Cruise News
February 1-28, 2011
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Carnival Cruise Lines Announces Winning Couple for
Cooper River Bridge Run 2011 Wedding
Charleston, SC, Feb 28: Charleston residents Andy Cook and Tina Berwanger have been chosen as the winning couple in Carnival Cruise Lines’ Race to the Altar contest and will receive the FIRST ever Cooper River Bridge Run wedding in Marion Square - a FIRST for Charleston, a FIRST for the Run, and a FIRST for Carnival!
Carnival launched a nationwide search and invited couples to submit an application for a chance to be the first to tie the knot in Marion Square, after racing to the altar in the 2011 Cooper River Bridge Run. The winning couple was selected from dozens of finalists based on their inspiring personal story, creativity of their submission, and their overall enthusiasm for the opportunity. Carnival Cruise Lines’ Race to the Altar fundraiser will benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital as part of a year-long partnership. The fundraiser will occur at the Finish Festival where, for every Carnival slushy served, $1 will be donated to the hospital, up to $10,000.
“We are truly excited to give Tina and Andy a wedding to remember and to inject some fantastic, Carnival-style fun and excitement into their very special day,” said Jim Berra, chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Lines. “The festivities will not only be meaningful for the bride and groom, but for everyone at the Finish Festival who comes by and joins us for a celebratory slushy in a champagne cup to help raise funds for the MUSC Children’s Hospital.”
Andy and Tina will be the first couple to ever be married in Marion Square after running the Cooper River Bridge Run. In addition, they will also receive:
• First dance at the Cooper River Bridge Run Finish Festival in front of family, friends and 40,000 fellow runners
• Honeymoon in an ocean view stateroom on a 5-day Bahamas cruise aboard Carnival Cruise Lines’ Fantasy
About the Couple: Andy Cook, originally from Greensboro, NC, met Tina Berwanger, originally from Winston-Salem, NC, while taking a class together in college. In the time they have dated, they have been through a lot together, including a life changing commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Together, Andy and Tina have lost 115 pounds through diet and exercise. They motivate each other and have taken on this lifestyle change as a team. On April 2, Andy and Tina will Race to the Altar at the 2011 Cooper River Bridge Run, symbolizing their commitment to their healthy lifestyle as they commit to each other.
Carnival Cruise Lines’ sponsorship of the Cooper River Bridge Run and the Race to the Altar fundraiser are part of Carnival’s year-long partnership with MUSC Children’s Hospital. Funds raised during the Bridge Run through participation of the Charleston public will be donated by Carnival to MUSC Children’s Hospital. The partnership includes several in-kind and monetary donations and fundraisers, as well as bringing smiles and fun to the patients of the MUSC Children’s Hospital with quarterly visits by Carnival Fantasy crew members.
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Celebrity Cruises Expands Premium Culinary Offerings
MIAMI, Feb 25: The dining experience has always been central to a Celebrity Cruises vacation, and the line has proven it once again with its latest culinary introductions: an authentic, world-class high tea experience called “Champagne High Tea,” and industry-first premium kosher meals.
“We know how precious consumers’ vacation time is, and we’re committed to offering an exceptional dining experience to make those rare vacations even more special,” said Celebrity’s Vice President of Culinary Operations Jacques Van Staden. “Our Champagne High Tea is designed in the tradition of the most highly regarded afternoon tea experiences in the world.”
Celebrity’s Champagne High Tea takes place once on every 7-night sailing, and at least twice on an 8-night or longer cruise. Held in Celebrity’s highly acclaimed, elegant specialty restaurants, amidst live music performed by a string quartet, the event’s delectable selections include premium Forte’ teas; Lavazza coffees, including espressos, lattes and cappuccino; savory sandwiches and desserts – including pastries, scones, truffles and pate de fruit – all served on Wedgewood china and in Riedel Crystal. Celebrity’s Champagne High Tea cover charge of $25 per person – an exceptional value when compared with land-based high tea experiences – includes all culinary selections and a glass of champagne. Reservations for Celebrity’s Champagne High Tea can be made onboard by dialing the ship’s “dining reservation” number. The experience, in addition to the line’s longtime, complimentary tea service in the main dining room, is offered across the Celebrity fleet, with the exception of Celebrity Xpedition, the line’s megayacht sailing year-round in the Galapagos Islands.
Meanwhile, for guests interested in kosher meals, Celebrity has introduced another industry first: premium kosher meals, offered as an option amidst the brand’s vast array of other dining selections. Among Celebrity’s premium kosher entrees are herb-roasted salmon, BBQ quartered chicken, beef brisket, citrus-glazed chicken breast, and citrus-glazed tilapia, while breakfast items include traditional lox and bagels, Belgian waffles, wild mushroom omelettes, or pancakes. Kosher wines and champagne also are available, with Celebrity’s highly skilled sommeliers poised to offer recommendations. All selections are Glatt Kosher certified and made from scratch in kosher kitchens under the strict supervision of the O.U. and USDA. Celebrity’s premium kosher meals are available for a fee, and the line’s more limited, complimentary kosher selections will continue to be offered. Vacationers interested in kosher meals are asked to notify Celebrity of their interest 60 days in advance of departure. Guests participating in the premium kosher program then can make their specific menu selections for each day onboard, 24 hours in advance of dining.
Guests with bookings on any Celebrity vacation are invited to submit requests for kosher meals or any special dietary needs in advance of their cruise, by contacting , or calling 1-800-722-5242, ext. 34492.
Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of the world’s top-rated premium cruise line, with spacious, stylish interiors; dining experiences elevated to an art form; personalized service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 2:1; unexpected, trendsetting onboard activities, all designed to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity sails to Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. One of the fastest-growing major cruise lines, Celebrity’s fleet currently consists of 10 ships, with two additional Solstice Class ships scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Silhouette in July 2011, and Celebrity Reflection in Fall 2012. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit www.celebritycruises.com
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Seabourn's Summer Europe Cruises Offer New Features
MIAMI, Feb 24: Top-rated Seabourn will have all six of its intimate, award-winning ships in Europe this year, sailing itineraries of different lengths in destinations as diverse as the majestic fjords of Norway, the glamorous resorts of the French Riviera, gorgeous Greek and Dalmatian isles and the opulent czarist palaces of the Ukraine's Black Sea coast. The good news for travelers is that the entire season is being offered at Seabourn Value Fares, saving them up to 50 percent off brochure fares, and numerous back-to-back opportunities add even more value.
"Virtually our entire Mediterranean season is crafted into seven-day voyages," noted Seabourn President Richard D. Meadows. "These are enchanting on their own," he continued, "and you can also combine them for two, three or up to four weeks of superb cruising, visiting a completely different set of ports and saving an extra 10 percent off the fares."
Travelers can enjoy the remarkably inclusive Seabourn cruise experience--complimentary open bars throughout the voyage, superb dining, gracious, personalized service and spacious, all-suite accommodations--plus exceptional delivery of desirable destinations, all for less than they would pay for a four-star hotel room alone.
Making its debut in June, the new 450-guest Seabourn Quest will spend the summer navigating the wildly popular Greek Isles and Turkish coast between Istanbul and Athens, alternating with another week in the breathtaking Dalmatian islands and on the Adriatic coast to Venice. Quest's sister Seabourn Odyssey will sail the same series of voyages on alternate weeks, allowing travelers the widest possible choice of departure dates on which to explore these superb destinations aboard one of the most acclaimed ships in the world.
Seabourn Legend will be mingling with the yachts of monarchs and moguls in the favored marinas of the Cote d'Azur, Mediterranean islands and the Italian Riviera, sailing combinable, week-long voyages between Monte Carlo and Rome, and round-trip from both cities.
Seabourn Spirit will summer in the Adriatic, sailing two different 7-day cruises round trip from Venice to the medieval gems of Italy, Croatia, Montenegro and Slovenia. Combining these affords guests the opportunity to enjoy a full day in La Serenissima in between.
In Northern Europe, Seabourn will have two different ships sailing the same region, but offering a choice of cruise lengths and content. Seabourn Sojourn, introduced to acclaim last June with 225 luxurious suites, will be offering cruises of seven days visiting the highlights of the Baltic, including three days in St. Petersburg, between Copenhagen and Stockholm. These alternate (and can be combined) with 9-day Norwegian Fjords cruises round-trip from Copenhagen.
Meanwhile its smaller sister Seabourn Pride will carry 208 guests on 12-day Scandinavia & Russia voyages that deliver the same highlights and add some charming islands and cities on the Baltic's Amber Coast. Pride's pair of cruises in Norway are likewise longer, sailing from Copenhagen all the way to the North Cape and back in 15 days.
All of these options promise travelers an unmatched level of luxury and convenience, and a tremendous value when compared with the cost of visiting these European destinations by other means. For more information on Seabourn's Combo Fares, or to book a Seabourn voyage, contact your travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.
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SeaDream Yacht Club hosts UK-based Celebrity Chef, Levi Roots
Miami, FL, Feb 23: SeaDream Yacht Club is delighted to announce that celebrity chef and entrepreneur Levi Roots, who found fame in 2007 on the popular BBC Two series Dragons’ Den, will be joining SeaDream I aboard a 7-night voyage departing from Antigua (round-trip) on December 4, 2011. This is the first time SeaDream has hosted a UK-based celebrity chef on board. Jamaican-born Levi Roots is known widely for his creative, Caribbean-themed cuisine-both in the UK and internationally-using simple techniques and easy-to-find ingredients. During the voyage, guests aboard SeaDream’s deluxe, all-inclusive mega yacht, SeaDream I, will have the opportunity to enjoy colorful cooking demonstrations by this famous celebrity chef and also sample his cuisine served at dinner one evening.
“With a maximum of 112 guests aboard, this promises to be an extra unique and exclusive voyage,” comments SeaDream’s UK Director of Business Development, Jenny Wright. “We are delighted to be welcoming Levi aboard and are confident that the indigenous culinary theme of this sailing will be of great interest to our loyal SeaDreamers and new guests alike.”
Says Levi Roots: “I am thrilled to be sailing and cooking aboard SeaDream’s award-winning SeaDream I, the first time I have been a guest chef at sea! My Caribbean food is renowned for ‘bringing sunshine to your kitchen and your soul’.” This SeaDream I voyage departs Antigua Dec 4, 2011 and calls on Anguilla, Tortola, Norman Island, Virgin Gorda, Saba, St Barts and Nevis concluding in Antigua on Dec 11. Voyage fares include all gourmet meals, gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, complimentary open bar, use of the yacht’s “water toys” and more.
The expression “yachting” is not a sentiment about size; it is a statement about lifestyle aboard the small vessels. Chic and stylish, SeaDream’s 56-stateroom twin yachts are favored for their elegant informality, state-of-the-art facilities, personal service provided by a crew of 95, inclusive open bar and gratuities, ocean-view accommodations, luxury spa and world class cuisine. Itineraries include the Eastern Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Amazon. For further details visit www.SeaDream.com or phone 800 707-4911.
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Learn About Wine and Wealth Management on Windstar
SEATTLE, Feb. 22: Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations, offers guests the opportunity to learn about wine from David Gianulias and Todd Rustman, founders of Napa Valley's Levendi Winery, along with wealth management on Wind Surf's May 8, 2011 Barcelona to Rome voyage.
The Gianulias family has a strong Greek tradition of private winemaking dating back centuries. In ancient Greece, wine was vital to both culture and community. Today, Mediterranean communities still hold wine in the highest regard. Since 1926, Levendi has developed ultra-premium Napa Valley vintages. Aboard Wind Surf, Gianulias and Rustman will lecture on the winemaking process and conduct a wine tasting. For more information on Levendi Winery, please visit www.levendiwinery.com. In addition to winemaking at Levendi, Rustman is co-founder of GR Capital Asset Management, a financial management firm based in Newport Beach, Calif. Rustman will conduct a lecture on wealth management during the sailing. For more information on GR Capital Asset Management, please visit www.gr-cam.com.
