Cruise News
November 1-30, 2006
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Norwegian Pearl -- Simply Irresistible, the Dazzling New Vessel Features First Ever Bowling Alley at Sea & a Rock Climbing Wall
MIAMI, Nov. 29, 2006 -- NCL Corporation (NCL) took delivery of its latest treasure, Norwegian Pearl, from Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, yesterday. The new 93,530-ton Freestyle Cruising vessel is the latest in a string of innovative Jewel class ships. Norwegian Pearl boasts an industry first--a four-lane ten-pin bowling alley; and two NCL firsts--a rock-climbing wall and two top-of-the-ship Deluxe Owner's Suites.
"As we get ready to celebrate 40 years of cruising innovation, it is only fitting that we welcome Norwegian Pearl, a crowning achievement, to our big, modern fleet," said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation. "With the industry's first bowling alley and a host of other striking features, Norwegian Pearl epitomizes NCL's continued commitment to innovation."
Just like her sisters -Norwegian Star, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Jewel and Pride of Hawai`i, Norwegian Pearl will accommodate 2,400 guests, and features all the elements of NCL's dynamic modern Freestyle Cruising fleet including multiple restaurants, lively public rooms, versatile, family-friendly accommodations and NCL's sizzling new style of accommodations--Courtyard Villas, which along with each ship's two Garden Villas make up the biggest, most luxurious and innovative suite complexes at sea.
After a series of inaugural events in Europe and Miami, the ship will sail two seven-day itineraries to the Caribbean (Eastern and Western) beginning Dec. 22, 2006. On January 5, 2007, Norwegian Pearl begins its innovative five and nine-day Western and Southern Caribbean schedule. Ports of call on the five-day Western Caribbean itinerary include stops in Cozumel, Mexico and Belize City, Belize. The nine-day Southern Caribbean route includes calls in Roseau, Dominica; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; St. John's, Antigua and Tortola, British Virgin Islands. The ship then repositions to Seattle, where she sails a seven-day Alaska Inside Passage itinerary with calls in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska; Glacier Bay; and Victoria, British Columbia. In the fall of 2007 through the spring of 2008, Norwegian Pearl resumes her alternating five and nine-day Western and Southern Caribbean sailings with a change in itineraries: on the five-day, Georgetown, Grand Cayman replaces Belize City, Belize; and on the nine-day, Samana, Dominican Republic replaces Roseau, Dominica.
Simply Striking
Norwegian Pearl features the industry's first bowling alley. The four lane, ten-pin bowling alley is part of an all new, all-day entertainment, sports bar and nightclub complex called Bliss Ultra Lounge and Night Club. During the day, Bliss is a sports bar with a bowling alley, multiple flat screen televisions to show sports events, and air hockey, foosball and other arcade games. In the evening, in a complete change of mood, Bliss transforms into a hip, high-energy ultra-lounge, with the plasma screens adding video tracks to the non-stop music spun by Norwegian Pearl's own vibe master. A spacious dance floor, a full-bar and mood-lit bowling all add to the atmosphere of a totally unique seagoing experience.
Norwegian Pearl also features another first for the NCL fleet, a rock climbing wall. Constructed at the back of the ship's funnel on deck 14, the wall stands at an impressive 30 feet in height and 19 feet in width and has been designed with five different climbing routes, each with varying degrees of difficulty. The wall's reddish-brown sandstone color is reminiscent of the Ayer's Rock in Australia.
Like her sisters, Norwegian Pearl features 10 restaurants including guest favorites such as Cagney's Steak House, Blue Lagoon and NCL's signature restaurant, Le Bistro. In addition, Norwegian Pearl also features:
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Summer Palace - Located on deck 6; inspired by the grandeur of the palaces of St. Petersburg and the era of Russian Tsars. White and gold ceilings, green marbled pillars and 24 carat gold-coated chandeliers adorn this very detailed dining room;
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Indigo - Located on deck 6; a contemporary restaurant inspired by a modern boutique hotel clean lines and color combinations of blues and shots of orange as an accent. Features pop art backlit in glass;
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Lotus Garden - Located on deck 7; a modern Asian restaurant touting the graphically illustrated traditional female costume and dance of the Far East. Tibetan flags fuller along the railing next to the traditionally carved entrance; accommodates 108. The restaurant features popular Asian dishes, a sushi bar and a Teppanyaki area;
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Mambo's Latin/Tapas Restaurant - Located on deck 8; contemporary and bright, featuring hot and spicy Latin and tapas selections;
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La Cucina Italian Restaurant - Located on deck 12; casual Italian eatery reflecting a village trattoria or traditional farmhouse kitchen;
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The Garden Cafe - Located on deck 12; indoor buffet featuring prepared-to-cook omelets, waffles fruit, soups, ethnic specialties and pasta; accommodates 390. Includes a special "kids only" area with smaller tables and chairs;
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The Great Outdoors - Located on deck 12; an outdoor eatery with alfresco dinning.
In addition to her dining offerings, Norwegian Pearl features NCL's innovative Freestyle Dining information system. This allows guests to view all restaurants on board and make reservations for the entire cruise or just a specific night and restaurant. Plasma screens placed in high-traffic areas around the ship and outside each restaurant illustrate the status of each restaurant. Indicator bars reflect when each restaurant is "full," "moderately busy" or "empty." If a restaurant is full at a specific time, the screens also indicate to guests an estimated wait time in that restaurant and what table sizes are available. If a restaurant is full and guests would like to wait for an opening, they are quoted a wait time and issued a pager that works all over the ship. This gives guests an opportunity to sit down in one of the 13 bars and lounges on board, enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail, and listen to one of the ship's many entertainers until their table is ready.
Guests can relax at one of Norwegian Pearl's bars and lounges, including the Bar Central area, NCL's popular new entertainment concept first introduced on Norwegian Jewel. Bar Central features a martini bar, a champagne and wine bar, a beer and whiskey bar and a cigar bar all connected but touting distinct personalities:
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Shakers Martini and Cocktail Bar, art deco inspired with a large screen behind the bar depicting James Bond inspired graphic silhouettes of funky images from 60's and 70's;
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Magnum's Champagne and Wine Bar, French art deco inspired with elements reflecting grand old cruise liner The Normandy. It features art work that reflects Paris in the 1920's. The back bar has a bubbling, backlit water feature to look like champagne;
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Maltings Beer and Whiskey Bar, contemporary bar-lounge with low seating and tables along with mood lighting that complements the backlit artwork, themed around famous whiskeys of the world;
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Corona Cigar Club, an art deco cigar club with hand-rolled, premium cigars, cognacs and spirits.
Simply Flawless
Norwegian Pearl offers an extensive choice of cabins including some of the most luxurious accommodations afloat. Guests have the opportunity to cruise in style in one of the impressive Garden Villas, each spanning approximately 4,400 square feet. These extravagant Garden Villas offer a spacious living room, dining room and three separate bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. Garden Villa guests also enjoy their own private sun beds, hot tub and steam room in their private garden, plus butler and concierge service.
A new category of stateroom accommodations to NCL with the introduction of Norwegian Jewel and also featured on Pride of Hawai`i and Norwegian Pearl is the Courtyard Villa suite complex. Each villa shares a private courtyard, complete with swim-against-the-current lap pool, hot tub, male and female steam rooms and a small fitness area. These 10 villas also share a private sundeck with sun beds and hammocks. Positioned high atop the vessel, the villas tout sweeping views of the ocean and an impressive assortment of amenities typically found at five-star land-based resorts. Together with the Garden Villas, the Courtyard Villas comprise the most luxurious suite complex at sea.
High above everything else are two Deluxe Owner's Suites - the Black Pearl and the Golden Pearl - each measuring over 535 sq. ft. with commanding views of the ship and the surrounding ocean and scenery. These suites offer a master bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and dining/living area, together with an ample balcony accessible through the master bedroom.
Also on board are NCL' s latest amenities in standard staterooms including rich cherry wood finishing, hair dryers, safes, mini-bars, tea and coffee makers in every room, a larger bathroom unit than many other ships, containing separate WC, shower and washstand compartments separated by sliding doors in the outside, balcony and suite staterooms. For families of all sizes, Norwegian Pearl offers a large number of cabins (including suites and mini-suites) that can interconnect to create a two, three, four or five bedroom area.
Norwegian Pearl offers the latest in relaxation and fitness at the contemporary and tranquil South Pacific Spa and Beauty Salon. The full-service spa features 20 treatment rooms, three of which are specifically designed for couples. It also includes a Thalassotherapy Pool, a new NCL luxury exhibited for the first time on an NCL ship. It combines the restorative properties of saltwater and heat with invigorating jet massage technology to create the ultimate relaxation experience. Hawai`i-based Mandara Spa, the world's leading operator of landside resort spas, operates the facility, pampering guests with an exotic menu of spa and beauty treatments combining the best of East and West. Body Waves Fitness Center boasts state-of-the-art cardiovascular workout equipment - each with its own flat-screen TV -- aerobic and yoga area with a sprung wooden floor, steam and sauna rooms and a whirlpool and hydrotherapy pool.
The ship also features Trade Routes Boutiques, located on deck 7 and offering a wide selection of brand name watches, jewelry, accessories and souvenirs. The Sports Deck contains a basketball, volleyball and paddle tennis court with stadium seating, two life-sized chess pieces and board, two golf driving nets, deck games, jogging track and shuffleboard. Norwegian Pearl also offers a new, advanced Internet Café and Photo Gallery with kiosks to print photos from digital cameras as well as the latest laptops, which guests can rent to use around the ship. Guests can also take advantage of NCL' s signature WiFi capabilities available in all suites and throughout public areas of the ship.
At the state-of-the-art Pearl Club Casino on deck 6, guests can try their luck at games like Blackjack, Roulette, 3-Card Poker, Texas Hold 'em, and Craps. For slot lovers, Norwegian Pearl has more than 200 of the newest video and traditional slot machines ranging from $.01 to $100. Selected slot machines have a guaranteed 95 percent payback, as certified by Strictly Slots Magazine. The ship also features less traditional games including Pai-Gow Poker, Pai-Gow Tiles and even a Mini Baccarat table; guests simply request these games from a casino attendant.
This family-centric ship features the Aqua Kids Club decorated with a cute and friendly tropical sea creature theme, complete with a cinema, nursery and sleep/rest area; computer area and arts and crafts area. The ship also features the graffiti/New York-inspired Metro Center Teen's Club.
NCL plans to build up to three new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery between 2009 and 2011. NCL is on target to have the youngest fleet in the industry by 2010, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea. For further information, contact a travel agent or NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 327-7030.
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Carnival Freedom to Return to Europe in 2008 With Mediterranean
& Greek Isles Cruises
MIAMI, Nov 29, 2006) Following strong initial response to Carnival Freedoms inaugural Mediterranean/Greek Isles cruise program set to begin this spring, Carnival Cruise Lines has announced that the 110,000-ton SuperLiner will return to Europe for another season of 12-day voyages in 2008. Carnival Freedoms 2008 European cruise season will encompass 12-day Grand Mediterranean and 12-day Mediterranean & Greek Isles cruises operating May 10 to Oct. 25. Currently nearing the final stages of construction at Italys Fincantieri shipyard, the 2,974-passenger vessel is slated to debut in Europe March 5, 2007.
