Cruise News from Cruise Diva Linda Coffman's Cruise Planner

For schedule changes & departure information on a specific cruise line or port of call, please select Latest Updates by Cruise Line

FLY FREE TO SEABOURN PRIDE SOUTH AMERICA CRUISES
Plus Early Booking Savings up to 35 Percent on Inca Coast, Amazon Cruises

MIAMI, August 14, 2002 - Ultra luxury Seabourn Cruise Line is offering free roundtrip coach class airfare from 28 North American gateways to two different Seabourn Pride cruises of South America in 2003. The airfare offer represents additional savings of up to $1,795 per person for these 16- and 18-day cruises aboard the intimate, all-suite ship.

Guests choosing the January 4th, 2003 Treasures of the Inca Coast cruise will sail from Fort Lauderdale to Valparaíso (Santiago) Chile. The ports of call include a transit of the Panama Canal; Manta (Quito), Ecuador; Callao (Lima) and Paracas Bay, Peru and Arica, Iquique and Coquimbo, Chile.

At Manta, Ecuador, an included Exclusively Seabourn shoreside experience comprises an invitation to cocktails and folkloric entertainment in the private villa of one of the town's leading citizens.

Touring opportunities along the way also include visits to Quito, Cuzco and Machu Picchu; the Atacama Desert; flightseeing over the mysterious Nazca Lines and a visit to the largest astronomical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.

Early Booking Savings of up to 35 percent mean fares for the 18-day cruise start from $6,997 per person, including free airfare. Business class upgrades from $995 are available for the return flight from Santiago. An extension to Easter Island is available.

Additionally, a 16-day Amazon and Caribbean Isles cruise departs March 1, 2003 from Manaus, Brazil, nearly a thousand miles upriver from the sea. Guests will experience the heart of this tropical paradise in the remote, jungle-clad islands of Anavilhanas Archipelago, and witness indigenous cultures at the river town of Parintíns.

At Alter do Chão, guests will enjoy rare exhibitions of ritual dancing by local indigenous people during an included Exclusively Seabourn shoreside experience.

Devil's Island, once a notorious penal colony, provides a kinder welcome than in times past. Then the Caribbean islands of Barbados and St. Thomas lead the way on to Fort Lauderdale. Early Booking Savings of up to 30 percent mean fares start from $5,933 per person, double, including free roundtrip airfare.

MIAMI, Aug. 14 - Celebrity Cruises will mark its fifth season of cruising in Europe next year by deploying three ships and launching the first season of the premium cruise line's exclusive cruisetours in the region.

Celebrity's new Europe cruisetour packages feature classic destinations such as Paris and London, in addition to Mediterranean favorites, including Madrid, Seville and Barcelona, Spain; Rome, Florence and Siena, Italy, and Venice and the Italian Lakes.

"Our new series of cruisetours allows travelers to experience the rich history and culture of some of the world's most famous destinations in depth, either before or after enjoying the best premium cruise experience in the industry on any of three spectacular Celebrity ships," said Celebrity's Senior Vice President of Fleet Operations, Dietmar Wertanzl.

The land-based segments of Celebrity's cruisetour packages are available pre- or post-cruise and include locally sourced tour directors, all transfers, flights and train tickets (if applicable), along with breakfasts and some lunches and/or dinners. Cruisetour packages range from 11 to 17 nights, with fares beginning at $2,210 per person, double occupancy.

The cruisetours accompany sailings on all three Celebrity ships in Europe next year: Millennium, Century and Constellation. Bookings are open for Celebrity's entire 2003 season in Europe, with itineraries in the Mediterranean, British Isles, Scandinavia and Russia. Cruise-only fares begin at $1,000 per person, double occupancy.

Constellation's 2003 Europe Itineraries
The ninth and newest ship to join the Celebrity fleet, Constellation will sail 14-night round-trip itineraries from Dover, England, on May 10 and 24, June 7, and August 2 and 16, 2003. Ports of call include Oslo, Norway; Stockholm, Sweden; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tallinn, Estonia; Rostock (Berlin), Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark.

On June 21, Constellation departs on a 14-night Scandinavia/Russia cruise from Dover to Stockholm, with ports of call in Paris; Oslo; Copenhagen; Rostock (Berlin), Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland; Tallinn; St. Petersburg and Helsinki.

The last of Constellation's series of Scandinavia/Russia cruises departs on July 5, from Stockholm to Dover. Ports of call on the 14-night itinerary include Riga, Latvia; Helsinki; St. Petersburg; Tallinn; Gdynia (for Gdansk); Copenhagen, and Oslo.

Constellation departs from Dover, England, on July 19 for a 14-night round-trip cruise through the British Isles and Norwegian Fjords. Ports of call include Paris; Ringaskiddy (for Cork), Ireland; Greenock (for Glasgow), Scotland; Geiranger, Hellesylt, Olden, and Bergen, Norway; Copenhagen, and Zeebrugge (for Brussels), Belgium.

On August 30, Constellation embarks on a 13-night "Best of Europe" cruise from Dover to Barcelona, Spain, with stops in Zeebrugge (for Brussels); Paris; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Cadiz and Palma De Mallorca, Spain; Livorno (for Florence/Pisa), Italy; and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo), France.

Constellation concludes its European season with a series of 10-night Mediterranean voyages round-trip from Barcelona on September 12 and October 3, featuring visits to Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); Civitavecchia (for Rome) and Naples, Italy; Messina, Sicily; Valletta, Malta; and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo), France.

On September 22 and October 13, Constellation departs round-trip from Barcelona for 11-night sailings to Villefranche (Nice/Monte Carlo); Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy; Messina, Naples and Rome.

Constellation embarks on a 15-night transatlantic voyage from Barcelona on October 24, bound for San Juan, Puerto Rico. Ports of call include Villefranche; Malaga, Spain; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Lisbon, Portugal; Funchal, Madeira; St. John's, Antigua, and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.

From November 8, 2003 through April 17, 2004, Constellation will present seven-night Caribbean cruises departing San Juan every Saturday, with ports of call in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; St. John's, and St. Thomas.

Millennium's 2003 Europe Itineraries
Celebrity's 1,950-guest Millennium begins its 2003 season in Europe with 12-night Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona to Venice, departing May 11, June 4 and 28, August 15, September 8, and October 2, 2003. Ports of call include Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo); Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); Civitavecchia (for Rome); Naples; Santorini, Greece; and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Millennium sails a similar, 11-night cruise departing Barcelona on July 22 and concluding in Venice, calling on Piraeus (for Athens), Greece, instead of Livorno (for Florence/Pisa).

Millennium sets sail on a 12-night itinerary from Venice to Barcelona on May 23, June 16, July 10, August 27, September 20 and October 14. Ports of call include Dubrovnik; Piraeus (for Athens); Santorini; Naples; Civitavecchia (for Rome); Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo).

On August 2, Millennium sails a 13-night voyage from Venice to Barcelona, with ports of call in Dubrovnik; Corfu, Piraeus (for Athens) and Santorini, Greece; Naples, Civitavecchia (for Rome) and Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo).

On October 26, Millennium departs Barcelona on a 14-night transatlantic voyage to Fort Lauderdale. Ports of call include Gibraltar; Funchal; Philipsburg; and St. Thomas.

