MSC Cruises Returns to the Caribbean for 2010/2011 Winter Season

(October 18, 2010) – As MSC Poesia completes her inaugural Canada/New England cruises from New York and Quebec City, MSC is counting down to another exciting Caribbean cruise season featuring memorable destinations, special theme sailings, and an unparalleled onboard experience.

When MSC Poesia sets sail from Quebec City on October 23, she begins a 9-night repositioning cruise taking her through Sydney, Boston, Newport and New York before heading to Fort Lauderdale.

Upon her return to Fort Lauderdale on November 1, MSC Poesia begins a variety of 3-, 7- and 10-night roundtrip Caribbean cruises for MSC:

* 10-night “Remarkable Rainforest & the Panama Canal” departing November 1 and calling at Cozumel, Mexico; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Cristobal, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and Montego Bay, Jamaica;
* 3-night “Tropical Getaway” departing November 11, calling at Coco Cay, Bahamas; and Nassau, Bahamas; and
* Alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises through February 27, 2011: “Western Caribbean Wonders,” cruises call at Key West, Florida; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico; “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment,” cruises call at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas/Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Nassau, Bahamas.

“Baseball greats” cruises are featured on several MSC sailings this season and offer free guest/player activities including a player-hosted trivia game, question-and-answer session, guest pitching contest, and a lively story-telling session. Players also will host skills clinics and participate in a free autograph session.

“Baseball Greats” will be featured on the November 14, January 9 and 23 and February 6, 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises and the December 5, 7-night Western Caribbean cruise.

MSC Poesia’s Caribbean cruise season ends with a 17-night Eastbound transatlantic cruise, “Bluewater Adventure,” on March 6, 2011 calling at San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. John’s, Antigua; Port Castries, St. Lucia; Funchal, Portugal; Malaga, Spain; Alicante, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; and Genoa, Italy.

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Oceania Cruises Offers Sun-Splashed Holiday Cruises

July 21, 2010 – Holidays on the high seas are festive occasions when gourmet cuisine and intriguing ports of call are added to the mix. Oceania Cruises intimate Regatta will celebrate the season with age-old and revered traditions on a Christmas and New Year’s voyage to the Caribbean , departing December 21.

“Christmas is the best time to cruise the Caribbean . The warm weather is complemented by the holiday spirit felt throughout the islands,” stated Bob Binder, Oceania Cruises’ president. “Moreover, decorations and gala onboard events will make the holidays memorable.”

The line’s popular “Sun-Splashed Holiday” onboard Regatta is a 12-day cruise, roundtrip from Miami, departing December 21, that visits the Turks & Caicos, Dominican Republic, Tortola, Antigua, Barbados, Martinique, St. Barts and St. Croix. Fares for interior staterooms are priced from $4,299 per person, double, including free air. A limited number of suites and staterooms are still available.

The holiday spirit is in the air from the moment guests embark on Oceania Cruises’ Regatta, which will be dressed from bow to stern in its festive finery. Strewn garland, wreaths, holly, Christmas trees, and even mistletoe provide a backdrop for carolers singing yuletide favorites, themed entertainment and special guest performers.

The significance of the holiday is observed at a Midnight Mass Dec. 24 and an ecumenical worship service on Christmas Day. Special Hanukkah activities are planned by a guest rabbi and menorahs will complement the ship’s seasonal decorations.

Oceania Cruises’ holiday sailings have a special culinary emphasis. Menus will include such Christmas favorites as roast turkey, goose or ham, plus traditional trimmings, sweets and eggnog. Guests can also enjoy potato latkes, matzo ball soup and Challah bread. A gala New Year's Eve deck party – weather permitting – features live music, noisemakers, party hats and Champagne .

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MSC Cruise 2010 Caribbean Theme Cruises.

(July 15, 2009) – MSC Cruises has added five new theme cruise sailings to the Baseball Greats, Polka and Big Band themes already planned for MSC Poesia’s 2009-10 Caribbean season.

“Guests have always raved about our theme cruises and the wonderful experiences they offer,” said Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc. “These new additions to the upcoming Caribbean cruise season provide even more variety to the existing 7- and 10-night roundtrip itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.”

President’s Cruise: Nov. 10, 2009-- 5-night “Caribbean Escape” itinerary. Rick Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc., will be the featured guest onboard MSC Poesia’s first sailing in the Caribbean.

Latin Music: Jan. 23, 2010-- 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment” itinerary. Rumba, samba and mambo aboard MSC Poesia to Carlos Oliva and Los Sobrinos del Juez as they perform traditional salsa dance hits and unique arrangements of pop and disco favorites with a Latin beat. Salsa dance lessons and live performances by a hot lineup of Latin music stars are sure to add plenty of flavor and rhythm to this Latin music cruise festival at sea.

Comedy: Jan. 30, 2010 7-night-- “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment” cruise itinerary. “Laughter is the Best Medicine” featuring the songs and remarkable impressions of Scott Record. The laughter continues well into the evening nightly in the ship’s comedy club with onboard performances by our featured comedians. Participate in the game show “Bonk!” (an interactive game show that is part general knowledge, part physical mayhem and all comedy).

