Cruise News from Cruise Diva Linda Coffman's Cruise Planner

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MIAMI, June 20 - The United States Coast Guard has recognized Celebrity Cruises for its superior environmental operations by awarding the cruise line its 2002 William M. Benkert Award For Environmental Excellence.

Celebrity was the only cruise line recognized by the Coast Guard in the biennial presentation of its premier national award that recognizes marine environmental excellence. The award was established to recognize vessel and facility operators who have displayed marine environmental excellence through programs that exceed mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards. The awardees are selected after a competitive evaluation process involving rigorous standards.

"I could not be more proud of this accomplishment," said Jack Williams, president and chief operating officer of Celebrity Cruises. "We take our environmental stewardship of the seas very seriously, and we value this award so highly because it is presented by the Coast Guard, which oversees our activities on a daily basis. I congratulate and thank all of our employees for their ongoing dedication to our exceptional environmental practices."

The Coast Guard selected companies in Texas, Kentucky, Washington, Louisiana, New Jersey, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Alaska to receive the eight Benkert Awards presented this year. Of the eight award winners, only two companies ranked higher than Celebrity Cruises.

* Being the first cruise line in the world to use gas-turbine powered cruise ships. The company's four ships with smokeless, gas-turbine propulsions systems have dramatically reduced exhaust emissions, by more than 90 percent.

* Obtaining the International Standards Organization's ISO 14001 certification for fleet-wide environmental management systems.

* Having the first vessels to receive Lloyd's Register Environmental Protection Certification, recognizing the company's commitment to strict environmental compliance.

* The installation of more than $3 million worth of state-of-the-art gray water and black water treatment systems onboard Mercury and Galaxy. The units use a reverse osmosis process (like that used to make bottled water) to clean gray water and black water so effectively that they meet the most stringent discharge standards, including those in Alaska.

* Investing more than $10 million to improve engine efficiency, reduce nitrous oxide and sulfur oxide emissions, and reduce visible smoke emissions from its Century-class ships

* Implementing a comprehensive environmental protection program throughout its fleet, known as Save the Waves, that focuses on three principles: to reduce the creation or generation of waste materials; to recycle as much as possible; and to ensure proper disposal of remaining wastes.

* Creating the fleet-wide position of Environmental Officer, and establishing specific training programs for that position, to provide daily, onboard oversight of the proper implementation of the company's environmental policies and procedures.

* The fleet-wide installations of closed loop Perchloroethylene (Perc) filling systems for use with dry cleaning machinery, and the fleet-wide installation of filtration systems for Perc condensate that filters dry cleaning chemicals to a level low enough to allow non-hazardous waste disposal onshore.

* Creating an energy conservation and crew training program that resulted in a 5.5 percent reduction in fuel consumption and cost savings of $14 million.

* Contributing more that $4.9 million, through the company's Ocean Fund, to 34 organizations working to preserve the ecosystems of the world's oceans.

* Senior company executives participating as board members with groups such as The National Audubon Society, The Nature Conservatory, and the World Wildlife Federation.

In announcing the award recipients the Coast Guard noted that the overall level of environmental excellence reflected by the programs and accomplishments in all this year's award applications demonstrated that companies are continuing to make environmental stewardship an integral part of their business practices. The Coast Guard will present the Benkert Awards on June 24, in La Jolla, California.

The award competition is comprised of six award categories: large and small business vessel operators, large and small business marine facility operators, foreign vessel operators, and small business operators.

Applicants were evaluated on their environmental objectives and policies, pollution prevention and safety quality management, environmental outreach efforts, participation in partnerships with environmental organizations and government agencies, and performance measures and results.

The award is named in honor of Rear Admiral William M. Benkert (1923-1989), a distinguished Coast Guard officer widely known for his leadership and vision in marine environmental excellence.

Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated, fastest-growing premium cruise line in the industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. The Celebrity fleet consists of nine ships. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.

MIAMI (06/20/02) - Carnival Corporation reported net income of $194.2 million ($0.33 Diluted EPS) on revenues of $989.2 million for its second quarter ended May 31, 2002, compared to net income of $187.0 million ($0.32 Diluted EPS) on revenues of $1.08 billion for the same quarter in 2001.

Net income for the six months ended May 31, 2002 was $323.8 million ($0.55 Diluted EPS) on revenues of $1.89 billion, compared to net income of $314.9 million ($0.54 Diluted EPS) on revenues of $2.09 billion for the same period in 2001.

Earnings for the second quarter of 2002 were reduced by a $9 million loss, including related expenses, on the sale of Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam and by $12 million from cancelled cruises. Revenues for the second quarter of 2002 were 8.3 percent lower than last year primarily because of lower cruise ticket prices, largely attributed to the events of September 11, and a significant decline in the number of guests purchasing air transportation from the company. This was partially offset by an increase in cruise capacity of 2.1 percent. Net revenue yield (net revenue per available berth day after deducting the cost of air transportation and travel agent commissions) was down 5.3 percent, compared to the previous year's second quarter.

Partially offsetting the lower revenues was a 5.7 percent reduction in the company's cost per available berth day (excluding the cost of air transportation and travel agent commissions) due in part to the timing of advertising expenditures. Second quarter 2002 results also did not include any losses from the company's investment in Airtours plc, which was sold in June 2001.

Commenting on the second quarter results, Carnival Corporation Chairman and CEO Micky Arison said he was pleased that the company has continued to improve its performance since the events of September 11, noting that net revenue yields in the second quarter improved significantly from the 7.5 percent decline experienced in the first quarter of 2002. "Our results in the second quarter clearly demonstrate the continuing recovery of our cruise business, in spite of the current economic uncertainty and political unrest," he said. In addition, Arison noted that the results from the company's "cost containment initiatives continue to mitigate the pressure on net revenue yields."

Booking levels during the 2002 second quarter were substantially ahead of last year. During the last few weeks, booking levels have been approximately equal to last year's levels. Arison added that cruise pricing has largely recovered from the significantly discounted levels last fall, now running only slightly below the comparable period last year. On a cumulative basis, advance bookings and average prices for the balance of 2002 remain below last year's levels, primarily as a result of the dramatic slowdown in 2002 bookings last fall and the shift toward closer-to-sailing booking patterns.

"Based on bookings to date, we expect the trend in sequential yield improvement to continue through the remainder of the year, with net revenue yields expected to be down 3 percent to 5 percent in the third quarter and up slightly in the fourth quarter," Arison noted.

During the second quarter of 2002, Holland America announced that it had exercised its option for the construction of a fifth 1,848-passenger Vista-class ship, which is scheduled for delivery in spring 2006. Looking to the remainder of 2002, Carnival Cruise Lines plans to introduce the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend in August 2002, offering the brand's first-ever cruises from Europe. Following its European program, the Carnival Legend will operate a series of voyages from various North American ports and then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to operate eight-day Caribbean sailings beginning Nov. 10. Carnival Cruise Lines is also scheduled to launch its largest passenger ship ever, the 2,974-passenger Carnival Conquest, from New Orleans in mid-November 2002, and Holland America's 1,848-passenger Zuiderdam is scheduled to enter service in December 2002 from Fort Lauderdale.

The company scheduled a conference call with analysts to discuss its 2002 second quarter earnings. This call can be listened to live, and additional information can be obtained at Carnival Corporation's Web site at www.carnivalcorp.com.

Carnival Corporation is a global vacation and leisure travel provider that operates Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise line based on passengers carried, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Windstar Cruises and Holland America Tours. Carnival Corporation's six cruise brands operate 43 ships in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexican Riviera, South America and other worldwide destinations, and have 15 new ships scheduled for delivery during the next four years.

LONDON, June 19 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today welcomed publication of a report by the UK Competition Commission into its proposed merger with P&O Princess Cruises, and the announcement by the UK Competition Minister that she has accepted its findings that the merger would not be against the public interest.

Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive of Royal Caribbean, said: "Naturally we are delighted with this decision. It means that our agreed merger has now cleared all regulatory hurdles in Europe.

"We have been able to satisfy the UK Commission that our merger will not pose any problems from a competition viewpoint. This is true regardless of market definition -- and we note the Commission has explicitly concluded that it therefore did not need to rule on the appropriateness of one definition or another.

"We welcome the Commission's findings that Royal Caribbean and P&O Princess operate in the UK as essentially complementary businesses -- one offering a US-oriented product, the other a predominantly UK-oriented product -- and that by combining we will in no way reduce the product choice available to consumers. This contrasts starkly with the situation for Carnival and P&O Princess: they are each other's largest and most direct competitors in both the UK and Germany, hence the intense scrutiny now being given to Carnival's hostile bid by the regulators in Brussels.

