News from the world of cruising ~
November 21-30, 2001
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HOLLAND AMERICA LINE OFFERS 2 NEW SHIPS, 360 CRUISES FROM U.S. AND MORE IN 2002
Seattle, Nov 30, 2001 - Holland America Line, the world leader in premium cruising, introduces the ms Prinsendam and ms Zuiderdam in 2002 and features 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households, adding Seattle and Port Canaveral for a total of 15 U.S. and Canadian home ports.
Offering a premium cruise vacation that's "Oceans Apart" from the competition, Holland America visits more than 280 ports of call and scenic cruising destinations on all seven continents. Sailing to the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe, Asia/South Pacific and more, the award-winning five-star fleet includes the 1,214-passenger ms Noordam, 1,494-passenger ms Westerdam, 1,266-passenger ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam and ms Veendam, 1,316-passenger ms Rotterdam, 1,440-passenger ms Volendam and ms Zaandam, 1,380-passenger ms Amsterdam, the new 794-passenger ms Prinsendam and the new 1,848-passenger ms Zuiderdam.
Two New Ships -- The Prinsendam (formerly Seabourn Sun), debuting June 3, offers eight passenger decks, plus 15 public rooms including an alternative restaurant. More than 90 percent of its staterooms have an ocean view and nearly 40 percent offer private verandahs. The new Zuiderdam, debuting Dec. 14, is the first of five new Vista series ships, an features exterior sea-view elevators and a wide range of spacious verandah staterooms. Other new amenities: a "cabaret-style" show lounge, three-deck main show lounge, disco, "round-the-clock" café, the largest spa in the fleet, data ports in all staterooms, and an extensive Club HAL children's facility.
Caribbean -- Highlights of Holland America's 150 Caribbean sailings include the Zaandam on new seven-day cruises from Port Canaveral; new 10-day cruises on board the flagships Rotterdam and Amsterdam roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale (Rotterdam cruises feature a visit to the Panama Canal); the inaugural cruises of the Zuiderdam; a new Orinoco River cruise; and new Veendam cruises from Tampa. Most Caribbean cruises visit Half Moon Cay, the company's private island paradise and a role model visitor destination providing an enhanced Bahamian experience while maintaining a positive balance with the natural environment.
Alaska -- The leader in Alaska travel offers 115 cruises, highlighted by the debut of the Amsterdam on seven-day roundtrip cruises from Seattle. The Amsterdam, Volendam, Zaandam, Ryndam, Statendam and Veendam sail three itineraries featuring the scenic Inside Passage and offering glacier viewing at Glacier Bay National Park, giant Hubbard Glacier or beautiful College Fjord. The cruises offer exclusive Alaska Native cultural programs: the Artists in Residence Program on all cruises and the Huna Interpretive Program on all ships visiting Glacier Bay. On the tour side, Holland America Tours (HAT) offers 31 cruisetours, featuring Holland America premium cruises, plus an exciting land-based experience. HAT also offers 19 land-only tours, including six new tour options for 2002.
Panama Canal -- A leading operator of Panama Canal cruises, Holland America offers 23 cruises in 2002 aboard five of its luxury liners. The cruises range from 10 to 21 days, depart January through October, and include an exceptionally wide variety of ports and itineraries and social hosts on all cruises.
Europe -- The Prinsendam and Noordam offer a captivating collection of European cruises ranging from 10 to 14 days and featuring major ports in the western Mediterranean, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, the Baltic Sea and northern Europe. Most cruises include the "Flagship Forum Lecture Series," a fascinating way for guests to learn from respected experts about such topics as European culture, history, art and architecture. Europe cruises of 14 days or longer, plus all transatlantic cruises and Prinsendam cruises, also feature social hosts.
Other Destinations -- Holland America is increasing its Mexico cruises from 12 to 22 sailings for 2002 and expanding its program of seven-day Mexican Riviera/Sea of Cortez cruises aboard the ms Ryndam from San Diego. The Statendam sails from San Diego on nine Circle Hawaii cruises. More than tripling the number of Eastern Canada/New England cruises, the Rotterdam, will offer 17 premium cruises ranging in length from seven to 10 days from New York, Montreal or Boston. The Ryndam will offer 12 South America cruises, two of which will feature the awe-inspiring scenery of the majestic continent of Antarctica. The Volendam will sail on two 32-day Asia Explorer and South Pacific Explorer Cruises in the fall. The Amsterdam sets sail in January on a 100-day Grand World Voyage, cruising west across the Pacific, then south around Africa to Rio de Janeiro.
On Board -- Holland America Line's high-value cruises offer a level of service that is nearly legendary in the industry, mid-size ships that afford a more intimate cruise experience, staterooms that are 25 percent larger than average, a 2:1 average ratio of staff to guests, a "tipping not required" policy, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, complete fitness centers, and many services and amenities at no additional cost such as espresso drinks, premium ice cream, popcorn at the movies, alternative restaurants and much more.
Holland America offers affordable air arrangements through its Home City Air program and the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back if guests need to cancel for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure.
Holland America Line is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the world in the 2001 "Travel & Leisure" magazine "World's Best" Awards and one of the word's three highest rated cruise lines in the 2000 "Conde Nast Traveler" Readers' Choice Awards. The company also has won its 10th consecutive "Best Overall Cruise Value" award from the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society (WOCLS). For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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NEW ITINERARIES & SWINGING BIG BAND THEME CRUISE HIGHLIGHT HOLLAND AMERICA'S TRANSATLANTIC CROSSINGS FOR 2002
Seattle, Nov 30, 2001 - For those seeking a leisurely premium cruise experience Holland America Line offers four transatlantic sailings in 2002 highlighted by new itineraries visiting Iceland and Greenland on board the flagship ms Rotterdam and the swinging sounds of the big band era on board the new ms Prinsendam.
Holland America's luxurious ships combine the classic ambiance of the days when ocean liners provided the only means to travel between Europe and the United States with all the amenities and on-board services that today's premium cruise vacationers expect. Elegant furnishings, antiques and works of art, sumptuous cuisine and an Old World charm create a warm, elegant shipboard atmosphere that returns guests to the glory days of transatlantic ocean travel.
"We have added more variety and ports because these cruises have proved so popular with our guests, who enjoy the additional relaxing days at sea," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "And, with the addition of new calls for Holland America at Greenland and Iceland, these cruises are sure to appeal to those with an adventuresome spirit."
The ms Noordam, sailing from its new seasonal port of Tampa on April 14, 2002, will make the first crossing of the season. The unhurried 12-day "Transatlantic Adventure" itinerary includes a call at Key West, with first landfall in Europe at Horta and Ponta Delgada, Azores; and ending with an overnight stay in Portugal's capital, Lisbon.
With Holland America Line's Best 2002 Europe Early Savings Fares (effective until Jan. 31, 2002) prices start at just US$899 [CAN$1,299] for a standard inside stateroom, and US$1,069 [CAN$1,550] for an ocean view stateroom. All fares are based on double occupancy and include port charges but not taxes.
