Luxury Operator Silversea Offers Shorter Cruises

In its continuing mission to provide guests with more choices, ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has just announced a new collection of eight shorter cruises for 2013. These convenient four- to seven-day voyages to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean are designed for time-strapped working professionals, travelers who like to combine a cruise with a land program, and individuals who may be new to luxury cruising and would like a taste of Silversea's award-winning, all-inclusive experience.

"Many travelers today have busy schedules that make it difficult to fit in time for an extended luxury cruise vacation," said Ellen Bettridge, Silversea's president of the Americas. "It's important for us to offer options that cater to these consumers as well as those who have time for longer voyages."

Silversea's new shorter voyages for 2013 include:

FOUR DAYS

• Northern Europe Voyage 1318B: Silver Cloud, June 15 - 19, Hamburg to Copenhagen, with calls in Warnemünde (Rostock) and Helsingborg. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,830.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2307C: Silver Wind, March 16 - 20, Barcelona to Rome, with calls in Monte Carlo and Livorno. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,360.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2314A: Silver Wind, May 14 - 18, Rome to Monte Carlo, with calls in Bonifacio, Calvi, and Livorno. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,590.

FIVE DAYS

• Mediterranean Voyage 2307B: Silver Wind, March 11 - 16, Lisbon to Barcelona, with calls in Málaga, Cartagena, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,560.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2314B: Silver Wind, May 18 - 23, Monte Carlo to Barcelona, with calls in Sóller de Mallorca, Ibiza, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,170.

SIX DAYS

• Northern Europe Voyage 1318A: Silver Cloud, June 9 - 15, Southampton to Hamburg, with calls in Honfleur, Oostende, Antwerp, and Amsterdam. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,610.

SEVEN DAYS

• Mediterranean Voyage 5309B: Silver Spirit, April 16 - 23, Lisbon to Barcelona, with calls in Portimão, Cádiz, Málaga, Ibiza, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,730.
•  Mediterranean Voyage 5314B: Silver Spirit, May 25 - June 1, Athens to Rome, with calls in Katakolon, Corfu, Kotor, Dubrovnik, and Sorrento. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,810.

Aboard Silversea's intimate, all-suite ships, guests enjoy spacious ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine, the personalized service of a butler, and a generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet, and all gratuities.

Silver Privilege fares listed above are cruise-only rates per guest, based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite. Silver Privilege is a capacity-controlled program and subject to change.

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Azamara Club Cruises' Azamara Journey Emerges From Refit

Azamara Cruises' Azamara Journey Fresh from Refit.

Azamara Journey, the second of Azamara Club Cruises’ twin boutique ships to undergo refurbishment, emerged today from an eight-day drydock in Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard.  Azamara Journey, now complete with a refresh of all public spaces and staterooms and an elegant new “Azamara Blue” exterior hull, continues its Asia season with a 13-night Indonesia voyage round-trip from Singapore.

With its newly refreshed ships, the cruise line that sails to exciting destinations around the world that larger ships are unable to reach is poised to break away from its category. Azamara features longer stays and more overnights in port to present up-market travelers the opportunity for night touring. Paired with the new complimentary AzAmazing Evening event on every voyage, starting with each ship’s Europe 2013 season, Azamara is delivering to guests the most authentic, intimate and bespoke travel experiences that showcases the nightlife of some of the world’s most intriguing destinations.
Shipwide renovations included new carpets, upholstery, and a new color palette in public spaces reflecting the cruise line’s inviting atmosphere; new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture for suites and staterooms; and a resurfaced pool, and new sun loungers and pool towels on the outer decks.  The Casino Bar also was expanded and enhanced with new furniture, while the Spa and fitness center was refreshed with a new steam room, showers, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment. Furthermore, a range of enhancements were made behind the scenes in the staff and crew areas to add to the comfort of the cruise line’s most valuable asset.

On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy a new caviar and champagne bar within Aqualina, one of the ships’ two specialty dining venues, as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus – Italian, French and Californian. At Mosaic Café, the ships’ central gathering spot, guests can purchase a freshly brewed cup of bespoke coffee or tea.

Guests aboard Azamara Journey enjoy more inclusive amenities, such as included gratuities for housekeeping, dining and bar staff; complimentary bottled water, sodas, specialty coffee, and teas, as well as complimentary red and white boutique wines to accompany lunch and dinner; complimentary self-service laundry; English Butler service for suite guests; and shuttle transportation to city centers in ports, where available.

Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for up-market travelers who not only want to see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. Azamara’s two intimate, 694-guest ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, with a combination of 347 suites and staterooms, offer a European-boutique hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, and wellness and vitality programs, all while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships cannot reach. Azamara Club Cruises sails European destinations, including the Baltic and Scandinavia, British Isles, Western Europe, French and Italian Rivieras, Greek Isles, Croatia, Holy Land and Black Sea, as well as Asia, South America and lesser-traveled islands of the West Indies, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region.

Travelers also can choose even more immersive experiences with Azamara cruisetours in eight of the world’s most exciting destinations, including Rome, Athens, Buenos Aires, Cairo, Istanbul, Jordan and Israel, India, and China.                       

                   

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SeaDream Cruises SeaDream II to Sail in Asia in Late 2013

SeaDream Yacht Cruises Sails to Asia in 2013 onboard the SeaDream II

Prompted by demand from it’s very loyal Club members, SeaDream Yacht Club has just released full details on its plans to sail a series of voyages in Asia and Northern Australia beginning in late 2013. The line reports that one of its twin mega-yachts, SeaDream II will sail to Asia after completing her 2013 Mediterranean season. Sure to be a unique voyage, the “Passage to the Far East” will depart Athens, Greece in October 2013 and include a transit of the Suez Canal, excursions to Egypt’s fascinating archeological sites (accompanied by Egyptologist) and calls to several other intriguing destinations before arriving in Mumbai, India. From Mumbai, the yacht will sail to Singapore and the Far East, planning to offer 18 unique voyages in the region. Voyages are 7 to 15 days long, but most may be combined as a back-to-back voyage for a lengthier holiday.  

Scheduled to stay in Asia through April 2014, itineraries include numerous exotic ports in several different countries including Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar (Burma), East Timor, Northern Australia, Indonesia, New Guinea, Vietnam, Cambodia and Hong Kong. “Whether you crave the peace and tranquility of undiscovered beaches and islands or the exhilarating energy and buzz of foreign cities, Asia offers something for everyone” said SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto. Adding, “Virtually every country in the region is accessible by water and SeaDream’s yachting itineraries include an incredible mix of commercial cities, pristine beaches and impressive historical sites. We’ve planned very unique calls, such as the little-visited islands of the Burmese Mergui Archipelago in the Andaman Sea and Sanya, on Hainan Island in China.”

Each voyage offers exciting and unique ports of call. Highlights include:

•  Overnight, 2-day stay in Yangon, Myanmar (Burma), site of The Shwedagon Pagoda. Optional full day excursions by air to Mandalay and Bagan; a valley covered with 2,000 pagodas and temples.
• Yachting the beautiful Langkawi Archipelago of Malaysia.
• Visiting “the beach” (made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie “The Beach”) in the Phi Phi Islands of Thailand. 
• Diving the vibrant underwater paradise of Thailand’s, Similan Islands National Park. 
• Playing great golf in Malaysia, Phuket and at the Andaman Club, a five star golf resort & casino on Thahtay Kyun Island, Burma.
• Spending New Year’s Eve in Patong Bay, Phuket, Thailand. A night of fireworks and thousands of floating, candlelit paper “magic lanterns”.
• Exploring the world heritage site of Halong Bay, Vietnam; one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
• Seeing giant monitor lizards on Komodo Island. 
•  From Singapore, pre & post voyage overland packages to Cambodia including Angkor Wat and the many famous temples. Also from Singapore, overland packages to Borobudur (UNESCO site) and Yogyakarta, site of the Prambanan Temple. 

SeaDream first shared the news with their devoted past guests and their travel professionals, allowing their Club members to be the first to reserve space, on what are expected to be highly sought after voyages.

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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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Norway's Hurtigruten Prepares to Celebrate 120th Anniversary

Hurtigruten's Nordnorge is a typical Norewgian Coastal cruiser

Hurtigruten is commemorating the 120th anniversary of its six to 12-day Norwegian Coastal Voyages – long known by the epithet bestowed by Lonely Planet -- “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage” -- with enhanced offerings focusing on music, culture and culinary and detailed in a new 2013 Norway Brochure.  A staple of Norwegian culture since 1893, Hurtigruten’s fleet of modern ships offers a unique glimpse into Norwegian culture as they transport guests and locals alike along Norway’s spectacular west coast, stopping at 34 ports of call between the cultural center of Bergen and Kirkenes, high above the Arctic Circle.

