News from the world of cruise travel
June 1-30, 2005
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Seabourn 2006-2007 Catalogue Now Available
Variety, Innovation Mark a 16-Month Schedule of 'Seabourn yachting life'
MIAMI, June 30, 2005 -- Seabourn Cruise Line has published a new, 104-page catalogue outlining an impressive 16-month schedule of 134 cruises for its three intimate, all-suite Yachts of Seabourn. The ultra luxury ships will visit 257 ports in 73 countries during the period from December 2005 through April, 2007. Destination highlights include a new series of 12-day Baltic cruises from Copenhagen, the return of the popular Fiji/New Zealand sailings and an array of new ports of call from Libya to China. The catalogue may be ordered from the line's website at www.seabourn.com. Quotes from Seabourn guests, utilized as headlines on page after page, are a key element of the catalogue's handsome design. They serve to communicate the attentive, sincere and personalized service which is the line's premier hallmark.
"Our yachts sail to the most desirable destinations on earth," said Seabourn president Deborah L. Natansohn. "Our suites are large and comfortable, the cuisine is superb and the ships are lovely," she continued. "But it is our staff, the fact that there are 160 of them serving a maximum of 208 guests, and their almost clairvoyant ability to surprise and delight our guests that truly makes a Seabourn cruise unbeatable."
Flexibility, Value
Approximately 57 percent of Seabourn's 2006-07 cruise schedule is offered in lengths of seven or eight days' duration. The bulk of those are designed to be combinable for up to six weeks of cruising with different port content. This creates an appealing combination of accessibility for travelers who want shorter ultra luxury cruises, with flexibility for those who prefer to stay aboard longer. Early Booking Savings of up to 50 percent vary by cruise and are published in the catalogue. Combining two or more consecutive cruises earns an extra 10 percent savings off the EBS fares. Longer combinations of 18 or more days qualify for Grand Voyage Savings of 50 percent or more off brochure fares.
Refurbishments For 2006
All three Yachts of Seabourn will undergo drydock maintenance and interior refurbishments by January, 2006. Planned upgrades include the installation of DVD players and flat-screen televisions in all guest suites and improvements in the popular indoor/outdoor Veranda Café alternative dining venues.
In 2005, 2006 and 2007, The Yachts of Seabourn sail cruises of five to 18 days or longer on award-winning itineraries worldwide. With Early Booking Savings of up to 50 percent, cruise-only fares start from $1,975 per person, based on double occupancy. For information, contact a travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com
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Princess Cruises South of the Border with Three Ships in 2006-07
Mexican Rivera Program Includes First Golden Princess Sailings on West Coast
SANTA CLARITA, CA, June 30, 2005 - Golden Princess will introduce its first West Coast cruises next season as part of Princess' 2006-07 Mexican Riviera cruise program, which features south-of-the-border cruises from both Los Angeles and San Francisco. In total, three ships - Diamond Princess, Golden Princess and Island Princess - will continue Princess' legacy and leadership in Mexico with the itineraries that first brought the line to prominence. Diamond Princess will sail the line's classic roundtrip voyages from Los Angeles, with an additional special holiday voyage aboard Island Princess. Golden Princess will make her West Coast debut with roundtrip sailings from San Francisco and a one-way voyage from Acapulco.
"The Mexican Riviera is where Princess started, and we continue to offer the region's best cruise experience," said Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Princess. "Our amenity-filled vessels offer more balconies than any other line in Mexico, making a Princess ship the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing breakfast overlooking Cabo's majestic Los Arcos or watching Puerto Vallarta's scenic Banderas Bay during sailaway."
Los Angeles passengers can choose from 31 weekly cruises aboard Diamond Princess, or Island Princess' holiday sailing, departing December 20, 2006. Both ships sail on the line's classic seven-day roundtrip itinerary featuring calls at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Diamond Princess departs every Saturday between September 23, 2006 and April 28, 2007.
San Francisco passengers will travel aboard Golden Princess for her first West Coast cruises, which include two 10-day roundtrip sailings featuring Acapulco, Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas - offered on April 12 and 22, 2007. The ship also sails on a seven-day voyage between Acapulco and San Francisco on April 5, 2007, with calls at Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.
All Mexican Rivera cruises feature some of the most amenity-filled vessels in the Princess fleet, with such distinctive features as the line's signature Personal Choice Dining, Lotus Spa, extensive children and teen centers, wedding chapels, internet centers, and an extensive array of entertainment options and venues, all in an intimately designed, personalized environment offering the line's renowned Princess Service. Together, the three vessels offer the most balcony staterooms available for Mexican Riviera cruises, perfect for enjoying the area's warm breezes and spectacular sunsets.
Early Booking Discount fares for cruises to the Mexican Riviera begin at $599 per person, based on double occupancy, for a seven-day sailing. Golden Princess' 10-day sailings begin at $1,249. Cruises open for booking on July 16, 2005. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Crystal Cruises & Cleveland Clinic Combine Wellness & Travel on Five Fall Itineraries
LOS ANGELES, June 27 -- If learning about a healthy heart on a Mediterranean cruise or protecting your skin during a Caribbean voyage sounds implausible, think again. This fall, experts from The Cleveland Clinic will travel aboard the award-winning Crystal Harmony and Crystal Serenity to share their expertise on health and wellness. Physicians from The Cleveland Clinic, one of the nation's most respected medical centers, will lead seminars on topics relevant to today's society while cruising the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Mexican Riviera on five enriching itineraries.
Crystal's "Cleveland Clinic Wellness Series" debuted two years ago to rave reviews from guests who discovered that a vacation is an ideal time for personal wellness enrichment, regardless of the itinerary. The progressive series of 45-minute seminars, typically three per voyage, are complimentary and feature leading-edge information, Q&A periods, and "Meet the Doctor" sessions on topics ranging from cardiology and spine to nutrition and dermatology.
"Wellness is such a hot topic among today's consumers, and people sincerely appreciate hearing from an expert who can distill through all the information that is so readily available to them -- particularly with the increased use of the Internet," says Kristin Turner, manager, entertainment, Crystal Cruises. "Our Cleveland Clinic series is so well attended because it's not a huge investment of time, yet people come away with such useful information."
The wellness series is offered as part of the line's innovative Creative Learning Institute, an extensive collection of interactive classes providing comprehensive instruction focusing on improving wellness and enhancing quality of life. The Creative Learning Institute features collaborations with respected learning institutions including The Cleveland Clinic for wellness, Yamaha for music, and Berlitz for language.
"The Cleveland Clinic is dedicated to advancing and sharing the latest information on health and science with our patients and the public," says A. David Rothner, M.D., chairman of the Department of Patient Education and Health Information at The Cleveland Clinic. "Our collaboration with Crystal provides a relaxing and open atmosphere for people to learn about their own individual wellbeing." Participating specialists from The Cleveland Clinic, several who are recognized as experts in their respective fields by the consumer guide "America's Top Doctors," are confirmed on the following itineraries:
Crystal Serenity; September 8-20; 12 days; Mediterranean; Rome to Venice
"Caring for Your Spine" -- Gorden Bell, M.D. discusses common back disorders, diagnosis and treatment and reasons why back pain is among the top reasons people visit the doctor.
Crystal Serenity; September 20-October 2; 12 days; Mediterranean; Venice to Athens
"Heart Health" -- Michael B. Rollins, M.D. presents interactive presentations on the diagnosis and prevention of cardiac disease -- the #1 cause of death in most advanced countries.
Crystal Harmony; October 22-November 1; 10 days; Mexican Riviera round-trip from Los Angeles
"Men's Health" -- James Ulchaker, M.D. shares information on the latest methods for diagnosing and treating the various types of prostate disease.
Crystal Harmony; November 1-8; 7 days; Mexican Riviera round-trip from Los Angeles
"Achieve Your Healthy Weight" -- Celeste Forsyth, M.D. addresses the problems caused by obesity including diabetes and high cholesterol, and shares tips on understanding the new food pyramid, food labeling, dining out and recipe modification.
Crystal Serenity; November 26-December 6; Caribbean round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale
"Love Your Skin" -- Terri McGillis, M.D. shares vital information on protecting and caring for skin, the largest organ in the human body that is often neglected.
For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
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Renowned Literati Sir Harold Evans and Tina Brown Light Up Queen Mary 2 July 5 Transatlantic Crossing
VALENCIA, CA, June 28, 2005 - Legendary publisher, editor and author Sir Harold Evans and his wife, literary powerhouse Tina Brown, will sail on Queen Mary 2's July 5th eastbound transatlantic crossing, continuing Cunard Line's tradition of hosting society's notables and influencers.
"We're delighted to welcome renowned media icons Sir Harold Evans and Tina Brown aboard Queen Mary 2," says Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Cunard Line. "Their illustrious careers have significantly impacted the literary worlds on both sides of the Atlantic, truly reflecting Cunard's heritage."
Sir Harold Evans is the author of the critically acclaimed They Made America: From the Steam Engine to the Search Engine, Two Centuries of Innovators, and was the president and publisher of Random House trade group. Evans, who was for 14 years the award winning editor of The Sunday Times of London and The Times, also held the positions in the United States of editorial director and vice chairman of US News & World Report, the New York Daily News, Atlantic Monthly and Fast Company. He will present three 45-minute programs: two on "The Innovators Who Made Our Modern World," and one presentation of "The American Century in War and Peace," an illustrated history of 100 years.
Tina Brown came to fame as a young editor for restoring England's long-established Tatler magazine to the front ranks, then moved to the United States where she saved the faltering Vanity Fair magazine in the eighties and then revived the illustrious New Yorker in the nineties. She partnered with Miramax Films in founding Talk Magazine and Talk Books, then took up as creative a career in television. Launching an original new weekly talk show for CNBC weekly program, Topic A with Tina Brown, featuring an unexpected mix of A-list guests from the worlds of business, politics, the arts and Hollywood. In 2000, Brown was awarded the C.B.E. (Commander of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth for her services to overseas journalism.
Continuing the 165-year legacy of Cunard Line's transatlantic heritage, Queen Mary 2 holds the distinction of being the only ocean liner providing regularly scheduled transatlantic service between New York and Southampton. Cunard liners have long been considered among the most civilized ways to travel and Queen Mary 2 continues the romance of the ocean crossing - where White Star staff seamlessly cater to the comfort of well-heeled guests, and the fine art of conversation and dressing for dinner are events to be savored. Cunard has an illustrious history of hosting royalty, society luminaries and famed entertainers with peerless cachet. Earlier Cunard "Queens" have welcomed such famous personalities as Elizabeth Taylor, Rita Hayworth, Marlene Dietrich, Cary Grant, Bing Crosby, and Clark Gable.
Queen Mary 2 will sail 26 Atlantic crossings in 2005 and offers a variety of cruises to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. More records will be broken in winter 2006 when she becomes the largest passenger ship ever to circumnavigate South America with maiden calls planned for the US West Coast and Hawaii. For more information on Queen Mary 2, consult a travel professional, call 1-800-7CUNARD or visit the website at www.cunard.com
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More Choices Offered for Princess' 2006-07 Australia, Hawaii
& South Pacific Program
SANTA CLARITA, CA, June 23, 2005 - The soft sands and lapping waves of a tropical island beach, the poignant history of a WWII battle site, and the bustle of cosmopolitan Sydney are just some of the experiences that Pacific region cruising will offer to Princess passengers in 2006-07. Five ships - Sapphire Princess, Island Princess, Tahitian Princess, Pacific Princess and Dawn Princess - together offer a comprehensive program that includes 11 Princess itineraries to 49 destinations, including two new ports for Princess - the fascinating art deco city of Napier, New Zealand and a WWII battle site, Chuuk (Truk) in Micronesia, added to the new Sydney to Osaka sailing of the line's popular "Islands of the Pacific Theater" cruise. In addition to Princess' program featuring Australia & New Zealand, Hawaii, Tahiti and extended Pacific crossings, the company also offers the opportunity for North American passengers to enjoy a true "Aussie" experience aboard Dawn Princess on her first season sailing for the Australian market.