New Prinsendam's Maiden Cruise Crosses the Atlantic Holland America Line's newest cruise ship, the 794-passenger ms Prinsendam, enters service in the spring of 2002. Its first cruise, a gala 10-day transatlantic crossing, departs New York for Southampton (London) on June 3. The big band theme cruise, featuring Guy Lombardo's Royal Canadians, features port calls at Halifax, Nova Scotia; Cobh (Cork), Ireland; and Plymouth, England. With Holland America Line's Best 2002 Europe Early Savings Fares (effective until Jan. 31, 2002) double occupancy prices start at just US$1,499 [CAN$2,189] for an inside stateroom and US$1,906 [CAN$2,762] for an ocean view stateroom.
Flagship Rotterdam to Call at Greenland, Iceland -- On Aug. 10, the flagship ms Rotterdam departs Boston on a new 16-day "Journey to the Northern Isles." The cruise features the French island of St.-Pierre; Saint John's, Newfoundland; Qaqortoq, Greenland; scenic cruising of Prince Christians Sound and Cape Farewell (conditions permitting); Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland; Torshavn, Faroe Islands; Kirkwall, Orkney Islands; Edinburgh, Scotland (Military Tattoo tour option); Amsterdam, The Netherlands (Floriade Flower Festival tour option); with Harwich, England, the port of disembarkation for London. With Holland America's Early Saver discount, double occupancy fares start at just US$2,879 [CAN$4,169] for an inside stateroom and US$3,650 [CAN$5,290] for an ocean view stateroom.
The Rotterdam follows that crossing with a first-time 17-day "Voyage of Discovery" departing Harwich on Aug. 26 and concluding in New York Sept. 12. From London, the ship sails to Le Havre, France (Normandy Beaches, Rouen and Paris tour options); then on to Guernsey, Channel Islands; Cobh (Cork) and Dublin, Ireland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Oban, Scotland; Reykjavik, Iceland; Prince Christians Sound and Cape Farewell (conditions permitting); Nuuk, Greenland; and St. John's, Newfoundland, before arriving at Manhattan. With Holland America's Early Saver discount, double occupancy fares start at US$3,139 [CAN$4,549] for inside staterooms and US$3,992 [CAN$5,786] for an ocean view stateroom.
Flagship Forum Lectures Enhance the Experience on Most Europe Cruises Most of Holland America's Europe cruises include the "Flagship Forum Lecture Series," a fascinating way for guests to learn about the regions visited. Depending on the itinerary, respected authorities speak on topics such as European history, art and architecture, Scandinavian literature and music or Mediterranean cuisine and culture.
Europe cruises of 14 days or longer, plus all transatlantic and Prinsendam cruises, feature gentlemen hosts on board to enhance single ladies' enjoyment of daytime and evening activities by providing company for dinner, dancing, conversation and excursions ashore. Guests may extend their vacation by booking connecting cruises in Europe or Eastern Canada/New England to combine with their transatlantic cruise. Holland America also offers an extensive selection of pre- and post-cruise tours so guests can savor in depth the cities of embarkation/disembarkation.
About Holland America Line
Holland America's premium cruises feature spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, casino, first-rate entertainment, duty-free on-board shops, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, the "Passport to Fitness" activity program and complete fitness center, coupled with popular "tipping not required" and "cashless" ship policies. Holland America Line has 11 luxury ships sailing to more than 280 ports of call and scenic cruising destinations on all seven continents, including Antarctica.
In 2002, Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports. Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure. For more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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Clipper Cruise Line Announces New Web Site Launch
Dear Traveler,
I'm delighted to announce that we've launched a new Web site for Clipper Cruise Line (a subsidiary of INTRAV), with a fresh new look, lots of pictures, and increased information and interactivity. We invite you to take a look at www.clippercruise.com.
We've tried to make our new site as easy-to-use as possible. Red buttons at the top of each screen allow you to go to pages detailing our voyages, our ships, and much more.
Click the "Voyages" button, and you will now be able to search our cruises by destination, departure month, price, or keyword. For each trip, a summary page with general information, a day-by-day schedule, and pricing is shown in a convenient format. By clicking the links within each trip, you can also see a detailed daily itinerary; expanded pricing (including sample airfares); ship details; and links to destination information and reading lists specific to that voyage.
Each of our four ships now also has its own section within the Web site, accessible from the "Ships" button, or from links within each individual voyage. A general description of the ship, deck plans, detailed information about what can be found aboard, statistics, and photos are included.
You'll also find secondary navigation in the blue column on the left-hand side of each page. Here you'll find details about our company and our style (look for our famous Clipper Chipper recipe here!), our affiliations, and so forth. A resource section provides information about our destinations, health resources, getting a passport, currencies, converters, reading lists, and more. Our newsroom shows all of our recent releases.
I hope you'll take a minute to peruse our new site. I would be very interested in hearing what you'd like to see featured, or what you would find useful. We will continue to enhance and add to our site in the coming months, and really appreciate your input. Please feel free to e-mail me directly with your ideas. We look forward to welcoming you to our "virtual" world!
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Royal Caribbean International Offers Festive Holiday Itineraries To The Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexican Riviera
MIAMI, Nov. 29 - The holiday season doesn't have to mean slaving over a hot stove for hours, cooking elaborate meals for 20 guests. Or making last-minute shopping trips to the mall on Christmas Eve. This year, give a gift every family member will enjoy--a cruise vacation.
This winter, Royal Caribbean International is offering unprecedented values on Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexican Riviera itineraries, making all-inclusive vacations affordable and hassle-free. Imagine unpacking only once and still exploring several of the safest, most exciting and breathtaking destinations in the world, all in one trip!
"Spending quality time with family and friends is more important than ever, and Royal Caribbean is committed to doing its part to help consumers rediscover the pleasures of cruise vacations this holiday season,'' explained Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Royal Caribbean International. "From our Adventure Ocean youth program to holiday-themed dinners and entertainment to luxurious spa services, our cruises entertain family members of all ages and interests.''
A sampling of Royal Caribbean's 2001 holiday cruises includes (all prices are per person, based on double occupancy):
* 4-night Mexican Riviera cruises roundtrip from Los Angeles (prices start at $409 departing December 24 and $689 departing December 31)
* 4-night Bahamas itineraries roundtrip from Miami (prices start at $629 departing December 24 and $509 departing December 31)
* 5-night Western Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale (prices start at $749 departing December 24 and $944 departing December 29)
* 7-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries roundtrip from Miami (prices start at $949 departing December 22)
* 7-night Southern Caribbean itineraries from San Juan, Puerto Rico (prices start at $799 departing December 22 and $899 departing December 29)
* 7-night Caribbean cruise from Galveston, TX to Aruba (prices start at $649 departing December 23)
* 11-night "Circle the Caribbean" cruise roundtrip from Miami (prices start at $999 departing December 31)
Holiday-themed entertainment includes Father Christmas appearances with elves, caroling and New Year's Eve celebrations with champagne, hats, noise-makers, tiaras and streamers. Decorated trees and menorahs adorn the ships, with gingerbread villages and other sugary masterpieces the center of attention in the dining halls. Eggnog parties and brunch menus offer turkey, halibut, beef Wellington, Hanukkah brisket, and eggplant cordon bleu (kosher meals are available upon request). Passengers searching for a more reflective way to spend the holidays can participate in interdenominational and midnight mass services on Christmas Eve.
The busiest venue on all Royal Caribbean International ships during the holiday season is the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program. Children make holiday crafts and puppets, bake cookies and animal figures, and perform in skits and talent shows. Early on Christmas morning, youth staff dressed as elves assemble children on the pool deck while Santa joins a parade of elves, musicians and kids making their way to the ship's main theater or lounge. Afterwards, each child receives a gift while sitting for a photo on Santa's lap.