    The new brochure details the extraordinary voyage and land opportunities available in 2013 – local culinary specialties, Viking history and myth, the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, stunning fjords and rare glimpses of wildlife, to name a few – as well as an exciting array of more than 45 optional excursions to help personalize the voyage for each guest.  Travelers booking by Sept. 30, 2012 are rewarded with an early booking discount of up to 25%; some limitations may apply.  Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a free loyalty club for guests who have sailed a minimum of three nights on any Hurtigruten ship in the past, receive a 5% discount on the voyage fare as well as a range of other exclusive benefits.

    Hurtigruten presents guests with an ever-changing landscape of small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands; Art Nouveau Ålesund, the medieval Viking capital of Trondheim; and Norway's "Paris of the North," Tromsø.  A diverse array of optional excursions provides opportunities for customization of the experience, offering an ever deeper understanding of Norwegian culture.  Options for 2013 include a trip to the breathtaking Geiranger Fjord – a UNESCO World Heritage Site praised by National Geographic – featuring cascading waterfalls, emerald waters and panoramic views of Ålesund; a journey across the 71st parallel to the North Cape, the northernmost point in Europe and home to grazing reindeer and the indigenous Sami people; and the Lofotr Viking Feast, which immerses guests in Viking culture with a visit to the Viking museum and a real Viking feast, complete with home-brewed mead.  Guests are encouraged to book optional excursions prior to departure as space can be limited.

    For those seeking to combine other travel plans with a Hurtigruten sailing, the recently added port-to-port pricing allows visitors of Norway to create a truly customized vacation experience, choosing the number of days they wish to sail and between what ports.

    Sailing aboard Hurtigruten ships means large, comfortable lounges with panoramic windows and wonderful views from large outdoor decks; open seating for most meals; authentic Norwegian cuisine designed with fresh seasonal ingredients and incredible seafood, complemented by a comprehensive wine list; multilingual tour directors; a range of comfortable cabin choices that includes large suites, some with private balconies; and a friendly and well-informed crew, ready to offer assistance and learned suggestions.

    Fares subject to availability and include accommodation in cabin grade of choice; full board; a selection of complimentary items onboard for suites; International flights, optional excursions, fuel surcharges are additional.

Membership in the 1893 Ambassador Club loyalty is free of charge and its included discounts are for the cruise component only.  Guest who have already cruised can join by visiting www.hurtigruten.us/1893 or calling 877-301-3059; new travelers can join the program while onboard their voyage or after returning home.

    Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall.  The company’s fleet of 14 intimate ships, carrying 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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MSC Cruises MSC Divina Dining Options

MSC Cruises MSC Divina Dining Options

The divine dining experience awaiting guests of MSC Cruises’ newest ship will be celebrated in appropriate style at MSC Divina’s christening ceremony in Marseilles, France, on May 26, when renowned French Chef Christian Constant will delight guests with two signature menus created especially for the event.

Chef Constant, who is also a favorite on the European version of the popular Top Chef program, runs three stylish Parisian restaurants, each known for its individual style, ambiance and menu.

A sneak preview of Chef Constant’s christening menus reveals culinary gems such as Medallion of Spiny Lobster accompanied by diced Niçoise vegetables flavored with horseradish, and Crispy Supreme of Mediterranean Sea-Bass with almonds accompanied by caper Ravigote sauce and a salad of spinach sprouts.

An impressive selection of France’s best wines has been carefully chosen to accompany the menu, and for dessert guests will savor the delicious Christian Constant mille-feuille Divina with half-salted butter caramel.

MSC Cruises wholeheartedly believes that delicious, authentic cuisine lies at the heart of a wonderful vacation and that a cruise should always be a gastronomic tour of discovery. MSC Cruises also knows that for guests to make the most of MSC Divina’s fabulous design, innovative new features and breathtakingly beautiful ports of call, they must be nourished with the finest dishes made from the freshest, best quality, ethically sourced, and locally inspired ingredients.

That’s why, when the christening ends and guests board the ship, they will be dazzled by the multiple dining options available and by MSC Divina’s ability to provide something delectable to meet all tastes and moods.

