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iPad in Every Cabin Aboard Royal Caribbean Splendour of the Seas
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 - 04:42 PM
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Royal Caribbean has announced that it will put an Apple iPad in every stateroom aboard the Splendour of the Seas. Wonder how that will work- what if kids break the iPad- will the parents be responsible? Here is a snippet of the press release:
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The hottest tablet on the market empowers guests with an additional medium by which to receive, retrieve and use information on their cruise vacation. With a touch of the screen, guests will be able to access the daily Cruise Compass of events and activities; personal daily itineraries, including shore excursions; monitor their onboard account; order room service; view restaurant menus; access the internet; and watch movies. The iPads will be available beginning mid-February 2012 on Splendour of the Seas before being extended to all Vision-class ships when each undergoes revitalization in the following two years.
"Based on consumer research, we added the iPads to greatly enhance guest communication, interactivity and to continue to offer industry leading technology that helps enhance the guest experience," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, Hotel Operations, Royal Caribbean International. "This is just one of the many exciting ways that Royal Caribbean continues to provide our guests with the ultimate cruise experience."
The iPads, which will feature English and Portuguese when they debut on Splendour of the Seas, will offer guests the opportunity to access all of their information not only from the comfort of their staterooms, but through the pervasive WIFI also being installed throughout the ship, which will enable guests to enjoy the iPads wherever they go onboard.
In addition to the iPads, Splendour of the Seas, which emerges from dry dock on Nov. 25, 2011, also will have an array of new stateroom amenities such as flat screen televisions, new bathrooms, and completely remodeled interiors, including luxurious new linens and furniture, as well as an additional 124 balconies. The ship also will be outfitted with the award-winning digital wayfinding technology that can be found on the line's acclaimed Oasis-class ships.
The newly revitalized Splendour also will debut new dining options including the Asian Izumi restaurant; the line's signature steakhouse, Chops Grille; the Boardwalk Dog House hotdog counter; the Park Café deli-style restaurant; and the exclusive Chef's Table dining experience. Royal Caribbean also will introduce a new à la carte menu in the Viking Crown Lounge that will offer guests the opportunity to enjoy bite sized portions of their favorite classics. Additional Royal Caribbean signature innovations debuting on the ship will be the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, a Diamond lounge, a Concierge Lounge, a Britto Gallery featuring works from Brazilian pop-artist Romero Britto, the new R-Bar as well as a reinvented Centrum experience.
Upon completion of the refurbishments, Splendour of the Seas will sail a trans-Atlantic voyage on November 25 from Lisbon, Portugal to her seasonal homeport of Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil. From there, she will offer a variety of South American itineraries that take advantage of the summer season in Brazil.
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Princess Cruises Europe Cruisetour 2012
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, November 08, 2011 - 04:30 PM
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Princess Cruises has added two new cruisetour options to its Europe lineup next year, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the splendor of the Swiss Alps and Lake Como or enjoy a cruise up the dramatic Rhine River. The new itineraries join the line's previously announced cruisetours, giving passengers a total of seven land/sea vacation choices for the 2012 season.
The 19-night Swiss Splendors and Lake Como cruisetour takes travelers through some of Europe's most stunning scenery including Alpine Switzerland and the lake district of Italy paired with a Mediterranean cruise. The 18-night Timeless Cities of the Rhine River cruisetour offers passengers a week-long cruise up the scenic Rhine River by riverboat combined with a Princess sailing to Scandinavia and Russia.
"Because Europe has so much to offer beyond the coastal ports, we know our passengers want to further explore the continent's many fascinating destinations," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.
"Travelers want to make the most of their time, so we've made it easy for passengers to immerse themselves in some of the most amazing places in Europe."
Swiss Splendor and Lake Como -- The towering snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps and the idyllic lake district of Italy highlight this seven-night journey from Zurich to Venice that takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Along the way travelers will enjoy stunning Interlaken and charming Lucerne, as well a stop in Old Berne (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and rail travel to the "top of Europe" -- Jungfraujoch. Lovely Lake Como stars in the Italian part of the tour, which also visits the area's enchanting gardens, villas and local villages. Travelers then head to Venice to board Ruby Princess for a 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise.
Timeless Cities of the Rhine River -- After a successful test last season, this 18-night cruisetour joins Princess' European line-up with a river cruise on the storied Rhine River. The seven-night river cruise from Basel to Amsterdam aboard Avalon Felicity or Avalon Visionary sails by the castles and vineyards of one of Europe's greatest rivers, and includes guided excursions in Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Mainz, Rüdesheim, Koblenz and Cologne. Passengers will also sail through the captivating Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered the river's most beautiful stretch. Completing the cruisetour is an 11-night Scandinavia and Russia cruise aboard Emerald Princess.
These tours join the line's other European cruisetour options: Europe's Imperial Treasures which visits the enchanting cities of Budapest, Vienna, Prague and Berlin; Classic Italy, exploring the Eternal City of Rome, the Renaissance masterpiece of Florence and the stunning Tuscan countryside; Ring of Kerry, a chance to discover the beautiful landscapes and charming villages of Ireland; and Ancient Petra and the Dead Sea for travel through some of the most marveled-at wonders of the ancient world.
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Silversea World Cruise 2013 Tidbits
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, October 17, 2011 - 04:17 PM
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Silversea Cruises today revealed a few details of World Cruise 2013, an epic 115-day journey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale aboard Silver Whisper, 5 January to 1 May , 2013.
Crossing the equator four times, the World Cruise itinerary will follow the tropical belt to 52 destinations in 28 countries with overnight stays in several key ports. The warm-weather journey will explore an array of far-flung cultures and scenic wonders including New Zealand and Australia's remote west coast; the idyllic isles of French Polynesia; fascinating Asian cities of Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore; and Africa's rarely seen western coast.
Click here to view the complete itinerary or visit Silversea.com/worldcruise2013.
Starting today, members of Silversea's Venetian Society loyalty club can take advantage of priority reservations to reserve a suite for the entire 115-day voyage -- before it is released to the general public.
Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America, said: "The itinerary for our World Cruise 2013 is an experienced traveller's dream. Guests will be able to visit some of the most exotic places on the planet, from Bali and Bora Bora to Madagascar and Tasmania, returning every evening to the comfort and all-inclusive luxury of Silver Whisper."
Silversea is offering the added convenience of a full North America-to-North America circumnavigation. Sailing between Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, the 115-day voyage features additional opportunities to embark or disembark in Fort Lauderdale, New York and Southampton. The optional extensions are:
--Fort Lauderdale Embarkation: 16-day Panama Canal Holiday pre-cruise, Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles, 20 December 2012 - 5 January 2013
--New York Disembarkation: 3-day post-cruise leg extension from Fort Lauderdale to New York City, 1 - 4 May 2013
--Southampton Disembarkation: 15-day post-cruise transatlantic crossing from Fort Lauderdale to Southampton via New York City, 1 - 16 May 2013
A Host of Added-Value Amenities
In addition to all-inclusive fares, full World Cruise guests will enjoy an array of special amenities, from complimentary air or air credit and transfers to a generous shipboard credit. There will also be a magnificent World Cruise event ashore, a gala Bon Voyage reception, dinner and overnight at the exclusive Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, commemorative gifts, Silver Shore Baggage Valet -- even laundry is included.
At Home Upon the Oceans of the World
The intimate Silver Whisper is the perfect escort to the far corners of the globe. She can sail along secluded waterways or into small harbours for authentic, life-changing encounters with nature, wildlife and the seldom-seen.
