Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Norwegian Cruise Line Upgrades Fitness Program.


Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its fitness program by offering a one-of-a-kind fitness experience, TRX Suspension Training® classes across its fleet of Freestyle Cruising ships. The group exercise classes, currently only available on board Norwegian Epic, will be available fleet-wide by the end of February. Fitness enthusiasts can experience a total body workout on board without having to put their gym routines on hold while setting sail to popular cruise destinations such as Alaska; Bahamas & Florida; Bermuda; the Caribbean; Europe; and Hawai’i.

A popular fitness trend, the TRX Suspension Training® classes encompass strength training with adjustable resistance straps and allow participants, of any age and fitness level, to perform exercises that build core strength and power; increase flexibility; and enhance balance and mobility. The classes are held four times a week on seven-day sailings and are $20 for a single class or $60 for four classes.

Norwegian continues to offer guests the optimal experience to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation with the first rappelling wall at sea and climbing wall. A variety of exercise classes are also available fleet-wide including cycling, nutritional consultation, Pilates, yoga and personal training sessions. The fitness centers on board most ships feature treadmills, cross trainers, extensive weight and cardiovascular equipment, free weight areas, stretching areas and aerobic studios.

Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its fitness program by offering a one-of-a-kind fitness experience, TRX Suspension Training® classes across its fleet of Freestyle Cruising ships. The group exercise classes, currently only available on board Norwegian Epic, will be available fleet-wide by the end of February. Fitness enthusiasts can experience a total body workout on board without having to put their gym routines on hold while setting sail to popular cruise destinations such as Alaska; Bahamas & Florida; Bermuda; the Caribbean; Europe; and Hawai’i.

A popular fitness trend, the TRX Suspension Training® classes encompass strength training with adjustable resistance straps and allow participants, of any age and fitness level, to perform exercises that build core strength and power; increase flexibility; and enhance balance and mobility. The classes are held four times a week on seven-day sailings and are $20 for a single class or $60 for four classes.

Norwegian continues to offer guests the optimal experience to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation with the first rappelling wall at sea and climbing wall. A variety of exercise classes are also available fleet-wide including cycling, nutritional consultation, Pilates, yoga and personal training sessions. The fitness centers on board most ships feature treadmills, cross trainers, extensive weight and cardiovascular equipment, free weight areas, stretching areas and aerobic studios.

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Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Canival Cruise Line 2013 Carnival Valor and Carnival Victory Itinerary Changes

Carnival Cruise Lines will increase capacity on its seven-day Southern Caribbean itineraries from San Juan, as well as on its four- and five-day cruises from Miami, deploying newer, larger ships in both markets.

The 2,974-passenger Carnival Valor will launch a five-port, seven-day schedule from San Juan beginning Feb. 10, 2013, becoming the newest and largest ship to operate year-round from that port.

Carnival Valor will replace the 2,758-passenger Carnival Victory, which will reposition from San Juan to Miami to assume the Carnival Destiny’s four- and five-day cruises beginning Feb. 4, 2013. Carnival Victory will be the newest and largest ship to operate year-round four- and five-day voyages from South Florida.

Additionally, Carnival Destiny will offer a 16-day transatlantic crossing departing Miami Feb. 4 and arriving Civitavecchia (Rome) on Feb. 20, 2013. Featured ports on the crossing include Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; Malaga, Spain; Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Genoa and Livorno, Italy. Details on the Carnival Destiny’s deployment following the trans-Atlantic crossing will be announced at a later date.

Port-Intensive Week-Long Cruises from San Juan

Beginning Feb. 10, 2013, Carnival Valor will launch seven-day Southern Caribbean sailings from San Juan becoming the port’s newest and largest year-round ship. The itinerary features extended calls at five tropical islands – St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.; Bridgetown, Barbados; St. Lucia, West Indies; St. Kitts, West Indies; and St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles. In addition to featuring some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, these seaside destinations are known for their world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as water sports opportunities.

Four- and Five-Day Voyages from Miami

Carnival Victory will become the newest and largest ship to offer year-round four- and five-day cruises from Miami when it launches service on Feb. 4, 2013. Carnival Victory’s Miami-based schedule features three distinctly different itineraries, providing consumers with a variety of convenient and affordable cruise options departing from one of America’s top tourist destinations.

Four-day “long weekend” cruises departing Thursdays call at Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico; five-day cruises departing Mondays include stops at Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands; the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay; and Nassau, The Bahamas. Five-day voyages departing Saturdays feature George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Each of these destinations offers a truly unique vacation experience, with miles of gorgeous white-sand beaches and an interesting array of shore excursion choices such as zip-lining, horseback riding, kayaking, and more.

Special Voyages from Miami and San Juan

Carnival Victory will also offer a one-of-a-kind eight-day cruise from San Juan to Miami departing Jan. 27, 2013, with stops at St. Thomas, Aruba, Curacao and Nassau, while Carnival Valor will feature a one-time seven-day cruise from Miami to San Juan departing on Feb. 3, 2013, visiting Grand Turk, Antigua, St. Kitts and St. Thomas.

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Monday, February 27, 2012

Paul Gauguin Unviels 2013 Cruises and Offers Early Discounts

Paul Gauguin Cruises is finalizing plans for the 2013 season--and we wanted you to have an advance look at some of what's in store aboard our 5+-star luxury vessel next year:

Paul Gauguin CruisesItineraries
You have the opportunity to book a cruise to the island groups that have made The Gauguin the destination specialist to Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Seas. On voyages ranging from 7 to 14 nights, you can visit the exquisite Society Islands of Bora Bora, Moorea, and more ... explore the diver's paradise of the Tuamotus ... immerse themselves in the unique culture and beauty of the Cook Islands ... and discover the wild Marquesas that so captivated our ship's namesake, artist Paul Gauguin.