New and unique to MSC Divina and a highlight for many guests will be Galaxy, a fashionable new panoramic restaurant in the disco. Based on the style of famous 1950s Italian nightclubs such as La Capannina and Forte dei Marmi, Galaxy takes La Dolce Vita and the theme of light as its inspiration and appeals to all of the five senses.

Galaxy’s theme of light also means that the overall space has been created around specially designed lamps. Refined, elegant and reflecting modern minimalism, the stylish black, grey and Bordeaux color scheme means that the fabulous cuisine will look, as well as taste, wonderful whatever time of day.

Providing a fabulous brunch menu for late risers, including the delectable eggs Benedict, savory croissants and tasty Parma ham, a selection of fresh juices, and the “bubbles” menu including spumante, champagne and rosé, Galaxy will be the perfect kick-start to a day on board or on shore.

In the evening, diners will indulge in fabulous Mediterranean fusion cuisine such as roasted scallops on a cream of courgette and basil soup with porcini mushrooms and fried leeks, or succulent sea bass tartare with fresh goat cheese, crispy sesame seed wafers and liquorice sensation.

The emphasis is on sampling the food, enjoying the music in red, grey and black surroundings, while watching the stars and sipping a Galaxy cocktail or a high quality wine from the sommelier selection, which can be purchased by the glass.

It could be difficult to come back to earth after tasting one of Galaxy’s delightful meals, but luckily MSC Divina’s six other restaurants, including the exclusive MSC Yacht Club restaurant
Le Muse, the Sacramento Tex Mex and the Sacramento Hamburger House, offer a whole range of exciting and sumptuous dining options to keep guests’ taste buds entertained for the whole length of their cruise.

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More Details Revealed on Hapag-Lloyd's New Europa 2

Europa 2 - Hapag-Lloyd's New Europa

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ new Europa 2 will take to the high seas in May 2013 and promises to set new luxury standards on the worldwide oceans. Her maiden voyage will take place from May 11-25, 2013 from Hamburg to Lisbon. The ship is currently being built at the shipyard STX Europe in Saint-Nazaire, France.
The newly built addition to the fleet will feature eleven decks, all-suites with their own outdoor verandas, and the largest space per passenger ratio in the cruise industry.
The Europa 2 will be positioned as the modern, lifestyle-oriented sister ship of the world’s only 5-star-plus ship, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS Europa, and will cater to a sophisticated, international, and cosmopolitan target group. In order to meet the requirements of these guests, all of the cruises of the Europa 2 will be international, meaning they will be conducted in both German and English for the duration of all cruises.

“We are breaking new ground with the Europa 2. She will represent a modern and casual interpretation of luxury cruises in terms of her architecture, her restaurants and her entertainment program,” said Sebastian Ahrens, Managing Director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

Side View Hapag-Lloyd's New Europa 2

“The Europa 2 will offer an international atmosphere for sophisticated, cosmopolitan customers who still have very demanding professional lives and are looking for the greatest possible degree of individuality in their spare time. We have therefore consciously decided to do without cruise traditions such as the Captain’s Dinner.”

“The ship will be positioned internationally, English-speaking guests will feel comfortable on every cruise on the Europa 2. Most of the entertainment on-board, does not rely on language. The on-board announcements will generally be reduced to a minimum and made in German and English at all times,” added Ahrens.

Flexibility and individuality will be found in every detail from entertainment to gourmet cuisine onboard the Europa 2. The routes of the Europa 2 will be geared towards working people and families, with one-week itineraries offered. Personalized service will be heightened, with more than 370 staff members for a maximum of 516 guests, as well as butler and travel concierge services offering unsurpassable quality when it comes to catering to the needs of guests.
New standards will also be set with regards to environmental protection - the Europa 2 is the first cruise ship equipped with catalysts (SCR = process of Selective Catalytic Reduction), which reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides by almost 95 percent.

