMBO-SIZED FUN ABOARD NEWEST AND LARGEST 'FUN SHIP' 

MIAMI (10/23/02) - An expansive new teen recreation center housing a high-tech game room and teen dance club/coffee bar, along with new hands-on science and geography activities, a computer lab, and the largest play area in the "Fun Ship" fleet, make the 110,000-ton Carnival Conquest the ultimate family vacation, land or sea. These and other "family-friendly" amenities incorporated into the new 2,974-passenger SuperLiner - the largest "Fun Ship" ever constructed set to debut Nov. 15 - will further bolster the line's distinction as family cruise leader. Carnival is expected to host a record 400,000 kids in 2003, roughly half of the number of children carried by the entire North American cruise industry (CLIA member lines).

"Carnival has earned its position as the number one family cruise choice by providing a fun, high quality vacation experience for adults and kids alike. Carnival Conquest represents the best our industry has to offer, combining our top-rated 'Camp Carnival' children's program with added amenities for teens, an often-overlooked market, to provide kids of all ages with a lifetime of 'Fun Ship' vacation memories," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

New 'Action Alley' Teen Recreation Center
Carnival Conquest is the first Carnival "Fun Ship" to feature a new teen recreation area including a state-of-the-art game room with the latest video and arcade games, and a "mocktail" lounge where teens can relax, socialize and enjoy smoothies, specialty coffees and other non-alcoholic beverages. "Action Alley" will also house a teen dance club with a "video wall" continuously displaying music videos and a DJ spinning the latest hits. Taking its cue from Carnival Conquest's colorful Impressionist-inspired interiors, "Action Alley" is patterned after Paris' infamous Montmartre district with design elements that include exposed brick walls, concert posters, graffiti, building facades and wood fences.

Largest Play Area in 'Fun Ship' Fleet, Other 'Family-Friendly' Features
The focal point of Carnival Conquest's "Camp Carnival" program is "Children's World," an expansive 3,300-square-foot play area, the largest in the "Fun Ship" fleet. Divided into four distinct areas, "Children's World" will house an arts and crafts center with spin and sand art and candy-making machines, an all-ages play room with a variety of toys, games, and puzzles, and kid-sized tables and chairs, a "video room" showing kids' favorite movies and cartoons, and a children's library with youth-oriented books and magazines, along with a computer lab and the latest PlayStation 2 game units. "Children's World" will also serve as the venue for Carnival Conquest's babysitting service, available nightly from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. at a cost of $6 per hour for the first child and $4 per hour for the second child in the same family. Adjacent to "Children's World" will be an outdoor play area and a wading pool, one of four swimming pools aboard Carnival Conquest, which will also feature a 214-foot-long twisting, turning water slide. Stroller rentals will also be available at a cost of $6 per day and $25 per week.

Variety of New Activities, Including New Science Program
New for Carnival Conquest will be an on-board science education program offering kids an opportunity to partake in fun, hands-on science projects and experiments. There will also be a geography program focusing on the cultures and landmarks of the various islands featured on the Carnival Conquest's seven-day western Caribbean cruises. These classes are part of Carnival's "EduCruise" program encompassing a broad range of interactive learning activities taught by trained educational specialists. Kids can also create their own culinary creations through Carnival Conquest's new cake-decorating and pizza-making sessions, part of a full schedule of morning-til-night activities for kids ages 2-15. Sample activities include story telling, sing-a-longs and "Play Dough Fun" for younger cruisers and disco parties, scavenger hunts and pool parties for older kids. "Multi-generational" activities, including family water play and "make-your-own sundae" and arts and craft sessions, will also be available.

Myriad Kid-Friendly Dining Options
Like all "Fun Ships," Carnival Conquest will offer a wide variety of kid-friendly dining choices. In the two-level Restaurant Cezanne, the ship's poolside eatery, kids can enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs and French fries, along with a 24-hour pizzeria and a 24-hour self-serve ice cream/frozen yogurt station where they can prepare their own custom-made sundaes. Children's menus featuring pepperoni pizza, chicken nuggets and a "daily junior special" will also be available in the Monet and Renoir formal dining rooms. Carnival's popular "Fountain Fun Card," which, for a nominal one-time fee, provides guests under age 21 with unlimited soft drinks throughout the duration of the voyage, will be available, as well. Kids sailing aboard Carnival Conquest will also be provided with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies on the first and last night of the voyage, part of the line's fleetwide children's turn-down service. Carnival Conquest's youth counselors will also host special nightly "children's only" meals poolside in the casual Restaurant Cezanne with a different cuisine - Italian, Mexican, Chinese, etc. - featured each night.

Exciting Seven-Day Western Caribbean Itinerary
Beginning Dec. 1, 2002, Carnival Conquest will depart the Port of New Orleans every Sunday on week-long voyages to Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico. Prior to entering year-round seven-day western Caribbean service departing New Orleans every Sunday, Carnival Conquest will operate three special voyages: a four-day cruise to Cozumel departing Nov. 15, a six-day cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel departing Nov. 21, and a four-day Thanksgiving weekend cruise to Cozumel departing Nov. 27. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


WINDSTAR EXTENDS 2003 SAVINGS
2003 Early Booking Savings Available on 174 Cruises Booked By Year End

Seattle, WA, 10/23/02 — Windstar announces that it is extending its early booking program through December 31, 2002. Exceptional savings on each of 174 cruises scheduled to sail in 2003 are now available through Windstar’s "Early Booking Savings" and "Advanced Savings Advantage Program (ASAP)".

Cruises must be booked by Tuesday, December 31, 2002 to take advantage of savings up to $1,000 per couple [Cad$1,450]. Discounts range from $200 to $500 per person, [Cad$290-725]. Cruise rates and discounts vary by departure date and itinerary. Current cruise rates reflect savings of 25 to 60 percent off 2003 brochure tariffs on every cruise aboard the luxury lines fleet of four quixotic sailing yachts.