We will also offer a return of a popular new itinerary--the 11-night Australs & Society Islands--on a single sailing timed to coincide with prime viewing of humpback whales.

(And if you were looking forward to cruising to Fiji, don't worry--we'll be returning to that exotic paradise in 2014. Space also still remains on our two sailings to Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands in 2012. Click here for details.)
Paul Gauguin CruisesNewly Renovated Ship
The multimillion-dollar renovation completed in January means that you will enjoy the utmost in comfort and luxury in the years ahead. Among the highlights are new furnishings and décor in all public areas and suites/staterooms, improved signage and lighting, an expanded casino, new dance floors, and a new integrated display case for books and art.
Paul Gauguin CruisesSpecial Guests
The launch of an ambitious roster of guest-host sailings has proved so popular for 2012, we are busily lining up guest hosts for our 2013 sailings. Among them will be environmentalist and oceanographer Jean-Michel Cousteau, creator of The Gauguin's Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program. Mr. Cousteau will offer lectures with videos of his work and accompany several dives from the ship.

The highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, The Gauguin will continue to feature the truly all-inclusive pricing for which we are renowned. Add to that our 2013 offer of 50% off standard cruise fares plus free airfare from Los Angeles, and you will enjoy an extraordinary value in luxury cruising next year.

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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Crystal Cruises Offers Additional Overnight Stays With Back-to-Back Cruises


As Crystal Cruises prepares to segue to “All-Inclusive” starting next month, the ultra-luxe line has also been transforming in another big way: to a focus on significantly more local shipboard overnights at the beginning of cruises. For the upcoming European season, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony have doubled the number of voyages that begin with days (and nights) in port. The move eases the worry of late flight arrivals, lost luggage, relocating to/from hotels, finding quality eateries, and settling in prior to sight-seeing, while also enhancing recreational choices due to the more extensive options available on board Crystal’s ships than can be found at hotels on land.

“By adding more overnights to the cruises, especially at embarkation, travelers only have to unpack once, yet get even more time to experience a culture, while still having their Crystal home as a luxurious base,” explains President Gregg Michel. “They also begin meeting the people who will be sharing their time aboard—the staff and other travelers who will become their Crystal family by vacation’s end--all the sooner.”

Crystal has also added overnights to the middle and/or end of the majority of cruises this year. Overnights at the disembarkation ports of Venice, Barcelona or Istanbul, for example, further allow guests to see significantly more of the final destination without having to move to a hotel or rush to the airport to fly home.

Twenty-six large cultural capitals and smaller locales renowned for their charm are featured in North America, the Pacific, and Europe from March through December, with 69 overnights planned in alluring Europe alone. A sampling includes:

MEDITERRANEAN, including the BLACK SEA and MIDDLE EAST (43 overnights/10 ports): Venice, Ashdod, Istanbul, Odessa, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Monte Carlo

BALTIC and NORTHERN EUROPE: (21 overnights/4 ports): Stockholm, Copenhagen, and St. Petersburg, with five cruises featuring two nights (“double overnight”) in the latter

WESTERN EUROPE and UK (5 overnights/4 ports): Edinburgh, Bordeaux, and Reykjavik

NORTH AMERICA: (9 overnights/4 ports): NY, Quebec City, San Francisco, and Montreal

SOUTH PACIFIC, AUSTRALIA, AND NEW ZEALAND: (6 overnights/4 ports): Papeete, Auckland, Melbourne, and Sydney, with a huge complimentary VIP New Year’s Eve celebration during a double overnight in the latter.

Crystal’s new strategic planning evolution will extend through 2013 into 2014, with more than 85% of next year’s 64 itineraries offering two or more days in port, and a more than 50% increase in overnights on embarkation day.

Until February 28, per-person “Book Now” fares for 2012 start at $1,360 for luxury Mediterranean cruises, $2,965 for the rest of Europe, $2,255 for a New England/Canada voyage, and $3,370 for Hawaii and the South Pacific region -- all per person/double occupancy. Attractive air add-ons are available from more than 90 North American airports.

The renowned Crystal Experience has been rated “World’s Best” more than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history.

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Saturday, February 25, 2012

The New Disney Fantasy To Depart Hamburg Germany From New York.


Disney Cruise Line's new Disney Fantasy departed Hamburg Germany for New York last Thursday 2/16/2012. The Disney Fantasy will arrive in New York on 2/28 and spend a few days in New York for select press and select media to visit the new ship. The Disney Fantasy will be named in New York on March 1st.



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Friday, February 24, 2012

Compagnie du Ponant Golf Theme Cruises on Le Ponant

Compagnie du Ponant invites golf and travel enthusiasts to combine their two passions with a nine-day “Nice–Nice” voyage that sails to eight ports and visits five stunning courses in Italy and France aboard the three-masted sailing yacht Le Ponant. As the 64-passenger yacht traverses the Mediterranean Sea, golfers head to play rounds at courses including La Pevero, considered one of the world’s “best kept secrets,” and Cannes-Mougins, nestled within the protected lands of the Valmasque Forest. Non-golfers will also be entranced with stops in Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome; Viareggio, a placid Tuscan seaside resort town; and Calvi, home to the Genoese Citadel. The three departures – May 6, 17 and 25 – are designed for the golfer looking for a little adventure and the traveler looking to exceed the bounds of traditional cruising -- unspoiled destinations, less-visited ports and out-of-the-way locales. Stylish accommodations, elegant design and discrete, personalized service – assured by a staff to guest ratio of greater than 1:2 – all contribute to the guest’s “private yachting experience.” And for golfers - a sports director will be onboard to assist with their needs. Fares range from $4,841 to $5,453 per person, double; golfers pay an additional $760 per person.