"With such a wide array of destinations and ships, this program gives our customers an incredibly diverse choice in cruise vacations through the Pacific region," said Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Princess. "Passengers can enjoy the many amenities and options available on some of our newest and largest vessels as they cruise 'Down Under,' or choose the intimate atmosphere of our smallest ships as they explore the unique islands and ports of call of our longer Connoisseur Cruises."
Among the Pacific area cruise choices available in 2006-07 are:
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Australia & New Zealand on Sapphire Princess - Sapphire Princess returns "Down Under," with the classic 12-day Australia & New Zealand cruises between Sydney and Auckland. The ship offers eight sailings between January 11 and April 5, 2007 that call at Melbourne, Hobart (Tasmania), Dunedin, Christchurch, Tauranga and scenic cruising through Fiordland National Park.
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Island Princess to the Hawaiian Islands - The popular Island Princess returns for another season of 15-day round-trip cruises to the tropical paradise of Hawaii from Los Angeles. The series features 15 departures between September 21, 2006 and April 26, 2007. The itinerary will take passengers to all of Hawaii's major islands with visits to both Hilo and Kona on the Big Island, Honolulu on Oahu, Maui and Kauai.
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Tahitian Princess in French Polynesia -- Tahitian Princes continues to sail throughout the year in the beautiful waters of French Polynesia with two 10-day itineraries - Polynesia & the Cook Islands and Polynesia & the Marquesas Islands. Both routes feature scenic cruising along the picturesque island of Tahaa, plus calls in Moorea, Raiatea and Bora Bora; and passengers can choose whether to visit Rarotonga in the Cook Islands or the more remote Marquesas with scenic cruising through the atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago. In addition, Tahitian Princess will offer six voyages between Tahiti and the Hawaiian Islands, with 12-day cruises between Papeete and Honolulu featuring calls at Raiatea, Bora Bora, Moorea, Christmas Island, Kauai, Maui and Hilo. Tahitian Princess' season runs between April 29, 2006 and April 16, 2007.
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South Pacific Connoisseur Voyages - Princess' series of longer adventure voyages continues with six intriguing ways to cross the Pacific. Sapphire Princess and Dawn Princess offer several journeys between the U.S. and Australia that call at many of the South Pacific's romantic isles plus visits to New Zealand. Dawn Princess makes her transpacific debut with a San Francisco to Sydney sailing on September 26, 2006 and then returns on a Sydney to Los Angeles cruise on March 12, 2007. Sapphire Princess sets sail from Sydney to San Francisco on April 17, 2007.
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Pacific Princess meanwhile offers three unique sailings, including new routes and introducing several new ports for Princess. The line's popular Islands of the Pacific Theater cruise departs April 26, 2006 with a new 21-day Sydney to Osaka route to many of WWII's Pacific battle sites, including Guadalcanal, Guam, Saipan, Iwo Jima and Hiroshima, as well as a new port for Princess, Chuuk (formerly Truk) in Micronesia - site of a 1944 battle and today home to a lagoon with sunken war vessels. A 20-day South Pacific Islands cruise departs November 10, 2006, sailing from Sydney to Papeete and features a new port of call, Napier, New Zealand, renowned for its world-class art deco architecture. The ship also offers a 22-day South Pacific and Andes cruise on November 29, 2006 with a route between Papeete and Aruba that features scenic cruising of Pitcairn Island, a call at Easter Island and a full Panama Canal transit.
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Dawn Princess Australian Adventures - For passengers who want to enjoy a true Australian experience, Princess is offering North American passengers the opportunity to join Dawn Princess on her first season sailing "Down Under." Cruises range from eight to 28 days on a variety of itineraries that include destinations such as Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Tasmania, New Zealand and a complete circumnavigation of the Australian continent. The November 2006 to February 2007 cruise season will offer a genuine "Aussie" experience with Australian dollars as the onboard currency and dining and entertainment options geared to Australian tastes.
Early booking fares for Australia and South Pacific cruises begin at $1,245 for 10-day sailings. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com
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Holland America Line Wraps Up the Holidays With 20 Winter Escapes to Exotic & Popular Destinations
Seattle, June 21, 2005 From the exotic celebrating Christmas with penguins in Antarctica or toasting Hanukkah beneath the fiery Kilauea volcano in Hawaii to a popular Caribbean or Mexico cruise, Holland America Line invites savvy travelers to celebrate the season this December on one of 20 winter escapes.
The gift of travel is an ideal present made all the more special when shared with loved ones and extended family, says Richard D. Meadows, CTC, senior vice president of marketing and sales. From enriching activities ashore to special onboard festivities celebrating the season, our holiday cruises provide tremendous value and extensive options for travelers of all ages.
Families will enjoy the spirit of the holiday with the premium cruise lines Family Reunion Program rewarding those who book five staterooms or more with special pricing and extra amenities enhancing the already inherent value and ease of a cruise vacation. The special program features extras such as unlimited soft drinks, family photos, and dinner in the lines specialty Pinnacle Grill Restaurant. Caribbean-bound families might enjoy free rentals of snorkel gear and swim mats or banana boat rides on Half Moon Cay, Holland America Lines award-winning private island.
From December 17 through 30, 2005, Holland America Line offers several cruise departures ranging from 7- to 20-days and accommodating the varied schedules of busy professionals, school kids and grandparents. Destinations, both close-to-home and far-flung, include:
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The white-sand beaches and azure waters of the Caribbean the perfect warm winter retreat with 13 holiday cruises, ranging from 7 to 15 days, traveling round-trip from Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa, Florida, and Norfolk, Virginia. Most itineraries feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, the lines award-winning private Bahamian island. Here, in addition to relaxing on the beach or enjoying a host of water sports activities, guests will appreciate the islands Family Aqua Park with slides, AquaTrax guided personal water craft park, sting ray adventure program and a horseback riding and swimming tour. One cruise also visits the Orinoco River in South America.
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The mystery and beauty of the Mexican Riviera explored with four journeys 8 or 10 days traveling round-trip from San Diego. In a country known for its festive celebrations, guests may experience the excitement of Las Posadas, the nine days before Christmas.
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Wondrous journeys to more exotic locales 15-day Circle Hawaii itinerary round-trip from San Diego featuring the talents of Ying Chang Compenstine, an internationally recognized Asian healthy cuisine author traveling as part of the lines Culinary Arts Program; a 16-day New Zealand/Australia adventure from Auckland to Sydney; and a 20-day exploration of South America & Antarctica traveling from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Valparaíso, Chile.
Each holiday voyage features clergy to conduct Catholic, Protestant and Jewish services. Holland America Lines on-board festivities for the entire family include holiday decorations, special movie showings, traditional dinner selections, religious services, a visit for the kids from Santa sometimes arriving by parasail activities and crafts for the Club HAL kids program, and a Christmas show by the crew on Christmas Eve. The line also holds a New Years Eve Gala and arranges to broadcast some college bowl games on board the ship.
With per person fares beginning at US$999 for a 7-day Caribbean cruise, the uncommon level of service, elegant accommodations, and enchanting style of a Holland America Line vacation represents tremendous value perhaps the best gift of all. For more information about planning a holiday cruise, contact a travel agent or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com
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Star Clippers' 2005/2006 Ocean Crossing Bookings on the Rise
MIAMI, June 21, 2005 -- With more travelers seeking vacations that combine the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate while also visiting exciting destinations, ocean crossings are increasingly popular. With demand rising, Star Clippers is offering a diverse lineup of ocean crossings for 2005 and 2006.
An ocean crossing aboard a Star Clippers tall ship is about more than simply getting from here to there -- it's an epic journey that allows guests to experience the thrill of traversing a great ocean under sail without sacrificing the modern creature comforts they have come to expect. It's a step back in time to the days when courses were charted by the stars and climbing the towering mast was all in a day's work. And with crossing fares beginning at just $1,695 per person, double occupancy, these sailings also represent an excellent value.
Star Flyer transits the Suez Canal on 37-night Indian Ocean crossings
Departing Oct. 6, 2005, and March 25 and Oct. 12, 2006, Star Flyer sails between Athens, Greece, and Phuket, Thailand, on majestic 37-night Indian Ocean crossings. Along the way, the 170-passenger ship will transit the Suez Canal and take guests to ports where they can explore 3,000 years of history in the tombs of Rameses and walk through ancient groves of frankincense trees.
During the Athens to Phuket cruise, the ship will call at Mykonos and Rhodes, Greece; Alexandria, Port Said, Sharm El Sheik and Safaga, Egypt; Salalah, Oman; Goa and Cochin, India; Colombo, Sri Lanka; and Similan Islands, Thailand. The reverse itinerary omits the port of Salalah and adds an overnight in Colombo. Cruise-only fares for the full 37 nights begin at $3,885, per person, double occupancy. Segments ranging from nine to 28 nights also are available.
Star Clipper offers island favorites during 28-night ocean crossings
Star Clipper departs Cannes, France, Oct. 15, 2005, and Oct. 14, 2006, on 28-night transatlantic journeys that end at the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. Before setting out across the Atlantic, guests aboard the 170-passenger ship will visit island jewels and walk in the footsteps of such notables as Admiral Lord Nelson and author Jules Vern. Ports of call on the October 2005 voyage include Mahon, Menorca; Pallensa, Majorca; Formentera, Balearic Islands; Malaga, Spain; Funchal, Madeira; and Las Palmas, Canary Islands. Cruise-only fares for the full 28 nights begin at $3,085, per person, double occupancy. Segments ranging from six to 22 nights also are available.
The October 2006 crossing calls at St. Tropez, France; Palma, Majorca; Ibiza, Motril and Cadiz, Spain; Tangier, Morocco; Portimao and Lisbon, Portugal; and Funchal, Madeira. Cruise-only fares for the full 28 nights begin at $3,495, per person, double occupancy. Fares for an 18-day segment sailing from Lisbon to St. Maarten begin at $1,695 per person, double occupancy.
Exotic North Africa welcomes Royal Clipper on 16- and 21-night crossings
Royal Clipper, the flagship of the Star Clippers fleet, sails 16- and 21-night transatlantic crossings that call at ports throughout Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Departing Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, for Bridgetown, Barbados, on Oct. 16, 2005, the ship transports 227 privileged passengers to a world where old meets new and lush vegetation abounds. Ports of call include Bonifacio, Corsica; Palma, Majorca; Malaga, Spain; Casablanca, Safi and Essauira, Morocco; and Tenerife, Canary Islands. Cruise-only fares for the full 21 nights begin at $2,625 per person, double occupancy. Segments ranging from five to 16 nights also are available.
On April 16, 2006, the ship departs from Bridgetown for a 21-night crossing to Civitavecchia. Ports include Punta Delgada, Azores; Malaga, Spain; Palma, Majorca; and Mahon, Menorca. Cruise-only fares for the full 21 nights begin at $2,925 per person, double occupancy. Segments ranging from five to 16 nights also are available.
Sailing from Lisbon, Royal Clipper departs Oct. 27, 2006, on a 16-night journey to Bridgetown. Along the way, the ship calls at Casablanca, Safi and Essauira, Morocco; and Tenerife, Canary Islands. Cruise-only fares begin at $1,895 per person, double occupancy.
Star Clippers combines the pampered luxury of mega-yacht cruising with the exhilarating thrill of sailing aboard authentic clipper ships. Guests rediscover what sailing was like during the glorious age of the tall ships while visiting intimate ports of call untouched by larger cruise ships. The four- and five-masted clipper ships feature a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Passengers dress in resort-casual attire and dine in one unhurried, open sitting. Whether unwinding in the bowsprit net while gazing at the sea below or climbing the mast for a panoramic view of the horizon, a unique sailing adventure awaits. For more information or to make a reservation, contact a travel professional, call Star Clippers at 1-800-442-0551 or visit www.starclippers.com. To request a brochure, call 1-800-442-0556.