"We have extended our 2003 savings to encourage everyone to try Windstar’s romantic style of travel. Small ship cruising offers vacationers exclusivity and hassle-free travel to the most desirable destinations — and at a very reasonable price," remarked Tom Russell, vice president of marketing and sales for Windstar Cruises.

Extended savings are available on each of 174 seven- to 14-day cruises throughout 2003. Areas of cruise operation include: Florida and the Bahamas, the Islands of the Lesser Antilles and Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, the Mayan Riviera (Mexico, Belize, and Honduras), Costa Rica’s Pacific "Gold" Coast, and the Panama Canal. Also featured are cruising in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, the Baltics and Northern Europe including the British Isles, Trans-Atlantic, and in Tahiti year-round.

Following are sample cost savings offered by the cruise line:
Windstar’s Caribbean program is a prime example of the lines value-priced vacations. With distinctive itineraries to yachting ports such as Virgin Gorda, St. Barthelemy, Isla Culebra, and Dominica, the 308-passenger Wind Surf offers small ship intimacy with big ship amenities.

Until December 31, 2002, prices for the coming winter season start at US$1,663 [Cad$2,410] for a seven-day Caribbean cruise between St. Thomas and Barbados aboard Wind Surf. On the same itinerary during high season February through April 2003 rates start at US$2,247 [Cad$3,256]. Combined discounts offer 48 to 58 percent off brochure tariffs which start at US$4,110 [Cad$5,957].

Tahiti and her islands will be the playground of the 148-passenger Wind Song throughout 2003. All 7-day sailings visit Tahiti’s heavenly islands of Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea, and Moorea. With early booking savings, rates start at US$2,725 [Cad$3,949], while the bulk of 2003 Tahiti cruises (39) are priced at US$3,101 [Cad$4,495]. Free roundtrip airfare on 13 cruise departures in January, February and March of 2003 is included in the discounted cruise fare, as a value-added bonus. The company offers flights from 78 North American cities.

During the 2003 European summer season the soaring sails of Windstar dominate the timeless Mediterranean and Aegean Seas on 66 different cruises.

Wind Surf and Wind Star ply Mediterranean waters on a variety of 7-day itineraries ranging in price from US$2,612 [Cad$3,786] to US$3,002 [Cad$4,350]. When booked by December 31, 2002, current savings offer 30 to 50 percent off brochure tariffs.

In July and August of 2003, the masted sail yacht (msy) Wind Surf will sail for the first time ever to the Baltics and Northern Europe on a total of eight cruise offerings. Highlights of these cruises include tours to the European capitals of Moscow, Paris, London, Lisbon, Amsterdam, Oslo, Talinn, Helsinki, and Copenhagen, while featuring over 20 maiden port calls.

Wind Surf sails four enticing 10-day cruises roundtrip from Copenhagen, Denmark offering rates starting at US$4,202 [Cad$6,089] until December 31, 2002, a savings of 42 percent off the brochure tariff of US$7,080 [Cad$10,261].

All cruises mentioned above are priced per person based on double-occupancy and include all meals, accommodations and on-board activities. "Windstar Cruises 2003 Voyage Planner" offers a complete overview of 2003 cruise itineraries, dates, and early booking savings on all 174 featured cruises. Rhree in-depth brochures covering Windstar’s prime sailing regions of Tahiti, Caribbean/Central America, and Europe are also available.

Windstar offers a trip cancellation protection program that provides cash back for cancellation for any reason prior to 24-hours before departure. All rates listed above are valid through Tuesday, December 31, 2002. To receive brochures or for more information contact 1-877-827-7245. For reservations contact a travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Sail over to Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Royal Caribbean Reports 3rd Quarter Results

MIAMI - Oct 23, 2002 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced third quarter earnings of $193.5 million or $0.99 per share. This compares to $159.2 million or $0.82 per share for the third quarter of 2001. Included in the third quarter of 2002 is a charge of $20.0 million or $0.10 per share recorded in connection with a previously disclosed potential litigation settlement. Third quarter 2001 earnings were negatively impacted by $36.7 million or $0.19 per share due to lost revenues and costs associated with the September 11 terrorist attacks. Adjusted for these charges, third quarter earnings for 2002 were $213.5 million or $1.09 per share compared to $195.9 million or $1.01 per share for the third quarter 2001.

"We are very pleased to be able to report such a strong improvement in earnings this quarter," said Bonnie S. Biumi, Acting Chief Financial Officer. "Our success on this front has been a combination of careful monitoring of demand by our revenue management department and a strong focus on controlling costs."

Revenues for the quarter were a record high at $1.0 billion, up from $940.7 million in the third quarter of 2001. This increase in revenues was due primarily to a 15.9% increase in capacity for the quarter, partially offset by a decrease in the number of passengers choosing to book airline tickets as part of their vacation package with the company and a slight decline in net yields (net revenue per available passenger cruise day). The percentage of passengers booking air tickets with the company ("air/sea mix") dropped from 20.6% in the third quarter of 2001 to 11.4% this quarter. The drop in the percentage of passengers booking air has a minimal impact on the company's net income, as air tickets are, on average, sold to passengers close to cost. Net yields for the quarter were down 1.7% from the third quarter of 2001.

Operating expenses for the quarter were $601.6 million, up from $529.2 million in the third quarter of 2001, but down 1.9% on a per available passenger cruise day basis. The company believes that changes in running expenses (i.e., those expenses directly associated with shipboard operations) and SG&A to be a more relevant measure of its ability to control costs in a manner that positively impacts the bottom line. For the quarter, comparable running and SG&A expenses (i.e., excluding fuel, the Brilliance of the Seas lease payment and the special charges noted above) were down 4.7% on an available berth day basis. SG&A expenses for the quarter were $102.9 million for the quarter, as compared with $123.5 million for the third quarter of 2001. As previously disclosed, some of the expenses in this area were expected to be incurred in the third quarter, and instead will be incurred in the fourth quarter. The company still expects full-year 2002 SG&A expenses to be between $430 million and $440 million, or down in excess of 15% on a reported available berth day basis.