Shorter Routes, Ideal for Working People and Families

With 7-day combinable cruises to the Mediterranean in the summer months and 13-20 day combination cruises to faraway destinations in the winter, the Europa 2 will meet the requirements of working people and families with limited vacation time. The ship will call at a total of 123 ports, with 26 different itineraries in 2013. The cruises will take guests to the Western and Eastern Mediterranean and to the Arabian Peninsula, as well as Southeast Asia. The size of the ship is a major advantage – with a length of 225 meters/ 739 feet and a draught of 6.3 meters/ 20.7 feet, the Europa 2 is capable of calling at small, rarely visited ports such as Bonifacio and Portofino, which is not an option for most larger ships. Furthermore, a total of twelve Zodiacs will be onboard, to take passengers to lagoons and beaches, for example, in remote parts of Southeast Asia where ships can't dock.

Accommodations On-board, All-Suites

The Europa 2 will exclusively offer Veranda Suites with balconies each measuring at least seven square meters/ 75 square feet facing the sea, a novelty in the cruise market. In addition, all suites will have a mini bar, which is free of charge, Internet access via Wi-Fi (at an extra charge) and a tablet PC. The 251 suites in seven different categories, measure in size from 28 – 99 square meters/ 301-1,066 square feet, and will offer their own whirlpools with ocean view in the highest categories. In addition, 16 Spa Suites will have whirlpool tubs and rain showers with steam saunas, providing guests with a private oasis of wellbeing on-board. For families traveling together, there will be seven family style suites, where parents and children can live in two separate areas, connected by a door and the shared balcony.

Culinary Diversity with Flexible Times and Open Seating

The restaurant concept onboard the Europa 2 will be synonymous with diversity and flexibility – flexible mealtimes, no assigned seating, and plenty of tables for two.
There will be eight restaurants to choose from among them, three speciality restaurants with Mediterranean, French and Asian cuisine, as well as a Sushi Bar. All restaurants are included in the cruise price (excluding beverages). On special occasions, guests can book the private dining room, allowing them to dine in a very personal atmosphere. There will also be an on-board cooking school, equipped by Miele, where professional chefs will provide guests with unique insights. In addition to the eight restaurants, six bars are to be found on-board.

Entertainment with Exclusive Productions & Performances

The entertainment program will reflect the modern concept of the Europa 2. The theater will have modern stage technology and a large LED wall extending across two stories – a novelty on a relatively small ship. For the first time for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the entertainment program will feature spectacular productions, performances and light shows.
The shows will have no adaptation of shore programs, but instead will be exclusively performed on-board the Europa 2. Two different shows per week will be offered, ensuring plenty of variety. Passengers who spend 14 days on-board will see four different shows. International guest artists will further enhance the entertainment program. Many shows do not start simultaneously, allowing guests to enjoy more than one show nightly.

Wellness and Fitness: 1,000 Square Meters/ 10,000 Square Foot Spa

Guests will also find diversity and plenty of space in the wellness area of the Europa 2, which will boast 1,000 square meters/ 10,000 square feet. Treatments ranging from massages, to facials, to Thalasso therapy, will be offered in the eight treatment rooms at the spa. The extensive sauna landscape grants every guest more space to relax than any other ship of this class. In addition, passengers can book a Personal SPA experience and enjoy the private sauna and whirlpool facilities, as well as massage beds and comfortable relaxation furnishings, by the hour or the day, in an intimate atmosphere.
The onboard facilities also include a large fitness area with fitness and cardio equipment, as well as a room where Pilates and Spinning will take place. Upon request, a Personal Trainer is available to counsel guests on their workout, and sports hosts are available to organise shore excursions, for example, bicycle tours or Nordic Walking.

Child Care Available For Toddlers Two And Older

Young cruise passengers are sure to enjoy themselves in the Kids and Teens Club, compiled by qualified child care specialists. For the first time in the German market, childcare will now be available for toddlers two and older on the Europa 2 (subject to charge).
There will be a special area for the infants called the “Knopf Club,” equipt with cots, changing tables and a lounge furnished with cuddly toys, by the renowned manufacturer Steiff. Steiff is a German-based plush toy company known for its high quality for over 100 years.
Children ages 4-10 years old play in the adjacent Kids Club, and children 11-15 years old get together in the Teens Club, where table football, video game consoles, or the disco will await them. Children eleven and under travel free of charge on board the Europa 2, when accompanied by two full-price cruise guests. Shore excursions for children, teenagers, or the entire family are offered on all family cruises.

MSC Cruises Announces Their new Ship MSC Preziosa

MSC Cruises continues its rapid expansion with the announcement that the company has finalized negotiations with STX France and signed a contract to take over a 139,400-ton cruise ship following the termination of the agreement with the original owner.