Consumers are realizing that cruising is the most convenient and affordable way to experience Europe, providing the opportunity to visit a variety of magnificent destinations, all in a single voyage. And Carnival Freedom, with its all-inclusive value, attractive itineraries, stimulating on-board environment, and diversity of facilities and features, offers the ultimate European vacation, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
12-Day Mediterranean & Greek Isles Voyages Aboard Carnival Freedom
Carnival Freedoms 2008 Europe season will kick off with a 12-day Mediterranean & Greek Isles voyage departing May 10, 2008. Other departure dates include June 15, Aug. 14, Sept. 19 and Oct. 25, 2008. These cruises will feature eight spectacular ports: Naples, Italy; Rhodes, Greece; Izmir (Ephesus) and Istanbul, Turkey, featuring scenic cruising of the Dardanelles; Athens (Piraeus) and Katakolon, Greece; and Livorno, Italy, as well as an overnight call in Rome (Civitavecchia).
These voyages offer a variety of unforgettable landside experiences, including visiting the legendary Acropolis and the Temple of Poseidon in Greece, as well as the ancient cities of Olympia, Priere, Didyma and Miletus, four of the best-preserved settlements of Grecian history. With the extended call in Istanbul, guests can visit the fabled Blue Mosque and Topkapi Museum, while the overnight call in Civitavecchia provides an opportunity to visit Rome to see the fabled Coliseum or to Vatican City to tour St. Peters Basilica.
Carnival Freedoms 12-Day Grand Mediterranean Cruises
The 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises will depart May 22, June 3 and 27, July 9 and 21, Aug. 2 and 26, Sept. 7, and Oct. 1 and 13. The voyages visit seven captivating ports: Naples and Venice (two-day call), Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Sicily; Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. During these cruises, guests can visit Capri, Taormina, Monte Carlo, Florence and Pisa, home to a variety of centuries-old historical landmarks and some of the worlds most celebrated museums. The two-day call in Venice offers guests an opportunity to sample the citys excellent restaurants, view stunning architecture, and visit magnificent museums and cathedrals.
Variety of Fun Ship Facilities & Features
Part of Carnivals 110,000-ton Conquest-class, Carnival Freedom will feature 22 lounges and bars, four swimming pools, a 13,300-square-foot health club, 100 percent bow-to-stern wireless Internet access, cell phone service, and Carnivals Seaside Theatre, a 270-square-foot LED screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming.
The ship will also house two two-deck-high main dining rooms, a 1,400-seat casual poolside eatery with a 24-hour pizzeria, and an elegant reservations-only supper club offering U.S.D.A. prime steaks and other gourmet cuisine. Also featured will be Camp Carnival and Club O2, with expansive facilities and supervised activities for children and teens, respectively. Accommodations include a wide selection of spacious staterooms including suites and staterooms with private balconies offering spectacular ocean views. All staterooms will include the Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.
Pricing & Reservations
Carnival is currently accepting reservations for Carnival Freedoms 2008 Europe departures. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, as well as round-trip air supplements from a variety of North American gateways and pre- and post-cruise land packages in Rome, are available. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com.
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Dive In! Wind Surf Adds New Dives in Caribbean
SEATTLE, Nov. 27 -- Wind Surf's popular scuba diving program in the Caribbean has been expanded with new double-tank dive sites in Dominica, Grenada and St. Martin. Windstar Cruises' elegant 312-guest motor sailing yacht Wind Surf offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean on reefs teeming with marine life.
"Sailing on the Wind Surf is an ideal opportunity to combine the adventure of diving with relaxation on a luxury ship," says Diane Moore, Windstar's vice president of marketing and sales. "If one-half of a couple isn't interested in diving, there is plenty to entertain them while their partner enjoys the diving excursions."
The shores of Dominica are well-known for excellent diving and the ship's stop in Roseau allows for two dives in the Scottshead Marine Reserve. The first dive at L'Abym takes divers to a vertical wall dropping to more than 800-feet in some places and teems with schooling reef fish. The second dive site, called Champagne, is located in a freshwater hot spring offering a unique experience diving with geo-thermal vents pumping up air bubbles and hot water. In Grenada, two dives in Flamingo Bay center around impressive rocks covered in rock fans, gorgonian bushes, barrel sponges, and coral fingers ending in a sandy white bottom. Divers may see a great variety of marine life here including sergeant majors, yellow stripe grunts, goatfish, lobster, eels and small octopus.
At the Wind Surf's stop in St. Martin, divers will transfer over to the Dutch side of the island where a local dive operator will choose two dive sites. Divers will descend down a mooring line onto the top of the reef. Diving in this area is known for close encounters with reef sharks, nurse sharks, hawksbill turtles, stingrays and possibly dolphins. Scuba diving enthusiasts can take advantage of Windstar's "Dive the Five" package offered at $350 for five one-tank dives. A Discover Scuba Diving program, as well as a PADI Advanced Open Water Course and Adventures in Diving program are also offered.
The Wind Surf's southbound itinerary roundtrip from Bridgetown, Barbados visits Bequia, Grenadines; Roseau, Dominica; Pigeon Island, St. Lucia; Mayreau, Grenadines; St. Georges, Grenada; and Tobago. The northbound itinerary roundtrip from Barbados visits Charlestown, Nevis; St. Martin; St. Barthelemy; Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe; Iles des Saintes; and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia. The two itineraries are ideal for combining into a two-week cruising vacation. Windstar's scuba diving program is also offered on the msy Wind Star in Costa Rica and the msy Wind Spirit sailing out of St. Thomas in the Caribbean.
As part of the line's Degrees of Difference initiative, another multi-million dollar investment will be made in all three ships in 2006 and 2007. For the Caribbean season, the Wind Surf will be fresh from a five-week work period in the fall with remodeled bathrooms in all staterooms, two new deluxe suites and the Yacht Club, the new hub of the ship with computers, Internet, espresso bar, books and movies, flat screen TV and comfortable seating.
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Crystal Symphony Emerges From Crystal Cruises' Largest-Ever Dry Dock
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 27 -- Following a $23 million dry dock, Crystal Symphony has emerged with a dazzling new nightclub, a complete redesign of its main entertainment deck and a decidedly sophisticated and contemporary style. Crystal Symphony's comprehensive refurbishment, its largest ever, has transformed all staterooms and bathrooms, completely reconstructed a social lounge and casino, refashioned boutiques, shops and its famed Bistro cafe, as well as dozens of behind the scenes improvements. Underscoring the company's commitment to quality, this major construction project follows a multi-million dollar renovation two years ago that debuted a brand-new Feng Shui-inspired spa, a new Vintage Room -- today one of the ship's most popular features, an expanded Computer University@Sea, redesign of specialty restaurants, and complete refurbishment of all penthouse accommodations. Within the last two years Crystal Cruises has invested in excess of $35 million dollars in new construction projects on Crystal Symphony, expanding the stylish choices in dining, recreation and relaxation.
"Whether veteran Crystal cruisers or new to Crystal, luxury travelers will be impressed by Crystal's continued attention to detail and style as well as the abundant space, extensive choices and friendly, attentive service that distinguish the Crystal experience," says Thomas Mazloum, Crystal's senior vice president of hotel operations.
Major projects on Crystal Symphony included:
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Staterooms
Completely redesigned with the look of a chic boutique hotel, the staterooms are elegant sanctuaries of refined style. Notable appointments such as new Murano glass bedside lamps, Rubelli fabrics and handsome leather headboard adorn a reconfigured space with state-of-the-art features including special LED reading lights and new 20" LCD flat screen televisions. Bathrooms are newly reconstructed with a contemporary style showcasing oval glass sinks atop granite countertops.
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Tiffany Deck - Main Entertainment Area
As the hub of social activity, shopping, entertainment and casually elegant dining, Tiffany Deck (deck six) was completely transformed from stem to stern with new color schemes, new construction and new contemporary lighting that will create different moods as day moves into night.
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New Starlite Club
Centrally located in the middle of Tiffany Deck, existing walls were removed and a dramatic round bar takes center stage in this stylishly open environment offering panoramic sea views. With window walls sparkling with Swarovski crystals, the new Starlite Club is the place to see and be seen, featuring lectures by day and dancing by night.
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New Crystal Casino
Dramatic black flooring now anchors a sophisticated new black and silver color palette in the completely redesigned Crystal Casino. In addition to black jack, roulette, baccarat, new offerings include The Ultimate Texas Hold-em and state-of-the-art slots.
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New Nightclub: Luxe
From its polished aluminum Phillipe Stark bar stools to the glass Bizzaza mosaics, Crystal Symphony's modern new nightclub, aptly named Luxe, is a sophisticated spot for drinks, dancing and conversation. Located adjacent to the new Crystal Casino, a dazzling new lighting system flashes electric color off shimmering finishes and stunning shades of black, silver and white.
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New Boutiques & Shops
Cultured and refined, sleek and sexy. The sophisticated boutiques and shops aboard Crystal Symphony were completely transformed with dramatic white marble, black accents, clean stone finishes and stunning chandeliers. Facets features a new private space for guests to consider high-end jewelry purchases, and Apropos offers the line's popular logo items and resort wear.
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New Bistro Cafe
A comfortable European atmosphere is recreated in this long-favorite venue, enhanced with new decorative tiles, new wall finishings and fresh upholstery all done in a warm palette of russets and earth tones.
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Computer University@Sea
Expanded just two years ago to accommodate the increased demand for its growing portfolio of courses, Crystal's revolutionary Computer University@Sea has been outfitted with all new equipment and features wireless access as well.
Crystal selected prestigious design firms to lead the reconstruction including SMC Design and Clixby Associates, regarded for its modern luxe design. Each has a proven history of high-end projects, including previous work on Crystal ships. Crystal Symphony was in dry dock at the BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair in Norfolk, Virginia from November 1-10, 2006.
In late November and December, Crystal Symphony cruises through the Panama Canal, before heading to Los Angeles for a holiday cruise. The luxury ship kicks off 2007 with several Panama Canal and Mexican Riviera cruises and then cruises to Asia and Europe. For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils 2008 World Cruise
FT. LAUDERDALE, Nov 27, 2006 - Regent Seven Seas Cruises will embark on the longest and most extensive voyage in its history with the 115-night 2008 World Cruise - the line's eighth such cruise. Guests will travel in stylish luxury aboard the 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager as she circumnavigates the globe, visiting 51 ports in 26 countries throughout the South Pacific, Orient and Arabia, as well as the Mediterranean and Bermuda. New for 2008, the voyage commences in beautiful San Francisco.
"We are delighted to unveil our most extensive World Cruise ever - truly an experience of a lifetime," said Regent President Mark Conroy. "With an itinerary designed through direct feedback from top travel agents and customers themselves, the 2008 World Cruise presents an ultimate travel fantasy - our largest ever selection of ports spanning five continents, 11 overnights, special on-board entertainment and the sumptuous amenities of a six-star luxury vessel."
The 2008 World Cruise will depart on January 6, 2008 from San Francisco with seven individual segments, each offering an array of exclusive Concierge Collection land adventures, as well as special onboard lecture programs and activities. Segments include:
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San Francisco to New Zealand (Jan. 6-30) - Visit the Hawaiian ports of Hilo, Maui and Honolulu before crossing the Equator to French Polynesia for calls in Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti as well as the Cook Islands. Then enjoy five luxurious days at open sea before visiting the pristine subtropical New Zealand port Bay of Islands and cosmopolitan Auckland.
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New Zealand to Sydney (Jan. 30-Feb. 9) - Cruise some of New Zealand's most picturesque ports including Tauranga, art deco Napier, and the stunning capital city of Wellington. Then depart for Tasmania, Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, voted by Travel + Leisure readers as the World's Best City for 11 years straight as part of the "World's Best" readers survey issue.
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Sydney to Shanghai (Feb. 9-29) - Sail the East Coast of Australia with stops in Hayman Island and Cairns, before sailing the Coral and Solomon Seas for the port of Madang in Papua New Guinea. Then cross the Equator for Saipan, Osaka and Kagoshima in Japan and bustling Shanghai, China.
