News from the world of cruising ~
April 23-29, 2001
Back to Cruise News Weekly Index & Archive
Second in Millennium-Class Series Features Conservatory, SS United States Artifacts
MIAMI, April 28 - Celebrity Cruises' new Infinity, the newest addition to the premium cruise line's award-winning fleet, today sails into San Diego, prior to tomorrow's call on Los Angeles, where the 1,950-guest Infinity will hold formal inaugural ceremonies.
"Infinity continues Celebrity Cruises' tradition of presenting sleek, sophisticated ships that provide our guests with extraordinary cruise vacation experiences,'' said Celebrity Cruises President Rick Sasso. "Like her sister ship, Millennium, which launched last year, Infinity presents a variety of new and distinctive features.''
Among the compelling elements of Celebrity's Infinity is the industry's first full conservatory at sea, created for Celebrity Cruises by prominent Paris-based floral designer Emilio Robba.
"The Infinity Conservatory is a secret garden of the seas,'' said Robba. "It was designed to emphasize Infinity's magnificent surroundings and to present nature in a harmonious blend of sea and sky.''
Another hallmark of Celebrity's Infinity is an exclusive, historic maritime treasure. Accenting the interior of the ship's SS United States specialty restaurant are actual glass panels from the SS United States, which launched in 1952 and gained fame for clocking the fastest transatlantic crossing from New York.
The SS United States restaurant is Celebrity's second specialty restaurant to recapture the atmosphere of its namesake. Celebrity's Millennium, the first in Celebrity's Millennium-class fleet, features "The Olympic'' restaurant, the design of which stemmed from a rare collection of wood paneling that once graced the first-class dining room onboard the glamorous R.M.S. Olympic.
"Infinity's SS United States restaurant presents another enticing alternative dining environment for guests seeking a casually elegant dining venue,'' said Sasso. "Under the direction of world-renowned Master Chef Michel Roux, the SS United States restaurant reinforces the benchmark we set with Millennium, in offering the only tableside cooking, carving and flambé at sea, and a dine-in wine cellar featuring more than 175 labels from around the world.''
Also unique to Infinity's specialty restaurant is Chef Roux's recreation of an entree first served in the dining room onboard the original SS United States during the 1950s: Roast Long Island Duckling a l'Orange Stuffed with Fruit, one of a host of intriguing selections of entrees, appetizers, wines and desserts selected exclusively for Infinity's SS United States restaurant by Chef Roux.
Additional Infinity Highlights
Maintaining Celebrity Cruises' trendsetting tradition, Infinity offers a number of new features and amenities, in addition to the Conservatory and the SS United States Restaurant:
- Infinity's 25,000-sq.-ft. AquaSpa(SM) is the first ocean-going spa operated by the elite Elemis Ltd. Infinity's AquaSpa will offer Elemis' "Sensory Heaven'' experience, a fusion of exotic Eastern and Western spa therapies designed to appeal to every sense.
- Infinity offers 80 percent ocean-view staterooms, 74 percent with verandas.
- Infinity is the second Celebrity ship to run on environmentally sensitive, quiet and smokeless gas-turbine engines.
- The ship presents the industry's largest penthouse suites, encompassing nearly 3,000 square feet with veranda.
- "The Emporium,'' Infinity's 14,000-square-foot shopping area, offers elegant and trendy designer labels including Swarovski, H. Stern, Donna Karan, and La Perla, in addition to shops featuring Michel Roux gourmet delicacies and Cova Cafe Milano confections.
- Infinity presents exterior, glass-enclosed elevators, offering guests captivating, panoramic ocean views as they move from deck to deck.
- The ship presents "Connect@Sea,'' Celebrity Cruises' first dial-up Internet service provider to be available in all staterooms and suites for guests who bring their own computers.
- The vessel features an 18-workstation Internet cafe, "Online@CelebrityCruises,'' accessible to all guests, and flat screen PCs and printers in all suites.
- Infinity presents a music library, "Notes,'' offering thousands of selections of digital recordings and individual listening stations.
- Extensive options for the physically challenged are available onboard Infinity, with accommodations in a variety of categories, including suites.
In addition to its new public spaces, Infinity also expands upon Celebrity Cruises' highly acclaimed, fleetwide signature elements, including museum- quality contemporary art collections, Cova Cafe Milano, Michael's Club cigar lounge, and Martini and Champagne Bars serving caviar and other delicacies.
Itineraries for Celebrity's Infinity
Celebrity's Infinity embarked on its maiden voyage, a 14-night trans-canal cruise departing Fort Lauderdale on March 3, concluding in San Diego, California. The ship then sailed Celebrity Cruises' first season in America's true island paradise, Hawaii, with a series of 10- and 11-night voyages to and from Honolulu and Ensenada.
Infinity begins its Alaskan season with a 10-night Northbound Pacific Coast cruise on May 1, from San Francisco to Vancouver, British Columbia, then presents a series of seven-night Inside Passage cruises in Alaska, with departures from Vancouver every Friday from May 11 through September 14.
On September 21, Infinity sails a special nine-night Southbound Pacific Coast cruise from Vancouver to San Diego, California, followed by a 13-night Eastbound Trans-canal itinerary departing San Diego on September 30, concluding in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Infinity begins its first Caribbean season on October 13, 2001, sailing seven-night Southern Caribbean cruises departing round-trip from San Juan every Saturday through April 20, 2002.
Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry and has the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Celebrity's eighth ship, Summit, launches this Fall, and an additional Millennium-class ship will make its maiden voyage in 2002. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
Olympic Explorer Delivery Delayed
PIRAEUS, Greece, April 27 - Royal Olympic Cruise Lines Inc. has requested that a number of improvements be made to the Company's newbuilding, Olympic Explorer, prior to taking final delivery of the cruise ship, which was originally scheduled for today.
The Company is making adjustments to the Olympic Explorer's early voyages and is in contact with its clients and agents informing them of possible variations in schedules and alternative options.
George Stathopoulos, Acting CEO of Royal Olympic Cruises stated, "Our aim is to make sure that the vessel we take delivery of, and put into service for our guests, is of the highest standards of comfort and efficiency."
Royal Olympic Cruise Lines is the largest cruise operator in the Eastern Mediterranean, owning and operating a fleet of eight overnight cruise ships.
Back to the top of the news list
NEW CARNIVAL SPIRIT RECEIVES
'GREEN STAR' ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGNATION
MIAMI (04/27/01) - Carnival Cruise Lines' new 88,500-ton Carnival
Spirit has received the "Green Star" designation, awarded to ships that meet the environmental standards established by the Registro Italiano Navale Group (RINA), an Italian ship classification and management system certification society.
The Carnival Spirit, set to debut April 29, 2001, was awarded the "Green Star" honor for meeting the stringent environmental guidelines of RINA's two voluntary class notations, Clean Sea and Clean Air. The notations focus on the control and prevention of sea and air pollution and also comply with the regulations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
According to Franco Porcellacchia, RINA's international marine manager, "RINA surveyors were on-site at Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland, where the Carnival Spirit was built, throughout the shipbuilding process to ensure the vessel fully complied with the stringent standards required to earn the Green Star designation."
The Carnival Spirit is only the second vessel ever to be awarded RINA's Green Star designation. The Costa Atlantica of Carnival's sister company, Costa Cruises, received the designation when it entered service in July 2000.
"RINA's Design for Environment (DfE) designation 'Green Star' is one of the most comprehensive programs available in the maritime industry and entails a significant capital investment as well as an investment in our on-board human resources," said Jim Walsh, Carnival's vice president of environmental, health and safety.
According to Walsh, two important features of the Carnival Spirit are the segregation of bilge spaces, which further minimizes the possibility of tainting water with oil, and the isolation of fuel tanks with "double hull-like" protection, reducing the possibility of rupture in the event of a grounding.
"Carnival's commitment to the environment is a critical component of the line's business plan," Walsh said. "This isn't just a social issue but is also a fundamental factor to the continued success of our business." Exemplifying Carnival's commitment to the environment, the Carnival Spirit is the first cruise ship to feature Wartsila's new "smokeless" enviroengine, which reduces visible emissions and is expected to enhance fuel efficiency. One of the ship's six engines presently features this technology, and a second engine will be modified and converted with this system at a later date. The line's parent company, Carnival Corporation, has a partnership with Wartsila, a Finnish engine manufacturer, to develop the enviroengine for its ships. All six engines meet MARPOL's rules for nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions that will become a requirement in the future. Other features aboard the ship will include new wastewater treatment, food waste processing systems and environmentally friendly refrigerants, paints and other products.
The Carnival Spirit also adheres to the line's comprehensive fleetwide environmental program, which includes a waste-management plan, in which solid waste is processed and incinerated on board or sent to a shoreside facility for treatment, recycling or disposal. The line is already in full compliance with international and domestic environmental laws and regulations, including those of the IMO and the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations.