The new ship is named MSC Preziosa and will become the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet, as well as the precious fourth vessel in the series of Fantasia-class ships, which include MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida and the long-awaited MSC Divina. MSC Divina, the sister ship of MSC Preziosa, is currently having her final touches applied in the STX ship yard in St. Nazaire, France before her christening in May 2012.

“The new ship represents an investment of €550 million and will be delivered at the end of March 2013. Negotiations with STX France have lasted over nine months; a significant but understandable period of time considering the importance of the investment and the unexpected nature of the takeover,” said Mr. Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO, MSC Cruises. “When MSC Preziosa is delivered we will have four ships of every class, giving us a total capacity of over 40,000 berths and the strength to sail in all seas. MSC Preziosa herself will sail the Mediterranean, exploring the beauty of Greek Islands, which represent the highlight of European cruising.”

“STX France is delighted with this successful outcome after months of negotiations. The length of time necessary to settle them is the perfect illustration of the challenges faced by the cruise industry in terms of financing, which impact our industry directly. It’s the new Achilles’ heel, after competitiveness, on which our efforts are now focused,” said Laurent Castaing, STX France General Manager. “In this context, the integration of X32 into the prestigious MSC Cruises fleet is a relief and a real pleasure for STX.”

MSC Preziosa will boast 1,751 staterooms, 17 guest elevators – including a private elevator for MSC Yacht Club guests – and 14 guest decks. Guests will be able to enjoy four main restaurants, including two speciality restaurants, 21 bars, a casino, four swimming pools, including an infinity pool, 12 whirlpools, mini-bowling, a sports area with game courts, a Fitness Center, a children’s area and the superb MSC Aurea Spa.

An exclusive feature of MSC Preziosa – and of all Fantasia-class ships – is the MSC Yacht Club. Privileged guests staying in the 69 exclusive MSC Yacht Club suites will be able to take advantage of the private sun deck which includes The One Pool & Bar as well as two whirlpools; and the spectacular glass-walled Top Sail observation lounge with amazing ocean views. Butlers provide assistance with luggage during embarkation and debarkation; unpack and pack guests’ belongings upon request; serve traditional English afternoon tea; arrange for fine cigars, wines and spirits; and make dining room reservations as well as reservations for MSC Aurea Spa services; coordinate ad hoc shore excursions; and even plan private parties.

Forty-five percent of MSC Preziosa’s total construction is now complete, and her mechanical zones are 70% complete. The best, however, is yet to come! MSC Cruises will soon begin the fitting and furnishing of the 1,094-foot long, 124-foot wide ship and work its unique Mediterranean magic on turning MSC Preziosa into a stylish masterpiece and a perfect mix of advanced technology, elegance and exclusive services.

Cruise guests who want to play their part in reducing carbon emissions can also relax in the knowledge that MSC Preziosa’s green features, including an advanced waste water treatment system (AWT) and advanced energy saving systems, with a focus on air-conditioning, will gain the same impressive industry-leading ecoship and cleanship credentials as her sister ship MSC Divina.

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Sea Dream Yacht Offers Upper Amazon River Cruises in 2013

SeaDream Yacht Club is offering a unique, 7-day voyage on the Upper-Amazon River in 2013. The voyage sails from Iquitos , Peru roundtrip, March 16 - 23, 2013. “There are currently no other luxury vessels of SeaDream’s size sailing the Upper-Amazon. In addition to it being a unique itinerary, its ideal for those preferring just a week-long voyage to explore this amazingly diverse area” said SeaDream’s President, Bob Lepisto.

The intermediary ports for voyage #21310 include Leticia, Columbia ; Panelas , Brazil ; Jutai , Brazil ; Santo Antonio do Ica , Brazil ; Amatura , Brazil ; Monkey Island , Columbia and Pebas , Peru . SeaDream has arranged for a team of local experts to sail onboard including, naturalists, a botanist, a historian and an expedition leader. This “expedition team” will be taking guests on complimentary zodiac safaris, village walks and jungle treks in the Upper-Amazon. The team will also provide daily lectures and presentations, sharing their immense knowledge of the Amazon Rainforest and River.

