Disney Cruises from California 2008

Posted 01/18/07

Back By Popular Demand...Disney Cruise Line Returns to the West Coast in 2008! Disney Cruise Line® is pleased to announce that the Disney Magic® cruise ship will return to the West Coast for the summer of 2008 to once again offer seven-night cruise vacations to the Mexican Riviera! Beginning May 25, 2008, the Disney Magic is scheduled to sail 12 consecutive seven-night cruise vacations from the Port of Los Angeles to Mexican Riviera ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. In addition to the 12 Mexican Riviera cruises, Disney Cruise Line will also offer two 15-night repositioning cruises through the Panama Canal. The Disney Magic will depart Port Canaveral and head west on May 10, 2008, with the return cruise to Florida scheduled for Aug. 17, 2008. This marks the second time the 2,700 passenger ship has sailed from the Port of Los Angeles, giving your Clients another opportunity to sail this popular itinerary and providing West Coast residents with a prime opportunity to experience a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Both special itineraries are available for booking starting Jan. 31, 2007

Regent Seven Seas to Explore the South Pacific

Posted 01/23/07

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering 37 cruises through the South Pacific in 2007 aboard its Paul Gauguin, which sails French Polynesia year-round. Through 37 seven- to 14-night sailings, the Paul Gauguin will explore the Society Islands' Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea; the Marquesas and the Tuamotus; and beyond to the Cook Islands and Fiji. In 2007, four newly added 14-night voyages offer the opportunity to sail beyond French Polynesia to Fiji, for maiden calls in Savusavu, Lautoka and Yasawa. During these four new voyages, guests may learn about ancient Polynesian culture in Aitutaki and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands; discover the exquisite reefs of Yasawa (Fiji); explore the terraced burial tombs of ancient Tongan kings in Nuku'alofa; and visit Regent's own private islet, Motu Mahana. A selection of other seven- to 14-night itineraries will sail throughout the Society, Tuamotu, Marquesas, Cook and Austral Islands, all roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti. Regent has carried more than 100,000 guests through the South Pacific on the Paul Gauguin, now in its 10th year of uninterrupted sailing in the region. The 330-guest, all-ocean view Paul Gauguin underwent a $6 million refurbishment in 2006, including the addition of a new piano bar, five additional staterooms with aft-facing private balconies, remodeled casino and new fabrics and carpeting throughout public areas. Amenities include three single, open seating dining venues, complimentary water sports from the vessel's own retractable marina with an optional PADI dive program, and the Carita of Paris Spa. In summer, the ship boasts a joint program with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society, called "Ambassadors of the Environment" youngsters aged 9-15. The program is offered for $199 per child. For adults, six sailings will feature onboard lecture programs with naturalists from the Ocean Futures Society, while Jean-Michel Cousteau himself will sail aboard the Nov. 18 voyage. Per person prices start at $1,995 for the seven-night roundtrip cruise of the Society Islands from Papeete. For more information, call 800-913-7245. From ModernAgent.com

MSC - KIDS SAIL FREE IN THE MED 2007

Posted 01/26/07

MSC Cruises is offering a selection of Mediterranean cruises on which children under 18 years of age sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. The MSC Orchestra, which enters service in May, offers an Eastern Mediterranean itinerary that begins in Venice every Saturday from June 2 through Oct. 27. Ports of call are Bari, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik.

"Best Room, Best Rate" rates begin at $995 per person, double; government fees and taxes are additional. The MSC Armonia offers "The Pearls of Greece and Croatia," departing Venice every Sunday from April 1 through Oct. 28, calling at Bari, Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus, Corfu and Dubrovnik. Rates begin at $995. The MSC Musica departs Barcelona every Friday from March through Oct. 26, calling at Naples, Palermo, Tunis, Palma de Mallorca, Genoa and Marseilles. Rates begin at $995. The MSC Sinfonia departs every Monday from Genoa or every Sunday from Rome (Civitavecchia) from April 2 through Nov. 12, calling at Monte Carlo, Valencia, La Valletta and Tunis. Rates begin at $895. The MSC Melody departs Barcelona every Monday and Livorno every Saturday from April 9 through Oct. 27, also calling at Messina, Naples, St. Tropez, Ibiza and Tunis. Rates begin at $795.

Disney World Unveils New "Million Dreams" Attractions

Posted 01/29/07

New technologies, interactive online tools and in-park experiences are making Walt Disney World vacations more personal and taking guest service to a new level during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration. New attractions introduced last week as part of the "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion include "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction at Epcot. Guests can engage in live, unrehearsed dialogue with Crush, the turtle from the film "Finding Nemo." New technology enables other stars from the movie to appear to swim with the marine life in the 5.7-million-gallon aquarium.

Through immersive and interactive features, guests at "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club," opening this spring in Magic Kingdom, will be able to participate in the show by text messaging jokes from their cell phone for possible use in the show. This live, unscripted entertainment experience currently in development is the next generation of real-time animation that uses digital projection and voice-activated animation.

Unused space within the Magic Kingdom originally envisioned as in-park accommodations for the Disney family has been transformed into Cinderella Castle Suite -- a place where Walt Disney World guests can now spend a night amid surroundings that hark back to the 17th century fairytale and the French chateaus that inspired the design of Cinderella Castle. Eligible Walt Disney World guests will be selected randomly at one of the theme parks or Downtown Disney, as part of the "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion, by early afternoon most days now through the end of 2007. The guest and up to five members of their party begin their evening at Cinderella's Royal Table, the restaurant located in Cinderella Castle before settling into their suite, located four stories above the surrounding Magic Kingdom. The suite includes a salon, bedchamber and bathroom off a private marble-floored foyer, all replete with rich details.

New concepts designed to help tailor guests' vacation experiences include: Disney's new PhotoPass albums with online scrapbooking tools and the ability to combine personal photos with professional photos taken by Disney's PhotoPass team as well as add different backgrounds and personalize text. Disney's online concierge at Disney's Contemporary Resort lets vacationers order room service, play games, make tee times and more right from their own hotel rooms. This interactive service is currently in pilot testing. Through advances in wireless communication, Pal Mickey, a huggable plush toy, acts as a tour guide at each of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort. Offering timesaving tips, trivia, fun facts and more, Pal Mickey helps navigate the parks so guests get the most out of their time in the parks.