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NCV Reduces Cruise-Only Rates 10%-20% Between Sept 1
& Dec 31, 2005
NEW YORK -- Norwegian Coastal Voyage has announced a reduction of 10% in cabin rates on round-trip sailings and 20% on six- and seven-day one-way itineraries along the fjord-indented coast of Norway between Bergen and Kirkenes, above the Arctic Circle. The cabin savings amount to $224 to $325 per person, double occupancy on one-way and $203 to $243 on round-trip voyages and apply to new bookings in outside cabin categories U and P. These lower fares can be combined with senior savings of $95 to $170 for travelers age 67 and up as well as AARP member discounts of $70 to $100 per cabin. The reductions are also applied to the cruise portion of NCV Independent Vacations and NCV Escorted Vacations.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage is at (800) 323-7436 or (212) 319-1300; fax (212) 319-1390; for brochures, (800) 666-2374, 24 hours a day, and online at www.norwegiancoastalvoyage.us
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All-Star Lineup of Baseball Legends Kicks Off MSC Cruises 2005-2006 Caribbean Season
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, June 20, 2005 - MSC Cruises baseball theme cruises were so popular last year that the line is bringing them back for another Caribbean season. MSC Cruises will also feature other theme sailings, including Big Band cruises Jan. 13, March 20 and April 22 and a Feb. 15 Jazz cruise. The baseball theme series begins with a powerful lineup of baseball greats Hall-of-Famers Bob Feller, Ralph Kiner and Earl Weaver as well as Amos Otis, Bert Campaneris and Stan Bahnsen onboard MSC Liricas first Caribbean sailing of the 2005-2006 season. The Dec.10 7-night roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale includes calls at San Juan, St. Maarten, La Romana and Cayo Levantado and two days at sea.
Guests repeatedly told us how much they enjoyed meeting and interacting with the players, says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises USA. Its a great way for fans to stay connected during the off-season and gain real insight into the National Pastime. Having the legends of the game onboard adds yet another dimension to the MSC Cruises True Italian Signature experience. Its been a real grand slam and we are looking forward to another winning season.
The cruise includes 10 free interactive passenger/player activities, including a player-hosted trivia game in which guests can test their baseball knowledge, question-and-answer sessions, and a lively story-telling session in which the players share some candid revelations about some of the characters of the game. Players will also host pitching, hitting and defensive strategy clinics. Perhaps the most popular activity is the free autograph session at the end of the cruise. One guest described the baseball theme activities as just amazing, adding that the players were interesting, very funny and very accessible to everyone. Baseball theme cruises are also scheduled for the Jan. 28, Feb. 18 and March 11 seven-night sailings of the MSC Opera and the MSC Liricas 11-night April 22 itinerary. Participating players will be announced at a later date.
The lineup for the Dec. 10 sailing features the following baseball legends:
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Bob Feller The winningest pitcher in Cleveland Indians history, Bob Feller in 1962 became the first pitcher since charter member Walter Johnson to be elected to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. Feller earned the reputation as the fastest pitcher of his day, though he also had a curve and slider. During his career, he pitched three no-hitters only Nolan Ryan and Sandy Koufax pitched more and a record 12 one-hitters. The eight-time All-Star and his blazing fastball led the league in wins six times and strikeouts seven times. Even with a four-year break in his career to serve in the South Pacific during World War II, Feller still won a total of 266 games.
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Ralph Kiner Before becoming an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and best-selling author, Kiner belted 369 home runs during a 10-year career that spanned the Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians. He won or shared the National League home run crown for seven straight seasons. His playing career earned him election to the Hall of Fame in 1975 and to the All-Century Team as one of the top 100 players of the 20th Century. He joined the Mets broadcasting team in 1962, and in 2002 the TV booth in Shea Stadium was named in his honor.
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Earl Weaver Weaver managed the Baltimore Orioles with intensity, flair and an acerbic wit for 17 seasons, during which time his teams won six American League East titles, four pennants and the 1970 World Series. He ranks fifth in all-time winning percentages for managers in the 20th century. His five 100-win seasons is second only to Joe McCarthy. A master in hitter-pitcher match-ups, Weaver was known for his innovative managerial style and his confrontations with the men in blue.
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Bert Campaneris The infielder played with the As, Rangers, Angels and Yankees. As shortstop, he was a spark-plug lead-off hitter for the 70s As who won five straight Western Division titles and three World Series. A seven-time All-Star, he led the league in stolen bases six times, played in 18 Playoff games and 19 World Series games and led the American League in hits in 1968 (part of his lifetime total of 2,249 hits). On Sept. 9, 1965, as part of a promotion for Charlie Finleys then Kansas City As, he played all nine positions in a nine-inning game.
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Amos Otis Drafted by the Mets, the outfielder went to the Royals in 1969 and starred in centerfield for K.C. for 14 seasons. A five-time All Star, A-O won three Gold Gloves. He was in the top 10 for MVP four times, runs scored five times, batting average and hits four times, and had 620 at bats in 1970. He batted .300 twice in his career and captured the AL stolen-base title in 1971 with 52. He starred with four Royals division champions and led all players in the 1980 World Series with 11 hits; he also hit .478 in six World Series games with three home runs.
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Stan Bahnsen The Bahnsen Burner was named American League Rookie of the Year as a Yankee in 1968, when he won 17 games with a 2.06 ERA. He won 21 games with the Chicago White Sox in 1972 and has a total of 146 lifetime victories. Bahnsen pitched for Division-winning teams while with the As and Expos and is ranked 11th on the Yankees all-time ERA leaders list. He averaged 15 wins as a starting pitcher for nine years before becoming a setup-man for Oakland and Montreal for the last six years of his career.
While in port, guests can take a seventh-inning stretch from talking baseball to explore San Juans Spanish roots, enjoy the shopping and Dutch culture of St. Maarten, swim with dolphins off the coral sands of La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and enjoy MSC Cruises private paradise, the beautiful Dominican Republic island of Cayo Levantado. There will also be ample time to enjoy the elegance, Italian cuisine, ambiance, and exceptional service of the MSC Lirica. Prices for the 7-day cruise begin at only $600 per person, double occupancy. For further information and brochures, contact a travel agent or visit the company's website at www.msccruises.com
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Princess Grows Asia Cruise Capacity by More Than 25 Percent in 2006-07 Offering New Vacation Options to this Ancient Destination
SANTA CLARITA, CA, June 16, 2005 - Underscoring its leadership position in the Asia market, Princess Cruises offers its largest deployment there ever with two ships and a vast array of unique itineraries. The line will increase its Asia capacity by more than 25 percent for the 2006-07 season. Whether exploring the secrets of Angkor Wat in new port-of-call Cambodia, or soaking up the lively traditions of Beijing, Princess passengers have more options than ever before to delve into the fascinating cultures of exotic Asia.
Two ships will return to Asia, beginning May 2006 -- the intimate Pacific Princess and the choice-filled Sapphire Princess. Passengers will be able to choose from 15 departures of eight unique itineraries, including an enhanced route for the China & Far East cruise, now featuring a new port of Kagoshima, Japan, known for Iso Garden, beautifully designed in 1660 by the Shimazu lord of the time. Pacific Princess also debuts a Southeast Asia & India voyage that will feature another colorful new port, Sihanoukville, Cambodia - a gateway for an overland tour to the legendary temple of Angkor Wat.
"The lure and mystique of Asia continues to attract Princess passengers because they can visit an array of celebrated ports steeped in history, beauty and culture but have the ease of unpacking once and returning to their amenity-filled ship at the end of each day ," said Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Princess. "Princess' focus on amazing destinations around the globe is underscored with the announcement of our new Asia program which features two ships and sailings in summer and fall."
The 2006-07 Asia season includes:
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Southeast Asia & China - Three itineraries offer passengers the opportunity to sample the wonders of China as well as the delights of Southeast Asia. Sapphire Princess features a 16-day route between Beijing and Bangkok that includes calls at Nagasaki, Shanghai, Taipei, Hong Kong, Okinawa, Nha Trang (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore. Sapphire Princess offers two sailings on October 26 and November 11, 2006.
Pacific Princess will sail on five departures of Princess' popular 16-day Beijing/Bangkok route featuring calls at Pusan, Nagasaki, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Nha Trang (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and Kuantan (Malaysia). Departures include May 29, June 14 & 30, July 16 and August 1, 2006.
Sapphire Princess also offers a sailing on a similar 16-day Beijing to Singapore cruise with calls at Pusan, Nagasaki, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Nha Trang (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Kuantan (Malaysia). The ship departs on November 27, 2006.
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China & Far East - Two itineraries feature China and neighboring countries. The first, a 12-day cruise from Beijing to Osaka, this new route adds stops in Taipei, Okinawa and a new port for Princess, Kagoshima (Japan), in addition to calls at Dalian, Shanghai (overnight) and Pusan. Sapphire Princess sails on this new itinerary on October 2, 2006.
In addition, both Sapphire Princess and Pacific Princess offer sailings on a 12-day route from Osaka to Beijing that includes calls at Nagasaki, Vladivostok, Pusan, Shanghai, and Dalian. Pacific Princess departs on this route on May 17 and Sapphire Princess on October 14, 2006.
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Australia & Asia - Sapphire Princess travels from Singapore to Sydney with a 19-day route that features Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali, Darwin, Cairns, Cid Harbour (for the Great Barrier Reef), and Brisbane. Sapphire Princess heads "Down Under" on a special holiday voyage departing December 23, 2006.
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Southeast Asia & India (with Cambodia) - A new 15-day journey between Bangkok and Mumbai features Princess' new call in Cambodia. The route includes not only the new port of Sihanoukville, Cambodia, but also calls in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Phuket, Colombo (Sri Lanka) and Goa (India). The Cambodia call serves as the gateway for an overland excursion to Cambodia's most renowned attraction, Angkor Wat, and will also include the country's capital, Phnom Penh, and a tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Pacific Princess offers two sailings on August 17 and September 1, 2006.
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Alaska & Far East - A 15-day voyage between worlds, sailing from Anchorage (Whittier) to Beijing as Sapphire Princess takes passengers to Kodiak, Adak (Aleutian Islands) scenic cruising, Petropavlovsk, Sapporo, Tokyo (Yokohama) and Nagasaki. Sapphire Princess sails on September 16, 2006.
Early booking fares for Asia cruises begin at $1,495 for 12-day sailings. Cruises open for booking on June 11, 2005. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com
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U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao to Christen Pride of America, the Largest U.S.-Flag Cruise Ship Ever Built
MIAMI, June 13, 2005 NCL America announced that the Honorable Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, has graciously agreed to serve as Godmother of its newest cruise ship, Pride of America. The ship is the largest U.S. Flagged cruise ship ever built and the first newly built cruise ship to join the US register in half a century. Secretary Chao will christen Pride of America in a ceremony aboard the ship in New York City on June 17, 2005.
Secretary Chao came to this country as a young immigrant, speaking no English, when she was eight years old. Today, she is the first Asian American woman appointed to serve in the Presidents cabinet in history and has shown what can be accomplished in America with hard work and determination, said Colin Veitch, NCL Corporations president and chief executive officer. She is an inspiring and accomplished leader who we are very proud to have serve as Godmother of Pride of America.
Pride of America employs 100 percent U.S. officers and crew and will generate millions of dollars for Hawai`i and the U.S. economy. The Pride of America is the first newly constructed ocean going U.S.-flagged cruise ship in 50years, Secretary Chao said. It will provide thousands of jobs for American workers.
The 81,000-ton Pride of America is NCL Americas second U.S.-flag ship, joining Pride of Aloha which began inter-island Hawai`i cruising in July 2004. Pride of Hawai`i, NCL Americas third U.S. Flagged cruise ship will be delivered in 2006. Once all three U.S.-flag cruise ships are operational, employing nearly 4,000 American seafarers, NCL America will be the largest private employer of U.S. merchant mariners in the nation.
About Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao
Secretary Elaine Chao is the nation's 24th Secretary of Labor. She is the first Asian-American woman appointed to a Presidential cabinet position in U.S. history. When nominating Secretary Chao, President George W. Bush described her as an individual with strong executive talent, compassion, and commitment to helping people build better lives.