"Indeed, today's clear and straightforward announcement by the Competition Minister also marks a contrast with statements from Carnival Corporation, acknowledging the possibility that it might well be forced to sell off key assets if it wants to proceed with its hostile bid for P&O Princess. Nothing could better underline the fallacy of Carnival's erroneous -- but oft-repeated -- claim that 'there is no material difference in the regulatory analysis' of the two transactions.

"It now remains for us to do everything possible to assist the Federal Trade Commission with its continuing investigation into our merger's implications for the US market. We are optimistic that they too will recognize the substantive difference between the two transactions."

1. Royal Caribbean's agreed merger with P&O Princess Cruises was investigated and cleared by the competition authorities in Germany in January. The investigation by the UK Competition Commission was instigated at the recommendation of the Office of Fair Trading on January 29th.

2. No other national competition authorities within Europe are expected to review Royal Caribbean's transaction, nor does it reach the size threshold that would trigger an inquiry by the EU competition authorities in Brussels.

3. The Federal Trade Commission in Washington launched an investigation into the merger in January, which is running in parallel with an investigation into the competing hostile bid for P&O Princess Cruises from Carnival Corporation. No firm timetable has been announced by the FTC but its findings are generally expected before the end of the summer.

LONDON, June 19 - P&O Princess Cruises welcomes today's decision by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to approve the proposed combination of P&O Princess with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Peter Ratcliffe, Chief Executive of P&O Princess, said, "We are pleased with the Secretary of State's decision to approve our agreed combination with Royal Caribbean. We continue to work with the Federal Trade Commission in the United States as they conduct their review of the transaction."

The proposed combination with Royal Caribbean remains subject to review by the Federal Trade Commission in the United States and to approval by P&O Princess shareholders. The proposed offer by Carnival Corporation for P&O Princess remains subject to review by the Federal Trade Commission in the United States and approval by the European Commission.

The directors of P&O Princess accept responsibility for the information contained in this announcement. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the directors of P&O Princess (who have taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is the case), the information contained herein for which they accept responsibility is in accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import of such information.

LONDON, June 19 - The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in the UK today announced the clearance of the proposed merger between Royal Caribbean and P&O Princess. Carnival notes that the DTI's decision states that "The existence of a wider holiday market, and the availability of cruises of types other than those operated by POPC and RCCL, constrained those companies' actions and commercial freedom, whether or not they were regarded as being in the same market."

Carnival has maintained throughout the process that as the whole European cruise market represents less than one per cent. of the European leisure travel market and less than 4.0 per cent. and 1.2 per cent. of the UK and German leisure travel markets respectively, neither of these deals should raise competitive concerns in Europe.

The Royal Caribbean/P&O Princess combination has now been cleared in both the UK and Germany. These are the only two countries examined in the European Commission's review and both the Carnival and Royal Caribbean combinations are similarly positioned in these countries. Carnival therefore believes that there is no reason why its combination with P&O Princess should not gain European regulatory approval, consistent with the EU's policy to support national competition authorities and to ensure the equal application of competition law across the EEA.

Both transactions also remain under review by the Federal Trade Commission in the US, with decisions expected on a similar timetable to the European Commission's review.

"We have said all along that both of these deals should be cleared in all jurisdictions," said Micky Arison, CEO of Carnival Corporation. "From a regulatory perspective they are similarly placed and the UK decision today confirms that our offer for P&O Princess should be cleared by the European Commission. When all regulatory approvals have been obtained, I look forward to taking this deal back to the ultimate decision makers, the P&O Princess shareholders."

Terms used in this announcement have the same meaning as in the announcement dated 7 February 2002.

MIAMI, June 18 - Carnival Cruise Lines announced today that it will provide $1.2 million over the next seven years to the Florida Literacy Coalition with the funds specifically earmarked for two initiatives under the coalition umbrella -- Governor Jeb Bush's Just Read, Florida! program and the Governor's Family Literacy Initiative. The funds Carnival is donating are being generated via tax rebates the cruise line is slated to receive over the next several years under the state of Florida's Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund Program as a result of a new call center Carnival is opening in Miramar, Fla.

The donation announcement was made at the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee today during a press conference where Gov. Bush shared details of the Just Read, Florida! initiative, and Carnival President Bob Dickinson affirmed the cruise line's commitment to the program. An initial $100,000 installment from Carnival, which was presented to Gov. Bush today, will fund "I'm a Reader Kits" that will be distributed to new parents statewide beginning in September under the Just Read, Florida! program. Thereafter, Carnival will make annual donations through 2008.

"It is important to the economy of Florida and to the quality of life of its citizens that every child and adult in the state has an opportunity to develop reading competency," Dickinson said during the news conference. "The Just Read, Florida! program is a grass-roots-level initiative that is creating literacy opportunities for families throughout the state. Gov. Bush has called for a strong commitment from the business community to support his literacy initiatives, and Carnival Cruise Lines has responded with a $1.2 million donation."

The Just Read, Florida! initiative commits the state to meeting the goal of ensuring that all Florida students read at or above grade level by 2012. The program uses research-based methods that emphasize the five important components of reading: fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, phonetic awareness and phonics.

The Governor's Family Literacy Initiative funds community-based programs and raises statewide awareness of how Floridians can assist in the family literacy movement by making book donations and volunteering in local schools and the community.

Carnival has been a supporter of the governor's literacy initiatives as a member of the Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation and the Cruise Line Coalition, and hosted a "Fascination with Reading" event aboard its "Fun Ship" Fascination in May 2001 which raised more than $1 million.

Carnival's new Miramar call center, scheduled to open in July, is expected over time to create 400 new jobs in Broward County with annual state tax rebates tied to the number of newly-created job positions.

The cruise line's headquarters, employing approximately 2,700 Floridians, will remain in Miami-Dade County. The 460,000-square-foot facility and accompanying 17 acres in west Miami-Dade are owned by Carnival. The company leases an adjoining seven acres for additional parking. The need for more square footage to accommodate the company's growing employee base and the fact that many of Carnival's existing employees reside in Broward County prompted the company's decision to open a call center in Miramar.

"We have said from the outset that any tax rebate monies received from the state as a result of our Broward call center would be given to Florida charities," said Dickinson. "Gov. Bush's Just Read, Florida! initiative and other literacy programs are a terrific cause designed to enhance the lives of our state's citizens and we are very pleased to be earmarking these dollars for such a worthwhile endeavor."

Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines is the world's largest cruise operator, carrying more than 2.5 million passengers annually and operating 16 ships on voyages of three to 16 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Canada/New England, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, Bermuda and Europe. The company has five new ships under contract, valued at $2.2 billion and scheduled to enter service over the next two-and-a-half years.

MIAMI, June 17, 2002 Norwegian Cruise Line announced it has partnered with Showtime Pictures to provide onboard photography services for passengers.

NCL will provide more options for guests through the use of digital photography, which allows prints to be reproduced on key chains, buttons and mugs, as well as traditional photo albums. The flexibility of custom packages based on specific destinations and the ships, allow for photographs to be digitally mastered in 72 different designs, including converting photos to canvas images.

We are delighted with this new relationship, and believe this partnership will further illustrate Freestyle Cruising by offering passengers more choices in how they want their vacation memories to be captured, said Andy Stuart, senior vice president of marketing and sales for NCL.

Because Showtime Pictures only uses digital equipment, NCL can offer guests the benefit of seeing their photograph immediately instead of waiting hours before viewing them in the gallery. Also, passengers will have the opportunity to e-mail photos directly from the ship.

We admire NCLs innovative nature and see the flexibility and choice offered by our digital photography as a good match for the ground breaking Freestyle Cruising product aboard NCL ships. We are looking forward to adding to Freestyle Cruising with innovation in the area of on board photography, Kemal Arin, President of Showtime Pictures says.

Showtime Pictures has 37 locations worldwide at popular tourist highlights including Elvis Pressleys Graceland, NASA Space Center Houston, and the Eiffel Tower Experience in Las Vegas.

Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line is an international cruise company and industry innovator that currently operates a fleet of nine ships sailing to more than 140 ports around the world. NCL plans to take delivery of its newest member the Norwegian Dawn, a 2,200-passenger sister ship to Norwegian Star, in December of this year.

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, Fla., (305) 436-0866; visit NCL's web site at www.ncl.com.

