Cruise-Guru: July 2012

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas 2013 Deployment to Asia


Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas 2013 Deployment to Asia

At a press conference in Beijing, China, executives from Royal Caribbean International announced that the recently revitalized Mariner of the Seas will head to Asia in June 2013 and offer numerous itineraries from China and Singapore to Southeast Asia, Japan and Korea throughout the rest of the year.

The addition of a second 3,114-guest ship to China, to join Voyager of the Seas, illustrates the company’s commitment to the growing cruise industry in Asia. Together, they represent the two largest capacity and most innovative cruise ships operating in the region.

Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., and Adam Goldstein, president and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean International, made the announcement with Dr. Zinan Liu, group managing director for China and Asia.

Royal Caribbean International will deploy Mariner of the Seas to China in June 2013. Offering a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from three nights to 12 nights, the move is designed to offer additional capacity to a fast growing Chinese cruise vacation population, as well as attract cruise guests from around the world to visit China and sail around Asia. The ship will adopt the same product customizations made for Voyager of the Seas' entry in the market – including Chinese-style menus, as well as enhanced retail and entertainment offerings, and language services.

“The opportunities to attract guests from China to cruise are abundant,” says Goldstein. “Mariner of the Seas recently received a host of Royal Advantage enhancements and I’m confident cruisers here will be amazed by the Oasis-class innovations available for everyone of all ages on this ship.”

“We’ve made it clear we see Asia in general, and China in particular, as a strategic objective,” adds Fain. “We have been so pleased by the market’s response to bringing Voyager of the Seas to Asia that it made strategic sense to send a second ship of equal size.”

Mariner of the Seas weighs 138,279 gross registered tons, spans 15 guest decks and was built in Turku, Finland before making its maiden voyage in 2003. The ship will depart the Caribbean in April and head to Singapore and onto China via Dubai and the Suez Canal.

“This is another major step forward, in a short period of time, for the cruise industry in China,” says Dr. Liu. “The feedback from guests sailing with Royal Caribbean has been tremendously positive, and we look forward to continuing to work with other Chinese ports and travel partners to further develop the country’s overall cruise economy,” says Dr. Zinan.

When she sails into China in June 2013, Mariner of the Seas will offer guests the benefits of the multi-million dollar Royal Advantage strategy, including enhanced staterooms and other innovative features that Royal Caribbean International has created in recent years. As well as a greater variety of new onboard dining and entertainment options, there will be:

Outdoor movie screen: A giant outdoor screen overlooking the pool deck.
Royal Promenade: An indoor “main street” stretching nearly the full length of the middle of the ship, lined with places to eat, drink, shop and be entertained.
“Studio B” Ice Rink: An ice skating rink for guests that doubles as a 700-seat venue for ice show productions with world-class figure skaters.
Boardwalk Dog House: A casual eatery for guests to enjoy a range of brats, links, wieners and dogs.
New Technology: Guests will enjoy pervasive Wi-Fi, interactive flat-panel televisions in staterooms, and electronic mustering.
Digital Wayfinding Systems: Onboard activities, real time updates, customized directions and routing, as well as ship factoids will all be at guests’ fingertips with new plasma and LCD touch screen signs prominently placed throughout the ship.
Sports facilities including an inline skating track, Royal Caribbean’s signature rock-climbing wall, a 9-hole mini golf course, a golf simulator, a full size sports court with a basketball court, three swimming pools and six whirlpools.

There’s also the cruise line's signature Viking Crown Lounge, the Schooner Bar, Casino Royale, a 1,400-square meter Day Spa & Fitness Center, and complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program. In addition to a fabulous range of activities, the ship offers conference facilities which provide the ideal environment for corporate meetings.

Underscoring the significance of the growing Chinese cruise economy and established desire to sail with Royal Caribbean International, Voyager of the Seas is confirmed to return to China in 2013 for a second season. Meanwhile, Legend of the Seas, which has operated out of Singapore and Shanghai for the past three years, will return to Europe.

About Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand.