A new Walt Disney World after-hours event began in Magic Kingdom Jan. 22, 2007, with Disney's Pirate and Princess Party, a treasure hunt for items like chocolate doubloons and colorful beads. Guests can explore pirate coves and princess courts filled with themed entertainment, participate in character meet-and-greets and enjoy Magic Kingdom attractions open throughout the evening. Guests are invited to dress up in a favorite princess gown or pirate garb to add to the fun. Adding to the magic of the immersive event will be two new nighttime entertainment spectaculars, "Disney's Enchanted Adventures Parade" and "Magic, Music and Mayhem," a fireworks display orchestrated to an original musical score. Other party highlights include a dance party, haunted riverboat, court musicians, jugglers and more. Day-of tickets are priced at $42.95 plus tax, for ages 10 and over, $35.95 plus tax, for ages three to nine. Advance tickets for all nights are $36.95 plus tax, for ages 10 and over and $29.95 plus tax, for ages three to nine. Party nights: Jan. 22, 26, 29, Feb. 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 23, 26 and March 2, 5, 8 from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Also new at the Disney World is the "High School Musical Pep Rally," a new immersive show for the whole family now at Disney-MGM Studios as part of "The Year of a Million Dreams." Throughout the park, a multi-talented team of entertainers re-creates the world of East High. Theme park guests may find themselves shooting hoops or joining in as the whole street turns into a rockin' party while great songs fill the air, from "Breaking Free" and "Getcha Head in the Game" to "We're All in This Together.  Book today!  Call 800-913-7245 or visit www.planmycruise.com

Crystal Debuts 2008 Cruise Adventures

Posted 01/30/07

Crystal Cruises has posted most of the details of its 295 World Cruise Adventures online, about 15 months before the Jan. 19 departure of the 108-day 2008 World Cruise. The shore excursions, which can be viewed online at www.crystalcruises.com, include a hike through Oahu's Ko'olau Mountains, a culinary journey into New Zealand's Wairarapa region, and a river rafting adventure in Borneo's Ulu Temburong National Park. There are 82 new shore tours debuting during the Crystal's 13th annual World Cruise. The World Cruise excursions will be available for booking by Feb. 15.

Traveling from Los Angeles to Southampton, England, Jan. 19 to May 7, 2008, the World Cruise includes a complimentary tour on each of the voyage's eight segments and 24 overland adventures offering multiple-night in-depth experiences. The 2008 World Cruise is also available in the following segments: 13 days from Los Angeles to Papeete visiting Hawaii and South Pacific; 11 days from Papeete to Auckland visiting the South Pacific and New Zealand; 14 days from Auckland to Sydney visiting New Zealand and Australia; 17 days from Sydney to Hong Kong visiting Australia and China; 12 days from Hong Kong to Singapore visiting China, Vietnam and Thailand; 14 days from Singapore to Mumbai visiting Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar and India; 16 days from Mumbai to Rome visiting the Middle East and the Mediterranean; 11 days from Rome to London visiting the Mediterranean. World Value Fares for individual segments begin at $4,890 per person, double occupancy. Crystal also offers specially priced air fares to guests booking any World Cruise segment

From: Modern Agent

Princess to show superbowl on BIG SCREEN

Posted 01/31/07

Princess Cruises' ships will host a tailgate party at sea on Feb. 4 and show Super Bowl XLI on the 300-square-foot outdoor screen. Passengers aboard Caribbean Princess, Crown Princess, Sea Princess and Grand Princess will be able to follow the action between the Chicago Bears and Indianapolis Colts, broadcast by ESPN International, while enjoying chili, pigs-in-a-blanket, hamburgers, pizza, and other munchies. Most Princess ships without the jumbo outdoor screens will also show the game, depending on satellite availability, and host Super Bowl parties in one or more of the public lounges.

Source: Modern Agent

Romance is in the Air Aboard Princess Ships at Valentine's Day

Posted 02/01/07

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (February 1, 2007) - Princess ships are the perfect place to celebrate love any time of year, but the romantically-inclined will find Valentine's Day celebrations aboard the "Love Boat" fleet particularly inspiring.  This is when the company's ships take on an even more amorous air with festive décor, couples renewing their wedding vows, and a variety of events to add an extra romantic touch.

One of the most memorable events held each year aboard each Princess ship is a group renewal of vows ceremony performed by the captain on February 14.  More than 5,000 couples fleetwide typically celebrate their love by participating in this Valentine's Day tradition.

Other heart-themed shipboard festivities include a festive Valentine's dinner capped off by one of the line's most popular desserts "The Princess Love Boat Dream," a Valentine's rendition of the "Newlywed and Not-So-Newlywed Game," a Valentine's Singles Party, Hearts card game lessons and tournament, a special honeymooners cocktail party, romance-themed films and plenty of other activities in keeping with the Valentine's spirit.

True romantics looking for special ways to celebrate can also take advantage of some of the extra offerings on board.  Princess' Champagne Breakfast is the perfect way for couples to start Valentine's Day with a deluxe morning meal in their stateroom.  Princess bars will be serving a Cupid's Champagne Cocktail - a romantic concoction of coconut rum, passion fruit, orange juice and sparkling wine that makes for a perfect Valentine's toast.  Onboard florists will have a variety of special blooms available for those who want to present a bouquet to their sweetheart.  And, for those who want to start their commitment to a life together on this memorable day, Princess' special "Engagement Under the Stars" packages enable suitors to create a dramatic video proposal shown on the "Movies Under the Stars" screen on Crown Princess, Caribbean Princess, Grand Princess or Sea Princess.  Couples will enjoy movie-star status, plus enjoy a special romantic dinner, and other amenities to remember the occasion long after they return home.

"Princess has long been synonymous with love and romance," said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president.  "So Valentine's Day is a special day across our fleet and we're delighted to offer our passengers very special ways to express their affection for each other."

For the ultimate Valentine's Day, couples can actually "tie the knot" at sea, with the rare opportunity to celebrate a romantic wedding ceremony on the ocean waves, with the ship's captain officiating.  Princess is the only major North American cruise line that makes this dream a reality, offering a variety of customizable ceremony options, including, on larger vessels, an onboard wedding chapel decorated in flowers and candlelight for the special day.

Princess ships will be celebrating Valentine's Day in a variety of destinations around the world.  Couples may choose to sail among romantic islands, such as those of the Caribbean, Hawaii and Tahiti.  Or they may explore such exciting locals as South America, the Panama Canal, the Mexican Riviera, or Australia and New Zealand

MS Presents Expanded Caribbean Sailings for 2007 - 2008

Posted 02/02/07

MSC Cruises is presenting an expanded mix of cruise lengths and itineraries in the Caribbean for the 2007- 2008 winter season. The season begins when MSC Lirica departs Genoa, Italy, on Nov. 17 on a 17-night transatlantic cruise that includes port calls at Barcelona, Casablanca, Tenerife, Bridgetown, St. George, Fort de France and San Juan and nine sea days before arriving in Fort Lauderdale. Rates begin at $1,249 per person, double occupancy. The new Caribbean program of roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale includes two seven-night Western Caribbean cruises departing Dec. 14 and Dec. 28; one seven-night Eastern Caribbean holiday cruise departing Dec. 21; five 10-night Mexico/Panama cruises departing Jan. 19, Feb. 8, Feb. 28 and March 19; and four 10-night Deep Caribbean cruises departing Dec. 4, Jan. 9, Jan. 29, Feb. 18 and March 9. On each sailing, kids 17 and under sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. MSC Cruises' Caribbean season will end with a 17-night transatlantic cruise to Dover, departing Fort Lauderdale on March 29, 2008.