Other government positions held by Secretary Chao include Deputy Secretary at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, Deputy Maritime Administrator in the U.S. Department of Transportation. She was also Director of the Peace Corps, served as President and Chief Executive of United Way of America, and was a Distinguished Fellow at The Heritage Foundation.
Secretary Chao grew up in Queens, New York after her family emigrated to the United States aboard a freighter from Taiwan when she was 8 years old to join her father. She received her M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School and her undergraduate degree in economics from Mount Holyoke College. Secretary Chao is married to the United States Senate Majority Whip, Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.
About Pride of America
Pride of America has been designed to reflect America's favorite places on board, from its spirited entertainment options to the Americana décor and regional fare. She also represents some of the countrys proudest assets, including a Skyline Restaurant inspired by the architecture and skyscrapers of the 1930's; the Liberty Restaurant featuring a Colonial design and paintings of important historic moments; and the Capitol Atrium, inspired by the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. This fabulous new ship will also offer all the freedom and choice of Freestyle Cruising. During her inaugural season, she will offer three historic itineraries from the exciting shores of Miami through the Panama Canal, to a voyage from San Francisco across the Pacific to her new home in Hawai`i.
Pride of America features a spectacular salute to the diversity of the United States: vibrant stars and stripes hull artwork; a New Orleans-style Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge; and the Alaskan Gold Rush Saloon, Key West Grill and Napa Wine Bar. Pride of America guests will also enjoy the Santa Fe Spa and Fitness Center decorated with artifacts and authentic vegetation from New Mexico, the Newbury Street Shopping area inspired by early 1900s New England shops, the SS AMERICA Library and the ship's Hollywood Theatre.
Once in Hawai`i this July, Pride of America will offer seven-day cruises from Honolulu will feature a day in Hilo, Hawai`i; two days in Kahului, Maui; a day in Kona, Hawai`i; and two days in Nawiliwili, Kauai. NCL America is one of three brands under NCL Corporation ("NCL"), an innovative cruise company headquartered in Miami, Florida, with a fleet of 16 ships in service and under construction. The corporation oversees the operations of Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America and Orient Lines.
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Actress Mira Sorvino Named Godmother of Carnival Cruise Lines'
New Carnival Liberty
MIAMI, June 14, 2005 Oscar-winning actress Mira Sorvino has been chosen as godmother for Carnival Cruise Lines newest ship, Carnival Liberty, set to debut in Italy this summer. Sorvino is scheduled to break the traditional bottle of champagne against the ships hull during a naming ceremony July 19, 2005, in Civitavecchia, Italy.
It is an esteemed maritime tradition that a ships godmother is a woman of honor and distinction whose name will be forever linked with that vessel. Mira Sorvinos wide-ranging achievements as an actress and activist make her the ideal candidate to serve as godmother for our spectacular new ship, Carnival Liberty, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
Early in her career, the Italian-American actress shot to stardom in her breakthrough role in Woody Allens 1995 movie Mighty Aphrodite, for which she won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, a National Society of Film Critics Award, and a Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Supporting Actress. She has an extensive resume that includes numerous leads in feature films, including Romy and Micheles High School Reunion, Mimic, Summer of Sam, The Replacement Killers, The Triumph of Love, Barcelona, and Quiz Show.
Sorvino earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her performance in the HBO movie Norma Jean and Marilyn in which she played Marilyn Monroe. The multitalented actress also produced the acclaimed independent feature comedy Lisa Picard is Famous which had its debut as an official selection at the Cannes Film Festival. She also associate-produced the documentary Freedom to Hate tracing anti-Semitism in the former Soviet Union, and the feature film Amongst Friends.
She is also the official ambassador for the Stop Violence Against Women Program with the worldwide human rights organization, Amnesty International. This past April, Sorvinos work with Amnesty International was recognized at the Artivist Film Festival, which acknowledges socially conscious filmmakers, activist celebrities, and charitable organizations. She is also a past recipient of the National Italian American Foundations Achievement Award and has been nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award and a British Academy Award.
Born in Tenafly, N.J., Sorvino is the daughter of veteran actor Paul Sorvino, whose credits include the films Goodfellas and Oliver Stones Nixon and TVs Law and Order. She was raised in New Jersey and went to Harvard University where she graduated magna cum laude in East Asian studies and received the Hoopes prize for her thesis. She is married to Christopher Backus and they have a six-month-old daughter.
Currently in the final stages of construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the new Carnival Liberty will depart on an introductory three-day cruise from Monfalcone July 16 and arrive in Civitavecchia July 19, with the naming ceremony taking place later that evening. The ship is slated to commence a series of 12-day Mediterranean cruises a first for Carnival Cruise Lines from Civitavecchia July 20, 2005.
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MS Europa Celebrates Sixth Birthday in September 2005 With Trip That Delivers the Best of Europe
Hamburg, Germany, June 2005 MS EUROPA, rated worldwide as the #1 ship by Berlitz Publishings Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships for five years straight, will celebrate its sixth birthday in September with an 11-day cruise that encompasses the best of Western Europe. Including fascinating islands, a world metropolis, old ports with turbulent pasts, and wine-tasting at a chateau in France, this very special cruise by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises visits Germany, England, the Channel Islands, France, and Spain.
Want to experience the best of what Hapag-Lloyds loyal German and European clientele desires on the best possible European cruise? This birthday cruise, which goes from Hamburg, Germany to Santander, Spain, visits four countries in total, from Sept 11-25 on dates, and includes these special places:
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Sylt, favorite party island of the Germans Take a walking tour through Thomas Manns town; attend a Gourmet Rally (culinary event featuring Sylts best gourmet chefs); or take an evening hike on Morsum Cliff by torchlight.
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From Dover England, choose from London sightseeing to Leeds castle or Dover Castle and the White Cliffs.
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Honfleur France, a medieval port city at the mouth of the Seine, home of many painters.
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St. Peter Port/Guernsey/Channel Islands.
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Lorient France or Carnac, or Pont-Aven, where Paul Gauguin found inspiration.
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Bordeaux is reached by river tour, where guests will have extensive wine-tasting at a wine tasting estate or visit the Chateau Mouton Rothschild for the ultimate wine and culinary experience.
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Disembarkation in Spain.
This trip full of magnificent highlights also offers entertainment by Udo Juergens, the famous musician; Matthias Buchholz, star cook of the gourmet restaurant "first floor"; and the renowned wine expert René Lambert.
MS EUROPA has an extensive following of Europeans, mostly Germans, who are repeat guests, and this is namely because the ship is known for providing the best of everything and then some, explains Sebastian Ahrens, Managing Director, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Naturally, the occasion of the ships birthday will bring its biggest devotees to join the celebration. We are eager to share the best of MS EUROPA and Europe with Americans. Because the ship has a fully bilingual staff, Daily Activity Planners, and Bilingual Menus, English-speaking guests can easily navigate the language barrier.
On the EUROPA youll find only suites most with their own balcony spacious and stylishly appointed, and all provided with first-class service. Accommodations are never less more than 290 square feet, assuring privacy and relaxation. Visit Hapag-Lloyd Cruises on the Internet at: www.hl-cruises.com. To book a cruise, call Euro Lloyd Travel Group 800-782-3924.
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Silversea Enhances "Transoceanic Crossings" with Exclusive New Land Programs
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, June 13, 2005 - Silversea guests can experience the art of relaxed luxury aboard six "Transoceanic Crossings" in 2005 and 2006, and enjoy savings of up to 50%. Ranging from twelve to 16 days, the transoceanic cruises offer a leisurely voyage of discovery along the grand routes connecting far-flung continents and cultures. Guests will journey in pampering, six-star luxury on voyages linking Europe with America's Colonial Coast or the Caribbean, and the Far East with the "Land Down Under," while distant corners of the Pacific Rim connect on a cruise from Japan to Alaska.
From the jungle temples of Cambodia's Angkor Wat to the Australian Outback, to the imperial palaces of Japan and the stately manners of England, guests will also have the opportunity to extend their transoceanic cruise with carefully tailored pre- and post-cruise land programs offering unique adventures and in-depth cultural exploration.
"Our Transoceanic Crossings are an excellent option for those sophisticated travelers who have the time to indulge in luxury and worldwide adventure at a leisurely pace," said David Morris, Silversea's senior vice president, North America sales. "In addition to experiencing the award-winning hospitality, comfort and personalized service offered aboard our intimate, ultra-luxury ships, guests on the transoceanic voyages can extend their cruise vacation with optional land programs carefully designed to reveal the fascinating people, history and culture of some of the world's most diverse and intriguing destinations."
A perfect complement to Silversea's Transoceanic Crossings, the optional pre- and post-cruise land programs feature deluxe accommodations, all transportation, transfers, guided sightseeing and some meals. Prices start from $2,095 per guest. Highlights include:
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From Singapore, the six-night "Cambodia and the Mysteries of Angkor Wat" program takes guests to one of the world's most exotic destinations for a tour of ancient history with visits to temple sites in Phnom Penh, including the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, before journeying to the mysterious ruins of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, located in the lush jungle of Siem Reap, once the site of the ancient Khmer culture.
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From Sydney, the four-night "Outback Discovery" combines the spectacle of Sydney with the myths and magnificence of Australia's famed Outback. Guests witness the ever-changing colors of Ayers Rock as they enjoy an elegant dinner of local delicacies under the wide desert sky. From Alice Springs, guests explore the heart of the country on a camel safari, then rise early for a pre-dawn balloon adventure.
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From Southampton, "The English Manner" four-night program offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore the landmark estates of British gentry, hosted by their distinguished owners. Included are Exton Park, home of Viscount and Viscountess Campden, and Belvoir Castle, residence of The Duke and Duchess of Rutland.
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From Tokyo, the four-night "Imperial Japan" program provides guests with an enriching journey through Japan's imperial past with visits to such renowned sites as Nara's Grand Shrine, Kyoto's Golden Pavilion and the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.
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From Lisbon, "Portugal's Royal Past" is a three-night program that journeys through Portugal's rich cultural heritage. Guests visit Roman ruins, gothic monasteries, medieval castles and stay in regal palaces.
2005 Voyages
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Silver Whisper departs August 29, 2005 on a 12-day "Classic Crossing," Voyage 4533, from London (Southampton) to Boston with calls in Falmouth, U.K.; Waterford and Cork, Ireland; St. John's, Newfoundland; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $4,346 per person (25% savings).
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Silver Cloud departs October 17, 2005 on a 14-day "Islands in the Sun" voyage (1531) from Lisbon to Barbados with calls in Porto Santo and Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Santa Cruz de la Palma and Tenerife, Canary Islands; and Cape Verde Islands. Silver Sailings fares start at $3,298 per person (50% savings).
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Silver Shadow departs December 6, 2005 on a 16-day "Passage Down Under," Voyage 3537, from Singapore to Sydney with calls in Semarang, Indonesia; Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, Whitsunday Islands and Brisbane, Australia. Silver Sailings fares start at $6,857 per person (30% savings).
2006 Voyages
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Silver Cloud departs April 8, 2006 on a 14-day "Tropical Passage," Voyage 1610, from Barbados to Lisbon with calls in Castries, St. Lucia; St. John's, Antigua; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Cadiz, Spain; and Portimao, Portugal. Advance Payment Bonus fares start at $4,352 per person (35% savings).
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Silver Whisper departs April 20, 2006 on a 14-day "Atlantic Passage," Voyage 4615, from San Juan to Las Palmas with calls in Road Town, Tortola; St. John's, Antigua; Porto Santo and Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; and Santa Cruz de la Palma, Arrecife and Tenerife, Canary Islands. Advance Payment Bonus fares start at $4,352 per person (35% savings).
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Silver Shadow departs May 29, 2006 on a 14-day "Across the Bering Sea" voyage (3615) from Tokyo to Anchorage with calls in Hakodate and Otaru (Sapporo), Japan; Petropavlosk (Kamchatka), Russia; and Dutch Harbor, Kodiak and Homer, Alaska. Advance Payment Bonus fares start at $6,956 per person (20% savings).
Detailed information and complete itineraries are available at www.silversea.com
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Strong Demand Fuels 1st Quarter Passenger Growth for CLIA-Member Cruise Lines
NEW YORK, June 7, 2005 Strong consumer demand for seagoing vacations drove robust passenger growth in the first three months of 2005 as the member fleets of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) carried 2.63 million worldwide guests in the first quarter of 2005, an 8.9 percent increase over the same period in 2004. North American passengers grew by 12.9 percent during the quarter to 2.34 million guests, up from 2.10 million first-quarter guests one year ago.
The 2005 first-quarter passenger figures are new statistics released today by CLIA, whose 19 member cruise lines represent nearly 98 percent of the cruise capacity marketed in North America. In addition to the growing passenger totals, CLIA cruise lines also posted impressive occupancy figures, with a 104.3 percent occupancy factor in the first quarter of 2005 compared with 103.3 percent for the year prior.
The cruise industrys strong first-quarter 2005 passenger totals provide further evidence of the fertile consumer interest and demand for cruise vacations. The positive results are also testament to the hard work and productivity of CLIA 16,500-plus member travel agencies, said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the cruise industrys chief marketing and training organization and North Americas largest travel industry association. As the cruise lines continue to attract more and more consumers through non-stop innovation and new onboard options, CLIA-member agencies also continue to play a key role, providing todays consumers with the latest cruise product information and unmatched counsel and sales expertise, Dale added.
CLIAs first-quarter passenger carryings report also found:
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Itineraries of 1 to 5 days accounted for a 31.7 percent share of the cruise market; itineraries of 6 to 8 days accounted for 54.3 percent; 9 to 17-day itineraries accounted for 13.7 percent and itineraries of 18 days or longer accounted for .4 percent of the market.
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The average length of a cruise in the first three quarters was 7.33 days versus 7.09 days for the same period in 2004.
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Princess Debuts Unprecedented 73 New European Adventures Ashore® This Summer
SANTA CLARITA, CA, June 7, 2005 - By train, by foot, even by kayak. Exploring an undersea shipwreck or hiking an ancient volcano. Stepping back in time into the houses of the ancient elite in Ephesus, or sharing stories in the home of modern Norwegians. Sampling Guinness in Dublin or Cognac in... Cognac. This summer, Princess passengers have more ways to explore Europe than ever before as the line adds an unprecedented 73 new tours to its Europe lineup. In total, Princess will offer more than 430 tours throughout Europe including a new Elite Collection of more intimate tours. In addition, Princess passengers have the option of arranging private car or van service in 16 ports.
"As this is Princess' largest Europe season ever with three Grand class ships deployed there for the first time, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce our passengers to some of the region's unusual and delightful excursion options," noted Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Princess. "This summer we set out to offer our passengers the broadest possible range of touring experiences. From a private concert in St. Petersburg's Hermitage to a haunted estate in Scotland, there's a tour for just about any interest."
Highlights of these new adventure options include:
Unique Experiences
-- Enjoy a Musical Evening at the Famed Hermitage Museum - An unusual opportunity to visit St. Petersburg's Hermitage Museum at night when passengers can enjoy the beautiful collections in private, followed by a champagne reception and a classical concert. (St. Petersburg, Russia)
-- Explore Shipwrecks off Scotland's Orkney Islands via ROV- Passengers explore under the sea to view the remains of the largest scuttling of navy ships ever to take place, viewing the many of the 74 sunken navel ships of WWI's German High Seas fleet via transmission from a ROV (remote equipped vehicle) that is sent down to the bottom of Orkney's Scapa Flow area. (Kirkwall, Orkney Islands)
-- Take the Train to Rome/Visit Nero's Golden House - Passengers can get a feel for local life by taking a train to Rome for their tour which includes St. Peter's Basilica, the Colesseum and a unique opportunity to visit Nero's Golden House (Domus Aurea), a series of once gold-covered buildings the emperor built following the fire of 64 AD. (Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy)
A Taste of Local Culture
-- Learn The Guinness Story - Synonymous with Ireland, Guinness was born at Dublin's St. James Gate Brewery more than 230 years ago. Passengers on this tour will see, hear and smell the ingredients as they make their way through the process of becoming Guinness' famous stout, and can sample the "black stuff" just yards from where it originates. (Dublin, Ireland)
-- Visit a Norwegian family - Passengers can explore everyday life in Stavanger as they tour the home of local residents and exchange stories over a plate of Norwegian waffles. (Stavanger, Norway)
-- Learn the Art of Brandy Making in Cognac - The famed home of cognac, the Hennessy Cellars opens its doors to passengers to explain the art of brandy making. (La Rochelle, France)
Get Active
-- Hike Santorini's Volcano - Just off the coast of Santorini lies a volcano credited with the largest eruption in history - which is said to have destroyed the Minoan civilization in Crete around 1650 BC, and perhaps gave rise to the story of Atlantis. Today's passengers will sail out to the volcano and hike to the crater to view the black lava blocks, domes of magma and the dramatic vistas of Santorini. (Santorini, Greece)
-- Paddle through Norway - Several new excursions offer the opportunity to explore Norway's stunning fjords from sea level. Options include floating through the Valldal Wilderness Adventure or kayaking the Geirangerfjord, where passengers can paddle through one of nature's masterpieces to glide up close to steep mountain walls in the "world's most beautiful fjord." (Flåm and Geiranger, Norway)
-- Search for Feathered Friends - A number of new excursions offer passengers the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors as they explore some of Europe's prime bird-watching areas. Whether in the many reserves of Scotland's Orkney Islands or off the coast of Norway's North Cape, bird lovers and can keep watch for a variety of feathered friends. (Kirkwall, Orkney Islands; Honningsvag, Norway)
Follow the Footsteps of Royalty
-- Tour St. Petersburg's Suburban Royal Residences - A unique glimpse of the everyday family life and traditions of Russian monarchs. Passengers will visit the sumptuous Catherine Palace, the unique newly opened Alexander Palace - the last tsar's home - and the Palace of Emperor Paul I. (St. Petersburg, Russia)
-- Visit Britain's Most-Haunted Stately Home - With a reputation as the most-haunted stately home in Britain, Glamis Castle has been a royal residence since 1372 and was the childhood home of the late Queen Mother. (South Queensferry, Scotland)
The Elite Collection/EZ Tours
This year Princess introduces new tour designations to help passengers find the perfect tour. The Elite Collection tours offer a more intimate group that usually travels by mini bus and includes exclusive visits to local attractions that cannot accommodate a larger group. A total of 11 Elite Collection tours will introduce passengers to special experiences in Athens, Corfu, Livorno (Florence), Kusadasi, Marseille, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), Istanbul, Copenhagen, Berlin and Flåm. Among the new tours this year:
-- Explore the Terrace Houses of Ephesus - This special Elite Collection tour offers visitors to the ancient city of Ephesus the opportunity to explore a newly excavated area of homes accessible only by special permission. These terrace houses belonged to the city's wealthy and are decorated with fine mosaics and frescos. (Kusadasi, Turkey)
-- Revel in Provencal Delights - An opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful natural sites in Provence, the Lubéron range. Passengers on this Elite Collection excursion will enjoy a landscape filled with orchards and vineyards punctuated by farmhouses and charming villages. The tour will visit two such towns, Lourmarin and L' Isle-sur-Sorgue. (Marseille, France)
Also new this year, the EZ Tours designation indicates excursions designed for passengers with limited mobility. These leisurely tours primarily feature driving with stops for photo opportunities and shopping. In total 21 such EZ Tours are offered in a wide range of cities, including Athens, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Kusadasi, Livorno (Florence), Monte Carlo, Naples, Rhodes, Venice, Barcelona, Cannes, Civitavecchia (Rome), Lisbon, Propriano, Istanbul, Copenhagen, Gdynia, Oslo, St. Petersburg, Tallinn and Honnigsvag. Among the new options are:
-- Visit the World's Northernmost Fishing Village - Part of Princess' new EZ tour program, this excursion offers a relaxing drive around Norway's Mageroey Island and a visit to the North Cape Christmas and Winterhouse. Passengers will visit the northernmost fishing village in world and may spot some of the island's 4,000 reindeer. (Honningsvag, Norway)
-- Drive Along Marseille's Corniche - This EZ tour features a leisurely drive to take passengers along one of the most beautiful areas of Marseille, including the city's 35 miles of seafront, where visitors can enjoy views of the city's cathedral, old harbor and the highest point of the city, the enormous Roman-Byzantine Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde. (Marseille, France)
All three of Princess' celebrated Grand-class ships will ply the waters of Europe in 2005, offering more destination choices than ever before for passengers who want to explore the continent in style. The amenity-laden Grand Princess, Golden Princess and Star Princess headline a season that features a 63 percent capacity increase in the region for Princess, several new and enhanced itineraries, and the most balconies of any fleet in Europe. The 2005 European season also includes the return ofSea Princess. Together, Princess vessels offer 57 departures between April 16 and November 10, 2005, sailing on 20 itineraries which feature more than 74 different ports of call or destinations. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Cunard Line Adds Ft. Lauderdale Embarkation and Disembarkation for Queen Mary 2's Historic Path of Magellan Voyages in 2006
VALENCIA, CA, June 7 -- Cunard Line has added Ft. Lauderdale embarkation and disembarkation points on January 17 and April 13, 2006 to Queen Mary 2's much-anticipated Path of Magellan South America Liner Voyages in 2006. Travelers can now choose from two "South American Odysseys" in the grand Cunard tradition: the 38-day westbound voyage embarking from New York on January 15, or the 36-day voyage departing from Ft. Lauderdale on January 17, taking guests around Cape Horn via the Drake Passage, Beagle Channel and the Straits of Magellan. The eastbound journey reverses the itinerary and concludes in Ft. Lauderdale on April 13 and New York on April 15.
"Adding Ft. Lauderdale to the Path of Magellan itineraries allows our Southern-based guests a convenient departing and returning point to experience the adventure of Queen Mary 2's maiden passage around South America," says Jan Swartz, senior vice president of customer service and sales for Cunard Line. "Guests will relive the adventures of such legendary explorers as Magellan and Willem Shouten, the first man to make the journey through the Drake Channel at the very tip of South America, all while sailing in the sumptuous surroundings of this grand ocean liner."
When Queen Mary 2 embarks on her journey, she will be the largest passenger vessel ever to navigate the storied waters around Cape Horn. The historic voyage will visit vibrant South American capitals, world-class resorts, remote settlements, wildlife sanctuaries and treasures of civilization. Prices start from $8,499 per person, double occupancy.
From January through April 2006, Queen Mary 2 will chart a memorable course through the West Indies and along the Atlantic seaboard of South America, around Tierra del Fuego to Chile and the Pacific Coast, then on to the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii and the United States. For those with wanderlust, but not unlimited vacation time, it is possible to choose from five shorter itineraries, which range from 10 to 14 days long. Air add- on fares are available from 161 North American cities in connection with the South America program.
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"Route to Rio" will see the triumphant return of Queen Mary 2 to Rio de Janeiro after a one-year hiatus -- her inaugural visit in February 2004 to celebrate Carnival was heralded throughout Brazil and neighboring nations. A southbound voyage departs New York for Rio January 15, 2006, calling at St. Kitts, Barbados and Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, en route. The reverse itinerary departs Rio on April 3, 2006. Prices for the 12-day cruise start from $2,799 per person, double. For those wishing to depart from Ft. Lauderdale, the 10-day "Route to Rio" cruise leaves Ft. Lauderdale on January 17.
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"Cape Horn & Chilean Fjords" is a 12-day navigation of Patagonia. The Rio to Valparaiso (Santiago) voyage -- departing January 27, 2006 -- visits Montevideo, Uruguay; Ushuaia, Argentina; and Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt in Chile. The reverse itinerary departs March 22, 2006. Scenic wonders abound including the Straits of Magellan, Chilean fjords and Lake District, Tierra del Fuego and even a flight-seeing excursion to Antarctica. Prices start from $2,999 per person, double.