Royal Caribbean offers an array of amenities and entertainment guaranteed to please passengers of all ages and interests. Lounge by the pool, get a massage in a full-service spa, sweat in a state-of-the-art fitness center, dance to the latest chart toppers in the disco, or hit the jackpot at the casino. The adventure doesn't stop while in port, either, as passengers can take advantage of a vast range of expeditions offered at each destination.
For further information, call 800-327-6700 or visit www.royalcaribbean.com.
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SEABOURN PUBLISHES REVISED 2002 CRUISE BROCHURE
Cruises Offered With Free Airfare or Cruise-Only Savings up to 50 Percent
MIAMI, Nov 29, 2001 - Ultra luxury cruise pioneer Seabourn Cruise Line has published a brochure featuring the revised 2002 spring, summer and fall season cruises aboard its three intimate Yachts of Seabourn: Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend. The 48-page full-color brochure highlights newly announced cruises in China, Korea, Japan and Alaska for the 104-couple Seabourn Spirit, as well as cruises in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Americas for the other two Seabourn yachts. Fares for all cruises are offered with two attractive savings options: Guests may choose Early Booking Savings of up to 30 percent and get free economy class airfare, with upgrades to business class air from $995 on selected cruises. Or they can book cruise-only and enjoy added savings up to 50 percent off the full published fare.
"At Seabourn, we believe the greatest luxury is the luxury of choice," said Rick Meadows, Seabourn's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "That's why we offer our guests two ways to save on our exclusive cruise vacations. Either way, they'll be enjoying the finest ultra luxury cruise experience available, full stop."
Complimentary "Exclusively Seabourn" Shore Experiences Featured
Every cruise itinerary in the brochure features an icon indicating the ports at which guests will enjoy a complimentary "Exclusively Seabourn" shoreside experience created just for them, as well as a brief description of the events. Examples include private visits to museums, performances by local artists, invitations to meet local dignitaries in their homes and other privileged experiences that are unavailable to independent travelers.
Onboard Refinements Outlined
The brochure also outlines a number of other enhancements and refinements to the cruise experience on the Yachts of Seabourn for 2002. Among those described are:
· All three ships have been completely refurbished, with balconies added to over 40 percent of suites.
· A complimentary open-bar policy adds to the private club ambience on all cruises.
· Exciting new cuisine designed by James Beard Award-winning Master Chef Charlie Palmer is served in the open-seating Restaurant.
· Complimentary Massage Moments are offered to guests as they relax on deck.
· "Pure Pampering" features luxurious beauty and wellbeing products by Molton Brown, London, including a menu of five aromatherapy bathing experiences.
The revised 2002 Yachts of Seabourn brochure may be ordered on the company's website at www.seabourn.com or by calling 1-800-929-9391 and following the prompts. Travel agents may order multiple copies of the brochure and a variety of other collateral marketing and sales tools in the Travel Agents area of the website by utilizing their CLIA or IATAN number as a password.
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.
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CELEBRITY PRESENTS FIRST CANADA & NEW ENGLAND SAILINGS
MIAMI, Nov 29, 2001 - Celebrity Cruises will add a new cruising region to its expanded array of itineraries next year. In 2002, the award-winning premium cruise line will present its first cruises in Canada and New England.
On May 27 and September 9, 2002, Celebrity's Galaxy will depart Baltimore, Maryland, on 11-night cruises through Canada and New England, with ports of call in Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Quebec City, Quebec; Portland, Maine, and cruising through the Saguenay River.
Among the highlights of these new Celebrity itineraries will be the soaring cliffs and rocky coastlines of Maine, the charming seaside towns and coves of Nova Scotia, the rich history and culture of Quebec, and the sheer beauty of Canada's Saguenay River.
Guests traveling on Celebrity's Galaxy also will experience the relaxed elegance, exceptional cuisine and attentive service that typifies the guest experience on every ship in the Celebrity fleet. With four days at sea built into these new itineraries, guests will have ample opportunity to enjoy every aspect of the inviting destination that is the Celebrity vessel itself.
Bookings are now open for Celebrity's new Canada and New England sailings, with fares beginning at $1,199 per person, double occupancy. Celebrity also sails in Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, and South America. To book a cruise, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site. Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Summit entered 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.
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NEW YORK, Nov 2001 - The Christmas/New Year's holiday season, traditionally a sellout period for cruises, is doing surprisingly well despite the overall decline in travel this Fall. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines are reporting bookings for the holiday season at or near last year's levels and many are predicting holiday sold-out status within a few days.
Contributing to the strong bookings is the attractive pricing of cruise vacations. Always a great value because of its inclusive nature, cruising has become even more appealing thanks to aggressive promotions launched by the cruise lines several weeks ago; in fact, many lines are offering ocean-view staterooms at about $100 per day per person.
"Americans appear to be resisting the urge to let anything dampen their holiday spirit," says James G. Godsman, president of CLIA, the marketing association representing 23 North American-based cruise lines. "CLIA member lines are indicating that since the events of September 11 they have received few cancellations from those who had booked early, while new bookings continue to come in from people seeking to spend quality time together in a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere."
"A cruise ship is the perfect venue to share this special time with family and friends," says Godsman. "Whether you're seeking to reconnect, share quality time or escape the everyday stress of today's world, a cruise ship can be the ideal location for a family celebration." Godsman pointed out that while cruises have long been renowned for excellent value, in addition to great service and satisfaction, this year the bargains abound as the industry does its part to get people traveling again.
Several cruise lines have also adjusted their itineraries to include more sailings from domestic ports during this holiday season, resulting in embarkations within easy driving distance. According to Godsman, "Whether you opt to celebrate close to home or seek a holiday with an international flare, the cruise lines go all out to help passengers create special memories." Ships are decked out in their holiday finery, complete with twinkling trees and even falling "snow."
While there is no shortage of things to do on a cruise ship any time of the year, holiday sailings offer activities with a festive twist, from caroling and special shows to holiday programs for the whole family. Even children's programs adapt to the season, with holiday-themed crafts, games and performances. And for young and old alike, there's sure to be a special visit by the man of the hour--Santa Claus.
Cruise ships are noted for their outstanding menus and at holiday time these, too, fit the season, complete with turkey, eggnog and all the trimmings prepared by some of the world's finest chefs and presented in incomparable style.
International sailings offer a unique holiday feel with a glimpse into different cultures and menus, as crew members perform local carols and share their own holiday traditions. Those seeking the spiritual side of the season will find many lines have members of the clergy on board to offer holiday services for various denominations.
And cruise ships go all out to celebrate the New Year, with celebrations featuring dancing and special musical guests.
"Whether you're ringing in the New Year at a black tie gala while crossing the Atlantic, welcoming Santa as he arrives by kayak, or feasting on a gourmet meal, marking the holidays on board a cruise ship can be a meaningful way to end one year and begin another," Godsman concludes.