Crystal Books Speakers James Carville, Mary Matalin

Posted 02/02/07

Crystal Cruises booked political commentators James Carville and Mary Matalin as guest lecturers on the Crystal Serenity's 12-day July 26 cruise from Venice to Rome. The husband and wife are Democrat and Republican, respectively, and this cruise marks the couple's second voyage with Crystal in as many years. Carville and Matalin's lecture series is titled "A Walk Through the Races…Where They're Going…What to Make of This Historic Time." Carville is a well-known member of Hillary Clinton's inner circle, and Matalin is planning to announce her Republican candidate of choice by the time of this cruise. The dynamic duo will square off with political views -- from the Left and the Right -- during several debates. The July 26 cruise begins in Venice, with an overnight stay aboard ship. From there, the itinerary features calls in Dubrovnik, Croatia; Taormina and Sorrento, Italy; Cannes (overnight), France; Florence/Livorno and Portofino, Italy, ultimately arriving in Rome on Aug. 7. Fares begin at $5,495 per person, double occupancy.  Call 800-913-7245 to book your cabin today!

HAL Alaska Tours Now Are Roundtrip from Vancouver

Posted 02/07/07

Holland America Line "Glacier Bay & Great Land Grand Tours" now arrive and depart from Vancouver, B.C. The 19- and 20-day cruise-tours, which combine a seven-day cruise with a land tour, previously started in Vancouver and ended in Seattle or visa versa. "Flying in and out of Vancouver, B.C. has made these cruise-tours much more convenient for guests, which has increased their popularity. It greatly improves the ability to make excellent air arrangements," said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs.

The tours include two nights in Denali, Dawson City, Whitehorse and Anchorage and the 20-day cruise-tour. Guests may opt for small group exploration of Kluane National Park, home of five of the seven tallest peaks in North America; Tombstone Park near Dawson; and the heart of the Alaskan Interior, Denali National Park. Grand Tours also include one night in Tok, Fairbanks and Skagway. The "Glacier Bay & Great Land Grand Tours" start at $3,499 per person, double occupancy.

Source: Modern Agent

Crystal Cruises Offers 679 European Excursions

Posted 02/07/07

Crystal Cruises this summer will introduce more than 100 new Crystal Adventures in Europe. On Feb. 15, all 679 shore excursions will be posted online for preview and booking. From April 7 through Nov. 9, the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will offer 29 itineraries ranging from seven to 14 days. All shore tours can be researched, priced and pre-reserved online prior to departure.

New tour highlights include an overnight journey to Berlin by train from Hamburg, a visit to the new Porsche Factory Leipzig for a Cayenne test drive on the factory's race track from Warnemünde, a MiG fighter jet flight over Moscow extended to a two-night overland adventure from St. Petersburg, a speedboat adventure in the Baltic Sea from Helsinki, and bicycling excursions in Amsterdam, Hamburg, Funchal and the South of France. Crystal's European cruises depart from Athens, Greece; Copenhagen, Denmark; Istanbul, Turkey; London, England; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Rome, Italy; Stockholm, Sweden; Toulon, France; and Venice, Italy. Pre- and post-cruise hotel stays are available in all cities except Toulon. Depending on itinerary selected, per person, double occupancy fares begin at $2,780. Call 800-913-7245 to book today!

Source: Modern Agent

Princess Cruises Debuts Romance Department

Posted 02/09/07

Princess Cruises is creating a new "Department of Romance" that includes a team of romance experts and is launching a number of romantic pursuits on its ships and on its website. The creation of the department is in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the hit TV series "The Love Boat," famously set aboard a Princess ship.

Princess has tapped noted relationship experts to serve in its new Department of Romance. They include dating and romance guru Trish McDermott, therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer, wedding planner Alba Carreras, and Gavin MacLeod, who portrayed Capt. Stubing on "The Love Boat."

The department has planned a variety of romantic pursuits scheduled to launch throughout the year. One new feature is the "Romance by Room Service" package, which includes champagne and chocolate, scattered fresh rose petals and flameless scented candles, all set to a background of romantic music. Couples can choose to add the line's "Ultimate Balcony Dinner." Princess will also introduce an entertaining new class for its ScholarShip@Sea learning program, offering instruction on becoming a "Certified Romantic." The course will offer tools on how couples can rediscover romance, as well as tips for sustaining romance long after passengers return home from their cruise. Also, in-stateroom Romance TV programming will feature classic movies such as "An Affair to Remember" and "Sleepless in Seattle." The daily Princess Patter program will also feature a romantic tip or quotation to inspire affection.

In addition, a new section of the Princess website will be devoted exclusively to the subject of romance, with tips, Q&As, resource information for romantic travelers, articles from the department experts and more. A semi-annual Princess Romance Report will debut on Feb. 14, in which the company's romance experts sound off on the "state of love" with facts, stats and forecasted trends. These programs, to be launched with the debut of Emerald Princess in April, will join Princess' lineup of amenities and services for travelers with romance on their minds. Among them are weddings at sea performed by the ship's captain and the "Engagement Under the Stars" program for passengers who want to pop the question with a surprise video-taped proposal on the ship's 300-square-foot LED Movies Under the Stars screen.  To plan your romance cruise on Princess, Call 800-913-7245.

Carnival's Imagination Offers New Caribbean Tour

Posted 02/12/07

The destinations of Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk and Nassau will be featured on a new three-port, five-day itinerary operated by Carnival Cruise Lines' 2,052-passenger Imagination. The new itinerary, which begins Aug. 13, 2007, is the latest enhancement to the ship's year-round four- and five-day Caribbean cruise program from Miami. In addition to the new three-port five-day itinerary departing Mondays, the Imagination's four-day cruises departing Thursdays call at Key West, and Calica, Mexico; while five-day cruises departing Saturdays visit George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Catering to the growing family market, the Imagination also features "Camp Carnival" and "Club O2," supervised programs for children and teens, respectively, as well as a nine-hole miniature golf course, and the "Water Wars" water balloon attraction. Carnival will begin accepting reservations for the Imagination's new five-day itinerary today.

Deilmann Offers Seine, Rhône River Cruises

Posted 02/15/07

Seven-night cruises from Paris on the Seine on the five-star MV Cezanne and from Lyon on the Rhône and Saône rivers on the four-star MV Princesse de Provence to Burgundy and Beaujolais wine regions and Provencal cities are among the European river sailings of Peter Deilmann Cruises that begin March 24 and continue through Nov. 10. The weekly Seine River cruises aboard the 50-cabin Cezanne sail to Les Andelys, the small town of Caudebec-en-Caux, the ancient city of Rouen with its cathedral and Musée des Beaux-Arts with paintings by Impressionists Monet, Sisley, Boudin and Pisarro and the charming town of Vernon to visit Giverney. The Cezanne cruises provide overnight stays on the ship in Paris, Caudebec-en-Caux and Rouen. Most of the cruises sail roundtrip; three will sail one way from Paris to Rouen and three from Rouen to Paris. These six will feature two nights on board ship in Paris.
Deilmann's optional package of Seine excursions -- a Paris city tour, the ruins of Château Gaillard at Les Andelys, the seaside village of Honfleur with its rich artistic and historic heritage, Rouen and the home and gardens of Impressionist painter Claude Monet at Giverny -- cost just $205 when purchased in advance. Among the ports of call on the Saône and Rhône cruises sailing from Lyon on the Princesse de Provence are Tournus, Chalon-sur-Saône, Macon, Trévoux, Tournon, Avignon and Arles. Optional excursions take passengers along Burgundy and Beaujolais wine routes.

