Cruise News from Cruise Diva Linda Coffman's Cruise Planner

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SANTA CLARITA, CA -- Princess Cruises is set to deliver its first year-round Caribbean ship next week, and who better to set the tone for the most romantic vessel to sail the tropics than the crew of the original Love Boat? At 6 pm on April 2, the line featured in the iconic television show will offer anyone with internet access a front row seat for a very special celebration combining the wedding of Jill Whelan, who for nearly a decade played "Captain Stubing's" daughter, "Vicki," with a traditional christening ceremony on the top deck the new Caribbean Princess.

"Combining a wedding with a more traditional naming ceremony seemed a natural for our new Caribbean 'Love Boat'," said Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales. "And who better to symbolize the romance of cruising than Jill Whelan, who virtually grew up on the TV show? Her dual role as both bride and godmother is as unique as the experience the Caribbean Princess will offer our passengers in this destination."

Live internet wedding broadcasts are not new for Princess. The line pioneered "Wed-Cams" with the launch of its first Grand Class vessel in 1998, allowing couples who opt for seagoing nuptials to share their special day with friends and family at home. Princess is the only cruise line able to offer legally binding weddings performed by the ship's Captain in international waters.

"Generally speaking, one of a bride's most difficult tasks is paring down her guest list," said Whelan. "I am so excited to be able to share both of these very special events not only with my family and friends, but also with Love Boat fans who might be interested in attending 'virtually.' I get to marry the man I love, and be the godmother of Caribbean Princess in one fell swoop -- it certainly sounds like the "Love Boat," doesn't it?"

The dual celebration will be broadcast live online at www.princess.com from Fort Lauderdale 6-7:30 pm Eastern Time, and will include commentary from Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing) and Bernie Kopell (Doc) from the show's cast. Highlights of the event will be available online following the broadcast.

Among Caribbean Princess' many features, there will be plenty of opportunities for romantic activities, especially with the ship's unique "Movies Under the Stars," a 300 sq. ft. poolside LED screen showing evening movies in pre-reserved lounge chairs; private balcony dining en-suite; a brand new Lotus Spa offering a variety of treatments created specifically for couples; and Princess' signature Hearts & Minds wedding chapel. More than 1,000 weddings have taken place aboard Princess ships since 1998 when the line introduced "Tie the Knot," the only at-sea wedding program.

Caribbean Princess will sail roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale on a Western Caribbean itinerary with calls at Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios (or Montego Bay), Cozumel and Princess Cays, Princess' private island in the Bahamas. It has an alternating Eastern Caribbean itinerary with stops in St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Princess Cays.

One of the best-known names in North American cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company. Part of Carnival Corporation & plc, its current fleet of 12 ships sail on approximately 150 different itineraries around the globe, calling at more than 260 ports on all seven continents. By 2006 a further three ships will be introduced. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com

Celebrity Cruises Breaks the Ice:
Launches Arctic, Antarctic Xpeditions
Polar-Class Icebreaker Takes Guests to Remote Regions in Celebrity Style

MIAMI -- The latest Celebrity Xpeditions(SM) exotic travel experience from Celebrity Cruises just might give you chills. Partnering with polar explorations leader Quark Expeditions, Celebrity will take guests to the isolated Arctic and Antarctic on 12- and 13- night voyages aboard a polar-class icebreaker. "We promised to go to the ends of the earth to offer our guests extraordinary experiences, and that's literally where our latest Celebrity Xpeditions will take them," said Celebrity's President and COO Jack Williams.

"These incredible new cruises represent another series of opportunities for savvy travelers to be 'treated famously' in rare, remote destinations." The platform for the latest Celebrity Xpedition is Quark Expeditions' 112-guest Kapitan Khlebnikov, a powerful, polar-class icebreaker with a 434-foot length considered ideal for navigating around icebergs and ice floes.

"Celebrity Xpeditions-High Arctic" is a 13-night itinerary departing roundtrip from Ottawa, Canada, on August 11, and September 3, 2004. Against a backdrop of mountains, glaciers and fjords, the ship cruises through dense ice to Resolute; Lancaster Sound, home to whales, polar bears and Arctic seals; Coburg Island, circled by rocky ledges dotted with rare seabirds; Smith Sound, Kane Basin and Ellesmere Island; northern Greenland's administrative capital, Qaanaaq (Thule); the migratory bird sanctuary of Bylot Island, and Beechy Island, where Sir John Franklin set out in the mid-1800s with 134 men and two ships to find the Northwest Passage and mysteriously disappeared. The cruise also takes guests directly through drift ice to Cape York, featuring the scenic Melville Bay and multiple breeds of marine mammals.

At the other end of the earth, "Celebrity Xpeditions-Antarctic" is a 12- night voyage departing roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina, on October 25 and November 5, 2004. Kapitan Khlebnikov takes guests past glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains to Drake Passage, known for numerous albatrosses and widely varied seabirds; Elephant Island, where legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton's famed Endurance sank in 1915; the South Shetland Islands, including the wildlife-rich Half Moon Island, Livingstone Island, and the active volcano of Deception Island; Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of South America and the legendary seafaring point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet, and five full days in the Antarctic Sound and Peninsula, known for some of the continent's rarest wildlife, massive drifting icebergs, towering rock faces, crater islands and dramatic glaciers.

The Celebrity experience onboard includes an open bridge, sauna, exercise room, cold water plunge pool, dining room with open seating, library, lounge, bar and theatre, where enrichment lectures, video presentations and films are presented. Excursions feature transportation on inflatable Zodiacs and helicopters.

Fares for Celebrity Xpeditions-High Arctic begin at $9,000 per person, double occupancy, and include roundtrip air from Ottawa to Resolute; hotel accommodations in Ottawa; all meals onboard the ship; transfers to charter flights and the ship; all beverages, including house brands of beer, wine and spirits; all onboard gratuities, including those for naturalists; complimentary parka with Celebrity Xpeditions logo, and shore excursions, including helicopter tours.

Fares for Celebrity Xpeditions-Antarctic begin at $8,500 per person, double occupancy, and include hotel accommodations in Ushuaia, Argentina; all meals onboard the vessel; transfers to the ship; all beverages, including house brands of beer, wine and spirits; all onboard gratuities, including those for naturalists; complimentary parka with Celebrity Xpeditions logo, and shore excursions, including helicopter tours.

Kapitan Khlebnikov offers outside stateroom and suite accommodations in five categories, in dimensions ranging from 135 to 285 square feet. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebrity.com

MIAMI, March 29 -- From slow, sultry rhythms to fast-paced, feet-pounding beats, the romance and excitement of the tango has captivated audiences throughout the ages. Now, Royal Caribbean International is bringing this exotic Latin-American dance to sea with an exclusive new show, "Tango Buenos Aires." The show will appear on the line's newest ship, Jewel of the Seas, which is scheduled to be delivered to the company on April 23, 2004. Featuring popular Argentinean tango couple Ruben and Sabrina Veliz, "Tango Buenos Aires" takes the audience through the history and fascinating incarnations of the dance, from the athletic "Apache" to the "Elegant Tango," reminiscent of the age of Valentino. The daring of the gauchos is captured in an energetic performance by the entire show cast, complete with a precision demonstration of bolos, the legendary lasso-like tool of the famed South American cowboy. Argentinean musicians join the Royal Caribbean orchestra and featured vocalists in performing stirring music, including the haunting anthem, "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina."