Country Music: Feb. 20, 2010-- 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment” cruise itinerary. Boot, scoot and boogie to music by various country artists. Line dancing lessons also will be offered onboard.

Oldies Music: March 20, 2010-- 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Dream” itinerary, featuring a performance by The Lettermen – Tony Butala, Donovan Tea and Mark Preston – one of the most popular vocal groups in history. Their 45-year career of unique sound spans the big band vocal and the early rhythm and blues rock groups. The Lettermen will perfom one grand show onboard during this old time rock-and-roll festival at sea.

Plus, The Fabulous Stingrays, a party band performing songs spanning the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, will keep onboard guests rocking and rolling to the sounds of the oldies all night long. Other activities will include an Elvis look-alike contest, dance competitions, trivia games and a lecture on the rock-and-roll era.

Festa Italiana: April 10, 2010-- 7-night “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples” itinerary. This celebration of all things Italian features entertainment by opera singers and contemporary

Italian vocal artists. Dance the night away or simply sit back and enjoy performances by bands that play Italian and Italian-American favorites. Activities include Venetian mask making, a pizza throwing contest, tarantella dancing and more.

Guests have the opportunity to learn the secrets of making delicious European dishes during cooking demonstrations by top Italian chefs. They can also take a lecture on Italian Art and Architecture, Italian Automobiles or Italian Fashion and Design.

The new themes are in addition to several previously announced theme cruises:

Baseball Greats: Nov. 20, 2009-- 10-night “Dazzling Dutch Caribbean & The Panama Canal”
Big Band: Dec. 10, 2009-- 10-night “Remarkable Rainforests & The Panama Canal”
Polka: Jan. 9-- 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”
Baseball Greats: 7-night sailings: Jan. 16, 2010 and Feb. 6, 2010 “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples”; March 6, 2010 “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment”; April 3, 2010 “Eastern Caribbean Dream”
Big Band: Feb. 27, 2010-- 7-night “Island Treasures & Ancient Temples”

SilverSea Publishes 2010 Cruise Atlas

July 23, 2009) Silversea Cruises has published its new 2010 Voyage Atlas. The 188-page brochure details over 190 itineraries visiting 7 continents, over 80 countries, and more than 400 destinations.

In addition to a voyage-by-voyage summary of cruise itineraries (including many that can be combined back-to-back into one extended sailing without repeating a port), the new Voyage Atlas features comprehensive information on Silversea's signature amenities, special programs, deck plans and new simplified Silver Savings pricing structure. Voyages currently offering free roundtrip airfare from 22 gateway cities are also highlighted. The balance of the brochure is dedicated to optional Silver Shore land programs and services.

"We're very pleased to launch our new Voyage Atlas for 2010," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "It has been carefully designed to reveal the luxurious, all-inclusive Silversea lifestyle. Within its pages, readers will discover award-winning ships that offer an exclusive passport to exotic destinations, countless indulgences and uncompromising service."


GRAND INAUGURAL VOYAGE OF SILVER SPIRIT

The 2010 Voyage Atlas also includes the new Silver Spirit, and highlights her inaugural season. Departing Fort Lauderdale on January 21, Silversea's newest ultra-luxury ship is set to explore over 20 countries and 45 ports on her 91-day Grand Inaugural Voyage, visiting South America, the Mexican Riviera and crossing the Panama Canal before reaching her ultimate destination, New York City.

To celebrate such a momentous journey, Silversea is lining up an array of celebrity guest speakers (to host onboard presentations), complimentary excursions and other exclusive onshore events designed to showcase local cultures as well as entertain guests. The centerpiece of this aptly themed "Spirit of South America" voyage is the ship's arrival in Rio de Janeiro on February 14, at the height of Carnaval. Following an early dinner, guests will have the chance to experience the magic of the Rio Carnaval parade from prime seats reserved for them at the Sambadrome.

EXPANDED BUTLER SERVICE

Silversea is raising the bar in personalized service with plans to feature butlers for all guest accommodations. The enhanced service is being phased in gradually over the coming months and will be in place for all voyages in 2010. As the complimentary butler service rolls out, it will join an already expansive array of all-inclusive amenities available to Silversea guests. Highlights include complimentary beverages served throughout the ship -- including fine wines, spirits and champagnes, in-suite bar and refrigerator stocked with each guest's preferred beverage selections, open-seating dining, 24-hour complimentary room service, and fares that include all onboard gratuities.

SILVER SHORE LAND PROGRAMS

Catering to a clientele that seeks travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary, Silversea offers a unique collection of Silver Shore land adventures, hotel packages and services, enabling guests to delve deeper into local cultures, learn more about historic sites and have closer encounters with remarkable wildlife. Guests can even choose to have the Silver Shore Concierge design a special activity, private excursion or exclusive event tailored to their personal interests.