Wind Surf's 7-day Barcelona to Rome sailing departs May 8, 2011, and visits the ports of Palma de Mallorca, Spain; St. Tropez, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Portofino, Italy; and Livorno, Italy. For more information including rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises to Host ‘PTV At Sea’ for 8th Consecutive Year
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Feb 22: Seven Seas Voyager will host a fascinating line-up of Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR) personalities, May 4-24. The ship is operated by ultra-luxury Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The 20-day “PTV at Sea” voyage will travel to ports in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Israel and the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. During the voyage, the PBS and NPR enrichment team will share insights and anecdotes on politics, culture, personal finance, wellness and more. Guests can also attend book signings, movie screenings with commentary, VIP dinners, cocktail receptions and exclusive shore-side events, personally escorted by the guest lecturers.
A Three Seas Adventure
Guests embark Seven Seas Voyager in Dubai, UAE, headed for Oman’s Port Qaboos – gateway to Muscat – before sailing across the Arabian Sea to Salalah, also in Oman. Leisurely days on the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea offer ample opportunity to attend lectures, visit the Canyon Ranch SpaClub or lounge poolside with a bestseller.
Next, the cruise visits Petra from the port of Aqaba, Jordan, before calling at Egypt. In Safaga, an overnight allows guests to venture inland to Luxor before sailing to Sharm El Sheikh and Port Said, gateways to the Giza pyramids. The political events in Egypt are being closely monitored by Regent Seven Seas Cruises and tourist sites, including the Egyptian Museum, have recently reopened.
From Egypt, the ship visits Ashdod and Haifa, gateways to the historic and Biblical treasures of Israel. Prior to disembarking in Civitavecchia (Rome), guests enjoy a visit to Sorrento, from where they can explore the ruins of Pompeii, the idyllic isle of Capri or Amalfi Coast resorts.
Lauded Luminaries
A team of all-star enrichment lecturers will be addressing the recent events in Egypt and the Arab World, among other topics. They include:
· Charlie Cook, publisher of The Cook Political Report and political analyst for the National Journal Group
· Ari Shapiro, the well-known White House correspondent and reporter for NPR
· Michael Childers, a photographer with more than 200 magazine covers, including Vogue, Esquire, Life and GQ
· Jacki Lyden, an award-winning journalist, author and host of NPR’s “All Things Considered”
· Dr. Michael Ledeen, Freedom Scholar at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, published author, and Wall Street Journal contributor
· Bill O’Leary, an esteemed staff photographer for The Washington Post
In addition, guests will enjoy illustrated presentations from award-winning actor Michael York, who has appeared in 60 films including Romeo & Juliet, Cabaret, The Three Musketeers, Logan’s Run and Austin Powers and Jack Hanna, who is recognized around the world as America’s favorite zookeeper, and author of 10 books.
Cruise in Six-Star Splendor
Guests discover the world aboard the all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager, a 700-guest cruise ship that is as acclaimed for its luxurious accommodations as it is for its superb service. Indeed, the brand is recognized as the “most inclusive ultra-luxury line” because air transportation, all-suite accommodations, gourmet cuisine, open bars, sightseeing tours and excursions, gratuities and taxes are included in the fare.
Public areas are resplendent with rich fabrics, textures and furnishings. Suites, among the most spacious at sea, measure from 300 to 1,200 square feet and offer tastefully appointed living and sleeping areas, marble bathroom, walk-in closet, flat-screen TV, fully stocked bar and private balcony. Facilities include several elegant bars, a show lounge, casino, library, Internet center, card room, outdoor pool, hot tubs and Canyon Ranch SpaClub®. Seven Seas Voyager guests can enjoy four dining venues, including Prime 7 steakhouse; Signatures, serving Le Cordon Bleu cuisine; Compass Rose restaurant, which features Continental fare, American favorites and Canyon Ranch spa cuisine; and La Veranda, a sumptuous buffet with regional specialties and both indoor and al fresco seating.
For reservations, see a professional travel agent or call toll-free 800-285-1835. To enjoy the VIP dinners and exclusive events, please ask for promo code: PTV at Sea. For more information about the guest lecturers to be featured during the voyage, visit www.ptvatsea.com. To learn more about Regent Seven Seas Cruises, visit www.rssc.com.
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Queen Victoria & Queen Mary to Meet for Historic Cunard Royal Rendezvous
in Long Beach Harbor
Feb 22: On March 3 maritime history will be made, once again in Long Beach Harbor, when Queen Victoria and Queen Mary meet for the first time during a Cunard Royal Rendezvous. At approximately 6:00pm, Queen Victoria will sail into Long Beach Harbor to meet Queen Mary, and the two ships will exchange whistle salutes amidst a sparkling fireworks display. Spectators can view the two ships together for approximately 30 minutes before Queen Victoria continues on her Panama Canal Adventure to Ft. Lauderdale.
This rendezvous marks only the second time in Cunard’s venerable history that a modern Queen has visited her docked sister ship; the very first-ever rendezvous was in February 2006 when, on the occasion of her maiden call to Los Angles, flagship Queen Mary 2 met her namesake, garnering international attention. This historic event also signals the celebration of a significant milestone: the upcoming 75th anniversary of Queen Mary’s maiden voyage from Southampton, England (27 May 1936).
“After the spectacular Cunard Royal Rendezvous in New York with our three modern Queens back in January, it is quite fitting that we continue the grand celebration on the West Coast,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “Queen Mary is an important part of our history and legacy and what better way to salute her than with a visit from Queen Victoria to celebrate the completion of her debut Americas season.”
The best viewing location is on the Promenade deck of Queen Mary, at the aft (back) of the ship. Queen Mary will offer free admission for guests to board the ship to experience her attractions, including:
• Dining at the Promenade Café, Sir Winston’s and the Chelsea Chowder House
• Tours, including Behind-the-Scenes, WWII, Haunted Encounters, Twilight Historical and the Ghosts & Legends show, among others (All tours sold separately.)
• Shopping at more than a dozen shops, including Stacks, Queen Mary’s signature souvenir boutique
• Experience vast views of the Harbor from the Observation Bar, the ship’s original first class cocktail lounge, and enjoy live entertainment until 7:00 p.m.
Earlier that day, Queen Victoria makes the last of four visits to the Port of Los Angeles as part of her debut Americas Season, which continues through late March and features several transits through the Panama Canal, two roundtrip voyages to Hawaii, and one Getaway voyage to Mexico. Queen Victoria returns to the West Coast again in early 2012.
Debuting in December 2007, Queen Victoria is the third largest Cunarder ever built, weighing in at 90,000 tons. The 2,000 passenger liner is infused with a sense of luxury and tradition, from the Royal Court Theatre, which includes the first private viewing boxes at sea, to the signature two-storey library featuring a spiral staircase and nearly 6,000 volumes.
During Cunard’s legendary 171-year history, the iconic Queen Mary epitomized the golden age of ocean travel and served as a Cunard liner for more than 30 years. Additionally, she served as a troopship during World War II and a Royal Mail Ship, under contract with the British Royal Mail service. Queen Mary’s influence lives on today serving as interior design inspiration for the modern Cunard fleet, the youngest at sea, and continues to be a popular destination for maritime enthusiasts. She retired from service in 1967 and remains in Long Beach, Calif. as a hotel, museum and tourist attraction. For more information about Queen Mary, visit www.queenmary.com.
For more information about Queen Victoria and to book a voyage, consult your travel professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD (1-800-728-6273) or go to www.cunard.com
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Full Spanish-Language Cruise Atlas Another Industry Exclusive for Crystal
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21: Se habla Espanol? Crystal Cruises does! And with Crystal's new, 211-page, full Spanish-language Atlas outlining its entire 2011 cruise line-up, now the more than 400 million Spanish-speaking people in the world can fully access itineraries, pricing, and complete information about the world's most luxurious cruise line's offerings for this year. As the only luxury cruise line to publish a full Atlas in Spanish, Crystal's Spanish Atlas effort is yet another mark of its trend-setting leadership.
"With a growing marketplace of 23 countries in the world for whom Spanish is the primary language, we're making it easier for native speakers to understand all of the nuances of a Crystal adventure," says Director of International Sales Karen Mann. "Crystal prides itself on being the ultimate service-oriented cruise line on the planet. The new Atlas demonstrates the continued commitment and support that Crystal has to Spanish-speaking countries and millions of Spanish-speaking travelers worldwide."
With worldwide itineraries circling both American continents, all of Europe, the Holy Land, Asia, the Pacific, and South and West Africa, Crystal is offering huge savings in 2011: Discounts on 22 fall cruises, record-low fares for a March 31 sailing to the Mexican Riviera, and up to $3,000/couple off Verandahs and Penthouses on select spring/summer Baltic and Alaska voyages. Additional savings are available for New-to-Crystal travelers and/or family and friend groups through programs such as "Crystal Family Memories," "BONUS Share the Experience Program," and "Kids Sail Free" on select cruises. All 2011 vacations also include up to $1,000/person in "All Inclusive - As You Wish" on-board credit to spend on just about anything. New "Open Dining by Reservation" adds even greater flexibility to evening dining.
With 23 sailings through Spanish-speaking countries in 2011, and on-board concierge teams fluent in multiple languages, Crystal is the perfect choice for both a familiar, and exotic, vacation experience for Spanish speakers seeking a sophisticated escape. The Spanish Atlas can be viewed or ordered at https://www.crystalcruises.com/form_orderbrochure.aspx, or by emailing . For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent or visit www.crystalcruises.com.
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Carnival Splendor Resumes Year-Round 7-Day Service From Long Beach on Feb 20
MIAMI, Feb 18: After completing repairs in a San Francisco dry dock facility and successfully undergoing sea trials, the 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor is now en route to its homeport of Long Beach, Calif., where it will resume its year-round schedule of seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises Feb. 20, 2011.
On this route, the ship departs the Long Beach Cruise Terminal every Sunday on week-long cruises to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. With the Carnival Splendor’s resumption of service, combined with the Carnival Paradise’s year-round 3- and 4-day Baja voyages, Carnival Cruise Lines will return to its normal passenger volume from Long Beach, carrying nearly 400,000 passengers a year.
“Carnival Cruise Lines continues to be the number one West Coast operator with two ships based in Long Beach year-round, as well as a ship operating seasonal itineraries from San Diego and Los Angeles. We have more year-round capacity dedicated to the West Coast than any other cruise line and we are committed to maintaining our leadership position in this important market,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO.
Cahill noted that the Carnival Splendor has been thoroughly inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard and Lloyd’s Registry, a ship classification society, which monitored the repair process during dry docks in San Diego and San Francisco.
“We’re obviously very pleased that the Carnival Splendor is returning to service and we’re looking forward to welcoming our guests aboard this fantastic ship,” Cahill said. “We would also like to thank our guests for their patience over the past few weeks, as well as our travel agent partners, the ports of San Diego and San Francisco and all of the government agencies, repair contractors and countless others who have provided invaluable assistance and support.”
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Splendor’s 7-day sailings from Long Beach. For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 or visit the line’s web site at www.carnival.com.
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Celebrity Summit To Sail Into 2012 With Stylish Solstice-Class Enhancements
MIAMI, Feb 17: New year, new look. That’s what’s in store for Celebrity Summit in January 2012, when the award-winning ship becomes the third in Celebrity Cruises’ much-loved Millennium Class quartet to complete a significant “Solsticizing,” the term the line coined for its initiative to complement its Milllennium Class ships’ style and design with some of the most popular attributes found on its widely heralded Solstice Class ships. Among the multiple highlights: the coveted AquaClass, Celebrity’s soothing, spa-inspired veranda-category accommodations, paired with the chic, Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, “Blu,” offered exclusively for AquaClass guests; the virtually indescribable ‘Qsine’ specialty restaurant, and the hip ‘Celebrity iLounge.’