Millennium launches a series of seven-night Caribbean cruises round-trip from Fort Lauderdale every Sunday from November 9, 2003 through April 18, 2004. Ports of call include San Juan; Catalina/Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, and Nassau, Bahamas.

Century's 2003 Itineraries
Celebrity's 1,750-guest Century embarks on its European season with a 16- night transatlantic voyage departing Fort Lauderdale on May 17, 2003, ending in Civitavecchia (for Rome), with visits to Nassau, Bahamas; St. Thomas; Funchal; Gibraltar; Malaga, and Barcelona.

Century then embarks on a variety of European cruises, beginning with 11- night voyage from Civitavecchia (for Rome) on June 2, with ports of call in Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes, Greece; Istanbul and Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Turkey; Piraeus (for Athens), and Naples. The itinerary repeats on June 23, July 14, and August 4 and 25.

Century will sail a series of 10-night round-trip cruises from Civitavecchia (for Rome) on June 13, July 4 and 25, and August 15, with calls on Naples; Santorini; Mykonos; Valletta; Barcelona, and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo).

On September 5, 21 and 28, and October 5 and 12, Century embarks on nine- night cruises from Rome to Barcelona with visits to Naples; Santorini; Mykonos; Valletta; and Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo).

On September 14, Century begins a series of seven-night, round-trip Mediterranean cruises with ports of call in Villefranche (for Nice/Monte Carlo); Livorno (for Florence/Pisa); Civitavecchia (for Rome); Naples, and Valletta.

Century returns to the Caribbean with a 13-night transatlantic voyage departing Barcelona on October 19, with ports of call in Malaga; Gibraltar; Funchal, and Nassau, concluding in Fort Lauderdale.

The highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, Celebrity Cruises' nine-ship fleet is the youngest of any major cruise line. Celebrity Cruises sails in Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii and the Panama Canal. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.

MIAMI (08/14/02) - A "pub crawl" on the new Carnival Legend will take adventurous guests on a legendary journey from the age of myth to a New Orleans jazz club and a cozy sports bar with images of famous athletes. The central theme of the newest of Carnival's 88,500-ton, 2,124-passenger Spirit class "Fun Ships" is great legends of the world. Slated to debut in Harwich, England, Aug. 24, Carnival Legend sports 16 lounges and bars with a variety of themes and unique atmospheres to fit any mood or taste.

An appropriate starting point for legendary libations is the bar in the nine-deck-high Colossus Atrium. Perhaps a glass of grappa would be the drink of choice in this bar, which is dominated by a towering mural of the Colossus of Rhodes on the atrium wall. Deemed one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the great bronze statue was erected in Rhodes 2,400 years ago. The mural depicts the statue standing at the harbor entrance surrounded by Greek triremes with the city of Rhodes in the background. Stylized Greek vases and neoclassical elements create an ambiance of high style.

During the day, Lido Deck provides a medieval theme in the Avalon Bar, located mid-ship and serving a variety of frothy, tropical concoctions. Corresponding to the theme are statues of a medieval castle at the Camelot Pool, an armored knight at the Avalon Pool and the figure of the mythological horned horse at the aft Unicorn Pool. Camelot Pool has a retractable domed ceiling in the event of inclement weather.

For pre-dinner cocktails, the Odyssey and Atlantis lounges offer quiet, intimate venues with live music and the same Greek neoclassical design elements found in the atrium. Then it's on to the Club Merlin Casino for some pre-dinner medieval-themed gaming. Named for King Arthur's famous wizard, the casino is adorned with paintings of damsels, knights and wizards on the walls. The castle-like atmosphere is completed with a suit of armor standing sentinel at the bar and shields bearing crossed swords and a knight's helmet mounted on the walls.

While waiting to be seated in the Golden Fleece Supper Club alternative restaurant, guests can relax at the bar with an aperitif and watch the chefs at work preparing aged steak and fine seafood entrees while enjoying live entertainment. There also is a sculpture of the Golden Fleece behind the bar, recalling the legend of Jason and the Argonauts. In keeping with the theme, the décor features Grecian-styled gold bas-relief ships and figures of Jason in black and gold.

After dinner it's time to settle in with a snifter of brandy to watch Carnival's latest Las Vegas-style show in Follies, the main show lounge on Promenade Deck. Recalling the days of the magnificent movie houses of the 1920s, Follies evokes the feeling of an open courtyard in a Mediterranean villa. Arches, turrets and stained-glass chandeliers create an opulent, expansive space while providing excellent sightlines for the two original productions created especially for Carnival Legend. After the high-energy show, the relative quiet of Satchmo's Club is a great place to unwind with some soft dance music. Named after legendary trumpeter Louis Armstrong, the club is decorated to resemble an old New Orleans bar with exposed brick, wrought-iron details, ceiling fans, café curtains and a false skylight recreating the ambiance of the Big Easy. Adorning the walls are black-and-white photos of Armstrong at different stages of his career.

Next door, the Dream Team bar offers plush, overstuffed sofas and comfortable bar stools to provide the perfect vantage points to quaff a brew and catch up on the latest sporting events. A tribute to sports greats from the past, the Dream Team bar features large photographs of legendary athletes and big plasma-screen televisions set off with red white and blue bunting like those found at Yankee Stadium. In the mood for some sing-along camaraderie? Billie's piano bar is an intimate, art deco-styled club where the piano player is the center of attention and everybody is a crooner. A stylish tribute to blues singer Billie Holiday, the room has walls of corrugated polished steel with porthole-shaped decorations featuring backlit pieces of fine wood. Stainless-steel musical bar lines with notes welded to them separate the banquettes and a faux 1930s-era oversized microphone decorates each table.

A late-night comedy act is appearing in the Firebird Lounge, all the way forward on Riviera Deck. Taking its theme from the old Russian folktale of a talented seamstress from a small village who is turned into a bird by an evil sorcerer, the Firebird is decorated with replica hand-painted Russian lacquered boxes, accented by lamps with frosted glass globes painted on the inside to create a soft glow.

After midnight, it's time to cap the evening with a turn on the floor of the Medusa's Lair dance club located on Riviera Deck. Legend has it that Medusa's face was so horrifying, it turned men to stone. In the dance club, giant three-and-a-half foot-high Medusa heads cover the walls, their four-inch-diameter strands of snake-like hair ending in a snake's head with lighted eyes. Table bases are snakes, too, with Medusa's snake-like hair curling up the wall and extending onto the ceiling. A wall of closed-circuit televisions flash images from the dance floor mixed with videos and special effects, while the sound system plays the latest dance music and a sophisticated light system makes the Medusa heads appear to move and change expression.

Carnival Legend will enter service Aug. 24 with a 12-day Northern European voyage round-trip from Harwich followed by a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Harwich Sept. 5 and arriving New York Sept. 20. From New York, the ship will operate two- and three-day cruises-to-nowhere and 11-day Canada/New England sailings then sail on six-day Bermuda cruises from Baltimore and Philadelphia in October. Carnival Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to operate a two-day cruise-to-nowhere then launch year-round eight-day Caribbean sailings from that port Nov. 10. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.