PRINCESS TO OFFER FIRST ANTARCTIC CRUISE IN 2003
Cruise Line Now Sails to All Seven Continents *** New Itinerary Brings Added Dimension to Royal Princess' 2003-04 South America/Africa Program

Royal Princess sails to new waters for Princess in December 2003, as the line unveils its first Antarctic itinerary. The cruise is part of Royal Princess' extensive Exotics program for 2003-04, featuring South America and Africa.

The dramatic 24-day South Atlantic/Antarctica/South America cruise departs December 19 and travels between Cape Town and Santiago, taking in some of the least-visited areas in the Atlantic and Southern Oceans along the way, with two days of cruising among the islands and channels of the southernmost continent.

"This Antarctic cruise will be a milestone for us as it will bring the seventh and final continent to our extensive lineup of worldwide itineraries," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of customer service and sales. "I know many of our loyal past passengers are eager to add this incredible destination to their list of experiences."

The itinerary begins with an overnight in Cape Town, followed by a cruise around the Cape of Good Hope. In the South Atlantic, the ship will call at Tristan da Cunha, an intriguing outpost that is home to fewer than 300 inhabitants. Royal Princess will then sail among the islands and channels surrounding the Antarctic Peninsula, including Elephant Island, Esperanza Station, Deception Island, Intercurrence Island and Sigma Island (subject to weather and ice conditions). The ship will then head north to call at Port Stanley on the Falkland Islands, then on to Cape Horn and Ushuaia in Argentina. Other calls, as the ship heads north along the Chilean coast to Santiago, include cruising the Beagle Channel, Punta Arenas, Puerto Montt, and cruising Seno Eyre Fjord.

Royal Princess will also offer a full schedule of other Exotic sailings, including:

West Africa
Prior to her groundbreaking Antarctic cruise, Royal Princess will sail on a 24-day West Africa voyage from Athens to Cape Town. Princess was the first major cruise line to offer an in-depth exploration of West Africa, and is still one of the only companies giving passengers the opportunity to discover these rarely visited ports. The itinerary travels to Malta, Tunis, Gibraltar, Casablanca, Agadir (Morocco), Dakar (Senegal), Abidjan (Cote d'Ivoire), Accra (Ghana), Lome (Togo), Walvis Bay and Luderitz (Namibia).

Cape Horn/Strait of Magellan
A Princess favorite, this 14-day cruise takes passengers to the best of Chile, Argentina and Uruguay, calling at a number of exciting ports and cruising by some of the earth's most majestic scenery. The Buenos Aires to Santiago itinerary visits Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), Cape Horn (cruising), Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Beagle Channel (glacier cruising), Punta Arenas (Strait of Magellan), the Chilean Fjords (cruising), Seno Eyre Fjord (glacier cruising), and Puerto Montt in Chile's Lake District. Royal Princess offers four departures on this route between January 12 and February 23.

Andes/South America
On March 8 Royal Princess heads from Santiago to Ft. Lauderdale, reprising a popular itinerary that gives passengers the opportunity to stay overnight in several ports, plus visit such legendary destinations as the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. Calls include La Serena and Arica in Chile; Pisco, Peru; overnight stays in Lima, Peru and Quito, Ecuador; a transit through the Panama Canal; and the Caribbean ports of Cartagena and Aruba.

The Amazon
The world's largest river is the star attraction on Regal Princess' unique jungle cruise adventure. The ship's Amazon River itinerary, a 12-day sailing between Ft. Lauderdale and Manaus, combines three ports along this mighty waterway -- Santarem, Boca da Valeria and Manaus (overnight) -- with the Caribbean fun spots of Devil's Island, Trinidad, Dominica and Tortola.

For those who see the Amazon as only a start to their exploration, Royal Princess also offers a 21-day Amazon/Africa/Mediterranean voyage featuring a new Manaus to Rome itinerary. Passengers will not only cruise through the mysterious Amazon, but will then continue on for calls at Recife (Brazil), Dakar (Senegal), Agadir (Morocco), Casablanca (for Marrakech), Gibraltar, Alicante (Spain), Barcelona, Cannes, and Livorno (for Florence/Pisa).

Passengers can also opt to extend their vacation by combining a Cape Horn cruise with a four-day land tour featuring overnight stays in Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls for an 18-day land/sea adventure.

Early booking fares for Royal Princess' Exotics sailings begin at $1,795 for reservations made before July 4, 2003. Early booking rates for the Antarctic sailing begin at $3,695.

More information about Princess' Exotics cruise schedules and fares is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS.

Second Passenger Flies FREE on Selected Costa Cruises

For a limited time only, Costa is offering you this incredible offer. Passengers booking a Costa air inclusive cruise package by June 30, 2002 on any of the following CostaAtlantica and CostaVictoria Fall sailings will receive FREE air for the second passenger in the stateroom.

Choose from these sailings.

Aboard the highly-acclaimed CostaAtlantica.
December 1 & 15, 2002 for 7 nights to the Eastern Caribbean Ft Lauderdale, San Juan, St Thomas/St john, Catalina Island, Casa de Campo, Nassau, Ft Lauderdale. Oceanview staterooms from $899*.
December 8, 2002 for 7 nights to the Western Caribbean Ft Lauderdale, Key West, Cozumel, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Ft Lauderdale. Oceanview staterooms from $899*.

Aboard the 5-Star CostaVictoria.
December 1, 2002 for 10 nights to the Southern Caribbean Ft Lauderdale, San Juan, St Thomas/St John, Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, St Maarten, Ft Lauderdale from $999*.
December 11, 2002 for 11 nights to the Panama Canal Ft Lauderdale, Grand Cayman, Aruba, Cartagena, Colon, Puerto Limon, Cozumel, Ft Lauderdale from $1,079*.

For reservations see a Travel Agent or call 1-800-GO-COSTA and request fare code A2.

*Rates are in US dollars, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, Andiamo Rates category 4. Promotion is based on double occupancy, Andiamo rates from category 4 and higher, including suites. 2nd passenger flies free from all Costa US and Canadian gateways. New individual bookings only. Government taxes ranging from $53.95 to $60.10 additional per person. Offer may be withdrawn without notice. Not combinable with any other promotional offer or coupon. Valid for US and Canadian residents only. Capacity controlled. Subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Ships Registry: Italy.

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Celebrate Independence Day Aboard the Queen Mary

LONG BEACH, Calif, June 19 - The Queen Mary is once again the place to spend the July 4th weekend. The annual celebration kicks off Thursday, July 4th, with a carnival in the adjacent Queen Mary Events Park through the weekend. July 4th Carnival hours are 12 noon -- 11 p.m. Weekend Carnival hours on July 5th, 6th and 7th are 1 p.m. -- 11 p.m. The fireworks show on the 4th, the only one this summer due to cruise terminal construction, will begin at 9 p.m. Although the fireworks are visible from across the harbor, the pyrotechnics are choreographed to a musical soundtrack that can only be heard aboard the ship accompanying the fireworks exploding overhead. From 6 p.m. until Midnight, there will be a DJ and dancing under the stars in Club Verandah.

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FROM IPANEMA TO WAITOMO, CRYSTAL CRUISES CREATES MORE THAN 100 SHORE PROGRAMS FOR 2003 WORLD CRUISE
Luxury Line's Eighth-Consecutive World Cruise Explores Southern Hemisphere

LOS ANGELES, June 19, 2002 - Snorkel the pristine reef of Ningaloo, explore the eerie limestone caves of Marakoopa, journey through the wildlife and rugged scenery of Patagonia, discover the Maoi of Rapa Nui, or trek the unspoiled frontierland of Kakadu. The intrigue and adventure of these and other secrets of the Southern Hemisphere are revealed in more than 100 optional shore excursions and overnight expeditions offered during Crystal Cruises' 2003 World Cruise aboard Crystal Symphony.

The 104-day "Wonders of the Southern Seas" departs Ft. Lauderdale on January 19, 2003, and visits 37 ports of call in 15 countries, including the line's first-ever exploration of Antarctica by sea, and circumnavigations of South America and Australia.

"Our guests share a deep appreciation for the world, its people and cultures, and its geography. We have created a collection of shore programs - customized from a few hours to several days - designed to appeal to their sense of adventure and provide them with unparalleled cultural immersion in some of the world's most treasured destinations," says Craig Laforest, Crystal Cruises' director, land programs.