Customers continue to book their cruises later than in past years and the company has adjusted its expected booking curves correspondingly. For the fourth quarter, bookings continue to meet the company's expectations. The company expects to be able to absorb the impact of the shift in expenses between the third and fourth quarters and still meet the fourth quarter consensus. Management anticipates that yields for the fourth quarter will be up 7% to 9%, with yields for the full year down between 1% and 2%. Full year earnings for 2002 are expected to be in the range of $1.55 to $1.60 per share, including the settlement charge referred to above.

"Given the events of September 11, a weaker economy and double digit increases in capacity, our ability to achieve net yields only slightly below last year is truly remarkable," said Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Richard D. Fain. "We have frequently commented on the strength and resilience of the cruise market. The dramatic recovery of our company and our industry - virtually alone in the travel sector - is confirmation of just how accurate these comments are."

In July, the company added the second of its Radiance-class ships, Brilliance of the Seas, to the Royal Caribbean International fleet. The company has two additional Radiance-class ships, as well as two Voyager-class ships on order. During the quarter, the company slightly modified the delivery schedule for two of its four ships on order. Serenade of the Seas now will be delivered in the third rather than the fourth quarter of 2003 and Mariner of the Seas now will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2003 instead of the first quarter of 2004. As a result, the company now expects total capital expenditures for 2003 to be $1.1 billion and for 2004 to be $0.5 billion. At September 30, 2002, the company's net debt to capital ratio was 54.6% and liquidity was approximately $1.6 billion.

"Our new ships continue to receive high accolades," said Fain. "The recent service modifications on Millennium have received rave reviews from our guests, and we were very pleased when Celebrity was named winner in the ship innovation category by Lloyd's List for building the world's first smokeless gas turbine-powered cruise ship. Superior hardware and service levels have been key in our ability to generate the strong demand that we've been seeing for our two brands."

Looking forward, the booking period for 2003 is underway. Preliminary indications have encouraged management to believe that a return to net yield levels above those achieved in 2001 is likely. The company will provide more detailed guidance as visibility into next year increases.

Separately, the company also said that it expects to incur approximately $30 million in costs related to the proposed combination with P&O Princess. If the transaction is completed as contemplated, these costs, together with additional success fees, will be capitalized as part of the overall transaction. In the event the combination does not occur, these costs will be expensed in the relevant quarter.

The company has scheduled a conference call today to discuss its earnings. This call can be listened to, either live or on a delayed basis, on the company's investor relations web site at www.rclinvestor.com. A slide presentation will accompany the conference call, and is also available for viewing at www.rclinvestor.com.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, with a combined total of 24 ships in service and four under construction or on firm order. The company also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe through its cruise-tour division. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com and  www.celebrity.com. Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements.

Back to  the top of the news list


Celebrity Cruises Launches 'A True Departure' 
Integrated Branding Campaign
With Acclaimed Photographer Mark Seliger, Campaign by Arnold Worldwide Portrays Cruise Line Guests as Celebrities

MIAMI, Oct. 21 -- Celebrity Cruises has launched a major new consumer ad campaign created by Arnold Worldwide, a Boston-based advertising agency owned by Havas. The campaign, tagged "a true departure," communicates the experience of a Celebrity vacation via print and television ads which showcase the line's guests as "celebrities."

"Our target audience--savvy travelers--are discerning guests who know what they want from their vacations," said Celebrity's Senior Vice President of Marketing Steven Hancock. "Our new campaign is distinctive in that it focuses exclusively on our guests and how we work tirelessly to deliver the ultimate premium cruise experience with a taste of luxury."

Arnold enlisted renowned Hollywood photographer Mark Seliger, famed for his 15-year tenure as photographer for Rolling Stone magazine (and now Vanity Fair and GQ), for the campaign, to make "real" people appear famous.

Two-page magazine spreads portray on the left a photograph of a person with a simple, white T-shirt bearing the word, "Celebrity," while the right side of the spread communicates how the Celebrity staff is fully aware of the guest's individual needs. For example, one print execution shows a woman in her 40s, clad in the Celebrity T-shirt, with a list on the opposite page noting her personal preferences, as follows:

1. Sunrise Walk (5:30 a.m. wake-up call) 
2. Tea with Breakfast (Darjeeling, brioche and a sliced tomato) 
3. Table for two/Olympic Dining Room (9:00 p.m.) 
4. Book Milk Ritual Wrap 
5. Martinis (Dirty, 2-3 olives. Montecristo Robusto cigar) 
6. Would like Phalaenopsis orchid in room for duration of stay (square glass vase) 

Television executions feature the same "celebrities" wearing t-shirts, with a background "soundscape" of shipboard staff conversation snippets, such as, "Mr. Marcus would like help unpacking his luggage," and "No turndown service after 8 p.m."

"Our campaign for Celebrity is 'a true departure,' as we do not use any traditional images of ships in the advertising," said Ron Lawner, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer at Arnold Worldwide. "The executions demonstrate that a Celebrity guest will receive exactly what they want, when and how they want it delivered."

The television campaign, which will begin running on cable, includes information on a Celebrity sweepstakes, along with a toll-free number and Celebrity's web address. The winner of the sweepstakes will be awarded a Celebrity cruise once a year for 10 years.

Celebrity's redesigned logo--a new typeface with a dominant 'X'--also is featured in the new campaign to further promote the new brand identity.

The print campaign will break in November publications including Conde Nast Traveler, Travel Holiday, Travel + Leisure, Endless Vacation and National Geographic Traveler. Arnold also created with Celebrity a travel trade campaign which debuted in July.

The highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, Celebrity Cruises' nine-ship fleet is the youngest of any major cruise line. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebrity.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


HOLLAND AMERICA LINE EXPANDS 2003 EUROPE CRUISE PROGRAM TO FOUR SHIPS, OFFERS MORE TRANSATLANTIC SAILINGS 
New ms Oosterdam to Debut in Europe in 2003 

Seattle, October 21, 2002 - Featuring four ships in Europe for 2003, Holland America Line will expand the number of Europe cruises it offers to 43 with itineraries varying from the Mediterranean and Baltic to Northern Europe and transatlantics. Ships include the new 1,848-passenger ms Oosterdam, 1,214-passenger ms Noordam, 794-passenger ms Prinsendam, and 1,316-passenger flagship ms Rotterdam. 

Four ships cruising Europe will also result in more transatlantic cruises in 2003 - a total of seven featuring both north and south Atlantic routes. Six sailings range from 12 to 16 days, and the seventh is a new 33-day "collector's cruise" aboard the Rotterdam sailing roundtrip from New York to Greenland, Iceland, Scandinavia and Russia. 

Offering attractive variety, lengthy time in ports, and all-inclusive value pricing, Holland America will feature a wide selection of 10-, 12- and 14-day Europe cruises with departures from Apr. 28 to Nov. 7, 2003. The new 1,848-passenger Oosterdam will sail its maiden voyage July 10 on a 12-day "Viking & Czars" Northern Europe cruise from London to Copenhagen. 

"Our 2003 program is designed to appeal to discerning cruise guests who want to experience Europe in-depth - whether it be Western Europe, Western Mediterranean or Baltic/Scandinavia," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Art and history lovers in particular will enjoy the culturally rich variety of ports and cities. Oosterdam Debuts in Northern Europe with More Verandahs Holland America's new 1,848-passenger Oosterdam debuts July 10 on its 12-day maiden voyage from London to Copenhagen, calling at eight ports in the countries of Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Germany, Denmark and Norway. "When the 1,848-passenger Oosterdam, second of the Vista class ships, joins the fleet next July it will boast the highest passenger space ratio of Holland America's ships at 46, keeping the company firmly placed as the leader in premium cruising," said Giersdorf. 

The Oosterdam will feature innovative "exterior elevators," located on both sides of the vessel and vertically traversing 10 decks, providing guests with panoramic sea views. The ship includes a wide range of spacious accommodation categories. About 85 percent of the staterooms feature an ocean view, with approximately 80 percent of those offering private verandahs. The 951-foot-long ship builds upon the hallmarks of the Holland America brand, displaying extensive multi-million-dollar art collections and a signature Waterford Crystal installation in the ship's atrium. 

The vessel features numerous dining options, from elegant full-service meals to casual Lido Restaurant service. The ship also 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 Oosterdam also will offer a new "cabaret-style" show lounge complementing a new three-deck main show lounge. Other new features include a nightclub, the casual "round-the-clock" Windstar 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, and a concierge lounge for the exclusive use of Penthouse and Deluxe Verandah Suite guests. 

The Oosterdam sails a total of six Baltic cruises between London and Copenhagen with departures through Sept. 8. Its 12-day itinerary includes Oslo, Norway; Arhus, Denmark; Warnemunde, Germany; Visby, Sweden; Estonia; St. Petersburg; Helsinki; and Stockholm. Cruise-only fares start at US$2,699 [CAN $3,919] per person. Next the Oosterdam offers a 12-day "European Capitals" cruise from London to Rome Sept. 20, followed by four Western Mediterranean sailings between Rome-Lisbon or Venice-Lisbon Oct. 2, 14, 26 and Nov. 7. The remarkable "European Capitals" cruise highlights the history-steeped cities of Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, Lisbon, Seville and Monte Carlo. Cruise-only fares start at US$2,579 [CAN $3,739] per person. The Oosterdam concludes its Europe cruise season with a 14-day transatlantic sailing Nov. 19 from Lisbon to Ft. Lauderdale. Fares start at US$1,589 [CAN $2,299] per person. 

Elegant Explorer - ms Prinsendam
Features New Ireland-Iceland Cruise Holland America's 794-passenger Prinsendam offers a more intimate cruising experience with five, 14-day cruises in Western and Northern Europe departing July 8 through Sept. 2. The ship sails mainly between Amsterdam and Copenhagen, featuring both popular ports in Scandinavia and Russia and an exciting new "Ireland & Ice" itinerary. This unusual cruise departs Amsterdam July 22 to visit Dover, England (Canterbury, Leeds Castle, London tour options); Guernsey, Channel Islands; Cobh (Cork), Ireland (Blarney Castle, Kilarney, Waterford Crystal tour options); Douglas, Isle of Man; Belfast, Ireland (Giant's Causeway tour option); Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Herbrides; Reykjavik, Iceland (Kulusuk, Greenland tour options); Akureyri, Iceland; Torshaven, Faroe Islands; Kirkwall, Orkney Islands; Kristiansand, Norway; and Copenhagen. Fares start at US$3,679 [CAN $5,329] per person. The Prinsendam also features three 14-day Baltic sailings sailing between Copenhagen and Amsterdam or London on August 5 and 19 and September 2. Ports of call on these departures vary for each date and may include Stavanger and Vik, Norway; Skagen, Denmark Ystad, Stockholdm and Kalmar, Sweden; Gdansk,Poland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tallinn, Estonia; Riga, Latvia; Warnemunde and the Kiel Canal, Germany; and Helsinki, Finland. Prices start at US$3,569 [CAN$5,169] per person. The Prinsendam completes its Europe season with an 11-day transatlantic cruise departing Lisbon Sept. 20 for Boston. Fares start at US$2,159 [CAN $3,129] per person. 