"'Tango Buenos Aires' is one of the most exciting shows we've ever produced and staged," said Maria Sastre, vice president of Hotel Operations for Royal Caribbean International. "With 'Tango Buenos Aires,' we continue our long tradition of exceptional entertainment offerings on our ships. Our production director spent time in Buenos Aires to learn the rich history and artistry of the dance and to meet with the incredibly talented dancers and musicians. The result is a breathtaking, unique show that we are proud to share with our guests on Jewel of the Seas."

The tango show rounds out an already abundant entertainment lineup set to debut with Jewel of the Seas. The ship's 915-seat Coral Theater also will be home to two Broadway-style spectaculars: "City of Dreams," with tunes from top artists such as Billy Joel, Elton John and Celine Dion; and "From West End to Broadway," filled with showstoppers from Cole Porter classics to favorites from blockbuster musicals like "Les Miserables."

"Guests on Jewel of the Seas will have a wealth of additional entertainment to enjoy throughout the ship," said Peter Compton, associate vice president of Entertainment for Royal Caribbean International. "Jewel has a number of lounges, clubs and bars that offer outstanding entertainment throughout the cruise."

The Safari Club secondary lounge features dance bands, karaoke nights and theme parties, while the line's signature, nautical-themed Schooner Bar is a great gathering place to enjoy sing-along piano music. Guests can head to the Viking Crown Lounge to dance the night away at the Vortex nightclub, or enjoy a more intimate evening with jazz performances or solo artists in the Hollywood Odyssey lounge.

The 2,112-guest Jewel of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's fourth and final Radiance-class ship. In addition to myriad entertainment options, Jewel also features a wide range of activities and amenities to appeal to guests of all ages from the adults-only Solarium and luxurious ShipShape Day Spa to the rock-climbing wall and miniature golf course.

Jewel of the Seas will spend the summer in Europe, sailing 12-night Scandinavia/Russia and British Isles/Norwegian Fjords itineraries from Harwich, England. In the fall, she will cross the Atlantic to offer 10-night Canada/New England journeys from Boston before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale for the winter, where she will sail alternating eight-night Eastern Caribbean and six-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 18 ships in service, and two more under construction or on firm order, including Jewel of the Seas. The company also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700

CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo. -- Century Casinos, Inc. announced that on March 27, 2004 the casino aboard the Silver Cloud, a 296-passenger ultra luxury vessel operated by Silversea Cruises, resumed its operations following a break in regular service for periodic maintenance of five months. Silver Cloud embarked on its scheduled itinerary to Monte Carlo and will spend the summer in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The casino aboard Silver Cloud is equipped with 15 slot machines and 3 gaming tables.

Silversea Cruises is a world-renowned, six-star cruise line based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2004 and operates four cruise vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Shadow, Silver Wind and Silver Whisper. Century Casinos has the exclusive right to install and operate casinos aboard the four vessels.

In addition to casinos aboard Silversea Cruises vessels, Century Casinos operates casinos aboard the Regatta, a 684-passenger vessel operated by Oceania Cruises, and another aboard The World of ResidenSea, the world's first luxury residential community at sea.

MIAMI -- Carnival Corporation & plc, the world's largest cruise operator, has been included in the "The BusinessWeek 50," a ranking of the top-performing companies of the S&P 500. Carnival is the only leisure company included in the annual list, which is featured in the April 5, 2004, issue of the publication. Unlike other lists, which simply rank companies based on size or stock performance, according to the magazine, "The BusinessWeek 50" recognizes "companies that symbolize the best in Corporate America, both in operational performance and in their ability to convert that success into lucrative gains for shareholders."

Rankings are based on a wide range of factors, including revenue growth, profits, net margins, debt levels, sales volume, and shareholder returns over both one- and three-year periods.

Commented Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison, "We are very pleased to be included in 'The BusinessWeek 50,' and this recognition speaks volumes about the exceptional performance of our company over the past three years. We're coming off one of the most difficult periods in the history of travel. Yet, despite these challenges, we continually outperformed all other companies in the leisure travel sector, maintaining a constant focus on providing quality vacations at tremendous value, while keeping an eye on the bottom line and earning returns for our shareholders."

Carnival Corporation & plc is the only company in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices and most recently was added to the NYSE U.S. 100 Index.

LOS ANGELES, March 29 -- Crystal Cruises unveils its 2005 worldwide itineraries with a record number of cruises visiting 185 ports in 64 countries to all seven continents, including a 101-day World Cruise. For 2005, Crystal Cruises is balancing its award-winning, luxurious onboard experience with more port intensive itineraries; a greater variety of shorter, closer-to-home cruises; and 14 maiden calls. In all, the luxury line is offering a selection of 95 cruises aboard the luxurious Crystal Harmony, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

Crystal Cruises opened the books just a few weeks ago and already bookings are 94% ahead for 2005 versus the 2004 bookings made at this time in 2003. The 2005 Cruise Guide, a preview to the full Atlas currently in production, publishes this week and is available by calling 866.446.6625. Itineraries and fares are also on the website at www.crystalcruises.com

Highlights of 2005 include:

* A 101-day World Cruise -- Beginning in Los Angeles on January 15 and concluding in London, the 2005 World Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity marks Crystal Cruises' ninth World Cruise and will include a passage of the Suez Canal and sailing the Mediterranean. The ultimate voyage is available in six segments.

* Antarctica -- To its winter South America series, Crystal Symphony adds a cruise to Antarctica, marking the ship's second visit to the region since February, 2003.

* Alaska cruises with two glacier experiences on each cruise -- Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier and the newly added Tracy Arm. Ten 12-day Alaska cruises round-trip from San Francisco plus a new seven-day cruise round-trip from Vancouver.

* More port intensive European itineraries -- overnight visits on most cruises, an average eight ports on 12-day cruises (in addition to the embarkation and disembarkation ports), plus a three-day, two-night shipboard stay in St. Petersburg on most Baltic cruises.

* New fall Mexican Riviera season -- Crystal Harmony will make a total of eight cruises roundtrip from Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera, including four seven-day itineraries and four 10-day cruises.

* Shorter itineraries -- Crystal is adding a record number of seven- and eight-day cruise opportunities, with -- four seven-day and two eight-day voyages on Crystal Symphony.
   -- five seven-day cruises and one eight-day itinerary on Crystal Harmony and
   -- two seven-day cruises aboard Crystal Serenity.
   -- A total of 14 shorter cruises have been set for Alaska, Europe, Caribbean, New England/Canada and Mexican Riviera.

* Close-to-home itineraries complement exotic voyages --
   -- 32 cruises sailing round-trip from domestic ports, for those who appreciate the convenience of leaving and returning from a U.S. port-of-call;
   -- 23 cruises that begin or end in a domestic port, representing 57% of the 95 2005 cruises; as well as
   -- 40 voyages showcasing the world, including Europe, Asia, South America and a World Cruise.

"As evidenced by the strong advance response, Crystal Cruises' 2005 itineraries reflect the diverse interests of luxury travelers today," says Gregg Michel, president, Crystal Cruises. "Some relish more exotic destinations, extended stays in ports, and more port intensive cruises, while others prefer to luxuriate on Crystal's floating hotels from closer-to-home destinations. We also know that some luxury travelers are intrigued by a combination of experiences that can include a more exotic trip during one season and a more convenient trip in the next. We've designed a cruise collection to appeal to both."