  • Acquabona Golf Club – set in hilly countryside bordered by oak pines and eucalyptus trees, this nine-hole course with double starting ground challenges guests with uphill and downhill shots complicated by crosswinds from the sea. Situated on the Island of Elba, halfway between Portoferraio and Porto Azzurro, the course offers stunning panoramic views of the gulf and inland landscape.
  • Le Pavoniere – the former playground of Lorenzo de'Medici, this relatively flat course in the old Tavola Farmhouse Estate Park is surrounded by holm-oak woods, cluster pines and Tuscan cypresses. Designed in 1986 by Arnold Palmer, the course suits golfers of all skill levels.
  • Pevero – a creation of Robert Trent Jones Sr. is renowned for the beauty of its tree-covered hills and rocky coastline and has been ranked in the top 50 courses in the world by Golf Magazine. The innovative layout incorporates the natural challenges in the landscape, from the Mistral – the northern wind that shaped the rocks in the area – to vegetation, lakes and 70 bunkers that dot the 6,688-yard course.
  • Sperone Golf Club – comprised partly of rocky scrubland and partly linked, this 18-hole course is considered to be one of Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s masterpieces – and is ranked 6th in all of France. The course offers three signature holes: the 10th, where your drive must carry the water; the 15th, which has a cliff-top green; and the 16th, named one of the world’s most stunning Par 5 holes by Golf Magazine.
  • Golf Country Club de Cannes-Mougins – nestled within the heart of the Valmasque Forest and traversed by the Boullide River, this 6,906 yard, 18-hole course offers a round that is as breathtaking as it is complex. Founded in 1923, the course was rebuilt in 1977 by golf architects Peter Allis and Dave Thomas and has since organized the Cannes Open, serving as a highlight on the European Tour.
The Mediterranean itinerary keeps in mind there are non-golfers aboard, so after Le Ponant journeys out from Nice, the largest of the French Riviera’s balmy cities, it heads to Portoferraio. In this ancient Tuscan town, non-golfers can take in the three historical forts or Napoleon’s home while golfers head off to Acquabona Golf Club. Other highlights along the way for the ‘golf widows and widowers’ include Viareggio, a lovely seaside town where beaches reign supreme and the seaside promenade is ideal for strolling; the ancient city of Civitavecchia with its hundreds of cultural gems – churches, monasteries, fountains, ancient ruins; and the Sardinian village of Porto Rotondo -- known as the vacation village with many wonderful restaurants and stunning beaches (golfers head off to Pevero). There is also the Corsica fortress town of Bonifacio where non-golfers wander the labyrinth of narrow streets in the 1,200-year-old Old Town, or take in the white sand Corsican beaches; and the “citadel city” of Calvi, dating back to 1000BC, with its L’Eglise Santa Maria (Big Pink Church) and of course, the Citadel.

The 290-foot Le Ponant, a three-masted sailing yacht, creates an atmosphere of intimacy and luxury with a full roster of high-end amenities and a ship capacity limited to 64 passengers. The ship boasts a vast sun deck with panoramic views, two restaurants, several spacious lounges, bar complete with piano and a sea-level platform for viewing marine life. Its 32 outside staterooms have an abundance of space and amenities – king size or twin beds, a desk, minibar, dressing table, marble baths with showers and L’Occitane amenities as well as the latest technology: flat screen satellite TVs, DVD/CD players, satellite direct-dial telephone and Wi-Fi and 110/220 outlets.

Included are all meals, accompanied by wine, beer and soda (lunch, dinner); Captain’s welcome aboard cocktail party and gala dinner; 24-hour room service; golf course fees (for those with the golf package), and all entertainment, events and shows as indicated within the itinerary. Port charges/taxes, gratuities, optional excursions and transfers are additional.

Established in 1988, Compagnie du Ponant is a member of both La Charte Bleue d’Armateurs de France and IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). All of Compagnie du Ponant’s ships and cruise itineraries are designed to protect marine wildlife, coastal environments and local flora and fauna.

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Thursday, February 23, 2012

Fred Olsen's Black Watch Voted Best Entertainment By UK Cruisers

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that its 804-guest cruise ship Black Watch has been voted ‘Best for Entertainment’ in the 2012 Cruise Critic ‘Cruisers’ Choice UK Awards’ (Small Ships Category), having been awarded an impressive 4.3 out of a total of 5 for its onboard entertainment. The Cruise Critic ‘Cruisers’ Choice Awards’ are based entirely on cruisers’ opinions of UK cruise lines, and its members said of Black Watch that her staff “consistently went the extra mile”.

Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“This is great news, and we would like to thank all the Cruise Critic members who voted for us. This important accolade, voted for by genuine cruisers, builds upon our award of ‘Best Live Performance’ for the world-renowned OperaBabes in the ‘Cruise International Awards 2011’, which were also voted for by cruise fans.

“We are proud to be attracting some of the best entertainment around on board our cruise ships, from Boney M to The Osmonds, and our guests clearly appreciate the efforts that we go to attract the most impressive talent available today.”

Cruise Critic is the largest online cruise community, with 800,000 members, and the site has almost two million visitors every month.

Cruise Critic Editor in Chief, Carolyn Spencer Brown, said:

"Unlike other awards, our ‘Cruisers' Choice Awards’ are based exclusively on ratings provided by cruisers – the people whose opinions matter the most. The awards honour the ships rated the highest by cruisers in terms of service, value, facilities and accommodation."

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines was previously voted ‘Best for Solo Cruisers’ in the third annual Cruise Critic ‘2011 Editors' Picks Awards’.

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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Silversea Offers Discounts on Select 2012 Cruises

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has announced new lower fares on select voyages sailing March to November 2012, including a few expedition voyages.

The new fares are available on dozens of sailings spanning the globe from Africa, Asia and the Americas to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. And sweetening the deal are Onboard Spending Credits from $500 to $1,000 per suite available on these same voyages (with the exception of expedition cruises). The credits may be applied toward a host of onboard purchases, including shore excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, Internet packages, personal fitness training, and more.