From mountains, glaciers and volcanoes to beaches, rainforests and wildlife preserves, Crystal's 2003 World Cruise shore program opens the imagination to a world of discovery. Some highlights along the "Wonders of the Southern Seas" route include:

- Beachcomb along Ipanema and Copacabana (from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

- Study Blumenau's colonial German heritage (from Porto Belo, Brazil, a Crystal maiden call)

- Seek out Punta Tombo's coastal wildlife in Patagonia (from Puerto Madryn, Argentina)

- Journey into Tierra del Fuego by chartered steam train and explore the world's southernmost national park (from Ushuaia, Argentina)

- Fly over Antarctica in a chartered aircraft (from Punta Arenas, Chile)

- Discover the archeological mysteries of Easter Island, Chile, one of the most isolated places on Earth, best known for its massive stone "moai," the ominous Te Pito Te Kura

- Swim, snorkel, or canoe the turquoise lagoons of French Polynesia (from Huahine and Raiatea, Society Islands, both Crystal maiden calls)

- Visit the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves - one of New Zealand's top attractions (from Auckland, New Zealand)

- Explore the limestone caves of Marakoopa and visit Launceston's Wildlife Park in Tasmania (from Launceston, Tasmania, a Crystal maiden call)

- Drink in Australia's premier Barossa wine country (from Adelaide, Australia)

- Fly to the World Heritage site of Kakadu National Park to view ancient Aboriginal art, as well as crocodiles, birdlife and other species in the tropical wetlands (from Darwin, Australia)

- Snorkel along the Ningaloo, one of the Indian Ocean's most pristine reefs (from Exmouth, Australia, a Crystal maiden call)

- Journey to Haleakala's 10,000 foot summit (from Lahaina, Hawaii)

World Voyages & Extended Land Programs

Crystal's 104-day World Cruise is a collection of five shorter World Voyages, ranging in length from 18 to 27 days, affording guests the opportunity to join the cruise in some of the world's most sophisticated and stylish cities - Buenos Aires, Valparaíso, Auckland, or Sydney. Each of these shorter passages features one of four Extended Land Programs, allowing for more in-depth exploration:

Incomparable Argentina; five nights from Buenos Aires. Explore both the Argentine and Brazilian Iguazú Falls National Parks. Visit the Yacutinga Wildlife Reserve in the Argentine rainforest. Discover the cosmopolitan beauty of Buenos Aires and learn the tango. Pricing: $3,275 per person, double occupancy.

Mysterious Easter Island; four nights from Valparaíso. Located off the coast of South America in the middle of the South Pacific, this archeological treasure has intrigued scientists and historians alike for generations. Combine the cultural hub of Santiago, seascapes of Viña del Mar and the haunting allure of Rapa Nui's colossal stone "moai" on an adventurous and intimate look at Chile and Easter Island. Pricing: $2,700 per person, double occupancy.

New Zealand Landscapes; four nights from Auckland. Journey through secluded coves, mystic fjords and snowcapped peaks of New Zealand. Explore Aukland, the "City of Sails" and the rugged coastal region of the Coromandel Peninsula. Visit Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and cruise the Milford Sound. Pricing: $2,430 per person, double occupancy.

Sydney to the Outback: A Taste of Australia; three nights from Sydney. Adventure into Australia's dramatic Outback. Spend the night at the Sails in Desert Resort at Ayers Rock. Learn mystic tales of Aboriginal mythology. Take to the skies by helicopter for an aerial view of the Olgas. Pricing: $2,400 per person, double occupancy.

"World Value Fares" for the full 2003 World Cruise start at $41,455 per person, double occupancy, and include round-trip First or Business Class air transportation (depending on stateroom category) from a Crystal Cruises North American air gateway city, private car airport/ship/home transfers, pre-paid gratuities, $1,000 shipboard spending credit, luxury overnight hotel accommodations and gala bon voyage party in Ft. Lauderdale the night before embarkation, as well as overnight programs and exclusive events in key destinations, such as Buenos Aires and Sydney. Crystal Cruises offers savings of 3.5 percent if payment in full is received 180 days prior to departure.

Cruise fares for the shorter World Voyages begin at $7,610 per person, double occupancy, and include a complimentary pre-cruise, hotel package. Complimentary air transportation is also included for guests who sail for two or more of the World Voyages. Guests booking a single World Voyage option can also take advantage of specially priced airfares.

The 50,000-ton, 940-guest Crystal Symphony is one of the most spacious and luxurious sailing vessels in 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. In addition to a full-service fitness center and lavish spa, the Six-Star rated line features grand lounges, 24-hour Internet and e-mail access with Computer University@Sea, the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino, expansive decks, two pools, award-winning cuisine and entertainment and exquisitely appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs.

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary 2003 World Cruise brochure, or for any worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.

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America's Oldest Cruise Line Back in the Water; Delta Queen Steamboat Company Launches Mississippi Queen

NEW ORLEANS, June 19 - America's oldest cruise line is officially back in business, thanks to new owners, Delaware North Companies, a global leader in hospitality, food service and entertainment, who successfully bid for the company in a much anticipated May auction.

The sailing of the Mississippi Queen on June 19 is its first official cruise with Delaware North Companies as the owners.

At a news conference today at Robin Street Wharf in New Orleans, Delaware North Companies announced a firm commitment to maintain the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. headquarters in New Orleans, its homeport for more than 15 years. The company also plans to retain as many of the former Delta Queen associates as possible.

The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., which includes the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen paddlewheelers, hosts up to 30,000 visitors annually in New Orleans and other ports regularly visited by the steamboats. It is estimated that the annual economic impact on the New Orleans region will be more than $250 million.

In May, Delaware North Companies (DNC), a global leader in hospitality, retail and food-service management, threw the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. a lifeline--successfully bidding for the company. To celebrate, DNC hosted a Dixieland-style festival on the banks of the wharf in conjunction with the news conference, entertaining community and civic leaders, welcoming new employees and reaffirming the company's commitment to the New Orleans community as well as other ports of call. The first official cruise under the Delaware North ownership is planned for June 19 on the Mississippi Queen.

"We're excited about the purchase and truly impressed by the talented associates and local management. Our hope is to preserve the company's most valuable asset -- its employees -- as well as the Delta Queen Steamboat Co.'s rich heritage," said Dennis Szefel, Delaware North Companies Hospitality and Entertainment Group president. "We look forward to bringing Delaware North's innovation and creativity to enhance its operations."

The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. will operate as a Delaware North subsidiary under the company's Hospitality and Entertainment business.

Since their inception in 1890, these paddlewheelers have been part of America's fiber, whether it was transporting guests along the country's waterways, serving as U.S. Navy ferries in World War II, or hosting dignitaries such as three U.S. presidents and Princess Margaret.

Today each steamboat offers various routes and historic journeys. Travelers enjoy tales about the paddlewheel's history, culture and river lore; calliope concerts; sing-alongs; pilot house tours; engine room viewings; culinary demonstrations and more. Plus, guests have an opportunity to explore national treasures, such as river towns, antebellum plantations, Civil War battlefields, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, the St. Louis Gateway Arch, national and regional museums -- just to name a few.

"Maintaining headquarters in New Orleans certainly demonstrates our commitment to the local community and its economy," concluded Szefel. "However, we hope to positively influence the economic vitality of all the communities in the various ports along our waterways through increased tourism. Delaware North will be a good steward to the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., its employees, its communities and America's travelers."

About Delta Queen Steamboat Co.

The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. is America's oldest continuously operating cruise line, offering 3- to 11-night river cruises throughout the Heartland and Old South. The company, which traces its roots to 1890, boasts authentic steam-powered paddlewheelers Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen. These vessels cruise on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers, and on the Intracoastal Waterway in Louisiana and Texas.

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CARNIVAL LEGEND: FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

MIAMI (06/19/02) - With a high-tech game room, expansive indoor and outdoor play areas, a corkscrew water slide, and dining options that include special children's menus and 24-hour pizza and ice cream, kids of all ages are sure to have a blast aboard Carnival Legend, Carnival Cruise Lines' newest "Fun Ship" set to debut Aug. 24, 2002.

Carnival Legend's numerous family-oriented amenities are the latest additions to the line's complimentary fleetwide "Camp Carnival" program, which caters to the 350,000 kids expected to sail aboard the "Fun Ships" this year.

"Carnival Legend, with its spacious, state-of-the-art facilities, enthusiastic youth counselors and full schedule of fun-filled activities, will offer the ultimate family vacation and further enhance Carnival's position as family cruise leader," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

Expansive Kids-Only Facilities
The focal point of Carnival Legend's "Camp Carnival" program will be Noah's Ark, an 1,800-square-foot recreation center encompassing three distinct areas - an all-ages play area stocked with a variety of toys and games, a computer center featuring the latest educational and video game software, and an arts-and-crafts lab with spin and sand art and candy-making machines. A series of "tunnels" will connect the three areas, offering kids a unique way to travel between the different venues. Located a deck below Noah's Ark is the Gigabytes Arcade, a high-tech video game room featuring the latest video and arcade games.

Carnival Legend will also house an outdoor play area with a schooner-shaped playhouse, jungle gyms and other playground equipment. Four swimming pools, including a children's wading pool, and a cascading water slide will be featured, as well.

Kid-Friendly Dining Options, Spacious Accommodations
Like other Carnival Legend guests, kids will enjoy a wide variety of delicious dining options - everything from 24-hour pizza and ice cream and freshly grilled hot dogs and hamburgers in the poolside Unicorn Café to special children's menus featuring chicken nuggets, pepperoni pizza, and other favorites available in Truffles, the ship's formal restaurant. Children's menus will also include games such as mazes, tic-tac-toe and word finds to keep kids entertained during mealtimes. As part of a new pilot program, kids will have the option of either dining with their parents in the main restaurant or with the youth counselors in the Unicorn Café each night.

Carnival Legend will also feature a special turn-down service providing kids with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies the first and last night of their voyage, along with the "Fountain Fun Card," which, for a one-time fee, provides guests under age 21 with unlimited soft drinks for the duration of their cruise.

Continuing Carnival's tradition of offering some of the largest staterooms in contemporary cruising, Carnival Legend will feature a wide range of accommodation categories, including several levels of balconied staterooms and suites. Many of Carnival Legend's 1,062 staterooms will accommodate up to four guests, while more than two dozen others will be interconnecting - perfect for large families or gatherings.

Morning-'til-Night Activities, Convenient Babysitting Services
From jewelry-making and photography workshops and late-night movies and pool parties to scavenger hunts, talent shows and finger-painting sessions, kids sailing aboard Carnival Legend will enjoy a wide variety of fun, supervised activities morning-til-night. Activities, which will be conducted by the ship's highly trained youth staff, will take place from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and divided into four different age groups - toddlers (age 2-5), juniors (6-8), intermediates (9-11) and teens (12-15). Additionally, older teens (age 16-18) will have their own activities schedule coordinated by the ship's social hosts.

When parents want a night to themselves, babysitting will also be available from 10 pm to 3 am. Conducted in a "slumber party" format in the Noah's Ark play room and conducted by the youth staff, babysitting will cost $6 per hour for the first child and $4 per hour for each additional child in the same family. Stroller rentals, featuring single and double strollers available for use
both aboard ship and during port calls, will be available, as well. The cost
will be $6 per day and $25 per week.

Exciting European, Caribbean, Bermuda Itineraries
Carnival Legend is scheduled to enter service Aug. 24 with a 12-day Northern European voyage round-trip from Harwich (near London) followed by a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Harwich Sept. 5 and arriving New York Sept. 20.

From New York, the ship will operate two- and three-day cruises-to-nowhere and 11-day Canada/New England sailings then sail on six-day Bermuda cruises from Baltimore and Philadelphia in October. Carnival Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to sail on a two-day cruise-to-nowhere then operate "exotic" eight-day Caribbean voyages from that port Nov. 10 - April 19, 2003.

Following these sailings, the ship will launch a one-of-a-kind eight-day Caribbean cruise program from New York May 13, 2003. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.

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HOLLAND AMERICA'S MS NOORDAM VISITS PANAMA CANAL ON EXCITING NINE-DAY CRUISES FROM FT. LAUDERDALE
Cruises Depart December 4 and 13, 2002

Seattle, June 18, 2002 - Holland America Line's premium cruise ship ms Noordam will sail from Ft. Lauderdale on two nine-day cruises to the Panama Canal in December. The Sunfarer cruises also feature visits to Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, where guests have the opportunity to take an excursion on a rain forest aerial tram, and to George Town, Grand Cayman to swim with stingrays or view thousands of sea turtles.

The highlight of the Sunfarer cruises is the visit to the fascinating and historic Panama Canal. The ms Noordam will spend a day in Colon, Panama, and guests will have the option of taking tours of the Gatun Locks, one of three sets of locks in the canal, or the Chagres River.

"Our Sunfarer cruises provide a Panama Canal experience with the ease of embarking and debarking from the same city," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Plus, they are very good cruising values with extensive port exploration."

Departing December 4 from Fort Lauderdale, the first of two Sunfarer cruises calls at George Town, Grand Cayman; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Colon, Panama; and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. The second sailing departs December 13 and replaces Half Moon Cay with Nassau, Bahamas. In Costa Rica the Rain Forest Aerial Tram, a unique ecotourism and research facility, awaits. This tram takes visitors on a fascinating tour through the rain forest canopy and its hanging gardens of plants and animals hidden at the tops of tall tropical trees. The canopy is home to two-thirds of all rain forest species. Other shore excursions in Costa Rica include a visit to San Jose in the country's interior, sightseeing in the historic and beautiful Limon area, or taking a tour to the Cahuita and Puerto Vargas National Park, home to a variety of wildlife.

Grand Cayman holds the excitement of scuba diving or a trip on a Nautilus semi-submersible to view the beautiful clear blue waters in a spacious, air-conditioned underwater observatory. Alternately, guests may choose a visit to the Stingray Sandbar where they may enter the water and feed, snorkel and swim with the friendly Southern Stingrays. For those who prefer land tours, a drive of Cayman Island is available that includes a visit to the famous Turtle Farm. At the Turtle Farm visitors will see thousands of green sea turtles, from hatchlings to 650-pound adults. Fares for these exciting cruises start at just $969 per person, double occupancy.

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

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PRINCESS PASSENGERS ENJOY FLAVORS OF ALASKA
At Sea and on Land, Company Serves Up Opportunities to Savor Unique Dining Options

This year more than ever, Princess passengers aren't just seeing Alaska, they're tasting it. Chefs in both the galleys at sea and kitchens ashore are working their magic to create flavorful dishes that reflect the culinary delights of this magnificent state. Featuring fresh fish, unique, savory meats and an assortment of seafood specialties, Princess offers a mouth-watering way to truly experience the 49th state.

With a new onboard dinner menu, poolside fish barbeque, and Glacier Bay buffet, passengers have a variety of options this summer for enjoying these Alaskan specialties. In addition, guests in one of Princess' many balcony staterooms can order a special Glacier Bay champagne breakfast to further enhance their cruise through this natural wonder. On shore, the company's five premier wilderness lodges and exclusive rail cars serve up their own Signature Alaskan Cuisine as well.

"Princess is committed to providing our passengers with a vacation that allows them to fully explore all aspects of the destination they are visiting," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of customer service and sales. "In Alaska, our exceptional chefs provide many wonderful opportunities for guests to discover what this land has to offer the palate."

Chef's Alaskan Dinner -- In keeping with Princess' commitment to offering flavorful local specialties, the line's ships are serving a new Chef's Alaskan Dinner during one evening of each seven-night cruise. Entrees include Fresh Auke Bay Halibut, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Chicken a la Kiev and Rack of Venison. Alaskan Silver Salmon is always available throughout each Alaskan cruise, featuring fresh filets from Ketchikan that are loaded aboard each week when the ship visits that port. This special menu also offers local appetizers and soups, such as Alaska Rock Fish Chowder, Pioneer Lentil Soup with Caribou Sausage and Cook Inlet Crab Cakes.

Outdoor Alaskan BBQ -- Upon departure from one of the ports of call, passengers will be treated to a fish barbeque at the ships' poolside grills. The festive event features grilled shrimp and crab cakes accompanied by regional entertainment. Guests will also find halibut or salmon sandwiches as additional menu items at the grill throughout each Alaska sailing.

Glacier Bay "Taste of Alaska" Buffet -- When the ships visit Glacier Bay National Park, the highlight of all Gulf of Alaska sailings, the onboard buffet in the 24-hour Horizon Court will feature a special "Taste of Alaska" menu, offering hot and cold smoked salmon carving stations, crab salad, halibut and salmon grilled "a la minute," as well as other tastes from the "Great Land."

Glacier Bay Balcony Breakfast -- A special champagne breakfast menu has been developed especially for balcony stateroom service, available one day only aboard all ships that sail on Princess' Gulf of Alaska route. The Glacier Bay balcony breakfast includes a chilled half bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne, accompanied by a basket of warm homemade pastries, fresh wild forest berries with crème fraiche, smoked Copper River Salmon with lingonberry cream cheese and toasted lemon boula bread, and Alaskan crab and potato quiche with marinated tomato and fontina cheese gratin. This unique breakfast option may be ordered for a $25 charge.

Signature Alaskan Cuisine -- Princess' five exclusive wilderness lodges and Midnight Sun Express railcars offer their own distinct Alaska flavors. Each serves a selection of special dishes designated as Princess' Signature Alaskan Cuisine -- from Bering Sea Bouillabaisse at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge to Reindeer Osso Bucco at the new Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge. Passengers may also enjoy such unusual offerings as Elk Burgers and the Midnight Sun Express' very own award-winning Reindeer Chili. Fresh Alaskan salmon dishes are offered on most menus as well.

Finally, for passengers who want to bring a taste of Alaska back with them, Princess has entered into a special agreement with Juneau's Taku Smokeries, enabling guests to place an order on the ship to have the company's famous smoked salmon delivered right to their homes.

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SEABOURN 'GRAND VOYAGES' ADD MORE FREE SHORE EXPERIENCES
Combined Cruises Also Offer Savings of 40 to 50 Percent

LOS ANGELES, June 5 - Crystal Cruises has published its 2003 Cruise Atlas unveiling a polished and glowing new look that defines the essence of the award-winning luxury cruise line. With photography that engages the senses and copy that awakens the imagination, the 145-page Atlas effortlessly invites the reader on a journey of discovery into the genuine beauty of the Crystal experience.

The comprehensive brochure, the largest Crystal has ever published, chronicles the 70 itineraries for Crystal's fleet of three ships, including the new Crystal Serenity, set to debut in July 2003. From shipboard life to shoreside adventures, every detail of a Crystal vacation is presented in a clear, concise and easy-to-use format. The layout of the Atlas is as spacious and inviting as the ships themselves, setting the tone for the vacation that lies ahead.

"The sophisticated and contemporary new look of our Cruise Atlas more accurately depicts the inviting elegance of a Crystal cruise. Today, more than ever, people are looking for a relaxed and refined vacation experience, and our 2003 Cruise Atlas does an excellent job of communicating the approachable yet polished service, enriching experiences and warm, genuine hospitality for which the Crystal Cruises brand is known throughout the world," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing.

Crystal's 2003 program of cruises is by far the most comprehensive in the company's history with itineraries of seven to 104 days to all seven continents. The Atlas opens with a cruise calendar for each ship, conveniently noting the sailing's destination, savings opportunities and onboard programming themes. The individual destination sections feature the day-by-day cruise itinerary, map, and simplified fare chart, all easily accessible on the same page.

Descriptions of the luxury line's extended land programs, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, Crystal Society (membership of past guests) benefits program, penthouse and stateroom layouts, deck plans, general cruise information, air/sea fares and gateways, terms and conditions, and a "Ways to Save" page are also featured. The line's website, www.crystalcruises.com, is referenced on every page for more detailed information on ports of call and onboard programs.

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

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

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary copy of the 2003 Cruise Atlas, call 800-820-6663. This month the luxury line's website, www.crystalcruises.com, will feature an online version of the 2003 Cruise Atlas that can be downloaded, printed, or e-mailed.

-- Inaugural Season for Crystal Serenity -- Beginning on July 7, 2003, the new 1,080-guest ship increases the luxury line's capacity by more than 35 percent. Her first season begins with a tour of northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Baltic Sea, continues on a transatlantic crossing to debut in the U.S., sails the Caribbean/Panama Canal, and ends with an inaugural Holiday round trip cruise to Mexico from Los Angeles.

-- Crystal Symphony's 2003 World Cruise, the line's annual world odyssey, will depart from Ft. Lauderdale for the first time ever, and travel for 104 days featuring Antarctica's scenic icy waters, a circumnavigation of South America and Australia, and other exotic locales in North America and the South Pacific.

-- Ten maiden calls for the luxury line -- Huahine, French Polynesia; Launceston and Exmouth, Australia; Porto Belo, Brazil; Raiatea, Society Islands; Nagoya, Japan; St. John's, Newfoundland; Greenock, Scotland; Dikili, Turkey and Norfolk, Virginia.

-- For the first time, Crystal Cruises will trace the route of the legendary Vikings exploring their transatlantic voyage from London to New York, via Scotland, Denmark, Iceland, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Maine, the ship's first crossing into New York since her 1995 inaugural.

-- For the first time ever, two Crystal Cruises ships will sail European waters simultaneously. Along with Crystal Serenity's inaugural season's cruise, Crystal Symphony will offer a series of Baltic, northern European and British Isle cruises, as well as the line's first Black Sea cruise since 1999, for a total of 17 cruises in the region.

-- Fall Foliage Itineraries -- For the first time since 1997, Crystal Symphony is slated to sail on three itineraries between New York and Montreal. This will mark Crystal Cruises' first return to New York in six years.

-- Three Holiday Cruises -- The addition of Crystal Serenity to Crystal Cruises' fleet increases the luxury liner's capacity during the company's oft sold-out Holiday cruises. Travelers may choose among three ships to celebrate the season, in either the Caribbean or Mexico, conveniently round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale, New Orleans, and Los Angeles.

-- More New Orleans embarkations -- Five of Crystal Cruises' Panama Canal and Caribbean voyages will begin or end in the Crescent City, including a round-trip Caribbean holiday cruise.

-- Three ships through the Panama Canal -- In 2003, Crystal Cruises' three ships will embark on 13 journeys that traverse the Panama Canal, offering convenient coast-to-coast sailings from Ft. Lauderdale, Costa Rica, Los Angeles, San Francisco and New Orleans.

Other Destination Highlights:
-- China, Japan and the Pacific -- Crystal Harmony will again navigate the
     Far East, with 11- and 12-day cruises between Beijing and either
     Yokohama or Hong Kong.
-- Alaska/Canada round-trip with Perfect Harmony® fares -- Consistently
     popular, 10 Alaska cruises will sail round-trip from San Francisco next
     year. Two of the voyages will include Crystal Cruises' special "Value
     Collection" fares, with up to 2-for-1 savings.
-- Fall in South America -- For the first time ever, Crystal Symphony will
     sail South America in the fall to popular destinations such as
     Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Cape Horn and Patagonia.

WASHINGTON & MIAMI - Amtrak, Carnival Cruise Lines, and Holland America Line announced a special partnership that combines the pleasure of rail travel with the excitement of a cruise. Through this "Rail & Cruise" program, Amtrak is pleased to offer guests discounts of up to 25 percent when traveling by rail to and from a cruise on Carnival Cruise Lines or Holland America Line.

The "Rail & Cruise" program is available to guests who travel on Amtrak in conjunction with a wide variety of three- to 16-day Carnival and Holland America voyages departing now through December 31, 2003. The program offers Amtrak rail travel between 530 cities throughout the U.S. and Canada and the 18 North American homeports currently served by Carnival and Holland America.

"We are always looking for new ways to make train travel more than just a journey - to make it an adventure," said Barbara J. Richardson, Amtrak's executive vice president. "Our partnership with Carnival and Holland America does just that by offering our guests the unique experience of traveling by train and cruise ship--all in the same vacation."

"Consumers today are seeking affordable, hassle-free vacation experiences and this new program combines the fun and value of a "Fun Ship" cruise with convenient, moderately-priced rail transportation, while providing travel agents with an excellent sales and marketing opportunity," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

"The Amtrak agreement is a great complement to the nearly 400 North American cruise departures offered by Holland America Line," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president of marketing and sales, Holland America Line. "It provides added choices and value to consumers who are looking for a fun, relaxing and worry-free vacation with Holland America Line."

The "Rail & Cruise" program is perfect for vacationing families as it applies to both rail fare and accommodation charges, which means even greater savings for Amtrak's first class guests traveling in sleeping accommodations. In addition, the program discount may be combined with Amtrak's child or AAA Show Your Card and Save Program discounts. On Amtrak, up to two children may accompany each adult at 50 percent off the full fare. Toddlers younger than two travel for free. "Rail & Cruise" is available on most Amtrak routes excluding the Auto Train, Acela Express, and Metroliner services. With "Rail & Cruise," travel agents will receive discounts of up to 25 percent for their clients. The discount is determined by the date of travel. Certain restrictions and blackout dates apply.

LOS ANGELES, June 4, 2002 - Hand-making 100,000 chocolate truffles annually, serving 80 pounds of caviar per voyage, fluffing 3,920 feather pillows twice daily, shining 21,600 pairs of shoes a year, polishing more than 400 Riedel Bordeaux wine glasses each day and 3,600 feet of brass handrails three times every day and night are just a few of the details distinguishing the "World's Best Service" aboard Crystal Cruises. In Travel + Leisure's sixth annual service poll, on newsstands June 4, readers rated the luxury line number one at sea.