Crystal Serenity
Crystal Serenity kicks off the year with a Mexican Riviera cruise before embarking on the 101-day World Cruise, which concludes with a rich European port segment. In the spring and summer, Crystal Serenity will offer 16 Mediterranean cruises, adding two seven-day Mediterranean cruises to its collection of 12-day journeys. In the fall, Crystal Serenity heads back to North America, from Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale, on a Transatlantic crossing that includes an overnight visit in Bermuda. In late November, Crystal Serenity makes a 10-day Caribbean cruise round-trip from Fort Lauderdale with an inaugural call at Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos. A Panama Canal cruise positions Crystal Serenity back on the West Coast for a Christmas/New Year voyage to the Mexican Riviera, round-trip from Los Angeles.

Crystal Harmony
Crystal Harmony spends the winter cruising the Panama Canal and Mexican Riviera, including an option departing from San Diego. In the spring, Crystal Harmony returns to Asia for a series of 14-day cruise/land programs in China and Japan, which include a complimentary three-day land package in Beijing. The summer finds Crystal Harmony back in Alaska, round-trip from San Francisco for most of the season. In the fall, Crystal Harmony begins a new fall season cruising the Mexican Riviera. In December, the luxury vessel will reposition through the Panama Canal to New Orleans, whereby she'll conclude the year with a new 12-day Christmas/New Year cruise round-trip from New Orleans to the Caribbean.

Crystal Symphony
Crystal Symphony begins the year with a unique Panama Canal cruise from Fort Lauderdale down the West Coast of Peru and Chile to Valparaiso, a cruise that offers fascinating excursions to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. The luxury vessel will remain in South America through February for two cruises around Cape Horn and through the Chilean Fjords, including an 18-day voyage that features three days cruising around the Antarctica Peninsula.

In March and April, Crystal Symphony will cruise through the Caribbean and Panama Canal, respectively. Following a Transatlantic cruise, Crystal Symphony will spend May in the Mediterranean and then head north for a series of Baltic, North Cape and British Isles cruises. In September, she'll head west across the Atlantic to begin a New England/Canada fall foliage series. Come November and December, Crystal Symphony heads south for more tropical cruises in the Panama Canal and Caribbean, rounding out the year with a festive Christmas/New Year cruise in the Caribbean round-trip from Fort Lauderdale.

The Crystal Experience
The 940-guest, 50,000-ton Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony were joined by the 1,080-guest, 68,000-ton Crystal Serenity in early July 2003. For the eighth consecutive year, luxury cruise line Crystal Cruises has been named the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" in Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler magazines' annual readers' surveys. The line's spa, fitness, entertainment and enrichment programming continues to earn the highest accolades among consumer polls as well as respective critics.

Choices are at the heart of the Crystal experience. Crystal's distinctive combination of features has distinguished its ships and services in the luxury cruise market:

* Exquisitely appointed staterooms and suites, more than half of which offer private verandahs. All accommodations offer Frette robes, two hairdryers, European featherbeds, down comforters, and a choice of luxurious pillows, among other amenities.

* Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks, bottled water and specialty coffees.

* Caesars Palace at Sea casino, the only cruise ship casino operated by a famed gaming establishment.

* European dining staff.

* With up to seven dining venues, Crystal offers a choice of open seating in its specialty restaurants or classic assigned seating in the Crystal Dining Room, with the same table and same waiter who can anticipate one's personal requests.

* Each ship features the classic dining experience plus at least two specialty restaurants, including Silk Road and The Sushi Bar on Crystal Serenity, featuring cuisine by the noted Nobu Matsuhisa.

* A classic Bistro, for specialty coffees and gourmet snacks throughout the day.

* Full Promenade Deck for jogging and walking.

* A cinema for large-screen viewing of recent releases and classic films.

* Feng Shui-designed, state of the art spas and fitness centers, offering group exercise classes, yoga, Pilates and personal training.

MIAMI (March 29, 2004) - Daytona Beach, Fla.-based High Performance Travel & Tours and Carnival Cruise Lines are hosting a special seven-day charity group cruise with Paul Burrell, Princess Diana's personal butler and best-selling author of "A Royal Duty," aboard the Carnival Glory Dec. 4-11, 2004. Proceeds from the voyage benefit Special Olympics of Florida.

The week-long cruise will operate round-trip from Port Canaveral, Fla., and feature port calls to Key West, Fla.; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico. During the voyage, Burrell will sign copies of his book, as well as host question-and-answer sessions focusing on his more than two decades of service to the Royal Family. Burrell will also auction items from his personal collection of Royal Family memorabilia, with proceeds benefiting Special Olympics of Florida. A private cocktail reception with Burrell will be held, as well, and participants will have the opportunity to win a chance to dine with Burrell one night during the cruise.

Special Olympics will also host a fundraising auction on board featuring signed memorabilia from various athletes and celebrities. "This event provides participants with an opportunity to learn more about Paul Burrell's wide-ranging experiences during his more than 20 years of service to the Royal Family, all while raising funds for a very worthwhile cause," said Daniel Borg, president of High Performance Cruise & Travel. Burrell arrived at Buckingham Palace as an under-butler in 1976 at age 18. In 1987, he became butler to Prince Charles and Princess Diana and served as Princess Diana's personal butler from 1992 to her death in 1997. He has been honored by the Queen with the Royal Victorian Medal for his years of service and was appointed as fundraising and events manager of the Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Fund. In addition to various events and activities hosted by Burrell during this voyage, participants can also enjoy Carnival Glory's wide range of resort-style amenities and facilities, including 22 lounges and bars, four swimming pools, a 214-foot-long water slide, a duty-free shopping mall, full casino gambling, and a 14,500-square-foot health club.

Four restaurants, including twin two-level dining rooms, an expansive poolside eatery, and an upscale steakhouse-style supper club, are also housed within the ship's 12 passenger decks. A patisserie and complimentary 24-hour stateroom service are featured, as well. A comprehensive golf program offering professional instruction both aboard ship and during golf excursions is also available.

High Performance Cruise & Travel is currently accepting reservations for this voyage. Prices begin at $589 per person, based on double occupancy. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available. For additional information and reservations, call High Performance Cruise & Travel at 386-252-4423 or visit www.highperformancetravel.com

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MIAMI (March 26, 2004) - Responding to the escalating trend toward shorter, more frequent vacations, Carnival Cruise Lines will increase its short cruise offerings this year by 50 percent and provide consumers with 39 different short cruise itineraries, including departures from two new homeports - Jacksonville, Fla., and Mobile, Ala.

"Carnival continues to break new ground in the short cruise arena and our new four- and five-day departures from Jacksonville and Mobile reflect our focus on this vacation segment which caters to those seeking convenient, close-to-home vacation alternatives," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, short cruises (voyages of five days or less in length) are the fastest-growing segment in the cruise industry. In fact, 13 of Carnival's 20 "Fun Ships" will operate short cruises from 13 different North American homeports - the most of any cruise line - this year.