All-Inclusive Silversea distinctions include:
--Intimate, ultra-luxury ship for just 382 guests
--All-suite accommodations, over 80% with verandas
--Butler service for every suite
--Complimentary wines and spirits
--Included onboard gratuities
--Complimentary transportation to town (most ports)
The company expects to open reservations for World Cruise 2013 to the general public in the next several weeks, when pricing and more details will be available at www.silversea.com.
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Norwegian Breakaway Peter Max Hull Painting Commissioned
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, October 06, 2011 - 04:20 PM
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Those art auctioneers are smiling now I'm sure trying to sell more Peter Max art onboard ;-). Here is the press release from NCL:
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Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that pop icon and America's most popular living artist, Peter Max, has been commissioned to paint the signature hull artwork for the line's newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, scheduled for delivery in April 2013. This is the first time Norwegian has asked a well-known artist to paint the hull artwork on one of its ships. The company also announced today that the ship will homeport year-round in Max's hometown, New York City.
"Since Norwegian Breakaway will be making her home in New York, we felt it was fitting to ask the artist best associated with New York, Mr. Peter Max, to paint the ship's hull," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "I am a huge fan of his work and know that the art he creates for Norwegian Breakaway will make the ship instantly recognizable."
With paintings on exhibition in hundreds of museums and galleries worldwide, Peter Max and his vibrant colors have become part of the fabric of contemporary culture. Max has been successively called a Pop Icon, Neo Fauvist, Abstract Expressionist and the United States' "Painter Laureate."
"I am so excited to be painting the hull of Norwegian Breakaway for Norwegian Cruise Line," said Peter Max. "I love painting large canvases. I've painted a plane and a stage for Woodstock, but never a ship. I love ships and have travelled on them many times in my life. To see my artwork floating on Norwegian Breakaway out at sea will be a dream come true."
Max has achieved his place in history having painted for various Heads of State, including six U.S. Presidents. From art that appeared on the first U.S. 10-cent stamp bearing the title "Preserve the Environment," to 235 U.S. Border murals greeting millions of people entering America each year, Peter Max seeks to capture themes of America at its finest in his art.
He has a long-standing career as the preeminent Pop artist in America. His art appears on a Boeing 777 jumbo jet currently flying the skies for Continental; a 600-foot stage for the Woodstock Music Festival; the covers of Verizon's New York City yellow and white pages; and a giant mural unveiled at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Max has also been designated Official Artist of five Super Bowls, six Grammy Awards, World Cup USA, The World Series, the United Nations Earth Summit, and numerous other events. Max was honored at the Jefferson Awards with an award for his lifetime dedication to America, and its charitable causes.
Currently under construction at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Breakaway will be 144,017 gross tons and have 4,000 passenger berths. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to "break away" from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea. Norwegian Breakaway, and sister ship Norwegian Getaway (scheduled for delivery in April 2014), will take the best of the best from all of Norwegian's existing ships, drawing on the line's experience of having launched 10 ships in the past 10 years starting with Norwegian Star and Sun in 2001 and culminating with the launch of Norwegian Epic in 2010.
To date, the company has revealed details on all of the ships' staterooms which combine the form and function of the line's Jewel class ships' staterooms with the modern and contemporary design touches of Norwegian Epic. A rich mix of stateroom options will be available including the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers, the re-introduction of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites, along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa. The ship also features The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 suites at the top of the ship and 18 additional suites located throughout the ship.
Norwegian Breakaway's New York to Bermuda cruises are scheduled to go on sale to Latitudes members, Norwegian's frequent guests, on Friday, October 14, 2011 and to the public on Monday, October 17, 2011. Also, as part of its Partners First commitment, Norwegian will open Norwegian Breakaway's sailings for group block bookings exclusively for travel partners on Monday, October 10, 2011. Information on Norwegian Breakaway's accommodations and itinerary can be found at www.ncl.com/breakaway.
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Princess Cruises 2012-2013 Caribbean and Panama Canal Itineraries
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, September 19, 2011 - 01:15 PM
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Princess Cruises ships will sail to the balmy waters of the Caribbean from both Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Galveston, Texas during the fall 2012 to spring 2013 cruise season, plus will offer a variety of ways to cruise through one of the world's engineering wonders, the Panama Canal.
Princess' upcoming Caribbean schedule will feature five ships sailing to the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean, including a Western Caribbean route aboard Crown Princess that will mark the line's return to sailing from Galveston. During the fall to spring season, passengers can choose from 115 voyages sailing to 22 destinations on 10 itineraries, ranging from seven-day island getaways to relaxing 20-day sojourns.
Additionally, Princess continues to be the leader in Panama Canal cruising with two ships -- Coral Princess and Island Princess -- sailing in the region on eight itinerary options, including both full and partial Canal transits. The vessels, built especially for sailing through this marvel of engineering, together will offer 40 cruise departures for an up-close look at the fascinating process of moving up and down through the famous locks.
"Whether they want beautiful beaches, natural wonders, colorful culture or intriguing history, passengers will find the ports of our Caribbean and Panama Canal sailings are the perfect way to escape from the cold of winter, the stress of work or everyday routine," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.
Princess Cruises' 2012-13 Caribbean season includes:
Ruby Princess/Eastern Caribbean -- Ruby Princess sails to the Eastern Caribbean, with roundtrip seven-day cruises from Ft. Lauderdale on Sundays. The itinerary features calls at the line's own Princess Cays, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Grand Turk. Ruby Princess sails between October 28, 2012 and April 28, 2013.
Crown Princess/Western Caribbean from Galveston -- Crown Princess makes Princess' return to Galveston, Texas for seven-day sailings to Costa Maya, Roatán, Belize and Cozumel. Cruises depart between December 22, 2012 and April 27, 2013.
Caribbean Princess/Southern Caribbean -- Caribbean Princess sails from Ft. Lauderdale on a seven-day roundtrip voyage to Princess Cays, Curaçao and Aruba. Departures run from November 10, 2012 to April 27, 2013. Caribbean Princess will also offer a special four-day Bermuda Sampler voyage to Bermuda on a roundtrip sailing from New York, departing on Oct. 27, 2012; and a 10-day Caribbean Islander voyage from New York to Ft. Lauderdale, calling at San Juan, St. Thomas, Antigua and Aruba, departing on October 31, 2012.
Grand Princess/Eastern and Southern Caribbean -- Grand Princess sails on alternating seven-day voyages from Ft. Lauderdale. The ship sails to San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Princess Cays in the Eastern Caribbean; and Princess Cays, Curaçao, and Aruba in the Southern Caribbean. Grand Princess sails between November 17, 2012 and January 19, 2013. Voyages can be combined for a longer 14-day cruise among the islands.
Emerald Princess/10-Day Eastern and Southern Caribbean -- For a more in-depth island vacation with the convenience of roundtrip travel from Ft. Lauderdale, Emerald Princess offers alternating 10-day roundtrip itineraries -- one to the Southern Caribbean and the other to the Eastern Caribbean. The Southern Caribbean Medley itinerary calls at Aruba, Bonaire, Grenada, Dominica, St. Thomas, and Princess Cays. The Eastern Caribbean Voyager itinerary offers calls at Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and Princess Cays. Emerald Princess sails between November 7, 2012 and April 26, 2013. Voyages can be combined into a 20-day Caribbean Grand Adventure.
Panama Canal itineraries include:
Roundtrip Panama Canal Cruises -- Coral Princess and Island Princess again sail the classic 10-day roundtrip itinerary from Ft. Lauderdale, which offers a partial Panama Canal transit to Gatun Lake followed by an evening a call in Colón, plus calls in the Caribbean ports of Aruba, Cartagena, Limón (Costa Rica), and Grand Cayman or Ocho Rios. The ships sail between October 13, 2012 and April 15, 2013.