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Monday, July 23, 2012

Norwegian Cruise Line Adds Exclusive Cabanas to Private Island - Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line Adds Cabanas to Private Island - Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that “Cabanas on the Cay,” exclusive private cabanas with VIP service and amenities, are now available on Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s 250-acre private island in the Bahamas. The launch of “Cabanas on the Cay” marks another significant addition to the island as part of the $25 million dollar enhancement project.

To learn what is included in your private cabana, see photos and read about what there is to do at Great Stirrup Cay -- Click here to go to our sister site -> NYCruiseInfo Blog

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Friday, July 20, 2012

Solo Traveler Discount on Sea Voyager Expeditions

Sea Voyager Expeditions - Sea Voyager Offers Single Discounts.

Solo travelers save when booking a true adventure experience with Sea Voyager Expeditions – paying the same per person price for those booking as a couple. The company, launching in August, is offering this no supplement program for those booking any 2012 or 2013 sailing by Oct. 31, 2012. The relaxed and informal nature of the sailings and ship make it easy for singles to meet other guests, share meals and get to know each other on the varied excursions and activities. Special single fares for the seven- to 12-night sailings range from $3,950 to $7,450 (vs. the singles brochure rate of $6,350 to $8,950). Offers are capacity controlled and based on stateroom availability.

The new cruise line sets itself apart from competitors by focusing attention on four of the world’s most fauna- and wildlife-rich countries – Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Ecuador – visiting secluded bays, untouched wilderness, rarely visited small villages and Indigenous peoples. Nearly all of the itineraries transit the Panama Canal – truly a unique experience from the perspective of a small ship. Rounding out the unique exploration opportunities is the included onboard and shore-based education provided by the five expedition guides and naturalists aboard every voyage.

These experts offer insight into a wide array of fascinating topics, including local culture, history, wildlife, geology and climate. Included are all meals, pre-post hotels, shore tours, admission to museums and parks, tax and port fees, and transfers when the SVE air program is used.

Itineraries choices include:

Eight-night “Caribbean Parks & Islands of Colmbia & Panamá” which focuses on the Panamá Canal transit, the San Blas Islands, and the rainforests, clear waters and exotic wildlife of Columbia’s rarely visited coast;
12-night “Pacific Wilds of Ecuador, Colombia & Panama” and its similar reverse sailing, “Last Frontier of Panama Colombia & Ecuador ” visiting Colombia’s Malaga Bay and Gorgona Island NP and giving guests the chance to hike Panama’s Darien Jungle and Ecuador’s Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve;
Eight-night “Unspoiled Pacific of Panama & Costa Rica” where highlights include Las Perlas Islands, Coiba Island – the world’s third largest marine park -- and Osa Peninsula, named by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth”;
Eight-night “Treasures of Costa Rica & Panama,” where guests explore the Secas Islands with hikes, by Zodiac and kayak, and snorkel the secluded bays, Marenco Biological Reserve with its monkeys, toucans, parrots, manta rays, dolphins and other exotic wildlife, and Panama’s Darien Jungle with a visit to the local Emberá village.

Sea Voyager Expeditions understands that every guest goes at his or her own speed and enjoys different interests. So the line’s flexible and low-key approach to touring allows guests to participate as much or as little as they wish – hiking the near-virgin forest trails one day, relaxing in the warm waters of a secluded beach, kayaking the calm waters of a hidden bay the next or just going for a leisurely swim off the back platform of the ship. The friendly international crew ensures the onboard comfort and needs of the guests are met. Meals are prepared by talented chefs making use of local ingredients, freshly caught seafood and, of course, locally grown coffee.

The M/V Sea Voyager is a versatile expedition ship designed for the tropics. Its 60-passenger capacity allows for easy on/off access, a more personal experience, and close to nature feel. All staterooms are air-conditioned with outside views through panoramic windows, ample storage, and private bath. The ship has a roomy lounge with large windows, bar, fitness room, library with WiFi, massage room, dining room with 2-12 guests per table, buffet, deck space, fore, aft and covered decks, and a platform for getting on/off Zodiacs, kayaks, swimming and snorkeling.