"Time is a precious commodity these days and more consumers are gravitating toward quick, affordable getaways. Carnival's short 'Fun Ship' cruises are perfectly suited for today's lifestyles, providing an unparalleled combination of value, choice and flexibility, with more itineraries and departure points than ever before," said Dickinson.

Many consumers are opting to combine their "Fun Ship" vacation with a pre- or post-cruise land stay, creating customized land/cruise packages. Carnival has expanded its efforts in this area, adding luxurious new hotel properties such as the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Beach Club in Jacksonville, Sheraton Hotel & Towers in New York, and Westin Long Beach Hotel in Long Beach.

Carnival's short "Fun Ship" departures complement a wide variety of six- to 16-day cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, and Canada/New England. For additional information and reservations on all Carnival "Fun Ship" itineraries, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups) or visit the line's travel agent Internet portal, www.bookccl.com

About Windstar Cruises - Seattle-based Windstar Cruises operates three motor sailing yachts known for their casually elegant atmosphere. A high-percentage of return guests attests to the appeal of Windstar's casual ambiance of resort-style attire, innovative cuisine and wine selections, open restaurant-style seating, attentive service, exotic destinations and complimentary water sports. A recent multi-million dollar investment in the Windstar fleet enhanced each ship with new amenities and facilities ranging from new flat screen TVs and DVD players in staterooms to new fabrics, décor and window treatments throughout the ship. 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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Celebrity Cruises, Cirque du Soleil Enter Exclusive Alliance
Unique Affiliation Will Dramatically Accelerate Two Brands' Momentum

MIAMI, March 24 -- Celebrity Cruises and world- renowned entertainment enterprise Cirque du Soleil have taken a bold move that will accelerate the already rapid momentum the two brands have built. In an exclusive, six-year agreement, Celebrity will sponsor Cirque du Soleil touring shows in North America and Europe, offer guests one-of-a-kind pre- and post-cruise experiences, capitalize on a variety of cross-marketing opportunities, and develop an exclusive and unique entertainment concept onboard select ships.

"This is far more than a product alliance; it is a brand breakthrough that will touch every aspect of our organization," said Celebrity's President and COO Jack Williams. "Our new partnership will provide Celebrity with a powerful brand differentiator, and will provide our travel partners with incredible selling tools, and our guests with unparalleled entertainment."

Since its founding in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has entertained more than 40 million people in 90 cities around the world. Through its sponsorship of Cirque du Soleil's North American and European tours, Celebrity will have a presence in all critical markets in North America and Europe, with shows that annually attract in excess of two million spectators, and demographics that closely match that of Celebrity's savvy guests.

Details about the Cirque du Soleil onboard entertainment concept will be announced in May. "It is very exciting to match two young, dynamic and rapidly growing companies in such a unique manner," said Cirque du Soleil Vice President of Marketing Mario D'Amico. "This new alliance in a completely new category is stimulating. It will broaden our reach to new customers and disperse more of Cirque's creativity around the globe. We believe Celebrity Cruises shares our contemporary vision and recognizes our creative input. This new partnership is thrilling, and promises to flourish over the years."

This major new development comes just three months after Celebrity's announcement of Celebrity Xpeditions, a series of exotic experiences and exceptional excursions in the Galapagos Islands and elsewhere, and one year after the line unveiled ConciergeClass, a new category of plush accommodations, in addition to an extensive series of brand enhancements designed to add "a taste of luxury" to the top-ranked premium product.

Cirque du Soleil is recognized worldwide for its elaborate and creative productions. Cirque's wish is to offer creators from all backgrounds and origins the freedom to dream the wildest dreams and the platform to make them come true. Cirque du Soleil is a creative content provider for a wide variety of unique projects. The heart of Cirque du Soleil's activity is creating live shows and presenting them under Grand Chapiteaus or theaters. Since 1984, more than 60 creators from the four corners of the globe have contributed their talents to this end. Cirque du Soleil always seeks to imbue each new project with the energy and spirit that are the hallmark of its shows. For more information, visit the Cirque du Soleil web site at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Celebrity Cruises is the industry's highest-rated premium cruise brand with a taste of luxury. The cruise line has 10 ships in its fleet, which is the youngest of any major line. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, California, the Caribbean, Europe, the Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebrity.com

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Viking River Cruises Announces Build of New Ship
Partnership With China's New Century Cruise Company Ensures Comfort, Style, Safety for New Viking Century Sky

LOS ANGELES -- Responding to strong interest in its China Yangtze River Cruises, industry leader Viking River Cruises announced it has signed an agreement with Chongqing New Century Cruise Company to add a second ship, Viking Century Sky, to its China fleet. The new ship will join the recently launched Viking Century Star on the Yangtze River for the 2005 sailing season.

"Viking River Cruises and New Century Cruise Company work in partnership to ensure the highest standards of comfort, safety and style," says Viking River Cruises chairman Torstein Hagen. "We are extremely pleased with the bookings we have achieved on the Viking Century Star for 2004 and we felt it was right to add at least one more vessel for 2005. I believe a Yangtze cruise is even more exciting now that the Three Gorges Dam has been completed."

Viking River Cruises will be responsible for the hotel and catering management on board the vessels, which will be the only vessels on the Yangtze equipped with Western kitchen and service. World famous chef Martin Yan has designed an authentic Chinese menu that will also give passengers a taste of local cuisine.

Viking Century Sky will include a lounge, restaurant, sauna, sun deck, bar, massage room and beauty salon. An Internet bar will keep passengers in touch with the world around them and two elevators will aid passengers with onboard navigation of the ship's five decks. Scandinavian-influenced décor will reflect the cruise line's Viking heritage and surround passengers with elegant contemporary style in all cabins and public areas. Measuring 126.8 meters in length and 17.2 meters in width with a capacity of more than 300 passengers, Viking Century Sky is Viking River Cruises' largest ship yet. All cabins will be equipped with a balcony, telephone, hairdryer, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower.

For 2004, Viking River Cruises offers five itineraries exploring China, ranging from nine to 16 nights, and centered on a seven-night Yangtze River cruise, with add-on land packages that customize the experience. For 2005, Viking River Cruises will also offer shorter three- and four-day cruises in cooperation with tour operator partners and longer nine-day cruises between Chongqing and Shanghai. All will be marketed as part of a cruisetour package, including Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises toll-free at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) or visit the company online at www.vikingrivercruises.com

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Greater Fort Lauderdale "Waters Down" Prices at Hotels & Water Attractions This Summer
"Ride Our Waters Free" Program Offer Savings on Land and Sea

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - March 25, 2004 - With savings on both accommodations and attractions, Greater Fort Lauderdale's "Ride Our Waters Free" program is sure to turn a land lover into a seafarer. From May 15 through September 30, 2004, visitors who spend at least two nights at a discounted rate (from $45 - $159) in one of 21 participating hotels will receive a $50 voucher towards their choice of seven water attractions. So whether they're navigating the Everglades by airboat, enjoying a riverboat sightseeing tour, or exploring the Intracoastal Waterway via the area's unique Water Taxi system, visitors taking advantage of the "Ride Our Waters Free" program will see more blue ripples for less green paper.