“Based on the phenomenal response we’ve had from guests who have sailed on the ‘Solsticized’ Celebrity Constellation, we’re eager to introduce the same new features – ranging from the ‘Cellarmasters’ wine bar to our signature ‘icy’ Martini Bar to our cool Café al Bacio and Gelateria – and even more on Celebrity Summit,” said Celebrity’s President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. “We recognize that consumers’ vacation time is precious, which inspires us to do everything we can to make their vacation with Celebrity Cruises something that is truly different and better than anything they’ve experienced before.”
A Celebrity exclusive – “Qsine,” the novel restaurant introduced on Celebrity Eclipse last year, and set to debut on Celebrity Infinity following the ship’s revitalization in December 2011 – will be presented on Celebrity Summit, too. The first restaurant at sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPadTM, Qsine has been described in press reviews as “the latest and most innovative restaurant,” “cutting-edge,” “appealingly quirky,” “menu-tainment,” “entertainment and dining rolled into one,” “like a rollercoaster with a tablecloth” and simply, “defying description.” Qsine features playful, delectable options including a vertical selection of savory tapas and mezze served individually in custom-made frames, a trio of chilled soups delivered shot-style, and spring rolls served in springs. All are described in detail on the iPad-housed menu and wine list, which offers a full scan of wine labels, an interactive cocktail menu, and the ability for guests to enter tasting notes and e-mail their favorite wine selections.
Joining AquaClass, Blu and Qsine in the “Solsticizing” of Celebrity Summit will be:
• the hip Celebrity iLounge, which debuted on Celebrity Eclipse and made Celebrity Cruises the industry’s first Authorized Apple Reseller, and where guests can participate in Celebrity’s “iLearn” enrichment series
• a “cool” new ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush
• the vibrant creperie, Bistro on Five
• the inviting Café al Bacio and Gelateria
• Cellarmasters wine bar, complete with the “Enomatic” state-of-the-art wine serving system – an industry-first when it debuted on Celebrity Solstice – allowing guests to select wines by the glass, at the touch of a button
• entirely new verandas added to the ship’s spacious, luxurious Celebrity Suites
• even more sumptuous suites, courtesy of all new furniture, flat-screen TVs, upholstery, bedding and carpeting – and, as offered with every suite with Celebrity Cruises, 24/7 butler service
restyled staterooms, with entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding
• new color schemes, carpeting and upholstery reflective of the Solstice Class’ stylish, modern design in every public venue
• additional new oceanview and inside staterooms
• an expanded collection of original, contemporary art
As previously announced, sister ship Celebrity Infinity will emerge from a scheduled drydock period Dec 3, 2011, with all the Solstice-inspired enhancements planned for Celebrity Summit.
Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of the world’s top-rated premium cruise line, with spacious, stylish interiors; dining experiences elevated to an art form; personalized service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 2:1; unexpected, trendsetting onboard activities, all designed to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity sails to Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. One of the fastest-growing major cruise lines, Celebrity’s fleet currently consists of 10 ships, with two additional Solstice Class ships scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Silhouette in July 2011, and Celebrity Reflection in Fall 2012. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit www.celebritycruises.com.
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Norwegian First In The Cruise Industry To Be Awarded With Travel + Leisure Design Award
MIAMI, Feb 17: Norwegian Cruise Line is the first in the cruise industry to be honored by Travel + Leisure, the popular guide for world travelers with the largest audience of any travel magazine, with its distinguished Design Award. The recipients of the seventh annual award represent the best new examples of design in a range of categories from hotels and transportation to luggage and travel fashion.
Norwegian Epic was awarded “Best Transportation” for its innovative Studio staterooms, a private key-card access complex on two decks consisting of 128 staterooms and the Studio Lounge. The concept was pioneered by Norwegian and designed and priced specifically for solo travelers, allowing them the comfort and convenience to travel without the industry’s single supplement cruise price. Priestmangoode, a design firm in the United Kingdom, designed the Studios for Norwegian.
“The Studio staterooms on Norwegian Epic have been extremely well received and we are pleased to be able to offer solo traveler’s an opportunity to visit great destinations while experiencing Freestyle Cruising on board our most innovative ship,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer.
Each Studio stateroom, at approximately 100 square feet of living space, features a contemporary design with a full-size bed and separate areas for the bathroom, sink and shower. In addition, guests in the Studios have private access to the exclusive Studio Lounge. Here, guests can grab a cup of coffee in the morning, meet up with fellow cruisers and plan their day or relax with a drink in the evening. Since many of the Studio staterooms are connecting, there is also the opportunity for friends to travel together while giving each their own private space.
Norwegian Epic is currently featured on www.TravelandLeisure.com and is highlighted in the magazine’s March issue, on newsstands Feb 21. Winners of the 2011 Travel + Leisure Design Awards were selected by an esteemed panel of judges, including Henry Urbach, curator of architecture and design for the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; Norma Kamali, fashion designer; Danny Meyer, restaurateur; Paulette Cole, CEO and creative director of ABC Carpet & Home’s; and David Childs, Chairman of Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill.
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Royal Caribbean Brings History Back to Life at Historic Falmouth Jamaica
MIAMI, Feb. 17: Royal Caribbean International's Voyager of the Seas today became the first ship to call at Historic Falmouth port. Situated between the popular cruise ports of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Historic Falmouth is the first-ever thematic cruise port and is also a convenient gateway for guests to embark on more than 60 exhilarating land experiences along the north coast of Jamaica. Additionally, restoration throughout the town of Falmouth offer guests a wide selection of cultural and historic experiences.
"We are delighted to see Voyager of the Seas make the first-ever ship call at Historic Falmouth," said Craig Milan, senior vice president of Land Operations, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "By partnering with the Port Authority of Jamaica, we are working to deliver our shared vision of Falmouth's rebirth. Together, we are bringing the town's historic sites to life and integrating the culture and authenticity of this destination into a superior guest experience."
The grand opening celebrations of Historic Falmouth port will take place on March 22, 2011 when Oasis of the Seas makes her maiden call into the port. Other Royal Caribbean ships that will be calling at Historic Falmouth include Freedom of the Seas on Feb. 23; Navigator of the Seas on Feb. 24; and Allure of the Seas debuting on March 30. Guests can experience a diverse variety of shore excursions at an additional cost while at Historic Falmouth, including:
-- Good Hope Great House: located fifteen minutes from Falmouth, guests can choose from the new horse & carriage ride, river-tubing, ATV exploring, among others, on this former 18th century Jamaican plantation.
-- Dolphin Cove & Dunn's River Falls: adventure seekers can climb Dunn's River Falls; zip-line through the lush rainforest canopy or wind down the mountainside on a Jamaican bobsled at Mystic Mountain; or swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove.
-- Appleton Estate: after a scenic drive through the Cockpit Country and Bamboo Avenue, guests can indulge in one of Falmouth's old-world delicacies by learning to make rum and sampling different aged rums.
-- Rafting on Martha Brae: located five minutes from Falmouth, guests can enjoy a tranquil ride on a 30-foot bamboo raft.
"Falmouth has an important place in the cultural history of Jamaica. It is especially rewarding for us to use that history as an entree for a new generation of guests," said Hon Mike Henry, Jamaica's Minister of Transport and Works, who has portfolio responsibility for cruise shipping. "Our sights have always been set on being the preeminent cruise destination, and with the best-in-class berthing facilities at the Historic Falmouth port, we'll now easily welcome the world's largest ships."
The revitalization of Historic Falmouth is a multi-phased development project with the first phase near completion offering a two-berth pier, retail and restaurant services as well as a transportation center. Subsequent phases will include onsite attractions and experiences, hotel and residential developments, as well as additional retail and restaurant options. The town also has many prominent houses, shops and public buildings built in the 18th and 19th centuries that are still standing, but are in need of refurbishment. The restoration and preservation of several historic buildings in Falmouth is currently underway.
Falmouth was founded in 1790 from land owned by Edward Barrett. His granddaughter Elizabeth Barrett Browning would later be celebrated as one of the greatest poets in the English language. At that time Jamaica was the world's leading sugar producer, and this was most evident in Falmouth with more than 80 sugar estates nearby. The town was meticulously mapped out in the Colonial tradition, with streets named after British royalty and heroes--King Street, Queen Street, Rodney Street (after 18th century naval leader Admiral Lord George Rodney) and Wellington Street (after Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington). The remarkable density of historic Georgian architectural buildings, which residents have lived in and maintained, is reflective of the town's rich heritage. Its public amenities included the first piped water supply system in the Western Hemisphere, established in 1799. The town prospered throughout the first half of the 19th century and was the birthplace of the abolition slavery movement. Falmouth was the site of many revolts, and many of the buildings in the town served as safe houses for those who had escaped. In fact, a prominent Falmouth reverend, William Knibb, whose house still stands in the town, was granted Jamaica's highest civil honor, the Order of Merit, in 1988, 150 years after the abolition of slavery.
For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit www.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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Princess Cruises Chefs Take Home Culinary Prizes at
Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Feb 16: Thanks to creative use of red snapper and deep-fried sushi, two Princess Cruises chefs have taken first place in two culinary categories at the Sixth Annual Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition. Pacific Princess Executive Chef Antonio Cortese received top honors in the "Heart Healthy" category for his Red Snapper Mojito, while Coral Princess Sous Chef Abelardo Alvarez won the "Vegetarian" category with his Deep Fried Sushi with Bacardi Wasabi Emulsion and Spicy Kimchi.
The award-winning recipes were selected from more than 1,600 entries submitted for the prestigious beverage and culinary competition. Using criteria such as presentation, taste, creativity, appeal and ease of preparation, a judging panel of culinary experts winnowed down the field and chose the best recipe in each of five categories.
Passengers aboard Pacific Princess during her just-launched world cruise will have an opportunity to sample Executive Chef Cortese's Red Snapper Mojito when it is served as a special heart-healthy appetizer. Chef Alvarez's winning entry, Deep Fried Sushi with Bacardi Wasabi Emulsion and Spicy Kimchi will also be served to passengers on a regular basis on board Coral Princess.
"We're tremendously proud of both chefs for demonstrating such culinary excellence," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "It's always a great honor to be singled out from one's peers and receive industry acknowledgement of the creativity that enhances our passengers' experience. We congratulate them on this achievement."
The Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition, an international event open to all bartenders and chefs in the cruise and ferry industry, requires bartenders and chefs to create original recipes using Bacardi products. The goals of the competition are to "support the cruise industry and its talented artisans, recognize innovation onboard the world's best cruise and ferry lines, and foster a path for staff to further their trade expertise".
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Carnival Teams Up With The Ellen Degeneres Show For Unique
“Didja Ever Game Week” Promotion
Consumers are invited to tune into The Ellen DeGeneres Show next week to watch “Didja Ever Game Week” sponsored by Carnival Cruise Lines. Every day during “Didja Ever Game Week,” ELLEN will be giving away fabulous prizes, leading up to the grand prize — an all expenses-paid European cruise for six aboard Carnival’s newest Fun Ship, the Carnival Magic this summer! One lucky audience member and an at-home viewer will each win the grand prize.
Carnival Cruise Lines and www.Ellentv.com will also kick off a fun-filled sweepstakes on Monday, February 21 that provides a chance to win an incredible experience – a trip to Hollywood, tickets to The Ellen DeGeneres Show and a Carnival cruise!
With its “Hey America, Didja Ever?” campaign, Carnival has claimed 2011 the “Year of Getting Fun Done” and is encouraging people to try the things they’ve always wanted to do. Check local listings to watch “Didja Ever Game Week on The Ellen DeGeneres Show” February 21-25 and visit www.Ellentv.com for more information on how to enter to win.
