News from the world of cruising ~
October 1-7, 2001
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CRYSTAL CRUISES REMINDS GUESTS THAT ITINERARIES ARE UNCHANGED & DEALS ARE AVAILABLE
PROMOTIONAL SAVINGS AND LAND PROGRAMS FEATURED ON CRYSTAL CRUISES' 2001 AND 2002 CRUISE PROGRAMS
-- DESTINATIONS REMAIN AS SCHEDULED --
LOS ANGELES, Oct 5, 2001 -- While the cruise industry, airlines and tour operators have been announcing schedule and deployment changes, luxury cruise operator Crystal Cruises is reminding travelers that its 2001 and 2002 programs will remain the same - with a range of strong savings opportunities and value-added land programs.
Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, consistently rated the World's Best by the leading travel magazines and guidebooks, will follow their scheduled patterns of varied North American cruises, including Panama Canal,
Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and Alaska cruises, as well as getaways to South America, the Orient, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. For those who yearn for the ultimate exotic voyage, yet prefer to minimize long flights,
Crystal is offering a 100-day Grand Pacific Circle World Cruise round-trip
from Los Angeles to South America, Australia, Asia and back to North
America. Rich daytime programming and sophisticated, stylish evening
entertainment, hallmarks of the Crystal experience, complement each of the
cruise itineraries.
Below is a round-up of Crystal's fall schedule, 2002 programs and their
accompanying promotional offers. Fares quoted are per person, based on
double occupancy accommodations.
Fall Panama Canal: 10- to 11-day cruises
Departures - Nov. 1, 12, 23
"Value Collection" fares from $1,595 (up to 57% savings)
Caribbean: 9- to 14-day cruises
Departures - Dec. 3, 13, 22 (Holiday)
"Value Collection" fares from $1,495 (up to 59% savings)
Mexican Riviera: 14-day cruise
Departure - Dec. 21 (Holiday)
New round-trip Los Angeles, cruise fares from $4,495 (up to 41% savings)
Trans-Atlantic: 11-day cruise
Departure - Nov. 25
"Value Collection" fares from $2,195 (up to 61% savings)
Mexican Riviera & Panama Canal: 13-day cruises
Departures - Jan. 4, 5
"Value Collection" fares from $2,495 (up to 2-for-1 savings)
South America & Cape Horn: 13- to 17-day cruises
Departures - Jan. 29, Feb. 25, March 11
"Value Collection" fares from $2,295 (up to 58% savings)
Optional 3-night pre- or post-cruise program from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls for only $995
2002 Grand Pacific Circle: 13- to 100-day cruises
Departures - Jan. 17 through March 25
"World Value" fares from $5,190 (up to 35% savings)
Spring Panama Canal: 16-day cruise
Departure - April 27
"Value Collection" fares from $4,455 (up to 45% savings)
China, Japan & Asia: 14- to 15-day cruises including complimentary 3-night Beijing land program
Departures - April 17, 25, May 10, 19
"Perfect Harmony" fares from $3,795 (up to 43% savings)
Trans-Pacific: 10- to 13-day cruises
Departures - March 24, April 3, June 3
"Value Collection" fares from $1,995 (up to 54% savings)
Alaska & Canada: 10- to 12-day cruises
Departures - June 14, 24, July 4, 16, 28, Aug. 9, 21, Sept. 2, 14
"Value Collection" fares from $2,085 (up to 2-for-1 savings)
Trans-Atlantic: 9- to 11-day cruises
Departures - May 13, Nov. 6
"Value Collection" fares from $2,310 (up to 2-for-1 savings)
Baltic Sea & Russia, British Isles & Northern Europe: 10- to 14-day cruises
Departures - May 22, June 1, 13, 25, July 7, 19, Aug. 2
"Value Collection" fares from $3,325 (up to 2-for-1 savings)
Mediterranean & Western Europe: 12- to 13-day cruises
Departures - Aug. 13, 25, Sept. 6, 18, Oct. 1, 13, 25
Fares from $5,620 (up to 30% savings)
Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. Itinerary and product information are detailed on the luxury line's web site, www.crystalcruises.com and in the 2002 Cruise Atlas, which is available by calling 800.820.6663. Source: Crystal Cruises
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CRYSTAL CRUISES CREATES NEW THREE-NIGHT PROGRAM TO IGUAZÚ FALLS FOR $995
Luxury Line Debuts Pre- and Post-Cruise Option at More Than 2-for-1 Savings
LOS ANGELES, Oct 5, 2001 - In conjunction with Crystal Harmony's 2002 winter South America series, luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is introducing an optional three-night pre- and post-cruise program from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls. Valued at $2,000 for all meals, flights, and accommodations, Crystal is offering this three-night land program for only $995 per person, double occupancy. Included are visits to both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of Iguazú National Park.