MIAMI, Aug. 14 - Following the traditional maritime hand-over ceremony at the Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland, Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation, today took delivery of the new 88,500-ton Carnival Legend. It is the 17th "Fun Ship" in the Carnival Cruise Lines fleet.

The new 2,124-passenger vessel will depart tomorrow, Aug. 15, for Harwich, England, where it will be "officially" named in an Aug. 21 ceremony presided over by the ship's godmother, Oscar-winning British actress Dame Judi Dench.

Immediately after the naming ceremony, Carnival Legend will depart with a full contingent of guests, including hundreds of travel agents, dignitaries and journalists, on its inaugural three-day voyage to Amsterdam -- the line's first-ever sailing from Europe.

The ship will then operate a 12-day Northern Europe voyage round-trip from Harwich Aug. 24 -- Sept. 5, then sail on a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Harwich Sept. 5 and arriving in New York Sept. 20.

From New York, Carnival Legend will operate two- and three-day cruises-to- nowhere and 11-day Canada/New England cruises through October, followed by six-day Bermuda sailings from Philadelphia and Baltimore. Carnival Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., for a two-day cruise-to-nowhere Nov. 8 and a winter schedule of eight-day "exotic" Caribbean cruises beginning Nov. 10.

"Carnival Legend is truly a magnificent vessel and for its inaugural season we've assembled attractive and interesting itineraries from five different homeports to provide consumers with ample opportunities to experience this exciting addition to the 'Fun Ship' fleet," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

The third in Carnival's "Spirit-class," Carnival Legend features 12 passenger decks housing 16 lounges, bars and nightspots, four swimming pools, a corkscrew water slide, an Internet cafe, a 14,500-square-foot health spa and salon, indoor and outdoor promenades, a nine-deck-high atrium, an on-board golf program, a duty-free shopping mall, wedding chapel, a video arcade, and an 1,800-square-foot children's play area, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program.

Three restaurants, including an expansive poolside eatery featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives and a 24-hour pizzeria, a two-level 1,250-seat full-service dining room with extensive menus and wine lists, and an intimate "steakhouse-style" supper club offering U.S.D.A. prime aged beef, along with crab claws from Miami Beach's world famous Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant, are available, as well.

Additionally, 80 percent of the Carnival Legend's staterooms offer an ocean view with 80 percent of those featuring private balconies.

Carnival Cruise Lines currently has five new ships on order or under construction, including a fourth "Spirit-class" ship, Carnival Miracle, and four 110,000-ton "Conquest-class" ships -- Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Valor and an as-yet-unnamed vessel. Collectively, these five ships have an estimated value of $2.3 billion.

MIAMI, Aug. 12 - You know the campaign. You've seen the TV commercials and hummed along with the Iggy Pop song, "Lust for Life," as it pounds out over fast-paced visuals of cruise vacationers glacier trekking, swimming with stingrays, rollerblading at sea and scaling rock climbing walls 200 feet above the water. And then you think: "Cruise ships?" "Royal Caribbean?" "What's going on out there?"

What's going on is that Royal Caribbean's 2002 Effie award-winning marketing campaign is redefining the perception of cruising by spotlighting the visionary and innovative new ships and shore programs that are the core of a Royal Caribbean vacation experience. In fact, the initiative has been so effective that Royal Caribbean is changing its official tag line to the key message communicated in the campaign: "Get out there(SM)."

"Many companies have built a brand, but very few have had to overcome such deep-seated misperceptions of the industry they exist in," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, marketing and sales for Royal Caribbean International. "Our objective with the campaign and the new tag line is to educate both first-time and loyal cruise vacationers that on our ships it's a whole new active and exhilarating world."

The "Get out there(SM)" campaign was initially launched in January 2000 to reposition the brand, dispel consumer misperceptions of cruising and generate increased demand for Royal Caribbean; all challenges in the face of unprecedented capacity growth in the cruise industry. The results? By targeting a consumer mindset rather than demographics alone, the campaign has successfully raised brand preference by 68 percent and increased Web traffic by 400 percent.

Created by Royal Caribbean and Arnold Worldwide, the "Get out there(SM)" integrated marketing campaign encompasses national and spot TV, print, radio, partnerships and strategic alliances, sponsorships, direct-mail, collateral, website and Internet marketing and is supported with public relations. The cruise line has become well-known for its three action-packed TV commercials shot around the world with guests biking in Copenhagen, swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman, dog-sledding and glacier trekking in Alaska, climbing a rock wall 200 feet above the sea, and racing around the ships in wheelchairs.

In addition, many guests "Get out there(SM)" before they even embark thanks to the company's dynamic award-winning web site, www.royalcaribbean.com, where consumers can "test drive" a cruise before they book one. Royal Caribbean's onboard and on-shore experiences come alive with virtual 360-degree tours of the ships and video clips highlighting ice shows on the Voyager-class ships, the action on the sports deck, the excitement of art auctions, the lure of the spa and temptation of the specialty restaurants.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 15 ships in service, and four more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com call 800-327-6700.

Princess Adds Two Former Renaissance Ships to Fleet
Vessels Debut as Tahitian Princess and Pacific Princess
Expand Line's Exotic Destinations With Year-Round French Polynesia Sailings; Small Ships Will Offer Princess' Personal Choice Cruising Experience and Trademark Balconies

SANTA CLARITA, Ca Aug. 9, 2002 - P&O Princess Cruises announced today that two former Renaissance vessels, R3 and R4, will soon be joining the Princess fleet, introducing Princess' trademark "big ship choice" in a smaller, more intimate cruise environment. The ships will offer sailings in Tahiti and the wider Pacific Ocean region.

The 688-passenger R3 will premiere as Pacific Princess, while sister ship R4 will debut as Tahitian Princess. Both vessels, which originally entered service in 1999, are well suited to offer many of the Personal Choice Cruising options that have become Princess trademarks, according to the company. This includes a wide variety of dining experiences including a 24-hour Lido and alternative dining programs with both an Italian restaurant and an American steakhouse; and 92 percent outside staterooms, with over two-thirds of these including a private balcony.

Beginning with a holiday cruise on December 24, 2002, Tahitian Princess will sail year-round in Tahiti and the South Pacific, debuting the only 10-day sailings in the region. Three unique itineraries, with a total of 50 departures roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti, each include calls at the tropical paradises of Bora Bora, Moorea and Raiatea. Passengers can choose one of the 34 French Polynesia/Cook Islands sailings that explore ports like mystic Huahine and Raratonga and feature overnight stays in both Papeete and Bora Bora; enjoy one of eight French Polynesia/Samoa cruises to discover the dramatic beauty of Pago Pago and Apia; or travel on one of eight French Polynesia/Marquesas voyages to unwrap the secrets of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa. A full range of pre- and post-Tahiti packages will also be available.

The Pacific Princess will operate on a split deployment, sailing half the year throughout French Polynesia and the wider Pacific region for Princess Cruises, and the other half for the P&O Cruises Australia brand, serving the growing Australian market in the South Pacific region. The specific Princess itineraries for this ship are in the process of being finalized, and are expected to be available soon.