New 33-Day Rotterdam Cruise 
Holland America's flagship, the 1,316-passenger Rotterdam, adds a most extraordinary cruise in 2003: the new 33-day "North Atlantic Odyssey." This "collector's cruise" sails roundtrip from New York Aug. 15, crossing the Arctic Circle, sailing spectacularly scenic areas and calling at several remote ports. The unusual itinerary includes St. John, Newfoundland; Illulissat, Sisimiut and Nuuk, Greenland; Reykjavik, Iceland; Lerwick, Shetland Islands; Copenhagen, Denmark; Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Arhus, Denmark; and Cobh, Ireland. Cruise-only fares start at US$7,199 [CAN $10,429] per person. The Rotterdam also sails two 16-day transatlantic cruises: July 12 from Boston to Rotterdam and July 30 from Rotterdam to New York. Each visits Greenland, Iceland, and Ireland, plus Scotland, England, France. Fares start at US$3,289 [CAN $4,769] per person. 

Noordam Leads with 20 Europe Cruises 
"The 1,214-passenger Noordam offers the best value in European cruising. Guests visit more ports and experience a greater 'slice' of Europe for their money, especially if they book our Early Savings program," said Giersdorf. "In 2003 they can choose from a total of 20 Western Mediterranean, European capitals or Baltic cruises, plus two transatlantic sailings." The classic Noordam begins the season with a 15-day transatlantic sailing Apr. 13 from Tampa to Lisbon, Portugal. Then it begins a series of 10-day spring/fall Western Mediterranean and 10-day summer Baltic sailings, interspersed with two 14-day "European Capitals" cruises. A perennially popular itinerary is "Gems of the Baltic," featuring roundtrip departures from Copenhagen June 11, and 21; July 1, 11, 21 and 31; Aug. 10, 20 and 30. Guests cruise the Baltic Sea to Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia (a two-day stay with Moscow tour option); Helsinki, Finland (Lapland tour option); Stockholm, Sweden; Kalmar, Sweden (Orresfors tour option); Warnemunde, Germany (Berlin tour option); Arhus, Denmark. With Holland America's Early Savings program, cruise-only fares start at just US$1,799 [CAN $2,629] per person, double occupancy, including port charges. On either side of its Baltic sailings, the Noordam offers one-way, 14-day "European Capitals" cruises from Rome to Copenhagen May 28 and Copenhagen to Rome Sept. 9. The Noordam also sails the majority of the 2003 Western Mediterranean cruises, offering four itineraries between Lisbon, Rome or Barcelona with departures Apr. 28; May 8, 18; Sept. 23; Oct. 3, 13 and 23; Nov. 2 and 12. For example, the "Mediterranean Mosaic" itinerary departs Rome for Barcelona, calling at Dubrovnik, Croatia; Corfu, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Palermo, Sicily, Italy; Mahon, Minorca, Spain; St. Tropez, France; Sete, France (Carcassonne, Nimes tour options). Cruise-only fares start at US$1,399 [CAN $2,029] per person. 

About Holland America Line 
In 2003, Holland America's fleet of twelve five-star, premium ships will offer 448 premium cruises to all seven continents and will sail from 14 North American home ports. The line offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure. Beginning with the ms Zuiderdam this fall, by 2006 the company will be increasing its capacity by 73 percent -- and its fleet to a total of 15 ships -- with the introduction of five new 85,000-ton, 1,848-passenger Vista Class ships, the largest ever built for Holland America Line. The highest-rated premium cruise line in the world in the 2002 "Travel & Leisure" magazine "World's Best" Awards, Holland America is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance. For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


New Carnival Legend to Arrive at Port of Philadelphia

WHAT: Arrival of the 88,500-ton, 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend, Carnival Cruise Lines' newest "Fun Ship," which will host a VIP gala event dockside, then operate a six-day Bermuda cruise from the Port of Philadelphia. Carnival Legend will be the newest and largest cruise ship ever to sail from the Port of Philadelphia. The new 2,124-passenger vessel will serve as the venue for a black-tie gala event dockside for 2,000 travel agents and dignitaries Oct. 22, then sail on a six-day Bermuda cruise Oct. 23. 

Carnival Legend will return to Philadelphia for two more six-day Bermuda cruises in spring and fall 2003. The departures from Philadelphia are part of Carnival's marketing strategy, which entails positioning ships near large U.S. population bases to provide consumers with a greater variety of embarkation points. The "cruising closer to home" concept is in response to Americans' growing preference for homeports within convenient driving distance of their hometowns. 

More than three football fields in length, Carnival Legend houses 12 passenger decks with 16 lounges and bars, four swimming pools, a corkscrew water slide, Internet cafe, 14,500-square-foot health spa, nine-deck-high atrium, duty-free shopping mall, wedding chapel, video arcade, and an 1,800-square-foot children's play area, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program. Three restaurants, including an expansive poolside eatery featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives and a 24-hour pizzeria, a two-level 1,250-seat full-service dining room and an intimate supper club offering prime aged beef, along with crab claws from Miami Beach's world famous Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant, are available, as well. 

WHERE: Philadelphia Cruise Terminal, Pier 1, at the Philadelphia Naval Business Center.

Back to  the top of the news list


NEW UPPER PREMIUM CRUISE LINE FORMED

Miami, Oct. 2002 – Experienced cruise executives, Frank Del Rio and Joe Watters announced today the formation of Oceana Cruises. The Company also announced that it has reached agreement with Cruiseinvest LLC, subject to final Board approvals, on a long-term charter agreement with purchase options for up to three R-class vessels formerly operated by Renaissance Cruises. 

The two executives will share management responsibilities with Watters being named Chairman and Del Rio President and CEO. Oceana Cruises will be headquartered in Miami with Watters heading up the west coast office in Los Angeles.

“Joe and I are ecstatic about the opportunity to work together on founding the first Cruise Line of the new millennium,” said Del Rio. Watters added, “My interest in being a part of this new line was predicated on creating a high quality cruise product that will have great appeal. Also, we will be a line that will work closely and well with the travel agent community.”

“Our best in class cuisine, itineraries, travel agent support and outstanding value will define Oceana Cruises’ five-star product and quickly position the company as the cruise of choice for traditional premium and luxury category cruisers”, noted Del Rio.