EXPEDITIONS IN LUXURY -- PRINCE ALBERT II

Expedition voyages continue to grow in popularity with luxury travelers and a special 26-page section of the Atlas is devoted entirely to the Prince Albert II. Next year 25 expedition itineraries will explore the Arctic, Antarctica, Central and South America. On every journey, guests will be escorted in unsurpassed luxury. With the largest average accommodations size of any expedition ship, guests enjoy spacious, ocean-view suites and staterooms (select suites have French balconies or large private verandas), sumptuous gourmet cuisine, warm hospitality and personalized service.

In keeping with the company's commitment to promote the use of environmentally responsible products, the Atlas is printed on paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The brochure displays the FSC's "Mixed Sources" label, certifying the paper comes from well-managed forests, controlled sources and/or recycled material.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launching in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

Crystal Cruises Adds Africa Safari to Africa Cruises

August 18, 2009 – From lions to leopards, white rhinos to wildebeest, a record number of safaris will highlight African wildlife with Crystal Cruises’ 2010 World Cruise. Eighteen Crystal Overland Adventures allow adventurous guests to closely encounter Africa’s “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo – throughout Namibia, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Kenya. The two- to five-night adventures take guests from port to some of the most celebrated game reserves in Africa, and then return them to the ship in another port. The 21-day cruise aboard Crystal Serenity departs Cape Town for Mumbai February 9, 2010, the third segment of the epic 108-day World Cruise.

Safaris include:
* Okavango Delta, Botswana – A haven for rare species, this is the only place in Botswana where endangered white rhinos can be seen in their natural habitat;

* Boulders Lodge at Singita Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa – The Singita Sabi Sand Reserve offers intimate views of leopard, zebra, elephant and giraffe living in the African bush, as well as indulgences like reflexology and hot stone therapy.

* Mala Mala Game Reserve, Rattrays – Sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, Mala Mala’s spotlight safaris showcase the nocturnal animals on their nightly hunts;

* Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara, Nairobi – Along with the vast 102-square-mile crater, guests will visit elephant and rhino orphanages established in Nairobi National Park, and Lake Manyara for a close look at hippos and giraffes;

“Each distinctly unique, the safari excursions are carefully planned at dusk and dawn to allow guests to explore the region’s wildlife in profoundly authentic ways,” says John Stoll, director, land programs. “Whether it’s watching the animals migrate from Tanzania to Kenya or lions’ nightly hunts, guests can immerse themselves in the African wild.”

The voyage visits Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Zanzibar, Tanzania; Mombasa, Kenya; Malé, Republic of Maldives; Mahé/Victoria, Seychelles; Cochin, Marmagao and Mumbai, India. Cruise fares start at $13,190 per person, double occupancy, and include a $500 per person All Inclusive – As You Wish shipboard spending credit. The Crystal Overland Adventure safaris are available from $3,055 per person, double occupancy, while partial day safaris start at $155 per person.

Holland America Announces 2010 World Cruise and Extended Holidays

July 28, 2009 — Holland America Line ’s flagship ms Amsterdam will usher in 2010 with a 128-day round-trip Los Angeles, Grand Holiday-and-World Voyage featuring 13 overnight calls — the most ever offered by the line. Forty-five ports of call showcase some of the world’s most remote and exotic regions including South America, Africa, India the Far East and scenic cruising in Antarctica .

An optional 14-day holiday cruise, when combined with the 114-day Grand World Voyage, creates the 128-day roundtrip sailing from Los Angeles , departing Dec. 23, 2009. The voyage begins with calls in Mexico and Central America, including a transit of the Panama Canal .

“Guests on Grand World Voyages seek an immersive experience, and the 2010 itinerary creates an enriching voyage,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “By adding the 14-day holiday roundtrip Los Angeles sailing to the Grand World Voyage, guests can enjoy a relaxing holiday and festive start of their Grand World Voyage.”

Guests wishing to sail after the holidays can embark Jan. 6, 2010, at Fort Lauderdale , Fla. , on a 114-day World Voyage. Amsterdam will sail the Panama Canal for a daylight transit of the man-made wonder before beginning its southbound exploration of Central and South America . Three overnight stays enable guests to explore Fuerte Amador ( Panama City ), Panama ; Callao ( Lima ), Peru , and Buenos Aires , Argentina . Other southbound calls include Manta , Ecuador ; Callao Peru ; Arica , Coquimbo, Valparaiso , Isla Robinson Crusoe and Puerto Montt, Chile .

As Amsterdam approaches the tip of South America, guests will enjoy scenic cruising past Darwin Channel, Chilean Fjords, Amalia Glacier, Canal Sarmiento and Strait of Magellan before calling at Punta Arenas , Chile . More scenic cruising follows of Cockburn and Beagle channels, a series of glaciers and Ushuaia , Argentina , before the actual rounding of Cape Horn .

The itinerary then takes a turn toward the ultimate southern destination — Antarctica, which includes the Wilhelm Archipelago, South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Sound. After the three-day Antarctic experience, Amsterdam sails to Stanley , Falkland Islands; Buenos Aires , Argentina ; and Montevideo , Uruguay , where it departs on the trans-Atlantic leg of the cruise.

Amsterdam crosses to Africa to call at Walvis Bay and Lüderitz , Namibia , before heading to South Africa for an overnight at Cape Town and calls at Port Elizabeth and Durban .