The new Iguazú Falls excursion is available after Crystal Harmony's 17-day cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Buenos Aires on Jan. 29, which calls in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Fortaleza, Salvador and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (during the city's festive Carnaval celebration); and before her 14-day voyage from Buenos Aires to Valparaíso, Chile on Feb. 25, which visits Montevideo, Uruguay; Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Port Stanley, Falkland Islands; Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt, Chile. She concludes her South America series with a 13-day cruise from Valparaíso, Chile to Acapulco, Mexico on March 11.
The new three-night program begins with a city tour and overnight stay in Buenos Aires, followed by a flight to Iguazú National Park, site of 275 thunderous cascades and waterfalls that travel over a 2.5 mile long precipice and plummet 230 feet into the gorge below. Highlights of the program include panoramic views of Devil's Gorge and the surrounding falls on both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, as well as opportunities to experience them on foot. A guide will lead walks along the lush basin of the Devil's Gorge, and over and under splashing torrents of falling water.
The region is also home to tropical flowers, ferns and plants, and exotic butterflies and birds. The tour includes two nights at the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel, and one at the Sheraton Internacional Iguazú Resort. For those guests looking for a more in-depth exploration of Argentina, the line is also offering a five-night extended land program featuring the Yacutinga Wildlife Nature Reserve, an environmentally friendly haven located in the heart of the nation's rainforest, in addition to Buenos Aires and Iguazú Falls.
Crystal Cruises offers South American Value & Value Collection fares with up to 58% savings, starting at $2,295 per person, double occupancy for the 13-day voyage. Optional one- to three-night pre- and post-cruise hotel stays are available in Buenos Aires and Santiago, Chile.
At 50,000 tons carrying only 940 guests, the elegant Crystal Harmony is a spacious floating resort. The award-winning ship offers expansive decks, exquisitely-appointed staterooms (more than half with private verandahs), a variety of entertainment lounges for acclaimed, Broadway-style shows, gourmet dining including Asian and Italian specialty restaurants and "Valentino at Prego" selections from the renowned restaurants (Los Angeles and Las Vegas), a full-service spa, and the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino.
For the sixth consecutive year, Crystal Cruises was named best large-ship cruise line in the 2001 readers' survey conducted by Travel + Leisure magazine. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure on South America or any other worldwide destination, call 800.820.6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's web site at www.crystalcruises.com. Source: Crystal Cruises
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CRUISE INDUSTRY UNDERSCORES SECURITY PREPAREDNESS TO CONGRESS
WASHINGTON (Oct. 5, 2001) Within hours after the events of September 11, cruise lines were operating at Level III (highest) security measures, according to testimony before the U.S. Senate by Michael Crye, president of the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL).
Crye told the panel, "As a result of the attacks in September, we implemented Level III security [the highest level] even before it was ordered by the Coast Guard." Level III security measures are included in the U.S. Coast Guards Security for Passenger Vessels and Passenger Terminals regulations. Level III measures implemented include:
· Screening of all passenger baggage, carry-on luggage, ship stores and cargo.
· Intensified screening of passenger lists and passenger identification.
· Close coordination with the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service and other federal agencies to ensure that those passengers and crew suspected of being on the INS "Prevent Departure" list are promptly reported to the federal authorities for further action.
· Restricted access to any sensitive vessel areas, such as the bridge, the engine room and other areas throughout the ship where operations are conducted.
· Onboard security measures designed to maximize shipboard security and deter unauthorized entry and illegal activity.
· Requirement by all commercial vessels to give 96 hours notice before entering U.S. ports. Previously, ships were required to give 24 hours notice. Also a 100-yard security zone has implemented around cruise ships.