"This announcement is exciting to us on several levels," said Phil Kleweno, president of Princess Cruises. "First, these smaller Princess ships will complement our fleet of larger vessels, furthering our commitment to provide passengers with exotic itineraries that allow them to discover the world in their own way. Our choice of three different 10-day French Polynesian itineraries are the most extensive in this part of the world, and should be a must for any traveler looking to fully experience the beauty and unique character of this fascinating region.

"Additionally, the design of these small, modern ships will enable us to provide a 'boutique version' of our Personal Choice Cruising program, with over two thirds of the ship's cabins having balconies and with a variety of dining and entertainment options. At the same time, the Princess onboard staff will be providing the high levels of service that we've come to be known for wherever we cruise. And finally, no other cruise to the French Polynesia region is as affordable as those offered aboard these new ships. The combination of itinerary, onboard service and affordability will clearly differentiate Princess from the competition."

Special promotional pricing for 10-day Tahitian Princess sailings begins at $799 per person, double occupancy.

Princess Cruises, one of the best-known names in North American cruising, currently operates a fleet of ten ships deployed on many different itineraries calling at more than 180 ports worldwide. Cruises range from 7 to 32 days in length to destinations including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, the Panama Canal, Mexico, the South Pacific, South America, Hawaii, Asia, Canada, New England and Bermuda.

Further information about Princess' French Polynesia and South Pacific sailings is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS.

MIAMI (08/09/02) - Chefs from three popular Chicago area eateries, Salpicón! Don Juan on Halsted, and Bittersweet Pastryshop & Café, will display their wide-ranging culinary talents as part of the "Second Annual Chicago Culinary Cruise" taking place aboard the Carnival Pride Feb. 1- 8, 2003. The seven-day voyage, which is being organized by Carnival and Chicago-based Travel Duet, Inc., will feature exclusive cooking classes and demonstrations with top "Windy City" chefs preparing their signature upscale Mexican cuisine. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn culinary tips and preparation techniques during informative question-and-answer sessions. The cruise will operate round-trip from Port Canaveral, Fla., and feature port calls to Key West, Fla.; Belize City, Belize; and Playa del Carmen and Progreso/Merida, Mexico,

"We're pleased to again partner with top 'Windy City' chefs to provide guests an opportunity to sample delicious 'south of the border' cuisine and learn the 'tricks of the trade' from these talented culinary artists," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president.

Participating chefs and restaurants in the "Second Annual Chicago Culinary Cruise" include:

Salpicón! - Located in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood, Salpicón! captures the essence of upscale Mexican cuisine, focusing on the distinct flavors of the country's central region. Owned by the husband and wife team of Priscila and Vincent Satkoff, Salpicón! features one of the "Windy City's" best wine lists and has earned the "Award Of Excellence" from Wine Spectator magazine -- a rare feat for a Mexican restaurant.

Don Juan on Halsted - This popular eatery, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, showcases the talents of Chef Patrick Concannon, whose innovative "Nuevo Mexican" cuisine deftly blends age-old recipes with New World flair to create a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. Drawing from both his classic French training and Mexican heritage, Chef Concannon is widely credited with bringing a fresh, new approach to Mexican cuisine.

Bittersweet Pastryshop & Café - This popular pastry shop located in Chicago's trendy Lakeview neighborhood has satisfied Chicagoans' "sweet tooth" for more than a decade. Combining high quality ingredients with a light and delicate touch, Pastry Chef Judy Contino's decadent creations reflect Mexico's great influence of chocolate, caramel and vanilla and offer the perfect finale to any meal.

Vincent Satkoff, Salpicón!'s wine director, will also host tastings of Benziger wines and Jose Cuervo tequila products to help guests match the right spirit to their favorite dishes.

In addition to the award-winning cuisine prepared by these talented chefs, participants in the "Second Annual Chicago Culinary Cruise" will enjoy Carnival Pride's wide variety of formal and casual dining venues. These include the Normandie, a two-level full-service restaurant with expansive menus and wine list; Mermaids' Grille, an expansive poolside eatery with full breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets; a 24-hour pizzeria; Asian and American specialty areas; a New York-style deli; David's, an upscale "steakhouse- style" supper club serving U.S.D.A. prime beef, along with crab claws from Miami Beach's world-famous Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant; and the Piazza Cafe, a patisserie serving specialty coffees and sweets. Complimentary 24-hour room service is available, as well. Prices for the "Second Annual Chicago Culinary Cruise" begin at $799 per person based upon double occupancy and include all meals, accommodations, entertainment and cooking classes and demonstrations. Special rates for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom and attractive round-trip air supplements are also available. Additional information and reservations for the "Second Annual Chicago Culinary Cruise" can be obtained by calling Debra Provus at Travel Duet Inc. at 847-948-5300.

MIAMI (08/07/02) - Carnival Cruise Lines and world-renowned motivational speaker Zig Ziglar have teamed up to create "Success At Sea," a week-long motivational seminar aboard the 2,758-passenger "Fun Ship" Carnival Victory in October 2002. During the seven-day voyage, which will operate round-trip from Miami Oct. 27 - Nov. 3, 2002, and feature port calls at Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios, Ziglar will host a series of innovative, thought-provoking seminars designed to help participants understand the secrets to success, both in their personal and professional lives. Utilizing a no-nonsense approach and homespun humor, Ziglar's seminars will cover such topics as goal setting, personal and professional fulfillment, self-motivation, communication skills, leadership, time management and even marriage and children.

"Carnival is delighted to partner with Zig Ziglar to create the 'Success at Sea' seminar aboard the Carnival Victory," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "Zig Ziglar's thought-provoking seminars have helped thousands enhance their lives and this 'seminar at sea' offers participants an opportunity to learn the secrets to personal and professional success while enjoying all the fun and excitement of a 'Fun Ship' cruise," he added.

Commented Ziglar, "Although I've conducted motivational seminars all over the world, this is the first time I've held one aboard a cruise ship. And while the venue may be different, the objective of 'Success at Sea' is the same - to provide participants the essential tools to positively impact their personal, family and professional life."

Ziglar's shipboard seminars will be conducted in three six-hour sessions during the Carnival Victory's three sea days. Among the topics covered during the three sessions include:

* How to increase income & build a balanced life with a comprehensive goals program
* How participants can run their day by the clock & their life with a vision
* Why lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem in our lives
* How to experience radical growth in minute steps
* How to communicate effectively with different personality types
* How to lead others to do what you want them to do because they want to do it

"Success at Sea" participants will also have the opportunity to have their personal and family questions answered by Ziglar and his training team

ABOUT ZIG ZIGLAR Since 1970, Ziglar has traveled more than five million miles across the world delivering powerful life-improvement messages, cultivating the energy of change. A well-known authority on complete and balanced success, Ziglar has a client list that includes thousands of small and mid-sized businesses, Fortune 500 companies, U.S. government agencies, churches, schools and non-profit organizations. Ziglar has also written 17 books emphasizing personal growth, leadership, effective sales strategies, family, faith and success. Nine titles have made the best-seller lists and his books and tapes have been translated into more than 38 languages and dialects.