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Shanghai to Singapore (Feb. 29-March 13) - Continue on to the exotic Asian ports of Hong Kong, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where the teeming economic center meets the timeless traditions of an ancient culture. Visit Bangkok and Ko Samui, Thailand before ending in Singapore, known for its outstanding hotels and world-class shopping.
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Singapore to Mumbai, India (March 13-27) - Visit the architecturally diverse colonial town of Georgetown, Penang, then travel to Yangon, Myanmar (formerly Rangoon, Burma) for two overnights in port. This less-visited destination holds cultural charm, friendly and laid back residents, and the magnificent golden Shwedagon Pagoda, viewed from most parts of the city. The voyage continues to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Mumbai (formerly Bombay), India.
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Mumbai to Piraeus (for Athens), Greece (March 27-April 13) - Voyage across the Arabian Sea for the glistening beaches and science-fiction skyscrapers of Dubai and the sparkling white capital city of Oman. Then cross the Red Sea to Jordan and three ancient Egyptian ports before transiting the Suez Canal and entering the Mediterranean for Rhodes, Greece and Turkey, ending in Athens.
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Athens to Ft.Lauderdale (April 13-30) - Walk the ancient ruins of Athens and Olympia before traveling to Malta, Tunisia and Malaga (Spain) and Madeira. Then cross the Atlantic Ocean on a relaxing six-day voyage at sea, with a stopover in Bermuda for a round of golf or shopping before ending in Ft.Lauderdale.
Seven Seas Voyager gives guests additional time in several ports with 11 overnight stays including Tahiti, Sydney, Osaka, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Min City, Mumbai and Dubai. For a dramatic beginning to the adventure, guests may combine the World Cruise with a 16-night Panama Canal cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to San Francisco to create a 131-night cruise (December 21, 2007 - January 6, 2008). Experience the tropical treasures of Grand Cayman, Colombia and Panama Canal; the pristine beauty of Costa Rica; and five Mexican hot spots before moving north to Los Angeles and finally cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Regent's 2007 World Cruise guests will be offered an exclusive opportunity to pre-book this journey beginning December 4, 2006, while general bookings will be accepted beginning December 18, 2006. Individual segments will be open for bookings beginning January 15, 2007. Cruise fares include all shipboard gratuities; complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; in-suite bar setup in butler suites; and refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer and bottled water replenished daily. Seven Seas Voyager is Regent's second all-suite, all-balcony vessel. This acclaimed, six-star ship caters to 700 guests, boasting an exceptionally generous space-per-guest ratio with the world's largest lead-in suites, including walk-in closets - ideal for longer cruises, and butler service in 88 suites. Seven Seas Voyager also features one of only two Le Cordon Bleu® restaurants at sea in Signatures, one of four single, open-seating restaurants on board.
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MSC Cruises A Musical Celebration
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Nov. 27, 2006 With ships whose names evoke melodious images (MSC Musica, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Rhapsody, MSC Melody, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia and MSC Orchestra) its not surprising that music plays a big part in the MSC Cruises experience. Onboard every MSC Cruises ship, guests will find live music around every corner. Performers in the lounges and on the pool deck fill the air with musical stylings, from popular dance music and hits of the 50s and 60s to classical guitar and jazz renditions. Plus, the ships theaters feature an international lineup of entertainers presenting different musical experiences each evening and the discos are the ideal place to dance the night away to the latest pulsating beats.
MSC Cruises is also celebrating music with several special themed sailings:
Big Band Sounds
MSC Cruises celebrates music during the 2006-07 Caribbean season with Big Band theme cruises onboard MSC Operas 11-night roundtrip cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale Jan. 14, Feb. 5, Feb. 27 and March 21. During each sailing, Music of Your Life at Sea recaptures the grand tradition of an elegant variety of musical entertainment at sea with the 15-piece Tommy Dorsey Orchestra under the direction of famed trombonist Buddy Morrow.
Enjoy the classics of the Big Bands of the 40s as well as Dixieland, rhythm and blues, jazz and contemporary tunes. Joining the musical celebration are such talents as emcee and original New York City Morning Mayor Herb Oscar Anderson, as well as Sinatra-styled vocalist Rob Zappulla, and female vocalists Lorri Hafer (Id Like to Teach the World to Sing) and Michele Anastasio (Tribute to Patsy Cline). In addition to performances throughout the sailing, guests will be able to meet the performers as they travel to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Costa Maya, Puerto Limon, Cristobal, Santa Marta, Curacao and Samana (where guests can opt for an excursion to the lines private paradise at Cayo Levantado).
Dance Cruises
MSC Cruises features two itineraries that are ideal for dancing under the stars while sailing to the birthplace of passionate dances South America. Take to the dance floor to learn from some of the best dance teachers and compete in dance contests on two of MSC Sinfonias repositioning cruises, departing Nov. 23 from Genoa to Rio de Janeiro (17 nights) and Nov. 26, 2007 (18 nights) from Genoa to Buenos Aires. Highly qualified dance instructors will lead lessons in Samba, Bolero, Tango, Salsa, Country, Lambada, Mambo, Merengue, Rumba, Cha Cha, Jazz and more. Guests of all ages will be swirling around the dance floor to their favorite music before they know it!
Classical Cruises
Classical music takes center stage on MSC Melodys Nov. 18, 2007 21-night sailing from Genoa to Durban. The itinerary features afternoon interludes, evening concerts, lectures on the history of classical music and new ways to appreciate and understand the unique and universal language that is music.
For more information about MSC Cruises and its music theme cruises, visit www.msccruises.com or a local travel agent.
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New Scrapbooking@Sea Lets Princess Passengers Get Creative with Vacation Memories
Santa Clarita, CA, Nov 21, 2006 - One of the country's fastest-growing pastimes is coming aboard the Princess fleet with a new way for scrapbooking fans to take their hobby to sea. The recently launched Princess Scrapbooking@Sea program is designed to encourage passengers to preserve their cruise memories in a fun and creative way. The first such program hosted by a cruise line, the new activity offers a social atmosphere where passengers can learn helpful hints on how to enjoy this popular activity. Presented as part of Princess' award-winning ScholarShip@Sea educational program, Scrapbooking@Sea incorporates a series of onboard classes and a specially created scrapbooking kit with unique themed pages designed exclusively for Princess. The program begins rolling out to select ships this month, and is expected to be available across the Princess fleet by early 2007.
"Scrapbooking has become one of America's favorite hobbies," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "And what better way to create a personalized memento of your cruise than to create scrapbook pages while you're actually on the ship. This program was tested aboard several of our vessels with great success - so we're pleased to now offer this popular activity fleet wide."
Scrapbooking@Sea offers a series of classes, starting with a complimentary Scrapbooking Basics class which will introduce passengers to the art of creating scrapbook pages. Participants will learn how to use basic tools of the craft, familiarize themselves with page design and journaling techniques, and will receive the supplies and instruction needed to create their first page. Subsequent courses are available to all passengers who purchase Princess' special scrapbooking kit. Classes offer tips and creative ideas, plus plenty of free time to work on pages with a full range of supplies available for use, including scissors, adhesive, deluxe paper, die cut machines with assorted die cuts, a selection of pens and other items that can be used during the class sessions. All materials are acid-free and archival safe.
Princess' special Scrapbooking@Sea kit features decorative papers, stickers and rub-on emblems along with instructions on how to build five unique vacation-themed pages. These pages can be used to create decorative backdrops for photos from typical cruise activities such as welcome aboard, days at sea, shore excursions, or formal evenings. Kits are available for $24.95 at any Scrapbooking@Sea class or at the ship's onboard photo gallery. Additional themed kits are being developed for future sailings. In addition, a specially designed Princess scrapbook is available for purchase at the ship's photo gallery.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Celebrity Cruises Sizzles In The Caribbean
MIAMI, Nov 20 -- Celebrity Cruises is serving up another sizzling "Savor the Caribbean" series featuring some of the nation's hottest chefs. Celebrity's fourth annual series will take place on Millennium's seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailings from January 7 through March 4, 2007, with a host of celebrated chefs and restaurateurs.
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Allen Susser, renowned creator of "Palm Tree Cuisine," will be the featured chef on Millennium's January 7 itinerary. Susser's namesake restaurant, "Chef Allen's," was named "Best Restaurant South of New York City" by Travel + Leisure magazine.
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Heating up the January 14 cruise will be Cindy Hutson, owner of "Ortanique," which has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Five Star Diamond Award, Mobil Four Stars and "Best New Restaurant" honors from Esquire magazine. Hutson is best known for her "Cuisine of the Sun," combining South American, Asian, Caribbean and American fusion influences.
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Starring on Millennium's January 21 itinerary will be the "Caribbean Cowboy," Chef Johnny Vinczencz. Known in Florida for his Caribbean-influenced cuisine, Vinczencz is adding a second "Johnny V" restaurant on South Beach, in addition to his Ft. Lauderdale location which has garnered praise by the Miami Herald and Wine Spectator.
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Robert Trevino will be sizzling on Millennium's cruise setting sail on February 18. Mixing his Mexican heritage, classic training and passion for Puerto Rican cooking, Trevino has helped shape "Nuevo Latino" cuisine. He has appeared on shows including Rachel Ray's $40 A Day, and even challenged Mario Batali on Food Network's Iron Chef America.
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Edgar Leal, who will be steaming up Millennium's February 25 cruise, developed his culinary style in his native Venezuela, where he learned to combine the classic and modern culinary influences of Latin America to create his signature Pan-American culinary style. His restaurant, "Cacao," was recently named one of the best new restaurants in Miami by the Miami Herald.
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Those sailing on March 4th will enjoy the company of two star chefs, Carmen Gonzalez and Norman Van Aken. Gonzalez, chef and owner of "Carmen the Restaurant," is inspired by seafood and the traditional fare of her native Puerto Rico. Gonzalez infuses traditional Pan-Latino ingredients with modern elegance and imagination, using bold flavors with a deft hand. Her restaurant has been named "One of the Best New Restaurants in America" by Esquire magazine. World-renowned chef and culinary innovator, Norman Van Aken, is the owner of three award-winning restaurants. Van Aken is one of the only chefs in America to have won the coveted James Beard Award and Food Arts' Silver Spoon award for lifetime achievement.
Onboard Extras
Guests onboard Millennium will have the rare opportunity to participate in a hands-on cooking class with the featured chef on each "Savor the Caribbean" cruise. Two classes will be offered per cruise with a class size limited to eight. The cooking class, two hours long, will have an extra charge of $59 per person. Guests also may participate in a Bacardi-sponsored class that teaches them to make perfect mojitos, complete with souvenir muddler and glass.
Extending guests culinary education on land, Celebrity will feature a host of culinary-inspired shore excursions. For example, in San Juan, guests can enjoy a private cooking demonstration with Chef Robert Trevino at his "Parrot Club," hailed by Bon Appetit for serving "the best meal in the Caribbean." The luncheon menu includes a taste of traditional Puerto Rican fare including The Parrot Club's famous "parrot passions" rum drink. In St. Thomas, guests can be a part of an intimate cooking demonstration hosted by three-time "Best Chef on St. Thomas" winner Brian Katz at his new restaurant, "Wikked." Chef Katz will demonstrate and serve recipes such as his three-rum-flamed shrimp with fried cassava, malt-marinated chicken with plantain mofongo and Grand Marnier-macerated mangoes with white chocolate cake and caramelized cashews.
Shore excursions and cooking classes can be purchased online up to 10 days prior to sailing, as well as onboard, if space remains available. Departing Fort Lauderdale on Saturdays, Millennium will call on Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit the Celebrity web site at www.celebritycruises.com.