Renowned for its luxurious small ships, personalized service and exotic destinations, Silversea is regularly lauded by travel magazines and guidebooks from around the world. Just last month the company was honored with two major awards: "Best Cruise Line for Luxury Small Ships" by the travel agent readers of Luxury Travel Advisor in the U.S., and "Best Luxury Cruise Company" by the travel agent readers of Travel Weekly in the U.K.

"With these new lower fares, we're offering travelers an irresistible opportunity to experience a luxury cruise vacation this year," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "We're combining an award-winning cruise experience with exceptional savings and generous Onboard Spending Credits, making this the perfect time to reserve a Silversea cruise."

Following is a small sampling of the several dozen 2012 voyages now offering new lower fares:

ALASKA

Voyage 3215: Silver Shadow departs Vancouver June 7 on a 7-day sailing to Seward with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Fares start at $3,199 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

ASIA

Voyage 3211: Silver Shadow departs Tokyo April 25 on an 11-day sailing to Shanghai with calls in Hiroshima, Busan, Jeju, Dalian and Tianjin (Beijing). Fares start at $3,899 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

CARIBBEAN

Voyage 5209: Silver Spirit departs Fort Lauderdale April 3 on a 9-day sailing to Barbados with calls in Tortola, St. Barts, Grenada, St. Lucia and Kingstown. Fares start at $2,499 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 7209: Silver Explorer departs Colón, Panama April 4 on a 10-day expedition cruise to Barbados with calls in San Blas Island, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Los Roques, Port of Spain and Bequia. Fares start at $2,999 per person.

MEDITERRANEAN

Voyage 5211A: Silver Spirit departs May 5 on a 12-day voyage sailing roundtrip from Monte Carlo with calls in Malta, Crete, Rhodes, Bodrum, Santorini, Sicily, Sorrento and Elba. Fares start at $3,899 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 1213: Silver Cloud departs Monte Carlo May 8 on a 12-day sailing to Rouen (Paris) with calls in Cartagena, Málaga, Portimão, Lisbon, Santander, Bordeaux and Guernsey. Fares start at $3,499 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 2230: Silver Wind departs Athens September 24 on a 7-day sailing to Venice with calls in Monemvasia, Corfu, Kotor and Split. Fares start at $1,999 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

NORTHERN EUROPE

Voyage 1214: Silver Cloud departs Rouen (Paris) May 20 on a 10-day sailing to Copenhagen with calls in Oostende, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Travemünde (Lübeck), Warnemünde (Rostock) and Rønne (Bornholm). Fares start at $3,199 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 4222: Silver Whisper departs Stockholm August 23 on a 7-day sailing to Copenhagen with calls in Tallinn, St. Petersburg (3-day/2-night stopover) and Helsinki. Fares start at $2,999 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

Fares listed above are cruise-only, per-person rates, based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite. New reduced fares that include economy class airfare and transfers are also available from select gateways in the U.S. and Canada. The fares are capacity controlled and subject to availability.

For more information and a complete list of voyages offering the new lower fares, go to http://www.silversea.com/specialoffers/?specialoffer=12803.

About Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury cruise line industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ship Silver Explorer, Silversea Cruises' itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both polar regions and over 450 fascinating destinations in between.
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Sunday, February 19, 2012

Celebrity Cruise Offers Extensive Activites on Transatlantic Cruises

From Riedel comparative wine glass workshops to cooking competitions, from Rosetta Stone language lessons to iPhoto classes, from wellness workshops to pool volleyball with the ship’s officers, the popular Celebrity Life activity program offers a multitude of ways to enjoy a modern luxury experience on every Celebrity Cruises vacation. This year, the premium cruise brand is making its already rich Celebrity Life lineup even more robust on its transatlantic sailings and calling it “Celebrity Life Plus,” amplifying the “Taste,” “Learn,” “Revive” and “Play” themes known for exciting and entertaining vacationers year-round.

“Experienced cruisers know that transatlantic cruises offer an ideal opportunity to spend luxurious days at sea learning new things, exploring new tastes, recharging, or simply having fun,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations, Celebrity Cruises. “The introduction of Celebrity Life Plus takes everything our guests already love about these sailings and about Celebrity Life and marries the two, resulting in the most comprehensive, enriching, exciting and fun long cruises, offering incredible speakers and other exclusive activities. Never before have we had such a wide array of offerings and activities on one sailing.”

In a single transatlantic cruise, Celebrity Life Plus will offer cruisers as much immersion as a theme cruise, but while actual theme cruises focus on one area of interest, Celebrity Life Plus offers a robust breadth of activities focused on multiple themes.

Vacationers who wish to explore their love of food and wine will revel in the opportunity to hear from guest chefs and wine educators, who will present cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, book signings, food-and-wine pairing dinners and more, on each transatlantic cruise.

Those who wish to sharpen their mind will take pleasure in learning from dynamic speakers from Smithsonian Journeys, the program known for often unrivaled expertise that provides Celebrity’s destination lectures on many of its regular cruises throughout the year. Astronomy experts David Hughes and Steve Maran will be onboard select sailings, as will art history expert Allison Jessing and Mark Kaufman, an expert in the burgeoning science of life beyond Earth.

Additionally, former Olympic gold medalist Frank Shorter and Hall of Fame professional basketball player Nancy Lieberman will share their experiences in the world of sports.

Additional special interest speakers will include naturalists, oceanographers and guest artists. The first of these will be the first at-sea appearance by the renowned palette knife artist Graham Denison, a master of contemporary impressionism whose work has been prominently featured by The Walt Disney Company and other leading consumer brands. Denison will be on the first 2012 spring transatlantic sailing painting live in a studio setting, offering guests an interactive class and hosting question-and-answer sessions. Guests with an interest in bringing out their own inner artist can participate in additional interactive classes led by master artists from Miami Beach’s ArtCenter / South Florida. Classes will include jewelry making, mosaics, drawing, Chinese brush painting and watercolor.