The Carnival Spirit is scheduled to debut April 29 with a 16-day Panama Canal cruise from Miami to Los Angeles, followed by a three-night voyage from San Francisco to Vancouver departing May 20, a series of week-long Glacier Bay and Glacier Route Alaska cruises throughout the summer, two 12-day Hawaii cruises, and a 14-day Panama Canal sailing from San Diego to Miami departing Oct. 20. From Miami, Carnival Spirit is slated to operate a unique eight-day program to "exotic" Caribbean ports of call throughout the winter, commencing Nov. 3.
RINA is part of the Registro Italiano Navale Group and is a Genoa-based classification society, which was formed in 1861. It was a founding member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) and has particular expertise in passenger vessels and fast craft.
Back to the top of the news list
Queen Elizabeth 2 Deployed to Rescue Injured Fisherman
Liner Diverts Course to Aid Fishing Vessel With Medical Emergency
MIAMI, April 27 - The Cunard liner, Queen Elizabeth 2, was requested by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Wednesday to evacuate an injured crew member on board the Spanish fishing boat Siempre Juan Luis. The crew member suffered severe facial injuries and required immediate medical attention. Despite being 150 miles away from Siempre Juan Luis in the Atlantic, QE2 was the closest vessel in the area.
Captain Paul Wright received the call in the afternoon, and he immediately turned the grand liner around from her east-bound course to make the five-hour journey to Siempre Juan Luis. Upon arrival in the early evening, a rescue boat was launched from QE2 carrying six crew members who safely retrieved the wounded man despite difficult seas and potentially dangerous conditions. Currently, QE2 is back on course and will arrive at Ponta Delgada, Azores, on April 28 where the man will be off-loaded for additional medical attention.
"Throughout history Cunard liners have been called to aid vessels in distressed situations, and we are always willing to help without hesitation," said Deborah Natansohn, Sr. Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Cunard Line. "The waters of the Atlantic are familiar territory, and we are fortunate that QE2 was close enough to assist."
With fully equipped Medical Facilities, two full-time doctors and three nurses, QE2 was prepared for the injuries suffered by the fishing boat crew member. Currently under intensive care supervision, he is expected to make a full recovery.
In a thank you message to Captain Wright and his crew, the Director of the Spanish Marine Safety and Rescue Agency wrote: "It has been great to see that the traditional seamanship and spirit of mutual help among seafarers still exists and is shown on board a prestigious vessel such as yours."
Siempre Juan Luis, based out of Vigo, Spain, was on a routine fishing trip when the injury occurred. The vessel will continue in the Atlantic with the remaining eight crew members and function as usual until her planned return at the end of May.
QE2 is the only liner still operating scheduled transatlantic service, and sails regularly on six- and seven-day voyages between New York and Southampton, England. She departed New York on April 20 to begin her transatlantic season, which runs throughout October.
Back to the top of the news list
Royal Caribbean International Signs Agreement
With Seattle's Best Coffee
MIAMI FL, April 27 - Royal Caribbean International announced today that products from top specialty coffee retailer, Seattle's Best Coffee, will be available throughout the fleet. Rolled out last month on Radiance of the Seas, the program will expand to Voyager of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas in 90 days, with the remainder of the fleet by year-end. Seattle's Best Coffee's drip coffee and espresso products will be available in all dining rooms and bars, and new "cafe'' areas will be created on each ship, such as the Books, Books and Coffee bookstore/coffee shop on Radiance of the Seas.
"We select partners that demonstrate the same commitment to excellence that our brand represents,'' said Jack Williams, president, Royal Caribbean International. "The high quality products of Seattle's Best Coffee are welcome additions to our onboard dining and beverage experience.''
Elements of the program will include an expanded espresso menu, with hot-weather thirst-quenchers, Cafe Frio and Jet Tea, a proprietary specialty coffee/alcohol drink menu, in-cabin promotions and a home delivery program.
"This is a great business move for our food service division,'' said Dave Pellegrini, vice president, Foodservice Sales. "Royal Caribbean International offers a superior cruise experience to their guests, and Seattle's Best Coffee is pleased to enhance it further by serving its specialty coffee onboard. It's an ideal move to pair top quality coffee with the cruise line that received top rankings from Conde Nast Traveler.''
Future plans include a multi-tiered training program with Seattle-based training at Seattle Coffee Company's "Coffee University,'' a Miami-based shoreside train-the-trainer program, shipboard training, semi-annual shipboard training, and selective co-branded promotions.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 14 ships in service, and six more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please call your travel professional.
Back to the top of the news list
New Facilities Highlight Vancouver's Canada Place
VANCOUVER, April 26 - New cruise ships and new facilities for passengers at Canada Place highlight the start of this year's cruise season at Port Vancouver with the arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Wind on Monday, April 30. Port Vancouver welcomes seven new ships to its waters this year, five of which are newly built and represent nearly $2.6 billion (Cdn.) in investments.
"Collectively these investments by the cruise lines help to reaffirm Vancouver's status as 'homeport' for the Vancouver-Alaska cruise. Coupled with our own $89 million to build a new berth by 2003 and new facilities at Canada Place, these industry investments show the Vancouver-Alaska cruise is well- positioned for future growth in this expanding sector," said Gordon Houston, VPA President and CEO.
"The cruise sector has grown to become a vital part of the B.C. economy, contributing annually $508 million. Each ship that passes through our waters leaves $1.5 million in economic benefits," said David Stowe, Chairman, VPA. "With this year's new facilities and a new berth in 2003, we will continue to uphold Port Vancouver's international reputation for outstanding facilities and service that cruise lines and passengers enjoy year after year."
Brand new are Holland America's Zaandam with a passenger capacity of 1,440, Royal Caribbean Cruises' Radiance of the Seas with a passenger capacity of 2,100, Celebrity Cruises' Infinity with a passenger capacity of 1,950, Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Spirit with a passenger capacity of 2,124, and Radisson Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Mariner with a passenger capacity of 700. New to Port Vancouver are Hapag Lloyd's Bremen with a passenger capacity of 164 and Cruise West's Spirit of Oceanus with a passenger capacity of 114.
In total, 26 vessels from 13 cruise lines will make 328 sailings this year. While the number of sailings this year is down slightly from last year's 336 sailings, the projected number of revenue passengers is expected to remain constant.
Canada Place is currently undergoing construction at a cost of $89 million for facilities and infrastructure. Construction on Canada Place began in March 2000. When finished, Canada Place will have an increased passenger- level area, an expanded baggage loading and unloading area increased from 133,000 sq. ft. to 189,000 sq. ft., as well as enhanced truck, bus and taxi access increased from 63,000 to 100,000 sq. ft. When the work is completed, Canada Place will be home to three berths: one at 1,600 feet, a second at 1,070 feet and a third at 900 feet.
Port Vancouver is "homeport" to the Vancouver-Alaska cruise. During the 2000 cruise season, Port Vancouver welcomed 1,053,989 revenue passengers, an increase of 11 per cent over 1999's numbers. Last year was the 18th year of consecutive growth for cruise.
Back by popular demand this year is the three- to four-day Pacific Northwest "pocket cruise" between Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle, which takes place this year on Royal Caribbean International's brand new ship, Radiance of the Seas. This unique, shorter cruise allows travelers a chance to sample a different itinerary. The pocket cruise has also grown cruise business over the shoulder months of May, September and October.
Port Vancouver is popular for cruise customers because it offers shorter sailing time to Alaska and provides passengers with the flexibility of a full range of round-trip or one-way voyages. Port Vancouver has two modern cruise ship terminals: Canada Place, currently with two operational berths, and Ballantyne Pier, also with two berths.
Following is this year's roster for Vancouver-Alaska cruises:
Princess Cruises is deploying five vessels in Alaska this year: the Dawn, Ocean, Regal, Sea and Sun Princess. A fleet of six vessels headlines Holland America's rotation including the Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam and Westerdam and Zaandam.
Royal Caribbean International is bringing back its Vision of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas and introduces its Radiance of the Seas. RCI's partner Celebrity introduces the Infinity this year as well as bringing back the Mercury.
Crystal Cruises' Crystal Harmony returns this season while Carnival debuts its Carnival Spirit. Norwegian Cruise Lines' service includes two vessels, the Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Wind.
World Explorer's Universe Explorer will be returning this year as does Mitsui OSK Lines' Nippon Maru. Hapag Lloyd introduces its Bremen while NYK introduces its Asuka. Radisson Seven Seas' Seven Seas Mariner makes its inaugural voyage to Vancouver this season while Cruise West introduces its Spirit of Oceanus.
Back to the top of the news list
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD. CONDUCTS FOURTH ANNUAL VOLUNTEER DAY SATURDAY -- PROJECTS IN FLORIDA, KANSAS, NEW YORK, CALIFORNIA, HAWAII, ALASKA, MEXICO, AND THE CARIBBEAN
MIAMI - April 27, 2001 - More than 1,500 employees, family members and
friends of Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises will be
repainting, replanting, and refurbishing tomorrow in communities from Puerto
Rico to Florida to Kansas to Alaska, in the largest annual community
service event held by a single Florida company.