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Celebrity Cancels a Millennium Cruise For Pod Repairs
11/17/2006 -- Celebrity Cruises has cancelled Millenniums December 10th one-week Caribbean sailing in order to replace a bearing in the ships pod propulsion system. Repairs are expected to be completed during the unscheduled drydock in Grand Bahama in time for Millennium to re-enter service for her December 17th cruise from Fort Lauderdale.
Passengers booked on the cancelled cruise will receive a full refund and a free future cruise. Celebrity has set up a special desk to assist passengers on the canceled sailing. Booked passengers or their travel agents can call 1-888-281-9343 for information and to rebook.
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From Cruise Ship to Scholar Ship
Miami, Nov 17 2006 The Scholar Ship, an oceangoing campus backed by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and six international universities, will launch its maiden 16-week voyage with 600 students from around the world in September 2007. The Scholar Ship is the first ship-based international education program to immerse graduate and undergraduate students in a multi-cultural, multi-destination academic and living environment.
Students and staff will embark The Scholar Ship in Piraeus (Greece) and sail westward on a compelling itinerary to Lisbon (Portugal), Panama City (Panama), Guayaquil (Ecuador), Papeete (Tahiti), Suva (Fiji), Sydney (Australia), Shanghai (China), Okinawa and Kobe (both Japan). The January 2008 voyage will depart Kobe and call on Shanghai, Singapore, Cochin (India), Port Victoria (Seychelles), Cape Town (South Africa), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Casablanca (Morocco), Barcelona (Spain), and Piraeus. Future itineraries are under development. Ports of call provide extensive educational opportunities for students through a port program in which students participate in academic field study, shore excursions and independent travel.
The rigorous academic program has been developed by six international universities, including the University of California, Berkeley representing the United States, Macquarie University (Australia), Fudan University (China), Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico), Al Akhawayn University (Morocco), and University of Ghana representing Sub-Saharan Africa. On behalf of The Scholar Ships Consortium of Academic Stewards, Macquarie University has been designated to award academic credit to students. The study abroad community recognizes Macquarie University for its longstanding and successful history of hosting international students.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. provides funding and operational support for The Scholar Ship. Having traveled the world extensively, for both business and pleasure, I believe The Scholar Ships goals of building a globally competent and culturally sensitive workforce could not be more timely and essential, said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
Multinational corporations such as IBM, Microsoft and HSBC Bank also have been engaged to ensure the programs learning outcomes are relevant and practical for students. The Scholar Ship has gone well beyond the norm in designing its program by engaging multinational employers on the front end of the development cycle to better understand the demands of tomorrows global workforce, likely increasing the employability of its students, says Claudette Whiting, general manager of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Microsoft.
The Scholar Ships introduction reflects the increased interest and extraordinary growth in study abroad programs. Over the past decade the number of American students studying abroad has more than doubled according to the Institute of International Education (IIE). More than 8,000 students from over 175 countries have already requested an application for admission. The Americas region represents 36% of student interest; Europe/Middle East/Africa, 44%; and Asia Pacific, 20%.
Joseph Olander, president of The Scholar Ship said, "Response from such a broad group of students has been impressive. We now believe our distinctive education abroad model has caught on, in part because of the internationally diverse student body we are committed to recruiting. Hosting students and staff from around the world aboard our oceangoing campus provides a unique opportunity to immerse students in a multicultural environment, an effort that would be virtually impossible to undertake otherwise."
The program is in the final stages of leasing a ship that will become The Scholar Ship. Further details on the vessel will be announced shortly. Program fees are approximately US $20,000 per semester. A $2 million scholarship fund has been established for the 2007/2008 academic year to broaden the availability of this program to students from diverse backgrounds. Scholarships will be awarded based on merit and economic need. For additional information, call 410.962.7344, visit www.TheScholarShip.com, or email .
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Best Fare, Best Room Rate Means Big Savings for Early Bookings on MSC Cruises Europe Sailings
Fort Lauderdale, FL, Nov. 16, 2006 If you have your heart set on a European vacation in 2007, MSC Cruises can make your dream come true with special Best Fare, Best Room rates. By booking early, guests can reserve the best accommodations at the lowest price within their selected category. With its roots in Europe, MSC Cruises features extraordinary experiences in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe on ships with style that is Beautiful. Passionate. Italian.
MSC Cruises Best Fare, Best Room promotion for Mediterranean and Northern European sailings allows guests to reserve the best stateroom within various categories at the lowest available price at time of booking and provides a savings of up to $1,655 per person on the retail rate of select sailings. Pricing has been simplified into categories of interior, oceanview, balcony, etc., depending on the ship. As an added bonus, guests can combine this special rate with the lines Kids Sail Free offer: youngsters ages 17 and under sharing a stateroom with two paying guests sail free (except for government fees and taxes).
By booking early, guests can have their choice of staterooms at a price that is truly the best, says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA). Once onboard, they will enjoy the history and culture of Europe while experiencing exceptional service, wonderful international entertainment and a wide assortment of activities, from sports and pool games to spa treatments and just relaxing on deck.
To take advantage of the Best Fare, Best Room pricing, guests must book by Jan. 31. For more information about MSC Cruises and the Best Fare, Best Room rates, visit www.msccruises.com or a local travel agent.
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Princess Ships Deck the Hallsand their MastsFor a Festive Holiday Season at Sea
SANTA CLARITA, CA - Nov 15, 2006 - From the Christmas tree adorning the ship's mast to a visit from Santa, the holiday season brings a special kind of cheer to Princess ships. This year, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year celebrations will be in full swing fleetwide, with several new seasonal activities for passengers to enjoy. Trimmed from stem to stern in festive holiday décor, Princess ships will reflect the season in a variety of ways. Special menus and culinary displays will offer traditional goodies. Strolling carolers and live musicians will fill the air with the sounds of the season. And the ship's movie screens will feature the holiday classics loved by young and old alike.
Some special activities debut this season, adding to the festivities. Children of all ages will enjoy a special reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by a member of the ship's company. A holiday production show debuts in the Princess Theater on select ships, with the opportunity for photos with the cast members in their holiday finery. On Christmas Eve, passengers will sit down to a dinner of traditional holiday fare, and on Christmas Day passengers can enjoy a cup of eggnog, plus a sumptuous brunch including roast turkey and all the trimmings. Freshly prepared stolen and Christmas cookies round out the seasonal treats. A full day of activities on Christmas Day centers around the atrium, with events for young and old. A spectacular display from the ship's culinary team, including a variety of gingerbread houses, will delight the senses. Santa is sure to drop in with gifts, and stay for a special photo session to capture the moment with passengers. Elsewhere, a holiday variety show adds a seasonal element to the ship's entertainment offerings. Religious services are held as well, and passengers can attend midnight mass or an inter-denominational church service performed by onboard clergy.
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Christmas For Kids - Christmas Day will be especially festive for the ship's younger cruisers. Santa Claus is sure to make an appearance with his sack full of toys, along with his Princess helper, Pelican Pete. A fun-filled holiday fair in the atrium offers youngsters the opportunity to try their hand at cookie decorating, balloon making, face painting, games and other competitions. The Youth centers will host holiday parties for each age group, and kids can make decorations to display on the center's Christmas tree. Youngsters can get creative with other holiday-themed arts and crafts projects throughout the cruise, and they will have an opportunity to sing Christmas carols for passengers. Classic family holiday movies will be screened in the kids centers and the ship's theaters. For parents who want to stay up later to celebrate the holidays, free late-night group kid sitting sessions will be available on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
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Hanukkah - Passengers celebrating the festival of lights on board can participate in religious services, including special prayer and song services conducted by a rabbi who sails during the holiday period. A special area of the ship is reserved for those participating in these events and ships display menorahs and fresh flower arrangements decorated in the Hanukkah colors of blue, silver and white. Children will enjoy themed arts and crafts pertinent to the holiday, which runs from December 15 to 22.
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Ringing in the New Year -- Princess ships will welcome 2007 in style with a fun-filled New Year's Eve party where revelers can count down to the new year with music, confetti, noise-makers and a balloon drop. Earlier in the evening, passengers will enjoy a special New Year's Eve menu. And once the new year arrives, football fans will be pleased to know they won't miss the day's traditional college bowl games, as the telecasts will be shown (if available) in a shipboard lounge or on some vessels' giant Movies Under the Stars screen, complete with a full buffet of "munchies" such as popcorn, chips, mini hot dogs or burgers, and other assorted goodies.
This season, Princess' 15-ship fleet offers a wide range of sailings over the holiday period, offering the opportunity to celebrate in the Caribbean, Mexico, the Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand, South America, Hawaii and the South Pacific. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Dubai's Tourism Revolution Attracts Crystal Cruises In 2007
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 15 -- As Dubai continues on its awe-inspiring climb as one of the world's hottest travel destinations, Crystal Cruises is expanding its travel opportunities to this stylish emirate with four diverse cruises and a new pre- and post-cruise hotel stay. For the first time, the award-winning luxury line will deploy both of its ships in the region in 2007. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will offer a total of four cruises that begin and end in Dubai.
Considered the "pride of United Arab Emirates," Dubai's flourishing tourism is attracting the attention of today's most sophisticated travelers. Located midway between Europe and the Far East, Dubai bridges exotic destinations on four new Crystal itineraries:
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March 3; Cape Town, South Africa to Dubai, 17 days (Crystal Serenity)
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March 20; Dubai to Istanbul, Turkey, 18 days (Crystal Serenity)
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May 1; Singapore to Dubai, 16 days (Crystal Symphony)
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May 17; Dubai to Rome, Italy. At 14 days, this is the shortest of the Dubai cruises that also includes visits to Salalah, Safaga, Alexandria and Sorrento (Crystal Symphony)
"We're offering twice as many cruises to Dubai in 2007 over 2006, and interest in the region still surpasses our expectations," says Bill Smith, Crystal Cruises' senior vice president, sales and marketing. "Dubai is one of the world's fastest-growing travel destinations -- intriguing for its mix of architecture, cultural tolerance and welcoming hospitality. Of course, to many, one of its greatest attractions is its superb, tax-free shopping."
With its new hotel program, Crystal guests have the option of extending their stays at the plush Grand Hyatt Dubai, a city centre resort set within 37 acres of lavishly landscaped gardens. Famous for its courtesy and hospitality, Dubai is a land of fascinating contrasts. Ancient gold souks and traditional customs thrive alongside soaring skyscrapers, man-made islands visible from outer space, haute couture shopping and incomparable sporting opportunities such as sand dune surfing, camel racing and even ice skating and skiing.
Interesting facts about Dubai:
In 2005, Dubai enjoyed a 60% increase over 2004 of visitors from the U.S.
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In a single day, a tourist can experience mountains, desert, beaches, lush green parks, small villages, luxurious residential districts, ancient primitive architecture and ultra-modern shopping malls.
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Many say that the exceptional travel-oriented facilities of the modern Dubai Cruise Terminal are due to it being the only cruise terminal in the world operated by a government department of tourism.
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The gold souk may be Dubai's most famous market, but shopping ranges from Paris and Milan couture and high-tech electronics to traditional carpets, textiles and spices.
Free of tax, many top brand-name products are cheaper in Dubai than in their countries of origin. For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
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MSC Cruises Expands 'Kids Sail Free' Program to Mediterranean, Northern Europe Sailings
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Nov. 15 -- MSC Cruises' "Kids Sail Free" offer has proven so popular in the Caribbean that the line is extending it to its 2007 European sailings. Youngsters ages 17 and under sail free (except for government fees and taxes) on all of the line's Mediterranean and Northern Europe itineraries. when sharing a stateroom with two paying guests Cruise-only rates, which are dependent on stateroom category and sailing, begin at $795 per person, double occupancy.