Near Leticia , Colombia guests will arrive by zodiac to " Monkey Island ", a sanctuary for monkeys and an opportunity to hand feed squirrel monkeys. In Panelas , Brazil guests on zodiacs will skim past massive lily pads and peer up at towering ceiba trees as they are taken to an area noted for its sloths, monkeys and Tamandua anteaters. At the end of each day’s jungle adventures, guests return to their comfortable expedition base, SeaDream II.

To compliment this voyage, guests may book a pre or post land based travel program to Machu Picchu . SeaDream has teamed up with experienced local partners and together have created insightful excursions through Lima , Cusco and Machu Picchu . Tours include accommodations in five-star hotels, transportation on the Orient Express luxury train, the Hiram Bingham and more. Expertly escorted by specially selected local licensed guides, these are authentic cultural experiences designed for the sophisticated traveler.

Accommodating a maximum of 112 guests, SeaDream’s voyage fare includes river view accommodations, all gourmet meals, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with selected premium brands, gratuities, use of water toys, mountain bikes, golf simulator and more.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Offering 2013 Cruise/Land Tours in Alaska

Starting today, Norwegian Cruise Line guests can book pre- or post- Cruisetours to round out their dream Alaskan cruise vacations in 2013. Ranging in length from four to six days, guests can select the perfect Alaskan adventure from four different packages. The tours are escorted by a local Alaskan guide, giving each guest the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of Alaska . Each Cruisetour features two nights in Denali National Park , as well as a ride on the iconic Alaska Railroad.

For guests wanting to explore the wilderness or the history of Alaska , there are two five-day options available: Denali/Alyeska Explorer and Denali/Fairbanks Explorer. The Denali/Alyeska Explorer gives guests the opportunity to hike on Winner Creek Trail, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see animals in their natural setting or take a helicopter ride to land atop a glacier. The Denali/Fairbanks Explorer offers an up close look at the Gold Rush that swept the nation, the Alaskan Pipeline, a visit to an Athabascan Indian Village and the chance to experience the midnight sun.

For those with an adventurous spirit, the Authentic Alaska Cruisetour is the best option, offering diverse activities in a six-day tour. Guests can take a trip to an Iditarod Sled Dog Musher’s house to learn about the “Last Great Race” and meet some of the dogs (also included in both Explorer Cruisetours). In Homer, guests can learn more about the fishing history as well as take in the scenic view of Katchermark Bay ’s glaciers and mountains. The tour concludes with a visit to Alaska ’s largest city, Anchorage , where guests can enjoy hiking trails, local restaurants and the Alaska Native Heritage Center .

Guests who have limited time to explore the state can take advantage of the Denali Express package to explore Alaska in four days. Two days in Denali can be spent visiting the Denali National Park to view wildlife or go rafting, fly fishing, golfing and hiking before taking a ride on the world famous Alaska Railroad.

“We want to offer our guests a chance to have an authentic Alaskan experience before or after their cruise as this is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian’s chief executive officer. “Our new Cruisetours give guests an up close look at the culture, wildlife and natural beauty of this destination and are all guided by a knowledgeable Alaskan local.”

On sale today, pre- or post-cruise land packages can be purchased as part of Norwegian Sun’s 2013 cruises from Whittier , Alaska . Beginning May 20, 2013, Norwegian Sun’s northbound itinerary departs Vancouver , British Columbia on Mondays, and will cruise the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier and make stops in the Alaskan favorites of Ketchikan , Skagway and Juneau . On her southbound itineraries from Whittier , Alaska , the ship will cruise the Inside Passage, Sawyer Glacier and Hubbard Glacier, as well as making stops in Ketchikan , Skagway , Juneau and Icy Strait Point.

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Azamara Cruises Announces 2013 Cruise Schedule

Azamara Club Cruises today announced the cruise line’s 2013 line-up of voyages. Throughout the year, up-market travelers can choose among a total of 69 voyages aboard the cruise line’s two European boutique-hotel style ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Select Azamara voyages also coincide with cultural celebrations, such as Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, the Monaco Grand Prix, the Andalusian Festival and the British Open, to offer guests a truly destination-immersive travel experience. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest will visit nearly 40 new ports in 2013, including Beijing (Xingang), Shanghai (Haitong) and Jinhae, South Korea in the Far East; as well as charming Amasra (Safranbolu), Turkey, and 2014-Winter Olympic host-city Sochi, Russia in the Black Sea. