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| Cruise Ship Comparison Chart |
| Ship Id | Cruise Line | Ship | Weight | Length | Passenger Capacity | First Year | Pools | Restaurants | Basketball Court | Miniature Golf | Bowling Alley |
| 5 | Carnival | Conquest | 110000 tons | 952 ft | 2974 | 2002 | 4 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 6 | Carnival | Elation | 70367 tons | 855 ft | 2628 | 1998 | 3 | 3 | N | Y | N |
| 7 | Carnival | Glory | 110000 tons | 952 ft | 2974 | 2003 | 4 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 8 | Carnival | Paradise | 70390 tons | 859 ft | 2600 | 1998 | 3 | 3 | N | Y | N |
| 9 | Carnival | Splendor | 113300 tons | 952 ft | 3006 | 2008 | 4 | 3 | Y | Y | N |
| 12 | Celebrity Cruises | Century | 71545 tons | 815 ft | 2150 | 1995 | 3 | 2 | N | Y | N |
| 16 | Crystal | Serenity | 68000 tons | 820 ft | 1080 | 2003 | 2 | 6 | Y | Y | N |
| 15 | Crystal | Symphony | 51044 tons | 781 ft | 940 | 1995 | 2 | 2 | N | N | N |
| 13 | Disney | Magic | 83000 tons | 964 ft | 2400 | 1998 | 3 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 14 | Disney | Wonder | 83000 tons | 964 ft | 2400 | 1999 | 3 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 19 | Holland America | Rotterdam | 59652 tons | 778 ft | 1316 | 1997 | 2 | 2 | N | N | N |
| 20 | Holland America | Veendam | 55541 tons | 720 ft | 1258 | 1996 | 2 | 2 | N | N | N |
| 21 | NCL | Dawn | 92250 tons | 965 ft | 2224 | 2002 | 2 | 8 | Y | N | N |
| 3 | NCL | Gem | 93502 tons | 965 ft | 2466 | 2007 | 2 | 12 | Y | N | Y |
| 22 | NCL | Jade | 93558 tons | 965 ft | 2224 | 2006 | 4 | 12 | Y | N | N |
| 23 | NCL | Pride of America | 81000 tons | 921 ft | 2146 | 2000 | 2 | 11 | Y | N | N |
| 24 | NCL | Spirit | 77000 tons | 879 ft | 1996 | 1998 | 2 | 11 | Y | N | N |
| 2 | NCL | Star | 91740 tons | 965 ft | 2240 | 2001 | 2 | 8 | Y | N | N |
| 1 | NCL | Sun | 78309 tons | 848 ft | 2400 | 2001 | 2 | 8 | Y | N | N |
| 11 | Princess Cruises | Golden Princess | 109000 tons | 951 ft | 2600 | 2001 | 4 | 4 | N | Y | N |
| 10 | Princess Cruises | Grand Princess | 109000 tons | 951 ft | 2600 | 1998 | 4 | 4 | N | Y | N |
| 4 | Royal Caribbean | Freedom of the Seas | 160000 tons | 1112 ft | 3634 | 2006 | 3 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 18 | Royal Caribbean | Independence of the Seas | 154407 tons | 1112 ft | 4370 | 2008 | 3 | 4 | Y | Y | N |
| 17 | Royal Caribbean | Majesty of the Seas | 73941 tons | 880 ft | 2744 | 1992 | 2 | 4 | Y | N | N |
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Carnival Dream Sea Trials Complete
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, July 02, 2009 - 02:01 PM
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The 130,000-ton Carnival Dream, Carnival Cruise Lines’ largest ship, is shown here conducting sea trials in the Adriatic Sea in preparation for its Sept. 21 debut from Europe.
Currently under construction by the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, near Trieste, the 3,646-passenger vessel had a full contingent of officers, technicians and engineers on board who thoroughly tested the Carnival Dream’s sophisticated navigation and mechanical systems. Following sea trials, Carnival Dream returned to Monfalcone, where it will undergo final interior outfitting.
Carnival Dream will usher in an exciting new era of “Fun Ship” cruising and offer a host of innovations, including Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor café and entertainment venue, cantilevered whirlpools that extend out over the ship’s sides, and a variety of accommodation categories, including cove balconies that are closer to the water line and five-berth, two-bathroom staterooms that will be ideal for families.
Carnival Dream is scheduled to enter service in Europe Sept. 21 operating a series of Mediterranean cruises before repositioning to New York for eight-day cruises Nov. 15 and 23. The ship will operate a special nine-day cruise from Port Canaveral Dec. 3 then launch year-round seven-day Caribbean cruises from that port Dec. 12.
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Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Construction Begins
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, July 02, 2009 - 02:00 PM
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Today a ceremony to mark the keel laying of Cunard Line's new Queen Elizabeth was held at the Monfalcone shipyard of Fincantieri near Trieste, Italy. The second largest Cunarder ever built, Queen Elizabeth's keel is the third Cunard has lain in the space of seven years. When she enters service in October 2010, she will join Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria as not only the most famous ocean liners in the world but also the youngest fleet in passenger travel.
The keel laying involves the placement in the dry dock of the first section of the ship's hull. This section is made up of six pre-manufactured blocks, weighs 364 tons and is fitted with 104 tons of pipes, cables, insulation and other equipment.
The ceremony followed an intensive period of design and development. Fifty-three sections will be used in the construction of Queen Elizabeth and she will take to the water for the first time at her float out in December.
"We are delighted to be back here among our friends at Fincantieri so soon after we took delivery of Queen Victoria in 2007-the first Cunarder to be built in Italy-and I am sure that Queen Elizabeth will be just as popular and successful as her two sister ships," said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. "We at Cunard are always impressed by the commitment and enthusiasm of everyone at Fincantieri, and we look forward to the next year-and-a half of working closely with them on this ship, which will be nurtured by their skill and vision and built into a vessel equal in stature to the other great Cunard liners," she added.
Paolo Capobianco, director of Fincantieri Shipyard, said, "Our company is the heir to the Italian shipbuilding industry and the world leader in cruise ship construction and believes, as Cunard does, in the possibility and the need of actively matching tradition and innovation. Building a new liner for Cunard is a special achievement for Fincantieri and takes us right to our roots, fostering both our determination to build once again a passenger ship of high technological content and unmistakable style, reflecting the best of the industry and tailored to the needs and requirements of the ship owner."
Queen Elizabeth will feature the unique Cunard traditions linking her with her sisters Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria and their predecessors, together with all the modern day luxuries Cunard's guests have come to expect and some exciting features that will give the vessel her own style and personality.
Named after the first Queen Elizabeth, one of Cunard's greatest ships, the new Queen Elizabeth will reflect her predecessor in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist. From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at an experience that differentiates a Cunard liner from a modern-day cruise ship. This will be most evident in the ship's adherence to liner traditions, with elegant double and triple height public rooms on a grand scale, luxuriously endowed with rich wood panelling, intricate mosaics, gleaming chandeliers and cool marbles. Art Deco features will pay homage to the original Queen Elizabeth and will allow the new ship to reflect a more civilized era of travel.
Furthermore, in addition to the extensive Cunard entertainment programme on board, Queen Elizabeth will offer some unique strands inspired by the era of the first Queen Elizabeth, such as country house parties at sea, evening piano sing-a-longs and period dancing, from traditional ballroom to the jitterbug and the jive, all within the setting of this 21st century ship.
As successor to Queen Elizabeth 2, the ship will also reflect this great liner through artworks and memorabilia and its very own "Yacht Club."
Queen Elizabeth will also pay homage to the links that Cunard has enjoyed with royalty and the maritime world over the years with photography, memorabilia and exhibits.
Queen Elizabeth will depart on her Maiden Voyage on 12 October 2010-a voyage which sold out in a record-breaking 29 minutes 14 seconds in April 2009. This 13-night celebration will leave from Cunard's home port of Southampton and will call at Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Seville (Cadiz), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Tenerife (Santa Cruze de Tenerife), La Palma (Santa Cruz de la Palma) and Madeira (Funchal).
Her Maiden Season will run from October 2010 to January 2011 and include voyages to the Western and Central Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Fares start from just $1,195 per person for the five-night 26 November 2010 Gallic Debut voyage with ports of call at Amsterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre; while the 13-night Iberian Discovery voyage departing 1 December 1020 features fares from $2,395 per person, with ports of call at Vigo, Lisbon, Seville, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma and Madeira.
The world's newest ocean liner will depart Southampton on 5 January 2011 on her 103-night epic Maiden World Voyage, which has just been released for sale. This will see her make 35 maiden calls, including Cunard's first call ever at Port Denarau (Fiji). In total, Queen Elizabeth will call at 38 ports in 24 countries as she makes her way west around the globe, with maiden transits of both the Panama and Suez Canals and calls at Los Angeles, Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai and Lisbon. Queen Elizabeth will be in great company as her sisters will be present on several occasions during the voyage: she will sail in tandem to New York with Queen Victoria before all three Queens will meet for a Cunard Royal Rendezvous in New York on 13 January 2011; and then she meets with Queen Mary 2 in Sydney and Civitavecchia and Queen Victoria again in Aruba. Full World Voyage fares aboard Queen Elizabeth start from $19,995; Queen Elizabeth's Segment World Voyage fares start from $2,545. Fares are based per person, double occupancy.