MSC Cruises' European itineraries allow families to savor the subtle pleasures of European life, history and culture while visiting magnificent destinations and absorbing the line's "Beautiful. Passionate. Italian." cruise experience. Onboard, guests of all ages can enjoy the ship's elegant design, exceptional service, delicious cuisine (featuring authentic Italian dishes, international delights and a children's menu with younger-set favorites such as hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza), Kids' Club activities and European-style entertainment suitable for the entire family. For more information about MSC Cruises and its "Kids Sail Free" program, visit www.msccruises.com or a local travel agent.
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Princess to Hold Historic Simultaneous Namings for Emerald Princess & Royal Princess in Santorini, Greece
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Nov 14, 2006 - In a historic first for Princess Cruises, the 3,100-passenger Emerald Princess and 710-passenger Royal Princess will formally join the fleet in an unprecedented dual christening ceremony, set against the brilliant blue waters of the Greek island of Santorini. The simultaneous namings will take place on May 12, 2007 and will be the first double ship launch for Princess. The unique naming event, featuring one of the line's largest and smallest vessels, will underscore the range of ship choice found throughout the Princess fleet, which includes three intimately sized ships. The modern Emerald Princess, an amenity-filled sister ship to the line's largest vessels, will offer a dramatic contrast to Royal Princess, less than a quarter of the size and offering passengers a true small-ship experience.
The event also marks the first cruise ship christening held in the idyllic Greek isle's waters. Santorini, recently voted by Travel & Leisure magazine as Europe's top island, is a featured call on five Princess itineraries. Both Emerald Princess and Royal Princess will make regular visits to this picturesque island throughout the Europe cruise season. Both ships begin sailing in Europe this April on a series of Mediterranean itineraries, featuring a variety of sought-after and unique destinations, including the Greek isles, Crimean Coast, Egypt and the Holy Land, and a number of new ports on the Adriatic Sea.
"These two ships represent the full scope of our fleet - from large to small - and it will be a wonderful contrast to launch them together at the same time," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "And because we're renowned for our wide-ranging worldwide itineraries to exciting places, we're excited to celebrate this historic event in such a fabulous port."
The two new ships will both offer passengers the best of Europe with a variety of cruise experiences and itineraries. Emerald Princess will sail to the most sought-after ports in the Mediterranean, featuring the region's most popular and historic destinations. Royal Princess' boutique cruise experience is the perfect complement to its series of "Elite" itineraries, taking advantage of the ship's small size to introduce four unusual new ports to Princess' worldwide lineup.
Emerald Princess - The 113,000-ton Emerald Princess, a sister ship to the new Crown Princess, will be the line's first ship to begin its life cruising from Rome's seaport, the town of Civitavecchia. Emerald Princess' first cruise, a 12-day Greek Isles itinerary, will set sail on April 11 on a voyage to Venice taking passengers to some of the most scenic spots in the Mediterranean and Aegean. Thereafter the ship will offer a series of Greek Isles and Grand Mediterranean cruises before repositioning to Ft. Lauderdale for Caribbean sailings in the fall.
Emerald Princess will include the many new design innovations introduced aboard Crown Princess earlier this year, including a dramatic piazza-style atrium and an adults-only retreat called The Sanctuary. The ship will also feature the many hallmark features that define the Princess experience, such as the dramatic Movies Under the Stars poolside movie screen, multiple dining and entertainment options, a Lotus Spa fitness center, an extensive children and teen's center, a wedding chapel and nearly 900 staterooms with private balconies.
Royal Princess - Princess will expand its fleet with an intimately sized sister vessel to the line's popular Tahitian Princess and Pacific Princess. The 710-passenger Royal Princess takes the name of a much-beloved former Princess ship, and joins the fleet on April 19 with a series of unique Europe cruises. The 30,000-ton ship originally entered service in 2001 as a Renaissance vessel (named R8) and is currently cruising as Swan Hellenic's Minerva II. After a drydock to transform the ship into a "princess," Royal Princess will join its sisters to give passengers a cruising environment with all the hallmarks of choice for which Princess is known, including a variety of dining and entertainment options and a large number of cabins with private balconies.
Royal Princess will offer globetrotters the opportunity to add some interesting new destinations to their travels with a series of 12-day Elite Mediterranean cruises to a variety of unusual destinations. These five unique new itineraries, including Princess' first sailings to the Holy Land in more than five years, also feature the new ports of Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; and Canakkale (for Troy), Turkey - all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other unique destinations include Corsica and Sardinia, and the Crimean coast.
Further details on this historic naming ceremony will be released in coming months. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.
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Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Finalizes Pullmantur Purchase
MIAMI, Nov. 14 -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has completed its purchase of Madrid-based cruise and tour operator Pullmantur S.A. Closing documents were signed today in Madrid. In August, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. signed an agreement with Pullmantur's shareholders to buy all the company's capital stock. Last month, the company received regulatory approval for the acquisition.
"The Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Pullmantur partnership officially begins today and we could not be happier," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "Together, we look forward to an exciting future of expanding our brands globally."
"We are very pleased to become a member of the Royal Caribbean family," said Alfonso Lopez Perez, general manager of Pullmantur. "Our united company is well positioned to provide our guests with a variety of cruising options throughout the world."
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Five Costa Ships Make Transatlantic Voyages From Europe to the Americas for 2006/2007 Winter Season
MIAMI, Nov. 14 -- Throughout the months of November and December, five Costa ships will set sail from Savona, Italy to bring la dolce vita of "Cruising Italian Style" to the Caribbean and South America for the 2006-2007 winter season. The first transatlantic cruise, aboard the Costa Magica, left November 2 and will arrive in Fort Lauderdale after a 17-night itinerary with stopovers in Spain, the Canary Islands, the Antilles, the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas. The Costa Mediterranea departs November 17 for Ft. Lauderdale on a 15-night itinerary and will also call on ports in Spain, the Canary Islands, the Antilles, the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas. Both ships will be based in Ft. Lauderdale through April. The Costa Atlantica, which is marketed exclusively to European customers, will depart December 3 on a 13-night itinerary calling in Spain, the Canary Islands, the Antilles and the Dominican Republic before arriving in Guadeloupe, its home port for the season. The ship will also offer 7-day sailings throughout the Caribbean. All three ships will feature at least one new route, including stops in such exclusive destinations as St. Bart's; Roatan, Honduras; Grand Turk and Belize City.
Two additional Costa transatlantic cruises will depart in November en route for South America, where Costa is the region's number one cruise line. The Costa Fortuna sets sail November 20 on a 17-night cruise to Santos, Brazil with stopovers in Spain, the Canary Islands and the Brazilian coast. This is the first season the Costa Fortuna will sail the region, increasing Costa's cruise capacity by approximately 20% in South America. The Costa Romantica will depart on November 21 for Santos on a 17-night cruise that also includes stops in Spain, the Canary Islands and the Brazilian coast.
Savona will remain the home port for three Costa ships -- the Costa Concordia, Costa Victoria and Costa Europa -- throughout the winter season. These ships will offer 43 cruises as part of Costa's "Mediterranean Value Voyage" collection, featuring savings of up to 45%. The collection includes 10- and 11-night cruises throughout Spain, Morocco, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Egypt, Cyprus and Greece.
Costa, Europe's Number One Cruise Line, offers an experience that is delightfully different in service and cuisine, in an atmosphere filled with love, laughter and la dolce vita. It's called "Cruising Italian Style" and true to its heritage, no detail has been overlooked in bringing the beauty and hospitality of Italy to the sea. Cruising Italian Style ... that's Amore! The ships of Costa range in size from 30,000-tons to 112,000-tons, and provide an ambience that is distinctly Italian -- from the progressive architecture and stylish design to the unforgettable cuisine and gracious hospitality. With eleven ships in service and three on order, Costa offers cruises that span the globe on itineraries of three nights and longer throughout the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America, Transatlantic, Dubai, and the Far East. For reservations or more information, contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
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Princess Introduces New Overland Shore Excursion Options in Asia/Australia
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Nov 13, 2006 - Princess passengers headed to Asia and Australia have a unique new opportunity to venture beyond their ship's ports of call and travel inland to some of the world's most impressive wonders. Two new overland shore excursions debut for the fall season featuring "must see" attractions - Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat, and northern Australia's stunning Kakadu National Park - both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The new multi-day tour options are available to passengers aboard Sapphire Princess' Asia and Australia/Asia cruises. Overland shore excursions give passengers the opportunity to spend several days ashore during a cruise and experience more of the area of the world in which they are traveling. The shore excursion options, which are designed to flow seamlessly with the ship's itinerary, allow passengers to easily explore some of the world's most dramatic wonders by leaving the ship in one port and rejoining in another. Packages include hotel stays, meals and transportation.
The new excursions debuting this season are:
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Grand Overland: Cambodia's Angkor Wat & Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City - A three-day journey between Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City (alternate itinerary patterns also available from Bangkok) featuring a flight to Cambodia to visit that country's legendary Angkor Wat. This famous temple complex dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu was abandoned by the Khmer civilization in 1431 and was lost to the world until it was rediscovered in 1860 when a botanist stumbled upon it deep in the jungle. After years of civil war, Angkor Wat - one of the world's most important archaeological sites - is once again open to travelers. Other tour highlights include a stay in Singapore and a day in Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City. This tour is available to passengers on Sapphire Princess' Southeast Asia and China itineraries.
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Top End Overland Adventure: National Parks of Northern Australia - A four-day excursion from Darwin that rejoins the ship in Cairns, this adventure focuses on the majestic Kakadu National Park, featuring extensive wetlands, diverse wildlife and the largest number of accessible Aboriginal sites in Australia. The deep Katherine River Gorge carved through ancient sandstone in Nitmuluk National Park, as well as the towns of Darwin and Cairns are also featured. The tour is available on Sapphire Princess' Asia/Australia itinerary.
"These fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations shouldn't be missed, and now passengers can easily travel farther and experience more of a destination than they would be able to with just a day in port," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "Princess was one of the first lines to offer these unique tour opportunities for our passengers, and for a segment of cruise passengers they have great appeal."
Princess now offers a total of 16 overland tour options around the world, featuring some of the globe's most sought-after destinations. In addition to Angkor Wat and Kakadu National Park, Princess overland tours can take passengers to such famed worldwide attractions such as Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids of Egypt, New Zealand's Mt. Cook, Hanoi, and an African safari. Overland shore excursions include flights, accommodations, transfers, admission to attractions and meals as stated. Costs vary depending on the destination and tour.
Princess shore excursions can be reserved online via the company's Cruise Personalizer, where they are posted up to 120 days in advance of the cruise. Additional information about Princess excursions is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or at www.princess.com/shorex/index.jsp.
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Carnival Triumph to Operate New Seasonal
Exotic Eastern Caribbean Itinerary
MIAMI, Nov 13, 2006Carnival Cruise Lines 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph will operate a unique new four-port seven-day Exotic Eastern Caribbean itinerary from Miami beginning April 2007 that features a perfect combination of diverse and captivating ports of call. Stops on the itinerary include Half Moon Cay, a stunning Bahamian private island; San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its rich cultural heritage and fascinating historical sites; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., whose postcard perfect beaches, gorgeous mountain terrain and endless shopping make it a venerable favorite; and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, the Caribbeans newest port of call, offering world-renowned snorkeling, diving and beaches. The program will operate seasonally, with cruises departing from Miami every other Sunday from April 21 through August 11, 2007.
With the Carnival Triumphs new seven-day itinerary, we are offering four fantastic ports that together offer a unique Eastern Caribbean cruise experience that is only available on Carnival, said Bob Dickinson, president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines.