ABOUT CARNIVAL VICTORY One of the largest passenger vessels at sea, the 102,000-ton Carnival Victory offers a wide variety of modern, "resort-style" amenities and facilities, including 18 bars and lounges, four swimming pools - one with a 214-foot-long water slide - an Internet café, a 15,000-square-foot health and fitness center, a jogging track, an expansive casino, and indoor and outdoor children's play areas, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program. Dining options include a pair of two-level full-service restaurants with extensive menus and wine lists and a two-deck-high poolside eatery offering full breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, a New York-style deli, Asian and American specialty areas and 24-hour pizza and self-serve ice cream/frozen yogurt. A patisserie and complimentary 24-hour room service are also available.

PRICING AND RESERVATIONS Rates for the "Seminar at Sea" aboard the Carnival Victory begin at $1,295 per person based on double occupancy and include all meals, accommodations, on-board activities and entertainment and Zig Ziglar-led seminars. For additional information and reservations, contact Zig Ziglar Training Systems at 1-800-527-0306. Information is also available on-line at www.success-at-sea.com.

MIAMI, Aug. 7 - Seabourn Cruise Line has added extra value features to the January and February departures of its "luxury adventure" cruises of Panama, Belize and Costa Rica aboard the intimate, all-suite Seabourn Legend.

Two week cruises departing January 4th from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and January 18th from Caldera (San Jose), Costa Rica aboard the 208-guest ship now offer increased Early Booking Savings up to 50 percent with fares starting from $3,998 per person. Early Booking Savings percentages may be reduced or withdrawn at any time. The same itineraries, departing on February 1st from Florida or February 15th from Costa Rica, feature free economy class airfare from 28 North American gateways, in addition to Early Booking Savings up to 40 percent and fares from $4,797 per person.

The itinerary offers opportunities to climb trees, snorkel, swim with dolphins, scale pyramids and raft down rivers, all from the posh platform of an ultra luxury ship. A free 'Exclusively Seabourn' visit to Panama's luxurious Gamboa Rain Forest Resort offers nature walks; folkloric shows; a butterfly farm; serpentarium; orchid garden; a two-level swimming pool and an aerial tram in the jungle canopy. Seabourn Legend will transit one set of Panama Canal locks in daylight and one at night, providing two different experiences.

The unspoiled national parks of Costa Rica can be explored by outrigger canoe, river raft, kayak, off-road vehicle, riverboat, on nature walks and even by rappelling on ropes in the jungle canopy. Between adventures, guests enjoy fine cuisine designed by renowned chef Charlie Palmer and unwind with free Massage Moments on deck or a soothing Molton Brown Pure Pampering bath prepared by their stewardess. For information, call a travel agent or Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or click on www.seabourn.com.

MIAMI, Aug. 7 - Looking to get way out there? Royal Caribbean's 2003 line-up of Exotic Destinations takes guests as far away as Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and French Polynesia. January through March 2003, Legend of the Seas will sail 14- and 16-night South Pacific itineraries departing from Auckland, New Zealand; Sydney, Australia; and Honolulu, Oahu.

The Exotic Destinations voyages' ports of call range from Maui to Moorea, Tauranga to Tasmania, giving guests endless opportunities to "Get out there(SM)" and explore. Shore excursions offer once-in-a-lifetime adventures such as battling marlin off the coast of Maui, looking down the mouth of an active Hawaiian volcano, exploring the boiling mud pools of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve in New Zealand, or diving one of the world's natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef.

While a South Pacific cruise may sound like a super-sized vacation expense, Royal Caribbean offers its Exotic Destinations cruises starting at $1,799 per person, double occupancy, or just $5,396 for a family of four. Prices include accommodations, around-the-clock dining options, nightly entertainment, and shipboard activities.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 15 ships in service and four more under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's web site at www.royalcaribbean.com or call 800-327-6700 for reservations.

MIAMI, 08/06/02 - Today's health-conscious vacationers can choose from a number of options to stay in shape and pamper themselves while cruising on the new 88,500-ton Carnival Legend. The 14,500-square-foot Fountain of Youth Spa aboard Carnival Legend will feature the latest exercise equipment and spinning and aerobics classes, along with a number of luxurious "European-style" treatments.

"Keeping fit as well as indulging in soothing mind and body treatments has become an important part of today's lifestyle and the spa on Carnival Legend provides these options to our guests in a most sophisticated environment," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. Dickinson added that approximately 1.2 million guests - roughly half of Carnival's total passenger base - are expected to use the line's fleetwide spa services this year.

The Carnival Legend's two-level health center will span the forward portion of Lido Deck 9 and Sun Deck 10, providing spectacular ocean views from the large picture windows surrounding the facility. The gym will include the latest exercise equipment, including stationary bicycles, treadmills, and rowing, stair-climbing and Keiser pneumatic progressive resistance machines, as well as free weights and dumbbells. Adjacent to the workout areas will be a mirrored aerobics room, which will serve as the venue for Carnival's wide range of exercise classes, including low- and high-impact aerobics, yoga, spinning, and stretching and relaxation sessions.

The spacious facility can accommodate large groups or be reconfigured to host more than one class simultaneously. The Carnival Legend spa will also offer a variety of exotic "European-style" treatments, including "aroma stone therapy," which is based on an ancient ritual that combines heated and scented oils with a full body massage using warm basalt stones, creating a relaxing and rejuvenating sensation. These treatments will complement a sophisticated menu of full body and scalp massages, seaweed wraps, mudpacks, and various slimming and toning therapies. Treatments will be conducted by the Carnival Legend's highly trained staff, who also provide nutrition and training tips, wellness counseling sessions, and fitness evaluations such as height/weight and body fat composition analyses.

Also housed within the spa are 10 private treatment/massage rooms, complete locker facilities, sauna and steam rooms, and a full-service beauty salon. The ship will also feature four swimming pools and four whirlpools, one available in the spa itself and three others on Lido Deck 9, as well as a padded jogging track encircling Sports Deck 11.

As part of Carnival's Total Choice Dining(SM), cruising's most comprehensive dining program offering the widest variety of formal and casual options at sea, menus in the Carnival Legend's formal dining room, Truffles, will feature a selection of Spa Carnival dishes lower in fat, calories, and sodium and cholesterol. Meats are broiled or roasted, salads prepared with low-fat or fat-free dressings and desserts with sugar substitutes. Vegetarian meals will also be available on all dining room menus, while the expansive two-level Unicorn Café poolside restaurant will include a diversity of healthy offerings, including an extensive salad bar and a 24-hour frozen yogurt station.

Carnival Legend is scheduled to enter service Aug. 24 with a 12-day Northern European voyage round-trip from Harwich (near London), followed by a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Harwich Sept. 5 and arriving New York Sept. 20. From New York, the ship will operate two- and three-day cruises-to-nowhere and 10- and 11-day Canada/New England sailings then sail on six-day Bermuda cruises from Baltimore and Philadelphia in October. Carnival Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to operate a two-day cruise-to-nowhere then launch year-round eight-day Caribbean sailings from that port Nov. 10. Following these voyages, the ship will launch a one-of-a-kind eight-day Caribbean cruise program from New York May 13, 2003. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL. Information and reservations also can be obtained via Carnival's Web site at www.carnival.com.

MIAMI, Aug. 6, 2002 - Travel agents will now be able to research and book Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises cruise vacations at their convenience day or night thanks to new "24/7" Global Distribution System (GDS) and proprietary online booking systems. A cost-effective alternative to making travel arrangements over the phone, the new booking program is consistently available regardless of time zones. Systems that once needed to be taken offline for maintenance and support now offer no interruptions in service.