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Announcing ROMBELLO Cruise From Sixthman
ATLANTA, GA - On Sept 29, 2011, Sixthman will embark on its newest musical adventure, Rombello. The floating festival will feature Slightly Stoopid, Michael Franti & Spearhead, and G. Love & Special Sauce, with special guests Citizen Cope (solo), Brett Dennen, Gaelic Storm, Jukebox the Ghost, and many more to be announced soon. Rombello will sail from Tampa to Cozumel and back on Carnival Inspiration, returning on Oct 3, 2011.
Sixthman's aim with Rombello is to provide another destination for fans of the best live bands out there. Music will play from morning until late into the night, and there will be plenty of opportunities to relax by the water, enjoy 24-hour food and an onboard casino, meet new people, spend time with old friends, and dance under the stars in the middle of the Caribbean.
With a reputation for bringing great artists together and setting the stage for unforgettable collaborations, Sixthman is especially excited about the Rombello lineup. Slightly Stoopid, consummate road warriors, continue to build a huge grassroots following with engaging live shows. Michael Franti & Spearhead, who just released The Sound of Sunshine last year, wowed the crowds on a Sixthman cruise in 2010, and we cannot wait to have them back. G. Love & Special Sauce have had a loyal fan base since the mid-nineties; G. Love is releasing Fixin' To Die, produced by Seth and Scott Avett, this February.
Citizen Cope will be singing his modern day blues during solo sets, Brett Dennen - who is preparing for a new release in April 2011 - will bring his troubadour tunes to the stage, and Gaelic Storm - Sixthman vets - will surely create a Celtic rumpus on the ship that may or may not include crowd surfing. Jukebox the Ghost just performed on their first Sixthman cruise - Ships and Dip 4 - earlier this month, and will be an awesome addition to Rombello.
Sixthman founder and CEO Andy Levine says of Rombello, "This vacation promises to deliver amazing festival moments and features a collection of dynamic bands heralded as the best live performers today." Sixthman pioneered the music theme cruise movement and has hosted more than 30 full-ship charters since 2001.
Fares for Rombello include admission to all entertainment on board, meals, and all shipboard activities and amenities. See rombello.com for more information.
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Celebrity Cruises Announces 2011 'Savor Your Destination' Chef Lineup
MIAMI, Feb 15: Celebrity Cruises' guest chef theme cruise program, "Savor Your Destination," is serving up a roster filled with gifted culinarians who will participate this year, among them renowned television personality Chef Sara Moulton.
Recognizing that vacation time is precious, Celebrity created "Savor Your Destination" to give food and wine enthusiasts more ways to experience a memorable and enjoyable trip. In 2011, Celebrity will present a total of 12 guest chef theme cruises on its award-winning Solstice Class ships. Each cruise will offer food-and-wine themed activities that complement Celebrity's overall premium experience, emphasizing the love of fine food and wine. Activities may include a meet-and-greet cocktail reception, guest chef-led cooking demonstrations highlighting techniques and ingredients, book signings, and a "Star Chefs" cook-off featuring an interactive cooking competition, complete with a special recipe booklet featuring the guest chef's creations. For a fee, guests also can participate in hands-on cooking classes led by the guest chef in the ship's galley, or enjoy an exclusive food-and-wine-pairing dinner designed and presented by the guest chef in either Murano or Tuscan Grille, two of the five specialty restaurants onboard.
Moulton will sail on Celebrity's newest ship, Celebrity Eclipse, on March 26, 2011, on a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise sailing roundtrip from Miami, Florida. One of television's Food Network's founding personalities, Moulton has hosted numerous cooking programs, including "Cooking Live," "Cooking Live Primetime," and "Sara's Secrets." Moulton also has served as the food editor of ABC-TV's "Good Morning America" since 1997, and hosted "Sara's Weeknight Meals" on public television in 2008. She has authored several cookbooks; most recently, Sara Moulton's Everyday Family Dinners, as well as Sara Moulton Cooks at Home and Sara's Secrets for Weeknight Meals. She also was the executive chef of Gourmet magazine from 1987 until the magazine folded in late 2009. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Moulton worked and taught at numerous restaurants before working for Julia Child on public television's "Julia Child and More Company." Moulton founded the New York Women's Culinary Alliance in 1982.
A line-up of highly regarded chefs with unique approaches to their craft is in place for 2011. Additional Savor Your Destination guest chef theme cruises will be led by:
-- Chef Dean James Max of 3030 Ocean in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and five other restaurants, sailing on Celebrity Eclipse on March 12, 2011
-- Chef Timon Balloo of Sugarcane in Miami, sailing on Celebrity Equinox on April 1, 2011
-- Chef Govind Armstrong of 8 Oz. Burger Bar in Louisiana, Los Angeles, and Miami's South Beach, sailing on Celebrity Equinox on April 11, 2011
-- Chef John Suley of Gotham Steak at Miami's Fontainebleau Resort, sailing on Celebrity Equinox on April 22, 2011
-- Chef Angel Palacios of La Broche in Madrid, Spain, sailing on Celebrity Solstice on June 7, 2011
-- Chef Jordi Valles of The Ritz-Carlton in Cancun, Mexico, sailing on Celebrity Solstice on Oct 11, 2011
The guest chefs for two additional Savor Your Destination theme cruises in 2011, one on Celebrity Eclipse on December 10 and the other on Celebrity Equinox on Dec 12, will be announced at a later date.
Two Savor Your Destination guest chef theme cruises have already taken place this year, featuring South Beach-based chefs Sean Brasel and Dena Marino. This year, Celebrity is also offering five Savor Your Destination guest winemaker theme cruises as well as five "Guest Glass Artist" cruises highlighting The Hot Glass Show at The Lawn Club, an area featuring a lawn of real, growing grass on the top deck of its Solstice Class ships. More information is available at www.celebritycruises.com.
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Carnival Cruise Lines Reports Record Booking Week,
Receiving More Than 165,000 Reservations
MIAMI, Feb. 15: Carnival Cruise Lines set a one-week reservations record booking 165,308 guests between Feb. 7-13, 2011, eclipsing the previous one-week reservations record set nearly four years ago. Bookings were at unprecedented levels across the line's fleet, which operates three- to 16-day voyages from a wide range of convenient North American homeports as well as European cruises.
Carnival President and CEO Gerry Cahill noted that while the economy is improving, consumers are still seeking value - one of several factors spurring the record reservations activity. He cited strong travel agent support and targeted marketing and sales initiatives such as the company's national "Didja Ever" TV and social media campaign, and a "72-Hour Sale" offering complimentary upgrades.
"Clearly, consumers are taking advantage of the incredible value that a Carnival cruise provides, not only in terms of our fun on-board experience but also our many convenient close-to-home departure points and wide variety of short itineraries," Cahill said. "This activity reaffirms that even in today's economic climate, consumers still want to have fun and view their vacations as an important part of their lives," he added.
Carnival is "The World's Most Popular Cruise Line®," with 22 "Fun Ships" operating three- to 16-day voyages to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe, the Pacific Islands and New Zealand. The line currently has two new 130,000-ton ships on order - Carnival Magic, set to debut in Europe May 1, 2011, and Carnival Breeze, scheduled to enter service in spring 2012. For additional information on the Carnival vacation experience, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com
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Princess Cruises Ships to Broadcast Historic Royal Wedding of
Britain’s Prince William & Kate Middleton
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Feb 15: The highly anticipated Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton will be televised live on Princess ships on April 29. Passengers will be able to follow along with full coverage of the pomp and majesty of the historic wedding through BBC World’s broadcast of the event.
Not only can passengers follow along as the future princess walks down the aisle, but they’ll enjoy viewing parties on board as they watch the most extensive coverage of this royal event. BBC is the official wedding broadcaster and has exclusive access inside Westminster Abbey during the ceremony. The onboard viewing parties will add a celebratory flair to the event with British-style refreshments and special royal-themed cocktails. Passengers can also test their knowledge with royal wedding trivia competitions and participate in a William and Kate look-alike contest.
“As this is the first British royal wedding in years we know there will be wide interest among our passengers,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “We at Princess also feel a connection with Prince William because his mother, Princess Diana, christened our original Royal Princess back in 1984.”
Royal Wedding broadcasts are planned for all ships in the Princess fleet, subject to satellite availability. In some time zones the broadcast may be delayed for viewing at a convenient hour. The Royal Wedding is one of several special events shown on the Movies Under the Stars screens, including the Super Bowl and the Academy Awards. The giant LED screens are more than 300 square feet in size with a 69,000-watt sound system and have sufficient lighting power to be seen clearly at mid-day and heard even while the ship is moving at full speed – offering cruise passengers a movie experience comparable to the best shoreside movie theater.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Silversea Introduces 'Passport to Luxury' Promotion
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Feb 14: Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has launched a new "Passport to Luxury" promotion with the addition of 30 new voyages offering Onboard Spending Credits of up to $1,000 per suite ($500 per person), meaning most voyages (over 90) in 2011 now feature the promotion. These enticing offers are available on new bookings made by June 30, 2011.
"With Onboard Spending Credits of up to $1,000 per suite now offered on most sailings this year, we're giving travelers essentially a 'passport to luxury' that lets them enjoy a completely personalized, all-inclusive vacation experience," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "Maybe you're interested in taking a French cooking class … or surprising your spouse with a gift from the onboard boutique. Why not go for it? The choice is yours."
The "Passport to Luxury" Onboard Spending Credit lets Silversea guests craft their own luxury experience. You can treat yourself to an oriental aroma stone massage at the onboard spa while sailing to Asia. Hire a private car and driver in St. Tropez to explore the glamorous Riviera. Or savor an exquisite six-course dinner in Le Champagne--the only Relais & Châteaux wine restaurant at sea.
Onboard Spending Credit options include:
Spa treatments
Specialty restaurants
Premium spirits and rare vintages from the Connoisseur's List
Silver Shore excursions (none are excluded)
Boutique purchases
Internet packages
Laundry service
Personal fitness training
Direct-dial phone calls
Aboard Silversea's award-winning, all-suite ships, guests enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine, the personalized service of a butler assigned to every suite, and a generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and all gratuities.
The Onboard Spending Credit is a capacity-controlled program and subject to availability. The Onboard Spending Credit is offered per suite, not per voyage, and only once to guests sailing on consecutive voyages. Maximum value of Onboard Spending Credit is either $1,000 or $500 per suite, depending on voyage. Single occupancy suites will receive 50% of the Onboard Spending Credit. It is valued in U.S. dollars, regardless of booking currency. It may not be redeemed for cash, and any unused portion will be forfeited. Additional restrictions may apply. For a complete list of voyages offering the Onboard Spending Credit, visit www.silversea.com/specialoffers/.
Included roundtrip air and transfers: A roundtrip economy air package (included in the cruise fare), that includes transfers between airport and pier on the day of embarkation and disembarkation, is available from 22 gateway cities in the U.S. and Canada. It is a capacity-controlled program offered for a limited time. Additionally, there are specially priced air add-on programs available from another 50 cities.
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Royal Caribbean Signs Letter of Intent to Build New Generation of Ships
MIAMI & PAPENBURG, Germany, Feb. 11: Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. has signed a letter of intent with shipyard Meyer Werft to build the first of a new generation of Royal Caribbean International cruise ships. Developed under the code-name "Project Sunshine," the new vessel design incorporates new and exciting features that take advantage of the best of Royal Caribbean's experience and imagination. The project is a result of over a year of dedicated research and development.
The order calls for one ship to be delivered in the Fall of 2014 with an option for a second ship for Spring 2015. The 158,000 Gross Registered Tons (GRT) new build will carry just over 4,100 guests based on double occupancy. The estimated all-in cost per berth is about euro 170,000. This all-in cost includes the yard's base contract price plus everything needed to design, operate and build the vessel, from architect fees to supervision costs and all loose inventories from computers to art and bed linens.