For the fourth year, the volunteers will spend a day off donating their
time and energy to one of 36 non-profit organizations in the U.S., Mexico
and the Caribbean. Their efforts are part of the company's annual G.I.V.E.
corporate volunteer day. G.I.V.E. stands for "Get Involved Volunteer
Everywhere" and is part of the global cruise company's outreach efforts in
areas where they operate.
The employees will spend their Saturday assisting non-profit organizations
that focus on helping children and families in need, improving education,
and conserving our environment. Their activities will be as diverse as:
* Replanting native vegetation at Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne
in South Florida.
* Planting, landscaping and repairing playground equipment at the Ritchie
Family Center in Wichita, Kansas.
* Escorting children from Girls and Boys Town in New York City for a tour
and lunch onboard the Celebrity Cruises ship Zenith, in New York harbor.
* Refurbishing, painting and landscaping facilities at Rebecca's House,
which assists elderly homeless people in Nassau, Bahamas.
"I am very happy that we can assist so many different people through the
generosity being shown by our employees," said Richard D. Fain, chairman
and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "This year,
our G.I.V.E. Day activities expand far beyond South Florida. I thank our
employees and their families and friends for volunteering their time and
energy to the communities in which we live and work."
The cruise company's employees were given the opportunity to perform their volunteer work for one of 36 non-profit organizations. (A list of the 36 organizations and their locations is attached.) Twenty-three of the non-profits are in South Florida; three are in Wichita, Kansas, where the company maintains a reservations center; and 10 others are being assisted in New York City; Anchorage; Kalua Kona, Hawaii; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico; and Nassau and Coco Cay, Bahamas.
This year's G.I.V.E. Day is being conducted in conjunction with the United
Nations' International Year of Volunteers, being observed during 2001. The
International Year of Volunteers is a U.N. initiative to highlight the
achievements of millions of volunteers worldwide and to encourage more
people globally to engage in volunteer activity.
Locally, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises coordinate
G.I.V.E. Day activities with the help of Hands On Miami. The volunteer
organization was created in 1993 to provide a user-friendly approach to
community service. Hands On Miami creates flexibly-scheduled, meaningful
direct-service volunteer opportunities in partnership with schools, social
service and environmental organizations and businesses.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that
operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal
Celebrity Tours. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com and www.celebritycruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
Ports of Call Inspire the Senses - and Crystal's 2002 Theme Cruises: Luxury Line Expands Offerings With Asian Art & Literature and Murder Mystery
LOS ANGELES, April 27 - Inspired by its varied ports of call and the interests of its discerning guests, Crystal Cruises has developed its 2002 Theme Cruise roster, featuring star entertainment, seminars by renowned experts, and a myriad of musical styles and performances. The luxury line is set to debut two new topics next year: Asian Art & Literature in conjunction with a new Japan and China itinerary and an interactive Murder Mystery. Additional themes featured aboard the Six-Star rated Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony include: Crystal Wine & Food Festival, Film Festival, Classical Music, Popular Music, Jazz & Blues, Big Band, and Yoga, Health & Fitness.
Crystal's 2002 Theme Cruises -- 22 in all -- range from 8 to 34 days in the Pacific, South America, Australia, Asia, Mexico, the Panama Canal/Caribbean, Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada.
"Our collection of Theme Cruises is really an expansion of the Crystal cruise experience, from fine food and wine to onboard enrichment designed to stimulate, challenge and entertain. And, as we do on cruises even without a designated theme, we look to draw the connection to the geography and culture of each destination and reflect today's trends," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing.
Asian Art & Literature will capitalize on the region's masterpieces from early periods of Asian culture and great empires to today. A group of actors will create an interactive Murder Mystery experience on the other new theme for 2002.
Crystal's theme sailings debuted in 1995 with the Crystal Wine & Food Festival. The popular series -- for travelers and visiting chefs alike -- brings aboard celebrity chefs and wine experts from around the globe for cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and gala dinners to personally share their talents and culinary tips with guests.
Musical themes include Big Band orchestras and guest vocalists who perform their hits for nightly dancing, tea dances and other musical sets; Classical Music with guest artists; the Popular Music of the '70s spices it up with a headlining performer from the era, a disco dress-up night and dance competition; and a Jazz & Blues cruise brings a soulful ensemble of America's top jazz talent aboard a cruise that concludes in the blues capital of New Orleans.
Saluting American motion pictures and the stars of the silver screen, Crystal Cruises Film Festival entertains those who appreciate the art of filmmaking on a Trans-Atlantic cruise returning to the U.S.
Crystal Cruises' Yoga, Health & Fitness series aims to recharge and revitalize vacationers with classes, invigorating instructors, best-selling authors and motivating lecturers.
For the fifth consecutive year, Crystal Cruises was named best large-ship cruise line in the 2000 readers' survey conducted by Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines.
Each at 50,000 tons and carrying only 940 guests, Crystal Cruises' first class ships feature expansive decks, a wide variety of spacious lounges for acclaimed, Broadway-style shows, gourmet dining in the Crystal Dining Room and in Asian and Italian specialty restaurants, including "Valentino at Prego" selections from the award-winning restaurant (Santa Monica and Las Vegas), full-service fitness facilities, a lavish spa, pool, outdoor whirlpools, the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino 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 web site at http://www.crystalcruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI, April 26 - Cunard Line has introduced two-for-one specials on six- and seven-day transatlantic crossings aboard its legendary liner Queen Elizabeth 2. The fares are valid for all transatlantic crossings from May through December between New York and Southampton, England, and include one-way airfare between London and 120 gateway cities in North America.
"Queen Elizabeth 2 is the embodiment of the classic, luxury travel experience, and she enables travelers to recapture the romance of crossing on a majestic liner,'' said Deborah Natansohn, Sr. Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Cunard Line. "We know that for many people a transatlantic voyage on QE2 is the dream of a lifetime, and perhaps now they'll be able to make their dream come true.''
The two-for-one fare is valid for outside double and single Caronia and Mauretania Grade staterooms, so guests who take advantage of the savings can enjoy an ocean view while relaxing in their stateroom. The special, which is not combinable with other promotional savings programs, is available in selected states and may vary on sailing date.
In addition to this exclusive fare, QE2 offers much more than a glamorous way to traverse the Atlantic. Often called a "City at Sea,'' guests on-board every crossing have the chance to enrich their mind and enhance their spirit with Cunard's prestigious lecture program and array of on board activities. Not only can guests attend lectures by ambassadors, authors, historians and oceanographers, but they also can partake in computer, bridge, art and dance lessons, sporting activities and drama classes.
Broadway Bound's new show, "Can't Stop the Music,'' celebrates the best of New York's Broadway and London's West End, and top entertainers from around the globe take to the stage in the Grand Lounge. Additionally, every QE2 crossing is highlighted with a special theme, including: "Great Authors- Literary Festival,'' "Chef's Palate,'' "13th Annual Big Bands at Sea,'' "Make 'Em Laugh,'' "Out of Africa'' and "Dance, Dance, Dance.''
QE2's unique facets on board include Harrods, the first luxury department store to open at sea; a nursery with proper English nannies; a garage for automobiles and motorcycles; the only dog, cat and bird kennel at sea -- complete with a proper lamppost; a florist; and one of the most extensive libraries afloat.
For more information or to reserve a voyage, contact a professional travel agent, call Cunard at 1-800-7-CUNARD or visit the website www.cunard.com.
Cunard Line, one of the world's most recognized brand names with a classic British heritage, has been in the business of providing luxury ocean travel for more than 160 years. The Cunard fleet includes famed Queen Elizabeth 2 and Caronia.
Back to the top of the news list
LONDON, April 26 - P&O Princess Cruises, the world's third largest cruise operator, reported on Thursday a widely expected slump in first quarter pre-tax profits, with earnings partly dented by lower cruise prices.
The group, whose ships featured on TV drama "The Love Boat'', said pre-tax profits for the first quarter ending March 2001 fell 64 percent from last year to $18.9 million.
Basic earnings per share for the quarter fell to 2.6 cents from 6.6 cents a year ago.
Cruise operators such as P&O Princess, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean have all felt the effects of the U.S. economic slowdown on pricing, leading to lower earnings.
P&O Princess Cruises added that like-for-like net revenue yields were six percent lower. It also forecast an overall decline in yields of two to three percent for 2001.
"In North America, the pricing environment remains competitive, but nonetheless we expect to increase earnings for the year and continue to earn returns above our cost of capital,'' P&O Princess said in a statement.