The Sea Voyager Expeditions team is comprised of cruise industry professionals, many with more than 25 years of expedition travel experience. The company is committed to becoming the leader in tropical expeditions and preserving their unique destinations.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

SeaDream Yacht Club now Offers Gourmet Glatt-Kosher Cuisine for Private Charters

SeaDream Yacht Club's Private Yachts

SeaDream Yacht Club is pleased to announce their partnership with Jon Greenseid, a nationally recognized kosher consultant. SeaDream is now prepared to accommodate Glatt-Kosher private charters under strict rabbinical supervision.

Realizing that market demand could be developed, SeaDream’s Executive Chef, Sudesh Kishore applied his culinary skill to kosher offerings. SeaDream has created a masterful menu with both traditional and contemporary Glatt-Kosher dishes.

SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto said “Research indicates the kosher industry continues to grow at an astounding rate. Starting this fall, on voyages sailing roundtrip from San Juan, Puerto Rico we’ll be able to accommodate kosher private charter weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, charity benefits, corporate and personal events.”

Chic and stylish, SeaDream’s 56-stateroom yachts are favored for their elegant informality, state-of-the-art facilities, personal service provided by a crew of 95, inclusive open bar and gratuities, ocean view accommodations, luxury spa and world class cuisine.

For more details about SeaDream and private charters, please contact your travel professional or SeaDream Yacht Club.

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Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Voyages of Discovery's Voyager to Undergo Next Step in Rennovation

Voyager of Voyages of Discovery Next Refit Scheduled.

Voyager, the 540-passenger ship joining the Voyages of Discovery fleet in December, will undertake its final refurbishments in Portland Port in the UK this winter.

Voyager is due to arrive at the UK south coast port on November 1 for a month-long refurbishment ahead of its maiden voyage on December 4.

Northern Ireland-based refurbishment specialist Mivan will be completing the project which marks the final stage in a multimillion-pound investment by Voyages of Discovery to introduce the ship to its fleet.

Key new additions to Voyager will include the introduction of an explorer theme throughout the entire ship, reinforcing the destination-led cruise offering including a new Scott’s Lounge—a classic piano bar serving cocktails into the evening—and new specialty restaurant, the Explorer Club.

The addition of a ‘look-out’ lounge providing panoramic views from the front of the ship and a new terrace with all-weather awning added to the Veranda Restaurant will allow passengers to dine al fresco.

Introduction of new digital media players in all cabins, new artwork added to key public spaces and the upgrade of all soft furnishing in public spaces are part of the refit, as is a complete refurbishment of the library and its reference books and a new dual-purpose Bridge Club and function room.

Formerly the Alexander von Humboldt, Voyager has received significant investments since its purchase by All Leisure Group in 2009. These include a major technical upgrade and the addition of more balcony cabins.

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Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Norwegian Cruise Line to Purchase the Norwegian Sky

On June 1, 2012, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL Corporation Ltd., “Norwegian” or “the Company”) announced the signing of a memorandum of agreement to exercise its option to purchase Norwegian Sky. The transaction is expected to close shortly.

To learn more about the purchase of the Norwegian Sky click here -> you will be connected to our sister site -> Nick's Cruise Corner Blog
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Monday, July 16, 2012

InnerSea Discoveries Adds an Expedition Vessel to Hawaii in 2013

Wilderness Explorer - InnerSea Discoveries - 2013 Hawaii Sailings

InnerSea Discoveries’ 76-guest expedition vessel Wilderness Explorer begins active adventure cruising among the Hawaiian Islands in fall 2013. The boat joins the line’s 36-guest upscale yacht Safari Explorer offering island explorations from the sea.

From November 2013 through April 2014, the Wilderness Explorer will sail seven-night AdventureBound Hawaii cruises between Oahu and the Big Island and reverse. The itinerary visits Ka’ena Point State Park, Wai’anae Harbor, Maui, Lana’i, Honomalino Bay, Opihihali and Kailua-Kona. Guests will also enjoy scenic cruising and searching for whales and dolphins in the wildlife-rich Humpback National Marine Sanctuary.

“We are sending the Wilderness Explorer to Hawaii to add another option for travelers seeking an active island adventure at a moderate price.” said Tim Jacox, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “It’s a tremendous value when you add in all the included activities and the ability to explore multiple scenic islands.”