Passengers can tour the Burgundy wine region visiting medieval Beaune, center of the wine trade. At Mâcon, there is a choice of excursions to the remains of the 12th century abbey at Cluny or to the wine-growing region of the Maconnais and a wine tasting. From Trévoux, there is an opportunity to tour the Saône valley and the vineyards and villages of Beaujolais wines.

In Arles, passengers have a full day to explore the city's many Roman antiquities or visit the Camargue, the nature reserve that is home to herds of white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos. Within the walled city of Avignon are the 14th century papal palace, 12th century cathedral, late Gothic churches, museums, elegant town houses and cardinal's palaces.

Deilmann offers five different cruise tours on its French cruises, both independent and escorted. One of the most popular is the 16-day "Exploring France" cruise tour that combines the Seine and Rhône cruises into one itinerary. The 15-night program begins in Lyon, ends in Paris, provides a TGV train connection from Lyon to Paris and includes 11 shore excursions. There are seven departures between April 6 and Oct. 26 and prices start at $3,100 per person double. Among escorted cruise tours is a 12-day "Coast of Normandy" program that combines a Seine cruise with three nights in Deauville at the Hotel Normandie Barriere with daily breakfast, four sightseeing tours, five shore excursions and the services of an experienced tour manager. Departures begin May 9 and prices start at $4,199 per person, double occupancy. The cruise line's "Discovery Add-ons," also allow travelers to extend their stay at a choice of destinations.

Special interest theme cruises on the Cezanne and Princesse de Provence offer biking, hiking, gardens and golf. New hiking programs are part of five cruises on the Seine and Rhône with departures between May 19 and Sept. 22. Four Cezanne sailings between June 2 and Aug. 18 offer biking theme programs, two garden themes are scheduled in June and two golf theme cruises depart Sept. 15 and Oct. 6.

Cruise-only rates for seven-night sailings on the Cezanne range from $1,525 to $2,595 per person for a twin-bedded cabin. Princesse de Provence cruises are priced from $1,375 to $2,200 per person for a twin cabin. Deilmann arranges air transportation, meet and greet service and transfers between airports and ships. Details on all the river ships and cruises and the Great Rivers of Europe 2007 brochure are available from Cruise Planners 800-913-7245.

Queen Mary 2's 2007-2008 Caribbean Season Sets Sail from the Big Apple

Posted 02/15/07

VALENCIA, CA - February 15, 2007 - As Queen Mary 2 continues to significantly expand her presence in New York, Cunard Line announces an extended series of 12 ten-day voyages to the Caribbean from the Big Apple, as well as two 13-day sailings to Panama and the Caribbean and a 14-day Caribbean Celebration voyage featuring Christmas Day at sea and New Year's Eve in the port of St. Thomas.  Like Queen Mary 2's legendary Transatlantic crossings, these voyages resonate with the singular elegance and sophistication of a Cunard ocean liner experience.  In addition, the ship's faster speed allows her to sail farther south than other ships out of New York, affording more Southern Caribbean port stops, such as Barbados, on ten-day voyages.
     
Offering easier access than ever from her homeport of New York, the 2007 - 2008 itineraries showcase an array of less-traveled ports while delivering a more glamorous experience.  Cunard voyages are renowned for their luxurious surroundings, exceptional dining and signature White Star Service^SM.  These signature services, together with the opportunity to explore and discover alongside like-minded travelers, result in a thrilling experience for first-time and longtime cruisers.
 
"With our 2007-2008 New York-based Caribbean itineraries, we're offering seamless access for those residing in the Northeast to experience the already iconic Queen Mary 2 adventure plus coveted, leisurely sea days that are a hallmark of Cunard voyages," said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line.
     
In 2007 and 2008, Cunard will offer more than a dozen Caribbean voyages sailing roundtrip from New York.  Ranging in length from ten to 14 days, these journeys include:
     
Connoisseur's Caribbean - A total of 12 departures (from Oct. 31, 2007 - April 6, 2008) featuring ten days with stops in the picturesque ports of Tortola, St. Kitts, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Thomas.
     
Caribbean Celebration -  A 14-day voyage departing Dec. 20, coinciding with the Christmas and New Year's holidays, with stops in Tortola, St. Maarten, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Thomas.
     
Panama and the Caribbean - Two 13-day voyages departing Feb. 2 and March 24, 2008, with stops in Costa Rica, Panama, Curacao, Bonaire, St. Lucia and St. Thomas.
    
Whether their interests lie in marine life, history, architecture or cuisine, guests plying the crystal waters of the Caribbean will find numerous diversions ashore.  For nature enthusiasts, Bridgetown, Barbados is of tremendous appeal.  Popular attractions that showcase the island's abundant tropical flora include Flower Forest, Orchid World and Andromeda Gardens.  Historians enjoy a tour of Gun Hill, a former British lookout post, and Sunbury Plantation House, a 300-year-old sugar estate.  In the picturesque colonial city of Basseterre, St. Kitts, the 17th century Brimstone Hill Fortress affords magnificent views of the coast and neighboring Caribbean islands.  Other popular stops include Romney Gardens, and its well-known batik studio, and Mt. Liamuiga, the island's highest peak.  In Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, guests can explore this popular U.S. Virgin Islands port both above and below the sea.  Its close proximity to St. John (home to the Virgin Islands National Park) makes it ideal for hiking eco-tourists while sun-bathers enjoy unwinding on Magens Bay, considered one of the world's ten most beautiful beaches.  Blackbeard's Castle, shopping in Charlotte Amalie and Coral World are other popular shore excursions.
   
Fares for Queen Mary 2's 2007-2008 Caribbean voyages start from $1,499 per person, based on double occupancy.

Onboard Queen Mary 2, guests dance the night away in the Queens Room - the largest ballroom at sea - and enjoy Caribbean-themed balls during voyages to the region.  Guest also revel in extravagant musical productions in spacious theatres, enjoy the vast selection of 8,000 books in the largest library at sea, take a ride through the Cosmos in the only planetarium at sea, engage in stimulating activities and fascinating lectures, and savor superb gourmet dining prepared by world-class chefs.      
     
For more information about Queen Mary 2's 2007 Caribbean itineraries, call 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to www.cunard.com.

Cunard's QM2 Offers More NYC Departures

Posted 02/17/07

Cunard Line announced an extended series of 12 ten-day voyages by the Queen Mary 2 to the Caribbean from New York in the 2007-08 season. The company also announced two 13-day sailings to Panama and the Caribbean and a 14-day Caribbean voyage featuring Christmas Day at sea and New Year's Eve in the port of St. Thomas. The ship's speed allows it to sail farther south than other ships out of New York, affording more Southern Caribbean port stops, such as Barbados, on 10-day voyages. In 2007 and 2008, Cunard will offer more than a dozen Caribbean voyages roundtrip from New York. Ranging in length from 10 to 14 days, these journeys include 12 departures of the 10-day "Connoisseur's Caribbean" to Tortola, St. Kitts, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Thomas; the 14-day "Caribbean Celebration" departing Dec. 20 and visiting Tortola, St. Maarten, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Thomas; and two 13-day "Panama and the Caribbean" voyages departing Feb. 2 and March 24, 2008, with stops in Costa Rica, Panama, Curacao, Bonaire, St. Lucia and St. Thomas. Fares for the QM2's 2007-08 Caribbean voyages start from $1,499 per person, double occupancy. For more information, call 800-913-7245.