Vacationers who wish to use their time onboard to focus on their wellness will enjoy Celebrity Life’s special fitness programming; Celebrity will introduce the popular Latin and internationally inspired dance-fitness class “Zumba Fitness” into its Celebrity Life Plus line-up. The program has over 12 million followers in 125 countries. Celebrity Life Plus will offer two classes a day, led by Zumba instructors who are part of the ‘Zumba Instructor NetworkTM” and who hold licenses to teach specialty Zumba classes – Zumba Gold (for the active older adult) and Aqua Zumba, which Zumba calls “the ultimate pool party.”

The cruises that will feature Celebrity Life Plus are:

  • 14-night voyage on Celebrity Solstice, departing Fort Lauderdale, Florida on April 15, 2012 and arriving in Barcelona, Spain on April 29
  • 10-night cruise on Celebrity Eclipse, departing Miami, Florida on April 21, 2012 and arriving in Southampton, England on May 1
  • 15-night cruise on Celebrity Constellation, departing Fort Lauderdale on May 5, 2012 and arriving in Amsterdam, Holland on May 20
  • 14-night cruise on Celebrity Equinox, departing Fort Lauderdale on April 16, 2012 and arriving in Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy on April 30
  • 9-night cruise on Celebrity Silhouette, departing Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey on April 22, 2012 and arriving in Rome (Civitavecchia) on May 1
  • 13-night cruise on Celebrity Eclipse, departing Southampton on October 27, 2012 and arriving in Fort Lauderdale on November 9
  • 14-night cruise on Celebrity Equinox, departing Rome (Civitavecchia) on November 26, 2012 and arriving in Fort Lauderdale on December 10
  • 15-night cruise on Celebrity Constellation, departing Southampton on November 30, 2012 and arriving in Miami on December 16
  • 15-night cruise on Celebrity Silhouette, departing Rome (Civitavecchia) on December 1, 2012 and arriving in Fort Lauderdale on December 16
Additional details are available at www.celebritycruises.com/celebritylifeplus. Select Celebrity Life Plus and Celebrity Life activities require a fee.

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Saturday, February 18, 2012

MSC Cruise Countdown to the Arrival of the MSC Divina

When MSC Divina joins the MSC Cruises fleet in May, she will take the line’s flagship Fantasia-class of ships to another level.

Named in honor of MSC Cruises’ “godmother,” Italian film icon Sophia Loren, and with decks named after the Gods of Ancient Greece, MSC Divina will feature several design enhancements that make her truly a “divine goddess,” as MSC Cruises continues its successful partnership with award-winning De Jorio Design International.

Among the differences between MSC Divina and sister ships MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida are:

Increased capacity, with 1,751 staterooms hosting 3,502 guests (double occupancy) on the 139,400 ton ship, making it the largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet.
Infinity Garden Pool and “beach zone” in the aft, with spectacular views of the ship’s wake
Cutting-edge technical changes that include more powerful propulsion motors, new alternators and state-of-the-art HVAC chillers
A new fresh water production system requiring 40 percent less power, assuring less environmental impact

Like her sister ships, MSC Divina will feature the exclusive MSC Yacht Club. With 69 suites (verses 72 on sister ships) in this “ship-within-a-ship,” guests indulge in comfort and convenience, from their own personal Butler to complimentary wines and spirits available any time of the day in the MSC Yacht Club’s exclusive lounges and pool area. This oasis of tranquility includes several private venues, including Le Muse panoramic restaurant, Top Sail Lounge, pool and relaxation area.

All MSC Divina guests have access to three restaurants and a Tex-Mex alternative dining restaurant, Acqua Park (with 150 fountains and water jets, whirlpools and pool bar), MSC Aurea Spa with Balinese-inspired treatments, children’s and teen areas, interactive 4-D Cinema, virtual Formula 1 auto racing, acclaimed international entertainment in the 1,603-seat Pantheon Theatre and much more.

Following her May 26 christening in Marseille, France, MSC Divina sails May 27 on a 6-night cruise to Venice, calling at Civitavecchia, Messina, Valetta and Dubrovnik. The ship will then begin a series of 7-night Eastern Mediterranean roundtrip itineraries from Venice and Bari, calling in Katakalon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik, through October 2012.

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Friday, February 17, 2012

Carnival Lengend to Sail in Europe in 2013

Carnival Cruise Lines will launch its widest array of European itineraries ever with Carnival Legend offering an exciting choice of options, including the line’s first Norwegian fjords itinerary and its first extended program from the UK, as well as cruises to the Baltic, Mediterranean and British Isles, beginning in spring 2013.

Carnival Legend’s schedule will encompass 12-day voyages to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic departing from Dover (London), along with 12-day Mediterranean cruises departing from Venice, Barcelona and Dover.

In total, Carnival Legend will operate 17 European cruises between April 22 and Oct. 31, 2013, visiting 34 ports across 18 countries.

“For the Carnival Legend’s 2013 European season, we’ve assembled a truly outstanding collection of ports that offer our guests an exciting diversity of experiences, from viewing breathtaking Norwegian fjords and the lush Irish countryside to visiting centuries-old landmarks and exploring UNESCO World Heritage cities such as St. Petersburg and Tallinn,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.

Norway/Western Europe, British Isles Cruises Round-Trip from Dover

For the first time, Carnival Legend will offer an extended series of voyages from Dover (London) with 12-day cruises to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic, each offering a spectacular array of interesting and awe-inspiring ports of call, from quaint villages to cosmopolitan cities.