Full Panama Canal Transit Sailings -- This 14-day itinerary between Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles offers a full Panama Canal transit plus visits to Aruba, Cartagena, Puntarenas (Costa Rica), San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua), and Cabo San Lucas. Island Princess offers four sailings on this route, with departures on November 12 and 26, 2012, plus March 8 and 22, 2013.
Panama Canal Two-Day Experience Cruises -- Coral Princess and Island Princess will feature three itineraries offering Princess' Two-Day Canal Experience -- a full Panama Canal transit combined with a full day at Fuerte Amador on the Pacific side of Panama. The 14-day itinerary sails between Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles with calls at Aruba, Cartagena, and Puntarenas (Costa Rica) in addition to the Two-Day Canal Experience. A 15-day option offers an additional call in Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala). And another 15-day option sails from San Francisco to Ft. Lauderdale with calls at Cabo San Lucas, Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Cartagena, and Aruba. Sailings on these itineraries depart between September 20, 2012 and May 4, 2013. Coral Princess and Island Princess also offer longer Grand Adventures of 17, 18 and 19 days, sailing to and from Vancouver.
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Regent 7 Seas Cruises and Oceania Make Miami its Main Port and Headquarters
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, September 12, 2011 - 01:48 PM
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced today that beginning in fall 2012 it will join sister company, Oceania Cruises, at the Port of Miami. The lines ultra-luxury ships presently sail out of Port Everglades. The combined brands will account for more than 30 ship calls annually.
We are looking forward to making the Port of Miami headquarters for both our cruise brands, stated Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings, the parent company of both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises.
Regent Seven Seas will operate from Port Everglades for one more year before moving operations to Miami. We are appreciative to Port Everglades for its many years of excellent service to our valued guests, said Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Regent and Oceania will have a dedicated terminal in Miami and the added flexibility of operating itineraries any day of the week.
Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises ships will berth at the Port of Miamis newly renovated Cruise Terminal J. The port has invested nearly $3 million on facility renovations and dockside improvements. Additionally, the new tunnel project will greatly improve accessibility to the port.
With the introduction of Regent, we are looking forward to growing the ultra-luxury market at our port, said Bill Johnson, director for the Port of Miami. We are in the process of upgrading Terminal J into a 'boutique' facility to cater to the mid-size ships that serve the upscale market.
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Silversea Relais & Châteaux L'École des Chefs Cruises Added
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 - 12:19 PM
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Silversea Cruises is pleased to announce that four additional voyages this year will feature the exclusive "Relais & Châteaux L'École des Chefs" interactive cooking school.
Rudi Scholdis, Silversea's director of culinary development, said: "Our L'École des Chefs cooking school is proving extremely popular with guests and we're pleased to roll it out to more voyages this year."
The new L'École des Chefs voyages for 2011 are:
NORTHERN EUROPE
Voyage 4122: Silver Whisper departs Stockholm 23 July on a 7-day sailing to Copenhagen with calls in Tallinn, St Petersburg (3-day/2-night stopover) and Helsinki. Silver Savings fares start at USD$4,948.
Voyage 1121: Silver Cloud departs Copenhagen 30 July on a 17-day roundtrip sailing with calls in Alesund, Geiranger, Helleysilt, Lofoten, Tromso, Honningsvag (North Cape), Murmansk, Archangel (overnight visit), Hammerfest and Kristiansund. Silver Savings fares start at $8,818.
FAR EAST
Voyage 3126: Silver Shadow departs Incheon (Seoul) 23 September on a 12-day sailing to Hong Kong with calls in Qingdao, Shanghai, Jiangyin, Nanjing and Xiamen. Highlights include cruising the Yangtze River and overnight stays in Shanghai and Hong Kong. Silver Savings fares start at $6,228.
Voyage 3127: Silver Shadow departs Hong Kong 5 October on a 12-day sailing to Singapore with calls in Chan May, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Ko Samui, and Kuantan. Highlights include overnight stays in Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok. Silver Savings fares start at $6,228.
Through its exclusive partnership with Relais & Châteaux, the distinguished international association of charming properties and gourmet restaurants, Silversea enjoys the privilege of featuring the only Relais & Châteaux L'École des Chefs cooking school at sea. The innovative programme offers guests a special culinary curriculum, including hands-on instruction, and entertaining events hosted by Silversea culinary trainer David Bilsland. Educated in classic French cooking, Bilsland's career includes several years as a chef instructor at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in London. He presents a programme developed in collaboration with Jacques Thorel, the owner of L'Auberge Bretonne and a consulting Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux.
The curriculum for each of these cruises is carefully designed to celebrate the cultural flavour of the ship's itinerary. Highlights include specialised workshops covering a range of topics from basic knife skills and kitchen terminology to sauces and baking; cooking demonstrations with wine pairings and interactive Q&A sessions; lively cooking competitions between Chef Bilsland and the ship's own culinary team; a "Lunch and Learn" event offering small groups of guests a chance to sample a delicious meal of specially prepared dishes; and inspired "Take It Home" recipes that will give guests an edge when entertaining at home.
Also offered on certain voyages, when the itinerary permits, is a "Market to the Plate" experience that provides an escorted tour of a local market followed by a cooking class, and a "Culinary Outing," an instructor-escorted excursion to a local restaurant, hotel or other venue where guests can enjoy a unique culinary exploration.
Fares listed above are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite and do not include port charges and handling fees that range from $175 to $450 per person for these voyages, depending on the itinerary.
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Sea Princess 6-9-2011 San Francisco Embarkation Delayed Until 5:30 PM
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, June 07, 2011 - 04:48 PM
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On the current sailing of Sea Princess there has been an increase in the number of cases of gastrointestinal illness amongst passengers caused by Norovirus, a common illness. It will be necessary for the ship to undergo a prolonged and additional disinfection in San Francisco on Thursday, June 9, 2011. As a consequence, embarkation will be delayed.
Cruise check-in is now scheduled to begin at 5:30pm. To ensure a smooth start to your voyage, we operate a staggered check-in schedule as noted below determined by your deck and cabin number. We kindly request that you plan to arrive at your scheduled check-in time.
5:30pm - Aloha, Plaza & Riviera Decks / Cabins A201-A745, P225-P349, R303-R351
6:30pm - Caribe & Emerald Decks / Cabins C201-C749, E301-E353
7:00pm - Baja & Dolphin Decks / Cabins B201-B755, D201-D753
Passengers arriving prior to 5:30pm will be asked to return when check-in begins as there is very limited seating space in the terminal.
All passengers must be on board by 7:30pm.
In addition, our delayed departure will require itinerary changes to your upcoming cruise. Our call to Juneau on June 12 has been cancelled and replaced with a call to Sitka. The call to Haines on June 14 has also been cancelled and replaced with a call to Juneau. The revised itinerary is available on the Cruise Personalizer.
Read More Here
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Princess to Offer Zumba Classes on All Ships
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 - 04:20 PM
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Zumba Fitness, the exhilarating dance-fitness program that blends red-hot international music and contagious choreography, is rolling out to the entire Princess Cruises fleet. Since December, passengers on many Princess ships have been joining in the hip-shaking fun with complimentary classes taught by licensed Zumba instructors. The classes quickly became among the most popular activities on board, and now additional staff members will complete the official training to become licensed Zumba instructors as the program expands fleetwide.
On land, there are more than 110,000 Zumba classes held in gyms, fitness studios and even nightclubs, attracting millions of enthusiasts around the world. At sea, Princess ships offer the complimentary workouts once or twice per cruise, transforming venues such as Club Fusion, the Piazza or the outside decks adjacent to Movies Under the Stars into a high-energy Zumba fitness party.