Uniworld Offers New Seine River Cruises

Posted 02/20/07

Uniworld Grand River Cruises is offering new cruises from Paris through the countryside of Northern France to the beaches of Normandy and then back to Paris. The refurbished River Baroness will sail along the Seine River for eight days onboard. The vacation begins with a guided city tour of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Elysees, and the Arc de Triomphe. The day concludes with the Captain's Welcome Dinner onboard. The ship departs Paris for the towns of Auvers sur Oise and Conflans Ste Honorine. The former -- a favorite locale for many of the Impressionist painters -- is where Vincent Van Gogh lived, died and immortalized the town in "Auberge Ravoux," the "Church of Auvers sur Oise" and the "Wheat fields."

The cruise also visits Rouen, Le Havre, Honfleur and Vernon for an excursion to Monet's Giverny. The last evening onboard includes the Captain's Farewell Dinner as the ship sails back to Paris. An optional three-night pre-cruise package includes accommodations at Le Meridian Montparnasse (or similar) with breakfast daily, a guided "Arts and the Artists" tours of Montmartre and the Louvre, and transfers from the airport to your hotel and from your hotel to the ship. The cruise is priced from $1,798 per person, cruise only. Sailings begin March 25, and those who book and deposit a trip by March 31 will save $200 per couple or $100 per person, excluding the April 29 and May 13 sail dates.

Princess Offers Alaska Cruise-Tour Sale

Posted 02/21/07

Princess launched a new "Alaska Wilderness Sale" offering savings on cruise-tours. Special rates on select cruise-tours feature discounts of up to $500 per couple off of Princess' early-booking discounts. Sale prices for an 11-day cruise-tour begin at $1,399 per person for a Gulf of Alaska cruise with a land journey into Alaska. The sale pricing is available through March 31, and covers select cruise-tour departures throughout the May to September season.

"We want to encourage passengers to take advantage of Princess' expanded Alaska capacity during this busy booking period," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "This is a great time to finalize vacation plans as we're offering a wide range of sailing dates and stateroom categories on sale."

Princess will feature its largest ever Alaska fleet in 2007, with eight ships sailing through the scenic waters of "The Great Land." The vessels range in size from 670 passengers to 2,670 passengers, including five ships dedicated to the Gulf of Alaska route. For the first time, Princess will feature mid-week Gulf departures aboard the smaller Pacific Princess. The Gulf of Alaska cruises can be combined with one of 22 different land tour options for a cruise-tour that includes Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park, plus the company's "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to/from Whittier. Princess' 2007 Gulf of Alaska season features a record 78 calls in Glacier Bay, and Princess says its ships will carry more passengers to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line. To take advantage of these great offers call 800-913-7245.

Cruise Planners Now Selling P&O Cruises!

Posted 02/22/07

We are adding P&O Cruises as one of our preferred brands.  Cruise Planners and our clients will now have access to the modern european brand of P&O cruises.   Britain's largest and most modern fleet, is offering unique Mediterranean and Baltic Cruises this summer and fall. Cruises range in length from seven to25 nights and start at $1,045 per person for a seven-day cruise. P&O Cruises features five ships, including the 1,950-passenger Arcadia, the 1,168-passenger Artemis, the 1,870-passenger Aurora, the 2,016-passenger Oceana, and the 1,822-passenger Oriana. Accommodations range from luxury suites with butler service to interior cabins.  Cruise Planners is excited to bring another quality brand to our discerning clients.   And, of course, we will offer the same discounts and incentives on select P&O sailings that we offer on other brands.  Call us today for more info and pricing on P&O, as the data is not yet available in our online system. 800-913-7245

Disney Cruise Line Announces TWO new ships!

Posted 02/22/07

The Walt Disney Company plans to expand its successful cruise business by adding two new ocean liners, President and CEO Bob Iger announced today. Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line® to meet the sustained demand for Disney's family cruise vacations.

The new 122,000-ton cruise liners will be two decks taller than the existing 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic® and the Disney Wonder®. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms. Specific design plans and itineraries for the yet-unnamed ships are still in development and will be unveiled at a later date.

Holland America Debuts Full-Transit Cruises

Posted 02/23/07

Holland America Line is offering 30 canal sailings in 2008, including new full-transit cruises though the Panama Canal, exotic 13- to 26-day "Inca Discovery" sailings, and new spring and fall departures from Tampa. The premium cruise line features 13 transcanal voyages on seven ships in 2008, plus 17 "Sunfarer" sailings that combine Panama Canal and Caribbean cruising. These 30 cruises ranging from 10 to 36 days and explore four regions: the Mexican Riviera, Central America, South America and Caribbean. The Statendam features new "Inca Discovery" cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale and featuring a three-day extended stay in Callao (Lima), Peru, to visit Machu Picchu. Guests can also opt for a 13-day Ft. Lauderdale-to-Callao or Callao-to-Fort Lauderdale itinerary with the option of pre- or post-cruise tours to Machu Picchu. The 26-day itinerary offers two full transits of the Panama Canal, the Machu Picchu excursion, and calls at Half Moon Cay; Grand Turk; Santa Marta and San Andres, Colombia; San Blas Islands and Amador, Panama; Manta and Guayaquil, Ecuador; Salaverry and Callao, Peru; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Grand Cayman; and Key West.

Seven ships will sail full-transit cruises though the Panama Canal in 2008; they are the Maasdam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam, Westerdam, Prinsendam and Amsterdam. Departures are from Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, San Diego, Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver and Callao. The Maasdam offers two full-transit sailings in the winter, departing Jan. 25 and Feb. 9, while the Statendam features a new fall sailing Oct. 25. The Maasdam sails a 15-day itinerary from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego departing Jan. 25 and a return 15-day voyage on Feb. 9. The Veendam will depart Tampa on a new, 19-day canal cruise on April 13. The Statendam offers a 16-day cruise departing Oct. 25 from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale. The Veendam offers a 32- to 36-day "Panama Canal & Amazon Explorer" in the fall, with the choice of departing from Vancouver Sept. 26 or from San Diego Sept. 30. The Volendam will sail a total of 10 10-day "Sunfarer" cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale in early 2008, offering departures Jan. 2 to April 1. In the fall, with the introduction of a Vista-class ship, the Zuiderdam picks up the itinerary with departures Nov 9, Nov. 19, Nov. 29, Dec. 9, Dec. 19 and Dec. 29. The Amsterdam also sails a 14-day Caribbean and Sunfarer cruise on Dec. 23. A Panama Canal historian travels on every sailing, providing insight and answering questions about one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. Panama Canal cruise fares start at $1,199 per person, double occupancy.

Crystal Cruise Ship to Host NPR Program

Posted 02/26/07

Crystal Cruises in March will welcome National Public Radio's "Selected Shorts: A Celebration of the Short Story" program of performance narratives aboard Crystal Serenity. Series director and radio personality Isaiah Sheffer will host actors including stage and screen personalities Keir Dullea ("2001: A Space Odyssey" and "The Good Shepherd"), Mia Dillion ("Gods and Generals"), and Stephen Lang ("Gods and Generals"), as they perform works of classic and contemporary fiction and participate in interview sessions.

