Costa Voyager Replaces Costa Allegra

The Costa Voyager was expected to sail Red Sea Cruise throughout the winter and spring season - but this was not meant to be. All the remaining Costa Voyager Red Sea Cruises have been cancelled and guest will be offered an equivalent cruise according to a statement made by Costa.

The Costa Voyager will assume the cruises originally anticipated for the Costa Allegra which was damaged by a fire off the coast of Africa.

Costa Voyager will take over the Northern Europe and Mediterranean itineraries originally planned for Costa Allegra starting today (March 18) thru the end of the summer. The Costa Allegra was to operate the spring, summer and fall under a charter to a French Tour Company. The charter has now been assumed by the Costa Voyager.

Costa Allegra will not be returned to service and is for sale.

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Carnival Cruises Carnival Miracle Offers Year-Round Sailings From New York Starting April 2012

Carnival Cruise Line to Offer Year-round Cruises from New York to the Bahamas and the Caribbean starting April 2012. For More Info - Click here -> http://www.nycruiseinfo.com/News_Article/11-06-15-Carnival-Miracle-Sails-From-NY-Year-Round.htm

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TUI Cruises Names New Ship "Mein Schiff"

May 15, 2009 -- Mein Schiff (My Ship), the first ship in the new TUI Cruises fleet, was named today in Hamburg, Germany, in a celebration that marked a significant step for the joint venture between Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd and TUI AG.

The new brand is designed to serve the Germany cruise market, where some 906,000 Germans took cruises in 2008, and where that number is forecast to increase by 11 percent in 2009.
Following a short inaugural cruise, Mein Schiff will sail in the Baltic for the 2009 summer season (May through October). It will offer two- to 14-nights sailings from ports such as Kiel and Hamburg, Germany, and Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The ship then will reposition to the Caribbean for winter (November 2009 through April 2010), home-porting in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

During 2010 and 2011, Mein Schiff also will sail itineraries in the Nordic Seas, reaching the far coasts of the Faroe Islands and Iceland, as well as the eastern and western Mediterranean, passing through the Strait of Gibraltar to visit the Canary Islands and Morocco.

“We are honoured to welcome Mein Schiff as a new benchmark in the European cruise market,” said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, International, for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "The launching of TUI Cruises’ first ship is a significant milestone in the relationship between Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd and TUI AG. We have an outstanding partnership in TUI Cruises, which will provide extraordinary holidays for its German guests. We look forward to helping the new brand grow and prosper.”

“The naming of our first ship and her first sailing for us are significant achievements for our new brand,” said Richard J. Vogal, chief executive officer of TUI Cruises. “This is a great day in the history of German cruising and it highlights our outstanding partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Together, we’ve done an excellent job rejuvenating Mein Schiff in just 38 days, and the results are stunning. We look forward to providing an entirely new level of service and enjoyment to our guests.”

The 1,914-guest Mein Schiff was formerly Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Galaxy. The ship left the Celebrity fleet on March 16, 2009, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Her transformation began during her crossing from the Caribbean to Europe and was completed in 38 days. The ship is now tailored to German guests, their tastes in food, entertainment and amenities, and it will provide a contemporary/premium cruise experience.

“TUI Cruises is another strategic step in our efforts to meet the growing international demand for cruising,” said Bayley. “It will provide more options to German cruisers and assist in growing that market. In 2009, our five wholly owned brands will have an unprecedented 22 ships deployed in Europe. When combined with TUI Cruises, this provides more choices than ever before to the European cruise market."

A national naming contest attracted over 30,000 suggestions for the name of TUI Cruises’ new ship. Mein Schiff (or My Ship, in English) was the overwhelming winner.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and TUI AG announced their intentions to form TUI Cruises on December 10, 2007. Each company holds a 50 percent interest in the joint venture.

Norwegian Spirit Kicks Off Boston Cruise Season

May 1, 2009- The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) announced today that a new ship is calling Boston its home. The 2009 cruise season officially starts today, with Norwegian Spirit beginning her series of 21 weekly cruises from Boston to Bermuda. The ship is one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) newer and larger vessels. Norwegian Spirit departs weekly to Bermuda on Fridays through September 18, and will also sail a series of four seven-day Canada/New England cruises beginning September 25.