Upon reaching the Indian Ocean, guests will overnight at Victoria, Mahé , Seychelles , then head to India for overnights in Mumbai and Marmagoa before setting off to Port Kelang, Malaysia .

Next, an intense exploration of the Far East begins, including overnight calls in Singapore, Republic of Singapore; Hong Kong; Xingang (Beijing), China; and Kobe (Osaka) and Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan. Additional calls include Sihanoukville (Kampong Som), Cambodia ; Phu My (Ho Chi Min City) and Halong Bay, Vietnam ; Shanghai , China ; Cheju City , South Korea ; and Kagoshima and Hakodate , Japan . Before heading back to North America, guests will experience Petropavlovsk , Russian Federation , and gain a day when they cross the International Date Line.

Guests then have the option of disembarking in Vancouver , B.C., April 25, or Seattle , Wash. , April 26, or continuing on to Los Angeles .

The Grand World Voyage features three special celebrity-guest speakers — former television news anchor Sam Donaldson (March 28 through April 1), biographer Kitty Kelley (Jan. 28 through Feb. 7) and Grammy Award–winning musician Doc Severinsen and El Ritmo de la Vida (Jan. 6 through 11).

Reservations are now open for all four 2010 Holland America Line Grand Voyages, with a variety of early-booking bonus amenities offered to full-cruise guests. Depending upon the category booked, guests who book by Sept. 30, 2009, may enjoy shipboard credits up to $1,000 per person, an exclusive shore event, liquor service, complimentary luggage delivery service to and from gateways, pre-paid service charges and welcome-aboard champagne. Cruise fares begin at $17,999 per person for the full 128-day Grand World Voyage.

New holiday segments of Grand World Voyage, a 47-day Los Angeles to Buenos Aires and a 61-day Los Angeles to Cape Town , also are available for booking and include airfare from select West Coast gateways and select East Coast and Central cities for $200 more. The special cruise-and-air fares for the 47-day segment begin at $7,299 and for the 61-day segment at $9,299.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Anounces Celebrity Performers on Select Cruises

August 4, 2009 – Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) today announced that two star performers have been engaged to perform exclusive “Dinner and a Show” entertainment for Regent guests during upcoming long winter cruises. Florence Henderson, beloved star of TV and Broadway, will be aboard the first leg of Seven Seas Mariner’s Circle South America cruise in January, while Clint Holmes, award-winning singer and entertainer and Las Vegas icon, will be aboard the Hong Kong to Cape Town segment of Seven Seas Voyager’s World Cruise in March.

“This is yet another element of our all-inclusive luxury product,” said Kari Tarnowski, Vice President of Marketing for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “By adding this additional and complimentary dimension to our onboard entertainment we are reinforcing the tremendous value and depth of the Regent experience. These popular and dynamic stars are used to performing in much larger venues, so for our guests to be able to interact with them in our intimate and exclusive venue is truly special,” he added.

The unique “Dinner and a Show” concept was introduced aboard RSSC ships in early 2009 to instant acclaim, featuring acts such as the Tony-winning production of “Forbidden Broadway”, The Unexpected Boys, and Australian star Rhonda Burchmore. The evening begins with cocktails, followed by a specially-created music-themed menu in the exclusive Signatures restaurant, culminating in the show itself in the intimate Horizon Lounge. This event is limited to around 90 guests per evening, and the show is repeated several evenings. As with all RSSC onboard entertainment there is no charge, although reservations are necessary.

The 700-guest, all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner embarks on a 65-night Circle South America cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 10, 2010 visiting ports in Central America, transiting the Panama Canal to Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil (including the Amazon River) and the Caribbean.

The 700-guest, all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager embarks on a 119-night Grand Circumnavigation World Cruise departing from San Diego on January 14, 2010 visiting the South Pacific, Australia, the capitals of Asia, India, the Seychelles, East, South and West Africa, and the Caribbean.

Special offers for both cruises include 2-for-1 fares, Free Air (or Business Class air for $999 each way), Free Unlimited Shore Excursions, plus an additional $1000 per person savings if booked by September 30, 2009.

Smithsonian Journey Experts on CruiseWest Spirit of Oceanus World Cruise

CRUISE WEST AND SMITHSONIAN ENTERPRISES PARTNER
ON VOYAGES OF THE GREAT EXPLORERS


Epic World Cruise Will Feature Smithsonian Journeys Experts
On 10 Select Itineraries and a Cruise Sweepstakes

The Voyages of the Great Explorers – the Cruise West yearlong world cruise that launches in March 2010 -- will feature lectures and presentations by noted travel experts from the Smithsonian Journeys on select segments of the epic world voyage.

Cruise West and Smithsonian Journeys will develop the lecture series for 10 of the 24 distinct itineraries of the yearlong cruise highlighting such exotic locales as Singapore, Rome, Alexandria, Istanbul and Mumbai. Smithsonian Journeys experts will lead in-depth discussions and presentations on each region’s rich history and culture.

The Voyages of the Great Explorers is a collection of distinct voyages that reflects the exploits of the legendary seafarers. Booked separately or as a complete journey, each segment offers historical insights into the sea commanders who first made history along the same routes.