For more information about holiday cruises, visit a CLIA-affiliated travel agent. To find one, visit the CLIA website at www.cruising.org and click on the Cruise Expert Locator, or look for the blue and white CLIA logo in your travel agent's window. Source: CLIA
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"WORLD'S BEST" FOOD AWARD GOES TO CRYSTAL CRUISES IN
TRAVEL + LEISURE'S 2001 READERS' POLL ON CRUISE LINES
Crystal Joins The World's Top Hotels, Spas and Dining Cities, and Outscores All Other Large and Small Ship Cruise Lines
LOS ANGELES, Nov 28, 2001 - Luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises joins the prestigious ranks of the Inn at Little Washington, Hôtel de Paris, and the city of New York, for the "World's Best Food" opportunities as selected by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in 2001. The cuisine of Crystal's floating resorts, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony, was awarded the highest score of all cruise lines, with either large or small ships.
According to the November 2001 issue, "The age of the dismal hotel restaurant is definitively over. Once avoided by all but the most desperate travelers, hotel restaurants today are destinations for both visitors and locals alike."
"It is extremely gratifying to be recognized for our fine dining," says Toni Neumeister, Crystal's director of culinary operations. "Like any great luxury resort or shoreside restaurant, Crystal Cruises goes to great lengths to offer its guests superior cuisine."
Creativity, innovation, choices, ambience and personal service are the principles behind the line's lauded approach to onboard dining. Top quality ingredients are key, as a range of fresh products, from berries to lobster, are flown to various ports in order to ensure the guests' satisfaction, wherever in the world they are cruising. From Crystal's main dining rooms to the Asian restaurants to its famed Italian restaurant, Prego, the line features such choices as parmesan-crusted halibut with French-Asian truffle sauce to Peking duck in Mandarin pancake with scallions, cucumbers and plum sauce to cotolette d' agnello arrosto all' aglio e erbe servite con pure di patate all' aglio e zucchine alla griglia (herb-crusted roasted rack of baby lamb, served with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled zucchini).
The unusually creative menus of The Crystal Dining Room, the ships' main
formal dining area, feature a variety of international specialties, special
dietary meals and, based on the cruise itinerary, a selection of
regionally-inspired dishes. Highlighting the dining room experience is tableside cooking of such classics like Caesar salad, châteaubriand, crêpes
suzette and custom-created pasta dishes. Guests will also find fresh fish,
including sea bass, lobster, and, of course, caviar. Wines and champagnes
from around the world comprise Crystal Cruises' comprehensive wine list, one of the most extensive at sea.
Crystal Cruises pioneered the concept of specialty restaurants at sea, at no additional cost, as an alternative to the Crystal Dining Rooms. Both vessels emphasize flexible dining opportunities with two additional intimate dinner specialty restaurants under the direction of different chefs, each with a unique décor and ambience: Kyoto and Prego on Crystal Harmony and Jade Garden and Prego on Crystal Symphony.
Attesting to the quality and dedication of the culinary team is Crystal Cruises' alliance with famed restaurateur Piero Selvaggio of Valentino in Santa Monica and Las Vegas. Earlier this year, Crystal Cruises launched "Valentino at Prego" menu, offering the restaurants' signature dishes prepared by Crystal's own Valentino-trained chefs, and paired with wine suggestions, available nightly in Prego.
For today's health-conscious travelers, cuisine aboard Crystal includes low-fat, low-salt, low sugar and low cholesterol "On The Lighter Side" selections, such as egg white omelettes, fresh basil pasta with sautéed east coast scallops and prawns in a roasted red pepper sauce, and an Alaskan cranberry tart. Crystal Cruises' elaborate menus also include a savory vegetarian entree. Other special dietary meals are available upon request.
In addition to the aforementioned Crystal Dining Rooms and evening specialty restaurants, the Lido Café and Lido Café and Gardens provide a casual dining alternative with indoor and outdoor seating and extensive breakfast and luncheon buffet service, while the Trident Bar & Grill offers light poolside fare, and is transformed to a more decorative alfresco dining venue for inspired casual dining on select nights. Crystal's signature Bistro is a European-inspired coffee and wine bar, and the elegant Palm Court is home to elaborate afternoon tea service. Special themed luncheon, evening and midnight buffets are also featured on each sailing, ranging from "Asia Café" to "Cuisines of the Sun." Every afternoon, the Ice Cream Bar serves a range of complimentary frozen treats. Crystal's complimentary 24-hour room service enables guests to dine in their staterooms or on their private verandahs.
The mark of any true luxury experience is service and quality appointments. Crystal's friendly and gracious European-trained staff is complemented by the line's attention to detail, as seen in its fine table-top appointments, including Schott-Zwiesel® and Riedel® crystal, Villeroy & Boch® and Wedgwood® china, Sambonet® and Elkington® silver, and Frette® linens.
Neumeister was the first cruise line representative ever to be invited to prepare dinner at the prestigious James Beard House in New York. The luxury line's numerous professional chefs are trained in classical French cooking, yet artfully blend the inspiration of regional cooking techniques and exotic ingredients found in the line's worldwide ports of call. "The Crystal Cruises Cookbook," a coffee-table style cookbook and acclaimed collection of recipes, was published in 1999.
The line boasts more professionally-trained chefs than any other cruise line as well as a low-turnover rate, which adds to the consistency and excellence of the product. Crystal's cadre of chefs also continues its education and training as a byproduct of the acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival, which brings aboard guest chefs and wine experts to share their culinary secrets and prepare special dinners and offer wine pairings, for all guests.
Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony provide the ideal environment from which to explore the world in contemporary comfort and style. The elegant 50,000-ton vessels feature private verandahs on more than half of their exquisitely-appointed staterooms. They also boast expansive decks, a wide variety of lounges for award-winning entertainment and innovative onboard enrichment programs, including Computer with 24-hour e-mail and internet access, full-service fitness facility and salon and the only Caesars Palace at Sea casino.
In 2002, Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony will embark on 55 sailings, from eight to 100 days in length, to worldwide ports in Europe, South America, Alaska, the Orient, Panama Canal/Caribbean, Mexico and sail the "Grand Circle Pacific" World Cruise round-trip from Los Angeles. The line is constructing a third ship, Crystal Serenity, scheduled for delivery in summer 2003. Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a free brochure, please call 800.820.6663. More information is available on Crystal Cruises' web site at www.crystalcruises.com.
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CELEBRITY CRUISES PRESENTS EXTENDED CARIBBEAN GETAWAYS
MIAMI, Nov 27, 2001 - Celebrity Cruises has expanded its series of Caribbean cruises, with new itineraries on Millennium and Galaxy departing on alternating Mondays and Fridays, allowing vacationers to indulge in captivating Caribbean vacations of up to 11 nights.
Millennium will continue her seven-night eastern Caribbean cruises currently departing Fort Lauderdale on Sundays, then will remain in Fort Lauderdale to embark on 10- and 11-night "Ultimate Caribbean" itineraries from mid-April through September 2002, replacing the 12-night Mediterranean cruises previously scheduled to sail between Barcelona and Istanbul next summer.
Ports of call on Millennium's new 10-night sailings include St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Kitts and St. Thomas. The 11-night itinerary includes visits to Key West, Cozumel, Costa Rica, Panama, Cartagena, Aruba and Grand Cayman. Fares begin at $999 per person, double occupancy.
Celebrity also will continue the 10- and 11-night Caribbean itineraries currently offered on the line's newest ship, Summit, and will launch a unique new series of 10- and 11-night southern Caribbean cruises from Baltimore on Galaxy beginning in March 2002.