"The energetic atmosphere and popularity of Zumba classes inspired us to send our staff members for official training to become licensed Zumba instructors, so that we could offer this fun new fitness option to our passengers," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "As a result, our onboard Zumba classes are always packed, and consistently receive positive feedback from passengers who are happy to have the opportunity to try something they've been hearing about, or to continue with the program they have at home."
Zumba classes were first introduced in December 2010 and are currently offered aboard Caribbean Princess, Dawn Princess, Diamond Princess, Emerald Princess, Grand Princess, Golden Princess, Island Princess, Ruby Princess, Sapphire Princess, Sea Princess and Star Princess. The program is expected to be available fleetwide before the end of the year.
The Zumba program is a fitness party that fuses international rhythms with exotic beats and has helped to melt the pounds and inches off 12 million Zumba enthusiasts in 125 countries. Zumba classes provide an effective total-body workout, which successfully tone and sculpt while burning fat.
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Princess 2012-2013 Cruise Tour Schedule
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, March 17, 2011 - 04:02 PM
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Among Princess 2012-2013 cruises include sailing to the Hawaiian Islands from San Francisco and longer 14-day Australia & New Zealand itineraries, and will once again sail to the Western Caribbean from Galveston, Texas. More ships will sail in South America and Alaska, and several ships will make regional debuts, including Grand Princess' first ever sailings on the West Coast and Caribbean Princess' maiden European deployment. Cruisetours combining a cruise and land experience will enable passengers to more fully explore Alaska, Europe, Canada and New England, Asia, Australia and South America.
Highlights of Princess' 2012-2013 season include:
ALASKA
Princess draws on more than 40 years of experience cruising the 49th state, offering Gulf of Alaska and Inside Passage sailings with an extensive selection of cruisetours to the heart of Alaska. The 2012 program will include a seven-ship deployment, including a fourth ship added to the Voyage of the Glaciers route, and three ships sailing the Inside Passage. All cruisetour options will continue to include Alaska's top two attractions -- Denali and Glacier Bay National Parks, and Princess will take more passengers to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line.
EUROPE
The largest Europe deployment in Princess history, the 2012 season offers a wide selection of sailings through the timeless cities of the Mediterranean, the splendor of Scandinavia and Russia and the intriguing ports of Northern Europe. The season features seven ships sailing on 57 itineraries to 116 destinations, including Caribbean Princess' European debut and new 14-day Baltic and 16-day Land of the Midnight Sun routes. And 12-day Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises will continue to offer overnight stays in one of the continent's most sought-after destinations -- Venice. Two new ports will debut -- Korcula, Croatia on the 12-day Mediterranean Collection on Pacific Princess and Nessebar, Bulgaria (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) on the 12-day Black Sea & Crimean Coasts route.
CARIBBEAN
Princess' Caribbean schedule will feature five ships sailing to the best of the sparkling waters of the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean. Passengers can choose from 115 voyages sailing to 22 destinations on 10 itineraries. The season includes Princess' return to the Texas Gulf Coast with the debut of Crown Princess sailing out of Galveston.
PANAMA CANAL
Princess continues to be the leader in Panama Canal cruising, with two ships, eight itineraries -- including both full and partial transits -- and 40 voyages aboard Coral Princess and Island Princess.
MEXICO & PACIFIC COAST
The 2012-2013 season will feature more Pacific coastal sailings than ever before, plus Mexico sailings from both Los Angeles and San Francisco. Five ships will sail on 31 departures of nine itineraries sailing to 14 destinations. A new seven-day California Coastal itinerary will feature the best of the Golden State with an added visit to Catalina and an overnight in San Francisco.
HAWAII, TAHITI & SOUTH PACIFIC
The dazzling islands of Hawaii and Tahiti headline a season with more Hawaiian Islands sailings than ever before including new voyages from San Francisco. The full program includes eight ships offering 12 itinerary choices with 56 voyages to 32 destinations. Among the highlights are an expanded Hawaiian Islands program with three ships sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles and San Francisco, Grand Princess making her West Coast debut, and two sailings of the popular 28-day Hawaii, Tahiti & Samoa itinerary previously introduced with the fall 2011 schedule.
ASIA, INDIA & AFRICA
Princess' Exotics program includes sailings throughout Asia plus passages through the Suez Canal and across the Indian Ocean. Five ships sail on 28 sailings of 21 itineraries to 54 destinations. Other highlights include Bangkok once again featured as a homeport on the line's 16-day Southeast Asia & China itinerary, plus the line's first call in Aomori, Japan.
AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
"Down Under" cruising expands with a new longer itinerary, plus three ships based locally for Aussie-style cruising. Four ships will sail on 40 voyages of eight different itineraries. Highlights include a new 14-day Australia & New Zealand itinerary -- adding Wellington and Picton -- and a new 33-day Round Australia & New Zealand itinerary. Featuring the largest Australia deployment of any North American line in the region, Princess ships will also offer more New Zealand cruises than any other line.
SOUTH AMERICA & AMAZON
The lively Latin culture of South America takes center stage with Princess 2012-2013 cruise season, offering three ships sailing on 18 voyages of 11 itineraries. Highlights include two ships -- Star Princess and Grand Princess -- both sailing an around Cape Horn itinerary between Buenos Aires and Santiago, and a new 19-day Brazilian Adventure route that stops for an overnight in Rio during the world-famous Carnival. Pacific Princess will once again offer cruises up the mighty Amazon River.
CANADA & NEW ENGLAND
The North Atlantic Coast voyages offer dramatic scenery and historic attractions. Two ships sail on three favorite Princess routes visiting 12 destinations. The 11 departures include Caribbean Princess sailing roundtrip from New York, and Emerald Princess offering 10-day Classic Canada & New England sailings between New York and Quebec.
WORLD CRUISES & CIRCLE PACIFIC
Three ships will offer world voyages, including Pacific Princess rounding the globe on a 107-day voyage from Ft. Lauderdale to Venice on January 27, 2013; Sun Princess setting sail on her first-ever global circumnavigation with a 104-day sailing from Sydney on May 16, 2012, and Dawn Princess offering a 75-day Circle Pacific itinerary that departs July 27, 2012.
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Crystal Cruises with Jewish Excursions
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, March 14, 2011 - 04:00 PM
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Crystal Cruises 2011 Cruises with Jewish theme excursions include:
· St. Petersburg: Discover how this resilient Russian Jewish community survived Communist oppression, war, and hardship to flourish today, as demonstrated through its people, community centers, music, and an intimate home visit.
· Mumbai: Visit three synagogues, ranging from Baghdadi to Bene-Israel congregations.
· Copenhagen: Learn how 99% of Denmarkâs Jews survived the Holocaust, at the Museum of Danish Resistance.
· Dublin: Take in the social, legal, and political contributions of the Irish-Jewish community; see the first dedicated day school and home of Israeli ex-President Chaim Herzog.
· German Concentration Camps: Explore Neungamme, which housed 100,000 prisoners outside Hamburg, and Berlinâs Sachsenhausen, which became the blueprint for all other camps.
· Rome: Walk through the 2000+ year-old Jewish Quarter of Rome.
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Carnival Miracle New York Caribbean Cruises Staring 4-14-2011
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, March 08, 2011 - 06:26 PM
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Carnival Miracle will offer a pair of different eight-day itineraries sailing round-trip from New York. Beginning April 14, the ship begins sailing from the Big Apple south toward the Caribbeanâs golden beaches and sun-filled skies while calling at some of the regionâs most popular and picturesque ports.