“A world journey deserves world-class lecturers and guides,” said Dietmar Wertanzl, president and CEO of Cruise West. “We recognized early on that a lecture series provided by Smithsonian Journeys would be a perfect complement for our adventure, given their long experience with onboard enrichment augmented by speakers recognized as authorities on our destinations. Working together, we can better achieve our mutual objective -- to educate people in the arts, history, sciences and culture through rich travel experiences.”

Smithsonian Journeys, the Smithsonian Institution’s educational travel program, feature top experts who are passionate about their subjects and delight in sharing their knowledge in lively, informative lectures and informal discussions.

Specific voyages featuring the Smithsonian Journeys’ Lecture Series include:

-- Voyage 2, 16-nights Song of India Chennai to Mumbai departing March 20, 2010, starts at $9,995

-- Voyage 4, 18-nights Pharaohs and Prophets Muscat to Alexandria departing April 17, 2010, starts at $10,695

-- Voyage 5, 14-nights Isles of the Turquoise Coast Alexandria to Istanbul departing May 4, 2010, starts at $11,595

-- Voyage 6, 14-nights Echoes of Odysseus Istanbul to Venice departing May 17, 2010, starts at $11,595

-- Voyage 7, 12-nights Pax Romana Venice to Valetta departing May 30, 2010, starts at $9,995

-- Voyage 8, 13-nights, Romans & Carthaginians Valletta to Rome departing June 10, 2010, starts at $9,595

-- Voyage 18, 9-nights Sojourn to Easter Island Guayaquil to Easter Island departing October 24, 2010, starts at $3,895

-- Voyage 22, 17-nights Discovering the Maori Coast Auckland to Sydney, December 15, 2010, starts at $14,395 (also a holiday cruise)

-- Voyage 23, 19-nights, The Land Down Under Sydney to Darwin December 31, 2010, starts at $10,695

-- Voyage 24, 16-nights Dragons and Spice Darwin to Singapore, January 18, 2011, starts at $10,995

Prices per voyage include a hotel night pre-cruise. For maximum savings, guests can book and pay in full by October 15 and save up to 21 percent. Guests who book more than one voyage save an additional five percent. For guests who book the entire voyage starting at $230,295, Cruise West will include first class airfare.

Other features of the partnership include select books and DVD’s provided by Smithsonian Enterprises and a sweepstakes for a cabin for two on the Voyage Three, 14-nights Treasures of Persia traveling from Mumbai to Muscat, April 4-18, 2010. Sweepstakes information is listed in the September issue of Smithsonian magazine and online at www.Smithsonianmag.com/winatrip

Departing Singapore on March 5, 2010, Cruise West’s flagship -- the 120-guest, all-suite Spirit of Oceanus -- will sail westward to return to Singapore on February 3, 2011.

CruiseWest Execs Sail on World Cruise.

August 17, 2009 - Underscoring the significance of Cruise West’s series of journeys that combine to form the worldwide exploration concept, Voyages of the Great Explorers, the West family, long recognized as pioneers in small-ship explorations, will host Voyages 1, 10 and 24. In addition, 25-year cruise veteran, President and CEO Dietmar Wertanzl will lead Voyage 13. Guests can anticipate notable hosted special events in addition to the already included excursions. Guests can save as much as 32 percent by booking and paying in full by August 28, 2009, or save up to 21 percent from August 29 - October 15, 2009.

Dick West -- chairman and managing director of Cruise West, and son of Chuck West, Alaska tourism legend and the founder of the Seattle-based cruise line -- and his family will lead three segments of The Voyages of the Great Explorers, including the inaugural 16-night voyage Lands of the Lotus from Singapore to Chennai that kicks off the worldwide adventure on March 5, 2010. The West’s family’s presence will mark a memorable start to the voyage including a themed dinner of Singaporean & Asian cuisine at the world famous and historical Raffles Hotel complete with transportation via rickshaw. In addition, esteemed Captain Reidulf Maalen will be at the helm of this voyage. The voyage also includes a two-day Ultimate Explorers Experience in Rangoon complete with a visit to the Shwedagon Temple and the Kalaywa Monastery.

The Voyages of the Great Explorers -- a collection of 24 individual voyages that combine to form a 335-day circumnavigation of the world along the major routes inspired by history’s great ocean explorers -- begins March 5, 2010, on board Cruise West’s flagship, the 120-guest, all-suite Spirit of Oceanus. Sailing ever westward, this world voyage returns to Singapore on February 3, 2011.

Supporting Cruise West’s emphasis on casual and personal cruising, West and his family will also host Voyage 10 Exploring Iberia and Gaul, which sails on July 4, 2010, from Barcelona to Honfleur in 16-nights. West will host two additional ultimate explorer special excursions, Catalonian Tapas & Flamenco in Barcelona, and a private visit to Château Kirwan in Bordeaux that includes a wine aperitif tasting and an authentic French dinner accompanied by exceptional wines.