“We are thrilled to have Norwegian Spirit kick off our 2009 cruise season. The new weekly departure on Fridays lets passengers enjoy an un-interrupted weekend aboard the ship,” said Mike Leone, Massport’s Port Director. “Overall, we look forward to this year’s cruise season bringing two new trans-Atlantic voyages, two Caribbean cruises, and several new ship visits to the Port of Boston.”

NCL is known for its Freestyle Cruising® which gives guests the flexibility and freedom to create their own schedules onboard. Norwegian Spirit recently underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment which improves the guest experience. The 2,018-passenger ship boasts more than 600 ocean view staterooms – more than half with private balconies, eleven restaurants, seven bars and lounges, two pools, extensive children's facilities, a sports deck, casino, and spa.
“Norwegian Spirit offers vacationers a wide range of choices in terms of accommodations, restaurants and amenities,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Chief Executive Officer. “Cruising represents an incredible value and we hope that many New Englanders will take advantage of this value and convenience by sailing with us from Boston this summer.”

Two more ships are based in Boston: Holland America’s Maasdam sails every other week to Montreal, and features the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine. The center is a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen for gourmet presentations, tasting events, and cooking classes. Later in the season, Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas cruises from Boston to ports in Canada and New England. Some of her amenities include a rock-climbing wall, indoor/outdoor country club with a golf simulator, and an indoor solarium.

Other highlights in 2009 include trans-Atlantic voyages from Boston. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 will depart Boston on July 4th for an eight-day crossing to Southampton, England. Also in July, Maasdam offers a 17 and 35-day “Voyage of the Vikings” cruise, and a 42-day “Voyage of the Vikings & Canada New England” trans-Atlantic cruise. In September, Cruiseport Boston will welcome Cunard’s newest ocean liner Queen Victoria, when she makes her maiden call to Boston. And in October there will be Caribbean repositioning cruises on both Norwegian Spirit and Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas.

This year Cruiseport Boston anticipates 104 ships and more than 250,000 passengers.

Mariner of the Seas Offer 7 Day West Coast - Canada Cruises.

May 1, 2009 – Vacationers can take advantage of recent itinerary changes to enjoy a unique vacation that combines the captivating Pacific Coast with Royal Caribbean International’s Mariner of the Seas, the largest and most innovative cruise ship in the Pacific Ocean. Six new sailings, departing May 3, 10, 24, and 31, and June 7 and 14, 2009, will take guests on seven-night roundtrip itineraries from Los Angeles and feature ports of call in San Francisco, Seattle, and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Cruise fares start as low as $399 per person, double occupancy, and booking is available immediately.

Royal Caribbean also offers a wide array of shore excursion add-ons available for purchase to complement days in port. In San Francisco, for example, guests can choose Sausalito & Muir Woods, which will take them across the Golden Gate Bridge to visit Muir Woods and witness giant redwood trees rising more than 250 feet; or explore the surround waters in Victoria for whales, seals, porpoises and other wildlife on Whale Watching; or opt for an insiders’ tour of the famed Pike Place Market in Seattle on Taste Pike Place.

Mariner of the Seas features the most diversions on a cruise ship on the West Coast, catering to active travelers and multi-generational family vacations. On the May 10 sailing, Mariner of the Seas will substitute the San Francisco port of call with Astoria, Oregon.

Mariner of the Seas features the cruise line’s exclusive amenities, including the Studio B ice-skating rink with real ice; full-size basketball and sports court; the cruise line’s iconic rock-climbing wall; and the Royal Promenade, an interior boulevard of boutiques, restaurants, and bars and lounges that runs nearly the length of the ship. Mariner of the Seas also offers a nine-hole miniature golf course, interactive golf simulator, the full-service Mariner Day Spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The ship’s three pools include a 25,000-sq. ft. pool deck, which was transformed by pop-art-sensation Romero Britto into an outdoor art exhibit replete with whimsical figures and playful patterns. This one-of-a-kind pool deck also features a side gallery chronicling this project from initial inspiration to final construction.

In the evening, guests can enjoy 16 bars and themed lounges and seven restaurants, including a 1950s-style Johnny Rockets Diner and Royal Caribbean’s signature specialty restaurants, Chops Grille steakhouse and Portofino Italian restaurant. Guests also can enjoy a myriad of entertainment options from top-rated Broadway-style productions in the Savoy Theatre to world-class gaming in the Casino Royale.