Crye emphasized the commitment of the cruise industry to its passengers and crew. "The cruise industry's highest priority is to ensure the safety and security of all our passengers and crew," he told the committee. This country can and will unite to exercise one of our most cherished freedoms, the freedom to travel. It is up to us to ensure that we protect not only the freedom, but to ensure that those whose goal is to disrupt our way of life are not successful. We in the cruise industry will do everything possible to protect those who choose this outstanding and safe vacation."
The complete text of the testimony is located on the ICCL website: www.iccl.org/pressroom/index.html. Source: ICCL
ICCL is a cruise industry trade association that represents the interests of 16 passenger cruise lines in the North American cruise market and more than 65 cruise industry suppliers. ICCL member lines operate 95 vessels that call upon major ports in the United States and abroad. These vessels carry more than six million passengers each year and account for approximately 90% of the North American passenger cruise line industry.
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL & CELEBRITY CRUISES LAUNCH E-MERCHANDISE SITES
MIAMI - Oct 4, 2001 - Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises announced today the launch of their e-merchandise consumer websites, which enable guests, travel agents, incentive groups, and employees worldwide to purchase a wide selection of logo merchandise via the Internet. The retail partner, eCompanyStore, headquartered in Atlanta, will provide customized, corporate-branded apparel and accessories for consumers, incentives and employee merchandise needs.
"In the past, our guests and travel agents were only able to purchase logo merchandise onboard our vessels," said Barbara Shrut, vice president, Customer Loyalty, Royal Caribbean International. "Now everyone will be able to purchase branded logo merchandise from the comfort of their home or office, twenty-four hours a day."
Consumers may access the Royal Caribbean Store online at www.royalcaribbean.com, by selecting the Gift Catalog and Royal Caribbean Store merchandise links. The Celebrity Cruises Shop for consumers may be accessed by selecting the Gifts and More link at www.celebritycruises.com. Customers can browse apparel and merchandise items, such as embroidered polo shirts, Caribbean-theme picture frames, and even martini shakers. Items are organized by merchandise categories, and a real-time inventory feature shows what is in stock.
First-time customers will be asked to perform a one-time registration process, prior to purchasing any items. Merchandise will be placed in a shopping cart, as they are selected for purchase, and can be reviewed before checkout via the view cart icon. Gift certificates are also available for purchasing merchandise online.
All travel agents and incentive partners can access the Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises Insignia Collections by logging on to either www.royalincentives.com or www.celebrityincentives.com. After registration, travel partners will be able to access volume-based pricing discounts for merchandise, and customize apparel with client logos. Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises' employees will be able to purchase items via the company's Intranet system.
Renowned for developing Internet software solutions, eCompanyStore is a top innovator of technology and business, and operates approximately 70 on-line corporate programs for clients such as Microsoft, Home Box Office, Sun America and Colgate Palmolive.
"We are pleased to partner with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises to provide quality signature products to thousands of consumers and cruise guests, worldwide." said Rick Warner, vice president and chief information officer. For information on how to access the new sites, please call the customer service desk at 1-877-588-8932.
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 22 ships in service and seven under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates land-tour vacations in Alaska utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com and www.celebritycruises.com
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NEW TEEN CLUB DEBUTS ON 'FUN SHIP' FASCINATION
MIAMI (10/04/01) - The first dedicated facility for teens in the Carnival fleet was recently introduced on the line's 2,052-passenger "Fun Ship" Fascination. Geared toward 16- to 18-year-old guests, the new "Backstreet Club" features a CD jukebox stocked with the latest rock, R&B, rap and hip-hop hits, as well as state-of-the-art sound and lighting system and a large dance floor.
The facility also houses a bank of Internet-connected Apple iMac computers, Sony PlayStation 2 video game units and a "mocktail lounge" serving non-alcoholic versions of Carnival's popular frozen specialty drinks. A karaoke machine and a library featuring teen-oriented magazines are included, as well.
With the creation of the "Backstreet Club," a new "teen club manager" position has been created with responsibility of overseeing the various activities taking place within the facility. According to Carnival President Bob Dickinson, older teens comprise a significant portion of the record 350,000 children expected to sail on the line next year and the new "Backstreet Club" is specifically designed to cater to this growing market.
"Older teens have their own unique vacation expectations and this new facility offers 16- to 18-year-olds a fun, exciting place to call their own and further demonstrates our efforts at providing guests of all ages with a high quality vacation experience," he said.