"Celebrity's lengthier cruises are perfect for everyone from the 'Caribbean connoisseur' to the first-time cruise vacationer who wants more time to relax and unwind in the tropics," said Celebrity Cruises Senior Vice President of Marketing and Brand Planning, Ares Michaelides. "Each itinerary offers opportunities to explore a number of exotic ports throughout the Caribbean."
Celebrity Cruises is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the industry, with the youngest fleet of any major cruise line. Summit entered 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.
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HOLIDAY TO OFFER 10- AND 11-DAY VOYAGES FROM NEW ORLEANS
MIAMI (11/27/01) - Carnival Cruise Lines will offer one-of-a-kind 10- and 11-day voyages from New Orleans aboard the 1,452-passenger Holiday in spring 2002.
"We're always looking for new itineraries for our guests and these two new sailings offer a diversity of popular Caribbean and Mexican ports and exotic destinations such as Belize," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "Now more than ever, with consumers placing such a strong emphasis on value, these new 'Fun Ship' sailings provide a convenient, affordable, all-inclusive vacation option from the Big Easy," he added. Dickinson noted that the Holiday's new 10- and 11-day cruises can be combined with a pre- or post-cruise land stay in New Orleans to create two-week land/sea packages.
Following these voyages, the Holiday will launch a previously announced four- and five-day cruise program from New Orleans April 27, 2002, joining Carnival's 2,052-passenger Inspiration which currently operates week-long Caribbean cruises from that port.
10- and 11-Day Sailings from New Orleans
Following a series of two- to six-day departures from Mobile, Alabama, in March 2002, the Holiday will operate two special sailings from New Orleans - a 10-day voyage departing April 17, and an 11-day cruise departing April 6, 2002 - the only sailings of its kind from that port. The 10-day voyage will call at Progreso/Merida and Costa Maya, Mexico; Belize; Cozumel, Mexico; and Georgetown, Grand Cayman, while 11-day voyages will call at Isla Roatan; Grand Cayman; Belize; Costa Maya and Cozumel. Rates for the 10- and 11-day cruises begin at $599 and $649 per person, respectively.
If booked through Carnival's "Fun Finance Plan (SM)," which enables consumers to purchase a "Fun Ship" cruise vacation via fixed monthly payments over 24 months at the lowest annual percentage rate available, 10- and 11-day cruises are available from $28 and $30 per month, respectively. Actual monthly payment and terms may vary according to the applicant's credit qualifications. Valid for U.S. individual bookings only. Certain other restrictions apply.
Variety of Dining, Activity, Entertainment Options
The SuperLiner Holiday houses eight passenger decks featuring 10 bars and lounges, three swimming pools, one with a 115-foot-long water slide, a Nautica Spa health and fitness facility, and a children's playroom, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" children's program. 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, the Holiday also features two main dining rooms, a casual poolside eatery featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives and 24-hour pizzeria and ice cream/frozen yogurt. Complimentary 24-hour stateroom service is also available.
Carnival is currently accepting reservations on all of the Holiday's departures from Mobile and New Orleans. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available. Round-trip air transportation from a variety of North American gateways can be purchased in combination with all New Orleans departures. For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups). Information and reservations can also be obtained online at www.carnival.com.
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Carnival Adds Five More Mobile Departures in March 2002
MIAMI, Nov 27 - Following tremendous response to its first "Fun Ship" departures from Mobile, Ala., announced earlier this month, Carnival Cruise Lines has added five more sailings from that port aboard the 1,452-passenger Holiday in March 2002.
"While we anticipated a strong reaction to our first-ever 'Fun Ship' departures from Mobile, the pace of reservations has exceeded even our wildest expectations, with the five- and six-day voyages completely sold out and the two-day cruise selling very rapidly," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "We're delighted to offer these additional sailings from Mobile, which provide an affordable, convenient, 'close-to-home' vacation option for residents of the southeastern U.S.," he added. Dickinson noted that the efforts of travel agents in Alabama and the surrounding areas played a key role in the program's success.
"We are thrilled with the level of interest in cruising from Mobile," said Brenda J. Scott, CEO/President Mobile Convention and Visitors Corporation. "After the initial announcement of 'trial' cruising from Mobile, Carnival and local travel agencies experienced a deluge of bookings for the three cruises in March. We are pleased that Mobilians and others are taking advantage of this exciting opportunity to travel," she added. Mobile has long been known as a Port City. From shipbuilding, maintenance, as a harbor, museum location and now as a cruising port. "Mobile is proud to be associated with Carnival Cruise Lines and welcomes the opportunity for others to come to the Port City," said Mayor Mike Dow.
The new sailings from Mobile consist of two two-day cruises-to-nowhere departing March 15 and 23, a five-day western Caribbean voyage departing March 31, and two six-day "exotic" western Caribbean sailing departing March 17 and 25, 2002. Ports of call on the five-day voyage include Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, Mexico, while six-day voyages will visit Playa del Carmen; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel. These sailings are in addition to a previously announced series of two- to six-day voyages from Mobile operating March 2-15, 2002.
Guests sailing from Mobile will enjoy the Holiday's wide variety of "resort-style" amenities and facilities, including 10 bars and lounges, three swimming pools, one with a 115-foot-long water slide, a full gambling casino, a health and fitness facility, and a children's play room, part of the line's top-rated "Camp Carnival" program. The Holiday also features two full-service dining rooms, complimentary 24- hour room service, and a poolside eatery offering breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives and a 24-hour pizzeria, all 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.
Carnival is currently accepting reservations for the Holiday's new Mobile departures. Prices for the two-day cruises-to-nowhere begin at $199 per person, the five-day at $349 per person, and the six-day Caribbean voyage at $399 per person, based on double occupancy. If booked via Carnival "Fun Finance Plan (SM)," which allows consumers to purchase a "Fun Ship" cruise via fixed payments over a 24-month period at the lowest annual percentage rate available, the two-day cruises are available starting at $10 per month, the five-day cruise $17 per month and the six-day voyages at $19 per month. Actual monthly payment and terms may vary according to the applicant's credit qualifications. Valid for U.S. individual bookings only. Certain other restrictions apply. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com
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Royal Olympic Cruises Announces its Delivery of the Olympia Explorer
PIRAEUS, Greece, Nov 26 - Royal Olympic Cruise Lines Inc. announced today that the, Olympia Explorer, sister ship to Royal Olympic's Olympia Voyager is expected to reach the port of Piraeus early 2002, which will enable her to perform her exciting new itineraries from Venice to Piraeus, Istanbul and the Greek Islands next summer, with Piraeus as an alternative port of embarkation.
Royal Olympic Cruises delegates and representatives from Blohm+Voss Shipyard in Hamburg had a very constructive meeting in Piraeus regarding the delivery of the Olympia Explorer, which was due for delivery in April 2001. With her 28 knots cruising speed, the Olympia Explorer is the only ship, other than her sister ship, Olympia Voyager, able to perform this itinerary allowing customers the unique experience of visiting eight culturally different ports in just seven days.
Royal Olympic Cruises is the largest cruise operator in the Eastern Mediterranean, owning and operating a fleet of nine overnight cruise ships. This release and other financial information can be viewed on the Company's investor website at www.roclf.com Some statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking statements. This press release is for information only and should not be considered investment advice.