Del Rio and Watters will be in Marseille during the week of October 14th for meetings aboard the ships.

Morten Arntzen, CEO of American Marine Advisors and advisor to Cruiseinvest, said “Oceana Cruises is just what the cruise industry needs and is a perfect fit for the R-vessels.  We are very impressed by Oceana Cruises’ management team, business plan, and the quality of the investor group. Oceana Cruises has the right mix for a winning team.”

For additional information, contact Oceana Cruises in Miami at (305) 789-9390.

Back to  the top of the news list


Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Appoints Director of Industry Relations for Alaska, Hawaii and Western Canada

MIAMI, Oct. 17 -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has appointed Don Habeger as the cruise company's new director of Industry Relations for Alaska, Hawaii, and Western Canada.

Habeger, who will work out of Juneau, Alaska, will act as a liaison between the company's two brands, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, and government, cruise industry, and other organizations that interact with the company along the Pacific coast.

"We are very fortunate to have Don join our organization," said John Fox, vice president of Industry Relations for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "Don has more than a decade of experience in the cruise industry and is well aware of the issues involving our business in Alaska, Hawaii and Western Canada."

Since 1985, Habeger has worked for Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska, formerly known as Southeast Stevedoring Corporation. In 1990, he was appointed the company's Port Manager in Juneau. Prior to that, Habeger taught grade school and high school science courses and worked in the residential construction industry. He moved to Juneau in 1979, after graduating from North Central University, in Minnesota.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, with a combined total of 24 ships in service and four under construction or on firm order. The company also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe through its cruise-tour division. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com & www.celebritycruises.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Celebrity Cruises Honored for World's First Gas Turbine Cruise Ship

MIAMI, Oct. 17 -- Celebrity Cruises has been honored by Lloyd's List for building the world's first smokeless gas turbine- powered cruise ship. The recognition came during Lloyd's biennial Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology (SMM) International Trade Fair in Hamburg, Germany. The event concluded with the presentation of the Lloyd's List-SMM 2002 Awards. The SMM Awards recognize cutting-edge marine technology and ingenuity that improve performance, reduce costs, and protect the environment. Awards were presented for excellence and innovation in merchant shipbuilding, merchant marine technology and machinery, and naval shipbuilding and marine technology. London-based Lloyd's List is a leading publication of maritime business news and information.

Of the 13 awards presented, Celebrity's Millennium was the winner in the Innovation in Shipbuilding -- Passenger Ship category. Millennium was recognized for being the world's first cruise ship to incorporate smokeless gas-turbine engines. The smokeless gas-turbine engines burn a cleaner fuel than traditional diesel, and significantly reduce air emissions by more than 90 percent.

"Celebrity has an outstanding history of environmental achievement and we are very proud to be recognized for our use of smokeless gas-turbine technology," said Jack Williams, president and chief operating officer of Celebrity Cruises. "Millennium and her sister ships, Infinity, Summit, and Constellation, have raised the bar for the entire cruise industry in terms of environmental stewardship of our oceans."

Celebrity's sister cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, also operates a class of smokeless gas-turbine-powered ships. Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas, which belong to the brand's Radiance class, are its first gas-turbine ships to enter service. Two additional Radiance-class ships will enter service by the end of 2004, Serenade of the Seas in 2003 and Jewel of the Seas in 2004.

Millennium was built by the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, and delivered to Celebrity in June 2000. The 1,950-guest, 91,000-ton Millennium was the largest ship ever built in France and was the first of four state-of-the-art, Millennium-class ships Celebrity has brought into service.

Millennium is powered by a General Electric LM2500+-based Combined Gas turbine and steam turbine integrated Electric drive System (COGES). A COGES arrangement is very energy efficient. Energy that otherwise would be lost in the exhaust from the two LM2500+ gas turbines is captured to produce steam from an exhaust gas boiler for the steam turbine. This gas turbine-based system powers electric motors that move the ship through the water. The COGES configuration also provides for all on-board power needs. The gas turbines cut nitrous oxide emissions by up to 80 percent and sulfur oxide emissions by up to 98 percent. The engines also reduce noise and vibration, offering guests the ultimate in cruising comfort.

An assessment committee selected as many as eight finalists in each of the 13 award categories. Final judging was done by an international panel that included William O'Neil, secretary-general, International Marine Organization; Simon Rickaby, president, Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology; Joseph Cuneo, president, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers; John Young, president, European Marine Equipment Council; and Alan Gavin, chairman, International Association of Classification Societies.

The highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, Celebrity Cruises' nine-ship fleet is the youngest of any major cruise line. Celebrity Cruises sails in Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and South America, in addition to California and the Mexican Riviera in 2003. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at celebrity.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


CARNIVAL TAKES TOP HONORS IN PORTHOLE CRUISE MAGAZINE'S 2002 'READERS CHOICE AWARDS'

MIAMI (10/17/02) - Carnival once again was the big winner in Porthole Cruise Magazine's annual "Readers' Choice Awards," taking top honors in nine different categories - the most awards of any cruise line for the fourth consecutive year. The awards were determined from on-line and mail-in surveys from thousands of Porthole readers, who rated cruise lines' various amenities, programs and activities. Carnival's nine "Readers' Choice" awards include: 

* Best Value Line 
* Best Moderately Priced Line 
* Best Alternative Dining 
* Best Average Spacious Cabins 
* Best Children's Program 
* Best Entertainment 
* Best On-Board Activities 
* Best Discos 
* Best Party Line 

Since being introduced in 1999, Carnival has won 40 Porthole "Readers' Choice" awards - more than any other cruise line during this period.

"Porthole readers are extremely experienced and knowledgeable cruisers and for them to recognize Carnival in such a wide range of categories - everything from a top cruise value to having the cruise industry's best entertainment, on-board activities, alternative dining and children's program - is very gratifying indeed," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "Carnival takes great pride in earning its position as the world's most popular cruise line and to receive these accolades from Porthole readers year after year speaks volumes about the quality and value that a 'Fun Ship' cruise provides," he added. 