The new "teen club" complements the Fascination's full schedule of fun, supervised activities, and indoor and outdoor play areas available as part of the line's complimentary fleetwide "Camp Carnival" program, offered for children ages 2-15. Other "family-friendly" features aboard the Fascination include three swimming pools, one with a 115-foot-long water slide, a video game room, special children's menus in the main dining rooms, and a turn-down service offering chocolate chip cookies at bedtime. A nightly babysitting service is also available for a nominal fee.
The SuperLiner Fascination sails year-round from Miami on three-day Bahamas and four-day western Caribbean cruises. Three-day cruises departing Fridays overnight in Nassau while four-day cruises departing Mondays call at Key West and Playa del Carmen/Cozumel.
Carnival plans to add teen clubs to other vessels within the "Fun Ship" fleet, particularly those operating short cruises (less than five days in length), which generally attract more families than longer length voyages. The Imagination, which operates four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from Miami, is the next Carnival vessel scheduled to be retrofitted with a teen club. For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups). Information and reservations are also available on-line at www.carnival.com.
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HORIZON & ZENITH REPOSITION TO CARIBBEAN FROM PHILADELPHIA AND BALTIMORE
MIAMI, Oct 3, 2001 - The Celebrity Cruises ships Horizon and Zenith will reposition to the Caribbean from Philadelphia and Baltimore, respectively, where the ships have been sailing from since the terrorist attack in New York.
Horizon will depart Philadelphia on October 27, on an eight-night sailing to Oranjestad, Aruba, with port calls in Nassau, Bahamas; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Basseterre, St. Kitts.
On November 4, Horizon departs Oranjestad, Aruba on a five-night cruise to Miami, with port calls in Willemstad, Curacao and Key West, Florida.
On November 9, Horizon begins sailing seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami, throughout the winter, departing on Friday evenings. The ship will make port calls in Key West, Florida; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico.
Zenith will depart Baltimore on October 27, on a seven-night sailing to Bridgetown, Barbados, with port calls in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Basseterre, St. Kitts.
On November 3, Zenith departs Bridgetown, Barbados on an eight-night cruise to Tampa, with port calls in Castries, St. Lucia; St. John's, Antigua; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Key
West, Florida.
On November 11, Zenith begins sailing seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Tampa, throughout the winter, departing on Sundays. The ship will make port calls in Key West, Florida; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Georgetown, Grand Cayman.
Celebrity will provide ground transportation from New York to Philadelphia and Baltimore to assist guests in reaching their ship. Specific pick-up locations and times are available through guests' travel agents and Celebrity Cruises.
Celebrity also will provide Horizon and Zenith guests departing from Philadelphia and Baltimore with a certificate for a 25-percent discount on a future seven-night Celebrity cruise, redeemable for cruises departing through December 15, 2002, excluding June, July and holiday sailings.
Guests may reach Celebrity Cruises at 1-800-437-3111. Guests calling from the United Kingdom or Ireland should dial +44 (0) 1932-834440. Guests calling from France should dial 0800 204060. Guests calling from Scandinavia should dial +47 22 51-3780. All other international guests should contact their local cruise representatives.
Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Summit enters service in October, and Constellation will make its maiden voyage in 2002, bringing the Celebrity fleet to nine ships. For more information, visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com. Source: Celebrity Cruises
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NORDIC EMPRESS REPOSITONS TO CARIBBEAN FROM PHILADELPHIA
MIAMI, Oct 3, 2001 - The Royal Caribbean International ship Nordic Empress will reposition to the Caribbean from Philadelphia, where the ship has been sailing from since the terrorist attack in New York.
Nordic Empress will depart Philadelphia on October 21, on an eight-night sailing to San Juan, Puerto Rico, with port calls in King's Wharf, Bermuda and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
On October 29, Nordic Empress begins sailing four- and five-night Southern Caribbean cruises from San Juan, throughout the winter, departing on alternating Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The five-night alternating Monday departures will make port calls in Basseterre, St. Kitts; Castries, St. Lucia; and Bridgetown, Barbados. The four-night alternating Thursday departures will make port calls in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The five-night alternating Saturday departures will make port calls in Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. John's, Antigua.
Royal Caribbean will provide ground transportation from New York to Philadelphia to assist guests in reaching their ship. Specific pick-up locations and times are available through guests' travel agents and Royal Caribbean International.