"Royal Caribbean has worked hard to earn a reputation of offering the most innovative ships in the cruise industry and this next generation will not disappoint," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. "While we continue our policy of keeping our newest ideas and features under wraps during the early stages of construction, I can say that I am very excited about the passion and imagination that our teams have devoted to the project. Project Sunshine builds on the best ideas of our existing ships and adds exciting new activities and entertainment concepts. It will offer features for everyone: from grand, spectacular spaces to small intimate settings; from active, invigorating activities to the serenity of more personal space; and from a plethora of dining alternatives to a cornucopia of opportunities for families. I am also excited about the energy efficiency and environmental technologies which have been incorporated. Our existing ships are some of the most energy efficient in the world and Project Sunshine takes this one further step. Based on our over 20 years of experience with Meyer Werft, along with their compelling proposal, we know they will deliver on all of the innovations Royal Caribbean's guests have come to expect."
"Meyer Werft is pleased to be working with Royal Caribbean especially in light of their reputation for building such innovative ships. I am very happy we are continuing our long time partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and its brand Royal Caribbean International. Their projects always present incredible opportunities for Meyer Werft to create the latest cutting edge hardware in the cruise industry," said Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft shipyard.
The letter of intent is subject to customary conditions being satisfactorily met.
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Disney Fantasy Moves a Step Closer to Reality During Keel Laying Ceremony
PAPENBURG, GERMANY, Feb. 11: Today, Disney Cruise Line celebrated the keel laying of the Disney Fantasy at the Meyer Werft shipyard. This is the second of two newly-designed ships that take the family cruise experience to all new heights. Sister ship to the Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, entered service on Jan. 26, 2011. The keel laying ceremony is a significant milestone in the ship building process when the first block, or section of the ship, is lowered into the building dock and a coin is placed under the keel for good fortune. Placing the coin was Karl Holz, President of Disney Cruise Line, assisted by Minnie Mouse.
The Disney Fantasy will offer many of the innovations that the Disney Dream features and brought to the cruise industry for the very first time, including AquaDuck, the world’s first shipboard water coaster. However, the Disney Fantasy will feature a few new design elements and guest experiences that will give the ship a unique identity all her own.
The 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy will sail week-long Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla. with its maiden voyage scheduled for March 31, 2012. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.
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Windstar Cruises Expands Capacity in the Greek Isles
SEATTLE, Feb. 11: Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations, offers guests exceptional opportunities to experience the mythical beauty, rich history and ancient wonders of the Greek Isles on 7-day voyages between Athens, Greece and Istanbul, Turkey.
Due to demand for these popular itineraries, Windstar will be offering more capacity in the Greek Isles in 2011. For the first time in six years, the 312-guest Wind Surf will be sailing the Greek Isles as well as the 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit. Ports visited on Greek Isles sailings include Athens, Greece; Mykonos, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Istanbul, Turkey.
• Wind Surf sails six Greek Isles voyages departing July 16; July 23; Sept 24; Oct 1; Oct 8; and Oct 15, 2011.
• Wind Star offers 18 Greek Isles voyages departing May 21; May 28; June 4; June 11; June 18; June 25; July 2; July 9; Aug 6; Aug 13; Aug 20; Aug 27; Sept 3; Sept 10; Sept 17; Sept 24; Oct 1; and Oct 8, 2011.
• Wind Spirit Greek Isles voyages depart May 14; May 21; May 28; June 4; Sept 10; and Sept 17, 2011.
For more information including brochures, rates, and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
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Grand Princess to Undergo Dramatic Transformation During Spring Drydock
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Feb 10: The most significant transformation ever of a Princess Cruises ship will occur this spring aboard Grand Princess. During a 24-day makeover the ship, which was the prototype for the line’s “Grand Class” vessels, will undergo a remarkable renovation to receive many of Princess’ trademark features introduced since the ship’s 1998 debut including the signature Piazza atrium. Several new features will be also be added including a unique tea lounge and library called “Leaves”; and “Alfredo’s,” a full-service pizzeria showcasing this renowned Princess dish.
A brand new nightclub called One5, inspired by its deck location, will be created on the top deck of the ship, replacing its iconic Skywalker Nightclub, which has given the ship its distinctive profile. Skywalkers will be removed from its 18th deck perch, with its replacement located on deck 15. This change will significantly improve the operational performance of the ship, including greater fuel efficiency.
“This is the largest makeover we’ve ever undertaken for any of our ships,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “When Grand Princess was launched she was the most innovative ship at sea, and now we’re adding some of the later innovations we introduced on subsequent ships.”
The changes will be made during a drydock from April 11 to May 4 at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas. Highlights of the dramatic makeover include:
• New Piazza atrium: The atrium space of Grand Princess will be completely rebuilt to include this signature Princess feature--a multi-faceted social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza will feature the International Café for pastries, grilled panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passenger will also enjoy a new Vines wine bar offering a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass, plus a selection of tapas and sushi, and a wine shop where passengers can purchase their favorite bottle.
• Leaves Tea Lounge and Library: A fusion of tea lounge and library, the new Leaves offers a distinctive opportunity for passengers to custom-blend a variety of base teas with herbs, fruits and spices to create a personalized tea blend. Created in partnership with Mighty Leaf Tea Company, one of the world’s premier maker of artisan teas, Leaves will give passengers an impressive choice of up to 500 different tea blends to suit their palates. A trained tea sommelier will assist passengers in blending a personalized tea creation, which which they can enjoy in the midst of the library and a good book.
• Alfredo’s Pizzeria: Known for serving the best pizza at sea, Princess will introduce Alfredo’s, a new sit-down pizzeria with an enticing menu of freshly prepared individual-size pizzas. Named for the line’s master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria will feature an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create the pizzas they’ll enjoy with a glass of wine or other beverage.
• One5 Lounge: The new One5 lounge will replace Skywalkers as the place to be for nighttime dancing and relaxing. The new lounge on deck 15 (hence its name) takes its inspiration from the chicest urban nightclubs, and will offer a cool vibe, contemporary seating and lighting, and a dramatic back-lit bar.
• Crown Grill: A classic steakhouse with rich wood surroundings, this specialty restaurant features an open, theater-style kitchen where chefs custom-prepare premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, including live lobsters.
Also part of the renovation will be 10 new suites; remodeled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner’s Martini Lounge.
The newly renovated Grand Princess will debut on May 5 in Ft. Lauderdale where the ship will depart on a transatlantic crossing for her summer and fall homeport of Southampton, from which she will cruise a variety of European itineraries. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Crystal Serenity to Undergo Major Redesign in May
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9: While Crystal Cruises' ocean resorts have racked up countless awards since entering service, the ultra-luxury line has never been one to rest on its laurels. This spring, Crystal will be spending $25+ million dollars to keep its largest ship, Crystal Serenity, on the cutting edge of luxury style. More than 400 expert technicians flown from around the world, working round the clock for just 14 days, are scheduled for the massive redesign of her 531 Deluxe Staterooms, Penthouses and Penthouses Suites; retail centers; expansive outdoor pool deck and other design projects during a May 8-22 dry dock at Hamburg's Blohm + Voss shipyard.
"In the past two years, we have invested well over $50 million in our ships," says Gregg Michel, president, Crystal Cruises. "Our guests can look forward to dazzling new spaces, which will serve as a stunning backdrop to the incomparable service and choices that always characterizes a Crystal vacation."
Interior designer, Keith Rushbrook, principal at the Toronto-based II BY IV Design Associates, summarizes the vision: "We wanted modern classic elegance. We wanted Fifth Avenue - creme de la creme New York-inspired living and retail spaces that people love and look forward to spending time in."
New Deluxe Stateroom and Penthouse Accommodation Decor
All of Crystal Serenity's Deluxe Outside Staterooms, Penthouses, and Penthouse Suites will sport new, floor-to-ceiling tufted headboards, bedside cabinets, wallpaper, sofas, curtains, pillows, and custom carpets in contemporary lines and classic stone, silk, velvet, leather, and crisp linen textures. New modern lighting features and electronic "do not disturb" and doorbell system will allow guests greater personalization of their home-away-from-home.
New Shops
Serenity's retail shops will receive a similar, sophisticated metamorphosis. The Facets fine jewelry store will mirror a jewelry box, with mother-of-pearl feature wall, beveled chrome vitrines, and new, private sales area. The Apropos boutique will become three-shops-in-one, with a flagship Christian Dior cosmetic/skincare area showcased amongst rich Zebrano wood and herringbone rosewood, arresting black-plum-magenta carpeting, and tufted leather seating.
New Chic Pool Deck
Inspired by Crystal Symphony's recent transformation, the Seahorse Pool teak deck will be refashioned with circular pod beds, plush sofa groups, and lounge chairs in a kaleidoscope of lime green, azure, and mango.
New Lighting and Furniture
The corridors throughout the ship will be transformed with new, custom carpeting, inspiring artwork, and mood lighting. Dramatic new lighting will also be installed in the Crystal Dining Room, as will new furniture on all stateroom verandahs.
Following the dry dock, Crystal Serenity will embark on a series of Baltic, North Cape and British Isles cruises before heading to the Mediterranean for late summer and fall cruise series, where guests cannot only enjoy the resort's new look but exceptional value with verandah savings and a new fall fare sale. Crystal Cruises' ethos of warm and friendly attentiveness, proffered by top-trained service staff from around the world, has earned the line a reputation for elevating hospitality to an art form. With no guest request left untended, Crystal Cruises has been the perfect choice for luxury travelers for over two decades. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.
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MSC Announces Canada/New England Cruises for 2011/12 Season
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Feb 9: MSC Poesia sails her second season of fall foliage Canada/New England cruises on Sept. 28 for guests departing from New York and Quebec. An array of brilliant Canada/New England fall foliage cruises showcase colorful Canadian fishing villages and cities including our new port of call, Saint John in New Brunswick, on the Bay of Fundy or the scenic Maritime Provinces in Canada. Follow the footsteps of historical figures along New England’s shores.
Cruises vary from 7- to 12-nights, and can be combined for an extended experience. The 12-night positioning cruise from NYC to Ft. Lauderdale on Oct. 29 to the Caribbean is an attractive option for snowbirds relocating from the Northeast for the season. All Canada/New England cruises include:
• 10-night “Dazzling Fall Foliage” cruises roundtrip from New York City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Quebec City, Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Newport, Rhode Island. Sept. 28.
• 7-night “Captivating Colors of Canada” cruises departing New York City to Quebec City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and an overnight in Quebec. Oct. 8.
• 7-night “Brilliant Colors of Fall” cruises departing Quebec City, Quebec and calling in Saint John, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; and Newport, Rhode Island. Oct. 15.
• 7-night “Scarlet and Gold Spectacular” roundtrip cruises from New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; and Newport, Rhode Island. Oct 22.
• 12-night “Colors of the Caribbean” cruises roundtrip from New York City and calling in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Cristobal, Panama; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; and Cozumel, Mexico. Oct. 29. A 9-night roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale is on Nov. 1.
For more information, visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a travel professional.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Opens New Marina And Dining Facility At Great Stirrup Cay
MIAMI, Feb 8: Norwegian Cruise Line announced that it has completed the first phase of enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s 250-acre private island in the Bahamas. On Thursday, February 3, the company opened the new marina and dining facility on the island, representing a significant milestone in the more than $20 million enhancement project currently underway. Norwegian Sky’s 2,000 guests were the first to experience the opening of the marina basin with four docks for the island’s tenders and the new 8,500 square foot dining facility, complete with two bars and four picnic pavilions.