The first itinerary includes stops at San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its colonial fortresses, eco-adventures and designer boutiques, as well as St. Thomas and Grand Turk, two of the most diverse yet beautiful destinations in the region. Both are known for their gorgeous white-sand beaches, as well as abundance of water-related activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving in crystalline waters teeming with colorful marine life.
The second itinerary features calls at Nassau, Bahamas, and Grand Turk, in addition to Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island with turquoise waters, powdery beaches and plenty of fun activities such as parasailing, horseback riding and stingray encounters, as well as a new pirate-themed watering hole called Captain Morgan on the Rocks.
The eight-day Caribbean itineraries include multiple days at sea, giving these cruises the best of both worlds â exciting ports of call combined with plenty of time to get the full âFun Shipâ experience. While on board, guests can take advantage of popular amenities and activities like the three-deck high Twister Waterslide, luxurious spa facilities, casino gambling, and numerous bars and lounges.
For younger cruisers, Carnivalâs youth programs offer modern play areas and enthusiastic counselors who lead fun-filled activities from morning until night.
Carnival Miracle will continue its New York-based Caribbean program through Oct. 5 then reposition to Fort Lauderdale for its winter Caribbean cruise schedule.
To book any of Carnival Miracleâs eight-day Caribbean cruises, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.
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Cunard Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth Programme for 2012 and 2013 Released
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, March 07, 2011 - 02:15 PM
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Cunard Line has introduced its programme of luxury cruise vacations aboard Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth in 2012 and early 2013. On sale 4 April, highlights of the new season include many popular itineraries with multiple departure dates; overnight stays in Amsterdam, Venice, Rome, Hamburg, St Petersburg, Boston, Quebec, Madeira and Barcelona; and maiden calls in Morocco and Spain. Featuring more than 70 departures, Cunard combines the New Golden Age of Ocean Travel with the classic traditions and legendary White Star Service for which Cunard is renowned.
In addition to the extensive voyage programme, Cunard is excited to announce another Cunard Royal Rendezvous on 5 June 2012, when all three Cunard Queens will meet in Southampton, England to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen.
"Since the launch of Queen Elizabeth this past fall, it has been remarkable to see the response to our ships as they tour the globe," said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. "As the pace of life accelerates, more and more people are seeking unique experiences, traditional values and service excellence. Our unrivalled heritage and youngest fleet in the world are proving to be more popular than ever."
Queen Mary 2
The Line's flagship Queen Mary 2 continues to sail her legendary Transatlantic Crossings in 2012, including 19 classic seven-day voyages between New York and Southampton and six nine-day extended Crossings between New York and Hamburg.
Queen Mary 2 also offers voyages to the Baltic, Norway and the North Cape, the Atlantic Isles and Iberia, as well as a return to the Mediterranean including maiden calls in Malaga and Valencia, Spain. All of these European itineraries can be combined with a Transatlantic Crossing on either side to create a Grand Voyage - offering North American guests the chance to sail to Europe roundtrip from New York.
After her annual Getaway for the 4 July holiday, Queen Mary 2 returns to New York in fall 2012 for two Canada and New England voyages - including one with an overnight stay in Quebec - and a Holiday sailing to the Caribbean.
Queen Elizabeth
Cunard's newest ship, Queen Elizabeth, takes over the successful fall Mediterranean programme with 12-day Mediterranean voyages that begin and end in Athens, Venice or Rome. Featuring eight unique itineraries, Queen Elizabeth's Mediterranean season commences with a nine-day voyage from Southampton to Rome on 28 August and concludes with the 10-day voyage from Rome (overnight) to Southampton on 29 November. These voyages call on Seville (Cadiz); Palma; Barcelona; Monte Carlo; and Florence/Pisa (Livorno).
In 2012, this popular offering has been further enhanced with two voyages to the Holy Land - including calls in Jerusalem, Galilee and Alexandria - as well as more voyages to the Greek Isles and Black Sea including:
* Three 12-day Greek Isles voyages between Athens and Venice, and one 12-day Greek Isles voyage roundtrip Athens (including calls to Mykonos; Mytilene; Istanbul; Kusadasi (for Ephesus); Rhodes; Santorini; Katakolon (for Olympia); Corfu; Dubrovnik; Heraklion; and/or Alexandria (for Cairo/Giza), depending on the voyage)
* One 12-day Black Sea voyage from Venice to Athens (featuring calls to Katakolon (for Olympia); Mykones; Instanbul (overnight); Yalta; Odessa; Nessebur; Kusadasi (for Ephesus); and Santorini
Prior to that, Queen Elizabeth also takes guests on a series of voyages roundtrip from Southampton to Norway, the Baltic and her second circumnavigation of the British Isles.
In early 2013, Queen Elizabeth will showcase a series of legendary voyages that include full transits of the Panama Canal, plus new voyages to the South Pacific and New Zealand - including maiden calls in Hilo, Hawaii; Bora Bora, French Polynesia; and Christchurch, New Zealand. The ship's South Pacific voyages include: one 15-day voyage from Los Angeles to Auckland; one 21-day from Auckland to Los Angeles; or guests can opt to sail the 36-day roundtrip South Pacific voyage from Los Angeles.
Queen Victoria
With a range of voyages to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic Isles and Iberia, Queen Victoria makes Southampton her homeport for 2012.
New for Queen Victoria in 2012 is a 20-day voyage to the Black Sea and Turkey as well as maiden calls in Casablanca, Morocco and Constanza, Bulgaria.
Some of Queen Victoria's returning itinerary favorites include the seven-day Fjords and Waterfalls voyages to Norway, the 14-day St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer (with an overnight in St. Petersburg), the 17-day Adriatic Discovery and an enhanced Mediterranean Gems itinerary that adds an additional day for a 13-day voyage.
World Club members enjoy 5% discounts of up to $1,000 per person off public rates and are available to past guests who book by:
* September 30, 2011 for summer 2012 voyages
* December 31, 2011 for fall 2012 voyages
* March 31, 2012 for spring 2013 voyages
Reservations for Cunard's 2012 and 2013 voyages will open for booking on 4 April for all guests. For more information and to book a voyage, consult your travel agent, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to www.cunard.com.
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P&O Oriana to be Adult Only Cruise Ship
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, March 07, 2011 - 01:59 PM
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P&O Cruises today revealed that the P&O Oriana will be changed into a ship exclusively for adults in November this year, the ship will feature a different select dining restaurant, Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White.
Oriana will undergo a transformation which will see the addition of 27 new cabins, including balconies and singles, in place of the current childrenâs areas. Sorrento, a stylish new, light and airy Italian restaurant with ocean views and an outdoor dining area will be added, the Oasis Spa will be updated, and the deck 8 aft childrenâs pool will be replaced with a relaxing seating area complemented by the existing deck bar.
Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White will debut on board Adonia in May and also be added to Arcadia during refurbishment in late 2011. Ocean Grill will serve dishes such as Marcoâs classic crayfish cocktail, grilled lobster with triple cooked chips, and one of his signature desserts âSherry Trifle Wally Laddâ
P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow, said:
âAll of these enhancements have been made following feedback from our passengers and we canât wait for them to enjoy these changes on board. Weâre delighted that with these changes Oriana will become even more elegant and very well suited to passengers seeking a sophisticated environment exclusively for adults.
âRecent research has shown that passengers want an entirely different Select dining experience to that offered elsewhere on the ship and they also want a contemporary style. Marco Pierre White has proved to be a huge hit with our passengers so we have asked him to work his culinary magic on board Oriana, Arcadia and Adonia.