Royal Caribbean also will provide Nordic Empress guests departing from Philadelphia with a certificate for a 25-percent discount on a future Royal Caribbean cruise of up to seven nights, redeemable for cruises departing through December 15, 2002, excluding June, July and holiday sailings.
Guests may reach Royal Caribbean International at 1-800-327-6700. Guests calling from the United Kingdom or Ireland should dial +44 (0) 1932-834440. Guests calling from France should dial 0800 204060. Guests calling from Scandinavia should dial +47 22 51-3780. All other international guests should contact their local cruise representatives.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 14 ships in service and six under construction or on firm order. For more information about the cruise line, please visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com. Source: RCI
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VARIED ITINERARIES AND PERFECT HARMONY FARES DISTINGUISH CRYSTAL CRUISES' 2002 ALASKA SERIES
Denali Park Excursion Offered For The First Time Since 1998
LOS ANGELES, Oct 3, 2001 - While luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is known for its round-trip San Francisco cruises to Alaska, in 2002 Crystal Harmony will vary its season with three 10-day itineraries between Vancouver, British Columbia and Seward, Alaska or San Francisco, California; as well as six 12-day round-trip San Francisco voyages. In all, Crystal Cruises has set nine sailings to "The Last Frontier" for summer 2002. The luxury line has also announced new Perfect Harmony fares of up to 40% savings off previously published brochure prices. Departures are available on June 14 and 24; July 4, 16 and 28; Aug. 9 and 21; and Sept. 2 and 14, 2002.
Depending on the itinerary, the luxury vessel will visit the Alaskan ports of Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan; Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada; and cruise the Gulf of Alaska, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage.
"Even though we offer some of the most exotic itineraries in the world, Crystal Harmony's Alaska programs continue to be among our highest-rated destinations, according to guest surveys," says Adam Leavitt, senior vice president, marketing. "Even the most seasoned world travelers enjoy revisiting the unique scenery and wildlife of Alaska, while appreciating the comfort factor of vacationing close to home."
Throughout the 2002 Alaska season, geologists, historians and naturalists will be on board to provide travelers with information and insight on the 49th state's unique treasures. As Alaska is an ideal destination for multiple generations, Crystal boasts a well-supervised children's program, with experienced Junior Counselors and guest naturalists for a full slate of activities geared toward the natural wonders of the Last Frontier. In addition, several of Crystal Harmony's 2002 Alaska voyages are specially designated theme cruises, including Yoga, Health and Fitness (June 24); Crystal Wine & Food Festival (July 4, 16, 28 and Sept. 14); and Classical Music (Sept. 2). A range of more than 50 shore excursions and extended land programs are also in development to enhance guests' appreciation of the region.
Crystal's Alaska cruise fares start as low as $2,085 per person, double occupancy, for the Sept. 14 Value Collection sailing. Perfect Harmony pricing is offered on all other departures. With the new promotion, cruise fares for the 10-day voyages in June start at $2,575 per person, double occupancy, and the 12-day round-trip San Francisco cruises begin at $2,975 per person, double occupancy.
For those guests wishing to extend their Alaskan cruise experience, Crystal Cruises offers several options. For the first time in four years, the luxury line is offering an extended Denali Park Package, available only in conjunction with the line's first Alaska sailing on June 14. In addition to exploration of the Park's colossal mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and wildlife, the five-night program features overnight stays in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Most meals and hotel accommodations at charming properties such as the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge are included for $2,570 per person, double occupancy.
The line's custom-developed "Wine-Making Traditions of Napa Valley" is available prior to all cruises starting in San Francisco. Highlights of the three-night program include intimate visits of the Trefethen, St. Supery, Niebaum-Coppola and Domaine Chandon wineries, gourmet fare at the Culinary Institute of America and Auberge Du Soleil, among other acclaimed restaurants, and accommodations at San Francisco's luxurious Fairmont Hotel and Yountville's Vintage Inn for $2,170 per person, double occupancy. Travelers who wish to spend additional time in the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and San Francisco can take advantage of special pre- or post-cruise one- to three-night hotel stays, at Vancouver's Four Seasons Hotel or the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco, starting at $245 for the first night and $150 each additional night. Hotel prices are per person, double occupancy and include hotel tax/porterage, airport/hotel/ship transfers, and Crystal Cruises Hospitality Desk services.