The Carnival Triumph features a wide variety of amenities, including a 15,000-square-foot spa, a jogging track, full casino gambling, and 18 themed lounges and bars with dramatic interiors inspired by the worlds great cities. Dining options include twin two-level restaurants offering extensive menus and wine lists and a casual poolside eatery featuring 24-hour pizza and ice cream/frozen yogurt. The ship also features cellular phone service, an Internet café, and wireless access in virtually all public rooms and areas.
Carnival Triumph offers a wide variety of spacious accommodations, including spectacular suites and a wide selection of staterooms offering dramatic ocean views from private balconies ideal for scenic cruising. All accommodations feature the new Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system featuring plush mattresses, luxurious duvets, and high quality pillows and linens.
All Carnival ships feature the lines top-rated Camp Carnival childrens program, as well as Club O2, created in partnership with Coca-Cola, which offers specialized activities and facilities for teens. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com.
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Celebrity Cruises Leaps Into Learning for Kids With
LeapFrog SchoolHouse Programs
MIAMI, Nov. 13 -- Celebrity Cruises has taken a creative leap toward enhancing its onboard activities for kids of all ages by working with LeapFrog SchoolHouse to provide engaging, multisensory learning tools and instruction that align with Celebrity's travel itineraries around the world. Widely recognized for their interactive, electronic education programs and products for the pre-kindergarten through grade 8 education market, LeapFrog SchoolHouse's award-winning writers and editors have worked with Celebrity to make available onboard a variety of their most popular products, and created six exclusive educational modules for children ages 3 through 9.
The new programming onboard focuses on topics including dinosaurs, science and space, sports, the world, art and music, and wildlife. Additional activities tailored to specific Celebrity itineraries also have been developed to enlighten and entertain children on the heritage, customs, crafts, art, and music of Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Mediterranean -- all regions where Celebrity generally attracts a higher percentage of families traveling with children.
"Shipboard youth programs typically are designed to provide kids with fun activities while cruising," said Celebrity's Vice President of Entertainment & Activities, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. "Our goal is to go beyond that concept, providing kids with an environment where they can learn while also having a great time."
Kids of every age will enjoy the LeapFrog SchoolHouse products now available across the Celebrity fleet, including popular personal learning tools (PLTs) such as LeapPad® PLT, Quantum LeapPad PLT, the Leapster handheld, the new L-Max Leapster handheld and the Odyssey Globe. Celebrity also provides a full line of LeapFrog toddler products within its X-Club youth facility.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse publishes research-based assessment and curriculum content for the pre-kindergarten through grade 8 education market. LeapFrog SchoolHouse's multisensory products currently reach students in more than 100,000 classrooms across the United States, and product areas currently include assessment, reading, language arts, math, English language development, and early literacy.
Celebrity's "X-Club" Youth Program offers a full, four-tiered program year-round, led by fully qualified and experienced counselors, with age- specific activities for Shipmates (ages 3-6), Cadets (ages 7-9), Ensigns (ages 10-12) and Admiral T's (ages 13-17). Children under three years of age may enter the facility and join in the program if accompanied by an adult.
Celebrity's current nine-ship fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, and a third Solstice-class ship in 2010. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity website at www.celebritycruises.com.
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Holland America Line Celebrates Its European Heritage With Name of Its New Signature Class Vessel, ms Eurodam
SEATTLE, Nov. 8 -- Holland America Line will name its new 2,044-passenger Signature-class ship, ms Eurodam. To be delivered in summer 2008, the new Eurodam marks Holland America Line's next class of vessels and the largest ever constructed for the premium line. With an estimated all-in cost of $450 million, the new 86,000-ton Panamax Eurodam will be built at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard.
"This will be the 80th passenger ship to sail in the company's fleet and the first ship in our illustrious history to bear the name Eurodam," said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. "We chose the name Eurodam to celebrate our European and Dutch heritage and our third century of sailing in one of the world's most popular cruising regions." The company's first ship, the ss Rotterdam, sailed her maiden voyage from Rotterdam to New York City in October of 1872, 134 years ago last month.
When launched in 2008, the Eurodam will further the evolution of Holland America Line's sophisticated mid-sized ships to further define and expand the Holland America Line premium brand. With 11 passenger decks, new innovations include a topside 144-seat Pan-Asian restaurant and 50-seat lounge surrounded by panoramic views overlooking the ocean expanse and the Lido pool. Other additions are an Explorer's Lounge Bar, a new specialty restaurant adjacent to the Lido offering the finest in Italian food, elegant luxury jewelry boutiques, new atrium bar area, enhanced and reconfigured show lounge with theater-style seating, and a new photographic and imaging center. The line's renowned Explorations Cafe, powered by The New York Times will be located on the starboard side of the Crow's Nest, providing a scenic backdrop for guests wishing to enjoy specialty coffees, surf the internet and take advantage of the cafe's music listening stations.
With an additional deck, the Eurodam will have 63 new staterooms more than the latest Vista-class ship. Forty-seven will be verandah cabins and ten will be a new style of stateroom with ceiling-to-floor and wall-to-wall panoramic windows. In total, the Eurodam will carry 1,022 double occupancy staterooms, with 86 percent outside staterooms of which 67 percent feature verandahs. Staterooms will continue to provide all the Signature of Excellence premium amenities: plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream beds, deluxe waffle/terry cloth robes, Egyptian cotton towels, flat panel TVs, DVD players, make-up mirrors with halo lighting, massage shower heads, professional grade hair dryers, fresh flowers and complimentary fruit baskets.
The Eurodam will continue several much-admired Holland America Line features, including outside-view, glass elevators at midship; the Pinnacle Grill and Pinnacle Bar; the innovative Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine Magazine, where culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and intimate classes in state-of-the-art onboard show kitchens; an expanded Greenhouse Spa and Salon with thermal suites and hydro-pool, the largest gymnasium ever built for Holland America Line; and a youth facility that includes the teens-only Loft.
On the technical side, the Eurodam will feature the latest state-of-the- art navigation and safety systems including dynamic positioning abilities to hold the ship in a precise position. The vessel will be powered by six diesel generators and propelled by the latest Azipod propulsion technology. The line has an option for a second Signature Class vessel which would be delivered in spring 2010.
In the 2006 Portrait of Affluent Travelers survey by Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell, Holland America Line topped the list of cruise lines sought after by affluent leisure travelers. Its recently completed $225 million fleetwide Signature of Excellence enhancements added features such as the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine -- a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes -- Explorations Café powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds. For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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Crystal Cruises Sets Menu of 2007 Wine & Food Festival Cruises
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 8-- As Crystal Cruises puts the final touches on its 11th Annual Wine & Food Festival, the award-winning luxury line is serving up the hot new details of its celebrity guest roster for the first half of 2007. In addition to celebrated chefs like Neal Fraser of California's Grace, Craig Higgins of Botswana's Mombo Camp Resort and the world-renowned and highly influential winemaker Christian Moueix, the festival features James Beard Award winners like A Voce's Andrew Carmellini and the legendary Andre Soltner, along with culinary-themed shoreside excursions. Food and wine journalists also join the 2007 program, including Bon Appetit's Editor-in-Chief Barbara Fairchild and broadcaster Carolyn O'Neil.
Given the growing fascination with the nuances of fine wine and food, the 2007 series aboard the elegant Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony features 11 diverse voyages of 10 to 17 days through the Panama Canal, Caribbean, South America, Africa & the Red Sea, Western Europe, the Mediterranean, and New England/Canada. During each cruise, A-list chefs are paired with the finest names in wine to host cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, share recipes and cooking tips, and prepare a four-course gala dinner spotlighting the signature cuisine of each guest chef. Complementing most itineraries is a mouth-watering collection of culinary-themed Crystal Adventures -- from an outdoor evening dining experience in the Dubai desert to lunch at the Michelin-starred Relais Chateau Saint-James in Bordeaux.
"It is both an honor and a privilege to have the most innovative and applauded names in cuisine and wine to work alongside our own accomplished chefs and sommeliers, and to provide our guests with enriching, exclusive experiences," says Toni Neumeister, vice president, food and beverage operations. "Crystal's guests want to learn from experts in their fields. The caliber of talent we continue to draw year after year speaks to our commitment to the culinary arts and the highly rated execution of the program."
The following culinary voyages are on the menu for the first half of 2007:
Jan. 12 South America cruise -- Miami to Valparaiso (Crystal Serenity)
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Lisa Zimmerman, wine journalist for Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast.
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Loretta Barrett Oden, Native American chef and food historian and host of PBS series Seasoned With Spirit: A Native Cook's Journey (first series focusing on Native American food).
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Optional excursions: Wine tastings at the Tamaya Vineyard in Coquimbo, known for its unique blends of wine stocks as Viognier, Sangiovese and Carmenere; and the Casablanca Valley in Valparaiso, the Napa Valley of Chile.
Feb. 11 Bon Appetit Culinary Cruise -- Miami to Los Angeles (Crystal Symphony)
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Andrew Carmellini, executive chef and a 2005 James Beard Award winner, and Olivier Flosse, wine director/sommelier -- both of A Voce, New York City.
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Neal Fraser, executive chef/owner, and Eduardo Carreiro, wine director -- both of GRACE, Los Angeles, named one of "LA's 25 Best Restaurants" by Conde Nast Traveler.
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Bon Appetit Editor-In-Chief Barbara Fairchild and Managing Editor Laurie Buckle. Food historian and award-winning author, Betty Fussell.
Mar. 3 Africa -- Cape Town to Dubai (Crystal Serenity)
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Craig Higgins -- executive chef of the acclaimed Mombo Camp Resort in Botswana -- a regular Conde Nast Traveler award recipient -- and author of An Elephant in the Kitchen.
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Dr. Fedon Lindbergh -- medical doctor/bestselling food writer, emphasizing the benefits of Mediterranean diets.
Apr. 19 Western Europe -- Rome to London (Crystal Serenity)
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Christian Moueix, owner of Dominus Estate and general manager of the mythic Chateau Petrus, in addition to managing numerous chateaus in Bordeaux.
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Carolyn O'Neil, three-time James Beard Award-winning broadcast food journalist, registered dietician, and frequent guest on NBC "Weekend Today" and The Food Network.
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Optional excursions: Wine tastings at the Cotes du Rhone vineyards in Marseilles, Millesima wine merchant, St-Emilion & Pomerol in Bordeaux and in northern Portugal sampling its famous Vinho Verde; also lunch at Relais Chateau Saint-James in Bordeaux, the Michelin-awarded restaurant designed by famed French architect Jean Nouvel.
May 17 Africa & The Red Sea -- Dubai to Rome (Crystal Serenity)
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Andre Soltner, former owner/chef, Lutece, New York City, and a James Beard Award winner
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Stephen Mack, director, Hong Kong Wine School
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Janice Wald Henderson, prolific American food and travel writer
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Optional excursions: An outdoor evening dining experience in Dubai; wine tasting, olive oil sampling and Italian cooking lesson in the heart of Roman wine country; and a journey to the medieval city of Orvieto to sample its famed Orvieto Classico.
For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Offer 17 Alaska Voyages in 2007
FT. LAUDERDALE, Nov 7, 2006 - Regent Seven Seas Cruises will offer 17 opportunities to explore the pristine, palatial wilderness of Alaska in 2007 aboard its newly refurbished 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner. From the soaring snow-covered peaks of the Denali to diamond-blue icebergs floating on glassy bays, the added luxury of an all-balcony vessel allows guests to come face-to-face with some of the world's most stunning scenery, even from the comfort and privacy of their own suites, and all while enjoying the personalized and gracious service of The Regent Experience.
The Seven Seas Mariner, after completing refurbishments and upgrades this winter, offers 16 one-way, seven-night itineraries between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska (or reverse), beginning May 23 with the final trip of the season departing September 5, 2007. Alaskan ports of call include Seward (for Anchorage), Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Tracy Arm and Ketchikan. The season kicks off with a special 11-night cruise departing May 12 from San Francisco, calling on Astoria, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; Prince Rupert and Seymour Narrows, British Columbia; Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Sitka in Alaska; and ending in Vancouver on May 23. Regent also offers a variety of exciting pre- and post-cruise land adventures ranging from fly-fishing in Anchorage to a wildlife hiking excursion in Denali
This winter, the Seven Seas Mariner will complete a multi-million dollar refurbishment of her private guest accommodations and public areas. Suites are being re-designed to reflect Regent's rich tradition of world-class hospitality - from exquisite down comforters to pure Egyptian cotton percale Anichini linens. Guests will also enjoy technology upgrades including flat screen TVs, faster wireless Internet access and iPod® players with Bose® speakers in butler suites.
All fares include shipboard gratuities, all non-alcoholic beverages and select liquor and wines. Select sailings also include free economy class air or an air credit of $500 per guest.(subject to availability). Families may enjoy the added value of Club Mariner, Regent's complimentary youth program, available on most Alaskan cruises, and a "Kids Sail Free" special on five cruises from May through July. Select sailings also feature an onboard lecture program with naturalists from famed ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society, while Cousteau himself will be on board the September 12 sailing from Seward, Alaska to Osaka, Japan.
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Carnival Celebrates Veterans Day With Special Promotion
for Military Personnel
MIAMI, Nov 7, 2006 In honor of Veterans Day, Carnival Cruise Lines has launched a special promotion for military personnel, which runs throughout the month of November. In addition to specially reduced rates for themselves, military personnel can book an additional two staterooms for family and friends at the same exclusive pricing. The promotion is being offered on a wide variety of cruises departing between now and March 31, 2007. Reservations must be made by November 30, 2006, to take advantage of this special offer.
Carnival routinely offers exclusive pricing for military personnel but during the month of November were extending our special fares for this very special group to their family and friends, as well, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
Under the promotion, three, four and five-day cruises to the Bahamas, Caribbean or Mexico start as low as $179 per person and seven-day Caribbean cruises start as low as $349 per person. The promotion is available on select ships and departure dates and starting prices vary. Proof of eligibility is required to reserve staterooms under this program. Military personnel must sail on the voyage for their family and friends to receive the promotional fares.
Carnival currently has three new ships on order - the 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom, scheduled for delivery in March 2007, the 112,000-ton Carnival Splendor slated to enter service in spring 2008, and an as-yet-unnamed 130,000-ton SuperLiner - to be the largest "Fun Ship" ever constructed - set to debut in fall 2009.
For additional information and reservations on Carnivals November military promotion, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com. Reservations under this promotion must be booked using fare code CPM1 for the first stateroom and CPM3 for the second and third staterooms.
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Travel Luggage-Free with Windstars Monogram Luggage Service
Seattle, WA, Nov 7, 2006 Travel like royalty. No more schlepping bags, checking bags or claiming bags. Beginning October 23, 2006, guests sailing with Windstar Cruises may opt to travel luggage-free to the ship with the new Monogram Luggage Service.
Our guests today are busy people who want to relax and enjoy their cruise vacation, says Diane Moore, Windstars vice president of marketing and sales. Our new luggage service is one more way we can help make their entire trip enjoyable. Its a better use of the guests time, and theres no need to stand in long lines to check luggage.
The increase in luggage hassles at the airportstrict weight rules, security checks, and now the restriction on carrying liquidshas been an impetus for Windstar to offer another option for travelers. Guests may now opt for luggage-free travel and have their bags picked up at their door and delivered to their stateroom on the ship, wherever it may be. Luggage is picked up at home, no boxing or extra packaging required, and shipped via an air valet service. At the end of the cruise, luggage may be shipped back home.
Windstar has chosen the luggage express service offered by Universal Express, a courier company based in Boca Raton, Florida. Charges are assessed by weight, destination, and type of service. For example, it will cost $257 to ship a 45-pound suitcase from Florida to Barbados. All bags are insured up to $1,000 at no extra cost with options to insure up to $10,000. Guests may book the luggage service on Windstars website. Details are available online at www.windstarcruises.com. Click on the Monogram Valet Luggage Service link.
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Grand Ole Opry Cruise to Sail January 21-January 28, 2007
NASHVILLE, Tenn. Country music fans will have the opportunity early next year to enjoy a cruise with four members of the Grand Ole Opry when Bill Anderson, Little Jimmy Dickens, Lorrie Morgan, and Riders In The Sky set sail on the Grand Ole Opry Cruise Jan. 21-28, 2007. Eddie Stubbs, 650 WSM-AMs award-winning on-air personality, will also be aboard. Departing from Los Angeles, California, passengers aboard Carnivals ship Pride will visit three ports of call on the Mexican Riviera: Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas. Vacationers will experience the diverse itinerary of a seven-night, eight-day cruise with exclusive Opry fun including private shows by the country music entertainers plus a private cocktail party and an Opry member question-and-answer session. A full casino, deck activities, dancing, first-run movies, and gourmet dining are also included.
Prices for the Grand Ole Opry cruise begin at $1,109 per person based on double occupancy. For more information or to book a cruise, contact Corporate Travel Service Inc. toll free at (866) 653-OPRY (6779). Airfare and taxes are not included. The Grand Ole Opry® is presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. Opry performances are held every weekend of the year, and the Tuesday Night Opry continues through Dec. 19.
About the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn. A uniquely American experience for 80 years, the Opry can be heard on 650 WSM-AM and www.opry.com. The syndicated weekly program, Americas Grand Ole Opry Weekend, airs on more than 200 country radio stations across the country and on the Armed Forces Radio Network, and Grand Ole Opry Live airs each weekend on Great American Country (GAC).
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Pamela C. Conover Named Seabourn President, CEO
MIAMI, Nov 6, 2006----Respected cruise industry executive Pamela C. Conover has been named president and chief executive officer of Seabourn Cruise Line, the Miami-based, ultra luxury brand owned by Carnival Corporation & plc . In her new role, she will report to Carnival vice chairman Howard Frank. Conover, who was assigned as acting president of Seabourn after the company's late president Deborah L. Natansohn suffered a heart attack on October 22, was most recently senior vice president of shared services at Carnival Corporation, where, among other duties, her market research and strategic analysis resulted in an order for two new ships for Seabourn.
"I am extremely gratified to be offered the helm at Seabourn at this exciting juncture," said Conover. "Seabourn's two new, state-of-the-art ships will represent the next evolution of the ultra luxury segment, and except for the tragic circumstances I couldn't be happier about returning."
Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc, said, "Pam brings a wealth of experience to Seabourn and I am confident that she will continue Debbie Natansohn's record of making Seabourn the best luxury brand in the cruise industry."
Conover has a previous operating history with the Seabourn brand, having been president and chief operating officer of Cunard Line Limited, which operated the fleets of both Seabourn and Cunard, from 2001 until the two brands were de-merged in 2004. In that role, she oversaw the building and launch of Cunard's Queen Mary 2 and the strategic restructuring and re-branding of Seabourn's three-ship fleet. According to Frank, "Pam has consistently delivered for us in a number of executive roles. Her experience at expanding a luxury brand and her skilled advocacy of customers, employees and travel agency partners ensures the success of Seabourn's plan for growth in the luxury segment."
The role at Seabourn is Conover's third cruise line presidency. In 1994, she served as president and chief executive officer of Epirotiki Line, based in Athens, Greece, until she was recruited to join Carnival Corporation as vice president of strategic planning. At Carnival, she engineered the acquisition of assets including Seabourn, Cunard and Costa Cruises as a part of the corporate development strategy of the largest and most successful cruise vacation group in the world. As general manager of North American shipping finance division of Citibank, Conover played a vital role in the development of the North American cruise business through her efforts in assisting Carnival companies and a number of other cruise lines with financing fleet expansion. Her first exposure to the sea came when her family lived in Thailand, her birthplace. Conover's father worked for a British trading company there and she was brought up seeing, and sometimes visiting, all kinds of vessels from around the world. Later her family moved to Albury, a small village southwest of London, where she was educated. Conover lives in Key Biscayne, Florida, with her husband, Ray Lutz, himself a former travel industry executive.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils New Land Adventures for
2007 European Sailings
FT. LAUDERDALE, Nov 2, 2006 - Regent Seven Seas Cruises announces 13 new and enhanced pre- and post-cruise land programs for European sailings in 2007. Available as add-on extensions to voyages throughout Europe, a total of 20 Concierge Collection land adventures provide guests opportunities to discover both highlights and hidden treasures of select ports of call, and are specially designed for individuals or small groups.
New land programs in 2007 include:
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"A Country Home in the Cotswolds" (London) - Explore the quintessential English countryside, including a two-night stay at one of Britain's finest country house hotels, exploration in the Roman city of Bath, and a visit to an 18th century Palladian manor.
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"The Aegean by Gullet" (Istanbul) - For a unique change of pace from a six-star luxury vessel, guests may experience the Aegean shoreline from a traditional wooden gullet. Includes a three-night stay aboard the gullet and in Istanbul as well as a city tour.
"Sights and Sounds of Seville" - From a junior suite at Cortijo Soto del Real, a palacio built by an Arabian prince, guests explore the beautiful city of Seville during this three-night stay, including a sampling of local cuisine and world-famous sherry as well as an Andalusian horse viewing.
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"Slow Food: Step Away from the Microwave" (Turin) - A three-night getaway including a visit to the small town of Bra in the Italian region of Piedmont, where the "Slow Food" movement was founded. Guests will gain an understanding of the movement, which promotes food and wine culture, and savor food made from scratch with fresh ingredients and produce, learn about local wines and enjoy accommodations at the Bernini Bristol Rome and Albergo dell' Agenzia Pollenzo.
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"Neapolitan Magnifico" (Rome) - A discovery of Campania, the birthplace of pizza, spaghetti, and buffalo mozzarella, including an exploration of the Archaeological Museum of Naples to see treasures unearthed following the eruption of Vesuvius, and visit to the ruins at Pompeii. Guests will also enjoy two days on the AmalfiCoast, with a stop at the "Italian Versailles," and a massage in the spa town of Fiuggi.
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"¡Experiencia Madrid!" (Barcelona) - Visit Madrid, one of Europe's most vibrant capital cities, and enjoy three nights at the Palacio del Retiro, located in the famous museum triangle between Thyssen, Prado and Reina Sofia.
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"The CrystalKingdom" (Stockholm) - VisitKalmarCastle in "The Kingdom of Crystal," and tour the blowing rooms of world-renowned crystal companies Orrefors, Kosta and Boda.
Additional new land programs are also available in the Swedish Lake District (via Stockholm) and Tuscany, while existing programs in Dublin and Moscow have been enhanced. Other highly popular programs from 2006 to return in 2007 include:
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"Venice Simplon-Orient Express" (Venice) - Featuring accommodations aboard the world's most celebrated train en route to London, as well as overnight stays at the Savoy Hotel London and Hotel Bauer Venice (select sailings only).
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"Agatha Christie's Egypt" (Cairo from Athens) - Grand tour of Egypt featuring the Great Pyramids and King Tut's tomb.
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"The Da Vinci Code" (Paris) - Two-night luxury hotel stay including a tour of the Louvre, pointing out real life highlights of the best-selling novel and movie.
"European Capitals" - Exclusive three-night programs with leading luxury and landmark hotels in key destinations throughout Europe.
All land adventures must be pre-booked through a travel professional or Regent's reservations center. For further information, contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334. For brochures, call toll-free (866) 284-4079; for reservation information call toll-free (800) 285-1835; or visit: www.theregentexperience.com.