The entertainment program debuts on Crystal Serenity's March 20 cruise from Dubai to Istanbul, the fifth segment of Crystal Cruises' 2007 World Cruise. Recorded live at Manhattan's Symphony Space and heard each week in 155 cities nationwide, Selected Shorts features stars of theater, film and television bringing short stories to life. Guests aboard Crystal Serenity will be treated to theatrical readings of stories about wine and cuisine, love with a twist, and the short stories radio listeners found the funniest, including selections from Anton Chekhov, Kate Chopin, John Cheever, M.F.K. Fisher, Garrison Keillor, Thomas Meehan and more. The March 20 cruise begins in Dubai with an overnight stay aboard ship.

From there, the itinerary includes Salalah, Oman; Luxor and Karnak/Safaga, Egypt; Aqaba, Jordan; Ashdod, Israel; Alexandria/Cairo, Egypt; Athens; and Istanbul, Turkey. Fares begin at $9,680 per person, double occupancy. The March 20 voyage also features other speakers, including Sports Illustrated writer and NPR sports commentator Frank Deford; former FBI profiler Clint van Zandt; dramatist and book reviewer Barbara Rinella; sleep researcher and author of the best-seller "Power Sleep" Jim Maas; and veteran journalist Joe Kita.  To book, call Cruise Planners Today! 800-913-7245

Royal Caribbean to Deploy Megaship in Europe

Posted 02/27/07

Royal Caribbean International will deploy the 160,000-ton Independence of the Seas in Southampton, England, when it debuts in May 2008. Sharing the title of the largest cruise ship with sister ships Freedom of the Seas and the soon-to-be-launched Liberty of the Seas, Independence of the Seas will be the largest ship ever to be home-ported in Europe.
"This significant step is part of the company's strategy of international business development and expansion into emerging and high-growth cruise markets," said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

"We have already seen tremendous growth of the cruise industry in Europe. This year, 21 percent of the capacity of our three brands combined -- Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Pullmantur -- will be in this market."
Currently under construction in Aker Yards in Turku, Finland, Independence of the Seas will be delivered to Royal Caribbean in May 2008 and will feature the line's signature innovations including the FlowRider surf simulator, the H2O Zone water park, an ice-skating rink, a rock-climbing wall and a boxing ring. The 3,634-guest cruise ship will sail the 2008 summer season from Southampton, U.K. Following a series of preview sailings in Oslo, Norway; Hamburg, Germany; and Southampton, U.K., Independence will embark on its maiden voyage in mid-May 2008, alternating 14-night "Mediterranean Treasures" and "Italian Mediterranean" itineraries.

Ports of call for the "Mediterranean Treasures" itinerary include Gibraltar, U.K.; Barcelona, Spain; Nice, France; Florence/Pisa, Italy; Sardinia, Italy; Lisbon, Portugal; and Malaga and Vigo, Spain. The "Italian Mediterranean" cruises visit Gibraltar; Cannes/Monte Carlo, France; Florence/Pisa, Rome and Sardinia in Italy; Seville and Vigo, Spain; and Lisbon, Portugal. The ship also offers two four-night cruises from Southampton to Cork, Ireland, and St. Peter Port in the Channel Islands. Three 11-night Canary Islands itineraries, also roundtrip from Southampton, will round out the fall season, calling in Madeira, Portugal; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Las Palmas, Gran Canaria; Lanzarote, Canary Islands; and Vigo. The Independence then heads to the U.S. for winter operating alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. Bookings for the European itineraries will open on March 14. Call to book your cabin today! 800-913-7245>

Crystal Schedules 41 New Excursions in the Mediterranean

Posted 02/28/07

Crystal Cruises is offering 41 new shore excursions as part of its 350 Crystal Adventures in the Mediterranean this summer. The adventures, available with the 22 cruises from April through November, are now available for online viewing and booking at www.crystalcruises.com. Highlights include biking in Funchal, an exclusive dinner at a private Venetian palace, scaling the wall of Dubrovnik, an evening of ballet at the Odessa Ukrainian Drama Theatre, or a dinner and wine tasting at a Tuscan wine cellar. Passengers may choose from as many as 70 different Crystal Adventures on a single voyage. From April through November, the Crystal Serenity will operate voyages from seven to 12 days. Cruises depart from Athens, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey; London, England; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Rome, Italy; Toulon, France; and Venice, Italy. Pre- and/or post-cruise hotel stays available in all cities except Toulon. Per person, double occupancy fares begin at $2,780. For more information, call 800-913-7245 or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

Regent Seven Seas Unveils New Circles of Interest

Posted 03/07/07

Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveiled five new Art, Design and Cultures Circles of Interest for Mediterranean and Baltic cruises this summer aboard the 700-guest, all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager and 490-guest all-suite Seven Seas Navigator. Circles of Interest offer guests the opportunity to discover a destination through a lens of particular interest, with the insights of an expert guest host and the camaraderie of a smaller community of guests who share similar interests. As part of the recently launched Regent Art Experience and Endowment Program, a partnership with the Bass Museum of Art on Miami Beach, brings executive director and chief curator Diane Camber to Regent, leading guests on four Circles of Interest aboard three Mediterranean sailings.

Each of the four Circle of Interest programs includes a private welcome cocktail party, dinner, onboard lecture, and an exclusive shore experience with unique and private access. Participation is limited to 30 guests. In addition to planned onboard and on shore activities, Camber will help facilitate smaller community events where possible. The July 19 and Aug. 11 Mediterranean sailings aboard Seven Seas Navigator both feature two Circle of Interest programs. During the first Circle, "Power, Passion & Glory-Diane Camber's Florence," Circle of Interest guests will join Camber for visits to the Museum of San Marco; the Medici Chapels and six tombs of the Medici Grand Dukes, adorned with some of Michelangelo's most famous sculptures; the Piazza del Duomo, Baptistery and Cathedral; Brancacci Chapel; and a drive through the Piazzale Michelangelo. Guests will also explore the role of the Medici in religion and have a lunch of local flavor. Cost is $315 per guest.

The second Circle of Interest on those sailings is "Les Artistes de la Côte d'Azur," where Camber will share her knowledge of the works at the Musée Matisse and Musée Nationale Marc Chagall. Guests will also witness the beauty of the French Riviera through a private drive. Cost is $175 per guest. The Aug. 11 voyage includes a private discussion on "Modernity: Gaudí, Miró and Picasso." The Aug. 18 sailing of Seven Seas Navigator also features two Circles of Interest. The first, "Passione per l'arte-A Personal View with Diane Camber," includes a shore experience where guests will travel by private water taxi to the Palazzo Grassi in Venice, which holds the largest private contemporary art collection and is owned by Francois Pinault, one of the world's richest men. Later, a short ride brings guests to another bastion of contemporary art: the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in her personal villa. Cost is $255 per guest. The second Circle of Interest on that sailing is "Stabbiano di Castelammare-Dig for History, Art and Local Flavor." A private coach will give guests the opportunity to see an excavation of the Roman villas of ancient Stabiae. En route back to Sorrento, guests will stop at a typical farm house to learn how mozzarella is made and have a light lunch of local specialties. Cost is $175 per guest. On the Aug. 18 voyage, the Circle of Interest programs will include an exclusive talk on the culture, art and architecture of the Adriatic. Camber will also discuss Caravaggio. Per person prices for European voyages featuring Art, Design and Cultures Circles of Interest start at $4,796. For more information, call 800-913-7245

Silversea Cruises Unveils Plans for New Ship

Posted 03/14/07

Silversea Cruises signed a memorandum of understanding for one 36,000-ton, 540-guest vessel from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri with delivery scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2009. The line also signed an option for a sister ship with Fincantieri. The agreement with Fincantieri is conditional to final contract and financing. However, an irrevocable banking commitment, fully underwritten, has already been obtained and is only subject to the final loan agreement, the company said.