Commented Bill Panoff, Porthole Cruise Magazine's editor-in-chief, "Carnival again proves itself as a leader in the cruise industry and a favorite among the cruise consumer in all categories." 

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 17 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 16 days in length to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England and Bermuda. The line currently has five new ships with an estimated value of $2.3 billion scheduled to enter service between now and 2005. The first of these, the 110,000-ton Carnival Conquest, the largest "Fun Ship" ever constructed, is set to debut from New Orleans Nov. 15.

Back to  the top of the news list


Silversea Cruises Extends Simplicity Pricing Program 
to Select 2003 Voyages

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Oct. 15, 2002 -- Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises announced today that it has extended its highly successful Simplicity Pricing program to include 50 voyages scheduled between January 3 through June 10, 2003. Simplicity Pricing is an extraordinary savings program that allows guests to save up to 50% off the cruise-only fares of Vista and Veranda Suites. Silversea's 2003 voyages that are now available for savings include the highly desired cruise regions of the Caribbean, South America, South Pacific, Australia/New Zealand, Mediterranean, and Africa.

The extension of the savings program is designed to encourage continued numbers of guests to enjoy Silversea's award-winning cruise experience. Under the Simplicity Pricing program, Silversea has set a pre-assigned, easy-to-understand, savings amount to particular voyages. Depending on the voyage selected, guests can purchase cruise-only Vista and Veranda Suites at savings of up to 50%. Simplicity Pricing is subject to availability and is valid for all new cruise bookings made by January 31, 2003, and is not applicable to land, hotel and air programs.

Since the launch of Simplicity Pricing in May of this year for voyages in the second half of 2002, the program has earned overwhelming popularity and success among travel agents and consumers. As a result, the company has decided to extend Simplicity Pricing for selected 2003 voyages.

"Silversea recently experienced one of its most successful Mediterranean seasons ever and we attribute the strong business to the huge customer appeal of Simplicity Pricing," said Albert Peter, Silversea's Chief Executive Officer. "Consumers are anxious to get back to traveling, and special incentives and promotions are working well to entice consumers in today's new travel environment."

Added Peter, "Silversea's new Simplicity Pricing program is being responsive to the changing demands of the marketplace, but at the same time making it easier for travelers to see the value of a Silversea vacation when compared to other luxury cruise options. The cruise-only nature of Simplicity Pricing also allows guests to customize their cruise vacations while realizing tremendous savings."

Silversea is still seeing an increase of guests confirming travel plans closer to departure than in the past. The entire travel industry is finding solutions and ways to adjust to this growing trend. Silversea anticipates the extension of its Simplicity Pricing program will entice travelers to fully commit to 2003 vacation plans sooner.

A small sample of the 2003 voyages available for savings under Simplicity Pricing is as follows:

  • $1,895 per person for 6 days aboard Silver Whisper. Depart from Colon, Panama, on April 6, 2003, and sail to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Ports of call include George Town (Grand Cayman), Montego Bay (Jamaica), and La Romana (Dominican Republic). Voyage #4306 - 50% Savings.
  • $2,095 per person for 7 days aboard Silver Cloud. Depart from Oranjestad, Aruba, on January 19, 2003, and sail to Bridgetown, Barbados. Ports of call include Scarborough (Tobago), St. Georges (Grenada), Roseau (Dominica), Pointe a Pitre (Guadeloupe), and Castries (St. Lucia). Voyage #1303 - 50% Savings.
  • $2,695 per person for 9 days aboard Silver Cloud. Depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 3, 2003, and sail to Colon, Panama. Ports of call are Key West, Cozumel, Belize City, San Andres Island (Colombia), and Puerto Limon (Costa Rica). Voyage #1301 - 50% Savings.
  • $2,895 per person for 9 days aboard Silver Cloud. Depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 18, 2003, and sail to Bridgetown, Barbados. Ports of call include Oranjestad (Aruba), Bonaire (Netherlands Antilles), Caracas (Venezuela), St. Georges (Grenada), St. Johns (Antigua), and Castries (St. Lucia). Voyage #1309 - 50% Savings.
  • $2,995 per person for 7 days aboard Silver Shadow. Depart from Mahe, Seychelles, on March 20, 2003, and sail to Mombassa, Kenya. Ports of call include La Digue (Seychelles), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), and Zanzibar (Tanzania). Voyage #3307 - 30% Savings.
  • $4,195 per person for 9 days aboard Silver Whisper. The America's Cup Voyage: Guests can enjoy all the excitement of The America's Cup as the ship follows the races and regatta festivities. Round-trip cruise departing Auckland, New Zealand, on February 14, 2003. Ports of call include Kawau Island (New Zealand), Bay of Islands (New Zealand), and Tauranga (New Zealand). Voyage #4303 - 35% Savings.
  • $4,795 per person for 10 days aboard Silver Shadow. Depart from Buenos Aires, Argentina, on January 3, 2003, and sail to Ushuaia, Argentina. Ports of call include Buenos Aires (Argentina), Montevideo (Uruguay), Punta del Este (Uruguay), and Punta Arenas (Chile). Voyage #3301A - 25% Savings.

Note: Above rates are per person, cruise-only, new guest prices for "Vista Suites" after Simplicity Pricing discount. Additional discounts may apply for Silversea's Venetian Society members.

For full terms and conditions on Silversea's Simplicity Pricing program, consumers are encouraged to contact their travel agent. Further details of the Simplicity Pricing program and applicable savings for voyages are available online at www.silversea.com.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard intimate vessels designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. The recent launch of all-suite luxury sister ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper continues Silversea's award-winning service excellence and sophistication with new features and amenities aboard vessels catering to just 382 guests. For the sixth consecutive year, Silversea Cruises was named best small-ship line in the 2001 readers' survey conducted by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. For the fourth time, Silversea was selected "Number One" small-ship line in Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2002.