P&O Princess Cruises
Results For the quarter ended 31 March 2001
Key points for the quarter
LONDON - April 26, 2001 - Trading conditions significantly better in Q1 2001 than in Q4 2000
-- Earnings per share/ADS in line with expectations at 2.6c/$0.10
-- Passenger cruise days increased by 11%
-- Like for like net revenue yields 6% lower, as forecast in our previous trading update
Outlook for the remainder of 2001
-- Pace of bookings for Princess has remained in line with 2000
-- Pricing for Princess continues to be lower year over year
-- Bookings remain solid in UK, Germany and Australia
-- Overall like for like yield reduction for the year forecast at 2-3%
-- Cost reduction ahead of target
-- Our expectations for full year earnings are within the range of current market forecasts
Peter Ratcliffe, Chief Executive Officer of P&O Princess Cruises, commented, "Trading conditions in Q1 showed a considerable improvement over Q4 2000, particularly in North America. Although yields were lower year over year, in line with expectations, the increase in passenger carryings and reduced unit costs allowed us to report positive earnings in this seasonally weaker part of the year.
Looking forward to the rest of the year, our UK, German and Australian businesses continue to do well. In North America the pricing environment remains competitive but nonetheless we expect to increase earnings for the year and continue to earn returns above our cost of capital.
We have made further progress towards our strategic goals. Plans for the expansion of our German and UK businesses are on track. We continue to take steps to differentiate further our Princess product with the introduction of Personal Choice cruising reinforced by our new "I belong'' marketing campaign. Our cost reduction program is progressing well and we expect to exceed our target for this year.
Tomorrow we take delivery of Golden Princess, sister to the highly successful Grand Princess. This new ship will further strengthen the Princess fleet with its high proportion of balconies, onboard choices in dining and entertainment and cost effective operation.
The prospects for growth in cruising remain positive. With our well known brands in North America, Germany and the UK, we are well positioned to take advantage of this growth in the world's three largest vacation markets."
About P&O Princess Cruises
P&O Princess Cruises is one of the largest international cruise companies with some of the strongest cruising brand names: Princess Cruises in North America; P&O Cruises in the UK and in Australia; AIDA and Seetours in Germany and Swan Hellenic also in the UK. It is a leading provider of cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, the Panama Canal and other Exotic destinations. The current complement of 17 ships offering 24,770 berths is set to grow in the next four years with 9 new ships offering a further 19,620 berths on order.
P&O Princess Cruises has approximately 19,000 employees worldwide and in 2000 generated revenue of over $2 billion ((pound)1.4 billion). Headquartered in London, P&O Princess Cruises' ordinary shares are quoted on the London Stock Exchange and on the New York Stock Exchange.
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI, April 26 (Reuters) - UBS Warburg on Thursday cut to $1.72 its 2001 share-profits forecast for Royal Caribbean, saying ticket pricing this year would likely be worse than projected by the world's No. 2 cruise operator.
Analyst Robin Farley, who had already reduced her earnings forecasts for the company on April 17, on Thursday trimmed another 15 cents off her 2001 forecast and cut her 2002 forecast to $1.74 from $2.
Miami-based Royal Caribbean, with 21 ships sailing under the Celebrity and Royal Caribbean names, earned $2.31 a share in 2000.
Last week, before Royal Caribbean issued earnings on Wednesday, Farley had cut her 2001 forecast by 34 cents to $1.87 and next year's by 36 cents to $2.
Royal Caribbean executives, in reporting a 50 percent drop in net income for the first quarter, said the closely watched measure of revenues per passenger, or net yield, had dropped 11 percent in early 2001. Net yield would likely be off 2 percent for the last nine months of the year, they said.
Farley said in a research note that those figures implied a full-year 2001 drop in net yield of 4 percent, but that she was less optimistic and was forecasting a 5 percent overall decline.
Shares of Royal Caribbean, which Farley rates a hold, were off 65 cents, or 3.25 percent, to $19.45 in late afternoon trading on The New York Stock Exchange.
Back to the top of the news list
First Quarter 2001 Financial Results
NASSAU, The Bahamas - April 26, 2001 - Steiner Leisure Limited today announced financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2001.
Steiner Leisure's revenues for the first quarter ended March 31, 2001 rose 7.3% to $41.0 million from $38.2 million during the comparable quarter in 2000. Net income for the quarter was $5.9 million compared with $5.6 million for the same quarter in 2000.
Earnings per share for the quarter ended March 31, 2001 was $0.39 per share compared with $0.35 per share for the comparable quarter in 2000. The above earnings per share data are presented on a diluted basis.
Clive E. Warshaw, Chairman of the Board of Steiner Leisure, commented "We are very pleased with the strong results reflected in the first quarter of 2001. These increases continue to be attributable to the introduction of new ships with enlarged and enhanced shipboard spa facilities served by the company and general increases in the productivity of our shipboard employees. These results were achieved despite a number of factors that came into play during the quarter, including that, our agreement to serve the vessels of Norwegian Cruise Line was not renewed after its expiration on December 31, 2000, effective January 31, 2001 we no longer offered our services and products at the Atlantis Spa, Premier Cruise Lines filed for bankruptcy and that one of our non-spa ships was in service for only a portion of the quarter due to unscheduled mechanical problems, causing 18 days of lost productivity.''
Share Repurchase Update
Pursuant to our common share repurchase program, we repurchased a total of 849,400 of our shares for a total purchase price of $12,854,819 from January 1, 2000 through April 24, 2001. To date, we have repurchased 1,902,150 of the 3,187,250 shares authorized under the share repurchase program.
Steiner Leisure Limited is the leading worldwide provider of spa services and skin and hair products on board cruise ships. In addition, the company develops and markets premium priced, high-quality personal care products, which are sold primarily in connection with the services the company provides. The company currently serves 100 cruise vessels representing 24 cruise lines. The company also operates three post-secondary schools (comprised of nine campuses) in the United States offering degree and non-degree programs in massage therapy, skin care and related areas.
Back to the top of the news list
CARNIVAL TRIUMPH TO OPERATE FOUR- TO SEVEN-DAY VOYAGES FROM NEW YORK IN SUMMER AND FALL 2002
MIAMI 04/26/01 - Carnival Cruise Lines' 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph will operate a series of four-, five- and seven-day departures from New York to New England and Canada in the summer and fall 2002, marking the fourth consecutive year the line has offered "Fun Ship" sailings from that port.
From June 24 - Sept. 2, 2002, the 2,758-passenger vessel will sail from the Port of New York on four- and five-day cruises to the Canadian Maritime Provinces of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick. From Sept. 7-28, 2002, Carnival Triumph will operate a series of four seven-day "fall foliage" cruises round-trip from New York to ports throughout New England and Canada. Carnival Triumph's sister ship, the Carnival Victory, will operate a similar program from New York this summer and fall.
"Since the Carnival Triumph introduced four- and five-day Canada sailings from New York in 1999, the program has been a phenomenal success, attracting not only a significant number of Northeasterners but also a broad cross section of consumers from throughout the U.S.," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "We're delighted to return to New York once again to offer these convenient and affordable 'Fun Ship' cruise vacations," he added.
Four- and Five-Day Canada Cruises in Summer 2002
The Carnival Triumph will operate 11 five-day and five four-day "Fun Ship" cruises from New York to the Canadian Maritime Provinces June 24 - Sept. 2, 2002.
Four-day voyages, which feature a day-long call at Halifax, provide the perfect "extended weekend getaway," departing Thursdays and returning Mondays.
Five-day voyages, which depart either on Mondays or Saturdays, include stops at both Halifax and Saint John.
Seven-Day "Fall Foliage" Cruises from New York in September 2002 Following its four- and five-day Canada sailings, Carnival Triumph will operate a series of four week-long "fall foliage" cruises round-trip from New York in September 2002.
The sailings depart New York on four consecutive Saturdays - Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, 2002 - and feature port calls to Boston; Portland, Maine; and Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia. The convenience of sailing round-trip, versus typical fall foliage itineraries, which operate one-way north or southbound, make these voyages particularly attractive.
One of the largest passenger vessels at sea, the Carnival Triumph offers vacationers a diversity of resort-style amenities and facilities. Its 13 passenger decks house a multitude of bars, lounges and nightspots featuring dramatic interiors inspired by the world's great cities. Venues include the Big Easy Piano Bar, Oxford Bar, Hollywood Dance Club and Rome Show Lounge, a 1,500-seat theater offering lavish Las Vegas-style productions.
Dining options range from the two-level Paris and London formal restaurants offering full-service, multi-course meals to the South Beach Club, a spacious two-deck-high poolside eatery featuring casual alternatives for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Asian and American specialty areas, a New York-style deli and a 24-hour pizzeria. A patisserie and complimentary 24-hour room service are also included in the ship's myriad dining choices, which together comprise Carnival's Total Choice Dining(SM),cruising's most comprehensive dining program offering the widest range of formal and casual options at sea.
Other highlights include a duty-free shopping mall, four swimming pools (one featuring a 214-foot-long corkscrew water slide), a 15,000-square-foot health club, an expansive casino featuring a variety of slots and table games, and a 1,300-square-foot children's play area, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program. A comprehensive golf program featuring professional instruction aboard ship and during golf excursions is featured, as well.