âThese ships offer longer itineraries and Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White will provide an evolving menu to offer a different choice of cuisine throughout the cruise.â
Marco Pierre White said: âDining is about the complete experience and this comprises the surroundings, the company, the service and of course the food. Each element is as important as the other and the Ocean Grill will offer these in equal measure.â
The changes are reflected in the new P&O Cruises 2012 brochure so passengers can start to explore and book their next cruise holiday. The new programme which has significant savings for early bookers goes on sale on April 5.
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Celebrity Cruises iPhone App (Android and Blackberry, too)
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, March 03, 2011 - 03:02 PM
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Celebrity Cruises today launched its own iPhone app (and apps for the Android and Blackberry) aimed at saving customer time doing research and cruise planning easier with your phone. The app is free from the Apple store.
Users of Celebrity's new mobile app will have a wealth of "search" and "explore" functionality allowing them to view the breadth of global destinations Celebrity visits; review the widely varied onboard activities, including the line's iLearn courses in the Celebrity iLounge, Rosetta Stone language courses, and comparative wine tastings with Riedel Crystal; e-mail itineraries of interest to themselves or to others; request a call or e-mail from Customer Service or call them directly via the app, and even peruse answers to the perennial question: "What should I pack?"
Concurrently, the new mobile web site introduced by technologically-savvy Celebrity - the first cruise line to present menus, wine lists and even art tours on an iPad, in addition to the "Celebrity iLounge," a hip cybercafé equipped with some of the latest Apple products and accessories - allows consumers to utilize iPhone, Android and BlackBerry (models 8520 and up) devices to search for a Celebrity cruise and itineraries, obtain destination information, view details about each stylish ship, connect with Celebrity's social media sites, e-mail itineraries of interest to Celebrity's Customer Service team, or contact Customer Service 'live' at any point during the experience.
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Princess Cruises Crown Princess Galveston Cruises 2012-2013
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, March 03, 2011 - 02:28 PM
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For the first time since 2007, a Princess Cruises ship will again set sail from the port of Galveston, offering cruises to the sunny Western Caribbean.
Crown Princess will offer 19 departures from Galveston between December 22, 2012 and April 27, 2013. The seven-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itinerary features ports of call at Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico.
"We've received a great deal of feedback from cruisers interested in sailing from Galveston again," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "So we're excited to be returning in 2012 to bring our Western Caribbean sailings back to Texas."
The 3,070-passenger Crown Princess offers greater capacity than Princess ships previously based in Galveston. The 113,000-ton vessel debuted in 2006 and offers the line's popular signature features, including a piazza-style atrium with International Café and Vines wine bar; the 300-square-foot Movies Under the Stars poolside theater; The Sanctuary, an adults-only "oasis of tranquility"; and a variety of dining, recreation and entertainment options.
"Welcoming back Princess Cruises and hosting Crown Princess is a great addition to the Texas cruise market. We're excited that the return of Princess Cruises will offer our passengers additional options of cruise vacations sailing from Texas' premiere cruise port," said Steven M. Cernak, Galveston port director. The remainder of the Princess Cruises Caribbean schedule will be announced later this month.
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NCL Pearl New York Bahamas and Southern Caribbean Cruises
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, March 02, 2011 - 03:52 PM
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Norwegian Cruise Line today announced its Northeast deployment schedule for the 2012/2013 fall and winter season which features two, large Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from New York offering a variety of itineraries. For the first time, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Pearl will sail from New York beginning in October 2012, offering a series of 21 seven-day Bahamas and Florida cruises, along with three 12-day Southern Caribbean voyages. Norwegian Gem, also accommodating 2,394 passengers, will continue to homeport in New York where she will offer a series of 24 nine-day Eastern Caribbean voyages and four 10-day cruises to Eastern Canada and Quebec. Rounding out the fall season from the Northeast, Norwegian Dawn will sail seven day cruises to Canada and New England from both Boston and Quebec for five weeks starting September 21, 2012.
"With the arrival of Norwegian Pearl in New York, we will have two of our newer and larger Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from this very popular homeport," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's chief executive officer. "New Yorkers love Freestyle Cruising because it suits their needs. With two of our Jewel-class ships in New York, we are giving guests more choice and the opportunity to sail longer cruises to the Caribbean."
Norwegian Pearl will make her New York debut on October 14, 2012, sailing a seven-day itinerary that calls on Orlando & the Beaches (Port Canaveral); Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian's private island) and Nassau, Bahamas. The three 12-day Southern Caribbean cruises, on January 6, January 20 and February 3, 2013, include stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados and St. John's, Antigua; as well as five relaxing days at sea. Norwegian Pearl will also offer three opportunities to experience Freestyle Cruising on a two-day getaway sailing from New York on January 18, February 1 and February 15, 2013.
Continuing to homeport in New York, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem will sail two newly extended itineraries to Eastern Canada and Quebec and the Eastern Caribbean. Norwegian Gem will begin her four 10-day sailings to Canada and Quebec on September 8, 2012; calling on Halifax, Nova Scotia; an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Sydney, Nova Scotia. From October 20, 2012 to April 18, 2013, Norwegian Gem's nine-day itinerary to the Eastern Caribbean will stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Samana, Dominican Republic.
Beginning on September 21, 2012, the 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will spend the fall season in Canada and New England. The ship will offer three seven-day sailings from Boston visiting Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspésie, Quebec; Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec and ending in Quebec City, Quebec. Norwegian Dawn will also offer two seven-day sailings from Quebec calling Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Sydney, Nova Scotia, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine. Guests can combine these itineraries into a 14-day cruise, with an option to embark from either Boston or Quebec. This will be the first time Norwegian Cruise Line will visit Gaspésie in Quebec.
These itineraries are currently on sale. To book, please contact a travel professional, visit www.ncl.com; or call 866-234-735
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Celebrity Solstice Australia and New Zealand Cruises 2012-2013
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, March 01, 2011 - 04:29 PM
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Celebrity Cruises is introducing New Zealand and Australia cruises via the Celebrity Solstice for the winter of 2012-13.
"Celebrity Solstice has satisfied guests around the world since we introduced her in 2008, and the obvious next step is to send her to Australia," said Dan Hanrahan, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. "With this move, we are delivering another way for people to have the best vacation experience possible, in one of the most stunning geographic regions of the world."
Australians will enjoy the return of the Celebrity Cruises brand to the region this coming winter with the deployment of the 1,814-guest Celebrity Century. Her subsequent replacement by the 2,850-guest Celebrity Solstice is a symbol of the premium cruise brand's ever-expanding global presence and the popularity of the service, activities, cuisine, and stylish design exemplified on its Solstice Class ships, which are frequently rated as the best by consumer- and travel agent-focused publications around the globe. Recent accolades include the Solstice Class being named among "Best Cruise Ships" by Frommers.com and Celebrity being named "Best Premium Cruise Line" and "Best Cruise Line in Europe" by the readers of Travel Weekly.
"Travelers around the world value their vacation time, and we want to give them more opportunities to enjoy Celebrity's signature attributes, including the first Lawn Club and Hot Glass show at sea, more spacious staterooms, our AquaClass staterooms geared toward the spa enthusiast lifestyle, multiple specialty restaurants, the Celebrity iLounge and state-of-the-art entertainment, in more places. The culture and way of life in Australia and New Zealand are an ideal backdrop for our Solstice Class style and the overall onboard experience."
Celebrity Solstice will transition from a 2012 summer in the Mediterranean Australia/New Zealand via the Suez Canal and through Southeast Asia before arriving in Sydney, Australia in early December. The repositioning sailings will include multiple overnights in ports including Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Cochin, India.
Upon arriving in Australia, Celebrity Solstice will present a series of 12- and 13-night open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand. The season also will include a circumnavigation of Australia, consisting of two open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Perth (Fremantle). Many of the itineraries include overnight stays in Sydney.