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CARNIVAL LEGEND'S INAUGURAL 2002 SEASON TO INCLUDE BERMUDA, CANADA & CARIBBEAN SAILINGS, 2- & 3-DAY CRUISES-TO-NOWHERE
MIAMI (11/26/01) - For the inaugural 2002 season of the new 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend, Carnival Cruise Lines has assembled a diverse schedule encompassing two- to 11-day voyages from several U.S. homeports, including the line's first departures from Philadelphia and Baltimore. These voyages follow the Carnival Legend's previously announced 12-day Northern Europe and 15-day transatlantic voyages in summer 2002 - the line's first "Fun Ship" sailings from Europe.
The Carnival Legend's inaugural U.S. cruise schedule includes:
* 2- & 3-day cruises-to-nowhere and 11-day Canada sailings from New York City in September and October 2002
* 6-day Bermuda voyages from Philadelphia & Baltimore in October 2002.
* A 2-day cruise-to-nowhere and year-round 8-day "exotic" Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning in November 2002
"Carnival Legend promises to be a stunning ship and we've created some equally spectacular itineraries," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president. "From charming Bermuda and breathtaking Canadian and Caribbean destinations to value-packed two-day cruises-to-nowhere, Carnival Legend's inaugural season offers something to suit any mood, taste or budget," he added. Dickinson noted that these itineraries also continue the line's strategy of deploying ships near large U.S. population bases, providing easy and convenient access to "Fun Ship" departures to thousands of consumers.
Cruises-to-Nowhere, Canada/New England "Fall Foliage" Voyages from New York City:
Carnival Legend will operate a pair of two-day cruises-to-nowhere, a three-day cruise-to-nowhere and two 11-day Canada/New England "fall foliage" sailings from New York in September and October 2002. Two-day cruises will depart New York Oct. 17 and 19, and the three-day cruise Oct. 3, 2002. Eleven-day Canada/New England sailings will depart Sept. 22 and Oct. 6, 2002. Ports on these voyages will include Boston; Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine; Quebec City, Quebec (optional shore excursion to Montreal available); and Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Prices for the two- and three-day cruises-to-nowhere from New York begin at $299 and $399 per person, respectively (price includes gratuities), while 11-day Canada cruises are available starting at $1,299 per person.
Six-Day Bermuda Cruises from Philadelphia and Baltimore:
Carnival Legend's inaugural schedule will also include two six-day Bermuda cruises in October 2002 - one departing Philadelphia Oct. 23 and another departing Baltimore Oct. 30. Both voyages will dock at Bermuda's King's Wharf. Prices for the six-day Bermuda sailings begin at $699 per person.
Two-Day Cruise-to-Nowhere, Eight-Day Exotic Program from Miami:
From Miami, Carnival Legend will operate a two-day cruise-to-nowhere Nov. 8, then launch year-round eight-day "exotic" southern and western Caribbean cruises Nov. 10, 2002, featuring ports typically available only on 10-day or longer voyages. Eight-day southern Caribbean cruises will visit St. Maarten, Barbados and Martinique, while eight-day western Caribbean voyages include stops at Belize City, Belize; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama (optional Panama Canal and Gatun Lake excursions available). The two-day cruise-to-nowhere from Miami is available starting at $349 per person (price includes gratuities), while eight-day "exotic" Caribbean departures begin at $679 per person.
Myriad Dining and Entertainment Options, Dramatic 'Legendary' Interiors:
The Carnival Legend, the third in the line's highly successful "Spirit-class" series, will offer a wide variety of dining options and entertainment venues, with interiors inspired by some of the world's most famous legends and historical figures.
The ship will feature 16 bars, lounges and nightspots, a duty-free shopping mall, a 13,700-square-foot health spa, an Internet cafe, an expansive casino, a 2,400 square-foot children's play area, four swimming pools and a cascading water slide. Dining options will include a two-level formal restaurant, a "steakhouse-style" supper club serving aged beef and other upscale cuisine, and a casual poolside eatery featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner alternatives, Asian and American specialty areas and 24-hour pizza and ice cream/frozen yogurt. A patisserie and complimentary 24-hour stateroom service are also available. All of these options comprise Carnival's Total Choice Dining(SM), cruising's most comprehensive dining program offering the widest variety of formal and casual options at sea. Additionally, 80 percent of the ship's 1,062 staterooms will feature a sitting area and ocean view, with 80 percent of those offering private verandahs. Several levels of deluxe accommodations will be featured, as well.
Pricing and Reservations:
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Legend's various 2002 departures. All Carnival Legend sailings are available through Carnival's "Fun Finance Plan(SM)," which allows consumers to purchase a "Fun Ship" vacation via fixed monthly payments over a 24-month period at the lowest annual percentage rate available. Sample prices range from $14 per month for the two-day cruises-to-nowhere to $61 per month for the 11-day Canada voyages. Actual monthly payment and terms may vary according to the applicant's credit qualifications. Valid for U.S. individual bookings only. Certain other restrictions apply.
Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available. Round-trip air transportation from a variety of North American gateways can be purchased in conjunction with the Carnival Legend's eight- and 11-day departures. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.
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From NCL, Buy One Cruise, Get a Different Cruise FREE!
2-for-1 or Better Sale
Buy a 12-Day Summer Europe Sailing
on Norwegian Dream & receive a
FREE** 14-Day South America Voyage!
Buy a Summer Bermuda Sailing on
Norwegian Majesty & receive a
FREE** Southern Caribbean Voyage!
Buy a Summer round-trip NY or Canada/New England sailing on
Norwegian Sea & receive a
FREE** 3- or 4-Day Voyage!
Buy a Summer Alaska Sailing on
Norwegian Sky & receive a
FREE** Eastern or Western Caribbean Voyage!
Buy a Spring or Fall Hawaii Sailing on
Norwegian Wind & receive a
FREE** Summer Alaska Voyage!
| Ship: |
Priced Cruises:
|
FREE** Cruises:
|
| Dream |
Europe
|
4/17, 5/13 - 8/29/02
|
South America
|
1/6 - 3/3/02
|
| Majesty |
Bermuda
|
4/28 - 10/20/02
|
Southern Caribbean
|
1/6 - 3/31/02
|
| Sea |
Round-trip New York
|
4/28 - 8/25/02
|
3-Day Caribbean
|
1/4 - 4/12/02
|
|
Canada/New England
|
9/1 - 10/13/02
|
4-Day Caribbean
|
1/7 - 4/8/02
|
| Sky |
Alaska
|
4/28 - 9/22/02
|
Caribbean
|
1/5 - 3/30/02 (Excluding 3/16/02)
|
| Wind |
Hawaii
|
3/17, 3/29, 4/8, 4/18 & 9/16 - 12/9/02
|
Alaska
|
4/29 - 9/9/02
|
*Offer is valid to new bookings made between 11/21/01 and 12/31/01 only. Priced cruise is at a special fare (brochure fare or less) and must be booked under program code PG-FR1. FREE** cruise is at a zero fare and must be booked under program code PG-FR2. Both cruises must be booked at the same time, in the same cabin category and vessel. A lower category may be chosen for the FREE** cruise if the same category is not available at time of booking. A special non-refundable deposit is required for priced cruise. Non-refundable deposit represents up to 50% of fare and is due within NCLs standard option period. Payment schedule for priced cruise is that of NCLs standard policy. Cancellation period for priced cruise, excluding the non-refundable deposit , is that of NCLs standard policy. Cancellation of priced cruise automatically cancels FREE** cruise. Cancellation of FREE** cruise does not entitle guest to any refund and/or compensation. Name changes and changes to sail date on FREE** cruise must be made not later than 30 days prior to sailing. Promotion is for FIT bookings only. Bookings cannot be brought into a group, but do count towards TCs. Rates include NCF. Government taxes/fees and gratuities are additional. This promotion is capacity controlled and subject to availability. All rates are subject to availability. FREE**cruise may be redeemed by an immediate family member (parent, child, spouse, grandparent or sibling) and documentation will be required for different last names. Cruise reservations are non-transferable. Travel insurance is not available for this special offer. However, medical insurance may be purchased directly from Berkley Care at 1-800-722-5672. Offer is applicable to first and second guests only. Singles paying 200% of fare are entitled to promotion. Third and fourth guests pay prevailing rates. Offer is combinable with LSF air. Bus transfers to voyages departing from Miami are also available at a nominal fee. All rates are in U.S. Dollars.