"This is a very exciting time for our company as we are now poised to further develop our unique style of luxury travel with a new generation of ship design," said Silversea Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre. Added Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's recently appointed president: "This newbuild order shows great confidence in the luxury segment's potential for greater demand. Silversea will be well positioned to fully meet this future demand in North America and our international markets."

The newbuild order is the first one for Silversea since 1998 when contracts for Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper were signed. Those vessels entered into service in 2000 and 2001, respectively. With the newbuild, Silversea's overall fleet capacity will grow from 1,356 berths to 1,896 berths, representing a 40 percent increase. Silversea said the purchase price and design details about the new vessel will be forthcoming over the next few weeks.

Oceania Plans Two 1,260-Passenger Newbuilds

Posted 03/15/07

Oceania Cruises signed a memorandum of agreement to build two 1,260-passenger, 65,000-ton ships for delivery in fall 2010 and summer 2011. The ships -- each valued at $500 million -- would be built at Fincantieri's shipyard in Genoa, Italy. The agreement includes an option for a third vessel for delivery in the second quarter of 2012. The deadline for firming up the orders is mid-May while the option would have to be exercised by September 2009. The agreement was announced Wednesday at the Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention in Miami Beach.

"This is one of the Top 10 days of my life and one of the top two or three days in the history of Oceania Cruises," said Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Oceania. "We started this company in 2003 with $14 million in capital."
Two weeks ago, equity firm Apollo Management invested $850 million to become the majority shareholder of Oceania, giving the line the capital it needs to expand. Oceania now operates three 684-passenger ships that were originally built by Del Rio's former company, the now-defunct Renaissance Cruises. The new ships will be more than twice the size of the current 30,277-ton ships, but Del Rio said the newbuilds will maintain the "country club atmosphere similar to a high-end European boutique hotel."

Staterooms will be about 50 percent larger, he said, with 96 percent having ocean views and 93 having private balconies. The 438 Concierge-level staterooms will measure about 300 square feet while the 125 Penthouse Suites will be about 500 square feet. Each ship will have two 2,500-square-foot, two-level Owner's Suites with private elevators and outdoor hot tubs. Other accommodations will include six Vista Suites at the front of the ship and 14 new 1,000-square-foot Oceania Suites on the top deck midships. There will be 26 inside cabins. The ships will boast food and wine enrichment centers for "culinary theater," Del Rio said, as well as movies at night.

Despite the size and cost of the ships, Del Rio maintains Oceania will be able to maintain its relatively affordable pricing for what will remain an upper-premium product. The line regularly offers two-for-one pricing and free economy air. "We want to maintain the price point of about $350 per day," Del Rio said. "It's a sweet spot in the industry.…We don't want to be in the luxury category." The new ships will also have six open-seating restaurants -- including a new Pan-Asian eatery and a French bistro -- that will carry no surcharges. Seating in all restaurants will equal 150 percent of the ship's capacity in a single sitting.

Princess Debuts Mother Daughter Packages

Posted 04/05/07

Princess Cruises is introducing a new "Mother/Daughter Memories" on the Emerald Princess starting May 5. The package is designed to help a mother and daughter celebrate their time together, and offers activities such as shopping, spa treatments and wine tastings. Princess' two newest cruise ships, Emerald Princess and Royal Princess, will be christened together over Mother's Day weekend. The mother-daughter package can be enjoyed any time of year, including on Mother's Day, and features two sterling silver charm bracelets with a sterling sand dollar charm with an emerald accent, Lotus Spa manicure and pedicure, half-day passes to The Sanctuary adults-only retreat, reserved seats for a wine tasting event and 8-by-10 photos of their choice.
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The package cost is $495 and can be reserved onboard by all mother and daughters 21 years of age and older. Princess will reunite a pair of television's favorite mothers and daughters to christen the Emerald Princess and Royal Princess over Mother's Day weekend in Santorini, Greece. Television icons Florence Henderson, best known as Carol Brady on "The Brady Bunch," and Marion Ross, aka Marion Cunningham of "Happy Days" fame will christen the larger Emerald Princess, while their TV daughters, Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady) and Erin Moran (Joanie Cunningham) will christen the more intimate Royal Princess.   For More information Call 800-913-7245

LOVE’S EXPRESSION KNOWS NO BOUNDS WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S EXPLORER WEDDINGS

Posted 04/09/07

Emerald Princess Sails on Inaugural Voyage

Posted 04/12/07

Princess Cruises' new Emerald Princess welcomed its first passengers on board Wednesday as it set sail on its maiden voyage from Rome's seaport, the town of Civitavecchia. The 113,000-ton ship's first cruise is a 12-day Greek Isles voyage to Venice that will take passengers to some of the most scenic spots in the Mediterranean and Aegean, including Naples/Capri, Santorini, Rhodes, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Mykonos, Athens (Piraeus), Katakolon (for Olympia), Corfu and Dubrovnik. Thereafter the ship will offer a series of Greek Isles and Grand Mediterranean cruises before crossing the Atlantic to Fort Lauderdale in October. The new vessel includes many of the elements and amenities that debuted last year on sister ship Crown Princess, including a piazza-style atrium, a multitude of casual dining venues and an adults-only retreat called The Sanctuary. A number of new culinary enhancements also debuted on the ship, including a Chef's Table dinner for epicurean aficionados, all new dining room menus, enhanced buffet service, and a number of special touches such as an afternoon cookies and milk break featuring fresh-from-the-oven soft-baked cookies, and in-cabin delivery of pizza. For more information, call 800-913-7245 or visit www.planmycruise.net.

Celebrity Cruises® Presents New, Deluxe Cruise Line: AZAMARA

Posted 05/07/07

The launch of a new ship is a momentous occasion for any cruise line, but Celebrity Cruises hasmade the introduction of their latest liner especially significant. Today, Celebrity not only markedthe launch of a 710-guest ship which sets sail tomorrow, but also introduced an entirely new,deluxe cruise brand: “Azamara Cruises.”

Despite the ships’ smaller size, each offers two specialty restaurants: On Azamara Journey, the Mediterranean-influenced “Aqualina” and the stylish steak and seafood restaurant, “Prime C.”  Guests staying in suites will receive two nights of complimentary dining in one of the two specialty  restaurants, while guests in staterooms will receive one. The ships will not require formal attire for dining, and will feature open seating in the main dining room.

