Tuesday, November 9, 2010

New Small Ship Line InnerSea Discoveries Offers the ‘Un-Cruise’ in Alaska for 2011

Small-ship line InnerSea Discoveries, sister company to American Safari Cruises, offers exhilarating cruises in Alaska in 2011 that go beyond the norm. Each of the four itineraries ranging from 7- to 14-nights is designed to take advantage of the wonder and wildlife that are hallmarks of the Alaskan wilderness. Rather than just being an observer, guests are invited to participate in daily included activities such as kayaking, hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, exploration by small water craft and more.

“We designed the itineraries to take advantage of Alaska’s geographical attributes, authentic towns and to provide guests a multitude of meaningful ways to discover and get involved,” commented Capt. Dan Blanchard, InnerSea Discoveries principal and CEO. “The ships serve as comfortable staging platforms that are a welcome sight after a day of unique adventures. Our goal is to provide guests the opportunity to reengage their senses and revel in new outdoor experiences. ”

The numerous activities offered cater to all levels of abilities. Guests choose the pace that appeals to them such as a tranquil paddle along the shoreline, a robust guided six hour paddle and hike at Deep Cove or quietly exploring pristine waters such as Yes Bay by stand-up paddle board. There are options galore including relaxing onboard to watch for sea and wildlife with a favorite beverage in hand from the on-deck hot tub. All itineraries feature a port call at the authentic town/communities of Wrangell or Klawock to mingle with the locals who look forward to sharing stories about their rugged history and native heritage.

Choose from four adventure itineraries: the 7-night Southeast Alaska’s Inner Reaches Western Coves, Ketchikan to Juneau; 7-night Alaska’s Inner Reaches Eastern Coves, Juneau to Ketchikan; 14-night Alaska’s Inside Passage Ultimate Adventure (combined Western and Eastern Coves itineraries), Juneau round trip; and the 14-night Wilderness Passages of Discovery, Seattle to Juneau or reverse. The itineraries are purposely flexible as nature sets the schedule and the floorshow. If a pod of Humpback whales are frolicking in Frederick Sound, the ship makes time to stop and linger.

Traveling with a maximum of 49 like-minded guests aboard the expedition ships Wilderness Adventurer and Wilderness Discoverer, guests can expect exemplary service, delicious cuisine with an emphasis on local foods served family style or buffet depending on the day’s activities, a 1:3 crew to guest ratio and access to top notch gear (such as Diamond Trail compact hiking poles, Necky tandem kayaks and Surftech softop stand-up paddle boards). The on and off ship experiences are accentuated by experienced naturalists who present topical information and serve as guides on excursions.

Both vessels are undergoing full refurbishment with many enhancements being added such as underwater cameras mounted on the bows to view the world below the surface including dolphins playing in the bow wake, newly-developed kayak launching floats, flat screen TVs/DVDs/iPod docks in all cabins to view videos taken by guests each day, 24-hour streaming video from the underwater camera or DVDs, memory-foam mattresses in all cabins and main salons designed with the blended feel of a 1940’s National Park Service Lodge and a neighborhood pub.

For guests seeking additional adventure, a sampling of noteworthy optional excursions include roughing it with a combination of kayaking, hiking and overnight camping with an expert guide; safely searching for bears at the Anan Creek Bear Observatory by river boat; and a half-day of sport fishing at Little Port Walter.

Family Discoveries Programs Offer Favorable Pricing

InnerSeas Discoveries offers three departure dates that are geared toward entertaining and educating kids of all age groups on June 25, July 23, and August 13, 2011. Activities include kayaking, hiking, meeting local families such as oyster farmers or commercial fishermen and presentations designed to appeal to kids as well as adults. Kids 12 years and under receive a 30 percent savings in all cabin categories. A savings of 25 percent is available on all other departure dates. Visit http://www.innerseadiscoveries.com/styles_of_travel/alaska-family-vacations for more information.