The program includes a “Norway & Western Europe” cruise offering a unique combination of ports, as well as the unforgettable experience of sailing the Norwegian fjords. The voyage will operate Sept. 1-13, 2013, and visit Alesund, Bergen, Stavanger, and Oslo, Norway; Hamburg, Germany; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

A “British Isles, Norway & France” voyage will depart Sept. 13, 2013, and feature stops at Stavanger, Norway; Edinburgh, Invergordon, and Glasgow (Greenock) Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

Six “Baltic Wonders & St. Petersburg” cruises will also be offered, visiting Copenhagen, Denmark; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight call); Tallinn, Estonia; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Departure dates include June 21, July 3, 15 and 27, and Aug. 8 and 20, 2013. The June 21 departure will visit Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium, instead of Amsterdam.

12-day Mediterranean Cruises

Several different Mediterranean cruises will also be offered, providing guests an opportunity to experience and explore some of the region’s most popular and picturesque ports of call and enjoy a wide variety of dining, shopping and sightseeing choices.

The schedule includes 12-day cruises from Venice to Barcelona departing May 4 and 28, and Oct. 31, 2013. On these voyages, guests can tour medieval castles, sample delicious local cuisine, and marvel at ornate churches and other historic architecture as they visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Livorno, Italy; and Marseilles, France. The May 4 and Oct. 31 departures also include Athens, Greece; and Izmir, Turkey; while the May 28 voyage stops at Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Carnival Legend will also operate 12-day Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona to Dover June 9-21 and from Dover to Barcelona Sept. 25-Oct. 7, 2013. These cruises offer guests the chance to sample all the region has to offer with extended visits to stunning seaside destinations in five countries, including Marseilles, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Livorno and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Malaga, Spain; and Lisbon, Portugal.

Also featured are three “Grand Mediterranean” voyages sailing from Barcelona to Venice April 22, May 16 and Oct. 19, 2013. These voyages feature stops at Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseilles, France; Livorno, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Messina, Italy; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, along with an overnight call in Venice to provide guests with ample opportunities to explore this world-class city. The Oct. 19 voyage will include a stop at Olbia (Sardinia), Italy, instead of Monaco.

Rounding out Carnival Legend’s 2013 Europe program is a 12-day voyage round-trip from Barcelona Oct. 7-19, 2013, with calls at Marseilles, France; Livorno, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Naples, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Venice (overnight call) and Messina, Italy.

15-Day Transatlantic Crossings in April and November 2013

Carnival Legend will operate a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Tampa on April 7 and arriving Barcelona April 22, 2013. Featured ports on this voyage include King’s Wharf, Bermuda; Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; and Malaga and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Following its European schedule, the ship will operate another 15-day transatlantic crossing from Barcelona to Tampa Nov. 12-27, 2013, calling at Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands; and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.

From Tampa, Carnival Legend will sail on a special four-day cruise before resuming seven-day Caribbean service Dec. 1, 2013. The week-long cruises call at Half Moon Cay; Nassau, The Bahamas; and Key West, Fla.; or George Town, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; Mahogany Bay, Roatan; and Belize City, Belize.

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

MSC Cruise Introduces Spa for Teens and Families

MSC Cruises has made it easier for the entire family to relax by adding new teen treatments to its wellness facilities at the MSC Aurea Spa.

Teenage guests on board MSC Cruises’ ships can now kick back and enjoy fabulous treatments specially tailored for their skin and styles.

Tantalizing Teen-Tailored Treatments

Teens can combat oiliness, acne or impurities with the Fabulous Fresh Facial or awaken the senses with the aromatherapy-based Fabulous Fragrant Facial, choosing aromas that include Citrus Fruits, Floral, Liquorice or Milk and Honey.

Get a new look with a Hand Chic manicure or Foot Chic pedicure, choosing from a wide range of colorful and trendy designs.

Send shockwaves with a painlessly stenciled, non-toxic, non-permanent Taboo Tattoo, the latest his/hers Hip Hair style from experts tuned into the latest styles, or a fabulous, individual new look inspired by a Let’s Make Up! session. Choose a totally natural look or a daring new image with the help of the beauty team.

Parents haven’t been left out either, with the 45-minute Magic Touch revitalizing body massage offering girls and their moms, or boys and their dads, the perfect opportunity to de-stress together. For teens 14 and older who prefer a more strenuous way of spending quality time together, a personal trainer can whip mom and daughter/dad and son into shape with a fun one-hour 1-To-1 Workout.

Prices for the new “Teenage Kicks” treatments range from $26-$66 per person. The menu complements the many other exclusive treatments for all ages offered at the MSC Aurea Spa: an array of body and facial treatments, and Balinese, Shiatsu and Thai massages which truly put the MSC Aurea Spa in a class of its own.

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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Princess Cruises Unveils New Features and Itineraries for the New Royal Princess

Princess Cruises today marked Valentine’s Day by unveiling the maiden season itineraries of its highly anticipated Royal Princess debuting in June 2013, as well as some additional features of the ship’s signature, and greatly expanded atrium, the social hub of the ship.

Preceding the ship’s inaugural program of 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises between Barcelona and Venice beginning on June 23, Royal Princess will sail on her inaugural voyage, a seven-day Iberia cruise from Southampton to Barcelona departing June 16.

The Royal Princess maiden season cruises will open for sale on March 15, 2012. There will also be two three-day preview cruises sailing roundtrip from Southampton on June 10 and 13 that will be available for booking at a later date.

“It’s fitting that our new ship will cruise on our most popular Europe itinerary, the Grand Mediterranean,” said Jan Swartz, executive vice president for Princess Cruises. “And the shorter preview cruises prior to the Mediterranean season certainly offer a unique opportunity to sample the new Royal Princess experience our passengers are eagerly awaiting.”

Also revealed today were more details about the ship’s atrium and its vibrant collection of always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. This signature space will be 50 percent larger than on the newest class of Princess ships and will debut a number of brand new features, including Bellini’s Italian cocktail bar, Ocean Terrace seafood bar, a gelateria, and Celebrations, a new gift shop for those marking special occasions onboard.