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"Andes & the Americas" -- between Valparaiso and Los Angeles -- is a two-week cruise to ports in seven countries. Queen Mary 2 will call at Callao, Peru (gateway to Lima); Esmeraldas, Ecuador (for Quito); Fuerte Amador, Panama; Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica; and Acapulco. From Fuerte Amador passengers can join an excursion to the Panama Canal Zone. The Valparaiso to Los Angeles itinerary departs February 8, 2006, and operates in the reverse direction March 8. Prices start at $3,299 per person, double.
Queen Mary 2 is the largest (151,400 tons), longest (1,132 feet), tallest (236 feet), widest (135 feet) and most expensive ($800 million) passenger vessel ever built. There are 1,310 suites and cabins available in degrees of style and comfort ranging from pampered elegance to almost unimaginable luxury in the ship's famed Grill-level accommodations. Queen Mary 2 brings together like-minded travelers who relish the Cunard hallmarks of impeccable White Star Service, fine dining, sophisticated adventure and legacy of historic voyages and transatlantic travel.
Among the many notable facilities on board Queen Mary 2 are 10 dining venues, including a Mediterranean specialty restaurant run by star chef Todd English, the only spa at sea operated by Canyon Ranch health resorts, the largest ballroom at sea, the largest library at sea, the largest wine collection at sea, a Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar, a two-story theatre, a casino, five indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs and children's facilities with British nannies. For more information about Cunard Line's new 2006 Path of Magellan voyages aboard Queen Mary 2, contact a travel professional, call 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to www.cunard.com.
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New Stage Show Aboard Disney Cruise Line Creates a Twist on Cinderella's Happily Ever After Story
CELEBRATION, FL, June 6 -- With a swish of a wand, several Bibbidi Bobbidi Boos and the turning of storybook pages, the brand new stage show aboard Disney Cruise Line -- "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" -- immerses audiences in a new rendition of the happily ever after story of Cinderella and her Prince Charming. Giving guests an opportunity to experience the story of Cinderella in a whole new way, the Broadway-style show recently made its theatrical debut in the Walt Disney Theatre aboard the Disney Magic cruise ship, just in time for the ship's special West Coast cruises honoring the 50th anniversary of the Disneyland park.
"This enchanting production brings some of the most beloved Disney characters to life in a compelling story the entire family can enjoy together," said Jim Urry, Director of Entertainment for Disney Cruise Line. "Everything from the music to the choreography to the incredible set designs and the humor and romance of the story will delight our guests."
With the story beginning where the original ended -- during the wedding celebration of Cinderella and Prince Charming, good fortune takes a turn when a new character, evil Fairy Godfather Franco DiFortunato, enters the picture on behalf of Lady Tremaine, Cinderella's stepmother. Granting Lady Tremaine's wish, he sends the family back in time to break Cinderella's glass slipper, thus destroying her chances of marrying the prince and writing a whole new story for Cinderella. The 52-minute production features a rich musical score with six original compositions and two classic Disney songs including the beloved "Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo" and "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes." With an accomplished cast, lavish costumes, elaborate set designs and special effects that cleverly turn back the pages of time, the combination seamlessly transitions the show from scene to scene.
"Twice Charmed" was created by Disney Creative Entertainment, which has also been responsible for the creation of "The Golden Mickeys" currently showing aboard Disney Cruise Line and two recent Disneyland productions, "Disney's Aladdin -- A Musical Spectacular" and "Snow White -- An Enchanting New Musical." Executive Vice President Anne Hamburger heads the group. Hamburger said, "The goal of our division, Disney Creative Entertainment, is to create great shows that will delight our guests in ways they have never before experienced. It is a combination of moving stories, heartfelt music and unforgettable stage imagery and design, which we bring to our guests at every performance."
As Disney's largest theatrical production ever aboard, the show includes a repertory cast of 21 performers who are well-versed in acting, singing and dancing. This cast not only performs "Twice Charmed," but is also responsible for the two other main stage shows performed in the Walt Disney Theatre throughout the cruise -- "The Golden Mickeys" and "Disney Dreams." Urry said, "We searched for a long time for the absolute best artistic talent we could find for the creation and production of 'Twice Charmed.' In addition, because the range of acting ability required to perform several shows on a ship is significant, we look for the best actors in the business." There are an additional nine crew members who perform technical roles backstage as part of these three shows helping to bring the Walt Disney Theatre to life. With 977 seats, the theatre is magnificent within itself, as the most technologically equipped show place at sea.
The book, lyrics and score for "Twice Charmed" were composed by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, who are among the most promising new composers and lyricists for musical theatre and are currently collaborating on an upcoming Broadway musical. The orchestrations and arrangements were by Alan Lee Silva and Timothy Mark Williams. "Twice Charmed" was directed by Joe Calarco, whose "Shakespeare's R & J," a re-telling of "Romeo and Juliet," was a hit off-Broadway in New York and was critically praised in Chicago, Washington, D.C., London and Tokyo. Karma Camp, who has both Broadway and off-Broadway credits, choreographed the show. She has choreographed more than 20 productions at Signature Theatre of Arlington, Va., and also developed the choreography for "Snow White -- An Enchanting New Musical" at Disneyland.
After its debut, "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" will continue to run aboard the Disney Magic cruise ship throughout 2005, as the ship returns back to her East Coast Caribbean itineraries. In addition to its special West Coast seven-night itinerary to the Mexican Riviera this summer, Disney Cruise Line offers seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruise vacations, three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas, and land/sea packages 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.
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Seabourn Caribbean Holiday Cruisers Get Three Wishes
MIAMI, June 6 - This year, Seabourn Pride and Seabourn Legend will offer holiday revelers their choice among three luxurious options: They can indulge in a traditional 16-day Seabourn Caribbean Holiday cruise that includes both Christmas and New Year's at special 50 percent savings, or they can celebrate either Christmas or New Year's separately, on one of two eight-day segments at savings of up to 34 percent. Both ships offer shorter cruises that begin or end at Caribbean island ports on December 26.
"We realize that there are travelers who want to cruise with us during the holidays, but who have also made other holiday plans with friends and family," said Seabourn president Deborah L. Natansohn. "These shorter cruises provide the option to enjoy a festive Seabourn cruise experience, including either the Christmas or the New Year's holiday, without requiring them to commit to both," she added.
Save up to 34% on a Christmas or a New Year's Cruise, or Save 50% on Both
Both all-suite ships will be sailing 16 days round trip from Ft. Lauderdale on December 18, 2005 to a bevy of inviting Caribbean island destinations. Seabourn Pride's itinerary will include visits to Cruz Bay, St. John and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as Charlestown, Nevis and Fort de France, Martinique, before spending Christmas day at sea en route to Castries, St. Lucia on December 26, where guests who wish to celebrate New Year's elsewhere may disembark. Guests who wish to celebrate only New Year's on board can embark at Castries and join those continuing on to Antigua; Virgin Gorda; St. Barts; St. Martin and San Juan, ending their cruise at Ft. Lauderdale on January 3, 2006.
Seabourn Legend's December 18 itinerary also includes San Juan, Cruz Bay, Antigua and Martinique, but the mid-point port for embarking or disembarking on December 26 is Bridgetown, Barbados. Those embarking for New Year's only will join the full cruise guests and visit St. George's, Grenada; Virgin Gorda; St. Martin and St. Thomas en route back to Ft. Lauderdale, arriving January 3, 2006.
Fares for the 16-day round trip cruises feature Cruise Only Savings of 50 percent off brochure fares, and start from $6,538 per person, based on double occupancy of a 277-square foot ocean-view suite. With Early Booking Savings of up to 34 percent, fares for the eight-day Holiday cruises start from $4,795 per person, double occupancy. For information, contact your travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com
Guests on any of these Caribbean Holiday cruises will enjoy an array of thoughtful enhancements to shipboard and shoreside services called Signature Delights that add luxury and value for guests aboard the three 208-guest Yachts of Seabourn: Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend. Signature Delights include complimentary service of spirits and wines, including French champagne throughout every cruise, gourmet cuisine created by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, indulgent Pure Pampering therapeutic bathing selections from Molton Brown and an Exclusively Seabourn complimentary shoreside experience on every cruise.
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Free Air, 10% Cabin Discounts on Cruises to South Africa, Indian Ocean Islands on Deilmann's Luxurious Deutschland
NEW YORK, June 2, 2005 Peter Deilmann Cruises is offering free air transportation and 10 percent discounts on staterooms on the luxury liner MS Deutschland on three ocean voyages of 15 and 16 nights to Sout Africa and Indian Ocean islands in January and February 2006. Passengers from the U.S. fly free roundtrip to South Africa and Mauritius from 16 U.S. cities. The air is just $50 from 21 cities in the Midwest and $150 from 15 cities in the West. Four of South Africas port cities -- Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban, East London or Richards Bay -- as well as the countryside, vineyards and unrivaled wildlife and sea life are on the three itineraries. Other ports visited are in Namibia and Kenya and the islands of Mauritius, Zanzibar, Madagascar, Réunion and Mayotte.
U.S. travelers who book these Grand Hotel Voyages will get 10 percent savings on any stateroom with rates starting at $4,626 for 15 nights. Together with the 10 percent cabin savings, Deilmann offers a 50% reduction on pre-purchased English-language shore excursions and free airport/ship transfers. The cruise reductions and free air save travelers $1,500 to $2,500 on these cruises.
A classic ocean liner, launched in 1998 and refurbished each year, the Deutschland has 286 staterooms and is classically decorated in art nouveau and art deco styles reminiscent of the early days of grand ocean travel. Dining on board rates highly with passengers and with the prestigious Chaine des Rotisseurs organization. The nine-deck ship offers three different restaurants, formal and informal, an outdoor dining terrace on the Lido Deck, intimate salons with music and friendly cafes. The high level of service adds to passengers comfort with a 2-to-1 ratio of passengers to crew.
Outdoor and indoor swimming pools, three sun decks, open-air promenade deck, plush theater for film screenings and lectures, fitness center, sauna, Turkish bath, elegant, chandeliered ballroom with dancing and international revue shows, shopping boutique, beauty salon with massage therapy and infirmary are other features of the ship. Staterooms are well appointed with ample storage space, color TV, mini-bars, bathrobes and slippers and bathrooms offer quality cosmetic products and hairdryers. Passengers are greeted on arrival with champagne and a gift tote bag.
The cruise savings and free or nearly free airfare offer passengers a luxury cruise experience at value prices. For single travelers, the Deutschland also offers a large number of single cabins 67 and charges considerably less for single supplements than other cruise lines. For more details on the cruises, contact a travel agent or Peter Deilmann Cruises. For the Deutschland sailings, see the Grand Hotel Voyages brochure online at www.deilmann-cruises.com. For Peter Deilmann Cruises, call 1-800-348-8287 or e-mail
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Second Annual Mind/Body Cruise Aboard Carnival Pride Showcases Fitness, Health & Fun
MIAMI Guests sailing aboard Carnival Pride for the second annual Mind/Body Cruise will be able to rejuvenate their mind, body and spirit with a faculty of experts from Shape and Mens Fitness magazines. The seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise, which will operate round-trip from Long Beach, Calif., Oct. 23-30, 2005, will feature informative and enlightening health, fitness and nutritional seminars to help participants look and feel their best.
The mind/body experts participating in this voyage represent a collective whos who in the fitness industry:
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Jeffrey Scott a Reebok University global master trainer and an international fitness presenter who has starred in more than 20 fitness videos and has made numerous television appearances including Wake Up New York and NBCs Today morning show.
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Tracy York a 15-year fitness professional, master trainer and personal trainer who has appeared in more than 30 exercise videos, York has served as a fitness expert and spokesperson for Kelloggs and 24 Hour Fitness, and co-hosted ESPNs popular exercise show, The ESPN Fitness Pros.
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Teri Hanson a personal trainer and group fitness instructor for more than 20 years, including 10 years as a cruise ship fitness director, Hanson is currently assistant fitness editor for Weider Publications, contributing to such magazines as Shape, Natural Health and Fit Pregnancy.
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Elizabeth Somer the author of several books, including The Origin Diet, Food and Mood and Nutrition for Women, and a contributing editor to Shape magazine, Somers is a consultant for NBCs Today and a former nutrition correspondent on ABCs Good Morning America.