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Sunday, November 7, 2010

Norwegian Sun to Homeport in Port Canaveral

Norwegian Cruise Line’s 1,936-guest Norwegian Sun will call Port Canaveral (Orlando) home when the ship arrives on Saturday, October 16, 2010. The ship, purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising, will sail alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing every Saturday from October 16, 2010 through April 7, 2012.

Guests can extend their vacation in Florida with easy access to pre- and post-cruise shore excursions. Those looking for an outdoor adventure can enjoy a scenic airboat tour within the heart of the Central Florida Everglades, kayak through the eco-trails of the Indian River , or spot native wildlife from a pontoon boat. Fast-paced excitement can found at any number of amusement parks from Universal Studios to Walt Disney World Resort, or by spending a day learning how to surf at Cocoa Beach .

“We are always looking for new home ports where it’s easy for our guests to be on vacation in a matter of moments. By adding Port Canaveral as one of our home ports, we’re able to offer our Freestyle Cruising experience to the millions of residents who live in Central Florida and surrounding areas,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “In addition, Port Canaveral’s close proximity to the myriad of theme parks and beaches makes it perfect for a pre- or post-cruise experience.”

"Norwegian Sun represents the next step in a successful, well-established relationship between Norwegian Cruise Line and Port Canaveral that already provides passengers from the Northeast a day to explore the many attractions of Central Florida,” said Stan Payne, Port Canaveral CEO. “We are excited about having Norwegian Sun as a homeported vessel so we can proudly show Norwegian passengers the ease of sailing from Port Canaveral."

Norwegian Sun features 14 Freestyle Dining options including Norwegian’s signature French restaurant, Le Bistro; 10 bars and lounges; a swimming pool with a kid’s pool and five hot tubs; a complimentary kid’s club and teen lounge; a casino; a full-service spa and salon; and a fitness center offering state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

Norwegian Sun’s extensive choice of accommodations is suitable for families on vacation to couples on a romantic getaway. Families of all sizes can choose from a large number of staterooms (including suites and mini-suites) that can interconnect to create multiple bedroom configurations, with a separate bathroom and shower. Couples may unwind in the luxurious Romance Suite with floor-to-ceiling doors that open to a private balcony, bedroom with queen-sized bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

Norwegian Sun’s seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise will stop in Nassau , Bahamas ; St. Thomas , U.S. Virgin Islands ; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten. The ship’s seven-day Western Caribbean cruise will call in Cozumel , Mexico ; Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala ; Belize City , Belize and Key West , Florida . The two itineraries can be easily combined to create a port-rich 14-day Caribbean tour for guests looking for a longer cruise escape. Beginning May 2011, Norwegian Sun will spend her summer in Europe sailing from Copenhagen , Denmark , for the first time in the company’s history, embarking on 15 nine-day Baltic Capitals cruises. Ports of call include: Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany ; Tallinn , Estonia ; an overnight in St. Petersburg , Russia ; Helsinki , Finland and Stockholm (Nynashamn), Sweden . Norwegian Cruise Line’s 1,936-guest Norwegian Sun will call Port Canaveral (Orlando) home when the ship arrives on Saturday, October 16, 2010. The ship, purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising, will sail alternating seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing every Saturday from October 16, 2010 through April 7, 2012.

Guests can extend their vacation in Florida with easy access to pre- and post-cruise shore excursions. Those looking for an outdoor adventure can enjoy a scenic airboat tour within the heart of the Central Florida Everglades, kayak through the eco-trails of the Indian River , or spot native wildlife from a pontoon boat. Fast-paced excitement can found at any number of amusement parks from Universal Studios to Walt Disney World Resort, or by spending a day learning how to surf at Cocoa Beach .

“We are always looking for new home ports where it’s easy for our guests to be on vacation in a matter of moments. By adding Port Canaveral as one of our home ports, we’re able to offer our Freestyle Cruising experience to the millions of residents who live in Central Florida and surrounding areas,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “In addition, Port Canaveral’s close proximity to the myriad of theme parks and beaches makes it perfect for a pre- or post-cruise experience.”