Favorite passenger spaces also return, many with a new twist, including the International Café, Sabatini’s Trattoria, and Crooners martini bar which will now feature dueling piano entertainment and a dramatic ocean vista. And the stunning Bar Piazza will feature an exclusive twin tea tower with over 300 tea and infusion combinations.

“Many features aboard the new Royal Princess will be exciting evolutions of the popular and successful features found throughout our fleet, and the atrium is no exception,” added Swartz. “The expansion in size of this space provided us an opportunity to add some brand new venues to what is already a favorite passenger area.”

Inaugural Season Cruises

3-day Advance Preview Sailings departing June 10 and 13, 2013

These cruises will sail roundtrip from Southampton with a call at St. Peter Port on the Island of Guernsey in the English Channel. The preview sailings will open for booking at a later date when the inaugural celebrations for the ship are in place. Interested passengers are advised to follow www.princess.com for the availability of these cruises.

7-day Maiden Iberia Voyage departing June 16, 2013

The ship’s maiden voyage sails from Southampton to Barcelona with calls at Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Gibraltar and Malaga.

12-day Grand Mediterranean Sailings departing June 23 through September 27, 2013

The nine Grand Mediterranean sailings will cruise between Barcelona and Venice, with calls at Toulon (for Provence), Livorno (for Florence and Pisa), Civitavecchia (for Rome), Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), Mykonos, Istanbul, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Athens and finally an overnight stay in the beautiful Italian city of Venice. Passengers on the seven-day voyage can combine their sailing with the first Grand Mediterranean cruise for a 19-day Grand Adventure.

18-day Maiden Venetian Passage departing October 9, 2013

This cruise begins in Venice with an overnight in this iconic city, and sets sail to Fort Lauderdale with calls at Messina (Sicily), Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), Civitavecchia (for Rome), Cannes (for Monte Carlo), Barcelona and Funchal (Madeira Island).

Atrium Features

Royal Princess’ expanded atrium is designed to enhance the lively street-café atmosphere passengers have become accustomed to on current Princess ships. With more open space for viewing live entertainment in the Piazza from decks 6 and 7, as well as new venues that appear to float mid-air, this new atrium represents a prototype design that builds on the line’s classic style. Atrium features include:

Deck 5:

International Café
As on most Princess ships, the International Café will be serving fresh-baked pastries, panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies specialty coffees, and sweet desserts, but aboard Royal Princess this favorite venue will have an expanded seating area and an eye-catching new lighting feature, making it the perfect area to grab a light meal, meet friends for coffee or enjoy an a snack while watching the array of Piazza entertainers.

Celebrations Gift Shop
A new shopping stop, Celebrations will offer gifts especially for passengers celebrating a special occasion, or those looking for a well-deserved indulgence. Passengers will find premium chocolates, colorful flower arrangements, and other gift items perfect for someone enjoying a special day.

Gelato
For a delicious desert or afternoon delight, Royal Princess’ gelateria will serve up a variety of tempting treats such as designer sundaes, sweet crespelle (Italian crepes), creamy fruit smoothies, frosty shakes, and delightful homemade waffle ice cream cones.

Vines
A Princess passenger favorite, Vines wine bar will be pouring as many as 30 different wines by the glass, plus serving up an selection of tapas or sushi to accompany the many vintages. Passengers can also find favorite bottles for purchase or a gift for their favorite wine lover at Vines shop.

Bar Piazza and Tea Tower
This classic cocktail bar complements the Piazza vibe by offering an endless array of “anything you can think of” libations, complemented by a twin tea tower of artisan-crafted varieties and infusions for custom creations with over 300 possibilities.

Mini-Piazza with Water Feature
Just adjacent to the Piazza, a sparkling water feature will set off an extension area featuring the Passenger Services Desk and Shore Excursion Desk. This dazzling Mini-Piazza will provide a special atmosphere for passengers making a visit to ask questions of Princess’ gracious crew members.

Sabatini’s
Also located in the Mini-Piazza will be Princess’ signature Tuscan-inspired specialty restaurant, Sabatini’s. Known for its celebrated pastas, seafood and Italian specialties, Sabatini’s will feature a fresh menu of sophisticated Italian favorites with an a la carte experience. With a refined yet casual Italian ambiance, Sabatini’s offers attentive personal service and the feeling of having just stepped into a ristorante in the heart of Tuscany.

Deck 6:

Bellini’s
This brand new Italian-inspired cocktail venue is a perfect place to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the atrium’s activities, while indulging in a Bellini-inspired drink. Passengers will also enjoy views of the Piazza below in this “floating” space.

Alfredo’s
After quickly becoming a passenger favorite since its debut aboard Grand Princess, Alfredo’s Pizzeria has kept up Princess’ reputation for serving the best pizza at sea. Aboard Royal Princess the sit-down restaurant will feature an expanded menu and more spacious seating, perfect for enjoying the fresh toppings and crisp crusts of a personal pizza right from the eatery’s stone oven.

Photo and Video Gallery
Now conveniently located in the atrium, the Photo and Video Gallery will offer new high-tech digital photo stations to help passengers easily find their images.

Deck 7:

Ocean Terrace
The new Ocean Terrace seafood bar will offer pearls of the ocean, fresh from the sea. Seafood lovers can indulge in an array of treats, including sushi, sashimi, ceviche and caviar in a space that seems to be floating over the atrium levels below.

Crooners
An expanded Crooners Bar will not only offer the venue’s famous menu of 75 different martinis and classic 1960s-style “Rat Pack” atmosphere, but also a new entertainment option with dueling glass pianos for a lively show to go with the breathtaking views.

Additional information about other ship features will be released in the coming months.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is the first of two new-generation ships for Princess which are being built by Fincantieri at their Monfalcone, Italy shipyard. Some additional new features found aboard will be an over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship’s starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel, and the similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas. Also on her top decks, Royal Princess will feature a new adults-only pool surrounded by seven plush private cabanas that appear to be floating on the water, two additional pools, a dazzling water and light show, an expanded version of Princess’ signature adults-only haven, The Sanctuary, and the popular poolside theater, Movies Under the Stars.

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Compagnie du Ponant Charters Back Le Diamant for Summer 2012 Northern European Cruises

Based on the Ponant Website it appears the Compagnie du Ponant will continue to operate the Le Diamant for a series of Northern European cruises in July, August and September 2012.

It appears that Quark Expeditions will be utilizing the ship for the fall and winter and the ship will be available for charter during the summer of 2013.

International Shipping Partners (ISP) had arrranged the sale of the Le Diamant to Bahamian Interest earlier in the year and now appears the ship is being chartered back to Ponant for the Summer.

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Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Princess Cruises Sapphire Princess Emerges from Refit

Sapphire Princess set sail this weekend after an extensive three-week makeover to add a host of signature Princess Cruises’ signature features to the ship.

Currently sailing on a cruise to Hawaii, Sapphire Princess passengers can now enjoy a brand-new Piazza atrium with the International Café and Vines wine bar, plus the new Alfredo’s Pizzeria. On the top deck, the cruise ship now features a giant Movies Under the Stars screen, and passengers can also relax in the ship’s “pocket of tranquility,” the adults-only Sanctuary.

“Making these changes to Sapphire Princess was an important step to ensure that our signature shipboard features can be found wherever our passengers want to sail,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.

An album of photos of the renovation process is now available on Princess’ Flickr page.

The many changes to Sapphire Princess include:

New Piazza Atrium – The ship’s atrium space has been redesigned to include this signature Princess feature – a European-inspired social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza features the International Café for pastries, fresh panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers can 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 they can purchase their favorite bottle.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria – Introduced last year aboard Grand Princess, Alfredo’s has now expanded to its second location on Sapphire Princess. The sit-down pizzeria serves up an enticing menu of freshly prepared, hand-stretched, individual-size pizzas. Named for the line’s master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria features an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create their custom-made pies.

Movies Under the Stars – Sapphire Princess has become the final ship in the current Princess fleet to introduce Movies Under the Stars on board. The giant poolside movie screen now showcases feature films, concerts, awards shows and sports events, and passengers can enjoy their viewing on padded loungers under warm, fleece blankets. Complimentary popcorn and other treats enhance the al fresco entertainment experience.

The Sanctuary – Sapphire Princess was also the final ship to receive The Sanctuary, a tranquil retreat exclusively for adults. Added prior to drydock, the new Sanctuary space has already received an enthusiastic welcome from passengers enjoying the enhanced comforts of this peaceful oasis, as Serenity Stewards attend to their every need, offering refreshing beverages, light snacks, pre-loaded MP3 players, and the cooling mist of an Evian atomizer.

Also part of the ship’s renovation were several relocated and upgraded venues, including the Art Gallery, Internet Café and Library, and the Photo-Video Gallery. New carpet, upholstery and tile work was added throughout the ship, and staterooms now feature new flat-screen televisions.

Sapphire Princess set sail on February 4 on a 14-day Hawaiian Islands cruise roundtrip from Los Angeles.

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Monday, February 13, 2012

Princess Cruises Offers European Cruise Discounts.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Princess Cruises will be offering special fares on cruises to Europe – with The Love Boat® Sale from February 13-20. Passengers can book during the event for up to 2-for-1 savings, plus receive an onboard credit of up to $100.

Up to 30 Europe cruise itineraries are included in the sale, including cruises to the romantic cities and islands of the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, as well as “bucket list” destinations such as the Holy Land or British Isles.

In addition to the sale fares, passengers booking interior or oceanview staterooms can receive an onboard credit of $25 (cruises up to 9 days) to $50 (cruises 10 days or longer), and in balcony staterooms or above can get credits of $50 (cruises up to 9 days) or $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer). All onboard credits are offered per stateroom.

Examples of sale fares include:

  • 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises from $1,145
  • 12-day Greek Isles cruises from $1,145
  • 12-day Holy Land cruises from $1,595
  • 12-day British Isles cruises from $1,790

All cruise prices are per person. The Love Boat® Sale runs from February 13 at 12:01 am through February 20 at 11:59 pm, and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico.

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Sunday, February 12, 2012

Cunard's Queens to Rendezvous to Celebrate Queen's Jubilee



Cunard Line will celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a unique Cunard Royal Rendezvous on 5 June 2012, the final day of the Jubilee celebrations. Her Majesty has long been associated with Cunard, being the only person to have attended the naming of all three Cunard Elizabeths, beginning in 1938.

This will be the first time that the three ships of the Cunard fleet – the three largest Cunarders ever built – will have been seen arriving and departing together in formation at their home port of Southampton.

“Cunard is delighted to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in a way that will give everyone, especially our guests, a truly remarkable day that they will feel proud to talk about for years to come,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “We are thrilled to take part in such an historic occasion, marking the sixty glorious years of Her Majesty’s reign in a fitting, memorable and spectacular way,” Shanks continued.

Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 will approach the port soon after first light on Tuesday 5 June, sailing in single file up the Solent River, with a flotilla of small boats expected to welcome them in.

As Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria tie up at their berths, Queen Mary 2 will follow on, passing each ship in turn, with crew lining the foredeck of all three vessels, and the ships’ whistles sounding in salute of Her Majesty’s Jubilee.

Events will be happening throughout the day, to create both an outstanding guest experience and a fitting commemoration of Her Majesty’s reign. The celebrations will culminate in an evening spectacular where all three ships will be brought within close proximity of each other, and a fusillade of fireworks and special effects will light up the evening sky beyond them.

Queen Mary 2 will then lead Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria in single file down the Solent as all three ships set out on their celebratory Jubilee voyages.

Further details of the day’s events will be released in due course.

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