2002 marks the debut year for cruise lines' inclusion in the survey that asked tens of thousands of Travel + Leisure subscribers to select the hotels, spas and cruise lines that they believe treat customers the best. Crystal's service score outshines all cruise lines large and small, as well as spas throughout the world, putting it in an enviable league with some of the world's most prestigious names in travel: The Mansion on Turtle Creek, Dallas; Canyon Ranch Health Resort, Tucson; Hotel Cipriani, Venice; The Peninsula, Hong Kong; The Oriental, Bangkok; and Ritz Carlton hotels and resorts worldwide.

"Being recognized for excellence in service is perhaps the best compliment any travel company can receive. And to hear it from the sophisticated readers of Travel + Leisure, some of the most well-traveled and discerning consumers, is the highest praise, and speaks to the consistency of our fleet no matter where we cruise in the world, whether on an eight- or 100-day itinerary," says Gregg L. Michel, president.

The basic tenet of Crystal's service philosophy is, either you are a person who serves a Crystal guest, or a person who serves a person who serves a Crystal guest. "It's not just the faces you see, but also the ones you don't see all working together," adds Michel.

Crystal's dominant presence at the top of nearly every industry consumer poll -- be it for cuisine, spa facilities and treatments, entertainment, destination, or overall experience -- continues to demystify some of the stereo-types of cruising, proving that a luxury experience that exceeds expectations and even surprises the most sophisticated of travelers can be found at sea.

A reputation as the world's best does not come without a sincere commitment to maintaining the highest service standards possible, and Crystal makes a significant investment in staff recruitment and training. European-trained staff is recruited from the continent's finest schools, hotels and restaurants. And all employees go through comprehensive training where they learn the Six-Star Crystal Basics, a 30-point credo for anticipating and fulfilling guests' needs.

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

In July 2003, the line will welcome its newest ship, the 68,000-ton, 1,080-guest Crystal Serenity, featuring a higher space-per-guest ratio than her sister ships. Plans include expanded areas for spa services and other athletic, cultural and intellectual pursuits. Within a range of luxury accommodations, the line will increase its number of penthouses and enlarge its deluxe staterooms with verandahs. Approximately 85% of its all outside staterooms and suites will offer private verandahs.

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure for any worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's Web site at www.crystalcruises.com.

MIAMI, June 4, 2002 - Consistently honored for its warm and attentive service, Celebrity Cruises has introduced an enhanced Captain's Club program featuring new pre-cruise privileges and onboard perks for repeat guests. The expanded, three-tiered program is designed to recognize Celebrity's most loyal guests with a variety of benefits based on the number of cruises they have experienced.

"Celebrity's Captain's Club program has always been designed to thank our members for their loyalty; our expanded program takes our commitment to them to the next level," said Ares Michaelides, senior vice president of Marketing and Brand Planning for Celebrity Cruises. "The enhanced program includes a number of exclusive benefits for our repeat guests, all designed to offer added convenience, value and personal attention."

"Classic": One to five cruises

To honor members in the "Classic" level, Celebrity offers a one-category upgrade, a custom air complimentary administrative request valued at $50 for domestic flights and $75 for international flights, pre-sailing dining reservations at one of Celebrity's elegant specialty restaurants (on Millennium-class vessels), a complimentary wine tasting, an exclusive golf clinic, an invitation to the Captain's Club cocktail party, a welcome amenity, gifts with purchase in the AquaSpa, and casino certificates. Members will continue to receive special offers in the quarterly members-only newsletter and will be invited to enjoy four annual Captain's Club Reunion Cruises.

To show appreciation for Captain's Club members who have completed one to five cruises and enrolled prior to September 1, 2002, Celebrity created the "Founder Classic" category, whose members will continue to receive all "Classic" category benefits, along with the additional benefit of priority embarkation and preferential disembarkation.

"Select": Six to 10 cruises

"Select" Captain's Club members will receive all the benefits of Classic category members, and will have the option of enjoying either the AquaSpa gifts with purchase offered to Classic level members or, depending on their preference, may instead receive additional casino certificates. Celebrity will also offer Select category members priority status for shore excursion waitlists, priority embarkation and preferential disembarkation, and a private onboard event, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour of such areas as the ship's galley, or state-of-the-art theater lighting booth and video editing room.

"Elite": 11 cruises and up

To show appreciation for its most loyal guests sailing on their 11th Celebrity cruise or above, Celebrity's "Elite" level offers a wide array of shipboard and shoreside Captain's Club privileges. In addition to the Classic and Select pre-cruise benefits, Elite members have the choice of enjoying the AquaSpa benefits offered to the Classic, Select or Elite level members with additional casino certificates. Elite Captain's Club members also will be offered special privileges, such as a customized Elite event, a surprise gift, and other benefits which vary by ship, but may include such perks as backstage tours and a private shipboard departure lounge with a continental breakfast.

Guests who have sailed with Celebrity at least once and are 18 years of age or older are eligible for membership. Up to two adults from the same household can become Captain's Club members for a one-time fee of $35. In order to obtain benefits and ensure onboard recognition, guests must include their membership information at the time of booking.

To enroll in Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club program or for further information, please call Celebrity's Captain's Club Desk at 1-800-760-0654. If calling from outside the U.S. or Canada, please call 1-316-554-5961, or visit us online at www.celebritycruises.com/captainsclub.

Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated and fastest-growing premium cruise line in the industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. The launch of Constellation in May brought the Celebrity fleet to nine ships. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.

Star Princess, which entered service just this March, is now poised to become the largest and most amenity-filled ship ever to cruise the Pacific basin. The 2,600-passenger vessel will be deployed on a series of diverse Asia/South Pacific sailings for the 2003-04 season, offering enriching discovery itineraries and a level of service and accommodations never before available in this region.

The 109,000-ton Star Princess will feature 12 Asia and South Pacific voyages on eight itineraries that feature 47 ports of call, including a new stop for the line: Adelaide, Australia. Passengers can choose from a series of Australia/New Zealand cruises that capture the beauty and adventure found "down under" or from a variety of Asia sailings that reach the far corners of this intriguing region. In addition, the ship will offer extended sailings that will take passengers between Asia and such destinations as Australia, Alaska and the Mediterranean. Guests can also choose to extend their vacation with Princess' popular cruisetours in China and Australia, giving passengers the opportunity to visit numerous inland destinations with four- to 10-day land tours that can be added to their cruise.

"There's never been a ship of this caliber sailing regularly in this part of the world," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of customer service and sales. "Based on the success of Grand Princess and Golden Princess in the Mediterranean, we know she will be a spectacular addition to our exotics program, bringing a standard of service as well as innovative options to Asia/South Pacific cruises that, until now, have never been available."

Australia/New Zealand -- Star Princess will sail on two 12-day voyages and four 14-day voyages that explore the wonders "down under" in Australia and New Zealand. Both itineraries sail between Sydney and Auckland, and feature calls in the Australian ports of Melbourne and Hobart (Tasmania), a cruise through New Zealand's Fjordland National Park, and stops at the New Zealand ports of Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington. The 14-day journey also features the new port of Adelaide, on the coast of South Australia. Here, passengers can enjoy visits to the Barossa Wine Valley, Cleland Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Island. Sailings run between November 26, 2003 and January 31, 2004.

Asia -- Star Princess begins her Pacific odyssey with a 19-day Alaska/Far East cruise from Seattle to Osaka on September 20. Passengers will discover the beauty of Alaska's main ports, plus little-known Dutch Harbor. Once across the Pacific they will visit Sapporo (Japan), Vladivostok, Pusan (South Korea) and Nagasaki. The ship then sails on a 12-day Orient/China voyage from Osaka to Beijing on October 10, followed by a 16-day Orient/Asia cruise from Beijing to Bangkok on October 22. Passengers will visit ports such as Nagasaki, Pusan, and Shanghai, plus Vladivostok and Salian on the 12-day cruise; and Hong Kong, Da Nang (Vietnam) and Singapore on the 16-day voyage.

Star Princess then heads "down under" with a 19-day voyage from Bangkok to Sydney, departing November 7. Passengers will enjoy discovering Asian treasures such as Singapore, the Thai island of Phuket, Kuala Lumpur and Bali, plus sailing around the western and southern coast of Australia, taking in rarely visited ports such as Perth, and the line's new call at Adelaide, on the way to Melbourne and Sydney.

The ship returns north with an 18-day Australia/Asia voyage from Sydney to Bangkok. The route around the Australian continent takes passengers to the Great Barrier Reef and the port of Darwin, followed by calls in Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City. This sailing departs February 14, 2004.

Asia/India/Mediterranean -- Star Princess' Pacific Rim season ends with a 30-day journey through a kaleidoscope of worlds, sailing from Bangkok to Venice, departing March 3, 2004. Passengers will travel through three continents with visits to Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Kuala Lampur, Cochin (India), Bombay, Salalah (Oman), Aqaba (for Petra, Jordan), Safaga (for Luxor/ Karnak, Egypt), the Suez Canal, Port Said (for Cairo/Giza, Egypt), Rhodes, Kusadasi and Istanbul.

Cruisetours -- Passengers can extend their Star Princess vacation with land/sea packages in China and Australia. Up to four land tour options in China and five in Australia make it easy to customize the perfect cruisetour vacation in which passengers can explore the interior sites of these fascinating countries in addition to their cruise.

Star Princess provides her passengers with the same unique design and innovative features that made her sister ships, Grand Princess and Golden Princess, two of the most popular cruise vessels sailing today. Among the special amenities are multiple dining and entertainment venues, an expanded youth center with activities for three age groups, the largest spa facility in the fleet offering the company's extensive new lineup of services, a 24-hour AOL Internet Café and a dedicated wedding chapel for Princess' exclusive wedding-at-sea program.

Like her sister ships, Star Princess features three main show lounges and three main dining rooms -- also Princess exclusives -- a swim-against-the-current pool, a nine-hole putting course, and a trademark nightclub/observation lounge set dramatically atop the rear of the vessel and accessible only by a glass-enclosed, moving "skywalk." The ship also offers more than 700 balcony cabins, another Princess trademark.

Early booking fares for Star Princess Exotics sailings begin at $1,895 for reservations made by July 4, 2003.

More information about Princess' Exotics schedules and fares is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS.

LOS ANGELES, June 3, 2002 - This September, luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is introducing two shortsix- and eight-dayMediterranean voyages aboard Crystal Symphony, marking its shortest ever Mediterranean cruises. The new eight-day itinerary departs Rome on Sept. 18 and spends two full days in Cannes, calls in Taormina, cruises by Korcula, and concludes with an overnight stay in Venice. The six-day cruise begins in Sept. 25 with an overnight stay in Venice and visits Dubrovnik and Corfu and concludes in Athens' port of Piraeus. With Europe Value Fares offering up to 60% savings, the voyages start at $2,045 per person, double occupancy.

"As most of our itineraries are 12 days or longer, these options offer a unique opportunity to sample Crystal for travelers who don't want to be away for more than a week," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing.

The Sept. 18 departure is also available as a 13-day cruise itinerary from Rome to Athens.

Former U.S. Ambassador and Deputy Senior Advisor to President Carter for Middle East Policy Marc Ginsberg, and Dr. Harm J. De Blij, former geography editor on "Good Morning America" are among the distinguished Crystal Visions Enrichment Program lecturers scheduled for these Mediterranean cruises.

Ashore, Crystal Cruises is offering an optional one- to three-night pre-cruise hotel stay in conjunction with the Sept. 18 departure from Rome and a post-cruise program in Athens with the Sept. 25 cruise, in luxury properties such as Parco dei Principi and the Athenaeum Inter-Continental. For guests wishing to further extend their stay in Greece, the luxury line offers "The Glories of Ancient Greece," a five-night extended land program featuring Athens' most famous landmarks; two nights in Thessaloniki, home to Mt. Olympus; renowned archeological sites at Pella; the monasteries of Meteora; and ancient Delphi's Temple of Apollo.

For a seamless travel experience, the luxury line offers an optional Air/Sea program from over 100 North American gateway cities and escorted transfers to and from the ship.

In addition to the Sept. 18 and 25 departures, Crystal Symphony's Europe season consists of 13 sailings: five Baltic Sea cruises, a British Isles sailing with a visit to Edinburgh during the Military Tattoo, a Northern Europe route, including Iceland, five Mediterranean voyages and a single trip in the Canary Islands.

Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary 2002 Europe brochure, or for any worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's Web site at www.crystalcruises.com.

Twelve Innovative Itineraries Aboard Seven Ships, Including the new Norwegian Dawn, Highlight NCL's 2003/2004 Caribbean Program

MIAMI, June 4, 2002 - From the lush rainforests of Belize to the pristine reefs of Roatan, Honduras to the shoreside bustle of Fort de France, Martinique, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers every kind of Caribbean experience in 2003/04, as the line embarks on the largest Caribbean deployment in its history.

Seven of NCL's newest and largest ships will offer 3-, 4-, 5-, and 7-day Caribbean voyages in 2003/04, with 12 innovative itineraries covering every sun-splashed corner of the Eastern, Southern and Western Caribbean, including the Bahamas. Under NCL's successful Homeland Cruising program, every Caribbean voyage departs roundtrip from a close-to-home U.S. port (Miami, New York, Port Canaveral or San Juan).

Also highlighting NCL's Caribbean service is the introduction of the 90,000-ton Norwegian Dawn, one of three NCL ships purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising, scheduled to debut this December. Norwegian Dawn will join Norwegian Majesty, Norwegian Sea, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Wind and the classic liner S/S Norway in the Caribbean in 2003.

"Although other regions continue to grow in popularity, the Caribbean remains the most sought-after cruise destination because of its diversity and fundamental appeal," said Andy Stuart, senior vice president of marketing and sales for NCL. "We're demonstrating our commitment to this fascinating region by deploying an unprecedented seven ships in the Caribbean and Bahamas in 2003."

Each of NCL's Caribbean-bound ships (except S/S Norway) features Freestyle Cruising, which offers guests the ultimate in relaxation at sea and the freedom to choose when, where and with whom they wish to dine.

NCL's 2003 Caribbean/Bahamas season is highlighted by:

NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Dawn, begins Caribbean cruising on January 4, 2003, offering alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages departing roundtrip from Miami through April 26, 2003. Eastern-bound sailings call at San Juan, St. Thomas, Tortola, B.V.I. and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private Bahamian island. Western itineraries visit Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.

Following a 14-day re-positioning cruise from Miami, Norwegian Dawn begins a groundbreaking series of seven-day sailings to the Bahamas and Florida departing roundtrip from New York. Ports of call on this innovative itinerary include Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay, Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, and guests have the additional option of embarking either in New York or Port Canaveral. Norwegian Dawn returns to Miami on November 8, 2003 to offer Eastern Caribbean itineraries through April 24, 2004.

Norwegian Sun, NCL's first ship purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising, offers Exotic Western Caribbean sailings departing roundtrip from Miami from January 4, 2003 to April 5, 2003. The itinerary visits Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico with two full days at sea.

The Norwegian Sun series resumes a traditional Western Caribbean itinerary on October 12, 2003 through March 21, 2004 visiting either Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.

NCL's Norwegian Sky, sister ship to Norwegian Sun, offers alternating, seven-day Deep Southern Caribbean and Exotic Southern Caribbean voyages from January 5, 2003 to April 13, 2003. Both routes depart roundtrip from San Juan and visit the Caribbean's most exotic and less-frequented ports. Norwegian Sky calls at St. Lucia, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Thomas on Deep Southern Caribbean voyages. Norwegian Sky's Exotic Southern Caribbean cruises visit Martinique, Antigua, St. Maarten, Tortola and St. Thomas. The series resumes on October 19, 2003 and runs through April 18, 2004.

NCL's Norwegian Sea departs from Miami on an innovative rotation of one four-, and two five-day sailings to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean from January 2, 2003 to April 10, 2003. The four-day voyages visit Key West and Nassau. Two separate five-day routes are available, one calling at Belize City, Belize, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in Mexico and an alternate route substituting the Cayman Islands for Belize. Norwegian Sea resumes its 4-, 5-, 5- series between November 6, 2003 and April 8, 2004.

Norwegian Majesty sails an alternating three- and four-day schedule to the Bahamas and Mexico from Miami through April 18, 2003. The Bahamas itinerary calls at Nassau and NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay. The Mexico itinerary calls at Key West and Cozumel. Norwegian Majesty resumes this schedule on November 7, 2003 through April 16, 2004.

Meanwhile, NCL's classic liner Norway continues her year-round seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings from Miami beginning January 5, 2003. The route features calls at St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Great Stirrup Cay.

Finally, NCL's Norwegian Wind embarks on a series of seven-day Exotic Western Caribbean voyages from October 11, 2003 to April 10, 2004. The itinerary departs roundtrip from Miami and calls at the Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize and Cozumel, Mexico.

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, Fla., (305) 436-0866; visit NCL's web site at www.ncl.com.

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