The Carnival Triumph also houses 1,379 staterooms, more than 60 percent of which offer an ocean view with 60 percent of those featuring private balconies. The Carnival Triumph will continue its current schedule of seven-day eastern and western Caribbean cruises from the Port of Miami before launching its New York-based program June 24, 2002.
Carnival Triumph will resume week-long Caribbean sailings from Miami on Oct. 19, 2002.
Prices for the Carnival Triumph's four- and five-day Canada sailings begin at $559 per person, while seven-day "fall foliage" voyages start at $599 per person, based on double occupancy. If purchased via Carnival's new "Fun Finance" plan, Carnival Triumph's four- and five-day Canada cruises are available starting at $26 per month and seven-day "fall foliage" cruises at $28 per month (based on a 24-month payment term at the lowest annual percentage rate available). Actual monthly payment terms may vary according to the applicant's credit qualifications. Valid for U.S. individual bookings only. Certain other restrictions apply. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, along with round-trip air transportation from a variety of North American gateways, are also available.
Carnival is now accepting reservations for the Carnival Triumph's 2002 New York departures. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL. Information and reservations can also be obtained via the line's Web site at www.carnival.com.
Back to the top of the news list
Princess Ships to Launch First-Ever Seagoing AOL Internet Cafes Hosted by Princess
24-Hour, 25-Computer Internet Cafe to Debut on New Golden Princess
LOS ANGELES--April 25, 2001--Princess Cruises today announced plans to launch the first-ever seagoing AOL Internet Cafes aboard Princess Cruises' fleet of worldwide ships.
The AOL Internet Cafes hosted by Princess are the first major shipboard initiative to come from an alliance announced between P&O Princess Cruises and America Online in October 2000, and also mark the first time that any cruise company has introduced branded Internet centers at sea.
The new cafes will offer state-of-the-art computer stations for surfing the Internet and accessing e-mail, allowing new and existing AOL members to visit their favorite online features, content and services across several America Online brands.
The first such AOL Internet Cafe will debut aboard the line's new Golden Princess, which launches next month in the Mediterranean. Twenty-five computer stations will be available in this inaugural Internet Cafe, which is being designed to offer a number of AOL interactive products and services, along with other business and Internet features.
Passengers will also be able to access AOL brands through computers in Grand Princess' business center, which is being converted to an AOL Internet Cafe. Other Princess ships should also feature AOL Internet Cafes by the end of the year. The cafes will also incorporate full business capabilities, including fax machines, printers and photocopy machines.
The AOL Internet Cafe will be open 24 hours a day on board Golden Princess. P&O Princess Cruises and America Online will also engage in a series of marketing programs to promote the AOL service to Princess passengers.
In addition, AOL Hometown, AOL's popular home page community, now features a "My Princess Cruise'' personal home page template, making it easy for members to post photos and add Princess-themed graphics to their pages. This will allow passengers to create a personalized page about their cruise, and share pictures and stories with family and friends at home.
"We promised some innovative programs when P&O Princess Cruises and America Online formed this alliance,'' said Todd Putman, Princess' vice president of marketing. "And we think these first joint programs represent the exciting possibilities created by this agreement.
"Our passengers are going to love these AOL Internet Cafes, which are unique in the cruise industry, and now they can also easily create a great way to relive their vacation, with their own personalized home pages. These initiatives are yet another sign that we're committed to offering our passengers the ultimate in personal choice and customization of their cruise experience.''
"As AOL's more than 29 million members have made the service more and more central to their everyday lives, they increasingly want to be able to access convenient features like e-mail, My Calendar and stock portfolios wherever they are, whenever they want,'' said Ray Oglethorpe, president, America Online.
"We're pleased to launch these innovative new seagoing Internet Cafes with Princess, which will provide existing and new members access to AOL's easy-to-use online features, content and services, as well as our many other interactive brands. This is what our `AOL Anywhere' strategy is all about -- increasing the value and convenience we deliver to AOL members by providing integrated, easy access to all favorite features anywhere, anytime.''
Princess Cruises, one of the best-known names in North American cruising, is part of P&O Princess Cruises plc, one of the world's largest international cruise companies. Princess' global cruise and tour operations incorporate a fleet of 10 ships deployed on approximately 150 different itineraries calling at nearly 260 ports worldwide.
Back to the top of the news list
CELEBRITY CRUISES NAMES KEESLER VICE PRESIDENT,
TOTAL GUEST SATISFACTION, OPERATIONS
MIAMI - April 26, 2001 - Celebrity Cruises has named 20-year hotelier
Robert Keesler vice president of Total Guest Satisfaction, Operations. In
his new role, Keesler will oversee the delivery of Celebrity's five-star
shipboard product and ensure that the line's exacting standards are met
fleetwide.
"We are enormously pleased to have someone of Robert Keesler's
background and stature join Celebrity's quality-management team," said
Manfred Ursprunger, senior vice president of Total Guest Satisfaction.
"Keesler has managed some of the finest hotel properties in the country,
and several have their stars and diamonds because of him."
Keesler joins Celebrity from luxury hotel The Broadmoor in Colorado
Springs, Colorado, where since 1997 he has managed day-to-day operations at the 700-suite property as director of Hotel Operations. Previously, the hotel executive worked as general manager of the Westin St. John in St. John, U.S.V.I., and as operations manager at the Westin Resort in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Earlier, he held multiple management positions with Ritz-Carlton at Dearborn, Michigan, and Laguna Niguel, California, properties.
The state of Colorado also tapped Keesler 's hospitality skills. For the
last two years, Keesler has served as vice chairman of the Colorado Tourism Office and chairman of the state's Marketing Committee. In both positions, he provided oversight to the state's promotions, advertising and public relations activities. Keesler was named Colorado Hotelier of the Year in 2000.
Keesler holds a bachelor's degree in business and history from Wofford
College in Spartanburg, S. C.
Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry and has the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Celebrity's eighth ship, Summit, will launch this fall, and an additional Millennium-class ship will make its maiden voyage in 2002. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.
Back to the top of the news list
By Michael Connor
MIAMI, April 25 (Reuters) - Royal Caribbean, the world's No. 2 cruise group, said on Wednesday first-quarter profits were halved from early 2000 and that U.S. economic weakness would hurt ticket prices for the rest of the year.
The Miami-based company, which operates 21 ships in its Royal Caribbean and Celebrity fleets, said net income in the three months ending March 31 was $52.5 million, or 27 cents a share.
A year earlier, when profits were lifted by high-priced cruises celebrating the Millennium, the company had profits of $105.5 million, or 55 cents a share.
Share profits fell within the 22 cents to 28 cents range as reported by a Thomson Financial/First Call survey of 16 analysts, whose mean forecast was 26 cents per share.
Royal Caribbean shares fell 71 cents, or 3.5 percent, to $19.70 on the New York Stock Exchange. In Oslo trading, the shares closed off 8 crowns at 180, after going as low as 173, on the earnings news.
Revenues totaled $727 million, up 3 percent from $708 million in 2000 on added berths on new ships. The company said gains from the 14 percent rise in passenger capacity was offset by a dramatic 11 percent drop in net yields.
Even without the benefit a year earlier from the Millennium sailings, worth $30 million in net income, the company said in a news release that net yield, a measure of revenues per passenger closely watched by Wall Street, dropped 4 percent in the quarter.
Royal Caribbean said ticket pricing had brightened briefly in early 2001 but was again soft. Analysts have forecast that overall yields for big cruise operators, such as Carnival Corp. and P&O Princess would be flat to down in 2001.
"As we all know, the slowdown of the economy is affecting consumer spending. This impact, coupled with increased industry capacity, continues to put pressure on pricing. As a result, we now forecast yields for the last nine months of 2001 to be down 2 percent on a year-over-year basis,'' CEO Richard Fain said.
The sluggish U.S. economy and a high-octane fleet expansion adding thousands of cruise berths yearly are seen as weighing on the sector, whose biggest competitors enjoyed profitable growth throughout the 1990s.
Royal Caribbean made no comment on future earnings, which analysts forecast for the full year to be between $2.31 and $1.87 a share, according to Thomson Financial/First Call. The company had share earnings of $2.31 last year.
Chief Financial Officer Richard Glasier said yields at Royal Caribbean would be down 6 percent to 7 percent through June, improve somewhat in the third quarter but still be below 2000's rate, and show gains in late 2001.
"This is definitely a substantially softer market,'' Fain said in a conference call with institutional investors.
Industry analyst Tim Condor of broker AG Edwards & Sons said the gloomy yield forecast from Royal Caribbean was no surprise since Carnival, the No. 1 operator, said last month it was encountering price weakness, especially in its ultra luxury segments.
The U.S. shares of Royal Caribbean, whose ships sail to more than 200 destinations around the world, are well off a 52 week high of $30.25 touched on Feb. 9 and down more than 20 percent for the year.
By comparison the Dow Jones index of recreational stocks is up nearly 3 percent so far in 2001, while Carnival is off 14 percent this year. Carnival shares were down 36 cents at $25.39 on the New York Stock Exchange.