On the final 16-night segment, Voyage 24 Dragons and Spice, sailing from Darwin to Singapore on January 18, 2011, West will also host special functions that will be announced soon. The exciting itinerary includes a visit to the spectacular temple complex of Borobudur and Komodo Island.

In addition, Dietmar Wertanzl, president and CEO of Cruise West, will lead the 13-night Voyage 16 In Search of El Dorado, which sails from Palm Beach to Panama via the 50-mile long Panama Canal on October 13, 2010. Guests can anticipate a unique and memorable event hosted by Wertanzl including a pre-cruise party at the historic Brazilian Court Hotel in Palm Beach.

Cruise West explorers can purchase individual voyages, a set of multiple voyages, any of the six Chapters, or the full circumnavigation. Prices per voyage start at $4,995 and include a pre-cruise hotel night. For maximum savings of 32 percent book and pay in full by August 28; or save up to 21 percent by paying in full from August 29-October 15, 2009. Guests who book more than one voyage will save an additional five percent.

Sapphire Princess Features Pacific Crossings and Hawaii Cruises in 2010

(August 17, 2009) – Princess Cruises has added seven new sailings to its fall 2010 to spring 2011 schedule aboard Sapphire Princess, including two leisurely Pacific crossings between California and Sydney, plus additional Hawaii cruises.

“Due to the enthusiastic response to our 2009 Trans Pacific sailing we wanted to offer additional opportunities to experience this unique itinerary,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “The two new month-long sailings visiting 13 tropical ports of call will give cruisers a true taste of the idyllic South Pacific.”

Swartz added that increased interest in roundtrip Hawaii sailings prompted Princess to add several more of these sailings to its west coast lineup as well.

The new Sapphire Princess voyages include:

2-day Pacific Coastal (Vancouver to San Francisco) – September 20, 2010
30-day Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific (San Francisco to Sydney) – September 22, 2010
29-day Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific (Sydney to Los Angeles) – October 23, 2010
10-day Mexican Riviera (roundtrip out of Los Angeles) – January 5, 2011
14-day Hawaiian Islands (roundtrip out of Los Angeles) – January 29, 2011
14-day Hawaiian Islands (roundtrip out of Los Angeles) – February 26, 2011
14-day Hawaiian Islands (roundtrip out of Los Angeles) – March 26, 2011

The new sailings are currently open for sale, with fares starting at $199 per person for the new two-day coastal cruise. Hawaiian Islands sailings begin at $1,995 per person, and Pacific crossings begin at $4,195 per person.

To accommodate the new cruises, which were added as a result of shifting demand in the west coast cruise market, Princess has cancelled 15 previously scheduled Mexican Riviera sailings. An additional 17 Mexican Riviera sailings are still available during this time period.

Princess 2010/2011 World Cruises

(May 7, 2009) – Princess Cruises once again spans the globe in 2010-11 with a new season of worldwide cruising to all seven continents. With the new program, passengers will be able to explore the charm of the South Pacific with an extended program on sailings to the romantic isles of Tahiti and French Polynesia, or enjoy a number of new routes in Australia, China, the Indian Ocean, Middle East, and a new world cruise itinerary. In addition, world explorers can take in the spectacular scenery of South America and Antarctica, or the jungles of the Amazon River.

In total, eight ships will sail to Africa, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific, India and South America.

Diamond Princess returns to Australia and Asia and features a new Australia & China itinerary sailing from Sydney to Beijing. The intimate Ocean Princess also sails throughout Asia with some intriguing longer routes, including a new holiday sailing from Singapore to Bangkok, and the opportunity to travel to India and Africa. Star Princess explores South America featuring a new holiday voyage to Antarctica sailing from Rio de Janeiro, while the intimate Pacific Princess explores the vastness of the Amazon River. Royal Princess offers more Tahiti and Hawaii sailings while Golden Princess explores the Hawaiian Islands from Los Angeles. For world travelers, Pacific Princess offers a new 107-day world cruise route featuring Western Australia and Cape Town via West Africa. Dawn Princess and Sun Princess continue year-round Australia-based cruising throughout the region.

Travelers will also have six new ports to explore, including Maputo, the capital of Mozambique; Toulon in the south of France providing access to charming Provence; Jeddah in Saudi Arabia; Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE); Manila, the heart of the Philippines; and Xiamen, a charming Chinese seaport.

“Our decades of experience enabled us to design the very best ways to see these exotic destinations, whether passengers are exploring a new continent for the first time or are returning to delve deeper into the local culture.” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.

Princess’ 2010-11 worldwide cruise program includes:

Royal Princess to Tahiti and Hawaii – Royal Princess will offer an extended seven-month season sailing among the islands of the South Pacific tropical paradise. The ship will sail on 13 cruises on a 10-day Tahiti & Polynesia itinerary featuring Princess’ two-day experience in Bora Bora, an overnight stay in Tahiti (Papeete) and calls at Huahine, Rangiroa, Raiatea, and Moorea. The ship also sails on eight 12-day Hawaii & Tahiti voyages between Honolulu and Tahiti (Papeete), calling at Moorea, Raiatea, Bora Bora, Hilo, Maui (Lahaina), and Kauai (Nawiliwili). In addition, passengers can enjoy sailing the Pacific between Vancouver and Honolulu (or extend to Tahiti) on two 10-day journeys to Hilo, Kona, Maui (Lahaina), and Kauai (Nawiliwili). Royal Princess will sail in the region from September 14, 2010 to May 8, 2011.