With the validated voucher, guests can enjoy one of the following:

Adventure World, action packed recreation center offering jet skis, air cat, kayaking, boat excursions, fishing expeditions, Segway® tours and more www.abcadventureworld.com
Billie Swamp Safari Airboat Tour, an opportunity to see firsthand one of the world's most intriguing environments, Big Cypress, the water shed of the Florida Everglades www.seminoletribe.com
Stay dry while getting an up close look at the teaming undersea life of the Atlantic Ocean with a Glass Bottom Boat Tour www.prodiveusa.com
Jungle Queen Sightseeing Cruise, a riverboat adventure with a 60-year history www.junglequeen.com
Glide through trails amidst a "Sea of Grass" while encountering alligators and birds on a Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Ride www.evergladestours.com
Discover the destination's spectacular three-tiered natural reef system and 80 artificial reefs with South Florida Diving Headquarters "Try Scuba" program www.southfloridadiving.com
Navigate the inland waterways, which connect the world-class boutiques, galleries and restaurants on chic Las Olas Boulevard, and the museums, theaters and nightspots of Riverwalk, via Water Taxi www.watertaxi.com

The "Ride Our Waters Free" offer is available by calling 800-22-SUNNY or logging onto www.sunny.org. Travelers present the original voucher for validation upon hotel check-in and then use the voucher at one of the seven participating water attractions.

In addition to free water attractions and special hotel deals, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers a full range of family activities. Visitors can enjoy Greater Fort Lauderdale's Blue Wave Beaches; explore the Everglades and Seminole Indian heritage; experience world-class cultural events ranging from art exhibitions and live theater to outdoor festivals and concerts such as Madonna: The Reinvention Tour on July 28 at the Office Depot Center in Sunrise; and savor the hottest dining and shopping scene in Florida at places like Las Olas Boulevard and the newly renovated, upscale Galleria mall.

This summer's premier events include Florida Marlins Baseball (April - September), Broadway shows at the Broward Center for the Performing Art, Ocean Festival Dive and Adventure Sports Expo (May 14-16), McDonald's Air & Sea Show (May 1-2), Fiesta! Fort Lauderdale (May 29, June 26, July 24, August 28), July 4th celebrations along the beach, Hollywood Beach Latin Festival (August 15), and the Las Olas Art Fair (Sept. 4-5.)

Following are samples of participating hotels and corresponding nightly rates:

A Little Inn by the Sea; Lauderdale by the Sea; from $89; 954-772-2450; www.alittleinn.com
Best Western Oceanside Inn; Fort Lauderdale; from $69; 954-525-8115; www.bestwestern.com/oceansideinnftlauderdale
Best Western Pelican Beach Resort; Fort Lauderdale; from $109; 954-568-9431; www.pelicanbeach.com
Days Inn Bahia Cabana; Fort Lauderdale; from $75; 954-524-1555; www.bahiacabanaresort.com
Deerfield Buccaneer; Deerfield Beach; from $65; 954-426-4672; www.deerfieldbuccaneer.com
Embassy Suites Hotel; Deerfield Beach; from $109; 954-426-0478; www.embassyflorida.com
Embassy Suites Hotel; Fort Lauderdale; from $129; 954-527-2700; www.embassysuitesftl.com
Holiday Inn Oceanside; Pompano Beach; from $83; 954-781-1300; www.holiday-inn.com/pompanobeachfl
Hyatt Regency Pier 66; Fort Lauderdale; from $139; 954-525-6666; www.pier66.com
Irelands Inn Beach Resort; Fort Lauderdale; from $79; 954-565-6661; www.irelands.com
Lago Mar Resort and Club; Fort Lauderdale; from $140; 954-523-6511; www.lagomar.com
Marina Marriott; Fort Lauderdale; from $129; 954-463-4000 (booking code: XEAA); www.marriottmarina.com
Manta Ray Inn; Hollywood; from $77; 954-921-9666; www.mantarayinn.com
Nina Lee/ Imperial House; Fort Lauderdale; from $49; 954-467-1110
Radisson Bahia Mar; Fort Lauderdale; from $99; 954-764-2233; www.bahiamar.net
Sandy Shores Motel; Hollywood; from $49; 954-923-3750; www.sandyshoreslodging.com
Seville Hotel; Fort Lauderdale; from $49; 954-463-7212; www.sevillehotel.com
Sheraton Yankee Clipper; Fort Lauderdale; from $99; 954-524-5551 (booking code: GFLAUD); www.sheratonclipper.com
Sheraton Yankee Trader; Fort Lauderdale; from $99; 954-467-1111 (booking code: GFLAUD); www.sheratontrader.com
Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa; Hollywood; from $159; 954-602-8603; www.diplomatresort.com
White Sands Inn; Hollywood; from $45; 954-923-1531; www.whitesandsinns.com

For more information about Greater Fort Lauderdale's "Ride Our Waters Free" promotion or to obtain a free copy of the destination's Vacation Planner Guide, contact the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1850 Eller Drive, Suite 303, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Toll-free telephone and immediate fax information as well as reservations for vacation packages are available at 800-22-SUNNY (U.S. and Canada), or visit the Greater Fort Lauderdale website at www.sunny.org

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MIAMI (March 22, 2004) - One- to three-night pre- and post-cruise hotel packages at the luxurious Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers and Westin Long Beach are now available in conjunction with "Fun Ship" departures from New York and Long Beach, Calif.

"New York and Long Beach are popular 'Fun Ship' departure points, as well as exciting vacation destinations unto themselves, and we're delighted to provide our guests with the opportunity to explore all the many wonderful sites and attractions that these two cities have to offer," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

The new land packages can be combined with the following 2004 "Fun Ship" departures:

*New York: Eight-day Caribbean voyages on the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend April 29 - Oct. 14; seven-day Port Canaveral/Orlando and Bahamas sailings on 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle June 12 - Aug. 28; four- and five-day Canada and seven-day "fall foliage" cruises on 2,758-passenger Carnival Victory June 19 - Oct. 2; and a special one-time Bermuda cruise on Carnival Legend April 23.

*Long Beach: Year-round three- and four-day Baja cruises on 2,052-passenger Ecstasy (route to be assumed by 2,052-passenger Paradise Sept. 20); and year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera voyages on 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride.

Located in close proximity to the New York Passenger Ship Terminal, the Sheraton Hotel & Towers is steps away from popular Big Apple tourist attractions such as Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Broadway, and Carnegie Hall. Spanning 50 floors, the property features 1,750 spacious guest rooms, more than two-thirds of which have been recently renovated. Its lobby has been renovated, as well, with design elements evocative of legendary Grand Central Station. The property's newest venue, the Library Bar, is patterned after classic gentlemen's clubs with mahogany paneling, red leather tub chairs, a large mahogany bar and antique hand-knotted Persian rugs.

Located in the heart of downtown Long Beach, the Westin Long Beach Hotel is conveniently located between the Los Angeles and Orange County airports with the Long Beach airport 15 minutes away. The 460-room property features Westin's Heavenly Bed and Baths in every room. Guests can exercise in! the new Westin Workout sponsored by Rebook featuring a poolside view and the latest in fitness equipment. Just minutes away are the renowned Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary, and the new Pike at Rainbow Harbor, which features many waterfront restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options.

Prices for the one- to three-night land stays range from $80 to $465 per person, based on double occupancy and depending on property chosen and length of stay. Carnival is currently accepting reservations for the various hotel packages. For additional information on Carnival's New York or Long Beach departures, or any other "Fun Ship" cruise program, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups) or visit the line's travel agent Internet portal, bookccl.com.