Back to the top of the news list
AMCV Christens cv Cape May Light in Alexandria, Virginia: Christening Marks Historic Occasion for U.S.-Flag Cruise Industry
ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 25 - American Classic Voyages Co. will christen the U.S.-flag cv Cape May Light, the first vessel in its Delta Queen Coastal Voyages' fleet, in an historic ceremony in Alexandria, Va. This is the first christening of a cruise ship in the Washington, D.C. area in the modern era. The 224-passenger cruise ship will visit ports including Alexandria/Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Annapolis, Norfolk, and many other cities and towns along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, Great Lakes, and Canadian Maritime Provinces.
The Honorable Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, will serve as the keynote speaker at the christening ceremony. In comments on the christening of the cv Cape May Light, Secretary Chao said, "I am pleased to be a part of the historic christening of the cv Cape May Light, a U.S. built ship that will sail proudly under the U.S. flag with an American crew. Sustaining and building a strong American maritime industry is important to our nation's security and economy.''
Philip C. Calian, chief executive officer of AMCV, stated, "We are proud to be holding this historic ceremony at the doorway to our nation's capital. As the cv Cape May Light begins her inaugural voyages to some of the most historic and beautiful coastal cities and towns in our nation, we are thankful to our friends in the U.S. Congress, the Administration and the maritime community whose support for laws like the Jones Act, Passenger Vessel Services Act, and Title XI loan guarantee program help make projects like this become reality. This is truly a momentous occasion for AMCV and the U.S.-flag cruise industry.''
Roderick K. McLeod, president and chief operating officer of AMCV, stated, "The cv Cape May Light will offer travelers an unmatched opportunity to sail along the coastlines of the Americas, exploring coastal cities and towns in a way not offered by any other cruise line. The ship enables travelers to combine the benefits of cruise vacationing with meaningful destination experiences that highlight the heritage and history of America.''
The cv Cape May Light, built in Jacksonville, Fla. by Atlantic Marine, Inc., was delivered to AMCV on April 12, 2001. The ship's accommodations include 113 rooms, with 88 percent outside staterooms, all with the modern comforts of cruising including TV-VCR units with satellite service and radio, ship-to-shore telephones, and individual climate controls. The cv Cape May Light also features the Foyer and Purser's Area, Harbor Lights Lounge, Fogcutters Pub, Rosecliff Dining Room, Lighthouse Keeper's Bar, and gift shop, along with rich Federal decor and state-of-the-art safety technology throughout the ship.
"We at Atlantic Marine are proud to do our part to prove that American shipyards can successfully fulfill our role in rebuilding the U.S.-flag cruise industry,'' said Ed Doherty, president, Atlantic Marine, Inc. "This segment of the maritime industry can provide great opportunities for our nation's shipbuilders.''
The cv Cape May Light's nine spring, summer, and fall itineraries will showcase the beauty of the U.S. Eastern Coastline, the Great Lakes, and the Canadian Maritime Provinces. These inaugural sailings include visits to more than 25 ports, including such historic and scenic cities and towns as Norfolk and Jamestown, Va.; Annapolis and St. Michaels, Md.; Philadelphia, Pa.; New York City; New London and Mystic, Conn.; Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard and Fall River, Mass.; Providence and Newport, R.I.; Portsmouth, N.H.; Kennebuckport and Portland, Me.; Wilmington, N.C.; Charleston, S.C.; Savannah, St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, Ga.; and Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Fla. Delta Queen Coastal Voyages' three winter vacation itineraries will explore the coastlines of Belize, Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico, and Panama.
Delta Queen Coastal Voyages, is a subsidiary of American Classic Voyages Co., the largest owner and operator of U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed passenger vessels. AMCV cruise lines explore destinations along the inland rivers and coastal waterways of the Americas, and sails throughout the Hawaiian Islands. For more information, visit www.coastalvoyages.com and www.amcv.com.
Back to the top of the news list
Royal Caribbean Reports Increased Earnings During Conference Call
MIAMI, April 25 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced today that revenues for the first quarter of 2001 were $727 million, up 3 percent from $708 million in 2000. The increase in revenues was due primarily to an increase in capacity in the quarter, offset by a decline in yields. Yields, defined as net revenues per available passenger cruise day, were down 11 percent for the quarter, primarily due to the impact of the Millennium New Year's event, which positively affected the first quarter of 2000. Excluding the impact of the Millennium event, yields were down 4 percent. Net income for the quarter was $52 million, as compared with $106 million in the first quarter of 2000. Earnings per share were $0.27, versus $0.55 in the prior year.
Efforts to stimulate demand and attract first-time cruisers continued in the first quarter with the launch of new ad campaigns for the Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises brands. Both of these ad campaigns have been successful in increasing brand awareness among consumers and travel agents, as evidenced by recent surveys from independent sources and a tripling in the monthly number of visitors to each of the brands' Web sites.
The newest additions to the company's fleet, Infinity for the Celebrity Cruises brand and Radiance of the Seas for Royal Caribbean International, entered into service last month. These ships join Celebrity's Millennium as the first in the industry to use smokeless gas turbine engines.
"We know our guests are as concerned as we are about protecting the environment," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "We take great pride in introducing this technology not only because it corresponds to the desires of the consumer, but also because it's the right thing to do." Both ships are heading to Alaska for the summer, and the company believes they will be the most innovative hardware available in the region.
Also geared at the Alaska market, the company's newest division, Royal Celebrity Tours, took delivery of its first two rail cars -- the largest domed rail cars in the world -- and begins its inaugural season of operation next month. A six-city whistle stop tour of the rail cars through the Midwest and West previewed the new premium Alaskan land product to travel agents and media.
"Although this year's booking period started out strong, we are disappointed that the momentum did not continue as long as we would have liked," said Fain. "As we all know, the slowdown of the economy is affecting consumer spending. This impact, coupled with increased industry capacity, continues to put pressure on pricing. As a result, we now forecast yields for the last nine months of 2001 to be down 2 percent on a year-over-year basis."
"While the pricing environment remains challenging, we believe the long- term fundamentals of the industry remain intact. We firmly believe our young, innovative fleet is competing aggressively in this market. Our product offering is effectively attracting first-time cruisers and providing new options to our large base of loyal guests."
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Celebrity Tours. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have a combined total of 21 ships in service and eight under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates cruise-tour vacations in Alaska utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com or www.celebritycruises.com.
The company held a conference call at 10 a.m. today to discuss its earnings. The "Investors' Overview" call can be replayed on the Company's investor relations Web site at www.rclinvestor.com.
Back to the top of the news list
MIAMI, April 24 - Seabourn Cruise Line today revealed its new wines and spirits list, describing it as "unprecedented at sea and even surpassing many of the world's finest restaurants and hotels.''
This announcement and the above comment were made by Richard Meadows, CTC, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, who noted that the new list is an integral element of the ultra luxury line's recently revealed enhancement program "Seabourn Refined,'' debuting on its intimate, yacht-like cruisers.
"We are exceedingly proud of our new collection of wines and spirits,'' he said. "Seabourn guests appreciate the world's finest, be it service, amenities, cuisine, wine or other beverages. To achieve the club-like ambience our ships are known for, we endeavor to offer the best of the best in all aspects of our cruise product. This certainly includes wines and spirits.''
The imposing new wine menu features more than 200 wines from the world's top wine-growing regions. This includes a wide variety of classic labels and vintages as well as rare, boutique wines of limited production.
More than 50 quality wines from around the world, praised by wine connoisseurs and other experts, are served at no charge to Seabourn guests with lunches and dinners on board, and are also stocked in passengers' in- suite bars at no cost.
There are also more than 100 internationally known spirits available, including whiskeys, brandies, aperitifs, cordials and liqueurs. More than 75 brands and varieties of these are likewise complimentary throughout the ship and are stocked in the in-suite bars.
"Our complimentary wines and spirits include some of the world's best labels and brands,'' said Meadows. "In addition to these, we do offer some rare vintages and superior spirits for sale at very attractive prices, a better value than our guests will find ashore.''
Seabourn guests also appreciate activities such as frequent, complimentary wine tastings and discussions by the ship's sommelier and in-depth wine lectures offered by guest winemakers and other experts.
Lawrence Rapp, Vice President, Hotel Operations, provided a quick portrait of Seabourn's exclusive offerings of both fine wines and spirits. Of Seabourn's extensive new wine inventory, Rapp stated, ``Quite simply, our intention was to develop a wine list comprising many of the world's best known wines, along with a unique selection of limited production wines offering outstanding quality. We are confident our knowledgeable guests will be highly pleased with our classic, first and second growth reds and whites from France, and truly extraordinary wines from Italy, Spain, Germany, California, Australia and Chile.''