For those guests who prefer to enjoy San Francisco by car, or drive rather than fly, Crystal Cruises has teamed with the Port of San Francisco to provide secure and convenient parking near the cruise terminal.
At 50,000 tons carrying only 940 guests, the elegant Crystal Harmony is a spacious floating resort. The award-winning ship offers expansive decks, exquisitely-appointed staterooms (more than half with private verandahs), a variety of entertainment lounges for acclaimed, Broadway-style shows, gourmet dining including Japanese and Italian specialty restaurants and "Valentino at Prego" selections from the renowned restaurants (Los Angeles and Las Vegas), a full-service spa, and the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino.
For the sixth consecutive year Crystal Cruises was named best large cruise line in the 2001 readers' survey conducted by Travel + Leisure magazines, and outscored all other cruise lines, large- and small-ship, for the fifth time. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary brochure on Alaska 2002 or any other worldwide destination, call 800-820-6663. Visit the luxury cruise line's Web site at www.crystalcruises.com. Source: Crystal Cruises
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COMPLIMENTARY "EXCLUSIVELY SEABOURN" SHORESIDE EXPERIENCES UNVEILED
Specially-Created Events & Performances Highlight Ultra Luxury Cruises
MIAMI, Oct 3, 2001---Ultra luxury small-ship pioneer Seabourn Cruise Line has announced the initial lineup of custom-designed shoreside experiences it will offer to guests free of charge aboard its fleet of intimate, all-suite ships in 2002. In one port of call on each cruise aboard Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend, guests will enjoy insights into local culture, art, history, cuisine and other aspects specific to the destination on complimentary shoreside experiences designed and reserved especially for them.
"Seabourn's guests are sophisticated, passionate travelers who seek exceptional experiences when they travel," said Seabourn Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Richard Meadows. "Seabourn has always created unique shore excursions, which we call our Signature Series. Our new Exclusively Seabourn shoreside adventures combine sightseeing, cultural insights, arts performances and people-to-people contact to create a veritable backstage pass to the world. These will be a gift to our guests. Every guest on every cruise will have a privileged, personal experience only available to Seabourn guests."
Over 30 Exclusively Seabourn experiences have been designed to date. A few examples are:
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Guests cruise by glass-roofed canal boat to the Historical Museum, an architectural and cultural gem off the usual tourist track, for an exclusive evening tour with the curators. Drinks and Dutch delicacies are served as musicians and singers stroll the halls regaling privileged Seabourn Guests.
Barcelona, Spain: Few visitors are aware of the Monastery of Pedralbes located in an exclusive residential quarter of the city, or of the collection of masterworks by Tintoretto, Rubens, Canaletto and other artists that adorn its small rooms. Curators proudly show Seabourn guests their treasures. In the Refectory, classical music and refreshments welcome guests to this secret salon, favored by Barcelona's artistic and cultural elite.
Malaga, Spain: Evening along the Costa del Sol signals a daily ritual as Malagueñas stroll the waterfront to their favorite tapas bars. A local aficionado has granted the privilege of reserving his own "best" tapas bar for the evening, just for Seabourn guests. Enjoy a variety of the savory small dishes along with beer, wine and sangría as guitarists inflame local flamenco artists into passionate performance.
Manta, Ecuador: Sr. Carlos Gonzalez Artigas, one of Manta's proudest and most prominent citizens, invites Seabourn guests to enjoy Ecuadorean hospitality at his private villa and gardens. In the elegant rooms and manicured grounds, guests meet and mingle with Sr. Artigas' friends and associates over cocktails, coming to know Manta in a special way. Local handicraft artisans demonstrate their skills and the Jacchigua, the National Folklore Ballet, performs a traditional Ribbon Dance.
Sorrento, Italy: Seabourn guests are invited to an insider's view of the local arts scene. Teatro Tasso is a handsome, newly renovated theater in Sorrento's historic centro. Here guests will enjoy a private performance of a fanciful, locally-produced musical review highlighting daily life in Southern Italy. After the show, the cast invites guests to join them on the theater terrace, with breathtaking views of Sorrento and the Bay of Naples, for luscious Neapolitan refreshments and a romantic mandolin serenade.