An onboard “excursion expert” will not only help guests select shore excursions based on theirpersonal interests, but also will serve as a destination guide, offering information about the cultureand history of each port of call. The Azamara retail experience onboard also will be enticing to most experienced travelers, with its focus on fine art, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and upscale resort wear. Just prior to setting sail on its maiden voyage May 5, Azamara Journey completed a four-week,approximately $19-million makeover, highlighted by the conversion of 48 staterooms into 32 suites, a complete refurbishment of the dining areas to create the two new specialty restaurants, an expansion of the spa area to include an aesthetics suite, a new Sunset Bar on the aft deck, anew art collection, Cova Café, entirely new carpets and flooring throughout, new exterior decking,new paint schemes, new walls, and entirely new “soft goods,” ranging from plush Europeanbedding to cushions, drapes and table linens.

The name “Azamara” is a coined term, rooted in Romance language references to blue (“aza”), thesea (“mar”), and a lesser-known word, “acamar,” which, in Classical times, was the southernmostbright star that could be seen from the latitude of Greece. Hanrahan said the company views thenew brand as “a bright star on the deep blue sea.” Azamara Cruises unlocks the hidden corners of the world for those who desire to immerse themselves in the rich details of every voyage. The deluxe ships – Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest – offer an intimate experience, while allowing access to exotic destinations experienced travelers long to reach. For the 710 guests on each Azamara Cruises ship, every moment at seaembodies the pinnacle of luxury, and each footstep on shore accentuates the difference between visiting a place and getting a true sense of place. Azamara Cruises presents the best of Bermuda and Panama Canal/South America in 2007, elite Asia and the most captivating Caribbean, South America and Europe in 2008, and around-the-world voyages in 2010. For more information, visit www.planmycruise.com or call 800-913-7245.

Pearl Seas Cruises Unveils Plans for Larger Ship

Posted 05/10/07

Pearl Seas Cruises announced that its first ship will be larger than originally planned with a passenger capacity of 210 instead of 165. The ship is currently under construction and is proceeding on schedule. The first ship is scheduled to begin cruise service in August 2008. The 109 staterooms and suites will range in size from 240 to 460 square feet; all will have private balconies. Pearl Seas is a sister company to American Cruise Lines, but will operate internationally. The first ship will begin sailing in the Canadian Maritimes, St. Lawrence Seaway, Great Lakes, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and New England, and followed later in the year with itineraries in the Caribbean and Mexico Riviera. The ship will feature a spa, elevators to all six decks, Internet access, and oversized suites all with private verandas and large picture windows that open. The atmosphere is designed to be like that of a fine private club, offering "Luxury Adventure." For more information, call 800-913-7245.

Cunard's Queen Victoria Continues a Modern Era of Style and Sophistication

Posted 06/07/07

Valencia, CA (June 7, 2007) When the designers of Cunard's newest ocean liner, Queen Victoria, began to consider the ship's interior public spaces, they drew upon the well-recorded and rich history of previous Cunard ocean liners to set the tone.  From the ship's double and triple-height spaces - a design feature of grand liners of the past - to rooms imbued with an elegant yet understated British charm, the overall effect is both contemporary and historically classic.

"This will be a unique ship offering our guests a glorious taste of grand ocean liner travel from days gone by, along with every modern convenience.  Even the most experienced travelers will be impressed.  The ship demonstrates such extraordinary attention to detail, not only in craftsmanship but in the thought that has gone into exceeding our guests' expectations," said Carol Marlow, Cunard's president & managing director.

According to Teresa Anderson, vice president of Interior Design, "Much of Queen Victoria's interior design was inspired and carefully planned to take maximum advantage of the ship's grand spaces.  Classical motifs, along with art deco and nouveau touches blend in a subtle continuity and add an element of surprise."

Dramatic architecture and design is evident throughout the ship, with the Grand Lobby serving as a majestic and powerful focal point.  The centre of onboard activity, it forms the core from which the ship's other public rooms flow.

Beautifully proportioned, the Grand Lobby's architecture is in keeping with the ambiance of many of Cunard ocean liners of the past while its interior design offers the contemporary elegance of a modern day luxury hotel.  The Grand Lobby's dramatic triple height ceiling, sweeping staircase and sculpted balconies create an immediate and unmistakable sense of grandeur and arrival.  A signature piece of artwork anchors the staircase landing, affording a breathtaking focal point viewable from nearly every part of the Grand Lobby.  An earth tone colour palette of creamy beige, chestnut brown and gold is carried throughout, from light mahogany walls and circular hand-woven area rugs to intricately designed marble floors.  Here, guests will conduct shipboard business at the Purser's Desk, catch up on email at the computer centre and move easily to Decks 2 and 3.

Moving forward from the Grand Lobby, guests pass through the Cunardia museum-display, emerging into the dramatic double-height Queens Room, a loggia-style venue, reminiscent of a grand ballroom in a large country house.  With ceilings featuring a pair of gleaming crystal chandeliers and the delicate use of gold leaf, the room's styling is light and elegant.  Specially commissioned murals - by British artists - reinforce the line's British heritage, as do the activities which will take place here, including afternoon tea, served by white gloved waiters, formal balls with a live orchestra, the traditional Captain's cocktail parties, Cunard World Club events and even fencing classes.

Added Teresa Anderson, "This room's cantilevered balconies overlooking the ballroom are reminiscent of QE2, detailed with classically-ornate, curved railings.  The dance floor is hand-crafted of inlaid wood, inviting guests to enjoy the line's grand tradition of elegant ballroom dancing.  The room's ceilings, light maple paneled walls and warmly backlit stained glass create a feeling of space and elegance."

In contrast is Hemispheres, an ideal venue for daytime pursuits and a nightclub which will be open into the early hours.  The most contemporary area on the ship, it is a geometrically dynamic circular shape that is referenced in design elements throughout.  The room's glamorous design is evident from the moment of arrival.  A backlit perforated metal sphere encapsulated in decorative glazed screens serves as both a dramatic focal point and privacy-enhancing divider wall as guests enter the room.  Light mahogany wood paneling, leather-clad columns, metallic wall surfaces, executed in shades of dark blue, burgundy and gold, give the room a modern sensibility.  The circular dance floor is handcrafted wood and is highlighted by a gleaming chandelier suspended above.  Panoramic views through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the dramatic location of this unique venue.

The 90,000-ton Queen Victoria will offer the very best of Cunard's heritage and traditions, along with all modern day luxuries including some exciting innovations.  These will include the first traditional West End-style private viewing boxes at sea in the Royal Court Theatre, the first Cunardia museum exhibit at sea, housing Cunard artifacts and memorabilia along with the first two-storey, library at sea featuring an elegant spiral staircase.  The ship will also feature the line's celebrated Queens Grill and Princess Grill accommodations and dining, further enhanced on Queen Victoria with exclusive deck terraces and an al fresco dining option.

From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at the sophistication that differentiates a Cunard liner.  This will be most evident in the ship's adherence to liner traditions of the past, with elegant public rooms, many on a grand scale, featuring rich wood paneling, intricate mosaics and gleaming chandeliers.  There will also be a grand, colonial-style conservatory complete with a retractable glass roof.

As well as being the second largest Cunarder ever built, Queen Victoria's arrival is particularly noteworthy as it will mark the first time that three Cunard Queens have been in service together in the company's 167-year history (she joins the world's grandest liner, Queen Mary 2 and the world's most famous and best-loved liner, QE2).