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a travel agent. For a complimentary brochure, please call (800) 774-9996 or visit www.silversea.com.

Back to  the top of the news list


Two Great Escapes From Two Coasts; Royal Caribbean Adds New Options From Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles to Summer Lineup

MIAMI, Oct. 15 -- Royal Caribbean International is offering vacationers even more reason to escape for a long weekend or quick weekday getaway starting next spring, as Enchantment of the Seas and Monarch of the Seas take on new itineraries on either coast.

The 1,950-passenger Enchantment of the Seas will begin sailing four- and five-night cruises to the Western Caribbean from its home port of Fort Lauderdale in May, while the 2,350-passenger Monarch of the Seas will move to Los Angeles in early June to begin sailing three- and four-night itineraries to Baja, Mexico -- six months earlier than originally planned.

"Los Angeles has historically been a strong market for us," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, marketing and sales, Royal Caribbean International. "We're excited to return next year, bigger and better, by offering cruises to Baja, Mexico, onboard Monarch of the Seas, which will be the largest cruise ship in the Los Angeles market."

"Additionally, we are happy to be able to provide another great short vacation option out of Florida next spring on the Enchantment of the Seas, currently offering seven-night Caribbean vacations out of Ft. Lauderdale," he continued. "Enchantment will be the most modern and innovative ship taking vacationers on short cruises from that port."

Enchantment of the Seas will depart Ft. Lauderdale on a rotating, two-week schedule of four- and five-night cruises. Four-night cruises depart every other Thursday, starting May 22, with stops in Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico. On alternate Mondays, beginning May 26, guests can take five-night adventures to Key West, Cozumel, and Belize City, Belize. Every other Saturday, starting May 31, Enchantment of the Seas departs for five-night cruises to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and George Town, Grand Cayman, with two days at sea to enjoy her onboard amenities. Fares start at $489 per person, double occupancy.

Beginning June 2, Monarch of the Seas will depart Los Angeles on Mondays and Fridays, offering four-night cruises with stops in Ensenada, Mexico, San Diego and Catalina Island, and three-night cruises with a call in Ensenada. Fares start at $399 per person, double occupancy.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 15 ships in service and four more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700 for reservations.

Back to  the top of the news list


CARNIVAL TO CONTINUE 'RUSTY WALLACE CRUISE' SERIES IN 2003

Exclusive Question-and-Answer and Autograph Sessions, 'Racing-Themed' Raffles and Giveaways Highlight Seven-Day Caribbean Cruise Aboard Carnival Victory 

MIAMI (10/16/02) - Carnival Cruise Lines has again partnered with NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace to host another of its popular "racing-themed" voyages in 2003, this time aboard the 102,000-ton Carnival Victory. The seven-day western Caribbean voyage, the fifth in the "Rusty Wallace Cruise" series, will depart Miami Dec. 7, 2003, and visit Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Another "Rusty Wallace Cruise" aboard Carnival Triumph from Miami departing Dec. 7, 2002, to San Juan, St. Thomas/St. John and St. Maarten is selling well but still has space available. 

"Since being introduced last year, Carnival's 'Rusty Wallace Cruises' have been enormously popular, attracting racing fans from across the country who want to spend their vacation sailing with their favorite NASCAR driver. We're very pleased to team up with Rusty again for the fifth in this highly successful series," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. 

During the week-long voyage aboard Carnival Victory, each "Rusty Wallace Cruise" participant will enjoy a number of exclusive, invitation-only activities, including a one-hour question-answer session, an autograph session, a private cocktail reception, and photo opportunities with Wallace featuring a unique racing-themed backdrop. Other events include a Rusty Wallace look-a-like contest, "racing-themed" raffles and giveaways, trivia contests and a scavenger hunt. A variety of prizes will be awarded, including an opportunity to be an honorary member of Wallace's pit crew, complimentary pit and garage passes and autographed racing memorabilia. Participants will also have the opportunity to win "Dinner with Rusty" one night during the cruise. 

The first 100 guests to book their "Rusty Wallace Cruise" aboard Carnival Victory will each receive a "goody bag" with an assortment of racing-themed logo items and merchandise. Rusty Wallace is one of the most recognizable names in racing, with more than 50 NASCAR Winston Cup wins in his legendary career. 

In addition to the various racing-themed activities, "Rusty Wallace Cruise" participants will also enjoy the Carnival Victory's numerous "Fun Ship" amenities and facilities, including full casino gambling, a 15,000 square foot health club, an Internet café, an on-board golf program, a duty-free shopping mall, and four swimming pools, one with a 214-foot-long water slide. A complimentary children's program, "Camp Carnival," with supervised activities for kids ages 2-15, is also available. 

The 2,758-passenger Carnival Victory, which entered service in 2000, also houses 18 lounges and bars, as well as an array of dining venues ranging from a pair of two-level formal restaurants to an expansive poolside eatery offering breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives, a 24-hour pizzeria, a New York-style deli and Asian and American specialty areas. Prices for the 2003 "Rusty Wallace Cruise" aboard Carnival Victory begin at $579 per person based on double occupancy. Round-trip air supplements and special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available.

Reservations for the "Rusty Wallace Cruises" can be obtained through any travel agent or by calling 1-800-CARNIVAL. Participants must reference fare code CPRW when making a reservation to be eligible for the invitation-only events taking place on these voyages. Information on Carnival's "Fun Ship" cruises can also be obtained on line at www.carnival.com. Membership information for the Rusty Wallace Fan Club and details on the upcoming "racing-themed" voyages are available through www.rustywallace.com or by visiting Wallace's souvenir trailers on race days.

Back to  the top of the news list


Unless otherwise noted, all news items are sourced by individual cruise lines, cruise-related industries, and their agents.


Cruise Diva Home | Site Map & Search