"Providing innovative and impactful solutions to the business needs of travel agents is as important to Royal Caribbean and Celebrity as the exhilarating and revolutionary developments on our ships and shore programs," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Royal Caribbean International. "We are always looking for new ways to help travel agents streamline their business."

Every automated channel is now open and updated 24/7 including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises proprietary systems CruiseMatch 2000; CruiseMatch 2000 Groups and View Data (UK); as well as GDS services Amadeus Cruise, Sabre CruiseDirector, Sabre Cruises, Apollo/Galileo LeisureShopper, Galileo e-Cruise, CruiseManager and WorldSpan Go! Cruise. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Celebrity Tours.

Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have a combined total of 24 ships in service and four under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com and www.celebritycruises.com.

MIAMI, Aug. 5 - Wizards and broomsticks! Royal Celebrity Tours is offering special tours of England in 2003 tracing the steps of kids' favorite wizard-in-training, Harry Potter® -- from the best-selling novel and hit movie "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone."

The "Magical Tour of England" cruisetour is an ideal post-cruise package for families, extending a 12-night Northern Europe cruise onboard Grandeur of the Seas with four additional nights on land. Families are guaranteed a magical experience as they visit the locations used to bring the popular book to life on the big screen. They will stroll through the London Zoo reptile house where Harry came face-to-face with a talking snake; explore Alnwick Castle in Northumberland where the broomstick lesson scenes were shot; and even step aboard a steam train for a ride through North York Moors National Park, stopping at historic Goathland Station where Harry is seen in the movie arriving for school. Local tour directors escort all cruisetours, setting aside plenty of free time for sightseeing and shopping.

Grandeur will sail 12-night voyages to the Baltic and Northern Europe round-trip from Harwich, England, from May 19, 2003, through August 23, 2003, with cruisetour prices starting at $3,669 per person, double occupancy.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Celebrity Tours. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have a combined total of 24 ships in service and four under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada and Europe. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com or www.celebritycruises.com.

Harry Potter®, Sorcerer's Stone®, and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone are trademarks or registered trademarks of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P or the partnership of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. American Television and Communications Corporation and Warner Communications Inc. in the United States and certain other countries. Neither the tour nor the associated cruise services described herein are sponsored by, endorsed by or affiliated with the trademark owners or Warner Bros.

SEABOURN OPENS ONLINE 'SIGNATURE BOUTIQUE'
Luxury Casual Wear Sports 'The Yachts of Seabourn' Logo

MIAMI, August 5, 2002 - Ultra luxury Seabourn Cruise Line has opened an online "Signature Boutique," offering casually elegant designer travel clothing for men and women, embroidered with the company's distinctive logo: The Yachts of Seabourn. The clothing line is available only by ordering from the secure site, which can be accessed at the address www.seabournboutique.com or through a link on the company's website at www.seabourn.com.

"Our Signature Boutique collection represents the sort of casually elegant clothing that our guests prefer for daytime wear when they are vacationing," said Rick Meadows, CTC, Seabourn's senior vice president of sales and marketing. "The designs are tasteful and timeless, made in fine fabrics that travel well," he continued.

Women's selections include a cloud-like Micro-Denier Fleece Quarter Zip Mock to ward off chill. A long-sleeve, combed cotton Scoop Neck Jersey has side vents for wear either tucked in or out. The super-fine microfibre Anorak Field Jacket has a storm flap zipper front, generous pockets and a detachable contrast-lined hood.

The men's V-neck Links Microfibre Windshirt repels rain and chill. An Interlock Knit Mock long-sleeved tee provides layering or a light coverup. A Vertical Stripe Interlock Knit Polo features a two-button placket, side vents and micro-striped collar and cuffs. The Microfibre Executive Jacket is fully poplin lined, with a zipper front, snap-closure pockets and rib-knit cuffs and waistband.

Complementing his-and-hers styles include a silky-smooth Lightweight Indigo Denim Shirt, in tropical-weight cotton with a button-down collar. The combed cotton Interlock Knit Mock has a rib-knit collar and cuffs. The men's Textured Silk/Cotton Polo Shirt has a classic three-button placket. A women's Scoop Neck Crew version in the same waffle-knit pattern has a slightly gathered waist.

Both men and women will like the Washed Twill Cap with a relaxed crown shape, a bill to keep sun off and an adjustable self-fabric strap closure.

Prices range from $17.00 to $69.00. Shipping is extra, and can be requested either by regular UPS ground service or two-day service. All items are shipped with satisfaction fully guaranteed.

For more information on The Yachts of Seabourn, contact a travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391, or visit www.seabourn.com.

Seattle, August 2, 2002 - Holland America Line has revised its fall schedule to include a three-day sailing on the 1,380-passenger flagship, ms Amsterdam, on the popular itinerary of short Pacific Northwest cruises. The Amsterdam will sail Sept. 28 on a roundtrip cruise from Seattle that includes ports of call in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C, and scenic cruising in Puget Sound.

Three additional fall sampler cruises are scheduled roundtrip from Vancouver, with three-day cruises departing aboard the 1,440-passenger Zaandam on Oct. 5 and aboard the 1,266-passenger Veendam on Sept. 29. The Zaandam sails on a four-day cruise departing Oct. 8.

"Our Pacific Coast and Northwest cruises are a great opportunity for travelers to experience a premium cruise in a short period of time," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice-president of marketing and sales. "These cruises are close to home and well-priced to take advantage of a quick, great premium vacation this fall."

The three-day cruise on the Amsterdam allows guests to sample the sights and delights of three of the Pacific Northwest's most intriguing cities: Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria. In Seattle, the "Emerald City," guests may visit the world-renowned Pike Place Public Market and historic Pioneer Square, shop 'til they drop in a downtown located only minutes from the cruise terminal and view the skyline and Puget Sound from the top of the 605-foot [184-meter] Space Needle. Vancouver, British Columbia, offers expansive Stanley Park, historic Gastown and the second-largest Chinatown on the West Coast, wrapped up in a cosmopolitan and friendly cityscape. Victoria, B.C., lives up to its British heritage with its double-decker buses, stores filled with English china, tweeds and woolens, and proper afternoon tea in numerous spots, including the Edwardian-era Empress Hotel. Also on the must-see list: the botanical attractions of world-famous Butchart Gardens. Cruise vacations may be extended with pre- and post-cruise tour packages in Seattle or Vancouver.

(Miami, FL) Quasar Nautica Galapagos Expeditions announces the launch of its online, unbranded brochure www.yachtsgalapagos.com. With no pricing or contact information, this innovative website provides tour operators and travel agencies with an outstanding sales, marketing and educational tool. It features details about the Galapagos Islands as a travel destination, as well as information on the Quasar Nautica fleet of yachts - including sample itineraries, photos, deck plans, and even virtual tours.