SEABOURN WINES AND SPIRITS: A PARTIAL LIST
Spirits which are complimentary throughout all Seabourn yachts include: Scotch Whisky: Ballantine's; Johnny Walker Red and Black; Dewar's White Label, Famous Grouse, Teacher's; Cutty Sark; Chivas Regal; Haig Dimple. Malt Whisky: Glenfiddich, Glenmorangie; Glenlivet, MacAllan 25 year old; Laphroaig; Dalwhinnie; Lagavulin. Bourbon Whiskey: Maker's Mark; Jack Daniel's Black Label; Jim Beam; I.W. Harper; Wild Turkey. Canadian Whiskey: Canadian Club; Seagram's V.O.; Crown Royal. Gin: Beefeater; Tanqueray; Bombay Sapphire. Vodka: Absolut (including flavors); Stolichnaya; Finlandia; Skyy; Ketel One. Rum: Bacardi Silver and Gold; Myer's; Mount Gay. Cognacs: Courvoisier VSOP; Remy Martin VSOP; Martell VSOP.
Fine wines on Seabourn's complimentary list include: Sparkling Wine -- Mumm Cuvee Napa Brut. White Wines -- Chardonnay R. H. Phillips, Napa Valley, California; Chardonnay Caliterra, Chile; Gavi Batasiola, Italy; Macon Villages George Duboeuf, Burgundy, France; Red Wines -- Pinot Noir, Loraine Valley, California; Cabernet Sauvignon, Domaine St. George, Napa Valley, California; Merlot Aresti, Chile; Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Farnese, Italy; Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon Banrock Station, Australia.
Additional labels and vintages available in Seabourn's cellars include: Champagnes and Sparkling Wines -- Cristal Louis Roederer (1993), Cuvee La Grande Dame, Veuve Clicquot (1990), Grand Cordon Rouge, Mumm (1985), Brut J. Schram, Schramsberg, Napa Valley (1988). Older Classics -- Chateau Petrus, Grand Vin, Pomerol (1979), Chateau Haut-Brion, First Growth, Graves (1988) Chateau Lafitte-Rothschild, First Growth, Pauillac (1993), Chateau Margaux, First Growth, Margaux (1988), Romanee-Saint-Vivant, Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti (1993). European White Wines -- Gewurztraminer, Trimbach (1998), Pavillon Blanc, Chateau Margaux (1993), Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Bonneau Martay (1994), Pinot Grigio ``Benefizium Porer'', Alois Lageder, Alto Adige (1998), Albarino, Morgadio, Rias Baixas (1998). European Red Wines -- Chateau Cos D'Estournel, Second Growth, (1993), Chateau Figeac, First Growth (1983), Nuits-Saint-Georges, Louis Jadot (1997). White Wines of the New World -- Chardonnay, Kumeu River, Auckland (1996), Semillon, Lowe Family, Hunter Valley, Australia (1999), Chardonnay reserve ``La Escultura estate'', Errazuriz, Casablanca Valley, Chile (1997). Red Wines of the New World -- Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz ``Black Label'' (1995), Cabernet Sauvignon ``Reserva de Familia'' De Martino, Maipo Valle, Chile (1997). Unique Selections from Around the World -- Patz & Hall ``Woolsey Road Vineyard'', Russian River Valley (1998), Joseph Phelps ``Insignia'', Napa Valley (1995), Duckhorn Merlot ``Howell Mountain,'' Napa Valley (1995). Dessert Wines -- Chateau d'Yquem, Great First Growth Sauternes (1989)
Seabourn is an ultra-luxury cruise line with stylish, yacht-like vessels. The Seabourn fleet includes Seabourn Sun, Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend and Seabourn Goddess I and II. Seabourn Cruise Line is a member of the exclusive World's leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Costa Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Together, these member lines share a commitment to quality and value, offering cruise vacations that appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets and sail to some of the world's most exciting destinations.
Back to the top of the news list
Got a question about Princess Cruises?
For an answer online, Ask Jeeves!
EMERYVILLE, Calif., April 23 -- Ask Jeeves Business Solutions, a division of Ask Jeeves, Inc, announced today that Princess Cruises has selected Ask Jeeves Business Solutions to connect its online customers with answers to questions about Princess Cruises' destinations. Princess Cruises, one of the world's leading cruise lines, selected Ask Jeeves Answers 5.0(SM) to help them replicate on their Web site the outstanding service for which they are known. Ask Jeeves natural language question answering and popularity-based search technology will enable customers planning a vacation to ask questions and be directed to relevant information about Princess' services.
Ask Jeeves will also help Princess learn about its customers through every question they ask. With advanced tracking and analysis tools, Answers 5.0 reveals the preferences, wants and needs of customers, helping Princess refine and optimize its Web site content. By creating a window into the minds of online customers, Ask Jeeves provides Princess with the opportunity to use customer feedback to guide product and service offerings, marketing and sales efforts.
"Princess Cruises prides itself on offering top-notch service. Ask Jeeves will help us extend that reputation to the Internet with a customer-centric Web site that provides our users with an easy way to get the travel information they need," said Todd Putman, vice president marketing of Princess Cruises. "Through Ask Jeeves' natural language interface, we expect to learn about our customers by analyzing the questions they ask. This is a valuable communication tool that will help align our site content with the needs of our customers."
Princess prides itself on "Personal Choice Cruising", offering the traveler the opportunity to customize their cruise experience based on individual desires. Ask Jeeves will help extend the brand online by providing users an easy way to get the travel information they need to make their decisions once they board a Princess ship. Princess Cruises' customers will now be able to ask questions in plain English such as "What will my stateroom look like on the Golden Princess?" or "How many ports of call will I visit?" and be directed to appropriate photographs or relevant answers on the company's Web site at www.princess.com.
"Ask Jeeves Business Solutions will give Princess' customers a convenient way to ask questions and get answers online that they might have had to ask a customer service representative for in the past," said Claudio Pinkus, president of Ask Jeeves Business Solutions. "Princess will also gain a better understanding of its customers through our customer intelligence tools, helping it to better anticipate and meet customer demand."
Answers 5.0 is anticipated to go live on Princess Cruises' Web sites in June 2001.
About Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises, one of the best-known names in North American cruising, is a global cruise and tour company. Part of P&O Princess Cruises, it operates ten ships on nearly 150 different itineraries calling at more than 220 ports around the globe. By 2004, a further five ships will be added to its worldwide fleet. Cruises range from seven to 72 days in length to destinations including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal, Mexico, South Pacific, South America, Hawaii/Tahiti, Asia, India, Africa, Holy Land, Canada/New England, Bermuda and world voyages. Princess is also one of the leaders in Alaska cruise tour vacations, and owns four riverside wilderness lodges, with a fifth under construction, plus a fleet of UltraDome railcars and luxury motorcoaches which take passengers through the heart of the 49th state. Princess additionally operates cruise tours in China, Australia, Africa, India, Europe, the Canadian Rockies and the eastern United States.
About Ask Jeeves Business Solutions
Ask Jeeves Business Solutions is the leading provider of natural language navigation solutions that deliver essential customer intelligence. Through an intuitive, question-answering interface that connects customers with the information, products and services they are looking for, Ask Jeeves delivers critical, customer-driven information to corporations. This essential data enables companies worldwide to build profitable relationships with their customers, prospects and suppliers. By learning from every online customer interaction, Ask Jeeves Business Solutions help companies increase sales, decrease support costs and guide product, sales and marketing strategies. Corporate customers including DaimlerChrysler, Dell, Ford Motor Company, Network Appliance, Nextel and Radio Shack use Ask Jeeves Business Solutions. A division of Ask Jeeves, Inc. based in Emeryville, Calif., Ask Jeeves Business Solutions may be contacted at www.corporate.ask.com or at 510-985-7400.
NOTE: Ask Jeeves is a registered trademark of Ask Jeeves, Inc. Jeeves Answers, the "Ask" button and Jeeves Insight are service marks of Ask Jeeves, Inc. Other trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.
Back to the top of the news list
MAIDEN VOYAGE OF NORWEGIAN STAR NOW AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING
Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Vessel Offers its Inaugural Cruise
In Time To Celebrate Thanksgiving 2001
MIAMI -- Norwegian Cruise Line's newest and largest vessel, Norwegian Star, is now available for bookings. The ship, accommodating 2,200 passengers and 1,100 crew, will be built at the maximum size to fit through the Panama Canal. What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than sailing from one U.S. coast to another via the fabled canal?