For more information and to book a voyage aboard the new Queen Elizabeth, consult your travel professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to www.cunard.com.
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Celebrity Equinox Features
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, July 01, 2009 - 07:21 PM
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When Celebrity Cruises' newest Solstice-class ship, the 2,850-guest Celebrity Equinox, sets sail for the first time this summer, her sleek exterior and critically acclaimed interior design won’t be the only features raising eyebrows among cruise and travel enthusiasts. Playing off the success of the launch of her sister ship, Celebrity Solstice, the newest vessel in Celebrity's fleet will also offer AquaClass staterooms designed to offer a soothing, spa-focused ambiance, as well as several indulgent new offerings in the onboard spa.
Celebrity's AquaClass veranda staterooms, introduced as a Solstice-class exclusive feature last year, are located in close proximity to the ships’ two-story spa, known as "AquaSpa by Elemis." AquaClass is the only stateroom category in Celebrity's fleet that offers no third and fourth guest berthing, making the area quieter and more exclusive for guests wishing to relax in an utterly serene environment.
Guests in Celebrity's AquaClass enjoy a host of spa-inspired amenities and perks. These include unlimited access to the AquaSpa’s Persian Garden aromatherapy steam room, featuring heated ceramic loungers, and the Relaxation Room, which offers stunning vistas from comfortable loungers and a peaceful ambiance. AquaClass guests also enjoy unlimited, complimentary access to the ship’s exclusive, “clean-cuisine” and Mediterranean-influenced specialty restaurant, Blu. The dinner menu features savory appetizers along the lines of roasted beet salad with goat cheese; Mediterranean chopped salad with pita chips and pomegranate vinaigrette; and entrees including blackened ahi tuna, pan-seared filet mignon, and herb-crusted rack of lamb; Blu is also open for breakfast, exclusively for AquaClass and suite guests.
AquaClass guests enjoy in-stateroom amenities that include a pillow menu featuring Swedish Isotonic, body and hypo-allergenic pillows; carafes of unsweetened iced tea; soothing, calming lavender oil in a reed diffuser; and a five-jet shower by Hansgrohe, designed to invigorate and relax. AquaClass guests on Celebrity Solstice have been enjoying the convenience of accessing free, exclusive, on-demand video programming that introduces them to wellness-themed activities such as meditation, yoga, etc., in the comfort of their stateroom. AquaClass will comprise 130 of the ship's 1,426 staterooms. A full 85 percent of all staterooms on Celebrity Equinox will have verandas, and all staterooms will be equipped with flat-screen TVs, smarter storage and closet space, spacious bathrooms, and plush European bedding. The ship will offer wireless Internet access throughout.
All guests on Celebrity Equinox are welcome to treat themselves to indulge in the ship’s AquaSpa by Elemis, which will offer its standard line-up of revitalizing, restorative experiences for individuals and couples. Renowned for its exotic therapies focused on beauty and wellness, Celebrity's AquaSpa – offering full service on all ships except the 92-guest mega-yacht, Celebrity Xpedition, which offers limited options – will offer new treatments on Celebrity Equinox, including an opulent, restorative new treatment: "24-Karat Gold Facial." The treatment, which uses an alchemy of expert touch, medicinal plants, Rose Quartz and a pure 24-karat gold leaf mask, speeds up cell renewal and results in a rebalanced, nourished, brighter and more clarified skin texture and complexion. The new ship will offer "red carpet make-up" application after every facial in its line-up, featuring a natural touch of Colorscience mineral powder and lip gloss to keep skin and lips glowing.
Guests who experience the 24-Karat Gold Facial on Celebrity Equinox will also be able to enjoy a special cocktail inspired by the treatment itself. The "Golden Kiss Martini" will feature Golden Supreme vodka, cucumber juice, agave syrup and lemon juice, muddled with fresh mint.
Celebrity Equinox will also offer a "lash and brow bar," where guests can add glamour to their look by selecting from a variety of eyelash enhancements, offered in three styles: Natural Lashes, Evening Eyes or Ultra Glam, which features a sparkling touch of glitter. Brow sculpting will be offered by expert aestheticians who carefully shape and define the eyebrows to give the face an instant lift and a polished appearance. Brow tinting, which can cover gray hairs or enhance one’s natural look, will be available in various shades. Lash tinting, ideal for guests whose eyelashes are light in color, will also be available. Celebrity Equinox's AquaSpa will offer a full slate of massages, wraps, couples treatments, rituals and facials. The ship also offers men’s barber services, including traditional barber shaves.
Celebrity also presents a comprehensive slate of "medi-spa" offerings onboard. As the first cruise line to offer onboard acupuncture, Celebrity will continue to offer this popular treatment on Celebrity Equinox, in a space located within the AquaSpa. Celebrity Equinox will also offer BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments, which soften fine lines and wrinkles to result in a more youthful appearance; Restylane and Perlane treatments, Elemis Oxydermy facials and teeth whitening.
A full-service fitness center, located in the AquaSpa area of the ship, will offer guests the option to exercise on state-of-the-art equipment at their own pace or participate in group fitness classes. An outdoor walking/jogging track gives guests the opportunity to take in the sea air while staying healthy. Celebrity also offers guests the option to purchase personal training services onboard. The 122,000-gross-registered-tons Celebrity Equinox is scheduled to enter service July 31 from Southampton, England, on an eight-night cruise through the majestic Norwegian Fjords, followed by a series of romantic Mediterranean sailings from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, beginning August 8.
Like Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Equinox will present guests with brand-defining, industry-first features, including a half-acre Lawn Club with real, growing grass; a glassblowing show and studio developed and presented in collaboration with The Corning Museum of Glass; 10 unrivaled dining venues, and widely varied entertainment, including shows with breathtaking aerial acts. Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale vacation experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and South America. Noted for four of the top 10 "Top Cruise Ships in the World" in the large-ship category, as voted by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (February 2009 readers’ poll), Celebrity's fleet – including the new Celebrity Solstice – will be joined by Celebrity Equinox this year, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011, and a fifth in 2012. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111.
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Windstar Cruises Signature Collection Host Series 2010 Listing
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 - 10:56 AM
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Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most sought-after destinations, announces its 2010 Signature Collection Host Series which offers guests the unique opportunity to cruise with distinguished experts in the culinary arts, wine, photography and writing.
Hosts in 2010 include: top chocolate artisan Fran Bigelow of Fran’s Chocolates; renowned winemakers Jay Schuppert of Cuvaison Estate Wines and Eric Dunham of Dunham Cellars; San Francisco area restaurateur, author, national radio and television personality, Narsai David; photographer Roger Paperno and author Joe Wolff of the popular travel books “Café Life”; acclaimed restaurateurs Chef Don Curtiss and Michelle Quisenberry of Seattle’s Volterra Restaurant; and Chef Keith Luce of celebrated Northwest restaurant The Herbfarm.
Jay Schuppert – President of Cuvaison Estate Wines
Schuppert, president of Cuvaison Estate Wines, hosts Wind Surf’s Lisbon to Barcelona sailing which departs April 4, 2010, and visits the ports of Tangier, Morocco; Málaga, Spain; Alicante, Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Valencia, Spain. Cuvaison’s winery is situated on the historic Silverado Train in Northern Napa Valley and is known for its award-wining wines. Prior to Cuvaison, Schuppert was with Kendall Jackson, San Francisco-based Southern Wine and Spirits Distributors and was Executive Chef of the Crystal Palace Restaurant in Aspen, Colo. Today, Schuppert leads the premium winery to record profits and global presence. Cuvaison wines are distributed throughout the United States, in 40 international markets, first class airlines and top-rated cruise lines. Schuppert will lecture on wine and conduct wine tastings during the voyage. Cruise fares start from $2,399 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Cuvaison Estate Wines, visit www.cuvaison.com.
Narsai David – San Francisco Restaurateur, Television and Radio Personality
Culinary expert David hosts Wind Star’s Barcelona to Rome sailing departing May 1, 2010. Ports of call include Mahón, Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Alghero, Italy; Porto-Vecchio, France; and Portoferraio, Italy. One of California’s leading gourmets, David is a national television and radio personality, as well as Macy’s Culinary Expert and shares the simple pleasures of cooking, food and wine through education. David launched Narsai’s Restaurant, Market and Catering businesses which quickly became a culinary mecca for traveling gourmets. He hosted the nationally syndicated PBS television series “Over Easy” and was a food columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle. David now broadcasts his secrets of gourmet cooking as the Food and Wine Editor at San Francisco’s KCBS radio and oversees the management and new product development of his line of specialty food products. David will entertain guests with a lecture and cooking demonstration on his culinary arts. Cruise fares from $2,399 per person, double occupancy. For more on David, visit www.narsai.com.
Fran Bigelow – Founder and Owner of Fran’s Chocolates
Bigelow will host Wind Surf’s Rome to Venice sailing departing May 2, 2010, visiting Capri, Italy; Taormina, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Hvar, Croatia. Bigelow is considered one of the best chocolatiers in the country and has been credited for sparking the artisan chocolate renaissance in America. Fran’s Chocolates offers a selection of luxurious chocolate confections and signature truffles created with the finest, all-natural, local and organic ingredients handmade daily in small batches with refined techniques. Bigelow’s cookbook “Pure Chocolate” won a “Best Chocolate Cookbook in the United States” award from Gourmand World Cookbook Awards and was a James Beard Foundation Cookbook Award finalist. Further accolades include “Ten Best Cookbooks of 2004” by Food & Wine magazine and the “Best Dessert Cookbook” by People magazine. Bigelow will discuss how she creates extraordinary chocolates and will conduct chocolate tastings. Cruise fares from $2,599 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Fran’s Chocolates, visit www.franschocolates.com.
Keith Luce – Executive Chef of The Herbfarm
Executive Chef Luce of The Herbfarm, the Pacific Northwest’s only AAA Five Diamond restaurant, will host Wind Surf’s Rome to Venice sailing departing June 6, 2010. Ports of call include Capri, Italy; Taormina, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Hvar, Croatia. Luce trained at the New York’s Rainbow Room, Le Cirque and La Côte Basque as well as top Michelin-starred restaurants in France and Italy. He also served as Sous Chef in the White House during Clinton’s first administration and Opening Chef of Spruce in Chicago. Luce went on to work as Executive Chef at Five Diamond Relais & Châteaux Little Nell in Aspen and later opened San Francisco’s acclaimed Merenda. His accolades include America’s “Top 10 Chefs” from Food & Wine magazine and “Rising Star Chef of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation. Luce will speak on culinary techniques and provide cooking demonstrations. Cruise fares start from $2,749 per person, double occupancy. For more information on The Herbfarm, visit www.theherbfarm.com.
Eric Dunham – Winemaker for Dunham Cellars
Winemaker Dunham of Dunham Cellars will host Wind Surf’s Rome to Venice sailing departing July 25, 2010. Ports of call include Capri, Italy; Taormina, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Hvar, Croatia. Dunham trained in all phases of winemaking through an internship with Hogue Cellars and served as assistant winemaker at the prestigious L’Ecole No. 41 winery under the tutelage of Marty Clubb. Dunham handcrafted small lots of premium Cabernet Sauvignon under the Dunham Cellars name achieving prestigious awards including a Gold Medal and a 93 rating at the World Wine Championship. In the Spring of 1999, Dunham and his family opened the winery in a converted WWII airplane hanger at Walla Walla’s Regional Airport. Dunham Cellars was “2008 Pacific Northwest Winery of the Year” and their wines have received accolades from The Wall Street Journal, Wine Enthusiast and Food & Wine magazine. Dunham will discuss the wine making process and conduct wine tastings. Cruise fares from $2,749 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Dunham Cellars, visit www.dunhamcellars.com.
Chef Don Curtiss and Michelle Quisenberry – Owners of Volterra Restaurant
Chef Curtiss and Quisenberry will host Wind Surf’s September 5, 2010, Rome to Venice sailing which visits Capri, Italy; Taormina, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Hvar, Croatia. Curtiss was formally trained in classic French cuisine and taught at the Sofitel French Culinary school. He led the helm at Miami’s Le Café Royale before becoming Executive Chef of Café des Artes on Ocean Drive. Curtiss’ Northwest culinary adventure began in 1992 holding Executive Chef positions at Al Boccalino, Assaggio, Prego Ristorante as well as Chef Partner at II Fornaio. He and wife, Quisenberry, own Volterra, named after the Tuscan hilltop where the couple married. The restaurant features seasonal Tuscan specialties showcasing Curtiss’ innovative style including all natural, organic meats and poultry as well as house made pastas. Volterra has received international acclaim and numerous awards including Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence,” and Zagat’s “America’s Top Restaurants.” Guests will discover Tuscan cooking with Curtiss and Quisenberry. Cruise fares from $2,749 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Volterra, visit www.volterrarestaurant.com.
Photographer Roger Paperno and Author Joe Wolff of the Café Life Book Series
Photographer Roger Paperno and author Joe Wolff host Wind Surf’s October 17, 2010, Venice to Venice sailing which visits ports of Rovinj, Croatia; Opatija, Croatia; Trogir, Croatia; and Dubrovnik, Croatia. The duo produced the popular travel series “Café Life Rome”, “Café Life Florence” and “Café Life Venice.” The books profile family-owned cafes and bars in Italy featuring photos, interviews and history. In addition to the book series, Paperno has done photography for numerous clients including The Gap, Banana Republic and Saturn Cars. Over the last 25 years, Wolff has written advertising and marketing pieces for a variety of businesses. Paperno and Wolff will share their experiences about working on the book as well as traveling, photography and writing. Cruise rates start from $2,599 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Paperno and Wolff, visit www.rogerpaperno.com and www.joe-wolff.com.
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Holland America Veendam Lanai Staterooms
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, June 29, 2009 - 09:13 PM
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Holland America Line’s latest Signature of Excellence innovation has received rave reviews by guests on ms Veendam. Similar in size to the premium line’s spacious outside-view staterooms, the new, unique lanai accommodations were recently added to the ship and feature large sliding glass doors with direct access to the Lower Promenade wrap-around teak walking deck. Lanai staterooms will be added to ms Rotterdam this year and three other ships by 2013.
“We are very pleased with the lanai staterooms and the enthusiastic response from our guests,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “They have a nice layout and direct deck access and enhanced views are a major benefit.
“On the Statendam-class ships we have fewer verandah options than on our Vista or Signature ships,” added Meadows. “So lanai staterooms offer a great value with outside deck access.”
The addition of 38 lanai staterooms on Veendam are a key feature in the latest round of Signature of Excellence enhancements at Holland America Line. Thirty-two new verandah staterooms also were built on the aft portion of the ship, along with eight new inside staterooms. All staterooms aboard Veendam received new décor, modern wall sconces, carpeting, drapes, pillows and bed runners and resurfaced desks and vanities. Bathrooms saw an “extreme” makeover with new vanities and cabinetry.
Each lanai stateroom also features reserved deck chairs outside sliding glass doors that have a one-way mirrored coating to ensure privacy.
A final stateroom enhancement was the creation of 15 spa staterooms — 12 outside converted to verandah in drydock and three other inside — featuring a variety of exclusive spa amenities. The rooms offer their own ambiance with a décor reflecting natural elements and soft earth-tones. A counter-top water feature in each stateroom provides a natural, ambient background sound and artwork reflects serene images in nature. Exclusive spa treatments and a spa room service menu are offered only in these staterooms.
Completion in Two Phases on Five Ships
Except for Veendam, completed at the end of April 2009, and Rotterdam, to be completed in December 2009, stateroom enhancements will be completed in two phases. First, in a series of drydocks in 2010 and 2011, Maasdam, Statendam and Ryndam will receive stateroom upgrades. The second series of drydocks in 2012 and 2013 will add lanai staterooms and new accommodations on the aft portion of the ships, as well as forward verandah and spa staterooms.
Veendam’s capacity increased to 1,350 as a result of the stateroom additions. Guest capacity on Rotterdam will be 1,404. Capacity on Statendam, Maasdam and Ryndam will increase to 1,350 during future drydocks.
This next phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line’s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. Additional highlights include the resort pool feature called The Retreat, the Showroom at Sea and the new Mix, three specialty lounges midship. Completing projects will be the addition of Canaletto, Holland America Line’s popular and complimentary casual Italian restaurant, introduced on ms Eurodam in summer 2008. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.
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NCL Pride of America Hawaii Cruises from $829
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, June 29, 2009 - 10:27 AM
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Travelers can declare their vacation independence this summer with a Freestyle Cruising experience aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America, the only U.S.-flagged ship to offer seven-day Hawai'i inter-island cruises to all four main islands. With more than 100 hours of port time, guests have the opportunity to explore active volcanoes, lush canyons and endless beaches.
Pride of America sails seven-day Hawai'i inter-Island cruises year-round, departing every Saturday round-trip from Honolulu with overnight stops in Kahului, Maui and Nãwiliwili, Kaua'i; and a day in Kona, Hawai'i. Cruises are from $829 per person, based on double occupancy.
Brad Huffines of Huntsville, Alabama, who recently sailed on Pride of America with his wife and three-year old son, remarked on what a wonderful experience they had.
"Our cruise was incredible. It was easily the friendliest and most responsive cruise line staff I have ever experienced. This is a cruise everyone should put on the top of their travel to do lists," said Huffines. "I recommend Pride of America to any and everyone as it easily matched the best cruse experience we have ever had. Perfect ship, perfect staff and perfect ports of call."
Pride of America features the innovative attributes of Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising with a star spangled line up of eight culinary options, dynamic public rooms such as the Hollywood Theater, the expansive Rascal's Kids Center and the luxurious Santa Fe Spa & Fitness Center. The heart of the ship, the Capitol Atrium, is inspired by the Capitol Building and White House and features a decorative stone floor, impressive water feature and a stunning backlit glass dome.