For younger guests, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program offers scheduled activities throughout the day that enriches and entertains kids. Teens have their own dedicated onboard areas such as Fuel, the teen disco; The Living Room, a place where they can relax and hang out with their friends; and The Back Deck, an outdoor lounge.

Throughout, all guests will experience the line’s hallmark Gold Anchor Service, making each guest vacation a unique and unforgettable experience with friendly and engaging service from the staff and crew.

Carnival Pride Begin Year-Round Sailings From Baltimore.

(April 27, 2009) – Later today, Carnival Cruise Lines and the Port of Baltimore will launch the city’s first year-round cruise schedule when the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride sails on its inaugural departure from Baltimore.

The Carnival Pride arrived this morning at the South Locust Point Cruise Terminal, accompanied by, appropriately enough, The Pride of Baltimore, an authentic reproduction of a 19th century clipper topsail schooner. Following the Carnival Pride’s arrival, a special invitation-only reception was held on board the vessel and attended by port and community officials, dignitaries and VIPs.

Today’s voyage of the Carnival Pride marks the first of 50 voyages annually aboard the 88,500-ton “Fun Ship,” which is expected to carry 115,000 passengers a year from Baltimore. The Port of Baltimore estimates that with the addition of the Carnival Pride, the cruise industry will provide an annual economic impact of $152 million and generate 1,550 jobs within the state.

With the new year-round service from Baltimore, Carnival now sails from 19 North American departure points - the most in cruising - providing consumers with easy and affordable access to a wide variety of embarkation ports throughout the U.S.

“Baltimore is an excellent addition to our North American homeport offerings as it is in close proximity to millions of consumers who now have the opportunity to embark on a ‘Fun Ship’ cruise right from their own backyards,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. “And the Carnival Pride is a truly spectacular ‘Fun Ship,’ offering a host of exciting facilities and features, along with a variety of appealing itinerary options, to create wonderful vacation memories for our guests,” he added.

“The State of Maryland welcomes the Carnival Pride and the beginning of year-round cruising to the Port of Baltimore,” said Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. “Now, tens of millions of people that live within a short drive of Baltimore can cruise anytime of the year they wish. The Cruise Maryland terminal’s unique location off Interstate 95 makes it easy for passengers to arrive and park on site,” he added.

Carnival Pride’s New Baltimore-Based Cruises Carnival Pride will operate a series of six-, seven- and eight-day cruises from Baltimore through Aug. 29, 2009. These cruises will visit a wide variety of ports, including Nassau, Freeport, Half Moon Cay (a private Bahamian island), Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Grand Turk in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Carnival Pride will then feature a year-round seven-day schedule starting Sept. 6, 2009, with cruises departing every Sunday. Two different itineraries will be offered including an Exotic Eastern Caribbean itinerary calling at Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, and Freeport; and a weeklong Bahamas/Florida route featuring Port Canaveral (near Orlando’s many attractions), Nassau and Freeport.

Signature ‘Fun Ship’ Amenities

The 960-foot-long Carnival Pride offers a host of resort-style amenities and facilities: four swimming pools – one with a cascading water slide - a wedding chapel and an upscale supper club located at the top of a glass-enclosed atrium, just one of several dining venues on board. Sixteen lounges and bars, including a sports bar, wine bar, piano bar and a 1,200-seat theatre showcasing lavish revues, are also featured. These facilities are accessible by a promenade running the length of the ship. Other features include a 14,500-square-foot spa, a jogging track, ship-wide Wi-Fi access and cell phone service.

Carnival Pride also appeals to families by offering expansive facilities and organized activities for children in three age groups - Camp Carnival for 2- to 11-year-olds, Circle “C” for 12- to 14-year-olds, and Club O2 for 15- to 17-year- olds.

The ship offers a wide variety of spacious accommodations and features the exclusive Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows. This includes approximately 700 staterooms and suites which have a private balcony -- a very popular option for enjoying the beautiful ocean vistas.

Reservations

Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Pride’s new departures from Baltimore. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, along with round-trip air supplements from a variety of North American gateways are also available.