**Government taxes/fees and gratuities are additional along with above mentioned terms and conditions. Ships Registry: Bahamas. © 2001 Norwegian Cruise Line.
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Royal Caribbean International and Tom Joyner Morning Show Partner for Fantastic Voyage
MIAMI, Nov 26 - Royal Caribbean International's Explorer of the Seas will host the third annual Tom Joyner Foundation's Fantastic Voyage 2002 celebrity cruise and fundraiser. Known as "the ultimate party with a purpose," the Fantastic Voyage's proceeds will benefit the Tom Joyner Foundation, which provides scholarship funds to students at historically black colleges and universities (HBCU.) The two previous Fantastic Voyage cruises each have raised more than a million dollars for the Tom Joyner Foundation.
"Our Voyager-class ship is the ideal venue for such a fun and worthy cause," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Royal Caribbean International. "We also have a strong commitment to supporting the communities with which we do business."
Explorer of the Seas offers vacationers an ice-skating rink, a rock climbing wall 200 feet above sea level, an inline skating track, full-court basketball and interior staterooms with views of a shopping, dining and entertainment boulevard. Other exciting features include a Johnny Rockets restaurant; a 1350-seat theater; a golf course and golf simulator; more than 15,000 square feet of health and fitness facilities; and one of the largest casinos afloat. The vessel sails seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises from Miami year-round.
"Even though we're months away from our cruise date, I'm amazed at the number of people who have already reserved their cabins. I think in the wake of all that's going on in the world, people are looking for a chance to kick back and have a great time. There's nothing better than having big fun and raising money for a good cause at the same time," said Tom Joyner.
The partnership elements include an internship program to provide professional experience opportunities at Royal Caribbean for HBCU students, a one-night charity cruise in 2002 to benefit the Tom Joyner Foundation onboard Navigator of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's fourth Voyager-class ship, and sail- away fund-raiser promotions.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 15 ships in service and five under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, please visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com
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CRYSTAL CRUISES WILL CELEBRATE PASSOVER
Luxury Line Features Traditional Passover With A Guest Rabbi Conducting Services And A Four-Course Seder
LOS ANGELES - For its Jewish guests, Crystal Cruises is planning a traditional seder service and five-course dinner to celebrate Passover aboard its luxury ships. The service on March 28 includes a recitation of the Passover Haggadah, songs and a complete holiday meal. Conducted by highly qualified guest rabbis, the special events honor all of the historic elements of the holiday of freedom, and are presented with Crystal Cruises attention to detail and award-winning service. The service will be celebrated aboard Crystal Harmonys Passage To Paradise from Acapulco to Honolulu and Crystal Symphonys World Cruise voyage from Hong Kong to Los Angeles, calling in China, Japan and Hawaii.
Historically, more than 100 congregants participate in the luxury lines Passover celebration each year. According to past guest Rabbi Sinclair Rimmon, Guests particularly enjoy celebrating Passover aboard Crystal Cruises because they create a warm environment of friendship and extended family while remaining true to the holidays meaning. I feel fortunate to be able to share the purpose and message of Passover throughout the entire period, whether in personal sessions or Sabbath services held during the cruise.
In keeping with Passover tradition, there will be a seder plate blessed by the rabbi. Matzoh, charotsehs (chopped apples and walnuts with wine) will be served, and hard-boiled egg with salt water are among the symbolic foods that will be served.
The conventional four-course holiday meal served in Crystal Cruises Six-Star style will begin with gefilte fish accompanied by horseradish, followed by chicken soup with matzoh balls. Roasted chicken will be the featured entrée, complemented by carrot tzimmes, roasted artichokes, potato latkes and cranberry sauce. For dessert, guests may indulge in a rich honey nut raisin cake served with wine sabayon, fruit compote and coconut macaroons.
In addition to the March 28 dinner, kosher food selections are available throughout the entire Passover holiday including such delicacies as rack of veal, rib eye steak, lamb chops, and fresh salmon. Although Crystal Cruises does not have a separate kosher kitchen, the guest rabbis may supervise the food as it is prepared in the galley.
Also, in keeping with kosher standards for food service in the Crystal Dining Room, by request Crystal Cruises will sterilize plates, silverware and glassware upon guests arrival and utilize the same dishware throughout the cruise.
On Passover Eve, Rabbi Steven E. Foster, who holds a Doctor of Divinity from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, will conduct the ceremony aboard Crystal Harmony. The 10-day Pacific crossing from Acapulco to Honolulu begins on March 24.
Rabbi Morris M. Hershman, who served for 25 years as Director of the Northern California and Pacific Northwest Councils of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, will preside over the service aboard Crystal Symphony. The China and Japan sailing is the final segment of her seventh World Cruise, a 34-day voyage departing from Hong Kong on March 25 for Los Angeles.
The Passover sailings offer Friday night Sabbath services, including wines, challah, and prayer books according to the season. Both Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony have their own torah on board.
Crystal Cruises impeccable friendly service and luxurious attention to detail have been recognized with an unprecedented number of top industry awards. Most recently, for the sixth consecutive year, Crystal was named Worlds Best Large Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure magazine, and Best Large-Ship Cruise Line in the readers survey conducted by Condé Nast Traveler.
The Six-Star rated Crystal Harmony and Crystal Symphony are luxurious 940-guest, 50,000-ton vessels featuring expansive decks, award-winning entertainment in a wide variety of spacious lounges, flexible gourmet dining with two alternative restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, lavish spa, Caesars Palace at Sea casino, and exquisitely-appointed staterooms and penthouses, more than half of which offer private verandahs.
Crystal Cruises is booked exclusively through professional travel agents. For a complimentary Crystal Cruises brochure please call 800.820.6663. Visit Crystal Cruises web site at www.crystalcruises.com.
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Disney Cruise Line Celebrates Magical Holidays
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL - Disney Cruise Line guests can enjoy a festive holiday celebration sprinkled with pixie dust on sailings between Nov. 24 and Jan. 1. It all starts at Disney's private cruise terminal at Port Canaveral, FL, where festive holiday décor and Disney characters dressed in their season's best await all who board a Magical Holidays sailing. On board the Disney Magic or Disney Wonder, guests find the ships decked with boughs of holly and filled with holiday-themed entertainment and activities for the entire family.
Magical Holidays highlights include:
* A nearly three-deck-tall tree-lighting ceremony in the atrium lobby, where "snow" magically falls
* A Christmas Eve visit from Santa Goofy, with surprises for kids enrolled in children's programming
* International holiday caroling by crew members from around the globe
* Special family time, when families join together to design and decorate their own gingerbread houses
* Classic Disney storytime with Mrs. Santa Claus
* Traditional holiday feasts in Disney's three themed dining rooms
* Presentations of Monsters, Inc., one of this holiday season's most popular films
* Multiple faith and non-denominational holiday services
* A ship-wide party to ring in 2002 and a New Year's Day tailgate party at ESPN Skybox
Rates for Magical Holiday sailings start at $439 (three-night), $539 (four-night) and $829 (seven-night). In addition to the new alternating seven-night Caribbean cruise vacation aboard the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder offers one-of-a-kind land and sea vacations that combine the fun and excitement of the year-long Walt Disney World 100 Years of Magic celebration with the enchantment of a Disney Cruise Line voyage to the Bahamas.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a Disney Cruise Line vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500.
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Disney Cruise Line Shares Holiday Magic With Communities Where Cast And Crew Live, Work And Play
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL - Throughout December, Disney Cruise Line shares holiday magic with its friends in the communities where the cast and crew of the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder live, work and play.
"Disney Cruise Line is proud to support many organizations that nurture the lives of children," said Disney Cruise Line Community Relations manager Kim Piercy.
Built on the Disney Cruise Line tradition of spreading magic to children in the popular ports-of-call that Disney cruise ships visit, the line plans to celebrate the holidays this year in Florida, the Bahamas and the eastern Caribbean.
Activities include:
Visits by Mickey Mouse and his pals, who not only bring hugs and smiles to the holiday celebrations of schoolchildren and children's organizations, but toys, books, videos and school supplies as well.
Participation in Patrick Air Force Base's tree-lighting ceremony, where shoreside cast members join Mickey and pals to celebrate the holidays with children of locally deployed troops.
Fundraising drives established by each ship that benefit local agencies identified by the ships' crew members and matched dollar-for-dollar by Disney Cruise Line.
The "adoption" of Central Florida families by shoreside cast members who are determined to turn these families' "wish lists" into dreams come true.
Disney Cruise Line offers alternating seven-night Caribbean cruise vacations aboard the Disney Magic and one-of-a-kind land/sea vacations that combine the fun and excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort with the enchantment of a Disney Cruise Line voyage to the Bahamas.
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Silversea Cruises Launches 'Reassurance Program' Which Provides Peace of Mind and Freedom to Change Plans
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL, Nov 20 - Ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea Cruises today launched its "Reassurance Program," an innovative cancellation program designed to provide travelers with peace of mind and freedom to change their travel plans at the last minute for any reason without being penalized.
Guests who choose to cancel their Silversea cruise for any reason 1 to 14 days prior to departure will receive a 100 percent Reassurance Cruise Credit on a future cruise valid for 12 months from the date of issue. The optional "Reassurance Program" is available for new bookings made through March 31, 2002 for any voyage commencing on or after April 1, 2002. Guests with existing bookings on voyages commencing on or after April 1, 2002 may add the "Reassurance Program," but must do so by December 31, 2001.
Travel professionals will earn commission on the program, plus retain their full cruise commission if their client chooses to cancel for any reason. The "Reassurance Program" is available for $250 per person when purchased with Silversea's GuestCare® optional travel insurance, or $500 per guest when purchased alone.
"We recently surveyed our Venetian Society (past guests) and discovered that they want to keep their travel plans. The anxiety they may be feeling isn't necessarily in the travel, but in the potential loss of their money if they chose to cancel due to unforeseen world events," said Bill Leiber, CTC, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Americas, for Silversea. "A Silversea cruise is a significant investment, and this program is designed to protect that investment and provide peace of mind at the same time. The Reassurance Program, coupled with our sixth consecutive World's Best award from Conde Nast Traveler, provides a nice one-two punch for agents to pro-actively sell Silversea with confidence."
The "Reassurance Program" is separate from Silversea's GuestCare® optional insurance program, which covers trip cancellation and interruption, trip delay, accident and sickness medical expenses and emergency evacuation, baggage and personal effects, baggage delay, and traveler's assistance.
Known for its destination-driven itineraries, Silversea's 2002 program includes cruises to South America, the South Pacific and Far East, Africa and the Indian Ocean, Caribbean and Panama Canal, and the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
Silversea's all-inclusive air/sea fares are by far the most comprehensive in the industry making travel near effortless by including roundtrip air transportation, a deluxe pre-cruise hotel stay and all transfers and porterage, expertly arranged by the line's professional travel staff. Aboard its award-winning vessels, Silversea's all-inclusive philosophy makes guests feel "at home" by conveniently including all wine, spirits and champagne throughout the ship, all gratuities, all port charges and a special shoreside excursion, The Silversea Experience, on select voyages. For more information, please contact your travel professional.
For a complimentary brochure please call (800) 774-9996 or view worldwide itineraries, take a virtual tour of the ship, and plan a cruise online at http://www.silversea.com
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STAR PRINCESS TO OFFER SPECIAL SPRING COASTAL VOYAGE
Floating Resort Features New California Ports of Call
The newest "star" to hit Hollywood, Star Princess, will offer a unique Pacific Coast sailing this spring as she transitions between her Mexican Riviera and Alaska seasons.
The seven-day Los Angeles to Vancouver cruise departs May 4, 2002 and features stops at San Diego, Santa Barbara, Monterey, San Francisco and Seattle. Following the voyage, Star Princess, a sister ship to the line's famed Grand Princess, will begin her first season of popular Gulf of Alaska cruises between Vancouver and Seward.
"This one-of-a-kind itinerary provides West Coast residents with the ultimate get-away vacation, without leaving their own backyard," said Dean Brown, Princess' executive vice president of customer service and sales. "And as host, Star Princess offers her guests more award-winning services, amenities, cuisine and entertainment than can be found at any one resort."
This special coastal sailing is a perfect opportunity for passengers to become acquainted with the Personal Choice Cruising options found aboard the 2,600-passenger Star Princess, which enables them to customize their cruise experience with a myriad of dining, entertainment and activity alternatives. Guests will have the freedom to do "what you want, when you want" with nine daily dining choices and three major stage shows each evening. In addition, many passengers will appreciate the special privacy afforded by the ship's 710 balcony cabins.
Star Princess features many of the same popular innovations that made headlines when her sister Grand Princess debuted, among them a wedding chapel and wedding-at-sea program, two specialty restaurants and three separate show lounges. In addition, the ship also offers both traditional and restaurant-style dining options as part of the line's unique Personal Choice Dining program. The vessel also sports a signature disco/observation lounge set high atop the ship and accessible only by a glass-enclosed, moving "skywalk," as well as a 24-hour AOL Internet Café, a nine-hole putting green, a swim-against-the-current lap pool and an expanded children's and teen's center.
Fares for this one-time-only itinerary begin at $939 per person based on double occupancy. Third- and fourth-berth fares begin at $199. More information on Princess Cruises and this special voyage is available through a professional travel agent. Brochures are available by calling 1-800-PRINCESS.
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Unless otherwise noted, all news items are sourced by individual cruise lines, cruise-related industries, and their agents.