The top priority of Royal Caribbean International is the safety of its guests and employees. Because of this, continuing unrest in Haiti, and the specific recommendations of security consultants, the company has decided to indefinitely suspend its port calls scheduled for Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private, secluded beachfront area on the northern coast of Haiti, which is on the island of Hispaniola. Although this will be disappointing to its guests, the company feels this decision is the most prudent course of action. The company is planning revised itineraries that include a substitute port of call.

Royal Caribbean looks forward to resuming port calls in Labadee in the
very near future.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL - In the world of luxury cruising, few voyages possess the mystique of the World Cruise - and with Radisson Seven Seas' first-ever World Cruise aboard the all-balcony suite Seven Seas Voyager, few world itineraries can be as destination-oriented or as romantically appealing. The 107-night voyage aboard the 700-guest vessel sails west from Los Angeles to the South Pacific on January 5, 2005, spanning the globe to reach 44 ports in 27 nations on five continents.

In circumnavigating the globe, the acclaimed vessel will call in French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Micronesia, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Bermuda before reaching Ft. Lauderdale on April 23.

"The Seven Seas Voyager is built for the extended pleasures and discoveries of world cruising, " said Mark Conroy, president and CEO of Radisson Seven Seas Cruises. "She offers exceptional amenities plus generous privacy and space per guest while taking our 'luxury goes exploring' ideal to its logical conclusion."

World Cruise Can Be Booked Now
Guests who book the entire World Cruise by July 31, will enjoy up to 29% Early Booking Savings. the Seven Seas Voyager features the largest lead-in suites at sea - each with a private balcony, and competitively priced lead-in fares from $43,995 per person, including roundtrip first class air, up to $2,000 per suite shipboard credit, private car transfers in port of embarkation/disembarkation and luggage delivery service to and from home. Also included are twelve special shoreside events. World travelers will be given the royal treatment on a variety of unusual excursions ranging from a Truk Island scuba dive with famed Jean-Michel Cousteau to a dinner among the Pillars of Luxor in Egypt. In addition, exciting one- to four-day overland tour options - including a private jet flight over Antarctica - in some of the most exotic lands on earth are available.

A distinguished roster of Smithsonian Institution lecturers and prominent celebrity guests will offer stimulating talks on a variety of life-enriching topics.

Segments/Shore Side Events/Optional Overland Excursions
Seven individual segments of the World Cruise may be combined. Segment one, an 18-night voyage from Los Angeles to Auckland, departs January 5, 2005; segment two: 14-nights from Auckland to Sydney; segment three: 22 nights from Sydney to Hong Kong; segment four: 12 nights from Hong Kong to Singapore; segment five: 11 nights from Singapore to Dubai; segment six: 16 nights from Dubai to Civitavechhia (Rome); and segment seven: 14 nights from Civitavecchia, across the Atlantic to Bermuda and the Bahamas, arriving in Ft. Lauderdale on April 23.

On the Seven Seas Voyager, luxury goes exploring from the South Pacific and exotic Lands Down Under to Asia, India and Europe, with complimentary shoreside events on each of her seven segments including a "Tamure Welcome at a Sacred Marae" in Nuku Hiva (Marquesas Islands); a "Penguin Parade" in Philip Island (Australia); "Jean-Michel Cousteau Presents" in Truk Island; a "Jazz Brunch on the Reef" in Cairns: an "Overnight in Royal Bangkok"; an "Overnight in Luxor & the Valley of the Kings" in Safaga (Egypt); and the "Oceanographic Museum & Aquarium" in Monte Carlo.

Full World Cruise guests will also be invited to exclusive events in select destinations including an "Edwardian Picnic on the Banks of the Avon" in Christchurch (New Zealand); "Lunch at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club"; a "Reception at the Famed Burj Al Arab" in Dubai; and a "Dinner Among the Pillars of Luxor" in Safaga.

To take their world explorations even farther, World Cruise guests may choose from several pre-bookable, optional overland shore excursions. Select tours will depart the vessel for a few days, rejoining the cruise in another port. Other tours are one day.

Pre-World Cruise Option
Guests who prefer not to fly yet wish to fully circumnavigate the glove may add a 17-night Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles before their world voyage, creating a 124-night roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale journey.

Luxury Goes Exploring
Acclaimed for her all-suite, all-balcony design, the Seven Seas Voyager is ideally suited to world cruising with balcony-suites ranging from 356 to 1,403 square feet of living space including walk-in closets and large marble-appointed bathrooms featuring separate glass shower stalls and full bathtubs.

Guests of the Seven Seas Voyager will enjoy four main dining, open-seating venues including the 110-seat Signatures, directed by Le Cordon Bleu chefs. The Carita Spa combines the art of gentle pampering with renewal and rejuvenation and offers a full menu of spa, beauty and grooming services. The ship houses Club.com, an Internet cafe with eight computers, and a learning center with 21 computers. Suites are equipped with hi-tech interactive TV "Guest Choice Systems" with free movie channels, movies on demand, CD and DVD players (400 DVDs are available onboard for complimentary viewing), email capabilities, the ability to view guest folios and more. Butler service is available in 88 suites of category B and above.

World Cruise Prices
Per person prices from $43,995 for the 107-night World Cruise include Early Booking Savings (if booked by July 31, 2004), first class air from any of 84 North American gateway cities, private car transfers between airport, hotel and pier, baggage pick-up and delivery service from guests' homes, all visas, a Bon Voyage celebration and hotel night at a luxury hotel in Los Angeles, and special shoreside events mentioned above - resulting in exceptional value for a World Cruise. Shipboard gratuities, wine with dinner and complimentary soft drinks throughout the voyage are also included in the World Cruise fare. In addition, Radisson Seven Seas is offering an additional 5 percent savings for past guests of the line. All World Cruise guests will receive up to $2,000 per suite shipboard credit to use as they wish on shore excursions, Carita spa treatments, boutique purchases, etc.

Per person prices for the 124-night roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale cruise are from $48,995. Per person, single segment prices from $3,698 include two-for-one Early Booking Savings, and $100 to $200 per suite shipboard credit. Complimentary economy air is provided for guests of four- to six-segment combinations.

SANTA CLARITA, CA, March 19 -- Princess' newest "Love Boat," Caribbean Princess, was delivered to the cruise line today in Monfalcone, Italy by the ship's builder, Fincantieri Cantieri Navali Italiani. The new 113,000-ton vessel will set sail tomorrow for Ft. Lauderdale where it is scheduled to arrive on April 1. The 3,100-passenger ship, which has been designed specifically for Caribbean cruising, and is the first ship Princess Cruises will base in this destination year-round, will be christened on April 2 by "Love Boat" actress Jill Whelan (who, for nearly a decade, played Captain's Stubing's TV daughter). Whelan will not only become the vessel's godmother, but will be the first christener to also become a bride when she marries fiancé Michael Chaykowsky onboard Caribbean Princess the same evening.

Caribbean Princess will set sail on her inaugural Caribbean cruise on April 3 for a roundtrip voyage to the Western Caribbean. The ship will cruise roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale with an itinerary featuring calls at Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios (or Montego Bay), Cozumel and Princess Cays, Princess' private beach call in the Bahamas. The vessel will then offer alternating Eastern Caribbean itineraries with stops in St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Princess Cays.