Premium Cruise Line Azamara Cruise Announces Caribbean, Panama Canal and Sea of Cortez Cruises

April 7, 2009 – Travelers with easy access to Miami and San Diego and a desire to explore unique destinations in relaxed, luxurious style will delight in Azamara Cruises' 2010-11 winter offerings on Azamara Journey. The 694-guest ship, which features Azamara butler service in every stateroom, complimentary specialty dining, a laid-back, no-formal-nights elegance, and a variety of available in-depth shore excursions, will sail a variety of first-time-ever Sea of Cortez voyages as well as its popular Caribbean and Panama Canal cruises, between November 2010 and April 2011. The cruises in Azamara Journey’s 2010-11 winter season features visits to 23 ports in 13 different countries during her 2010-11 winter season; Azamara opened these cruises for sale today.

Not only are Miami and San Diego easily accessible drive-market ports for travelers living within easy reach, they are also attractive tourist destinations for out-of-town visitors.

Azamara Journey’s 2010-11 Caribbean season will begin earlier than it will at the end of 2009, making the crossing from Europe on November 15, 2010. Upon arriving in Miami, Azamara Journey will sail several 12-night Caribbean itineraries roundtrip out of Miami, visiting ports such as St. John and St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; Marigot, Saint Martin; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Pointe A Pitre, Guadeloupe; Gustavia, St. Barts; and Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands; Castries, St. Lucia; and Roseau, Dominica. The ship will also offer 12-night Caribbean voyages between February and April of 2011.

Numerous available shore excursions make the Azamara Caribbean experience especially memorable. During “Historical Plantation Ruins of St. John,” guests have the opportunity to experience the unspoiled natural beauty of the Virgin Islands National Park through an exclusive historical and cultural island tour conducted by a leading local expert in Virgin Islands history. “Caribbean Scenic Rail and Brimstone Hill” in St. Kitts give guests the chance to experience a unique rail/highway excursion that circles the entire island and visits the “Gibraltar of the West Indies” at Brimstone Hill Fortress.

Azamara will offer two 16-night Panama Canal voyages, sailing from Miami to San Diego on December 23, 2010 and from San Diego to Miami on January 30, 2011, include stops at numerous culture-rich central American destinations rife with tropical foliage and other breathtaking scenery. These include Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua; and Huatulco, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Throughout these cruises, optional shore excursions such as “Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary and Mangrove Boat Tour” in Puntarenas can enhance the in-port experience. During this excursion, guests visit the bird sanctuary and learn about scarlet macaws, one of the most endangered species in the American tropics.

The Panama Canal sailings will bookend two “Sea of Cortez” cruises roundtrip out of San Diego, marking the first time that Azamara Cruises or its sister lines Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International have sailed such itineraries. Taking place on January 8 and 19, the two 11-night voyages will visit five ports new to Azamara: Mazatlán, Topolobampo, Loreto, Guaymas and La Paz, Mexico, in addition to the previously visited Cabo San Lucas.

The new ports offer travelers the opportunity to experience lesser-known areas in Mexico. Topolobampo, a beachfront town overlooking one of the largest bays in the Americas, is close to the Copper Canyon, Farrallon Island and Mayo tribe villages. Loreto, located on the northern tip of the Baja California Sur state, was the first Spanish settlement in the California peninsula, and is located near the Sierra la Gigante Bahia de Loreto Marine Park, the Our Lady of Loreto Mission and several beaches. La Paz, Baja California Sur’s capital, features several natural and historical attractions such as beaches, churches, museums, whale watching, fishing and water sports. La Paz is close to Los Islotes in the Pichilinque Bay, where guests can see the area’s large sea lion population. Mazatlán, located among Mexico’s Sierra Madre mountain range along the Golden Coast, has been a major seaport since the 800s, and today, is a popular tourist destination for locals and international visitors alike. Guaymas, one of the oldest and largest seaports on Mexico’s Pacific coast, was founded in 1701 by Jesuit missionaries. Cruise tourism is new to Guaymas, as its first cruise ship visit occurred in 2008; this untouched gem is an ideal complement to Azamara’s exotic-destination-focused itineraries.