“Both the new marina and the dining facility greatly enhance the guest experience on Great Stirrup Cay which is our second busiest port of call this year,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s president and CEO. “By moving the tenders’ arrival to the marina and away from the beach, we have now opened up a great expanse of beachfront for our guests to enjoy and relax. We’ve also built a new large dining facility that is similar to the action station restaurants we have on board our Freestyle Cruising ships.”
The marina is approximately 12 feet deep at low water and is home to the island’s four tenders. It took more than eight months to excavate the basin and the entrance channel. The dining facility includes a central pizza making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads. There are two full bars on either side of the facility for added convenience. The four pavilions, each more than 1800 square feet, offer picnic tables with a total seating capacity for more than 500 guests.
Enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay have been underway since January of 2010 and will continue through the end of this year. Several new island activities have been added since the project began including more than 16 wave runners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. These are in addition to the existing snorkeling; floats; inflatable hippo slide; and parasailing. The second phase of enhancements includes an arrival/departure pavilion, additional bar facilities; several comfort stations; a band stand; cruise program activity area; private beachfront cabanas; a kid's play area; straw market; and beach volleyball courts. The beachfront will continue to be expanded on the island’s west end.
Norwegian has owned the island since 1977 when it became the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its guests. Great Stirrup Cay offers magnificent white sand beaches, majestic palms and calm, pristine waters where an abundance of colorful marine life inhabits the surrounding coral reefs.
Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Pearl regularly call on Great Stirrup Cay throughout the year. For more information on Norwegian or to book a cruise, call 866-234-7350, click www.ncl.com or phone a travel professional.
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Holland America Line Debuts Captain Morgan on the Rocks Island Bar on Its Award-Winning Private Island Half Moon Cay
SEATTLE, Feb. 7: Holland America Line debuted the novel new bar experience, Captain Morgan® on the Rocks Island Bar, with an official grand opening held on Jan. 29 at Half Moon Cay, Holland America's renowned private island in the Bahamas. Guests on cruises featuring Half Moon Cay now can experience the heritage of Captain Henry Morgan, legendary swashbuckler and scourge of the Spanish Main, at the unique bar. It is designed as a 101-foot-long, twin-decked, three-masted schooner "washed up" on Half Moon Cay's white sand beach. Seating a total 326 guests, the bar decor features nautical artifacts and historic references to Captain Morgan's exploits in these waters more than 350 years ago.
"Half Moon Cay is consistently our top-rated destination in the Caribbean, and Holland America Line is always seeking innovative ways to further enhance this guest experience," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Captain Morgan on the Rocks adds a fun and charming bar that complements the relaxing beach experience of Half Moon Cay."
Matthew Sams, vice president, Caribbean relations, is responsible for the operations of Half Moon Cay and oversaw the concept, design and construction of the new bar. The construction was performed by island staff. Holland America Line collaborated with Diageo Global Travel & Middle East (GTME), the world's leading premium drinks business that created Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum in 1983.
Located near the island's Food Pavilion, Captain Morgan on the Rocks features outdoor seating on two awning-covered, themed decks. The open upper deck offers sweeping vistas of the beach, turquoise ocean and the island interior and lagoon. "Cannons" release gentle mists of water to keep guests cool in the Bahamian sun. The lower deck features rum casks for seats, palm leaf-styled ceiling fans and images "burnt" into the crafted wood telling the story of the legendary Captain Morgan - who plundered a unique spiced rum along with gold and silver in 1668 and then lost everything when his ship went aground on rocks. The ship's band, HAL Cats, performs for guests on a built-in band stand in the aft section of the bar.
Half Moon Cay has been named "Best Private Island" by Porthole Cruise Magazine based on readers' choice for the past 10 years. Holland America Line developed a small area of Half Moon Cay to provide a quintessential and exclusive Caribbean island experience for cruise guests. The 2,400-acre island features 15 beach-front, air-conditioned cabanas, a natural 700-acre lagoon and fun-filled excursions for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike.
Guests can enjoy activities on the island including horseback riding by land and sea, snorkeling and swimming with stingrays in a secluded cove, biking tours, the AquaTrax watercraft adventure tour and parasailing. For more information and cruise fares, contact a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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Oceania Cruises’ New Ship Marina Christened in Miami
MIAMI, Feb 7: Oceania Cruises redefined the upper-premium cruise ship market with the christening of Marina on Saturday. The ship’s godmother, “Entertainment Tonight” Host Mary Hart, named the ship at a lavish, invitation-only gala ceremony, which culminated with a 15-liter Nebuchadnezzar of champagne, custom-made by Armand de Brignac, crashing against the hull. Among the ceremony highlights were inspirational performances by the Marina Choir, assembled just for this event, and the appointment of Master Chef Jacques Pépin as honorary commodore of the Oceania Cruises’ fleet. Entered into service in January 2011, Marina brings the vision of Frank Del Rio, the founder of Oceania Cruises and chairman & CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings, to reality with the line’s first newly built ship measuring 66,000 tons and accommodating 1,250 guests.
“The saying goes, ‘good things come to those who wait.’ Although Marina’s arrival has been long awaited, she’s more than just GOOD,” stated Del Rio “She’s the most beautiful, sophisticated and stylish ship launched in the modern era of cruising – a span of some 50 years.”
Marina is a ship of firsts, featuring the first Bon Appétit Culinary Center, Master Chef Jacques Pépin’s first namesake restaurant at sea, Ralph Lauren Home-furnished Owner’s Suites, luxurious accommodations by Dakota Jackson, a Wine Spectator wine program and a Lalique grand stairway.
“Marina is not just ‘another’ ship, she is special in so many ways,” stated Bob Binder, Oceania Cruises’ president. “When we set out to design and build our first new ship, we wanted it to set new standards for comfort, service and culinary excellence.”
Oceania Cruises’ new Marina arrived in Miami on Feb 4, after her maiden voyage from Barcelona. Following a short preview cruise, on Feb 8 she will depart on the first of two 18-day Panama Canal transits that visit San Francisco and San Diego, both new ports for Oceania Cruises. Marina then operates a 12-day Caribbean cruise, round-trip from Miami, departing March 16, before sailing along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard and on to Europe to begin her inaugural Mediterranean season.
Marina has been purposefully designed to carry guests to the world’s most alluring ports in elegance and style. Marina is full of rich woods, marble and granite, fine wool carpets and lustrous leathers which adorn public rooms. Facilities include 10 dining venues – six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants, an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness center, swimming pool and hot tubs.
The new Marina joins the Oceania Cruises’ fleet consisting of the 684-passenger Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, which have taken guests around the world since 2002. Her sister ship Riviera will be christened in April 2012. A leader in destination cruising and defining the upper-premium market, Oceania Cruises offers gourmet cuisine, gracious service and award-winning itineraries at an exceptional value. For more information on Oceania Cruises or to order a brochure, see a travel agent, visit www.OceaniaCruises.com or call toll-free 800-531-5658.
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Azamara Club Cruises Announces 2012 Voyages Season
MIAMI, Feb 7: Azamara Club Cruises has unveiled 54 itineraries ranging from five to 16 nights, between March 2012 and February 2013, aboard Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. The new voyages complete the cruise line’s 2012 deployments, which total 64 sailings that visit unique destinations around the world, calling at 181 ports in 57 countries throughout the Mediterranean Sea, Northern Europe, South America, India and the West Indies. Additionally, 51 percent of all port calls in 2012 feature late night and overnight stays in port, providing time for guests to enjoy a more immersive experience and take advantage of night tourism in destinations where the nightlife is even more vibrant than the day’s.
“Azamara is delighted to present up-market travelers our 2012 line-up of voyages to unique destinations around the world,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. “On board, guests will enjoy Azamara’s trademark extraordinary service, fine dining and boutique wine collection, and more inclusive amenities. We designed our itineraries to coincide with some of the world’s most exciting events, such as Rio’s Carnaval, the Floriade in the Netherlands, the 52ndAnnual Moldejazz Festival in Norway, and others, to offer guests the opportunity to attend these cultural celebrations on some of the Azamara voyages. Guests on these voyages will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase prime-seating ticket and transportation packages from Azamara, eliminating the hassle and guesswork for a truly remarkable travel experience.”
South America Celebration
Azamara Quest sails to electrifying South American destinations during the height of austral summer, beginning with a 13-night Brazil voyage that departs Barbados on Dec 5, 2012 and concludes with an overnight at Rio De Janeiro. The Christmas in South America voyage, departing Dec 18, offers guests daily port calls as well as an overnight in Punta Del Esta, Uruguay, with its miles of beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and restaurants, and glittery nightlife; and the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Guests on the December 27 New Years in Rio, nine-night voyage are in for a real treat, when after a call at Rio De Janeiro on New Year’s eve, Azamara Quest positions itself off of Copacabana Beach to offer guests an unforgettable view of the midnight fireworks over the seas.
The Jan 5, 2013, Argentina & Uruguay voyage combines charming Brazilian destinations with an overnight at Punta Del Este and two nights in Buenos Aires. On the Jan 31, 2013, 12-night Carnaval voyage, guests can enjoy overnights in both Buenos Aires and Punta Del Esta before arriving in time for two nights in Rio De Janeiro for the city’s annual Carnaval festival. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase Land Discoveries packages that offer up-close seating to catch all the pageantry. Azamara Quest then sails an 18-night Colonial Brazil and West Indies voyage, beginning with an overnight in Rio De Janeiro on Feb 12, 2013 to Miami.
East Asia Discoveries
Azamara Journey follows ancient spice trade routes and colonial heritages around the Indian subcontinent to East Asia, starting with a 13-night Spice Coast & Ceylon voyage from Bombay (Mumbai) to Madras (Chennai), India, departing Nov 29, 2012. Guests can take in the diverse cultures of Western, Southern and Eastern India with overnights in Goa (Mormugao), Cochin and Madras, and during maiden calls to the Maldives, in the Indian Ocean, and Colombo and Galle, Sri Lanka. The ship then continues on December 12 for an 11-night Burma & Andaman Sea Isles voyage, featuring a two-night stay and maiden call at Yangon (Rangoon), Burma – the former British colonial capital that features one of the region’s highest number of period buildings – and concluding with an overnight in the city-state of Singapore. On Dec 23, Azamara Journey embarks on exciting 14-night Southeast Asia voyage to Hong Kong, offering two-night calls at Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand and Ho-Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and an overnight at Hanoi in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.
Mediterranean Odysseys
Azamara Club Cruises also offers up-market travelers 27 voyages for immersive adventures throughout the Mediterranean, Black and Red seas. Departing May 8, Azamara Quest returns to the Mediterranean from Suez (Sokhna), Egypt, via the Holy Lands and Egypt to Athens (Piraeus), Greece. The only short cruise offered by Azamara, a five-night, roundtrip voyage from Nice, France, departs on May 24 and offers an overnight at and midnight departure from St. Tropez, France, and two late-night departures from Monte Carlo, Monaco, and Portofino, Italy. Guests sailing for this voyage will have the option to purchase tickets to the Monaco Grand Prix.
Azamara Quest then proceeds to the Eastern Mediterranean, offering eight voyages to the Greek Isles, Adriatic Coast, and Italy. These 7- to 12-night voyages feature overnights and late night departures in a variety of exciting ports, such as Kotor, Montenegro; Venice, Amalfi, and Capri, Italy; Athens and Mykonos, Greece; and Istanbul, Turkey. On the Black Sea & Transylvania voyage, departing July 22, Azamara Quest offers guests an opportunity to visit Dracula’s castle on a Land Discovery option during the call at Constanta, Romania. Azamara Journey also offers an 11-night Best of Italy & Greece voyage, departing Oct 4.
From August through October, both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest will sail 10 voyages, ranging from 7- to 11-nights, through the Spanish, French and Italian Rivieras, with departures from Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon, Monaco, and Rome. On the Oct 16 sailing, Azamara Quest features Northern African destinations, and will make maiden calls at Al Khums and Tripoli in Libya.