Diamond Princess in Asia and Australia/New Zealand – Diamond Princess sails to Asia as well as Australia & New Zealand, with a variety of itineraries including a new 23-day Australia & China route from Sydney to Beijing. Other options include seven cruises on a 16-day Southeast Asia & China itinerary between Beijing and Bangkok (or Singapore), four departures on the favorite 12-day Australia & New Zealand cruise between Sydney and Auckland, a 17-day Eastern Australia & Asia cruise from Bangkok to Sydney, and two Alaska & Far East cruises between Anchorage and Beijing to begin and end the season. Diamond Princess sails from September 11, 2010 through May 6, 2011.

Ocean Princess Sailings to Asia, India and Africa – Ocean Princess offers the small-ship experience on a series of voyages throughout Asia, including new itineraries such as a 16-day South China Sea holiday sailing, a series of four 12-day China & Japan Explorer sailings now between Shanghai and Osaka, and a 39-day Indian Ocean and Middle East journey from Singapore to London (Dover). The ship will also offer a 31-day Africa, India and Southeast Asia voyage from Cape Town to Singapore with additional cruise options with up to 56 days to explore this destination. Sailings depart between October 27, 2010 and April 29, 2011.

Star Princess to South America and Antarctica – Star Princess offers a variety of South America journeys, including sailings around Cape Horn (between Santiago and Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires) and two Antarctica adventures. Among the options are a new 20-day Antarctica & South America Adventure from Rio to Buenos Aires, as well as a 16-day Antarctica journey roundtrip from Buenos Aires. The ship also sails on four 14-day Route to Rio sailings between Santiago and Rio de Janeiro, one 12-day Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan sailing from Buenos Aires to Santiago and a 16-day Andes & South America sailing from Santiago to San Francisco. Star Princess’ South America season runs from December 20, 2010 to April 3, 2011.

Pacific Princess through the Amazon – Pacific Princess will offer two sailings on a 14-day Amazon River adventure between Ft. Lauderdale and Manaus, Brazil. The ship will visit St. Thomas (or St. Maarten), St. Lucia, Tobago, Devil's Island (Île Royale), and the Amazon ports of Santarém, Boca da Valéria, and Parintins plus an overnight visit to Manaus. Pacific Princess sails on December 22, 2010 and January 5, 2011.

Golden Princess to Hawaii – Golden Princess again sails on Princess’ popular Hawaii route, offering convenient 14-day roundtrip sailings from the port of Los Angeles. The itinerary features visits to the Big Island (Hilo), Honolulu, Kauai (Nawiliwili), and Maui (Lahaina). Golden Princess will sail on 16 departures between September 29, 2010 through April 27, 2011.

Pacific Princess World Cruise – Pacific Princess spans the globe with a new 107-day journey that features travel through Western Australia and around the southernmost tip of Africa, visiting some of the most dramatic locations on the globe as it sails between Fort Lauderdale and Rome. Calls include Grand Cayman, Panama Canal Transit, Quito (Manta), Lima (Callao - for Machu Picchu Overland Excursion), Easter Island, Pitcairn Island scenic cruising, Tahiti (Papeete), Moorea, Auckland, the two-day Sydney Experience (includes two full days & overnight), Burnie (Tasmania), Adelaide (for Ayres Rock Overland Excursion), Bunbury, Perth (Fremantle), Bali (Padang Bay), Bangkok (Laem Chabang – for Angkor Wat Overland Excursion), Ko Samui, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur (Port Kelang), Andaman Islands (Port Blair), Cochin (for Taj Mahal Overland Excursion), Mumbai, Muscat (Mina Qaboos), Dubai, Seychelles (Port Victoria), Maputo (Mozambique), Durban, East London, two-day Cape Town Experience (includes two full days & overnight), Lüdertiz (Namibia), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Lomé (Togo), Tema (Ghana - for Accra), Dakar (Senegal), Madeira (Funchal), Casablanca (for Marrakech), Gibraltar, Barcelona, Toulon (for Provence), Monte Carlo and Portofino. This world cruise departs on January 19, 2011 with segments of 19 to 33 days available for explorers who’d like a shorter voyage.

Sun Princess and Dawn Princess Australia Departures – Both Sun Princess and Dawn Princess will offer a selection of sailings departing from Sydney and Melbourne, featuring Australian-style cruising. Itineraries include voyages to New Zealand, Tasmania, New Caledonia & Vanuatu, and Round Australia sailings that circumnavigate the continent. Sun Princess will also sail on a 42-day journey to China & Japan roundtrip from Sydney and Dawn Princess offers a 35-day Hawaii, Tahiti and South Pacific voyage. The season’s sailings depart between September 3, 2010 and April 3, 2011.