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Maria and Kent Burden authors of the award-winning book, Yin Yang Fitness: The Whole Package of Health, and creators of a series of mind and body DVDs, the Burdens have appeared on television in both the U.S. and U.K., including Access Hollywood, BBCs Life and Times and Spa Finder TV.
Carnival experienced great success with the first Mind/Body Cruise because todays consumers place such a high emphasis on health and well-being, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. For the second Mind/Body Cruise, weve put together an impressive group of fitness experts who will help guests take full advantage of their wide-ranging knowledge and expertise.
Commented Teri Hanson, assistant fitness editor for Shape who is also the program director for this year's sailing, I have chosen a team of experts who have been featured in our magazines numerous times. Together, we will bring the pages of Shape and Men's Fitness to life with fun and interactive classes that will sculpt the body and rejuvenate the spirit."
While on board, the experts will put participants through their paces in a series of heart-pumping workouts with energetic fat-burning and body-sculpting classes, including Beach Body Workout, Pilates Sculpt, Strength Training and Circuit Training. Home-based gym workout plans will provide guests with fitness regimens to continue after their cruise.
For those looking to jumpstart their body from the inside, a series of interactive, informative and motivating nutrition lectures, including The Real Simple Diet and How to Age-Proof Your Body, will be presented by the nationally recognized experts. No transformation would be complete without a boost to the spirit, and the experts will offer invigorating tai chi, qigong and yoga classes taught on deck in the breezy sea air. Participants will return home refreshed with a deeper understanding of personal health and fitness. Sponsors taking part in the cruise include Special K, Pria, Campbells, Lipton Ice Tea, Yasmin, Uniball Pens, Snickers Marathon and Cuervo.
The round-trip voyage from Long Beach also calls at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Cruise fares begin at $799 per person, double occupancy. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com
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Princess Introduces First Two-Ship South America Season
in 2006-07
SANTA CLARITA, CA -- More Princess passengers than ever before will be able to escape to the exotic lands of South America in 2006 and 2007 as the line positions both the Grand-class Golden Princess and the intimate Pacific Princess in the region. Together the vessels will offer Princess' first two-ship South America season, with Golden Princess sailing around the fabled Cape Horn and Pacific Princess traversing the mighty Amazon River.
From December 2006 to March 2007 the ships will sail on 12 voyages of seven itineraries visiting 47 destinations, including three new routes and two new ports for Princess--Salaverry, Peru and St. Barthélemy. Golden Princess' deployment features not only the popular Cape Horn & Straits of Magellan voyage, but also an enhanced Andes & South America cruise, a new Brazilian Adventure voyage from New Orleans to Rio and Princess' Connoisseur voyage featuring Antarctica and South America. Pacific Princess will sail up the Amazon River as well as offer two new Andes cruises to Peru.
"This South America program really offers the ultimate in choice," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "Passengers can opt for the many amenities and private balconies of Golden Princess as they sail among the breathtaking Chilean fjords or they can enjoy the true intimate atmosphere of our world traveler, Pacific Princess, as she navigates the Amazon River. Either way, they'll enjoy the adventure of a lifetime."
Itinerary options for Princess Cruises' 2006-07 South America season include:
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Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan - A 12-day journey between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Santiago, Chile, this classic adventure features remarkable natural beauty from the peaks of the Andes Mountains to a coastline carved by deep fjords. Not only will passengers follow the route of the ancient mariners around the continent's southernmost tip, but will visit Montevideo (Uruguay), The Falkland Islands, Ushuaia (Argentina), Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt (Chile). Golden Princess will offer three sailings on this voyage on February 12, 24 and March 8, 2007.
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Amazon River - This 12-day sailing up the world's largest river takes passengers between Ft. Lauderdale and Manaus, Brazil, taking in several Brazilian ports as well as the unusual Caribbean calls of St. Lucia, Trinidad and St. Bartélemy - a new port for Princess. Pacific Princess will also call at Devil's Island, off the coast of French Guiana and the Amazon River ports of Santarem, Boca da Valeria and Manaus, where passengers will enjoy an overnight stay. Pacific Princess sails on this itinerary on January 20, February 1, 13 and 25, 2007.
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Andes & South America - The lure of Machu Picchu highlights this 16-day voyage from Santiago to Acapulco, with time allowed for an optional excursion to these mysterious ruins. This adventurous cruise features calls at La Serena (Chile), Arica (Chile), San Martin (Peru - for Pisco and Machu Picchu), Lima (Peru), Quito (Equador), Fuerte Amador (for the Panama Canal), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), and Huatulco (Mexico). Golden Princess departs on this itinerary on March 20, 2007.
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Andes/Pathway to Peru - A new route between Aruba and Lima, this 15-day adventure features a full transit of the Panama Canal, the west coast of Central America, Ecuador and Peru. The exotic ports of call include San Blas, San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Guayquil (Equador) and Salaverry, Peru - a new port for Princess and the gateway to the colonial city of Trujillo and the ruins of the ancient imperial city of Chan Chan. Pacific Princess sails on December 21, 2006.
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Andes & Ancient Civilizations - A new 15-day itinerary from Lima to Ft. Lauderdale featuring ports steeped in history from the ancient civilizations of the Inca, Carib Indians, Maya and the Spanish conquistadors. Pacific Princess will visit Guayaquil, San Blas, Limon (Costa Rica), Roatan, Belize, Cozumel and transit the Panama Canal, departing on January 5, 2007.
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Brazilian Adventure - A 16-day opportunity to travel from the "Big Easy" of New Orleans to the excitement of Rio de Janeiro. This new itinerary includes calls at Grand Cayman, Aruba, Isla Margarita, Trinidad, Devil's Island, and the Brazilian ports of Fortaleza and Salvador plus an overnight stay in Rio. Golden Princess offers this voyage on January 6, 2007.
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Antarctica & South America - A 21-day Connoisseur Voyage, this dramatic journey features a new route for Princess' fourth journey to the southernmost continent. Traveling from Rio de Janiero to Buenos Aires, Golden Princess will visit Puerto Madryn and the Falkland Islands, before crossing Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where passengers will enjoy several days of cruising with striking views of the islands, straits and channels of Antarctica. The ship will also sail around Cape Horn and to the ports of Ushuaia, Punta Arenas and Montevideo. Golden Princess will depart on this cruise on January 22, 2007.
For travelers who would like to extend their South America adventure, Princess offers escorted pre- or post-cruise land tours in conjunction with several sailings, for a complete cruisetour vacation. Early booking fares for South America sailings begin at $1,695 for 12-day sailings. Cruises open for booking on June 11, 2005. Additional information is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com
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Take the Family on MSC Cruises This Summer for an Enriching European Experience
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -- A sailing on an MSC Cruises ship in the Mediterranean is sure to make this summers family vacation memorable. This summer, six of the lines ships are sailing to ports in Italy, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Balearic Islands, Malta, Croatia and Tunisia, offering unforgettable experiences with something for each member of the whole family.
MSC Cruises recognizes the importance of family values and places a strong emphasis on being family-friendly, says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises USA. Our Italian officers and staff create an environment that allows all our guests no matter what their age to enjoy a vacation like no other.
Guests both young and old alike will have the opportunity to explore destinations they may have only read about in text books. MSC Cruises helps history and geography come alive with visits to such landmarks as the canals of Venice, the site of the Yalta Conference, the Roman Coliseum, the Acropolis in Athens and the birthplace of Christopher Columbus in Genoa.
In addition to the Italian officers and international crew, guests on MSC Cruises Mediterranean itineraries come from around the world, creating a truly international experience. For families whose roots are in the Mediterranean region, MSC Cruises is a wonderful multi-generational vacation a way to share a journey back in time and to reconnect with a familys heritage.
The entire family can enjoy a vacation with a truly Italian flavor while visiting some of Europes most memorable destinations, says Sasso. The adults can relax knowing that, while they are working out in the gym, being pampered in the spa or swimming on deck, the youngsters are enjoying themselves, too, participating in age-appropriate activities and facilities designed especially for them under the watchful eye of trained counselors.
In addition to staterooms that accommodate as many as four people, family suites with separate rooms for children can be found on the MSC Opera, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia. Special rates are available for the third and fourth person (age 12 and younger) sharing a stateroom with two adults. Since accommodations, onboard meals (featuring authentic Italian dishes, international delights and a childrens menu featuring younger-set favorites such as hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza) and European-style entertainment on the ship is included, Mom and Dad wont have to worry about exchange rates they will know the bulk of their vacations cost before setting sail.
This fall, when the teacher asks your children what they did on their summer vacation, they will be able to say they had the trip of a lifetime on MSC Cruises, says Sasso. For more information about MSC Cruises, visit www.msccruises.com or a travel agent.
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Carnival to Hold Month-Long Spectacular Sale With Rates for Selected Departures Starting at $279 Per Person
MIAMI, June 1, 2005 With Carnival Cruise Lines month-long Spectacular Sale, consumers can take advantage of outstanding Fun Ship cruise bargains, with complimentary two-category upgrades and rates starting as low as $279 per person. The special promotion, which runs from June 1-30, 2005, offers discounted rates on virtually all Fun Ship cruises departing between August 14, 2005, and April 2, 2006, holidays included.
Rates for three-day cruises are available starting at $279 per person, four-day cruises $349 per person, five-day cruises $399 per person, six-day cruises $479 per person, seven-day cruises $549 per person, and eight-day cruises $699 per person, based on double occupancy. Cruises depart from 11 different North American embarkation points.
A Fun Ship cruise is already an incredible value and this Spectacular Sale makes a great deal even better. And with more North American departure points than any other cruise line, getting to and from a Fun Ship cruise is more convenient than ever, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
Valid on new individual bookings only. Consumers must request fare code CP2J to be eligible for this promotion. Promotion is capacity controlled and not applicable with any other discount offer. Minimum purchase of category 4A required and the two-category upgrade is available within like stateroom categories (interior to interior, ocean view to ocean view, balcony to balcony).
Carnival Cruise Lines currently has two 110,000-ton SuperLiners Carnival Liberty and Carnival Freedom scheduled to enter service between now and February 2007. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com
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Royal Caribbean Adds 73-Foot Midsection to
Enchantment of the Seas
MIAMI -- Shipbuilding technology has come a long way since Royal Caribbean International lengthened its last ship 25 years ago. Royal Caribbean's third ship to be extended, Enchantment of the Seas, lies in dry dock this month, where workmen are laboring round-the-clock to add a 22.2-meter (73-foot) midsection and other major innovations. What once took three months now takes one, and assembly is on dry land.
Royal Caribbean teamed with two European shipyards to stretch the eight- year-old Enchantment of the Seas. Aker Finnyards of Finland, which built the original ship, was given overall responsibility for designing, building and installing the mid-body section. Aker asked Keppel Verolme of Rotterdam, The Netherlands, to split the ship in two, insert the midsection, and reassemble the parts. When again whole, Enchantment of the Seas will return to sea for sea trials and soon afterwards will resume service on July 7, 2005.
"This partnership has been outstanding," said Royal Caribbean Chairman and CEO Richard Fain. "The final product exemplifies not only the very best in shipbuilding, but the very best in what cruisers have come to expect of a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation."
Planning among the three teams began more than a year ago. Construction started on the mid-body last September, and the finished mid-body sailed the Baltic and North seas by barge 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) to Rotterdam earlier this month. Meanwhile, Enchantment of the Seas arrived May 15 at the Keppel Verolme yard and entered dry dock, where the mid-body was waiting. The size of the dry-dock bay, one of the largest in the world, allowed the ship and mid-body to sit side-by-side, and allowed for use of an advanced and faster lengthening process.
Splitting the ship in two took workers six days to cut through more than 600 meters (1,969 linear feet) of steel with gas and oxygen torches and circular saws. Once they were severed, sections were moved into place with skids and hydraulic jacks, which were guided by a laser alignment system. The 10,265-metric-ton (11,315-ton) bow section slid first. The 2,666-metric-ton (2,939-ton) mid-body was then moved into alignment and pushed back toward the ship's aft section. The bow section was then moved back into place.