Shore excursions available in the new ports include “Copper Canyon by Train” in Topolobampo, during which guests will enjoy a rugged, full-day adventure that includes an early-morning motorcoach ride and a privately chartered train ride through the Sierra Madres on the Chihuahua Pacifico railway before arrival at the Copper Canyon, which is accessible only by train. Winding through tunnels and bridges, guests will be transported from sea level to 7,200 feet before enjoying lunch, stunning vistas and a leisurely journey back to the ship. In La Paz, “Snorkeling with the Sea Lions” offers a taste of the region’s popular eco-tourism offerings. The Sea of Cortez is home to marine creatures including sea lions, whales, dolphins, Cortez angel fish and parrot fish, and this excursion offers multiple photo opportunities. The highlight of the excursion is a boat ride to the Los Islotes sea lion colony, and the snorkeling and swimming with sea lions that follow.

Click Here to read a review on the Azamara Journey

Luxury Operator Crystal Cruises Offers Cruise Discounts

April 7, 2009 – To celebrate its 20 years as a leader in luxury cruising, Crystal Cruises is launching its 2010 fares with its most dramatic and compelling promotional savings ever. Crystal’s gifts to guests offer special anniversary pricing in advance of the vacation, spending credits during the cruise, and birthday programs for big savings in the future.

Guests sailing in 2010 will enjoy:

• “All Inclusive – As You Wish” shipboard credits on every individual voyage in 2010. Most cruises offer $2,000 per couple, all the way up to $10,000 per couple for the full World Cruise;


• 20th Anniversary Fares with up to $3,000 per couple savings on all Mediterranean and Northern Europe voyages booked by December 31, 2009 ;


• Birthday Bonus! Book your 2010 birthday cruise by December 31, 2009 and save 50% on a future Crystal cruise taken before your next birthday;


• 20th Anniversary events and activities on every 2010 cruise;


• Exclusive events added to four special sailings: the 20th Anniversary President’s cruise,the Crystal Society (repeat guest) Reunion cruise, and the cruises aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity that occur during July 20, 2010, which commemorates the anniversary of Crystal’s first ship christening.


• Crystal Family Memories program offers a free cruise incentive to celebrate one’s own anniversary, birthday or reunion with friends and family.


• Value Collection Fares, Crystal Society Savings and Early Full Payment Savings!

“The sheer amount of fares savings, plus the scope of applicable voyages – even during prime seasons – plus a spending credit on every sailing, makes this the most significant collection of savings we’ve ever offered,” says Gregg Michel, Crystal’s president.

“Our All Inclusive – As You Wish spending credit on every cruise is the ultimate luxury anniversary gift– to have what you want, when you want. Our guests have the freedom to choose whatever is meaningful to them, from soothing spa treatments to boutique shore excursions to rare wine vintages.”Sailing to 174 ports in 70 countries on 62 voyages, Crystal Cruises’ 2010 program will feature a continued emphasis on distinctive destinations and port intensive itineraries including many overnight calls.

New offerings include maiden calls in Iran, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia on the World Cruise to new North American cruises to the Sea of Cortez and Hawaii.

While most voyages are 11-13 days in length, Crystal has set 15 cruises at 10 days or fewer. Several combination cruises sail from 15 to 115 days without ever repeating a port.

Crystal’s 2010 cruise fares begin at $2,165 per person, double occupancy.

MSC Cruises Offers European Balcony Discounts

(APRIL 8, 2009) - Now is the ideal time to book a European vacation with MSC Cruises to enjoy a balcony stateroom and take advantage of savings of up to 60 percent on balcony staterooms and the line’s kids 17 and younger sail free program.

“Balcony Blowout” rates begin at $999 per person for a balcony stateroom on a 7-night cruise to some of Europe's most exotic locales and on two of the world’s newest ships, The special rates are available for new bookings made by April 30, 2009 while space lasts on select 7-night sailings of:·

• MSC Poesia: Eastern Mediterranean (Greece, Turkey and Croatia) roundtrip from Venice or Bari· MSC Orchestra: Baltic (Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Estonia, Russia) or Norwegian Fjords (Denmark, Germany, Norway) roundtrip from Copenhagen; Western Mediterranean (Italy, Spain, Portugal) roundtrip from Barcelona or Genoa·


• MSC Splendida (which debuts in July 2009): Western Mediterranean (Spain, Tunisia, Malta, Italy, France) roundtrip from Barcelona, Genoa, Civitavecchia, or Marseille·


• MSC Fantasia (which debuted in December 2008): Western Mediterranean (Italy, Tunisia, Spain, France) roundtrip from Genoa, Barcelona, Naples or Marseille·


• MSC Musica: Eastern Mediterranean (Greece and Croatia) roundtrip from Venice or Bari MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida are the largest ships ever ordered by a European ship owner.

In addition to elegant décor, international cuisine as well as regional Italian specialties and an alternative restaurant, European-style entertainment, and a spacious spa, they introduce a new concept in VIP cruising – MSC Yacht Club, complete with butler service. Cruise-only rates begin at $999 per person for a balcony, based on double occupancy (government fees and taxes for all guests are additional) and cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

Children ages 17 and younger sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults.

Swan Hellenic Introduces US Website

(Apr. 9, 2009)—Small-ship cruising specialist Swan Hellenic has launched a North American website, http://www.swanhellenic.us/, featuring exclusive promotions for the U.S. and Canadian market, complete details on the line’s ocean and river programs and pricing in US dollars.

Swan Hellenic, reborn in May 2008, features culturally enriching cruise programs aboard the 394-guest Minerva and the 199-guest A-Rosa Riva. Fares include shipboard gratuities and shore excursions in each port of call.

Savings up to 70% are available on selected departures and categories. Rates start at $1,995 per person, double occupancy, on the 14-night Eastern Mediterranean & Black Sea, May 12-26 itinerary. Air departure from North America on May 11, 2009.

Sailing from Piraeus (Athens) to Istanbul, the Minerva calls at Reythymno, Crete; Delos and Tinos, Greece; Dikili and Canakkale, Turkey; Nessebur, Bulgaria; Odessa (overnight), Sevastopol and Yalta, Ukraine, and includes an overnight on board in Piraeus and Istanbul. Oceanview cabins are priced at $3,195 per person.

The May 26-June 10 Grecian Odyssey cruise features an overnight in Istanbul and includes Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey; Santorini, Nauplia, Katakolon and Gythion, Greece; and Catania, Lipari, Sorrento, and Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy. Guests disembark after an overnight in Livorno on June 10. Fares for the 15-night cruise start at $1,995 per person; oceanview, $3,195. North American air departure is May 25.

The 16-night June 9, 2009, Journey from the Mediterranean begins in Livorno after an overnight on board and departs for Elba, Italy; Ajaccio, France; Mahón, and Mortil, Spain; Gibraltar; Seville (overnight); Leixóes, Portugal; La Coruna, Spain; Alderney, Channel Islands; and ends in Dover, England. Fares for minimum inside accommodations are $1,795 per person; oceanview, $2,795.

Air add-ons and transfers are available from 21 US and Canadian gateway cities from $1,107 to $1,627 per person.

Substantial savings also are available on selected voyages of Swan Hellenic’s Danube river cruises. Fares for the 10-night cruises aboard the A-Rosa Riva are priced at $2,195 per-person (river view) and $2,595 (balcony).

The cruises sail round-trip from Vienna May 10 and 30, 2009, with calls at Esztergom, Budapest, Bratislava, Duernstein, Melk, Linz (Salzburg) and Passau (Munich). Air add-ons are available from $205 to $655 depending on cruise and gateway. North American air departure – May 9 and May 29. Cruise-only guests may deduct $400 from the cruise fare.

Swan Hellenic successfully relaunched in May 2008. Each cruise itinerary is a unique cultural travel experience, blending world-class sites with smaller, off the beaten track destinations. A program of tailor-made shore excursions is included in the cruise fare, with excursions accompanied by experienced Swan Hellenic staff. Both vessels feature open-seating dining.
To book or to request a brochure, contact your travel professional or Swan Hellenic at (866) 923 9182 or visit http://www.swanhellenic.us/

Swan Hellenic is a trading division of UK-based All Leisure Group, which also operates Voyages of Discovery cruise line and tour operator Discover Egypt.

Millions of Brochures Published Describing MSC Cruises 2009/10 Itineraries

MSC Cruises just announced the deployment of their 11 ships for 2009-2010. Highlights include the introduction of the MSC Splendida arriving in July 2009 and the MSC Magnifica in March 2010.

MSC Cruises will be offer 136 different itineraries including new New England/Canada Cruises from NY, cruises from Brazil, in additional to an extensive European deployment.

The new brochure has just been released covering these cruises. In total MSC Cruises publishes 2 million brochures annually, in various languages and some with destination specific.