A variety of cruisetour packages are available in Australia, Asia and South America, offering cruise passengers the opportunity to add to their vacation with such wonders as the Great Wall of China, the Terra Cotta Warriors, Angkor Wat, Ayers Rock, the Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s Kakadu National Park, Iguazu Falls and Machu Picchu.

Exotic cruises are available for booking on May 21, 2009. Launch Fares for seven-day sailings start at $945 per person, based on double occupancy. Past Princess passengers are eligible for up to $100 in Captain’s Circle Launch Savings on bookings made by December 31, 2009.

Princess Cruises Expands 2010 Summer Caribbean Season

April 29, 2009 – Two Princess ships will sail to the Caribbean during summer 2010, more than doubling the line’s capacity for the season. Passengers will have the option of five itinerary choices, as well as sailing from New York and Florida.

Caribbean Princess returns to offer the popular nine-day itinerary from New York to Bermuda and the Caribbean, while Emerald Princess will sail on seven-day roundtrip cruises from Fort Lauderdale to the Western and Eastern Caribbean. Together, the two ships will offer 30 departures to the sun-filled islands of the Caribbean.

“We’ve seen increased interest from passengers in sailing to the Caribbean during the summer,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “So in response, we’ve significantly expanded our program to offer cruisers a choice of sailings and the option of two departure ports.”

Caribbean Princess from New York – Caribbean Princess’ summer season from New York will feature 10 departures between May 2 and July 29, 2010. Eight of the nine-day voyages sail roundtrip on an itinerary that includes Bermuda (West End), St. Thomas, Grand Turk and San Juan. Caribbean Princess will also offer two sailings to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Grand Turk and San Juan. In addition, the ship sails on a special seven-day Eastern Caribbean & Bermuda sailing from San Juan to New York featuring calls in Bermuda, St. Thomas and Antigua.

Emerald Princess from Fort Lauderdale – Emerald Princess will sail on week-long Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale, departing from May 9 to September 12, 2010. The ship will offer nine Eastern Caribbean departures calling at Princess Cays, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Grand Turk, alternating with 10 Western Caribbean sailings to Princess Cays, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

Caribbean Princess and Emerald Princess both offer a variety of passenger-favorite features perfect for cruising the balmy waters of the Caribbean, such as the dramatic poolside “Movies Under the Stars” outdoor theater and the line’s signature Sanctuary, an adults-only pocket of tranquility featuring plush lounge chairs and massage cabanas. Passengers will also enjoy hallmark Princess features such as the piazza-style atrium with its International Café and Vines wine and seafood bar.

Launch Fares for nine-day Caribbean Princess summer Bermuda & Eastern Caribbean cruises begin at $1,099 per person, and seven-day sailings on Emerald Princess begin at $699, based on double occupancy. A $50 per person Captain’s Circle Launch Savings discount is available to Princess past passengers on bookings made by December 31, 2009. Sailings open for booking on May 14, 2009.

Bermuda Government Welcomes Cruise Ships Again

Over the years, the cruise industry and the Bermuda Government have had a love hate relationship. When the cruise ships sails to Bermuda, the local hotels and restaurants complain because, cruise passengers sleep and eat on board the ships - leaving hotel rooms and restaurants empty. Rightfully so since passengers are using the beaches and attractions but generating very little revenue. The government reacts by limiting the number of ships calling at the island in hopes that hotel bookings will increase. When they restrict the number of ships, a good number of tourists find the hotels and eateries very expensive and opt not to go to Bermuda at all.

After a year or two of lost revenue or reduced tourism, Bermuda welcomes the cruise ships and their passengers back.

Last year Bermuda decided that they no longer wanted ships to call at St. George and Hamilton. All ship calls would be at the Royal Navy Dockyard and passengers would have to ferry to Hamilton or St. George - if wishing to visit those locations. Mid-way through the year, the Bermuda Government, in a turn of events, started a major effort to attract upscale cruise lines back to Hamilton and St. George. This effort did attract some upscale cruise lines to make occasional calls at these locations, but none on a regular basis.

In 2008 and 2009, only 4 ships will regularly call at Bermuda for more than one day. Changing their minds, the Bermuda Government decided that they wanted to welcome the cruise lines back, offering to allow cruise lines to open up their casinos in port after 10:00 PM. Casinos are a major source of on-board revenue for cruise lines. Previously the casinos would need to remain closed until the ship left port.

In 2010, two additional ships will be calling at Bermuda, spending extended time in the port. The Veendam will be the only ship offering calls at both St. George and Hamilton, while Celebrity Cruises will be returning to Bermuda after a 3 year absence calling at the Royal Navy Dockyard. Celebrity Cruises Summit will be sailing from Cape Liberty, Bayonne, NJ and Holland America's Veendam will be sailing from Manhattan.

These 2 ships will be calling at Bermuda, in addition to, the Norwegian Dawn (from NY), Norwegian Spirit (From Boston), Grandeur of the Seas (from Baltimore & Norfolk, Va) and Explorer of the Seas (From Cape Liberty, Bayonne, NJ) which are expected to continue to sail to the port thru 2010.

With 6 ships having extended stays at Bermuda, it is anticipated that cruise fares may drop in 2010 to this popular cruise destination.