Northern Europe Explorations
Azamara Journey makes the most maiden calls for the cruise line in the North and Baltic seas in 2012, visiting new destinations with nearly daily port calls on nine voyages that celebrate the vibrant cultures of Northern Europe. On the 7-night round-trip Belgium and South England voyage from Paris (Rouen), departing April 29, the ship will make maiden calls at and midnight departures from Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Dover, England and Portland, Dorset in the U.K.; and conclude with an overnight in port. The 11-night Mother’s Day sailing, departing May 6, includes a maiden call at the Isles of Scilly in the U.K., a midnight departure from the medieval walled city of St. Malo, France, and overnights in culture-rich Antwerp, Belgium and Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Guests can fully immerse themselves in multiple North Sea cultural capitals on the 12-night Chelsea Flower Show voyage, departing May 17, which begins with an overnight in Amsterdam; features first-time calls at Flushing (Vlissingen), the Netherlands, and Southampton, England; and stays for two nights in Antwerp, Paris, and London (Greenwich), offering guests the opportunity to attend the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The May 29, 12-night British Isles in Bloom voyage overnights in Dublin, Ireland, and Edinburgh (Leith), Scotland, and includes maiden calls at Isle of Skye (Portree) and Invergordon, Scotland. On a later July 28 Castles, Distilleries & Pubs voyage from Edinburgh (Leith), guests enjoy two-night stays at and post-midnight departures from Dublin, Ireland, and Paris (Rouen).
Azamara Journey continues eastward for three voyages that explore the vibrant Nordic cultures and Baltic jewel cities. A 10-night voyage from Amsterdam on June 10 offers guests overnights in Copenhagen, Denmark and Stockholm, Sweden; a maiden call at and late departure from the charming Danish-island Ronne, Bornholm; and an overnight at and late departure from St. Petersburg, Russia, for guests to join in the city’s annual White Nights Festival. The 9-night Scandinavia Russia, departing June 27, features a maiden call at Visby, Sweden, one of the best preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and concludes with two nights in Copenhagen.
Jazz aficionados who also love to travel can choose two very special consecutive voyages aboard Azamara Journey in summer 2012. The July 6 Skagen & Hague Jazz voyage begins with an overnight in Copenhagen and concludes with an overnight in Amsterdam, and features a maiden call at Skagen, Denmark, and two-night stays in London (Greenwich) and Rotterdam, the Netherlands (also a maiden port), where guests can attend the North Seas Jazz Festival. On the last day of the festival, Azamara Journey sails at 2 a.m. to offer guests ample time to enjoy post-festival celebrations. The subsequent July 17 Jazz in the Fjords voyage then takes guests to breathtaking Norwegian fjordlands, with a maiden call at Andalsnes, Norway, and overnights in Stavanger, Norway, and Edinburgh. The itinerary offers guests two days in Molde, Norway, where they have the option for a scenic day excursion through the Fjords on where they can experience a ride on the famous Trollstigen road.
Island Colors of the West Indies
From Barbados, Azamara Journey offers an 8-night West Indies voyage to Miami, departing on March 10, 2012, and makes a maiden call at Soufriere, St. Lucia. The ship then sails a 10-night Virgins and Bermuda voyage on March 30, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to port for the first time in Boston, featuring overnight stays at both Hamilton and St. George Island in Bermuda, and St. John, U.S.V.I., and Virgin Gorda, B.V.I., where larger ships rarely go. From Boston, Azamara Journey is Europe bound on April 18, via an overnight and maiden call in New York City for an eleven-night Trans-Atlantic voyage to Paris (Rouen).
On Nov 7, Azamara Quest returns to the Western Hemisphere from Seville, Spain, to Miami, with overnights in Maderia (Funchal), Portugal, and Hamilton. The ship then sails a 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage from Miami to Barbados, departing November 28, with calls at Virgin Gorda; St. Barts; Castries, St. Lucia; and Mayreau in the Granadines.
Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. Azamara’s two intimate, 694-guest ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, with a combination of 347 suites and staterooms, offer a European-boutique hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, and wellness and vitality programs, all while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships cannot reach. Azamara Club Cruises sails European destinations, including the Baltic and Scandinavia, British Isles, Western Europe, French and Italian Rivieras, Greek Isles, Croatia, Holy Land and Black Sea, as well as Asia, South America and lesser-traveled islands of the West Indies, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region. Travelers also can choose even more immersive experiences with Azamara cruisetours in eight of the world’s most exciting destinations, including Rome, Athens, Buenos Aires, Cairo, Istanbul, Jordan and Israel, India, and China. For more information, travelers can call their travel professional, dial 1-877-999-9553, or visit the Azamara Club Cruises microsite at www.AzamaraDestinationImmersion.com.
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Locks for Less: Crystal's Warm Weather Getaways On Sale
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 7: While many travelers are digging themselves out of record-setting winter weather, Crystal Cruises is offering six warm-weather getaways through the Panama Canal in 2011, the first departing as soon as Feb 23. With four of the tropical voyages leaving from easy-to-get-to U.S. cities such as Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and several recently announced savings promotions, the winter and fall sailings offer a stress-free, luxury escape to see the historic locks for less.
Bonus fare sales, bring-a friend programs, free air, "All Inclusive - As You Wish" shipboard spending credits, new-to-Crystal savings, family group offers and other promotions are offered on all or some departures. Travelers have a choice of 11, 14, or 19-day sailings, departing on Feb 23, March 6, March 17, Aug 25, Nov 6, or Dec 21.
"Besides offering wonderfully tropical weather and beautiful scenery, the daytime Canal transit itself is a marvel," says Bill Smith, Crystal's senior vice president, sales & marketing.
The varied itineraries on both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity promise a fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Spanish flavors against a backdrop of velvet-soft Caribbean beaches and lush rainforests. Ports-of-call include idyllic islands such as Aruba, St. Barth's, Grand Cayman, Antigua, and Turks and Caicos; increasingly trendy Cartagena, Colombia and Huatulco, Mexico; celebrated U.S. beach communities San Diego and Charleston; and classic tourist hotspots Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta. Crystal's "Grand Caribbean Holiday" cruise, round-trip from Miami, anchors in Panama just as dreams of sugarplum fairies are wearing off on Dec 26.
A destination expert will be on board all sailings to fully enlighten guests on the history and remarkable engineering of the Canal and its lock coordination. To add to the milieu, the late-March and early-November Miami-LA sailings have been designated "Science & Technology" Experiences of Discovery voyages, with prominent scientists, astronauts and educators on board to lead stimulating, interactive discussions on the latest technological developments and scientific topics. The August San Francisco-New York voyage will be "Film and Theater"-themed and feature special performances and presentations by stage and film personalities and theater experts. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.
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Princess Cruises Makes Alaska Tour Reservations Easier;
Adds News Excursions This Summer
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Feb 4: Princess Cruises just made it easier to reserve Alaska land excursions from its wilderness lodges this summer. Passengers can now pre-reserve land tours with a new system similar to that used to reserve shipboard shore excursions. Princess is also offering several new tour options in Alaska for 2011, both from the lodges and cruise ships, including active adventures and special family and connoisseur excursions. With the new system, cruisetour travelers can now pre-reserve land excursions through Princess’ Cruise Personalizer along with their shore excursions from the ships. Previously, land excursions were pre-purchased separately or booked at the lodge, and now the new system enables travelers to pre-reserve all their tours together in one place.
“This new capability makes the cruisetour experience even easier for passengers, as they can now reserve all their Alaska tours in one convenient place at the same time,” said Jan Swartz, executive vice president of Princess Cruises. “So now the toughest part of planning excursions will be whether to choose between dog sledding, flight seeing, rafting, or the many other exciting options presented by the local tour operators.”
Introduced this year for Princess passengers are new opportunities to try glacier hiking or gold panning, meet sled dogs, or even experience life at 40 degrees below zero. Several new tours have been selected especially for families, including a treasure hunt around the Denali area. These new tours include:
Land Excursions from Princess Wilderness Lodges:
-- Worthington Glacier Hike: Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge
This tour offers travelers an opportunity to hike on the dramatic Worthington Glacier. Hikers don crampons, metal spikes fastened to the sole of a shoe to provide better traction on ice and snow, and then they’re off on a hike up the glacier to explore the crevasses and sculptured blue ice. Participants will learn the difference between blue and white ice, listen for the creaking sound of calving, and enjoy a lunch break and hot drink. Travelers will also take in the glacier’s intricate ice formations and enjoy expansive views of the Chugach Mountains.
-- Explore Cooper Landing & Gold Panning Adventure: Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge
Passengers can fully explore the Cooper Landing area, known as “the gem of the Kenai Peninsula,” with this comprehensive tour. Participants will learn about the area’s history and try their own hand at gold panning. Visits include the Cooper Landing Historical Society featuring historic buildings, an actual sled dog kennel housing dogs that run the famous Iditarod race, K’beq Archaeological Site where native people share their culture and traditions, and a local homestead. If the salmon are running in the Kenai River, participants can also watch the action as fishermen ''combat fish'' trying to land a salmon.
-- Black Diamond Treasure Hunt: Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge (Family)
This family-friendly tour offers a geo-caching adventure through rugged backcountry trails on a zippy ATV. Participants set the pace, fast and furious or leisurely and relaxing, as they follow a list of scavenger hunt-style objectives. Kids of all ages will have a blast as they locate “treasures” that epitomize the Alaskan outdoors. Using the provided GPS, participants can unearth a treasure trove of mineral samples, Athabascan Indian artifacts, gold-rush era cabins, spectacular vistas and wildlife. Eventually, everyone finds the final missing piece of the puzzle: a hearty, mouth-watering meal of salmon, chicken, ribs and potato salad along with complimentary wine and beer.
Shore Excursions from the ships:
-- Potlatch Totem Park, Hatchery, Bird Show & Meal: Ketchikan (Connoisseur)
This enchanting overview of the sights, sounds and Native culture of Ketchikan offers passengers an intimate look at this part of Alaska. Passengers will enjoy a raptor show at the Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery & Eagle Center and get a private, up-close showing of two birds of prey. At a visit to Potlatch Park, a recreated 19th-century Native village, travelers can examine beautifully carved totem poles, see how Natives lived in the 1800s, and even check out some antique cars. A delicious gourmet seafood meal rounds out this connoisseur experience.
-- Gold Panning, Sled Dogs & 40 Degrees Below Zero Experience: Skagway (Family)
A journey to the Klondike Gold Fields that offers a fun-filled time of gold panning, a sled dog demonstration and a chilly experience to delight the entire family. This kid-friendly tour offers the opportunity to meet and interact with Iditarod sled dogs and their puppies, and then feel the frosty temperatures of an Iditarod race personally in a cold chamber where temperatures drop to 40 degrees below zero. After this chilling experience, families can warm up with a little gold fever and try their luck at panning for gold.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Celebrate Love aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin with a Special Valentine’s Day Package
BELLEVUE, WA, Feb 4: Love is in the air! In honor of Valentine’s Day, Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, is offering an exclusive gift package for guests reserving any 2011 sailing between Feb 4 and Feb 19, 2011. Guests booking this special limited-time offer will receive a Tahitian black pearl and sterling silver pendant, a bottle of Champagne, Leonidas chocolates, and flower turndown service, all compliments of Paul Gauguin Cruises (a $230 value)*. As with all 2011 sailings on The Gauguin, guests receive 50% off standard cruise fares and FREE airfare from Los Angeles. Plus, if they reserve any February-June 2011 sailing by February 19, 2011, they’ll also receive up to $1,000 per couple Guest Privileges Credit.** Guest Privileges Credit may be used for a variety of experiences aboard The Gauguin: to book a shore excursion, indulge in a pampering treatment at the spa, pick up a souvenir at La Boutique, and more.
There is perhaps no greater romantic escape than the magical islands of French Polynesia. Built specifically to navigate the turquoise lagoons of the South Pacific, The Gauguin provides the perfect setting for celebrations of love, offering an idyllic sailing experience for honeymooners, as well as couples celebrating a recent wedding, a renewal of vows, a milestone anniversary—or simply each other. The Gauguin offers a number of customized romantic options for couples, including relaxing spa treatments at the Deep Nature Spa, sunset dinners enjoyed on the private balcony of the couple’s suite or stateroom, private dives and island excursions, celebratory confections and hors d’oeuvres, and a Polynesian blessing ceremony performed by Les Gauguines, the ship’s own troupe of Polynesian entertainers. With one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea, The Gauguin is renowned for the extra touches and attention to detail that make every occasion special.
For rates and reservations for Paul Gauguin Cruises, contact a professional travel agent, call 800-848-6172, or visit www.pgcruises.com.
*One Valentine’s Day gift package per booking. Not combinable with Groups and other select reduced rate offers. Offer expires Feb 19, 2011.
**Maximum $1,000 per stateroom on a 14-night itinerary; $500 per stateroom on all other itineraries. New bookings only. Offer expires Feb 19, 2011.
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Super Bowl XLV to Star on Princess Cruises “Ultimate Big Screen”
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Feb 4: Football fans aboard all Princess Cruises ships around the world will have the opportunity to enjoy a super tailgate party at sea this Sunday February 6, with prime viewing of the match-up between the Pittsburg Steelers and the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XLV. The “Big Game” will be broadcast fleetwide to passengers, including viewing on the ships’ 300-square-foot super-size “Movies Under the Stars” screens. Passengers will be able to follow the action between the AFC and NFC Champions, plus see the halftime show with a performance by the Black Eyed Peas. Fans can enjoy the game with an array of tailgate treats including specially prepared chicken wings, pizza, pigs-in-a-blanket and other game day "munchies," plus beer specials.
“The Super Bowl has become one of the favorite special events we show on our Movies Under the Stars screens each year,” said Jan Swartz, Princess’ executive vice president. “Passengers can also enjoy the exciting halftime show, so we expect a festive party around our poolside big screens.”
Super Bowl broadcasts are planned for all ships in the Princess fleet, subject to satellite availability. The Super Bowl is one of several special events shown on the Movies Under the Stars screens, which will also broadcast the Academy Awards on February 27. The giant LED screens are more than 300 square feet in size with a 69,000-watt sound system and have sufficient lighting power to be seen clearly at mid-day and heard even while the ship is moving at full speed – offering cruise passengers a movie experience comparable to the best shoreside movie theater. In addition to regular movie showings, other special programs presented on the giant screens include sporting events such as the college football Bowl Championship Series, video game contests, a variety of event concerts, and even midnight showings of cult films such as “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com
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Sixthman Celebrates 25th Full Ship Charter with Carnival Cruise Lines
Music-themed cruise experts Sixthman and Carnival Cruise Lines celebrated the completion of their 25th full ship charter with the line--Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Simple Man cruise aboard the Carnival Inspiration--with a special celebration in their Atlanta headquarters earlier this month. Since 2001, the Sixthman team has brought top musical acts onboard Carnival’s “Fun Ships,” including Kid Rock, John Mayer, Zac Brown Band, VH1’s Best Cruise Ever and many others.
“We are so proud to reach this milestone with Carnival,” said Andy Levine, president and founder of Sixthman. “They have been a great partner and we continue to find new ways to make the guest experience better. We respect the fact that even though we are only a small percentage of their total business, they treat us as though we are an important partner shoreside and onboard.”
During the celebration, Carnival sales executives Joni Rein, vice president of worldwide sales; Vicky Rey, vice president of guest services; John Diulus, managing director of strategic partnerships and Tom Dougher, director of strategic partnerships, presented the Sixthman team with a special Carnival ship model and shared a congratulatory champagne toast.
“Everyone on the Sixthman team is an absolute expert at what they do and it shows in the sold out fun-filled cruises they create on our ships,” said Rein. We look forward to working with them on more full ship charters in the years to come.”
Sixthman’s 26th Carnival charter, The 311 Caribbean Cruise aboard the Carnival Destiny, sets sail in March 2011.
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2010 Record Year for Grand Turk Cruise Center
GRAND TURK, B.W.I., Feb 3: Five years ago the Grand Turk Cruise Center (GTCC) was dubbed the “Caribbean’s newest cruise port facility,” destined to become a favorite of vacationers from around the world. With its state-of-the-art facilities and convenient access to the island’s breathtaking white-sand beaches, the Grand Turk Cruise Center has far exceeded those expectations. The 2010 cruise season was a record for the GTCC with a total of 248 calls from 40 cruise ships representing 14 different cruise brands. The Grand Turk Cruise Center hosted a record 622,720 passengers, representing a 19 percent increase over the previous year and a whopping 113 percent increase over 2006, the center’s first year of operation.
The Grand Turk Cruise Center continues to evolve with more retail outlets and attractions than ever before. New stores within the GTCC’s 45,000-square-foot shopping district include Colombian Emeralds, Effy Jewelers, Diamonds International and Silver Sun. These retailers joined an array of popular merchants, including Dufry, Milano Diamond Gallery, Ron Jon Surf Shop©, Piranha Joes, Dizzy Donkey, Del Sol, Rasta Pasta, Royal Jewels, Indigo Pearls, Goldsmith and The Trading Post, as well as a variety of local craft stands and souvenir kiosks.
The GTCC has also joined forces with NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in developing a new attraction that commemorates the National Aeronautics & Space Administration’s (NASA) Mercury space program and the historic 1962 splashdown of the Friendship 7 capsule off the coast of Grand Turk. Opened late last month, Splashdown Grand Turk is a 3,500-square-foot attraction that celebrates the unique relationship of the American spaceflight mission and its importance to Grand Turk’s history with interactive exhibits and authentic spacecraft replicas.
In addition to these new features, the GTCC enhanced the 1.25 square acres of beach located on the south side of the facility, making it even more appealing to visitors. The area now features upgraded beach furniture, coconut palms and other landscaping, and a new Turkoise Beach Bar serving drinks and light refreshments. A “cool zone” with various misting machines is scheduled to open soon.
“In just five years in operation, Grand Turk Cruise Center has become one of the most popular cruise facilities in the Caribbean, more than doubling its passenger counts and adding a host of new amenities and attractions, while serving as a gateway to one of the world’s most breathtaking and beautiful destinations," said Giora Israel, senior vice president of port and destination development for Carnival Corporation & plc, which operates the facility.
Covering more than 14 acres, the Grand Turk Cruise Center can accommodate up to 7,000 passengers per day and features a private beach, swimming pool, and an expansive recreation area that includes a FlowRider® surfing adventure and the Caribbean’s largest "Margaritaville"-themed bar and restaurant.For more information on the Grand Turk Cruise Center, visit www.grandturkcc.com
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Azamara Partners With PerryGolf to Offer All-Inclusive Golf & Cruise Packages Featuring the World's Top Courses
MIAMI & WILMINGTON, NC, Feb 2: Azamara Club Cruises, the destination-immersive cruise line for up-market travelers, today announced a strategic relationship with PerryGolf, the renowned luxury golf tour operator, to offer Azamara Club Golf Cruises, an escorted and all-inclusive golf tour and cruise program that features some of the world’s premier golf courses. Designed specifically with the passionate golfer in mind and offering more opportunities for guests to play at more courses on a voyage, Azamara Club Golf Cruises combines a range of compelling itineraries with the superior golf experience that PerryGolf has refined since 1984. Azamara Club Golf Cruises add-ons are available through travel agents and Azamara directly, starting at $2,682 per person, as well as non-golfing companion rates, starting at $669 per person.
“We are proud to offer up-market travelers Azamara Club Golf Cruises, a truly superior golf program in the cruise industry catering to the avid golf player and their non-golfing companion,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. “Our partnership is a connection of excellence with PerryGolf, reflecting our dedication to deliver unique and immersive travel experiences to our guests with some of the best brands in their fields. Azamara Club Golf Cruises offers the services and amenities of a country club experience, a new and elevated dimension for guests to play on some of the world’s most renowned golfing destinations aboard a distinctive Azamara voyage.”
Azamara Club Golf Cruises’ guests enjoy a carefree experience as they cruise and golf among a collection of the world’s finest courses, fully escorted by a PerryGolf tour manager, who attends to all of the details that golfers appreciate on land and on board. All golf programs commence with a one- or two-night pre-voyage golfing land stay, which includes luxury hotel accommodations, welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow guests, and dinner with select wines to share in the camaraderie of the sport, as well as optional sightseeing tours for an additional charge. During their voyage, guests will play at four or five of the world’s most heralded courses, such as Old Head and Portmarnock, Ireland; Oitavos Dunes, Portugal; Montgomerie Links, Vietnam; Mission Hills, China; Four Seasons Provence, France; and Sperone, Corsica, depending on the itinerary.
“PerryGolf is delighted to offer our distinctive golfing program through Azamara Club Golf Cruises,” said Gordon Dalgleish, president of PerryGolf. “We share Azamara Club Cruises’ strong commitment to deliver a remarkable, luxury experience to guests at unique destinations. PerryGolf takes care of every aspect of the experience, from reservations to post-game activities, to offer guests the opportunity to fully enjoy spectacular golf courses and the camaraderie developed with like-minded fellow golfers.”
Included also in the program are overnight golf shoe shining, green fees, golf cart rental, ground transportation, and golf bag delivery to the first tee and return to hotel or ship and storage after the round. On board, Azamara Club Golf Cruises guests enjoy an inclusive drink package, post-game cocktail receptions with fellow enthusiasts, and two group dinners, one in a specialty restaurant, to recount the day’s play. Single supplements starting at $263 also apply for the pre-voyage portion of the program.
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Silversea Partners With Slow Food Promozione
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Feb 1: Silversea Cruises is pleased to announce a new partnership agreement with Slow Food Promozione, an arm of Slow Food Italy. The collaboration will focus on highlighting the Italian heritage of La Terrazza, a specialty restaurant featured aboard the all-suite, ultra-luxury ships Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit.
Founded in Italy in 1986, Slow Food has become an international organization dedicated to promoting greater enjoyment of food through a better understanding of its taste, quality and production. It seeks to defend biodiversity in our food supply, spread the education of taste, and link producers of excellent foods to consumers through events and initiatives.
Silversea and Slow Food will jointly work at sourcing food products from around the world that meet the standards of Slow Food. Starting this summer, with voyages to Europe and the Mediterranean, Silversea's La Terrazza will be the first and only restaurant at sea to display the Presidio Slow Food logo next to foods that comply with the philosophy of Slow Food, including products made by producers that are part of the Terra Madre project, a global network of food communities committed to responsible and sustainable food production.
"We believe this partnership will enhance our guests' dining experience," said Rudi Scholdis, Silversea's director of culinary development. "At the same time, we take pride in supporting Slow Food's mission to link pleasure and food with awareness and responsibility."
The joint initiative will also entail a program of special Slow Food culinary voyages designed to showcase products of excellent gastronomic quality, help guests rediscover the joys of eating, and understand the importance of caring where their food comes from, who makes it and how it's made.
Slow Food Promozione is a commercial arm of Slow Food Italy and deals predominantly with the organization of major events such as the Salone del Gusto, Cheese, and Slow Fish, in addition to fundraising, publicity and sponsorship sourcing. Its main purpose is to achieve and fund the Slow Food association's goals: defense of biodiversity and educational activities. For more information, visit www.slowfood.it.
Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury cruise line industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit--all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, Silversea Cruises' itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both polar regions and over 400 fascinating destinations in between.
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