Highlights of the new itinerary include snorkeling at Molokini’s undersea volcanic crater, a night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta Rays, watching whales and dolphins and guided hikes exploring scenic areas on all four islands. Expert naturalists provide interpretation on guided excursions ashore and at sea.

The Wilderness Explorer has a swim platform for easy access to water sports equipment and entry into the water. A specially built kayak launch platform comfortably launches four kayaks at once. Guests enjoy included water sports activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, skiff explorations and swimming. Guests may also take a spin on the innovative human-powered watercraft powered by two peddlers and up to six paddlers.

On board, innovative meals are served buffet style to accommodate a flexible schedule of adventure activities. A wellness program includes a sauna, fitness equipment, complimentary yoga on deck and massages for a fee. Cabins feature a flatscreen TV/DVD player, iPod dock and eco-friendly bath amenities. In the lounge, guests will find a selection of games and a library of books and DVDs.

For luxury adventures in the Hawaiian Islands, the line’s 36-guest Safari Explorer sails seven-night cruises between Hawaii, the Big Island and Lana’i with two days of activities on Moloka’i. Guests making a new reservation on the yacht by September 30, 2012 receive a $500 travel credit per couple for cruises November 2012-April 2013.

Cruise fares on the Wilderness Explorer start at $2,495 based on double occupancy. To book an un-cruise adventure or to request additional information, contact your travel agent or InnerSea Discoveries

Friday, July 13, 2012

Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas Fresh From the Refit

On June 1, 2012 – Royal Caribbean International’s Grandeur of the Seas completed its $48 million revitalization at the Navantia ship yard in Cadiz, Spain. The bow-to-stern revitalization of Grandeur of the Seas included the addition of five new dining venues, technological upgrades, a pool side LED screen, a refresh of all furniture, carpet, upholstery and staterooms as well as new entertainment offering including a spectacular aerial entertainment in its six deck Centrum.

For the full story, click here to be connected to our sister site - Nick's Cruise Corner Blog.

Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas Emerges From Shipyard and Refit.

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Thursday, July 12, 2012

Carnival Cruises Takes Possession of the New Carnival Breeze

Carnival Cruise Line's New Carnival Breeze

On May 31, 2012 At a traditional maritime handover ceremony held at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, Carnival Cruise Lines took delivery of the new 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze, the 24^th vessel in the line’s fleet.

To learn more on the Carnival Breeze Click here to go to our sister site Nick's Cruise Corner Blog.

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Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Celebrity Cruises Solsticizing Nearing Completion

Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Century

Celebrity Cruises' Solsticizing of its Millennium class vessels is almost complete.

The effort started in 2010 when the Celebrity Constellation was the first vessel to undergo updating of amenities and modernization at Germany's Blohm + Voss Shipyard.

To learn more on the refurbishment and which ships have been upgraded Click here to go to our other blog -> Nick's Cruise Corner

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Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Paul Gauguin Cruises Refurbishment Plans for Tere Moana

Paul Gauguin Cruises Refurbishment Plans for Tere Moana are revealed. On December 29, 2012, the m/v Tere Moana sets out on her maiden voyage under the Paul Gauguin Cruises banner, following a multi-faceted renovation that brings her up to our high standards for luxury and comfort. But you don't have to wait until December to see what you'll enjoy aboard this exceptional ship!

To see artists renditions of the refurbishment and to learn more, Click here to go to out sister site -> Nick's Cruise Corner Blog.

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Monday, July 9, 2012

Cunard's Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria Meet In Flaam Norway

Cunard Logo - Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria Meet in Flaam Norway

Cunard's Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria meet in Flaam Norway. The these two great Cunarders meet and give locals a great view.

To read more on the Queen's rendezvous and see a photo please - chick here to go to our sister site -> Nick's Cruise Corner.

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Friday, July 6, 2012

Pacific Sun to Leave P and O Australia Fleet This Month

P&O Cruises Australia's- Pacific Sun To Leave Fleet This Month

P&O Cruises Australia’ Pacific Sun is on its final voyage from Brisbane. The ship has been sold to undisclosed buyers. The 47,000gt ship is being sold as part of P&O Cruises Australia’s continuing fleet renewal.