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Carnival Cruise Lines to Operate San Diego's First Year-Round Cruise Program
MIAMI, Nov. 2 -- Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise operator, will launch San Diego's first year-round cruise schedule with four- and five-day Baja Mexico voyages aboard the 2,052-passenger "Fun Ship" Elation beginning in June 2007. On this program -- the only one of its kind from Southern California -- the Elation will depart Thursdays on four-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, on a rotating schedule.
Short cruises are the fastest growing segment of the cruise industry and Carnival pioneered the four- and five-day schedule which fits in perfectly with today's busy lifestyles. Four-day cruises operating Thursday to Monday provide the ideal "long weekend getaway" while five-day voyages offer a comprehensive, multi-port cruise experience all in less than a week's time.
The Elation will offer 78 voyages annually from San Diego and join the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit which has operated seasonal eight-day Mexican Riviera voyages from San Diego since 2004. With the Elation and Carnival Spirit, Carnival is expected to carry more than 230,000 passengers annually from San Diego -- the most of any cruise operator. Additionally, with the deployment of the Elation, Carnival will be the largest cruise operator on the West Coast and the only cruise line to base three ships year-round in Southern California, with the Paradise and Carnival Pride offering year-round three- to seven-day voyages from Long Beach, Calif.
"The Elation's new four- and five-day cruises from San Diego add a whole new dimension to West Coast cruising. Not only is the port within a day's drive of millions of residents within the western U.S., San Diego offers a variety of convenient air options with the airport just minutes away from the cruise terminal," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
New Four- and Five-Day Cruises from San Diego
Beginning June 2, 2007, the 70,000-ton Elation will launch the first year- round cruise program from San Diego encompassing four- and five-day cruises to ports in Baja Mexico. Four-day cruises feature Cabo San Lucas, one of Mexico's most popular seaside destinations highlighted by its distinctive rock formations, lush landscape and aqua-blue waters popular with snorkelers and scuba divers the world over. Five-day cruises add a stop in Ensenada, located along Mexico's Baja Peninsula and offering gorgeous beaches, a waterfront promenade, and its most famous attraction, the "La Bufadora" geyser.
Prior to the start-up of this program, the Elation will operate a special six-day Mexico cruise departing San Diego May 27, 2007. Featured ports on this one-time voyage include Cabo San Lucas, La Paz and Ensenada, each offering magnificent white-sand beaches, diverse cultures, and interesting sites and historical attractions.
Special 15-Day Panama Canal Cruise
The Elation will also sail on a special 15-day Panama Canal cruise departing Port Canaveral, Fla., May 12 and arriving San Diego May 27, 2007. It will mark Carnival's first Panama Canal cruise since 2004. In addition to the unforgettable transit of the Panama Canal, the Elation will visit the Caribbean island of Aruba followed by calls at Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Acapulco, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Numerous shore excursion opportunities, including watersports such as kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as myriad golfing and eco-tourism opportunities, will be available during this voyage.
The Elation, which currently operates four- and five-day cruises from Port Canaveral, will continue that program through May 12, 2007, then embark on its Panama Canal cruise. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com.
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Princess Passengers Can Re-live Their Vacation through Music with New "Tropical Escapes" CD Collection
SANTA CLARITA, CA, Nov 2, 2006 - A new musical escape featuring the passionate and exhilarating sounds of the Caribbean, South America and the South Pacific debuts this month aboard Princess ships. "Tropical Escapes," a compact disc that captures the spirit of these exotic locales, is the first of a series of themed CDs that will be offered for sale in shipboard boutiques throughout the fleet. The disc, produced exclusively for Princess Cruises, features the work of world-renowned artists such as Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley and Tito Puente, in addition to respected regional musicians. Listeners will recognize favorites such as "Oye Como Va" and "Little Grass Shack" among the diverse selections featuring a range of styles and unique instruments, including reggae beats, Latin jazz, steel drums and even the ukulele.
"We wanted this CD to offer passengers an enjoyable way to take a bit of their vacation home with them," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "These songs will take listeners back to the wonderful times they've had in these sun-soaked parts of the world, and may even inspire them to pack their bags again."
The songs featured on the disc include: "Wonderful World, Beautiful People" by Jimmy Cliff, "So Nice (Summer Samba)" by Bebel Gilberto, "Segura Ele" by Andy Narell, "Corner Stone (Patchworks Remix)" by Bob Marley, "Watermelon Man" by Mongo Santamaria, "O Barquinho (My Little Boat)" by Karrin Allyson, "You Can Get It If You Really Want" by Desmond Dekker, "Little Grass Shack" by Ohta-San, "Evil Ways" by Cal Tjader & Carmen McRae, "Jamaica Farewell" by Alfred St. John's Trinidad & Tobago Steelband, "Oye Como Va" by Tito Puente and "Mas Que Nada" by Salomé de Bahia. "Tropical Escapes" will retail for $14.95, and can be found in special colorful displays in the duty-free boutiques aboard Princess ships.
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Cruise Industry Reports Double-Digit Growth in Second Quarter 2006
NEW YORK, Nov 2, 2006 - Consumer demand for cruise vacations continued unabated in the second quarter of 2006 with 2.97 million passengers carried, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). This was an increase of 11.67 percent over the same period from one year ago, when 2.66 million people took a cruise vacation. Of the total 2.97 million guests carried, 2.5 million were guests sourced from North America and 466,000 originated from international source markets.
The 2006 second-quarter passenger figures are new statistics released by CLIA, whose 20 member lines represent nearly 98 percent of the cruise capacity marketed in North America. In addition to the growing passenger totals, CLIA cruise lines also posted a collective 103.2 percent occupancy factor in the second quarter of 2006 compared with 99 percent for the same period in 2005. For the first six months of 2006, CLIA's member-line fleets carried 5.76 million guests, an 8.73 percent increase over the 5.3 million guests carried during the same period in 2005. North American guests for the period totaled 4.94 million, up 4.52 percent over the 4.73 million carried during the first six months of 2005.
CLIA's second-quarter passenger carrying report also found:
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Itineraries of 1 to 5 days accounted for a 34.2 percent share of the cruise market; itineraries of 6 to 8 days accounted for 53.2 percent; 9- to 17-day itineraries accounted for 12 percent; and itineraries of 18 days or longer accounted for 0.6 percent of the market.
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The average length of a cruise in the first two quarters was 6.81 days versus 6.78 days for the same period in 2005.
"All indicators point to another stellar year for the cruise industry. The conviction CLIA cruise lines have in the future may best be illustrated in the $14.7 billion that they are investing in 25 new ships through 2010," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "The cruise industry's attention to shipboard innovation, service and value has not gone unnoticed by the traveling public--a fact that is clearly evidenced in the significant increase in guests choosing to cruise from year to year."
To learn more about cruise vacations, consumers should seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Confirms Contracts with Aker Yards for New Third Generation Freestyle Cruising Ships
Miami Nov 1, 2006 -- NCL Corporation Ltd. announced that it has confirmed the contracts with Aker Yards S.A. of France to build two new third generation Freestyle Cruising cruise ships, with an option for a third, by lifting all subjects in the contracts, including financing, completion of the design specification, and Star Cruises shareholder approval. The vessels will be delivered from Aker Yards in Saint Nazaire, France in 2009 and 2010, with the optional third sister ship for delivery in the first quarter of 2011. The ships, totaling 12,600 berths, will be built for the companys Norwegian Cruise Line brand (NCL) and will each be approximately 150,000 Gross Tons and 4,200 passenger berths. The contract price for each of the first two ships is 735 million, and for the optional third ship is 700 million.
Commenting on the confirmation of the contracts, NCLs President and CEO Colin Veitch said, With the confirmation of the contracts with Aker Yards, we are one step closer to our vision of introducing the new third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships and to satisfying our goal of having the youngest, most modern fleet in the industry by 2010.
With the project name F3, the new ships will incorporate a world of new features and will represent NCLs third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, a further evolution of NCLs progressive dismantling of the structure, regimentation, and constraints of the traditional cruise experience. Details of the ships design will be released closer to delivery. The cabin mix will be the richest of any NCL ship to date, and will include the feature that 100% of outside staterooms will have private balconies. In total, the ship will have 1,415 balcony staterooms and suites.
NCLs unique Freestyle Cruising offers vacationers a less structured, more relaxed, more resort-style experience than traditional cruising. It is characterized, in particular, by having no fixed dining times, no formal dress codes, up to ten different restaurants and even more lounges, bars, theatres and other entertainment and activity options. The new ship design will offer 60% more passenger space than the largest ships built so far by NCL, and will use that space to introduce a major leap forward in the flexibility and variety of the cruise experience, entirely in keeping with the Freestyle Cruising philosophy already established.
The unique use of space on these new ships is designed for optimal cost efficiency per capacity day, as well as being highly attractive in terms of cabin revenue mix and onboard revenue generation. The design is a unique blend of cruise industry best practice, offering both an exciting, high quality product, and a space efficient, cost efficient framework in which to deliver that product. NCL is on target to have the youngest fleet in the industry by 2010, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea. For further information, please contact NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 327-7030; visit NCLs website at www.ncl.com.
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Carnival's Fun Ship Cruises: The Ideal Holiday Getaway
MIAMI, Nov 1, 2006) Getting away together as a family during the holidays and eschewing the pressures of entertaining at home is fast becoming a major trend among consumers with cruise vacations an extremely popular choice for these family holiday getaways. Carnival, the world's largest cruise line, will operate all 21 of its Fun Ships on holiday cruises this year, offering a variety of three- to eight-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico departing from 11 North American homeports.
Our Fun Ship holiday cruises with elaborate decorations, fun-filled activities and traditional entertainment and cuisine offer a convenient, affordable and hassle-free alternative for families to reconnect and spend some quality time together during this festive season. Many families, in fact, have made Fun Ship cruising part of their holiday tradition, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.
A holiday mood is set the minute guests step on board, as the ships atrium and promenade areas are adorned with colorful Christmas trees, garland, wreaths and mistletoe, along with signage proclaiming traditional holiday greetings. The spirit of the season continues with an elaborate holiday-themed revue with sets that evoke a home away from home atmosphere complete with a faux oversized fireplace, large comfortable sofas and a Christmas tree with decorations created by the kids from the Camp Carnival program. Kids also have an opportunity to showcase their artistic talents, performing a dance routine with the ships entertainers. Santa Claus, of course, also makes an appearance, bringing along a sack full of toys which are distributed to all children on board. A parade of crew members representing dozens of different nationalities on board closes the popular show.
One of the great aspects of spending the holidays at sea is the bountiful array of delicious food and no cooking! Holiday menus include the traditional oven roasted turkey with all the trimmings and freshly baked pecan pie, among many other selections. With music such an important part of the season, traditional holiday selections are available within Carnivals in-stateroom music system and incorporated into the live entertainment presented by the cruise director and entertainment staff. Caroling is also popular with guests and crew strolling throughout the ship singing classic and contemporary holiday songs.
Other featured events include readings of traditional holiday stories such as Twas the Night Before Christmas by the ships staff, while popular holiday-themed movies such as The Polar Express are shown on the in-cabin televisions. Carnivals Fun Ships are known for their festive shipboard ambiance and the lines New Years cruises offer one of the biggest celebrations at sea. Highlighting the festivities is the traditional countdown by hundreds of Fun Ship revelers who enjoy complimentary noisemakers, party favors and champagne for ringing in the New Year. In addition to providing a lifetime of memories, Fun Ship cruising during the holidays is one of the most affordable vacations around. For additional information and reservations on Carnivals Fun Ship holiday cruises, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com
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