Celebrity Solstice will continue a series of destination-immersive onboard activities that will debut during Celebrity Century's upcoming Australia/New Zealand season; activities include local vineyard and wine shore excursions, onboard talks by local cultural entertainers and speakers, and destination-focused food and drink menus. Some activities will be complimentary.
Celebrity will continue to offer its popular Australia/New Zealand cruisetour program geared toward guests who wish to combine a land-based vacation with a cruise. Premium concierge-style service is the hallmark of Celebrity's four- and five-night pre- and post-cruise escorted land tour packages in Australia, which will visit destinations including Port Douglas (Great Barrier Reef), Ayers Rock (Uluru) and Sydney. A six-night pre-cruise New Zealand package will visit Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown and Sydney. Highlights include a full-day tour over the Great Barrier Reef and a gourmet barbecue dinner under the outback sky in Ayers Rock. All of Celebrity's cruisetours are escorted by local tour directors, and include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities, breakfast and some additional meals.
Full details will be available on March 23, when bookings for Celebrity's new 2012-13 Australia/New Zealand itineraries will open for sale. Bookings for the 1,814-guest Celebrity Century's 2011-12 Australia/New Zealand cruises are open now.
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NCL to Increase Prices on 4-1-2011
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Tuesday, March 01, 2011 - 04:03 PM
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Norwegian Cruise Line today announced that it plans to increase cruise fares up to 10% on April 1, 2011. The company also announced it will extend its "Free Upgrades For All" Sales Event through March 31, 2011. This popular Wave Season promotion provides up to a four-category upgrade on select sailings, along with e-coupons in on-board savings of up to $400. This extension will give those planning to book a cruise extra time to take advantage of this offer prior to price increases which will take effect on April 1, 2011.
"We've seen exceptional demand spurred by our Wave Season promotion, particularly for the popular summer destinations. In fact, we surpassed our weekly booking record three times in the last eight weeks," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "Based on this demand, we will increase our fares on April 1. We wanted to give consumers and travel agents the opportunity to take advantage of these offers before the price increase."
Norwegian's signature Freestyle Cruising provides extraordinary value by offering premium deployments on one of the youngest fleets in the industry, and includes an unparalleled variety of dining options along with non-stop entertainment experiences.
Travel partners should take advantage of the current pricing environment for their individual bookings and to block group space up to four months prior to sailing without paying a deposit.
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Carnival Legend Enhancements
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, February 24, 2011 - 01:04 PM
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The Carnival Legend restarted Caribbean service from Tampa this weekend after a 14-day dry dock during which a variety of enhancements were made, including a renovated childrenâs pool area, and the addition of Serenity, an exclusive adults-only retreat.
Carnival Legend became the 13th Carnival ship to feature a Serenity area. Designed as an oasis for tranquility and relaxation, Serenity offers colorful, oversized umbrellas, comfortable chaise lounges and chairs, whirlpools, a full bar and breathtaking sea views.
The shipâs childrenâs pool area now features colorful new tiles in vibrant sea-animal designs, while the casino has been reconfigured with additional slot machines and poker tables. Other enhancements include new upholstery and chairs in the Lido restaurant, dining room and dance club.
Carnival Legend sails to the Caribbean on year-round seven-day sailings from Tampa.
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Carnival Splendor Repaired, Resumes Mexican Riviera Cruises 2-20-2011
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Friday, February 18, 2011 - 01:43 PM
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After completing repairs in a San Francisco dry dock facility and successfully undergoing sea trials, the 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor is now en route to its homeport of Long Beach, Calif., where it will resume its year-round schedule of seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises Feb. 20, 2011.
On this route, the ship departs the Long Beach Cruise Terminal every Sunday on week-long cruises to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, on Mexicoâs Pacific Coast.
With the Carnival Splendorâs resumption of service, combined with the Carnival Paradiseâs year-round three- and four-day Baja voyages, Carnival Cruise Lines will return to its normal passenger volume from Long Beach, carrying nearly 400,000 passengers a year.
âCarnival Cruise Lines continues to be the number one West Coast operator with two ships based in Long Beach year-round, as well as a ship operating seasonal itineraries from San Diego and Los Angeles. We have more year-round capacity dedicated to the West Coast than any other cruise line and we are committed to maintaining our leadership position in this important market,â said Gerry Cahill, Carnivalâs president and CEO.
Cahill noted that the Carnival Splendor has been thoroughly inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard and Lloydâs Registry, a ship classification society, which monitored the repair process during dry docks in San Diego and San Francisco.
âWeâre obviously very pleased that the Carnival Splendor is returning to service and weâre looking forward to welcoming our guests aboard this fantastic ship,â Cahill said. âWe would also like to thank our guests for their patience over the past few weeks, as well as our travel agent partners, the ports of San Diego and San Francisco and all of the government agencies, repair contractors and countless others who have provided invaluable assistance and support.â
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Splendorâs seven-day sailings from Long Beach.
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Celebrity Summit New Features
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, February 17, 2011 - 11:17 PM
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Celebrity Summit became the third in Celebrity Cruises' much-loved Millennium Class quartet to complete a significant "Solsticizing," the term the line coined for its initiative to complement its Milllennium Class ships' style and design with some of the most popular attributes found on its widely heralded Solstice Class ships. Among the multiple highlights: the coveted AquaClass, Celebrity's soothing, spa-inspired veranda-category accommodations, paired with the chic, Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, "Blu," offered exclusively for AquaClass guests; the virtually indescribable 'Qsine' specialty restaurant, and the hip 'Celebrity iLounge.'
"Based on the phenomenal response we've had from guests who have sailed on the 'Solsticized' Celebrity Constellation, we're eager to introduce the same new features - ranging from the 'Cellarmasters' wine bar to our signature 'icy' Martini Bar to our cool Café al Bacio and Gelateria - and even more on Celebrity Summit," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "We recognize that consumers' vacation time is precious, which inspires us to do everything we can to make their vacation with Celebrity Cruises something that is truly different and better than anything they've experienced before."
A Celebrity exclusive - "Qsine," the novel restaurant introduced on Celebrity Eclipse last year, and set to debut on Celebrity Infinity following the ship's revitalization in December 2011 - will be presented on Celebrity Summit, too. The first restaurant at sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPadTM, Qsine has been described in press reviews as "the latest and most innovative restaurant," "cutting-edge," "appealingly quirky," "menu-tainment," "entertainment and dining rolled into one," "like a rollercoaster with a tablecloth" and simply, "defying description." Qsine features playful, delectable options including a vertical selection of savory tapas and mezze served individually in custom-made frames, a trio of chilled soups delivered shot-style, and spring rolls served in springs. All are described in detail on the iPad-housed menu and wine list, which offers a full scan of wine labels, an interactive cocktail menu, and the ability for guests to enter tasting notes and e-mail their favorite wine selections. Joining AquaClass, Blu and Qsine in the "Solsticizing" of Celebrity Summit will be:
* the hip iLounge, which debuted on Celebrity Eclipse and made Celebrity Cruises the industry's first Authorized Apple Reseller, and where guests can participate in Celebrity's "iLearn" enrichment series
* a "cool" new ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush
* the vibrant creperie, Bistro on Five
* the inviting Café al Bacio and Gelateria
* Cellarmasters wine bar, complete with the "Enomatic" state-of-the-art wine serving system - an industry-first when it debuted on Celebrity Solstice - allowing guests to select wines by the glass, at the touch of a button
* entirely new verandas added to the ship's spacious, luxurious Celebrity Suites
* even more sumptuous suites, courtesy of all new furniture, flat-screen TVs, upholstery, bedding and carpeting - and, as offered with every suite with Celebrity Cruises, 24/7 butler service
* restyled staterooms, with entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding
* new color schemes, carpeting and upholstery reflective of the Solstice Class' stylish,modern design in every public venue
* additional new oceanview and inside staterooms
* an expanded collection of original, contemporary art
As previously announced, sister ship Celebrity Infinity will emerge from a scheduled drydock period December 3, 2011, with all the Solstice-inspired enhancements planned for Celebrity Summit.