The Caribbean Princess will provide a number of unique Caribbean touches, including the outdoor Movies Under the Stars LED screen, a special Cafe Caribe dining venue and a variety of island-flavored entertainment options. The ship also debuts Princess' own in-house Lotus Spa and includes many of the line's trademark touches, such as the alternative Trattoria Sabattini restaurant, three separate dining rooms and show lounges, an Internet cafe, a wedding chapel and four swimming pools.

One of the best-known names in North American cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company. Part of Carnival Corporation & plc, its fleet of 13 ships sail on approximately 150 different itineraries around the globe, calling at more than 260 ports on all seven continents. By 2006 a further two ships will be introduced. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting www.princess.com.

MIAMI, March 17 During a press conference at the Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention, Norwegian Cruise Lines President and Chief Executive Office Colin Veitch made several announcements for the NCL brand.

1) SuperStar Leo will be permanently deployed in the NCL fleet after her initial Alaska season and be renamed Norwegian Spirit.

2) Norwegian Sea will be transferred to the Star Cruises fleet in Spring of 2005 enabling NCLs parent company to go forward with its plans to modify its fleet profile in Asia with relatively modern vessels of medium capacity rather than mega ships.

3) In October 2005, Norwegian Dream will take over Norwegian Seas year round cruises out of Houston sailing Exotic Western Caribbean seven-day cruises calling in Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cancun, Mexico. The company will announce a replacement ship for New Orleans shortly;

4) As NCL continues its fleet renewal program of adding bigger and newer ships, Veitch announced that regretfully the S/S Norway would not return to the North American cruise market. The company continues to evaluate appropriate options for the vessel;

5) NCL will be increasing its deployment in Alaska in 2005 with an additional ship bringing its total to four ships cruising Alaskas Inside Passage. Further details will be announced in the next few weeks.

A full deployment schedule for the NCL and Orient Lines brands will also be announced in the next few weeks.

More details on Norwegian Spirit
On May 15, 2004, Norwegian Spirit assumes Norwegian Skys Alaska program through September 18, 2004. After the Alaska season, Norwegian Spirit will undergo a significant remodeling and refurbishment to further modify her for North American service. Details on Norwegian Spirits refurbishment will be announced soon.

We have been extremely pleased with the welcome SuperStar Leo has received since we first announced she would enter the NCL fleet for the Alaska season, Veitch said. As the slightly smaller sister of Norwegian Star, the ship will be right at home with our family of modern Freestyle Cruising vessels. She is the perfect addition to the NCL fleet.

Norwegian Spirit was built by Meyer Werft in Germany in 1999 and was Star Cruises first newbuild and largest vessel. The ship is 879 feet long and 106 feet wide, slightly smaller than her big sister, Norwegian Star. Norwegian Spirit cruises at a maximum speed of 25 knots. Like Norwegian Star, which begins her first Alaska season in May, Norwegian Spirit offers a wide choice of interconnecting cabins perfect for multi-generational families of all sizes. Staterooms feature rich cherry wood finishing and the 391 balcony staterooms offer a much larger bathroom unit than other ships, containing separate WC, shower, and washstand compartments separated by sliding doors. Sixty percent of cabins are outside staterooms and 66 percent of these have balconies.

Most cabins include a sofa bed or pop-up trundle bed, giving a third lower bed, and many have a fourth, pull-down berth. The ship also offers a large number of cabins (including suites and junior-suites) that can be combined to create two-, three- or four-bedroom areas suitable for small and large families.

In keeping with Freestyle Cruising where guests can dine wherever, whenever, and with whomever they wish, Norwegian Spirit features the flexibility of eight restaurants including two main restaurants; NCLs signature restaurant Le Bistro; a traditional steakhouse; La Trattoria, an Italian café; a buffet restaurant featuring action stations; and a Japanese/Thai/Chinese Asian complex featuring an a la carte section, a sushi bar, and a teppanyaki room.

Norwegian Spirit features world-class amenities including the Moulin Rouge, a 900-seat, two level theatre; the Roman Spa and Fitness Center; Buccaneers Wet n Wild kids center and a 78-seat cinema. Norwegian Spirit features nine bars and lounges, including a Bier Garten that offers a selection of beers from around the world; a champagne bar called Champagne Charlies; Henrys Pub, a traditional English pub; a karaoke lounge with private karaoke rooms; the Celebrity Disco offering cocktails, entertainment and dancing; and the Observatory, with sweeping ocean views, a dance floor and live entertainment.

For reservations and more information, contact a travel agent or NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 327-7030; in Miami-Dade County, Florida, (305) 436-0866; visit NCLs web site at www.ncl.com

SEATTLE, March 15 -- Holland America Line announced today that, as part of its Signature of Excellence initiative, the leader in premium cruising will shake things up across its entire fleet of five-star ships with a new mixology program designed to provide guests with innovative cocktail options from around the world, as well as carefully crafted, fresh interpretations of classic cocktail favorites.

Holland America Line worked together with one of the country's leading mixologists to develop innovative, delicious recipes for an entire line of signature cocktails. The result of this work is Holland America Line's enhanced Signature Cocktail Program. Combined with the cruise line's friendly, attentive service, the program offers guests a comprehensive bar menu made up of four distinct categories, including Tropical Specialties, Citrus Signatures, Sophisticated Retro Favorites and Poolside Delights.

"We've created a groundbreaking mixology program that delivers our guests a wide selection of fantastic cocktails that are as unique as the Holland America Line cruise experience," said David A. Giersdorf, Holland America Line's executive vice president of marketing and sales. "The program is yet another example of how the Signature of Excellence initiative, an unparalleled investment to further enhance our products and services, is driving us to examine every facet of the cruise experience to ensure that the guest's time aboard our ship is extraordinary and surpasses their expectations."

Freshest Ingredients at the Heart of the Program
At the core of the program is the philosophy that fresh, premium juices and ingredients define the unique taste of Holland America Line's cocktails. Guests can watch from the bar as ripe citrus fruits are hand-pressed to produce a flavorful, fresh margarita, mojito or lemon drop. They will notice the difference that comes from Holland America Line's fresh sweet and sour mix, made from scratch every day. Combining the freshest ingredients with smooth, but intensely-flavored premium liquors creates a vivid flavor that makes each drink on the new bar menu something to experience.

Refreshing Tropical Specialties
A popular new selection on the Tropical Specialties menu is the sublimely refreshing Cuban Mojito. Holland America Line delivers its own take on this hand-shaken Cuban cocktail made with Barcardi Light Rum, fresh mint, fresh juices and soda. Guests can try the classic version, as well as six other flavors including mango, guava, banana and raspberry. In addition, the Tropical Specialties menu offers guests a choice of eight varieties of fresh, hand-shaken Margaritas, five varieties of the decadent Epic Lido Spiced Daquiri and the exotic Tropical Cable Car, unique twist on a popular Bay Area cocktail.