Since 2004, Pacific Sun has carried more than half a million Australian passengers for P&O Cruises Australia.

The Pacific Sun was originally built in 1986, as Carnival Cruise Lines’ Jubilee. The Pacific Sun was one of the first ships added to the brand and helped build the Australian fleet to 7.

Pacific Sun sailed on Sunday for a South Pacific voyage that will end in Brisbane July 8.

The Pacific Sun will remain in Brisbane while the final P&O Cruises Australia possessions are removed. She is expected to depart Brisbane on July 11 for an unidentified destination.
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Thursday, July 5, 2012

P&O Cruises celebrates 175 years of heritage in spectacular style with Royal fleet review

PandO Cruises - Adonia, Arcadia, Aurora, Azura, Oceana, Oriana, and Ventura Rendezous in Southampton

Southampton, July 4^th 2012: P&O Cruises yesterday celebrated 175 years of heritage with a ‘Grand Event’ in its home port of Southampton. The company’s seven ships were welcomed into port by ship’s Godmother Darcey Bussell for a day of celebrations. HRH Princess Royal later conducted a Royal Fleet Review as the ships departed in formation in the Solent, after a spectacular ‘flutterfetti’ and firework evening send-off.

The seven ships – Adonia, Arcadia, Aurora, Azura, Oceana, Oriana, and Ventura – with a combined gross tonnage of 569,000 tonnes, arrived into Southampton at dawn, marking the first-ever occasion all seven P&O Cruises ships have gathered together in their home port.

On the aft deck of Azura, Darcey Bussell, who named the ship in 2010, was photographed with seven ship’s officers including the master of the ship, Captain Keith Dowds, and the commodore of the fleet, Steve Burgoine.
HRH The Princess Royal was greeted on the quayside and presented with a posy of flowers by Captain Ian Hutley's daughter, 12 year old Georgia. Later, HRH The Princess Royal was greeted by the seven ship’s captains in a special ceremony. Her Royal Highness, godmother to two P&O Cruises ships, enjoyed a VIP reception on board Oriana, with P&O Cruises consultant chefs Marco Pierre White and Atul Kochhar and wine expert Olly Smith in attendance, as well as a special cake baked by celebrity patissier Eric Lanlard.

With 2,600 bottles of champagne and 1,750 whole lobster loaded on board, passengers enjoyed deck parties as the ships sailed away.

Once in formation, the ships were reviewed by HRH The Princess Royal, who was on board the Trinity House vessel Patricia. HRH The Princess Royal was escorted by the Royal Navy’s newest Type 45 destroyer, HMS Dragon.

After taking the Royal salute the seven ships went on their separate ways on seven anniversary cruises around the world, including the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Scandinavia and the Canary Islands.

In a complex logistical operation, 15,000 passengers disembarked and 15,000 new passengers embarked throughout the ‘Grand Event’ day. An estimated 30,000 spectators gathered at vantage points around Southampton Water to watch the departure of the ships. The whole event brought £17 million to the local Southampton economy.

P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said: “Our ‘Grand Event’ celebrations were a truly impressive spectacle, and we were honoured to be joined by HRH The Princess Royal, godmother to two of our ships, to carry out our Royal Review. During our 175 years of heritage, the ships and crew have been at the cutting edge of maritime and cruising innovation, served with distinction as troop carriers in several wars, and, most importantly, offered our passengers a superb cruising experience year in and year out.

“We were delighted to see so many people lining the shore to witness our historical event – in spite of rather grey weather! The whole day was a fantastic celebration of the past and present, looking forward to the future of Britain’s best-known and best-loved cruise line.”

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Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Holland America Adds 3 More Segment to 2012 Grand Asia and Australia Cruises

Amsterdam - Holland America Line - Asia and Australia Cruises

Holland America Line has added three new segments to ms Amsterdam’s 75-day Grand Asia & Australia Voyage in fall 2012. Ranging from 20 to 30 days, the new segments set sail in October and November and span from China to California.