Dolores Diez, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Quasar Nautica commented We recognize that many tour operators and travel agents, as resellers of travel, want to provide detailed destination and product information directly to their prospective clients without obvious reference to their preferred supplier. The unbranded website www.yachtsgalapagos.com allows this to be done easily and effectively. Most importantly, we created this website with no pricing or contact information so that resellers can maintain their privileged position. With the Galapagos Islands being such a unique and amazing destination, this online brochure will also serve as a ready reference source in dealing with travelers questions. Ms. Diez said that she wanted to encourage all travel agents and tour operators to review and take advantage of www.yachtsgalapagos.com.

The modern Quasar Nautica fleet of seven yachts ranges from 12 to 48-passengers and sail year round for both FIT and charter. It includes the exceptionally spacious 48-passenger expedition vessel Eclipse, the 48-passenger barquentine sail yacht Lili Marleen, the luxurious 16-passenger yachts Alta, Parranda and Lammer Law, as well as the 12-passenger Diamante and Mistral. The Lammer Law and Mistral are specially outfitted for diving.

Seattle, August 1, 2002 - Holland America Line announces two new itineraries for the ms Prinsendam, the Elegant Explorer, this fall with explorer cruises from Cape Town to Mombasa and Mombasa to Singapore. At 18 and 20 days respectively, both cruises bring the highlights of some of the world's most offbeat and intriguing destinations within easy reach of shipboard guests

"The Prinsendam is an extraordinary ship sailing to fascinating destinations," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "These two cruise options showcase a diverse palette of culture and natural history. With fewer than 800 pampered guests she is a special ship bound for the world's special places in true Holland America style."

The Prinsendam's East Africa & Indian Ocean cruises begins in Cape Town, South Africa, on September 25, where the ship remains through September 27, permitting guests to enjoy the region with tours to Victoria Falls and an African Safari. After scenic cruising in the Cape of Good Hope and the Indian Ocean, the Prinsendam arrives in Durban, South Africa, on Sept. 29. She also visits Richards Bay, South Africa, before sailing for La Possession, Reunion; Port Louis, Mauritius; Nosy-Be, Madagascar; Moroni, Comoros; Zanzibar, Tanzania; and Mombasa, Kenya.

On October 13, the Prinsendam departs Mombasa for a 20-day East Africa & Southeast Asia Journey visiting Victoria, La Digue and Pralin, Seychelles, before crossing the Indian Ocean to explore the Maldives and call at Thilawa, Myanmar. The Prinsendam will spend three days in Thilawa with several tour options for guests to explore Myanmar, formerly called Burma. Highlights include exploration of Bagan, with 5,000 temples scattered across an ancient desert and Thilawa's venerable Schwedagon Pagoda, a diamond-studded golden shrine to Buddhism and the country's rich culture. Departing on October 26, the Prinsendam then sails to Port Blair, Andaman Islands; Phuket, Thailand; and Langkawi, Penang, and Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia, before concluding the journey in Singapore. Fares for the 18-day segment begin at just US$5,435 per person, double occupancy. The 20-day cruise begins at US$6,042 per person. For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Voyages to Points East and Down Under On Nov. 2, the Prinsendam departs Singapore for an 18-day cruise to Sydney, Australia, with ports of call in Surabaya and Lombok, Indonesia, and Broome, Darwin, Cairns and Brisbane, Australia. After reaching Australia on Nov. 20, the Prinsendam will embark on an exciting series of 16-day luxury cruises featuring enticing ports of call in Australia and New Zealand. The voyages from Sydney to Auckland (and reverse) visit Melbourne, Australia; Launceston, Tasmania; Port Chalmers, Christchurch and Picton, as well Nelson, Wellington, Napier and Tauranga, New Zealand. The 18-day return trip to Singapore leaves Sydney on Feb. 24, 2003. The Prinsendam will take guests to Broome, Darwin, Cairns and Brisbane, Australia, as well as Bali and Semarang, Indonesia, on this return trip to Asia. Fares for these cruises start at $3,499 per person, double occupancy.

Leaving Singapore on March 14, the Prinsendam sets sail for two months of cruising in Southeast Asia. The first voyage is to Hong Kong, with ports of call in Muara, Brunei; Bangkok, Thailand; and Phu My and Da Nang, Vietnam. On March 28, the Prinsendam embarks for Osaka, Japan, with visits to Shanghai, Beijing and Dalian, all in China; Cheju City on Cheju Island in South Korea; and Nagasaki, Japan. The return trip to Hong Kong leaves Osaka on April 11 and the Prinsendam returns to Singapore after a 14-day cruise from Hong Kong leaving on April 25. Fares start at $2,829 per person, double occupancy.

Guests will travel in five-star luxury on the ms Prinsendam to these distinctive destinations and the extended stays in many ports provide greater opportunities for guests to experience the culture, history, architecture and scenic beauty of these fascinating areas.

MIAMI (08/02/02) - The new 88,500-ton Carnival Legend's intimate wedding chapel, combined with a variety of affordable and convenient wedding packages, will provide memorable and unique opportunities for couples to "tie the knot" in a striking and romantic setting. Carnival Legend's wedding packages feature a ceremony aboard ship during embarkation day or at various on-island locations, and complement the line's existing fleetwide wedding program, which is expected to attract some 2,200 couples this year.

The Chapel on Carnival Legend features stained-glass windows and Old Testament scenes, along with a central aisle leading to the stage and a private dressing area for the bride. The Gothic-style facility will serve as the venue for weddings taking place during embarkation day while the ship is docked at Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Carnival's "Just for the Bride & Groom" package starts at $695 and includes an official civil ceremony, a champagne toast with keepsake flutes, flowers for both bride and groom, a wedding cake with cake topper, pre-recorded wedding music, a decorated bridal aisle and photographic services.

The "Welcome Aboard" package begins at $1,295 and offers all the amenities of "Just for the Bride & Groom," as well as a reception with one-hour open bar and hot-and-cold hors d'oeuvres, a traditional two-tiered wedding cake and coffee service. Couples may also select the "Deluxe Romance" package, which starts at $1,395 and includes a one-and-a-half hour reception and an ice carving, as well as all the features of the other programs. A wide variety of options such as videography services, live music and tuxedo rental are also available at additional cost. Shoreside ceremonies featuring a romantic tropical setting will also be available in Barbados and St. Maarten when the Carnival Legend enters Caribbean service in Nov. 2002.

Carnival Legend is scheduled to debut Aug. 24 with a 12-day Northern European voyage round-trip from Harwich (near London) followed by a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Harwich Sept. 5 and arriving New York Sept. 20. From New York, the ship will operate two- and three-day cruises-to-nowhere and 11-day Canada/New England voyages, then sail on six-day Bermuda cruises from Baltimore and Philadelphia in October. Carnival Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to operate a two-day cruise-to-nowhere and a series of eight-day Caribbean sailings from that port beginning Nov. 10. Following these voyages, the ship will launch a one-of-a-kind eight-day Caribbean cruise program from New York May 13, 2003. For additional information on Carnival's wedding packages, call the line's Bon Voyage Department at 1-800-933-4968. Information and reservations on Carnival's "Fun Ship" cruises can be obtained by contacting any travel agent, calling 1-800-CARNIVAL or visiting the line's Web site at www.carnival.com.

SEATTLE, Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line today announced that its "Elegant Explorer," the 794-passenger ms Prinsendam, will sail on the 105-day Grand World Voyage in 2004.

"We are very pleased to announce the deployment of the Prinsendam to operate our Grand World Voyage for 2004," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "This cruise will be a full-fledged around-the-world voyage from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale, preceded by a Panama Canal cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles.

"The 2004 World Voyage itinerary promises to be unique and of high appeal, and will be based on the results of a recently survey of our most experienced Grand World Voyage Mariners, who advised their preferences and other input. We will be unveiling the itinerary in early fall," said Giersdorf. He added that the first choice for stateroom selection on the 2004 world cruise, along with special pricing incentives, will be offered to guests sailing aboard the ms Amsterdam's 2003 Grand World Voyage.

Giersdorf noted that the Prinsendam is ideally suited for this special journey. In her years sailing first as the Royal Viking Sun and then as the Seabourn Sun, the Prinsendam made several world circumnavigations, attracting a loyal following.

"She is one of the most spacious ships afloat, custom-built for global itineraries catering to discriminating, experienced cruisers. When Holland America took delivery of the Prinsendam this spring we created some spectacular new public rooms, including an elegant alternative restaurant, the Odyssey; a new casual Lido Restaurant; a gleaming new Ocean Bar; an Art Gallery; a new Internet Center; a dazzling show lounge; and 14 new "lanai" staterooms. In addition, a new Neptune Lounge offers concierge services for our suite guests," said Giersdorf.

"All of the Prinsendam's 398 staterooms are spacious and feature expanded storage space. All but 25 of her staterooms have ocean views and 151 of these also have spacious, private verandahs. In addition to the recent renovations to her suites, all of the remaining cabins are being further upgraded with new soft-goods, carpeting and sinks. This project will be completed in fall 2002, so the Prinsendam will absolutely sparkle on her Grand World Voyage," Giersdorf said.

Holland America's Grand World Voyage the Trip of a Lifetime
Since its first world cruise in 1958, Holland America has earned a stellar reputation for providing the utmost in personal service and amenities to its discriminating world cruise guests. Crews for these very special voyages are individually selected from the entire fleet to create a staff of unmatched excellence and experience. An array of special world cruise events and services add extra luster to Holland America's premium cruise experience.

In addition to the line's exemplary service and traditional elegant touches, Holland America Line's Grand Voyage Service takes the cruise experience to the highest levels of luxury. Holland America's attention to detail creates the trip of a lifetime, with culinary and entertainment enhancements to tempt the tastes of every traveler, as well on-board cultural and lifestyle lectures, theme parties, commemorative gifts, extended port stays and a multitude of exciting optional shore excursions that add extra depth to the Grand World Voyage experience.

NEW YORK, Aug. 2 - Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) completely redesigned website, www.cruising.org, is the ultimate cruise vacation resource, a one-stop source for unbiased, comprehensive cruise information geared toward vacationers, travel agents and the media.

Site visitors will find a wealth of useful information about the cruise industry, the 23 CLIA-member cruise lines and the nearly 17,000 travel agent affiliates, as well as links to key industry resources, including the International Council of Cruise Lines (www.iccl.org) -- all in a new easy-to-access and easy-to-navigate format.

"We believe we have succeeded in providing the most comprehensive site for cruise information," says Bob Sharak, CLIA's director and vice president of marketing and business development.

"One of the site's most important roles is to direct consumers to the ultimate resource -- a local CLIA-affiliated travel agency," says Sharak. "Potential cruisers should use the site to collect data, narrow their choices and then find a local CLIA travel agency and certified cruise counsellor, the expert who can answer their questions and help select the cruise that's best for them."

* Cruise Expert Locator: CLIA-affiliate agencies, particularly those with Accredited Cruise and Master Cruise Counsellors, can be easily located through a search by agency name, zip code, area code or cruise expert certification level.

* Cruise line information: Detailed information about all 23 member cruise lines and 140 ship profiles and links to the member line sites.

* Featured destinations: Descriptions of worldwide destinations and a listing of CLIA cruise lines that offer sailings in those locations.

* Cruise News: The latest news from the cruise industry, including access to current and archived press releases and a "Cruise Travel Update."

* Cruise Finder: Search for a cruise by destination, cruise line or length of cruise.

The site's Travel Agent Center provides CLIA-affiliated agencies with information on benefits, marketing tips, sales tools, trade news and sales training programs.

Plus, journalists who register at the "Pressroom/Research" area will have access to an assortment of source materials, press releases and press kits.

Cruise Lines International Association, the North American-based marketing and training organization representing 23 cruise lines and nearly 17,000 affiliated travel agencies, is a member of the Cruise Line Coalition.

MIAMI, July 31, 2002 - As a result of its voluntary reporting of irregularities, Norwegian Cruise Line Limited (NCL) has reached an agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida and the U.S. Department of Justice to plead guilty to a single count of violation of Title 33, U.S.C., Section 1908, for the knowing failure to maintain an accurate Oil Record Book aboard the S.S. Norway prior to May 2000. Under the plea agreement, NCL has agreed to pay a fine of $1 million, be placed on probation, and maintain a comprehensive environmental compliance plan.

NCL discovered reporting irregularities and improper use of on board oil/water separators during a fleet-wide independent environmental audit as part of a new management review shortly after Star Cruises gained control of the company in February 2000. NCL immediately reported these problems to the U.S. government in May 2000, and took steps to stop further violations and to correct the underlying problems. The plea agreement represents the culmination of two years of cooperation between NCL and the U. S government agencies involved.

"Our company is committed to protecting the environment," said Colin Veitch, President and Chief Executive Officer of NCL since its purchase by Star Cruises Plc in February 2000. "We deeply regret the past actions we found upon our purchase of NCL. Along with the government, we deplore that the standards of this reputable company were allowed to drop in this way in the years leading up to its acquisition, but I am personally proud of the way our company has stepped up to its responsibilities for environmental protection during the past two and a half years."

The plea agreement cites the knowing failure to log and report as required the incorrect operation of the oil/water separators on the S.S. Norway and the overboard discharge of oily bilge water over the legal limit of 15 parts per million between 1997 and May 2000, when NCL reported its internal findings.

"We took responsibility and fixed the problem, at a very substantial cost," Veitch said. "Instead of stalling or stonewalling, we cooperated fully with the government throughout this period."

Remedial actions taken by NCL include terminating or accepting resignations of executive and management employees in the shore side operational group responsible for the running of its ships, putting in place across its fleet an entirely new environmental compliance program including upgraded equipment, comprehensive waste management and reporting systems, annual audits, Environmental Officers on all ships, and a new department shore side headed by a senior executive responsible for environmental and regulatory compliance.

"This agreement is a concrete example of NCL's commitment to full compliance with all environmental laws and regulations, and to operational practices of the highest standard," Veitch said. "We are pleased to have the investigation and correction of this regrettable violation behind us. We are a stronger and healthier company now."

The plea agreement reflects the government's recognition of the extent of NCL's cooperation, including substantial assistance in the investigation, waiver of privilege, institution of prompt remedial action, and installation of a compliance program to prevent future violations.

In addition to the agreed fine, NCL has agreed to make community service payments in the total amount of $500,000 to two Florida-based environmental organizations as a condition of its probation.

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