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Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition 2011 - Two Princess Chefs Win Awards
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 - 04:06 PM
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A pair of Princess Cruises chefs have taken first place in two culinary categories at the Sixth Annual Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition.
Pacific Princess Executive Chef Antonio Cortese received top honors in the "Heart Healthy" category for his Red Snapper Mojito, while Coral Princess Sous Chef Abelardo Alvarez won the "Vegetarian" category with his Deep Fried Sushi with Bacardi Wasabi Emulsion and Spicy Kimchi.
The award-winning recipes were selected from more than 1,600 entries submitted for the prestigious beverage and culinary competition. Using criteria such as presentation, taste, creativity, appeal and ease of preparation, a judging panel of culinary experts winnowed down the field and chose the best recipe in each of five categories.
Passengers aboard Pacific Princess during her just-launched world cruise will have an opportunity to sample Executive Chef Cortese's Red Snapper Mojito when it is served as a special heart-healthy appetizer. Chef Alvarez's winning entry, Deep Fried Sushi with Bacardi Wasabi Emulsion and Spicy Kimchi will also be served to passengers on a regular basis on board Coral Princess.
"We're tremendously proud of both chefs for demonstrating such culinary excellence," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "It's always a great honor to be singled out from one's peers and receive industry acknowledgement of the creativity that enhances our passengers' experience. We congratulate them on this achievement."
The Bacardi Bartender & Chef Cruise Competition, an international event open to all bartenders and chefs in the cruise and ferry industry, requires bartenders and chefs to create original recipes using Bacardi products. The goals of the competition are to "support the cruise industry and its talented artisans, recognize innovation onboard the world's best cruise and ferry lines, and foster a path for staff to further their trade expertise".
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Crystal Cruises Alaska 2011 Cruises New Excursions
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Monday, February 14, 2011 - 03:28 PM
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Crystal Cruises is offering new Alaska excursions for 2011 that extend way beyond shore. Think air, sea, and ice â with more than half its 100+ Crystal Adventures brand new.
Guests can explore the stateâs waterways by safari boat, private catamaran, whitewater raft, canoe, kayak, or WWII duck vehicle. View the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife by seaplane or helicopter, or stay planted on terra firma in a horse-drawn trolley, ATV, jeep, sled, motorcycle, old-fashioned railcar, private Hummer, or Unimog 4x4.
Sitka Sound Science Center VolunteeringâA new âYou Care, We Careâ excursion enables guests to assist with the operation/maintenance of a salmon hatchery or marine-life exhibits.
Champagne & Glaciers by HelicopterÂâCascade over mountain passes and alpine meadows before indulging in champagne and chocolate atop a centuries-old glacier.
White Pass Scenic Railway & Bike RideâRide 100-year-old parlor cars through vertical granite cliffs before biking down the Klondike Summit.
Extreme adventurists can rock climb, flyfish, or zipline over rainforest canopies. Amateur Ansel Adamses can shutterbug away on custom photography excursions. Families can pan for gold, create 24K gold glass-blown art, golf, or scout for killer whales, bald eagles, or bears. History buffs will love adventures profiling bordellos and shoot-outs, native traditions, Alaskaâs Russian past, and even Sarah Palinâs childhood home.
Gourmet, local cuisine like alderwood-smoked salmon, fresh halibut chowder, and all-you-can-eat crab will be showcased Crystal-style via cooking classes, wilderness camp dining, and a five-course, Alaskan Chefâs Table in Ketchikan.
Guests seeking an ultra-intimate, individualized travel experiences can sail through the island-studded waters of Sitka Sound on a private sightseeing/wildlife expedition via deluxe catamaranâjust for you and your loved ones, with personal Captain and expert naturalist to guide you.
Crystal Symphony will make nine 12-day sailings round-trip from San Francisco from May through August to Victoria, Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan and either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay.
Per-person, Two-for-One fares begin at $4,650, including free air transportation from many U.S./Canadian gateways (or $400 air discount) plus $500 spending credits. A Verandah and Penthouse sale, Crystal Family Memories group perks, and bonus Bring-a-Friend program offer additional savings.
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Princess Grand Princess Cruise Ship to Undergo Renovations
Posted by: CruiseReporter on Thursday, February 10, 2011 - 03:03 PM
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The Princess Grand Princess cruise ship will undertake a. 24-day renovation to receive many of Princess' trademark features introduced since the ship's 1998 debut including the signature Piazza atrium. Several new features will be also be added including a unique tea lounge and library called "Leaves"; and "Alfredo's," a full-service pizzeria showcasing this renowned Princess dish.
A brand new nightclub called One5, inspired by its deck location, will be created on the top deck of the ship, replacing its iconic Skywalker Nightclub, which has given the ship its distinctive profile. Skywalkers will be removed from its 18th deck perch, with its replacement located on deck 15. This change will significantly improve the operational performance of the ship, including greater fuel efficiency.
"This is the largest makeover we've ever undertaken for any of our ships," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "When Grand Princess was launched she was the most innovative ship at sea, and now we're adding some of the later innovations we introduced on subsequent ships."
Artist renderings of the Grand Princess changes are available in a Flickr gallery at: http://bit.ly/g0JA8I.
The changes will be made during a drydock from April 11 to May 4 at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas. Highlights of the dramatic makeover include:
New Piazza atrium -- The atrium space of Grand Princess will be completely rebuilt to include this signature Princess feature -- a multi-faceted social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza will feature the International Café for pastries, grilled panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers will also enjoy a new Vines wine bar offering a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass, plus a selection of tapas and sushi, and a wine shop where passengers can purchase their favorite bottle.
Leaves Tea Lounge and Library -- A fusion of tea lounge and library, the new Leaves offers a distinctive opportunity for passengers to custom-blend a variety of base teas with herbs, fruits and spices to create a personalized tea blend. Created in partnership with Mighty Leaf Tea Company, one of the world's premier maker of artisan teas, Leaves will give passengers an impressive choice of up to 500 different tea blends to suit their palates. A trained tea sommelier will assist passengers in blending a personalized tea creation, which they can enjoy in the midst of the library and a good book.
Alfredo's Pizzeria -- Known for serving the best pizza at sea, Princess will introduce Alfredo's, a new sit-down pizzeria with an enticing menu of freshly prepared individual-size pizzas. Named for the line's master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria will feature an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create the pizzas they'll enjoy with a glass of wine or other beverage.
One5 Lounge -- The new One5 lounge will replace Skywalkers as the place to be for nighttime dancing and relaxing. The new lounge on deck 15 (hence its name) takes its inspiration from the chicest urban nightclubs, and will offer a cool vibe, contemporary seating and lighting, and a dramatic back-lit bar.
Crown Grill -- A classic steakhouse with rich wood surroundings, this specialty restaurant features an open, theater-style kitchen where chefs custom-prepare premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, including lobster.
Also part of the renovation will be 10 new suites; remodeled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner's Martini Lounge.
The newly renovated Grand Princess will debut on May 5 in Ft. Lauderdale where the ship will depart on a transatlantic crossing for her summer and fall homeport of Southampton, from which she will cruise a variety of European itineraries.
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