The full voyage departs Seattle, Wash., Sept. 21 and explores the wonders of Asia, Western Australia and the South Pacific on a 75-day cruise. The new segments still offer comprehensive and intriguing voyages, just shorter. Guests on any of these new segments will enjoy overnight calls, late departures and plenty of time to discover this magical part of the world.

“These segments are a great option for travelers who want an exotic cruise but don’t have the time to take the full voyage,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We already have several segments to choose from on this Grand Voyage, but the three new additions allow us to cater to our travelers with endless possibilities in terms of which countries they want to see in a shorter period of time.”

The first new segment is a 30-day voyage from Xingang (Beijing), China, to Sydney, Australia, departing Oct. 12, 2012. Guests begin their voyage with an overnight call in Beijing where they can visit historic sites such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Great Wall and National Stadium/"Bird's Nest" from the 2008 Olympics. Three additional overnights in Shanghai, Hong Kong, China, and Singapore, provide guests with an in-depth experience and allow for time to take a tour, visit the sites, go shopping and indulge in local cuisine.

Additional highlights on this segment include calls in Vietnam, three ports in Indonesia —including Semarang with the impressive Borobudur Temple and Komodo Island, home to the infamous Komodo dragon — a call in Papua New Guinea and three calls in Australia.

Fares for the 30-day segment from Xingang (Beijing) to Sydney begin at $4,499 per person, double occupancy.
The new 20-day segment from Hong Kong to Brisbane, Australia, embarks Oct. 20 and departs Oct. 21 following an overnight alongside in the bustling Chinese city. This segment also calls in Vietnam, Semarang and Komodo, Indonesia, with an overnight in Singapore. Following calls in Darwin, Australia, and Papua New Guinea, the voyage concludes in Brisbane.

Fares for the 20-day segment from Hong Kong to Brisbane begin at $2,999 per person, double occupancy.

Guests looking to combine exciting port calls throughout Eastern Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific with leisurely days at sea can embark on the new 27-day segment sailing from Brisbane to San Diego on Nov. 9, 2012. In addition to Eden, Australia, guests will have an overnight call in Sydney where they can visit the famed Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or go in search of a cuddly koala.

New Zealand is the ship’s next destination, with calls in Waitangi (Bay of Islands) and Auckland, the City of Sails. Amsterdam continues to sail across the Pacific Ocean with calls in Lautoka, Fiji; Apia, Samoa Island, and three ports in the Hawaiian Islands before arriving in San Diego. Guests will achieve two cruising milestones while on this segment: crossing the international dateline and crossing the equator.

Fares for the 27-day segment from Brisbane to San Diego begin at $4,199 per person, double occupancy.

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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

MSC Cruises Offers Discount on Select Holiday Cruises

MSC Cruises' MSC Poesia Holiday Sailings Discounts

Celebrate the holidays surrounded by Caribbean sunshine and the warmth of Mediterranean ambiance with a complimentary balcony upgrade from MSC Cruises on holiday sailings of the luxurious MSC Poesia.

Special “Holidays On Sale” rates offer guests complimentary upgrades from oceanview to balcony staterooms or from balcony standard to balcony superior staterooms. The cruise-only rates, available for bookings made by July 31, 2012, start at $699 (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional for all guests) for select 7-night cruises and $629 on a select 5-night cruise.

Plus, kids traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom sail for only $99.

While spending the holidays onboard a Caribbean MSC Poesia sailing, guests will enjoy a truly international experience that draws upon MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage, complete with the exotic MSC Aurea Spa, Mediterranean cuisine, and world-class entertainment that is appropriate for the entire family.

Adults can relax knowing that, while they are working out in the gym, being pampered in the spa or swimming on deck, the youngsters are enjoying themselves, too, participating in activities and facilities designed especially for them under the watchful eye of trained counselors.

“Holidays on Sale” rates are available on the following itineraries of MSC Poesia, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale:

Christmas Cruise: departs Dec. 21, 2012, calling at Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Roatan Islands Honduras. Balcony staterooms from $809.

New Year’s Cruise: departs Dec. 28, 2012, calling at St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Freeport, Bahamas. Balcony staterooms from $909.