Exclusively Seabourn experiences are another in a continuing series of refinements being introduced aboard the award-winning Yachts of Seabourn. Elements already introduced include complimentary fine wines and spirits throughout every cruise, free mini-massages on deck, fluffy towels and bathrobes of fine Egyptian cotton and popular Movies Under the Stars on deck. Further refinements that have been announced for 2002 include exciting new dinner menus created by renowned chef Charlie Palmer and Seabourn's Pure Pampering program, featuring fine personal wellbeing products and a selection of soothing and revitalizing bathing experiences by Molton Brown, London.
The yachts of Seabourn provide the ultimate in small-ship, ultra-luxury cruise vacations to the most desirable destinations on earth. The Seabourn fleet includes Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend. Seabourn Cruise Line: 1-800-929-9391 Website: www.seabourn.com. Source: Seabourn Cruise Line
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ROYAL OLYMPIC CRUISES ANNOUNCES YEAR ROUND CRUISES FROM HOUSTON THROUGH APRIL 5, 2003 ON THE SPEEDY OLYMPIA VOYAGER
Texans Support in Olympia Voyager During Inaugural Season Results in Ships Return in 2002 for a Series of Roundtrip Sailings
NEW YORK (Oct 1, 2001) - Royal Olympic Cruises today announced details on year round sailings from the Port of Houston through April of 2003. With cruises available for as low as $750*, Texans will be able to visit exotic ports of call in the Caribbean and Central America while enjoying the newest and fastest ship sailing from the Port of Houston.
With the ability to travel comfortably at speeds as high as 28 knots, the Olympia Voyager is the fastest cruise ship in the world. The ships high speed, attributed to its proprietary Fast Monohull design, enables the sleek ship to feature itineraries that no other cruise ship can match.
In response to increased interest in cruising from passengers and our travel partners in the Houston area, we are pleased to return to the Port of Houston with the Olympia Voyager for a series of unique itineraries in 2002, said Yiannos Pantazis, Royal Olympics Chief Executive Officer.
The state-of-the-art Olympia Voyager will begin cruising from Houston on the following sailings:
February 4, 2002 - 12-day Panama Canal cruise, starting rates of $1,659*
February 16, 2002 - 7-day Tropical Explorer I, starting rates of $997*
February 23, 2002 - 7-day Tropical Explorer II, starting rates of $997*
March 2, 2002 - 7-day Tropical Explorer III, starting rates of $997*
March 9, 2002 - 7-day Tropical Explorer II, starting rates of $997*
March 16, 2002 - 9-day Maya Equinox, starting rates of $1,264*
March 25, 2002 - 5-day Mayaribbean, starting rate $750*
The Olympia Voyager will then continue her Houston 7-day Tropical Explorer II itinerary, beginning March 30, 2002 through April 5, 2003, visiting the ports of Isla de Roatán and Puerto Cortés, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, Mexico. Starting rates of $997*.
*Rates are per person, based on double occupancy and include port charges.
We are pleased to welcome Royal Olympic Cruises to Houston again in 2002 to enable the southwestern U.S. market to enjoy new offerings to the Panama Canal, the Caribbean and South America, said James T. Edmonds, chairman of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority. Royal Olympics unique itineraries will provide this area with the highest level of Greek hospitality, service and extensive cultural enhancement programs.
Royal Olympic Cruises and its predecessors have served the Texas market since 1976. The 836-passenger Olympia Voyager makes a new statement for 21st century cruising as a ship that is bold and technologically innovative, while maintaining the sophisticated shipboard atmosphere essential to a premium cruise experience.
Royal Olympic is the largest cruise operator in the Eastern Mediterranean. With decades of cruise experience in the Aegean, Caribbean, Central and South America, Royal Olympic Cruises provides distinctive, destination-focused itineraries and an extensive onboard cultural enrichment program - all at remarkable value with the highest level of Greek hospitality and service. Cruises range from 3 to 58 days, departing from Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, Rome and Athens. Royal Olympics fleet of eight mid-size ships includes the 836-passenger, state-of-the-art Olympia Voyager (launched June 2000) and Olympia Explorer (debuts 2002) - the fastest cruise ships in the world offering incomparable itineraries at 28-knot service speed. Royal Olympics exceptional cruise experience has led to strong demand and successful financial growth in the past year. For reservations or more information, contact a travel agent. Source: Royal Olympic Cruises
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Silversea Cruises Update - Fleet Redeployment
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 1 -- Following the events of September 11th, and the subsequent impact on leisure travel, Silversea Cruises today announced changes to its fleet deployment through 2002. The line will use this time to refurbish one of its ships, and will position its other three ships in destinations that are most attractive to its customers.