On November 19, 2001, as a special Thanksgiving Day celebration, Norwegian Star will depart Miami to begin its 14-day maiden voyage to Los Angeles. The itinerary will take passengers through the Caribbean, with a stop in South America, transit the Panama Canal, make numerous visits along Mexico's gold coast, and spend the day in San Diego. Specifically, the itinerary includes:
- Nov. 19 Depart Miami, Florida
- Nov. 20-21 At Sea
- Nov. 22 Oranjestad, Aruba
- Nov. 23 Cartagena, Columbia
- Nov. 24 Daylight transit of the Panama Canal
- Nov. 25-26 At Sea
- Nov. 27 Acapulco, Mexico
- Nov. 28 Manzanillo, Mexico
- Nov. 29 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Nov. 30 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- Dec. 1 At Sea
- Dec. 2 San Diego, California
- Dec. 3 Los Angeles, California
Departing on December 5, 2001, following her maiden voyage, Norwegian Star will offer a 10-day cruise from Mexico to Hawaii, before beginning her scheduled deployment in the Hawaiian islands out of Honolulu. This itinerary will include:
- Dec. 5 Depart Ensenada, Mexico
- Dec. 6-9 At Sea
- Dec. 10 Hilo, Hawaii with evening sail past the Kilauea Volcano
- Dec. 11 Kona, Hawaii
- Dec. 12 Nawiliwili, Kauai, Hawaii
- Dec. 13-14 Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
- Dec. 15 Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
A Stellar Line-Up of Culinary Options
With the flexibility of ten different restaurants and 11 different menus every night, Norwegian Star's passengers will be able to enjoy a different restaurant every night of a seven day cruise without even having to dine in the main restaurant, should that be their preference. In keeping with NCL's Freestyle Cruising, the ship will feature more dining options than any other ship in the North American market. Passengers can choose from an array of restaurants including:
- Versailles - an ornate restaurant, offering the traditional six-course cruise dining experience.
- Aqua - a contemporary-styled restaurant, offering a lighter modern menu.
- SoHo Room - a high-end Pacific Rim restaurant featuring a fusion of Californian, Hawaiian and Asian cuisine.
- Ginza - a Japanese restaurant featuring an à la carte section, a sit-up sushi and tempura bar, and a teppanyaki room.
- Le Bistro - a French restaurant featuring NCL's trademark menu of nouvelle cuisine and French classics.
- The Blue Lagoon - a food court-style casual eatery featuring hamburgers, fish & chips, pot pies and wok fast dishes.
- Market Café - an Indoor/outdoor buffet restaurant extending over a third of a deck and including trademark "action stations" featuring prepared-to-order omelets, waffles, fruit, soups, ethnic specialties, and pasta in addition to extensive and varied selections arranged along 130 yards of buffet serving counters.
- Las Ramblas - a Spanish Tapas restaurant and bar with full selection of hot and cold Tapas dishes and authentic entertainment.
- La Trattoria - an Italian restaurant serving pasta, pizza and other popular Italian fare.
- Endless Summer - a Hawaiian themed restaurant arranged around the second level of the central atrium and incorporating a performance stage and a large movie screen.
In addition, Norwegian Star will offer an array of casual snacking and café outlets, including an on-deck grill, an ice cream bar, a coffee shop and 24-hour hot and cold room service.
Norwegian Star will offer plenty of opportunities for those passengers who wish to work off any unwanted pounds. The Sports Deck will contain a golf driving range, volleyball and basketball court, while a two deck fitness and spa center will boast state-of-the-art cardiovascular workout equipment, aerobic and boxercise area with a sprung wooden floor, steam and sauna rooms, a jet-current exercise pool, an interior 20-yard lap pool, and whirlpool and hydrotherapy facilities.
Hawaiian-based Mandara Spa, the world's leading operator of landside resort spas, will pamper NCL passengers with an exotic menu of spa and beauty treatments combining the best of East and West.
Norwegian Star will set new cabin standards, with rich cherry wood finishing, tea and coffee makers in every cabin, and a much larger bathroom unit than those on other ships, with separate WC, shower, and washstand compartments separated by sliding doors. Seventy percent of cabins are outside staterooms and more than 70% of these have balconies.
Unlike anything on any other vessel today, a steel and glass structure on top of the ship, aft from the main sundeck, will boast a fantasy-world complex of multi-room villas offering panoramic views of the ocean, each with a roof terrace and private garden featuring open-air dining, Jacuzzis, and totally private sunning and relaxation areas.
Thirty-six penthouse suites, an entire deck of 107 mini suites with balconies and 372 standard staterooms with balconies, and an entire deck of 107 mini-suites with balconies are among the spacious and well-appointed accommodations located on the 15-deck ship. There also will be 20 cabins of various types designed for passengers with disabilities. Most cabins will include a sofa-bed or pop-up trundle bed giving a third lower bed and many will have a fourth, pull-down berth. The ship also will offer a large number of cabins (including suites and mini-suites) that can interconnect to create a two, three, four or five bedroom area suitable for small or large families.
The ship will be particularly family-friendly with a huge children's center complete with a playroom, outdoor pool, movie theater, computer rooms, teen center, video arcade, a nursery and toddlers' nap room. There will even be a special children's area in the buffet restaurant with their own low-level serving counter and kid-sized tables and chairs. In addition, one of the ship's most distinctive attractions will be the on-board theater, reaching up three decks and seating an audience of 1,150 in a traditional European opera house ambiance.
Cruise-only fares for Norwegian Star's maiden voyage, November 19 - December 3, start at $1,499 inside cabin/$1,699 oceanview cabin*; and $1,199 inside/$1,399 oceanview* for the 10-day cruise from Mexico to Hawaii, December 5 - December 15. Norwegian Star's seven day Hawaii holiday cruises start at $1,299 inside/$1,499 oceanview*. Beginning January 6, 2002, cruise-only fares for Norwegian Star's year-round Hawaii cruises start at $999 inside/$1,199 oceanview.*
Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line is an international cruise company and industry innovator that currently operates a fleet of eight ships sailing to more than 200 ports around the world. NCL is currently building three new ships: Norwegian Sun, a 1,960-passenger sister ship to Norwegian Sky (for delivery September 2001); and Norwegian Dawn, a 2,200-passenger sister ship to Norwegian Star (for delivery in December 2002).
For further information on NCL, contact a travel agent or NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 327-7030; in Miami-Dade County, Florida, (305) 436-0866; or visit Norwegian Cruise Line on AOL at keyword: NCL.
Back to the top of the news list
DISNEY CRUISE LINE NOW DEPARTING FROM DISNEY'S
ANIMAL KINGDOM
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - As a perfect ending to the land portion of a Disney Cruise Line land/sea vacation, guests can spend their embarkation morning at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park.
Disney's Animal Kingdom has been designated as an official departure location for Disney Cruise Line guests. When Disney Cruise Line guests arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort, they receive a letter inviting them to depart from the vacation kingdom's newest theme park. The letter provides instructions on how to make arrangements to depart from the park, including information regarding where small day bags can be stored.
Upon arrival at Disney's Animal Kingdom, guests check-in with a Disney Cruise Line representative located at the front entrance of the theme park to confirm their 12:45 p.m. departure to Port Canaveral, Fla.
Guests are free to explore the exciting worlds where wild and whimsical creatures come to life on thrill rides and on an authentic African safari, in theaters brimming with colorful entertainment and through up-close meetings with the animal stars of Disney feature animation. Guests can hop aboard a real safari to capture poachers and explore the wilds of Africa and ride raging rapids through a threatened rainforest, or marvel at tigers, fruit bats and other creatures amid the ruins of an ancient Asian village. Disney Cruise Line offers guests an exciting new way to vacation with Disney. The Disney Magic sails a seven-night eastern Caribbean cruise vacation that features magical entertainment, a clever programming series during sea days and unique dining experiences for all ages. The Disney Wonder offers one-of-a-kind land and sea vacations that combine the fun and excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort with the enchantment of a Disney Cruise Line voyage to the Bahamas.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a Disney Cruise Line vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500.
Back to the top of the news list
For a Different and Unique Vacation
Rent Your Own Deluxe Yacht in Holland
MIAMI -- Holland and water go hand in hand. No country in the world as such a water-rich history as Holland. What better way to see this beautiful country fixated on water than from the water. It is the perfect setting for an intimate family vacation, a team-building retreat or just for friends to enjoy. Your tour possibilities are endless! Sail the Wadden Sea and the famed fresh water-lake Ijsselmeer, tie up in such historical towns and traditional fishing villages, travel the canals of 17th century Amsterdam and visit the Rijksmuseum or sail to 13th century castles in rural Friesland.
For 25 years, Sailcharter Holland has specialized in the construction and rental of round and flat bottom sail yachts. Each and every ship reflects the expertise with which it was made, and the love for traditional ships. The emphasis here is on quality making Sailcharter Holland the largest hire company for these yachts in Holland today. Once he boat of your choice is reserved, you will receive the "Shipsmanual." To get acquainted with the yacht you will also receive extensive personal instruction on board the ship. Prices start at US $2,170.00 per week for a 23.4 ft yacht.
If you are more comfortable with a vacation on the water with all the modern comforts of home, Holland Cruising Adventure is for you. Charter your own private deluxe yacht, the "IJssellake Cruiser." These cruises include a Captain, breakfasts, luncheons and on-board drinks, and are fully equipped and custom built for your comfort. You'll see Holland from the lap of luxury. Different floor plans with cozy yet private quarters are available and your choice of boat depends on your holiday plans.
Prices start at US $8,560.00 per week for a 46 ft motor yacht.
For more information or reservations, please contact Destination Solutions: Phone: (305) 538-9856, Fax: (305) 538-3345 or e-mail:
Back to the top of the news list