The cornerstone of Freestyle Cruising is Norwegian's Freestyle Dining program, especially convenient for families with small children who like to eat early or even families with older children who can appreciate the flexibility of open seating and variety of restaurants. In addition, Pride of America offers seven lounges and bars including the Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge the ship's nightclub, the Napa Wine Bar, Pink's Champagne & Cigar Bar, John Adams Coffee Bar, Gold Rush Pub and the outdoor pool bars Ocean Drive Bar, Key West Bar & Grill and the Waikiki Bar.
Pride of America offers an extensive choice of cabins highlighted by an expansive Grand Suite, a broad range of family accommodations with more than 250 staterooms that interconnect, more than 660 balcony staterooms, as well as Family Suites, accommodating up to eight people.
The ship features the latest in relaxation and fitness facilities with the Santa Fe Spa and Fitness Center. The spa is a tranquil area making use of natural elements such as stone and wood and offers an exotic menu of spa and beauty treatments combining the best of East and West. The spa also features invigorating saunas and a steam room and a relaxation area. The fitness center boasts state-of-the-art exercise equipment and cardiovascular machines, each with their own flat screen TV, an aerobics room offering high/low impact aerobics, yoga, power walking and spinning classes.
The Sports Deck includes a basketball and volleyball court. The large South Beach sunning and swimming area is inspired by Miami's Art Deco district and features some novel distractions including a gyroscope and bungee trampoline, and activities capturing the energy and fun of Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road.
The ship is particularly family-friendly and features the Rascal's Kids Center and Kid's Pool, a supervised facility for children designed around a theme of native animals of America. Norwegian's Kid's Crew program in Hawai`i features a plethora of supervised activities for youths aged 2-17. While parents take advantage of Norwegian's on-board amenities such as spa facilities, casinos, or a cozy dinner, the children are enjoying games, parties, scavenger hunts, pajama parties and much more.
To help travelers sample the colorful culture and see the dramatic scenery in each port of call, Norwegian offers an extensive Shore Excursion program including more than 125 tours and activities. In O'ahu on the famous Waikiki Beach, guests can "hang loose" and watch surfers vie for the perfect wave in the shadow of the majestic Diamond Head. On "the Magic Isle" also known as Maui, guests can discover whale-filled seas, relax on heavenly beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or play golf on world-class greens. The spirit and energy of creation surround Hawai'i's Big Island Hilo where guests can have the opportunity to see flowing, red lava and even walk on cooled lava on the Kilauea Lava Viewing Adventure. The island of discovery known as Kaua'i has a lush, rural feel and a laid-back lifestyle. On Kaua'i, guests should not miss the Tubing the Ditch Expedition which offers guests an exclusive experience on private lands tubing historic waterways along the tropical flumes and ditches of the old Lihue Plantation, which were engineered and hand dug in 1912. The cruise also features a sail by Kaua'i's rugged and breathtaking Na Pali Coast.
For more information or to book a sailing on Pride of America, call a travel professional, go to ncl.com or contact Norwegian at 866-234-7350.
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Seabourn Odyssey Unleashed
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Friday, June 26, 2009 - 03:43 PM
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The Yachts of Seabourn embarks today upon an expansive future as Seabourn Odyssey launches from Venice as the first ultra-luxury vessel to debut in six years. The 32,000-ton vessel built by T. Mariotti of Genoa, Italy, accommodates 450 guests in 225 luxury suites, ninety percent with verandas, offering one of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry with highly personalized service. Odyssey features the largest spa on any luxury yacht, four restaurants and a host of luxury amenities. Guests of the maiden voyage will also share the unprecedented honor of acting as godparents.
Odyssey is the first of three new vessels Seabourn is building, a 216% increase in capacity for the line, with Seabourn Sojournlaunching in June 2010 and a third new-build in 2011.
“It is with great pleasure that I welcome Seabourn Odyssey to our distinguished fleet of yachts,” said Pamela Conover, President and CEO of The Yachts of Seabourn. “The launch of Odyssey allows us to serve more travelers but still offer the intimate and exclusive experience which has made us a leader in the luxury cruising market.”
Enticements are everywhere aboard Odyssey. The Spa at Seabourn is the largest spa on any luxury vessel at 11,400 square feet and is the only cruise vessel to offer SkinCeuticals, the award-winning skincare line, products and treatments at sea. Passengers can enjoy a hydropool, Kinesis wall, two herbal steam rooms as well as two Spa Villas complete with a whirlpool big enough for two, a private balcony for sunbathing, a double daybed and a full living room.
Passengers on Odyssey will savor five-star, all-inclusive dining in four restaurants from the fine-dining Restaurant with menus crafted by Charlie Palmer to the casual, open-air Patio Grill or choose course-by-course dining from the comfort of their suite.
With an intimate yacht-like atmosphere, passengers can choose from other highlights including 11 decks harboring two outdoor swimming pools, six outdoor whirlpools, water sports from the unique marina, and a private diamond showroom. The Retreat features a contoured nine-hole mini golf course, a giant chess board, shuffleboard and stargazing in the evening. Additional amenities include Seabourn-branded netbooks and iPods for loan as well as complimentary pool-side massages and signature ‘Caviar in the Surf’ service.
The Grand Wintergarden Suite, the largest of any Seabourn suite, offers 1,182 square feet of indoor space plus two verandas. The two bedroom, two bathroom suite features a glass-enclosed solarium with tub and daybed, as well as a whirlpool, dining for six, two bars and three flat-screen televisions.
All guests on Odyssey receive exceptional personalized service with nearly one staff member per guest and top-of-the-line amenities including the new Molton Brown Therapies skincare line, available for the first time at sea.
A new feature of Odyssey, Seabourn Square, is an innovative “concierge lounge” with a library, upscale shops, outdoor terrace and coffee bar, as well as concierges in a relaxed, club-like atmosphere.
Odyssey will spend her maiden year exploring the Mediterranean throughout the summer and early fall, then sailing the Caribbean before embarking on Seabourn’s first world cruise, a 108-day voyage departing January 5, 2010, visiting 42 ports in 26 countries on six continents from Ft. Lauderdale to Athens.
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Carnival Dream Cruise Ship Performs Sea Trials in the Adriatic Sea
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Friday, June 26, 2009 - 12:20 PM
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The largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed, Carnival Dream is carrying a full complement of technicians and engineers during her sea trials and these highly skilled individuals are putting the 130,000-ton cruise ship through a variety of exercises to check the engines and other machinery on board.
Set to debut in Europe Sept. 21, Carnival Dream will offer a host of innovative features and facilities, ushering in an exciting new era in “Fun Ship” cruising.
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MSC Cruises $400 Stateroom Credit Promotion
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Friday, June 26, 2009 - 10:12 AM
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Guests who book MSC Yacht Club accommodations on a 2009 summer Mediterranean sailing with MSC Cruises by Aug. 31, 2009 will receive a shipboard credit of $400 per stateroom.
Guests receive the $400 shipboard credit when they book MSC Yacht Club accommodations on select MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida 7-night Mediterranean sailings scheduled now through Sept. 6.
MSC Yacht Club is a haven of exclusive private suites and luxurious amenities introduced on the line's new flagship, MSC Fantasia, and also featured on sister-ship MSC Splendida, which debuts on July 12. The 99 suites of the MSC Yacht Club are located on the prestigious upper foredecks, offering guests breathtaking views from their own private balconies or full-height panoramic windows.
In a review of top-tier accommodations on cruise ships, CruiseCritic.com recently ranked the MSC Yacht Club suites among "the best suites at sea." That high rating is no surprise to anyone who has experienced the MSC Yacht Club's extraordinary combination of all the comfort, service and privacy of a personal yacht and the privileged access to the state-of-the-art sports facilities, first-class shopping, dining, gaming and entertainment found on MSC Cruises' magnificent new flagships.
Each suite is served by a highly trained butler, offering guests everything from daily newspaper to room and valet services, priority bookings for shore excursions, spa packages, front-row seats for evening performances in the ship's spectacular theater, restaurant reservations, and private shopping visits. MSC Yacht Club guests also enjoy their own Concierge service, complimentary beverages, private swimming pool, bar and lounge and library as well as special access to the Balinese services at the Aurea Spa center.
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Carnival’s West Coast Cruises Starting at $43 Per Day
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 25, 2009 - 01:59 PM
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With Carnival Cruise Lines’ ships returning to Mexico earlier this month, the line is currently offering some exceptionally attractive rates on its shorter itineraries departing from Long Beach and San Diego.
Early Saver rates starting from only $169 per person are available on three- and four-day mid-week voyages aboard the Carnival Elation from San Diego, as well as four-day voyages on the Carnival Paradise from Long Beach.
Early Saver rates are available up to three months prior to sailing date for cruises of five days or less and up to five months prior to sailing date for longer length voyages. The special fares include all stateroom types, including suites, and come with a rate protection feature if rates later drop below what the consumer originally paid.
Attractive rates are also available on Carnival Elation’s new four-day weekend and five-day cruises that begin next month featuring extended visits to the beautiful Mexican resort town of Cabo San Lucas. Unique to this program is the five-day itinerary departing Saturdays that features two full days in Cabo San Lucas.
Carnival’s West Coast shorter cruise options include:
* Three- and four-day Baja cruises aboard the Carnival Paradise year-round from Long Beach, providing a fun getaway at an excellent value. Three-day cruises departing Fridays call at Ensenada, while four-day voyages departing Mondays visit Ensenada and Catalina Island. Early Saver rates start at $219 per person for three-day cruises and $169 per person for four-day cruises.
* Three-, four- and five-day Baja or Cabo sailings on the Carnival Elation year-round from San Diego. Three-day cruises departing Fridays visit Ensenada. Four-day cruises departing Mondays call at Ensenada and Catalina Island, while four-day weekend cruises depart Thursdays and feature Cabo San Lucas. Five-day cruises departing Saturdays offer two full days in Cabo San Lucas, while five-day cruises departing Mondays stop at Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada. Early Saver rates start at $169 per person for three-day and four-day mid-week cruises; $259 per person for four-day weekend cruises; and $299 per person for five-day cruises.
Rates are based on double occupancy, reflect category 4 (interior) accommodations for select fall sailings and are subject to change without notice.
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Oasis Of The Seas 24 Dining Options
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 25, 2009 - 01:44 PM
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Launching in December 2009, Oasis of the Seas will set the stage for Royal Caribbean International's culinary innovations. The world's most revolutionary cruise ship will offer guests more variety and flexibility than ever before, thanks to 24 distinct dining experiences, ranging from an exclusive signature restaurant, to neighborhood-specific themed venues and new twists on the global brand's traditions.
"Oasis of the Seas showcases the evolution of Royal Caribbean dining," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Both the new concepts and the established Royal Caribbean offerings found throughout the neighborhoods are designed to meet contemporary dining standards, cater to individual preferences and schedules and foster epicurean curiosity. With so many options, guests could choose a new place to dine for every meal."
Fleetwide, Royal Caribbean strives to deliver the best dining experience possible by continuously developing innovative programs and upholding the highest culinary standards. As guests expectations continue to rise, the global cruise line introduces new elements of variety and flexibility, such as My Time Dining and My Family Time Dining. In addition, Royal Caribbean trains and certifies all culinary chefs through the American Culinary Federation's accredited education program and implements U.S. training standards of safe alcohol service.
From breakfast to late night snacks, guest's onboard Oasis of the Seas can find an extensive variety of food and beverage offerings, available at no extra charge, that will satisfy any craving, providing more options for breakfast, lunch and dinner than Royal Caribbean guests have ever had before. For additional convenience, dinner reservations can be made in advance through new features on www.royalcaribbean.com starting July 7, 2009. Let the culinary festival begin with the following highlights of the food and beverage offerings onboard Oasis of the Seas:
Central Park
# 150 Central Park - The most exclusive dining venue on Oasis of the Seas, 150 Central Park will provide an intimate dining experience that will combine leading-edge cuisine with modern design, creating a trendy upscale ambiance. Signature features will include a tasting menu with customized wine pairings. Open for dinner; $35 cover charge.
# Giovanni's Table - This Tuscan countryside influenced trattoria will be a more-accessible, casual Italian restaurant featuring both indoor and al fresco seating. Giovanni's Table will offer rustic dishes with a contemporary flair, including toasted herbal breads, pizzas, salads, pastas, Italian sandwiches, braised meat dishes and stews, all served family-style. Open for lunch and dinner; $10 lunch and $15 dinner cover charge.
# Park Café - A casual dining choice providing a high level of variety and flexibility, Park Café will be an indoor/outdoor gourmet market with walk-up counters. From freshly prepared salads and madeto- order sandwiches, to paninis, crepes and hearty soups, guests will order directly from the chefs behind food stations. European pastries, sublime chocolates and decadent fudge will round out the offerings. Open for breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner and late night treats.
# Vintages - Always a popular hot spot for Royal Caribbean guests on Voyager- and Freedom-class ships, the Vintages wine bar will evolve into a larger space on Oasis of the Seas. Great for a pre-dinner rendezvous, Vintages will provide a selection of cheeses and a broad tapas menu to accompany a robust selection of fine wines, from a tropical white Riesling to a mocha-inflected Merlot. Open for lunch and dinner; á la carte pricing.
# Chops Grille - Continuing the tradition, Royal Caribbean's popular signature steakhouse will offer premium cut, quality meats. Guests can choose to enjoy the upscale, contemporary setting indoors with views of Central Park or al fresco. Open for dinner; $25 cover charge.
Boardwalk
# Seafood Shack - The indoor/outdoor casual family restaurant will bring the surf style of beach side amusement parks to the Boardwalk, serving a variety of seafood, as well an extensive beverage menu of non-alcoholic cocktails and over-sized desserts. Open for lunch and dinner; $7.95 lunch and $9.95 dinner cover charge.
# Boardwalk Bar - The main bar in the Boardwalk will offer on-the-go snacks and a variety of prepackaged sandwiches, fruit and salads. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
# Donut Shop - Guests can stop into the classically styled shop for a casual snack any time of day. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
# Ice Cream Parlor - The 1950's styled ice cream venue will display classic sundaes and a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings to choose from and then mixed-to-order on a frozen slab. Open throughout the day; á la carte pricing.
# Johnny Rockets - Extending the signature "eat-ertainment" hours, a diner breakfast menu will be introduced. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; $3.95 breakfast and $4.95 lunch and dinner cover charge.
The Royal Promenade
# Mondo Cafe - This new addition to the Royal Promenade will feature coffee, sandwiches and pastries native to countries such as Italy, Spain and Cuba. Steps from Boleros and open around the clock, it is sure to be popular after an evening on the dance floor. Open for breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner and late night treats.
# Sorrento's Pizzeria - The New York style pizzeria will feature a more extensive menu with madeto- order pizza pies and slices, in addition to the ready-made selections introduced with the Freedomclass ships. Open for lunch, dinner and late night snacks.
# Café Promenade - Located on the opposite end of the Royal Promenade from the Mondo Cafe, the popular café will continue serving Seattle's Best Coffee, fruit shakes, pastries and sandwiches throughout the day and night. Open 24 hours; á la carte pricing.
The Pool and Sports Zone
# Solarium Bistro - Located in the Solarium the contemporary bistro will offer health-conscious dining for breakfast and lunch in a casual setting. In the evenings, Solarium Bistro will transform into a romantic and intimate dining setting for specialty healthy-fare dinner and dancing under the stars. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; dinner has a $20 cover charge.
# The Wipe Out Café - The casual self-service buffet will offer a variety of options from pizza, hamburgers, sandwiches and fresh salads to quick snacks and desserts, for young cruisers on-the-go. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center
# The Vitality Café - Located at the entrance of the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, the Vitality Café will feature healthy snacks, sandwiches, wraps and fruit, in addition to refreshing juices and smoothies from the Vitality spa menu for the calorie conscious guest. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
New Twists on Fleet Fixtures
# Opus Dining Room - The three-level main dining room will revive the grandeur of the 1920s and feature French art deco design. Catering to guests' varying preferences, the newly introduced My Time Dining and My Family Time Dining, as well as the traditional main and late seating options will be offered. My Time Dining provides guests with the option to enjoy the dining room ambiance with Royal Caribbean's renowned Gold Anchor Service whenever they wish during dining hours. Guests choosing My Time Dining will not have a pre-assigned table, but will be seated in the ships main dining room and will order from the same traditional dinner menu. My Time Dining guests can make daily reservations for specific seating times or choose to walk in. My Family Time Dining accommodates parents and children by offering an expedited 40-minute dining service for young cruisers, ages 3-11. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
# Windjammer Marketplace - Offering the utmost flexibility for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this next generation of the brand staple will feature multiple islands, each serving a variety casual buffet fare.
# Izumi - The new Asian cuisine restaurant will feature a sushi bar and hot rock cooking, as well as other Asian fare in a more formal setting. Open for lunch and dinner; á la carte pricing.
# In-Stateroom Service - Guests wanting to enjoy a meal in the comfort of their staterooms will be able to choose from the complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, as well as the recently introduced Dine in Delights menu, which offers name-brand culinary options ranging from the Original Johnny Rockets hamburger to Ghirardelli Chocolate Cookies. Open 24 hours; á la carte pricing for Dine In Delights and $3.95 service charge for in-room deliveries between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
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Isaac Levy Sails Same Itinerary Once a Month for 14 Years on Carnival
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 25, 2009 - 09:27 AM
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Isaac Levy certainly knows a good thing when he sees it!
The 90-year-old resident of Redondo Beach, Calif., has been sailing on Carnival Cruise Lines’ four-day Baja Mexico itinerary once a month for the past 14 years, dating back to when the cruise ship Holiday first began the program from Southern California in 1995.
Aside from taking an annual break from Carnival cruising during the summer, Levy has sailed on nearly 100 four-day “Fun Ship” Baja cruises over the past 14 years, most recently on the 2,052-passenger Carnival Paradise which currently operates the program.
Levy (third from left) is pictured here with several members of the Carnival Paradise’s management team, including F&B Manager Ganesh Khalipe (far left); Guest Services Manager Kua Ngamkamolrat (second from left); Captain Vito Garuccio (third from right); Cruise Director Felipe Couto (second from right); and Housekeeping Manager Malgorzata Palucka.
Carnival Paradise sails year-round from Long Beach, Calif., offering four-day cruises departing Mondays to Ensenada and Catalina Island and three-day cruises departing Fridays to Ensenada.
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Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 2011 World CruisesOn Sale July 1
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, June 22, 2009 - 03:53 PM
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Cunard Line is proud to announce the latest chapter in its storied history: the 2011 World Voyages. In January 2011, the youngest luxury fleet at sea will see two of its regal ocean liners embark on global odysseys that together will visit 57 ports of call across 34 countries including a maiden World Voyage for the new Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Mary 2 travelling the globe via the intriguing east-west route of passage.
Each itinerary will offer a unique adventure – featuring overnights in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai on Queen Elizabeth, and Cape Town, Sydney and Hong Kong on Queen Mary 2 - combined with the line’s hallmarks of gourmet fine dining, impeccable White Star Service™ and a wide variety of elegant stateroom accommodation including the renowned and award-winning Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites.
Queen Elizabeth Maiden World Voyage
For her maiden World Voyage, Queen Elizabeth will offer a complete circumnavigation of the globe from her home port of Southampton, crossing the Atlantic en route to New York. Especially compelling for US and Canadian guests is the option of embarking on their World Voyage experience from New York, Fort Lauderdale or – after the ship transits the Panama Canal - Los Angeles.
From the west coast, Queen Elizabeth will continue her westward journey to the ever-popular city of Sydney (where she will stay overnight) via the South Pacific and New Zealand before heading to the exotic ports of Asia including Singapore, Bali, Vietnam and Thailand as well as another overnight stay in Hong Kong. Then the ship sails on to Malaysia and India before calling on Dubai (also an overnight stay), followed by a visit to Oman before transiting the Suez Canal and taking in some of the sites of Egypt, Greece, Italy and Portugal en-route back to Southampton. Here North American guests can rendezvous with the Queen Mary 2 and take in a legendary Transatlantic crossing to complete their 103-day circumnavigation of the globe. Full World Voyage fares start from $19,995 per person.
Segment voyages capture the essence of the World Voyage and aboard Queen Elizabeth range from 12 to 25-days, including New York to Los Angeles (16 days), Los Angeles to Sydney (23 days), Sydney to Singapore (25 days), Singapore to Dubai (12 days) and Dubai to Southampton (19 days). Guests can enjoy great value by combining two or more consecutive segments to create adventurous Liner Voyages. Segment fares start from $2,545 per person.
Queen Mary 2 World Voyage
Queen Mary 2 will begin her fourth World Voyage in New York and her second passage sailing on an east-west route around the globe. After a call in Fort Lauderdale, the ship will head to the Caribbean and South America, calling on Barbados, Brazil and Uruguay before arriving for an overnight stay in the magnificent city of Cape Town in South Africa, the ship’s second visit to this exceptionally beautiful metropolis. From there she will sail to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean before an exploration of Australia that culminates with an overnight stay in Sydney. The ship continues on to New Zealand and Guam before sampling some highlights of China and Japan en-route to an overnight stay in Hong Kong, followed by visits to Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand and India en-route to Dubai. From here, Queen Mary 2 will call in Egypt before making a transit of the Suez Canal that will take her to European calls in Italy, Monaco, Spain and the United Kingdom, her last call before ending her 103-day odyssey in New York. Full World Voyage fares start from $19,995 per person.
Segment voyages aboard Queen Mary 2 range from 15 to 25-days and include New York to Cape Town (23 days), Cape Town to Sydney (17 days), Sydney to Hong Kong (25 days), Hong Kong to Dubai (15 days) and Dubai to New York (23 days). Consecutive segments can be combined to experience adventurous Liner Voyages. Segment fares start from $3,245 per person.
Cunard is also pleased to offer guests the chance to enjoy the World Voyage experience using a combination of Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2. Embarking in New York, guests will be able to complete the first half of their World Voyage on Queen Elizabeth before transferring ships in Sydney and sailing back to New York on Queen Mary 2.
“Cunard’s World Voyages have been a highlight of our programmes since we introduced this travel adventure in 1922 and our two global journeys offer surprising value that is truly beyond expectation,” said Carol Marlow, president and managing director of Cunard Line.
Cunard Royal Rendenzvous
Exactly three years to the day after Cunard welcomed its trio of Queens in New York, this rare event is poised to take place again on January 13, 2011 when Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth call on New York for another spectacular Cunard Royal Rendezvous. Be among the few to experience this history-making day as you depart New York Harbour on one of the most famous ocean liners in the world.
Enhanced Benefits Programme
In addition to receiving a bonus 10% discount off Early Booking Fares (EBF), Full World Voyage and Liner Voyage guests will receive an onboard credit of up to $2,000 per stateroom when they book by February 28, 2010. In addition, Full World Voyage guests will receive complimentary Hotel and Dining Charges. New for 2011, guests in Inside and Outside category staterooms will receive an onboard credit of up to $1,000 per stateroom if they book by the same date. Cunard World Club members will receive an extra 5% savings off Bonus Early Booking Fares.
Additionally, all Full World Voyage Queens Grill and Princess Grill guests will be given a $400 shipboard credit per person to use towards shore excursions of their choice. All Liner Voyage Grill guests will be given a $200 shipboard credit to be applied the same.
Further, an invitation will be extended to all Full World Voyage guests to join Carol Marlow ashore at one of the ports of call during their time onboard for the traditional World Voyage Dinner, an evening of world-class dining and entertainment.
For more information and to book a 2011 Cunard World Voyage aboard Queen Mary 2 or Queen Elizabeth, consult your travel professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to Cunard.com.
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Carnival Splendor Resumes Seven-Day Mexican Riviera Cruises
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, June 22, 2009 - 12:28 PM
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The 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor departed the Port of Long Beach, Calif., yesterday on a seven-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera, marking the resumption of cruises to Mexico on Carnival’s newest and largest ship.
On this route, Carnival Splendor visits three of the Mexican Riviera’s most popular ports of call: Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, each of which is known for its excellent beaches and watersports, as well as outstanding shopping and dining opportunities.
The 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor began service from Long Beach in April of this year and operates weekly round-trip cruises departing every Sunday.
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Royal Princess Engine Fire Update
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 18, 2009 - 02:02 PM
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At approximately 8:10 pm local time, an engine room fire broke out aboard Royal Princess, as the ship was departing Port Said, Egypt.
Fire teams have been deployed, and passengers have been mustered to their emergency stations. The ship is currently anchored off the coast of Port Said.
All passengers and crew are accounted for. We will provide further information as it becomes available.
Royal Princess is carrying 733 passengers and 393 crew. The ship is on the fifth day of a 12-day Holy Land sailing between Civitavecchia and Athens.
Phone numbers have been established for inquiries from family of passengers and crew (only please) currently onboard Royal Princess:
For inquiries about family: 800-693-7222
For inquiries about crew members: 661-753-2804
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Norwegian Sky Refurbishment Complete
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 18, 2009 - 10:58 AM
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orwegian Cruise Line today announced that Norwegian Sky underwent a complete refurbishment focused on enhancing the guest experience while the 2,002-passenger ship was in dry dock last month in Freeport, Bahamas. The ship, which entered the Miami short cruise market approximately one year ago, received enhancements to its public areas, staterooms and suites, as well as the addition of three new staterooms.
"Norwegian Sky has been in high demand since we brought her to Miami to sail three and four-day Bahamas cruises last year; and therefore we wanted to give her a beautiful new look for the summer season and beyond," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "The ship is the perfect getaway as it offers great value for money for families, friends and couples alike looking to relax and escape the everyday."
Norwegian Sky's total refurbishment includes:
* reupholstering all 1,000 seats in the Stardust Theater;
* major updates to 14 suites which received new wallpaper; new marble tiles in the showers and tubs; and refinishing all wood work including the teak around the whirlpools on the suite balconies;
* improvements to Dazzles Bar and Nightclub, including refinishing of the dance floor; reupholstering of the club's chairs and bar stools and removal of banquette seating creating additional room on the dance floor;
* new upholstery to all of the seating in the Atrium;
* installation of new food stations in the Garden Café, Norwegian's signature action station restaurant, along with refurbishment of Il Adagio, the ship's Italian restaurant;
* the addition of three new staterooms; and
* repainting of the colorful murals surrounding the pool area.
Norwegian Sky's three and four-day Bahamas sailings departing from Miami are from $199 per person. Norwegian Sky departs Miami on Mondays sailing four-day Bahamas cruises with full-day stops in Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship sails a weekend getaway three-day Bahamas itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to Miami at 7 a.m. on Monday mornings.
Norwegian Sky has more than 240 balcony staterooms, a choice of six different restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, a luxurious spa, two pools, extensive children's facilities, a sports deck and a variety of spacious public rooms.
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Cunard's Queen Mary 2 New Services
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 - 06:25 PM
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In the year of celebrating Queen Mary 2's 5th Birthday, Cunard is delighted to announce that its five year partnership with Canyon Ranch-the award-winning spa, fitness and salon services provider aboard the line's flagship will go forward with strength and include new innovative treatments and services.
The partnership represents the teaming of two respected luxury brands which began with the design and build of the Canyon Ranch SpaClub aboard Queen Mary 2, back in 2004. It continues to be a powerful strategic alliance delivering incomparable spa services onboard the grandest ocean liner at sea as evidenced by numerous awards and honours including; Condé Nast Traveler "Top Spa" in 2007, TravelAge West WAVE Award for "Best Overall Spa Facility" in 2006 and 2007 and Spa Magazine & SpaFinder Readers Choice Award in 2008.
"Queen Mary 2 and Canyon Ranch are each distinctly unique and combined offer an unequalled experience at sea. Guest satisfaction scores are excellent and we are pleased that our association with Canyon Ranch delivers such exceptional benefits and world-class services to our guests," shared Carol Marlow, president and managing director, Cunard Line. "The Canyon Ranch experience is a perfect complement to our line's famed White Star Service," she added.
New treatments and services have now been introduced by Canyon Ranch onboard Queen Mary 2, including:
* Voya Seaweed Treatments: A true organic line of products, this seaweed is harvested in Ireland, freeze dried, and then re-hydrated into its organic state for use in body detoxification services.
* Detoxifying and Revitalizing Rituals: Based on the skin care practices of the traditional hammam bathhouse and utilizing Red Flower products, these Japanese-based rituals offer an intense therapeutic transformation for the whole body.
* Performance Orthotics service: Utilizing specialty equipment, our service providers will measure gait and foot force and fit guests with customized orthotic shoe inserts.
"Canyon Ranch is thrilled to be expanding its relationship with Cunard Line," stated Peter Smith, chief operating officer for Canyon Ranch. "We pride ourselves on delivering the highest level of service to our guests and look forward to continuing to introduce The Power of Possibility to guests onboard Queen Mary 2."
Queen Mary 2's Canyon Ranch SpaClub boasts 30 professionally trained associates expertly servicing 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art spa, salon and fitness facilities situated on two decks. The SpaClub offers 24 massage, body and skin care treatment rooms, a fitness centre with more than 50 pieces of cardio and weight-training equipment, and a relaxation room with wonderful views out to sea. Throughout the SpaClub, the Canyon Ranch experience incorporates unique water-based features, emphasizing the healing and therapeutic benefits of water and heat, including a 30 feet x 15 feet Thalasso-therapy Pool with airbed recliner lounges, neck fountains, a deluge waterfall, air tub and body massage jet benches. Adjacent to the pool is an extensive Thermal Suite featuring an herbal sauna, Finnish sauna, reflexology basins and an aromatic steam room.
Guests aboard Queen Mary 2 enjoy an array of rejuvenating spa treatments, including massages and therapeutic bodywork, mud, aromatherapy, ayurvedic and seaweed treatments, facials and masks, conditioning body scrubs and therapeutic body cocoons.
The ship's SpaClub also offers the exotic Rasul Ceremony, a Canyon Ranch signature treatment. This medicinal mud and steam therapy, which takes place in an ornately tiled steam chamber, is derived from an ancient Middle Eastern cleansing ritual.
The salon offers a full array of Canyon Ranch services including hair styling, nail care treatments and makeup styling and consultations.
In addition to the ship's extensive spa, salon and fitness facilities, Canyon Ranch certified instructors conduct daily group and private fitness, yoga and tai chi classes. These "healthy living experts" provide on-board lectures and workshops that address overall wellness topics such as lifestyle change, health and medical issues, stress management, smoking cessation, healthy aging and disease prevention.
Canyon Ranch chefs team with Cunard's Executive Chef Jean-Marie Zimmermann to design nutritious spa menu selections for Queen Mary 2 restaurants, prepared to Cunard's highest culinary standards.
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Rare Original Declaration of Independence Copy to Tour Princess Alaska Ships July 4th Week
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 - 06:25 PM
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A rare, original copy of the United States of America's founding document will make an exclusive appearance aboard Princess Cruises' Alaska-based ships the July 4th week, giving passengers the unique opportunity to see the only traveling copy of the Declaration of Independence -- just as the country celebrates Independence Day. The historic exhibit will be showcased aboard all Princess ships calling in Juneau between July 1-8, 2009.
Hosted in partnership with Declare Yourself, a non-profit organization founded by legendary television producer Norman Lear, this unique opportunity marks the first time a copy of the Declaration has visited Alaska, and the first time a cruise line has shown the famous document.
The Declaration will be on display aboard the vessels for about two hours while each ship is docked in Juneau. The document will be shown aboard Diamond Princess and Star Princess on July 1; Coral Princess on July 2; Island Princess on July 3; Pacific Princess and Golden Princess on July 6, and Sapphire Princess and Sea Princess on July 8.
"This is an amazing opportunity for our passengers to get a first-hand look at history, which is especially poignant at a time of year when our country celebrates its independence," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "It's a rare occasion when we can bring such a unique attraction right on board -- this document has never been shown on a cruise ship before. It will be a memorable way to mark the week of Independence Day as well as Alaska's 50th anniversary of statehood."
The only touring copy of the Declaration of Independence, Declare Yourself's historic document is one of an estimated 200 original broadside copies (about the size of a sheet of newspaper) printed by John Dunlap in Philadelphia in 1776 after it was drafted by Thomas Jefferson, to distribute across the colonies and to King George in England. This copy's current journey began in 1989 when a Pennsylvania shopper bought a frame at a flea market for $4.00. Later, while inspecting a tear in the back of the painting, he discovered a piece of paper wedged between the frame and painting. He pulled it out and uncovered what would soon be authenticated as the 25th remaining copy of the Declaration of Independence. The document changed hands several times and was purchased in 2000 by Lyn and Norman Lear for $8.14 million, with the goal of bringing the document directly to the American people.
Declare Yourself is a national nonpartisan, nonprofit campaign that was founded in 2003 to empower and encourage every eligible 18-year-old in America to register to vote. For more information about Declare Yourself, visit www.DeclareYourself.com.
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Norwegian Epic Crowned with Last Block
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 - 06:24 PM
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Norwegian Cruise Line announced that the last block, number 0898, in the construction of Norwegian Epic was lowered onto the vessel on Friday, June 5 at STX Europe in Saint-Nazaire, France. The block, which weighed 563 tons, equivalent to the weight of approximately 64 elephants, and measured 133 feet wide, 113 feet long and 63 feet high, was placed above the bridge on Deck 13 and took one hour to move onto the ship.
One of largest on the vessel, this block will house portions of The Villas, a private enclave of 60 exclusive suites located on Decks 16, 17 and 18. The radar mast will be added next which will complete Norwegian Epic's structure before her float out and transfer to the outfitting dock on July 11, 2009.
The 153,000-gross ton, 4,200-passenger ship is scheduled for delivery at the end of May 2010. For more information and renderings, visit epic.ncl.com. With the final block in place, Norwegian Epic is ready for her July 11 float out.
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Carnival Splendor Earns Perfect 100 Score on Most Recent U.S. Public Health Inspection
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 - 01:12 PM
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Carnival Cruise Lines’ 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, which launched year-round seven-day service from Long Beach, Calif., in April, received a perfect 100 score on its most recent inspection by the United States Public Health Service.
The largest ship in the Carnival fleet, the 3,006-passenger vessel received perfect marks on all 42 items that comprise the U.S. Public Health Service’s comprehensive Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) checklist.
The unannounced inspections, which are conducted twice a year and required for any cruise ship with an international itinerary calling at a U.S. port, evaluate vessels in a wide variety of areas, including adherence to proper food handling, preparation and storage procedures, and overall galley cleanliness. Ships’ potable water supplies used in spas and pools are evaluated, as well.
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Holland America 2010 World Cruise Overland Adventures in South America, India and Far East Cruises
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 - 09:13 PM
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Holland America Line is offering exciting new World Cruise tours and Overland Adventure tours in some of the world’s most exotic locations: South America, Africa and India.
Overland Adventures allow guests to extend their holiday or Grand World Voyage with an in-depth exploration of regions such as India, the Far East, Africa and South America. The adventures range from two- and three-day tours to eight-day explorations.
“More cruise guests are looking to fully immerse themselves in the culture they’ve flown thousands of miles to see,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “By prearranging and offering these unique tours, we’re making it simple for our guests to take full advantage of their time.”
2010 Grand World Voyage guests can take a unique eight-day train tour from Mumbai to Port Kelang, India. The Palace on Wheels Overland Adventure — part of Holland America Line’s Medallion Collection of exclusive tours — is one of the world’s great train rides, taking guests through the heart of India and its rich and vibrant culture. Stops include Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Delhi, then a flight to Kuala Lumpur.
The adventure also includes a sunset camel ride through the Great Indian Desert and a four-wheel drive in the Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its tigers and leopards. In Udaipur, guests will explore the city of lakes and then journey to Bharatpur and the National Bird Sanctuary. From there, it’s a short train ride to Agra and the stunning Taj Mahal. At Delhi, guests will explore India’s capital and its third-largest city, with the Rashtrapati Bhawan presidential palace.
In Africa, guests seeking a safari of a lifetime will enjoy the Ngala Overland Adventure from Port Elizabeth to Durban, South Africa. On the three-day Medallion Collection tour, guests will fly to the Ngala Private Game Reserve. The reserve borders the world-famous Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary.
The African safari offers superb accommodations and several game-drives in an open, four-wheel drive vehicle, giving guests a chance to spot one of Africa’s “big five”: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape Buffalo. The drives are scheduled to allow optimal game viewing. Guests catch a return flight to Durban to board the ship.
Other Overland Adventures trips in Africa and the Far East include: the Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls Overland Adventure, a five-day tour from Cape Town to Durban; the Cambodia and Angkor Wat Overland Adventure, a three-day tour from Singapore to Sihanoukville, Cambodia; the Terra Cotta Warriors, Great Wall and Beijing Overland Adventure, a four-day tour from Shanghai to Xingang, China; and the Kyoto and the Shinkansen Bullet Train Overnight Tour, a two-day adventure from Kobe to Yokohama, Japan.
On the other side of the world, guests sailing South America in 2010 also have enticing new adventures: the Galapagos Islands Cruise Overland Adventure and Mendoza: Land of Wine.
From Manta, Ecuador, to Callao, Peru, the Galapagos Island Cruise Overland Adventure is a four-day adventure allowing guests to discover South America’s vibrant landscapes. Guests depart the ship and travel, via motorcoach, to Guayaquil, Ecuador, to board a plane to the easternmost Galapagos Islands. From there, guests will board the m/v Galápagos Explorer II, an intimate 293-foot vessel for just 100 guests. An experienced naturalist guides shore expeditions to search for wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, whimbrels and sanderlings, Darwin’s finches and yellow warblers.
In Argentina, the Mendoza: Land of Wine tour is sure to entice discriminating wine connoisseurs. The adventure begins with a flight from Buenos Aires to Mendoza, Argentina, for a city tour in the heart of the Argentine wine country. Guests visit a vineyard and sample acclaimed local wines before returning to comfort of their ship.
Holland America Line offers 4,700 different shore excursions at 850 ports of call in more than 100 countries, each highlighting the best of each destination.
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NCL "NOW" Sale Promotion
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 - 10:17 AM
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Norwegian Cruise Line launches its three-day NOW Sale for a limited time through June 19, 2009 offering unbelievable cruise deals and special booking offers for a range of popular cruise destinations including Alaska; Bermuda; Bahamas & Florida; Caribbean; Canada & New England; Mexican Riviera and South America. In addition to great cruise fares, Norwegian is offering up to $250 in on-board spending credit, fifty percent off cruise deposits and third through eighth guests from $99 per person. Union members and those in the military are eligible to receive up to an additional ten percent savings on the cruise fare.
"With these incredible deals and additional offers, there's never been a better time than right now to book a cruise vacation," said Andy Stuart, Norwegian's executive vice president, global sales and passenger services. "We encourage our guests and travel partners to take advantage of this limited time sale as we've made taking a cruise an even better value by reducing the deposit, lowering fares for third through eighth guests and offering an on-board credit of up to $250."
Norwegian's NOW sale is offered on nine of its 11 Freestyle Cruising ships from three to 29-day sailings with departures from Miami, New York, Seattle, Vancouver, Boston, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New Orleans, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Santiago, Chile. The deposit required at time of booking is now half off and depending on the length of the cruise ranges from just $25 to $200 per person (excluding suites and villas). For cruises to Alaska, Caribbean, Bahamas & Florida and Canada & New England, third to eighth guests in the same stateroom are from $99 per person. For cruises to Bermuda and the Mexican Riviera, additional guests in the same stateroom are from $199 per person.
The on-board credit can be used to purchase anything from shore excursions and spa treatments; to specialty fitness classes like yoga and spinning; gifts in the duty free shop and can even be used in the casino. The amount is based on the length of the cruise and the category of stateroom booked. Guests who book sailings of up to five days in a Garden Villa receive $100 per stateroom in spending credit; $75 for suites; $50 for mini-suites; $40 for balcony staterooms; $20 for oceanview and $15 for inside staterooms. For sailings of six days and longer, guests sailing in a Garden Villa receive $250 per stateroom in on-board spending credit; $150 for suites; $100 for mini-suites and deluxe balcony staterooms; $75 for balcony staterooms; $50 for oceanview and $25 for inside staterooms.
To book a sailing NOW, guests should contact a travel professional or NCL at 866-234-7350. Further information, including specific sailing dates, can be found online at www.ncl.com.
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Laser Tag Added to Three Additional Carnival Ships
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Friday, June 12, 2009 - 11:49 PM
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Following the tremendous success of a laser tag pilot program on the Carnival Valor earlier this year, the line has expanded the attraction to two additional ships – Carnival Elation, which sails from San Diego, and Carnival Conquest, departing from Galveston. Another laser tag installation is scheduled for the Carnival Victory, which operates year-round from San Juan, beginning next week.
The inflatable laser tag arena, which operates at various times throughout the day and evening in the ship’s main lounge, has been met with outstanding response from guests sailing on the Carnival Valor.
Each session allows four players at time – either individually or in teams of two — to battle it out against each other in a fog-filled dome for an exciting five minute session. The cost is $5 per person.
The attraction is planned for other Carnival ships in the future.
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Princess Cruises Short Cruises for 2010-11 Schedule Announced
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 11, 2009 - 11:16 AM
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The spring and fall cruise seasons in 2010-11 bring opportunities for Princess Cruises passengers to escape on the line's short West Coast sailings. Ranging from an overnight cruise to a week-long journey, these "coastal" getaways offer passengers the chance to sample the Princess experience as they explore the Pacific coastline.
Passengers can choose from among 18 sailings, including a special seven-day cruise to coastal wine regions with themed onboard presentations, four- and five-day samplers of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, plus shorter sailings of one to three nights. Princess' seasonal getaways offer an opportunity to sail on ships that are traveling along the Pacific coast to begin or end a summer of Alaska cruises.
"People need to escape today more than ever and these short sailings are a great way to fit a cruise into the schedule -- and budget," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.
Princess coastal sailings for 2010-11 include:
Wine Country Coastal -- A seven-day cruise geared towards wine lovers, this special sailing will offer the chance to explore the California wine regions of Santa Barbara and the San Francisco area -- as well as visit the microbreweries of Astoria, Oregon. Themed excursions will be available in many ports to enhance the local wine focus. In addition, onboard presentations from guest experts will showcase the world of food and wine with demonstrations, tastings and special meals. The cruise aboard Sapphire Princess will depart from Los Angeles on May 7, 2011, sailing to Vancouver with calls at Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Astoria, Seattle and Victoria.
California Coastal -- Sailing on a five-day journey down to California from Vancouver, Sapphire Princess will call at Victoria and San Francisco before arriving in "the city of angels," Los Angeles. The sailing will depart on September 20, 2010.
Alaska Sampler -- This quick roundtrip sailing from Vancouver will give travelers a taste of the 49th state, with visits to the Alaskan ports of Juneau and Ketchikan. The five-day cruise on Coral Princess will set sail on May 10, 2010.
Northwest Sampler -- Royal Princess will take visitors on a four-day trip through the scenic Inside Passage with visits to Vancouver and Victoria. Sailing roundtrip from Seattle, the voyage will depart May 20, 2010.
Pacific Coastal: Los Angeles/Vancouver --Passengers can relax with two full days at sea as they cruise up the Pacific coast on these three-day journeys between Los Angeles and Vancouver. Golden Princess will offer two departures on September 26, 2010 and May 11, 2011, and Coral Princess sails on September 18, 2010.
Pacific Coastal: San Francisco/Vancouver --Several cruises travel between San Francisco's legendary Golden Gate and picturesque Vancouver. Coral Princess offers a four-day sailing with calls in Astoria, Oregon and Victoria, BC on May 19, 2011. For a two-day option, Island Princess offers sailings on October 4, 2010 and May 14, 2011, while Star Princess sails on May 11, 2011.
Pacific Coastal: Vancouver/Seattle -- These convenient overnight sailings between Vancouver and Seattle offer the perfect opportunity for a first taste of Princess hospitality. Sapphire Princess will sail May 15, 2010 and September 19, 2010. Golden Princess will offer departures on September 25, 2010 and May 14, 2011. Royal Princess will cruise on September 13, 2010 and May 18, 2011. And Star Princess will depart on May 13, 2011.
Launch Fares for overnight Coastal sailings start at $99 per person, based on double occupancy.
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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Carnival Cruises Returns to Progreso with a Visit by the Carnival Holiday Cruise Ship
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, June 11, 2009 - 11:15 AM
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The 46,000-ton Holiday became the first Carnival Cruise Lines ship to resume visits to Progreso this week, part of a five-day voyage that departed Mobile, Ala., on Saturday.
The ship’s arrival was marked with a special reception attended by a number of local dignitaries, including the Yucatan Governor Ivonne Ortega Pacheco.
Cruise guests enjoyed a warm welcome from local mariachis and folklore dancers. Captain Carmelo Marino is pictured here being interviewed by local media who also attended the festivities.
The Holiday departs year-round from Mobile on four-day cruises departing Thursdays to Cozumel and five-day voyages departing Mondays and Saturdays to Cozumel and Calica/Playa del Carmen or Progreso.
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