Presidents Day: departs Feb. 16, 2013, calling at Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $699.

5-night Passover Cruise: departs March 25, 2013, calling at Georgetown, Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $629.

Easter Cruise: departs March 30, 2013, calling a Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Falmouth, Jamaica, Balcony staterooms from $699.

Be certain to ask for the “Holidays on Sale” promo.

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Monday, July 2, 2012

Great American Steamboat Company Announces 2013 Cruises And Name Change

American Queen - American Queen Steamboat Company

The Great American Steamboat Company is pleased to announce the 2013 schedule for the reigning queen of the Mississippi river, the grand American Queen. These fabled river voyages on the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee Rivers for the 2013 season will go on sale Friday, June 22, 2012. Once again, travelers will enjoy this truly American experience, celebrated by Mark Twain and others, of steamboat voyages on the great rivers of the America’s heartland. With convenient departures from some of the United States’ most storied cities such as Memphis, New Orleans, St. Louis, St. Paul, Cincinnati, Chattanooga, and Pittsburgh, planning a steamboat vacation on the American Queen has never been easier.

2013 Voyage Highlights

· A total of 30 departures from Memphis and New Orleans, showcasing the fabled Lower Mississippi’s fabled plantations, civil war battlefields, history and Southern culture

· Five special departures featuring Natchez’s Spring Pilgrimage Pageant

· “Blue Hawaii”, an Elvis Tribute

· New themes – Blues & Barbeque, Louisiana History & Culture, Mystical Krewe of Steamboating Mardi Gras^SM, Dixie Fest, Southern Spirits, Gardens of the River, In the Good Old Summertime^SM, Baseball Legends, Manifest Destiny, The Great Steamboat Era and the first annual Delta Queen Steamboat Company and Paddlewheel Steamboat Society Of America™ Reunion voyages

· Epic Civil War voyage between Memphis and Chattanooga

· More accommodations for single travelers including new Single Outside Staterooms

· Red, White and Blue Pricing – offering greater value for travelers

· The most inclusive river cruise product in North America – every steamboat holiday includes a free one night deluxe hotel stay in the city of embarkation, all shore tours on our trademark Steamcoahes^SM in all ports, complimentary wine and beer with dinner and a host of other amenities

· Fares start at an amazingly affordable $1,095 per guest

Befitting a company that celebrates the American experience, the American Queen employs an affable, all-American crew that is eager to please. Few things are nicer than mint juleps on deck on a glorious summer afternoon on the Ohio River or morning coffee in the grand J.M. White Dining Room as you steam into St. Paul. With a homeport of Memphis, the American Queen carries with her the same devotion to exceptional dining and entertainment, including Dixieland Jazz and gracious southern charm and hospitality. Inspired by the greatest steamboats of the 19^th Century, the American Queen offers an opulent two-level Grand Saloon, an elegant two-deck high Dining Room, staterooms and suites appointed with period furnishings and antique touches, many with their own private veranda and all with the modern amenities today’s travelers expect. Most notably, the American Queen carries only 436 guests, surrounding them in an atmosphere befitting a fine antebellum mansion complete with rich paneling, priceless antiques, Tiffany glass and public rooms that are warm and welcoming.

As a tribute to this historic steamboat and following in the footsteps of its fabled predecessor, the company is being renamed in honor of its iconic flagship. Effective July 1, the company will be renamed the American Queen Steamboat Company.

“Just as the Greene family renamed their operation to honor the historic Delta Queen, we are embracing the legacy of the American Queen and renaming the Company in honor of her. Because of her iconic status, she has quickly become the brand in the eyes of our guests and travel agent partners,” stated Jeffrey D. Krida, the company’s chief executive officer.

A variety of voyage lengths, ranging from four nights to twelve nights, and fares beginning at $1,095 per guest, offers exceptional value and convenience, with little or no flying required.

For additional information and reservations, kindly contact the Great American Steamboat Company.

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Sunday, July 1, 2012

MSC Cruises Offers Cruise Holiday Cruise Discounts

MSC Cruises - MSC Poesia Holiday Cruises Discounts