Unique Citrus Signatures
Guests who are interested in new experiences during their cruise need to look no further than the Citrus Signatures menu. One of the more unique signature cocktails is the cool and refreshing Cucumber Lime Smash. The drink is made with premium vodka or gin, shaken briskly with fresh lime and cucumber, served up. Other Lime Smashes to choose from include a Mint Lime Smash and a Double Lime Smash for the purist. For guests with a taste for something more sophisticated, there are eight different Sexy Citrus Cosmopolitans. Guests can choose if they're in the mood for a classic Cosmopolitan or a special flavor such as fresh grapefruit, candy apple or apricot. In addition, there are six varieties of the new Champagne Dreams cocktail. This popular cocktail is vigorously shaken with premium vodka, fresh orange juice, a choice of tropical flavors and topped off with champagne. The Citrus Signatures menu also includes four recipes for Fresh Lemon Drops and the Ultimate Raspberry Lemonade.

Sophisticated Retro Favorites
The traditionalist can make a choice from the rich selection of Sophisticated Retro Favorites, including two different recipes for a New Fashioned -- Bermuda or Kentucky Style. The Bermuda Style offers a tropical twist on a true America classic. It begins with hand-pressed grapefruit and cherries married with Goslings Black Seal rum, sugar and bitters. The Kentucky Style is made from the ultra-premium Bookers Single Barrel Bourbon. The Sophisticated Retro Favorites menu also includes an icy cold Tanqueray 0010 martini, a luxurious South Seas Aviation, a chilled Gibson or a tangy Negroni Nuevo.

Sunny Poolside Delights Guests looking for something to enjoy while sitting in the warm sun will find inspiration in the Poolside Delights menu. The Sunsicle delivers a taste of sunshine in a glass. The drink is made from vanilla rum with fresh orange, lemon and soda. Guests can also enjoy a seductive Strawberry Banana Ecstasy, a new twist on the Seabreeze, an orange-laced Pool Side Car, the Blueberry Lemon Decadence and the standard favorite Classic Pina Colada. Of course, Holland America Line's staff will craft any traditional favorite cocktail and will cater to a guest's personal specifications for any drink.

Friendly, Attentive Service
Creative beverages are just the beginning. Another factor critical to the success of the new mixology program is Holland America Line's guest-oriented staff with a commitment to excellent service. To that end, key dining and bar staff on each ship will undergo comprehensive training. The program, initially being implemented on Holland America Line's Vista-class ships, will be rolled out on all of Holland America Line's ships by the end of 2004.

Holland America Line's Tanqueray 0010 (Double O Ten)

About Signature of Excellence
As the premium cruise leader, Holland America Line is investing $225 million in the Signature of Excellence initiative to provide unparalleled product and service enhancements to its fleet of five-star ships. Signature of Excellence will build on Holland America Line's renowned tradition of excellence by significantly raising the standard in premium cruising. The comprehensive enhancements will focus on five areas central to the Holland America Line guest experience: spacious, elegant ships and accommodations; sophisticated five-star dining; gracious, unobtrusive service; extensive enrichment programs and activities; and compelling worldwide itineraries. Enhancements, and in some cases construction build-outs, have been started and are expected to be completed by the end of 2006.

LOS ANGELES, March 18 -- Excursions to Prague and Lapland, kayaking in Copenhagen, high-speed sailing in Rostock and exclusive musical performances at St. Petersburg's Hermitage are among the brand new active and enriching shore programs Crystal Cruises is offering on its six Baltic cruises aboard the award-winning Crystal Symphony this summer. More than two dozen new "Crystal Adventures" have been added for the 2004 May-August season, including:

* a first-ever excursion to the Czech Republic city of Prague by chartered aircraft during the call in Warnemunde, Germany -- making Crystal the only cruise line to offer this adventure in 2004;

* new soft adventure options, such as kayaking through the canals of Copenhagen, biking in Stockholm's Djurgarden, high-speed sailing in Rostock, and a variety of specially designed walking tours ideal for intimate exploration of some of the Baltic's best destinations; and,

* a new day trip to Lapland to tread the Arctic Circle, departing by air from Helsinki.

"The Baltic's depth of beauty and the richness of each individual port make this an ideal repeat destination," says John Stoll, Crystal Cruises' director, land programs. "The tour choices in each destination are staggering -- whether one is seeking cultural enrichment or more active pursuits. When creating our shore programs, our team is guided by the increasing interest of our sophisticated guests to collect experiences that are unique, exclusive and personally enriching."

In St. Petersburg alone, the luxury line is offering 17 different excursions during Crystal Symphony's two- or three-day port call, including an overland tour to Moscow and the Kremlin. Other highlights of St. Petersburg include the following new tours:

* an exclusive evening of classical music and tour of Western European art at the legendary Hermitage;

* a limited-availability tour of the Hermitage's newly restored Gold Room and architecturally magnificent Winter Palace, normally closed to the public; and,

* an evening performance of Russian ballet or opera at the Mariinsky Theatre, formerly known as the Kirov, where Nureyev, Baryshnikov and other legendary Russian artists launched their careers; and,

* Jewish Highlights of St. Petersburg with visits to the Great Choral Synagogue and the Ethnography Museum, chronicling the way of life and culture of the people of Russia.

Depending on the departure date (May 23, June 3 and 26, July 19 and 31, and August 12) Crystal Symphony sets to sea from London's Port of Dover, Stockholm, Copenhagen or Rouen on 11- and 12-day journeys visiting Warnemunde, Germany; Visby and Goteborg, Sweden; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland; Tallinn, Estonia; Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger, Norway; Antwerp, Belgium; Edinburgh, Scotland; and Honfleur, France.

Northern Europe in the summertime welcomes visitors with long summer days and energetic cultures of people genuinely happy to share the best of their countries. From the Annual Tall Ships Regatta in Antwerp and Stavangar, to the Military Tattoo in Edinburgh, Crystal's team of shore experts has created its most diverse collection of Baltic excursions to date, including:

* hot air ballooning over Stockholm;

* an exclusive evening champagne reception at the Imperial Russian Court;

* a visit to a country home in the town of Sipoo just outside of Helsinki provides an intimate portrait of Finnish traditions;

* an exploration of Estonian artists' studios in Tallin's old town;

* a journey to Berlin by chartered train from Warnemunde to tour the new Holocaust Memorial, the Jewish Museum, Brandenburg Gate and the futuristic Potsdamer Platz; and,

* a culinary adventure highlighting the flavors of Norwegian cuisine with a cooking demonstration and tasting at Oslo's acclaimed Holmenkollen restaurant.

Depending on itinerary selected, per person, double occupancy fares begin at $3,695. Pre- and post-cruise hotel stays are available at The Landmark London, the Copenhagen Marriott, The Grand Hotel in Stockholm, and the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome or Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris.

At 50,000-tons and carrying only 940 guests, the six-star Crystal Symphony will complete a $12 million refurbishment during its scheduled April drydock in Lisbon, maintaining its reputation as one of the most luxurious and contemporary vessels cruising the world. Its unique size in the luxury market allows for smooth sailing and a wide range of innovative facilities, generous amenities and elegant accommodations. The floating resort is home to grand lounges, a lavish spa outfitted in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, extensive exercise facilities, complimentary golf, yoga and Pilates instruction, the only Caesars Palace at Sea Casino afloat, and the innovative Creative Learning Institute showcasing progressive curriculums in music through Yamaha, language through Berlitz, and wellness through The Cleveland Clinic, as well as other prestigious alliances. The spacious ship features expansive decks, two pools, gourmet dining including Asian and Italian specialty restaurants, and exquisitely appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs.

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure, please call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com