"Norwegian Sun represents the next step in a successful, well-established relationship between Norwegian Cruise Line and Port Canaveral that already provides passengers from the Northeast a day to explore the many attractions of Central Florida,” said Stan Payne, Port Canaveral CEO. “We are excited about having Norwegian Sun as a homeported vessel so we can proudly show Norwegian passengers the ease of sailing from Port Canaveral."

Norwegian Sun features 14 Freestyle Dining options including Norwegian’s signature French restaurant, Le Bistro; 10 bars and lounges; a swimming pool with a kid’s pool and five hot tubs; a complimentary kid’s club and teen lounge; a casino; a full-service spa and salon; and a fitness center offering state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

Norwegian Sun’s extensive choice of accommodations is suitable for families on vacation to couples on a romantic getaway. Families of all sizes can choose from a large number of staterooms (including suites and mini-suites) that can interconnect to create multiple bedroom configurations, with a separate bathroom and shower. Couples may unwind in the luxurious Romance Suite with floor-to-ceiling doors that open to a private balcony, bedroom with queen-sized bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

Norwegian Sun’s seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise will stop in Nassau , Bahamas ; St. Thomas , U.S. Virgin Islands ; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten. The ship’s seven-day Western Caribbean cruise will call in Cozumel , Mexico ; Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala ; Belize City , Belize and Key West , Florida . The two itineraries can be easily combined to create a port-rich 14-day Caribbean tour for guests looking for a longer cruise escape. Beginning May 2011, Norwegian Sun will spend her summer in Europe sailing from Copenhagen , Denmark , for the first time in the company’s history, embarking on 15 nine-day Baltic Capitals cruises. Ports of call include: Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany ; Tallinn , Estonia ; an overnight in St. Petersburg , Russia ; Helsinki , Finland and Stockholm (Nynashamn), Sweden .

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Regent Seven Seas Awarded Conde Naste Honors


Regent Seven Seas Cruises has been voted the world’s best cruise line in the “large-ship” category in the 2010 Condé Nast Traveler readers’ poll. The ultra-luxury line’s overall score of 92.3, tied with Crystal Cruises.

Regent Seven Seas is the world’s only cruise line to include airfare, all-suite accommodations, acclaimed cuisine, open bars, sightseeing excursions, gratuities and taxes for the ultimate, ultra-luxury vacation.

“We are proud to be recognized as the best of the best by discerning Condé Nast Traveler readers,” stated Mark Conroy, president, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “As the world’s most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise line, we take great pride in exceeding our guests’ expectations every day. I’m biased, for sure, but our shipboard and shore-side staff is without question the finest at sea.”

Considered among the travel industry’s most coveted honors, the Readers’ Choice Awards from Condé Nast Traveler celebrate the best-of-the-best cruise lines, hotels, airlines, cities, rental car companies and islands. Travelers evaluated cruise lines on their Itineraries and Shore Excursions, Accommodations, Food/Dining, Crew/Service, Design/Layout and Activities/Facilities to determine the overall score.

Travel + Leisure magazine readers also ranked Regent Seven Seas among the “Top 10 Large-Ship Cruise Lines” in the world. The results of the magazine’s 15th annual World’s Best” survey were published in the August issue.

Regent Seven Seas’ fleet is comprised of three all-suite ships that carry from 490 to 700 guests in luxury to ports in Australia , Europe, Asia, Alaska and the Caribbean . Public areas are resplendent with rich fabrics, textures and elegant furnishings. Suites, among the spacious at sea, measure from 300 to 1,200 square feet and offer elegantly appointed living and sleeping areas, marble bathroom, walk-in closet, flat-screen TV, fully stocked bar and private balcony. Facilities include several bars, a show lounge, intimate casino, library, Internet center, card room, outdoor pool, hot tubs and Canyon Ranch SpaClub®. Depending on the ship, guests can choose from up to four, open-seating gourmet restaurants, including Prime 7, a superb, new steakhouse.

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Saturday, November 6, 2010

Germany Cruise Operator AidaCruises in the Guiness Book of World Record


The cruise ship AIDAbella has broken a Guinness World Record and is now the largest cruise ship ever to pull a water-skier.

The world record was set in early October off the Spanish coast in the Bay of Alicante. In the shallow waters during the early morning sunshine, Jan Schwiderek, a reporter for the TV show “Galileo”, skied behind AIDAbella at a speed of 14 knots for a time of precisely 6 minutes and 25 seconds.

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Friday, November 5, 2010

Luxury Operator Silversea Offers Significant Discounts for Singles Traveling Alone


Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has reduced the single supplement on more than 20 sailings in 2011 to just 10% - 25% (above the per-person, double-occupancy fare) for Vista, Veranda and Midship Veranda suites.

Initially launched last summer on select 2010 voyages, the line's specially reduced Solo Traveler fares proved such a popular incentive with independent travelers that the company is extending the offer to select 2011 itineraries.

"With special fares like these -- which can be combined with Silver Savings, Free Air and $250 Shipboard Credit offers -- there's no excuse for single travelers to stay at home," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "If you travel on your own, now is the ideal time to finalize your vacation plans for next year and treat yourself to the luxuries of a Silversea voyage."

Silversea's crew-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one ensures single guests will enjoy highly personalized service, warm hospitality, and an ambiance that makes them feel right at home. Also, on several voyages, Gentlemen Hosts will be on board, which is a real plus for single female guests looking for a dining companion or a dance partner.

All-inclusive fares include a spacious, ocean-view suite (most suites feature a private veranda), attentive butler service, complimentary wines and spirits, fine dining, sophisticated enrichment and entertainment programs, and all onboard gratuities.

Following is a sampling of 2011 voyages offering a 10% single supplement:

Arabian Peninsula 2101: Silver Wind, January 3 - 10, Dubai to Dubai. Solo Traveler fares start at $5,058 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Gentlemen Hosts will be on board. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

Caribbean Voyage 1103: Silver Cloud, January 22 - 29, San Juan to Barbados. Solo Traveler fares start at $3,078 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Voyage also offers single travelers a $250 Shipboard Credit.

Caribbean Voyage 1109: Silver Cloud, March 14 - 24, Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale. Solo Traveler fares start at $4,442 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Voyage also offers single travelers a $250 Shipboard Credit.

Caribbean Voyage 4113: Silver Whisper, April 27 - May 7, Fort Lauderdale to Barbados. Solo Traveler fares start at $4,442 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Voyage also offers single travelers a $250 Shipboard Credit.

Northern Europe Voyage 5111: Silver Spirit, May 19 - 26, Southampton to Barcelona. Solo Traveler fares start at $4,926 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Gentlemen Hosts will be on board. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

Following is a sampling of 2011 voyages offering a 25% single supplement:

South America Voyage 4103: Silver Whisper, February 5 - 23, Santiago to Fort Lauderdale. Solo Traveler fares start at $8,798 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

Far East Voyage 3106: Silver Shadow, April 6 - 15, Singapore to Hong Kong. Solo Traveler fares start at $6,648 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Gentlemen Hosts will be on board. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Voyage also offers single travelers a $250 Shipboard Credit.

Far East Voyage 3109: Silver Shadow, May 7 - 17, Shanghai to Tokyo. Solo Traveler fares start at $7,398 (reflecting a 60% Silver Savings discount). Gentlemen Hosts will be on board. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Voyage also offers single travelers a $250 Shipboard Credit.

All fares listed above are per person based on single occupancy for a Vista Suite and do not include port charges and handling fees that can range from $100 to $575 per person on these sailings, depending on the itinerary. Solo Traveler, Silver Savings and $250 Shipboard Credit are capacity-controlled programs and subject to availability. The Shipboard Credit is offered per suite, not per voyage, and only once to guests sailing on consecutive voyages. Shipboard Credit is valued in U.S. dollars, regardless of booking currency. It may not be redeemed for cash, and any unused portion will be forfeited. Additional restrictions may apply.

*FREE AIR: A free roundtrip economy air package, that includes transfers between airport and pier on the day of embarkation and disembarkation, is available from 22 gateway cities in the U.S. and Canada. It is a capacity-controlled program offered for a limited time. Additionally, there are specially priced air programs available from another 50 cities.

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