Twenty-five years ago, when Royal Caribbean stretched Nordic Prince, the yard had to fill the dry dock with water; float the aft section of the ship out of the bay, the midsection into the dock, and the aft section back into the bay; and then drain the dry dock and reconnect the ship. Today, workmen are welding Enchantment of the Seas back together, a painstaking, two-week job that also involves reattaching nearly 1,300 individual cables, pipes and ducts to each end of the new mid-body.
Additional Space For New Amenities, Activities
The lengthened ship will have 151 new staterooms and a number of new venues and amenities, including soaring suspension bridges on Deck 10, a vitality course with four fitness stops, an interactive water fountain play area and the first bungee trampolines at sea. Several of Royal Caribbean's signature features also are being added, borrowing from the line's latest ships, including Boleros Latin lounge, Chops Grille steakhouse specialty restaurant and Latte'tudes coffee and ice cream shop, offering Seattle's Best Coffee® and Ben & Jerry's®.
Enchantment of the Seas will sail a series of New England/Canada sailings from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, N.J., Philadelphia and Boston when she reenters service in July. She returns to Fort Lauderdale in October to resume four- and five-night Caribbean itineraries. Additional information can be found on the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or by calling 800-327-6700.
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New Carnival Comfort Bed Sleep System Highlights Stateroom Amenities Upgrades
MIAMI A new stateroom sleep system manufactured exclusively for Carnival Cruise Lines is the latest in a series of cabin amenity upgrades that are part of the Todays Carnival fleetwide product enhancement program. The Carnival Comfort Bed ensemble, including custom pillows, duvet and cover, pillowcases and mattress set, provides an unsurpassed level of lavishness in shipboard sleep accommodations. Introduction of the new bedding system, already on several ships, is ongoing and is expected to be implemented fleetwide by the end of the year.
A restful, luxurious sleep is an important component of the vacation experience and we are extremely excited about this opportunity to brand a high-quality sleep system with the Carnival name, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. Over the past decade, we have enhanced nearly every aspect of the shipboard experience. As our guests have become more discerning, we have implemented these upgrades in our ongoing commitment to continue to exceed their expectations.
Manufactured in Europe, the Carnival Comfort Bed features an eight-inch spring mattress designed exclusively for Carnival Cruise Lines. Completing the custom sleep system is a duvet made from 100 percent hypoallergenic down and sheets made of a high quality cotton blend. The duvet covers and pillowcases are of an ultra-fine, ring-spun, satin-striped cotton blend, creating a luxurious and comfortable sleep environment. The material is also highly durable for long-lasting use and attractiveness.
New Generation Pillows, made of non-allergenic micro fiber to create a fluffy, down-like consistency, will be featured in all staterooms. In suite accommodations a special "suite pillow menu" will offer guests the choice of a variety of different pillow types for their sleeping comfort, including a luxury goose down and a firm latex pillow.
Among other stateroom upgrades that have been incorporated on Carnivals ships are high-quality fluffy bath and hand towels, plush terrycloth bathrobes in all ocean view staterooms, in-shower soap and shampoo dispensers, and in-cabin amenities baskets containing a variety of name-brand product samples. Stainless steel ice buckets and attractively bound directories round out the new high-end feel of each stateroom. Information and reservations on Carnivals Fun Ship cruises are available by contacting any travel agent, calling 1-800-CARNIVAL or visiting www.carnival.com.
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Paul Theroux + Linda Ellerbee + 40 New Crystal Adventures + 5 Diverse Itineraries = Crystal's Rich Fall Mediterranean Season
LOS ANGELES -- This fall, Crystal Cruises' Crystal Visions® Enrichment Program lectures, classes and shoreside Crystal Adventures are as rich as its Mediterranean port content. Travel/fiction writer Paul Theroux and broadcast journalist/author Linda Ellerbee are among the notable speakers joining Crystal Serenity's fall Mediterranean cruises. Ashore, luxury specialist Crystal Cruises is introducing 40 new Crystal Adventures to its roster of almost 200 varied tours in the Mediterranean from September through November.
Five diverse 11- and 12-day itineraries offer the luxury of exploring as many as six different countries on a single voyage. Each features at least one overnight and evening stays in port. Cruises depart from Venice, Athens, Rome or Barcelona and visit such romantic destinations as the south of France, Greek islands, and seaside towns in Turkey, Croatia and the Amalfi Coast.
"With fewer crowds and slightly cooler weather, the fall is an ideal time to visit the Mediterranean," says Bill Smith, Crystal's senior vice president, sales and marketing. "Additionally, savvy travelers will appreciate the exceptional value of a 2005 European cruise on Crystal Cruises, given the dollar's weak standing against the Euro and the resulting high prices of Europe's top luxury hotels. Crystal Serenity's unique combination of choices, quality, service, space and value is particularly compelling this year."
Crystal Serenity's fall Mediterranean season is abundant in stimulating lectures, classes and evening entertainment on board, as well as special interest, limited availability experiences ashore. New authentic culinary experiences, exclusive enrichment and even adrenaline-filled adventures include:
* Amarone wine tasting and local fare at a renowned Tuscan villa (from Venice);
* A private tour of the Vatican Museum (from Rome);
* Advanced and beginning scuba diving in Sorrento's Punta Campanella;
* Helicopter tours of the Dolomites (from Venice) and the Amalfi Coast (from Sorrento);
* Off-road 4x4 excursions in Valletta and Funchal; and,
* Zipping around Nice on a Segway® Human Transporter.
And golf at some of the world's most renowned courses:
* Malaga's venerable Real Club de Campo;
* The Jack Nicklaus-designed course at the Montecastillo Hotel & Golf Resort in Cadiz;
* The Green Course at Casablanca's Dar Es-Salam Royal Golf Club;
* The superb Real Club de Golf de Tenerife; and,
* Lisbon's stunning Penha Longa Golf Course.
All shore tours can be researched and pre-reserved online at www.crystalcruises.com prior to departure.
With Crystal Visions® Enrichment Program lecture series, the onboard experience is as rich as the port content. Highlights include:
September 8 - 20; 12 days; Rome to Venice; and September 20 - October 2; 12 days; Venice to Athens
* Dr. Lewis A. Sussman, professor of Classics at the University of Florida, provides insight into the history of the Greek and Roman worlds.
* Richard Karras of the Society of Wine Educators shares his extensive knowledge of the region's best vintages.
* Progressive classes in Italian are taught by a certified Berlitz language instructor (offered on all five fall itineraries).
October 2 - 14; 12 days; Athens to Rome
* Linda Ellerbee, multi-Emmy Award-winning television producer and author of the new memoir Take Big Bites: Adventures Around the World and Across the Table, provides a look at her life including her successful fight against breast cancer.
* Paul Theroux, renowned travel novelist discusses his acclaimed books.
* Dr. Howard Clarke, professor Emeritus of Classics at the University of California, Santa Barbara shares his insight on Greek and Roman mythology.
October 14 - 25; 11 days; Rome to Barcelona; Sotheby's Institute Cruise
* Chantal Brotherton-Ratcliffe is a respected Old Master paintings expert at Sotheby's Institute of Art in London.
* Corrado Amice, Italian tenor, performs favorite arias of his homeland.
October 25 - November 6; 12 days; Barcelona to Lisbon; Golf Cruise
* Susan Reed, editor in chief of Golf for Women, is joined by a PGA golf pro to host play at some of the world's most established courses (listed above).
Depending on itinerary, ports of call include: Nice/Villefranche, France (overnight); Monte Carlo, Monaco (overnight); Florence/Livorno, Portofino, Sardinia/Porto Cervo, Sorrento, Naples and Sicily/Taormina, Italy; Corfu and Mykonos, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; Dubrovnik and Split, Croatia; Valletta, Malta; Malaga/Granada, Palma de Mallorca, Cadiz/Seville and Canary Islands, Spain; Gibraltar, UK; Casablanca, Morocco; and Madeira/Funchal and Portimao, Portugal. Eleven- and 12-day cruise fares begin at just $3,695 and $3,995, respectively, and are based on per person, double occupancy accommodations.
The Crystal Difference
Aboard the luxurious Crystal Serenity refined elegance meets casual simplicity. With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is distinguished by classic service, abundant space, extensive choice, and quality, providing worldwide vacations that bridge the best of land and sea.
The 1,080-guest, 68,000-ton Crystal Serenity is among the most spacious and luxurious vessels cruising in the luxury market. Its unique size allows for smooth sailing and a wide range of innovative facilities, generous amenities and elegant accommodations. Her luxurious features include grand lounges, a lavish spa outfitted in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, extensive exercise facilities, complimentary golf, yoga and Pilates instruction, specialty restaurants (Nobu's cuisine at Silk Road), the only Caesars Palace at Sea® casino afloat, and the popular 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.
For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com
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Windstar's New 7-Day Uncommon Caribbean Cruises Explore Secluded Islands, Unspoiled Beaches & Charming Ports of Call, Round-Trip from Barbados
Seattle, WA Windstar Cruises 308-passenger motor sailing yacht Wind Surf sets sail this winter for warm waters with new itineraries that explore the far reaches of the Caribbean. Round trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the beautifully appointed Wind Surf cruises deep into the heart of the lower Caribbean, exploring secluded islands and unique ports of call. Whether on a northbound or southbound itinerary, Windstar guests visit enchanting places like the Grenadines, St. Barthelemy, Tobago, Bequia, St. Martin and Grenada.
Between December 2005 and April 2006, the Wind Surf will operate a total of 17 cruises round trip from Bridgetown including two holiday cruises departing December 18 and December 28, 2005. The Wind Surfs 7-day itineraries have been specially designed to give guests the option of combining two back to back cruises into a 14-day cruise with no repeating ports of call. The ships northbound itinerary features Nevis, St. Martin, St. Barts, Guadaloupe, Iles des Saintes and Pigeon Island (St. Lucia). The southbound itinerary calls on Tobago, Grenada, Bequia, Roseau and Cabrits (Dominica), and Mayreau (Grenadines).
This is the laid back Caribbean of quiet, unspoiled islands, small ports and secluded beaches, says Jim McHugh, vice president of marketing and sales for Windstar Cruises. The Wind Surf is perfect for the deep Caribbean, with her small size, dramatic sails, and an onboard atmosphere of casual elegance.
Among the many highlights for guests to choose from are: snorkeling among the crystal clear waters of Tobago, exploring ultra-chic French boutiques in St. Barts, scuba diving off Pigeon Island, racing a genuine Americas Cup yacht in French St. Martin, kicking back at the beach in Dutch St. Maarten, or simply relaxing onboard to enjoy a soothing massage in the ships WindSpa.
Windstar has crafted a variety of optional shore excursions that feature romance, adventure and exploration of some of the Caribbeans loveliest beaches, parks and scenic attractions. Excursions include a private picnic for two in Nevis, an adventurous catamaran cruise along the coast of St. Barts, snorkeling in the Grenadines, one of the most serene and inviting spots in the Caribbean, or horseback riding in Barbados, among others.
At anchor, the Wind Surfs unique water sports platform opens aft to allow guests the complimentary use of sailboards, sailboats and kayaks, as well as water-skiing and rides on the ships banana boat. Snorkeling equipment can be checked out for the week and is also complimentary. The deep Caribbean is a scuba divers paradise and Windstars staff of PADI-certified instructors lead dives on underwater adventures featuring some of the best sites in the region. Dives are available for a fee for both novice and experienced divers. A Discover scuba diving program teaches the basics in a classroom and pool session followed by an open water dive with the instructor.
Windstar Cruises 148-passenger Wind Spirit also heads for warm waters this winter, with 18 seven-day cruises roundtrip from St. Thomas. Ports of call include St. Martin, St. Barts, Tortola, and Jost Van Dyke, with overnights at St. John and Virgin Gorda. Cruise rates vary depending on itinerary and date of departure. For more information including brochures, rates and detailed itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar Cruises at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com
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Unless otherwise noted, all news items are sourced by individual cruise lines, cruise-related industries, and their agents.
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