German Operator Peter Deilmann Cruises Offers Fall Cruises From Baltimore

New York, March 2009 – Peter Deilmann Cruises is bringing deluxe cruising to Baltimore with the announcement of two distinct Fall itineraries, aboard its luxury flagship MS Deutschland, and offering special fare savings of up to 32% with $99 air and complimentary excursions. The 520-guest floating grand hotel offers guests the elegant style of the Edwardian and 1920 eras and highly personalized service thanks to a guest-to-crew ratio of two-to-one when it departs Nov. 5 on a 12-night exploration of the southeast coast of the U.S and a longer 16-night cruise departing on Nov. 17 to the Gulf and Caribbean. A portfolio of savings opportunities is being offered with these departures: $1,500 per person discounts on all stateroom/suite categories; $99 economy roundtrip air fare from dozens of North American gateways or for those booking their own air, an additional $750 fare reduction; and a complimentary excursions package worth $600. The 12-night roundtrip cruise from Baltimore explores the 'old South,' stopping in Norfolk, Savannah, Charleston, Jacksonville, Key West, Miami and Port Canaveral, as well as Freeport in the Grand Bahamas. The 16-night sailing ends in Jamaica's Montego Bay after calling at Philadelphia, New York, Miami, New Orleans and Mexico's Progreso and Cozumel. Group bookings enjoy the same savings benefits, as well as one free tour conductor berth for every nine paid guests. The reduced fares are $3,943 to $14,034 per person, double for the 12-night sailing and $4,820 to $17,510 for 16 nights. Original fares ranged from $5,740 to $19,010.

The 12-night itinerary will take in the Southern hospitality of three southeast coastal cities: historic Savannah, brimming with Victorian homes, antebellum mansions and oak trees dripping in Spanish moss; Charleston, where travelers can tour the old city by horse-drawn carriage; and Norfolk, a primary 18th-century trading port, where guests can opt to visit Nauticus, The National Maritime Center that boasts superb oceanography exhibits, and, for history buffs, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the Douglas MacArthur Memorial. Four Florida ports collectively provide a rich view of the state’s offerings and include: the former homes of writer Ernest Hemmingway and President Harry Truman in laid-back Key West; an array of bars and restaurants at the Jacksonville Landing and Southbank Riverwalk in Jacksonsville; the very popular NASA Space Center in Port Canaveral; and the sizzling South Beach nightlife, magnificent beaches and museum offerings of multi-cultural Miami. Freeport offers sunbathers a near endless supply of deserted stretches of sun-drenched beaches – as well as terrific shopping opportunities at Port Lucaya Marketplace, with its picturesque waterfront, and at Count Basie Square with live entertainment.

The 16-night sailing showcases some of the very best in cosmopolitan ports of call -- New York, Philadelphia, New Orleans and Miami. In New York, guests can visit the Statute of Liberty, take a carriage ride in Central Park, or catch a Broadway show followed by dinner on Restaurant Row. Philadelphia, the nation's one-time capital, is brimming with early American landmarks, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and such cultural landmarks as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute Science Museum, while New Orleans offers the birthplace of Jazz, the sultry ambiance of the city’s French Quarter and its Bourbon Street. Two Mexican destinations add a Latin element with the Mayan town of Progreso, 30 minutes from the colonial city of Merida and the Mayan archaeological site of Dzibilchaltun, and Cozumel, where guests can enjoy Chankanaab National Park, a refuge for flora and marine fauna, or snorkel or dive the island's world-famous reefs.

The MS Deutschland, with 286 staterooms, provides travelers with a more intimate cruising experience. Features of the nine-deck ship include: three deluxe restaurants, an outdoor dining terrace plus seven diverse bars and cafes, a spacious library lounge, outdoor and indoor pools, three sun decks and an open-air promenade deck, grand ballroom for nightly entertainment and dancing, and a wellness center equipped with fitness and spa facilities. Smoking is not permitted onboard except in open deck areas, the Old Fritz Pub and one section of the Lili Marleen Bar.

Aranui 3 Offers Passenger Freighter Cruises in the Marquesas

The "Aranui 3" is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between Tahiti and the Marquesas.

She offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for about two hundred passengers. Passengers can sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui 3 sails her way among the islands of the Marquesas.