The changes will affect the programs for Silver Wind and Silver Cloud only. Itineraries for Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper remain in place. A summary of ships and their respective 2002 destinations follows.
"We have made strategic decisions regarding our deployment during this time of transition. Following Silver Wind's scheduled October dry dock, we will temporarily remove that ship from service through 2002 and operate with a three-ship fleet. While we firmly believe that consumer confidence is returning, this move allows us to maintain strong load factors and to protect our price point with as little disruption to our customers and our product as possible," said Silversea's CEO Albert Peter.
Silver Wind
Silver Wind will enter its scheduled dry dock in October 2001 for a comprehensive refurbishment. Effective December 5, sister ship Silver Cloud, which recently underwent an extensive refurbishment, will assume Silver Wind's 2001 holiday itineraries as well as its 2002 program of cruises throughout Europe and the Americas. The line has canceled three Silver Wind itineraries in October/November 2001 that were originally scheduled to cruise the Middle East and Africa. Travel agents with passengers booked on these cruises (departure dates: October 24, November 5, November 19), are being contacted to offer their clients alternative arrangements.
Silver Cloud
As a result of this redeployment, Silver Cloud's 2002 program of cruises will be canceled. The ship was to spend January-August in the Far East, and September-December in the South Pacific. Travel agents with passengers booked on any of the affected Silver Cloud itineraries are being contacted to offer their clients alternative arrangements.
Silversea Fleet/Destination Summary 2002
Silver Cloud: Jan-Mar World Cruise: The Americas, South Africa, Europe Apr-Oct Europe Nov-Dec The Americas
Silver Shadow: Jan-Apr South Pacific, Far East, South Africa May-Sept Europe Sept-Dec The Americas
Silver Whisper: Jan-Apr South America, South Africa May-Oct Europe Nov-Dec North America
Source: Silversea Cruises
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Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises Make Special Offer To Renaissance Cruises' Guests
MIAMI, Oct. 1 -- Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have implemented a special onboard credit program for guests previously booked with Renaissance Cruises. Effective immediately, an onboard credit will be given to every guest previously booked to sail with Renaissance Cruises that books a cruise on Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises by 10/31/01.
Onboard credit amounts are applicable on all sailings through 4/30/02. Onboard credits are on a per-guest basis for 1st and 2nd guests only. In order to be eligible, participants must fax their confirmed Renaissance Cruises booking to 1-800-RCCL-FAX.
Onboard credit amounts vary by cruise length and are as follows:
2 - 5 Night $25 per 1st and 2nd guest
7+ Night $50 per 1st and 2nd guest
10+ Night $75 per 1st and 2nd guest
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 22 ships in service and seven under construction or on firm order. Royal Celebrity Tours operates land-tour vacations in Alaska utilizing the world's largest glass-domed railcars. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com & www.celebritycruises.com. Source: RCI
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Cruise Lines Assist Guests by 'Staying Connected' With Trend-Setting Communications Systems
NEW YORK, Oct. 1 -- One would suppose that cruisers would want to leave phones, faxes, email and the Internet behind. The fact is, though, that today's traveler needs to feel in touch, so the cruise lines are responding with communication breakthroughs.
Of course, many cruisers choose to simply "pull the plug" on their connections while on vacation. But there are many others who wish, or need, to indulge in surfing the net, sending and receiving email or keeping up with the latest financial, sports or world news on a 24-hour basis. And there even are some who want to learn about the Internet, email and the latest communication devices.
Virtually all the major cruise companies can assure satisfaction to any passenger who wants to be "connected" as well as serenely relaxed on a cruise.
In addition to the Internet access available on many of today's ships, most lines also offer more traditional telecommunications methods, such as in-cabin phones with long-distance capability, fax services, closed-circuit and satellite television.
"The choice of whether, how and how much to stay connected with home or business is up to each guest," says James G. Godsman, president of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). "For those who want to accept and send messages on a continual, instantaneous basis, the option is there; for those who truly want to 'disconnect,' they never need go near a phone, fax or computer."
For more information about the latest trends in cruise vacations, contact one of the nearly 20,000 CLIA-affiliated travel agencies across the U.S. and Canada, or visit CLIA's website www.cruising.org. SOURCE CLIA
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