Accommodations classes are Suites, Deluxe, Standard and C Class. Standard C Class are shared accommodations. The ship offers comfortable accommodations, but passengers should not expect a standard cruise ship experience, the ship is a combination passenger ship and freighter, one should expect clean, comfortable accommodations, adequate friendly service, good local cooking and fewer entertainment options than larger ships.

The ship sails on 14 days adventure cruise in the French Polynesia, Marquesas islands. The journey begins at Tahiti to Fakarava, Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata, Ua Huka, Rangiroa and back to Papeete.

The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans.

"Aranui 3" is operated by Compagnie Polynesienne de Transport Maritime.

Fred Olsen to Retire Black Prince.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced it will retire its vessel Black Prince in October 2009. The 441 passenger ship, which was built for the company by Flender Werft in Lubeck in 1966, will operate a series of four Farewell Cruises starting on 9th September from Liverpool, and ending on 16th October in Southampton.When Black Prince entered service for Fred. Olsen Ltd on 19th October, 1966, it was in the role of a joint passenger/freight ferry operating between the UK and the Canary islands in the winter, and the UK and Norway in the summer.

The ship was converted to a full-time cruise ship in 1987 and from February that year became a key player in the cruising market in the UK.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines managing director Mike Rodwell said: “This is a very sad announcement for the company to make as Black Prince is one of the best loved ships that caters to the UK market, and many passengers have cruised on her so often that even they have lost track of the number of holidays they have taken. We know that there will be thousands of passengers who have sailed on her who will be very sad on that final day.”Black Prince’s Farewell Season will begin on 9th September 2009 with a ten night Around the UK cruise from Liverpool, then a three night mini cruise from Liverpool to Southampton.

The season continues with a 10 night Historic Home Ports cruise from Southampton back to Southampton; followed by her final cruise of 14 nights to the Canary Islands.

The ship returns to Southampton on Friday 16th October, 2009.Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines currently operates a fleet of five ships mostly from UK ports on worldwide itineraries.

Mano Marine Buys MSC Cruises MSC Rhapsody

Mano Marine has purchased MSC Cruises' MSC Rhapsody and will be renaming her "Golden Iris".

The "Golden Iris" entered service in 1977 as the Cunard Princess for Cunard Line. Built by Burmeister & Wein, she sailed for Cunard until 1995. This modest size ship, weighs 17,095 tons, measures 541 feet long, carries 812 passengers and has a crew of 370.

Since 1995 she has been operated by MSC cruises as the MSC Rhapsody. After completing her winter series of cruise from Durban, South Africa, the MSC Rhapsody will arrive in Genoa on March 25, 2009. Shortly thereafter, she will be handed over to Mano Marine and undergo a refit before entering serice from Haifa, Israel on May 31, 2009.

Mano Cruise Currently operates the Iris (formerly the Konstantin Simonov / Francesca) and Royal Iris ( formerly Eagle / Eloise / Azur /The Azur).

Carnival Offers Multiple Itineraries from New York in 2009

Carnival Cruises will be offering 3 ships sailing from New York in 2009. The Carnival Victory will sail on 4 and 5 day cruises to New England Canada, followed by 7 and 9 day day cruises visiting ports further north and St. Lawrence Seaway.

• 4 Day Cruises visit St. John, New Brunswick, Canada.
• 5 Day Cruises visit St. John, New Brunswick, Canada and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
• 7 Day Cruises visit Boston. MA, Portland, ME, St. John, New Brunswick, Canada, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
• 9 Day Cruises visit Quebec City, Quebec; Baie-Comeau, Quebec; Havre St. Pierre, Quebec.

The slightly smaller, Carnival Miracle will operate 8 day cruises on two different itineraries.

• Route 1 visiting San Juan, PR; St. Thomas and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos;
• Route 2 visiting Grand Turk, Turk and Caicos; Half Moon Cay (Private Island), Bahamas; and Nassau, Bahamas.

Later in the year, the brand new Carnival Dream, a new class of ship for Carnival, will sail an abbreviated season from New York. After a transatlantic sailing from Rome to New York, in late October, the Carnival Dream, will sail on a two night cruise to nowhere, followed by two, 8-day cruises to Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas. The Carnival Dream will spend the remainder of 2009/2010 sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida alternating sailing to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean.

Carnival offers a decent cruise product, appealing to the masses at a reasonable price.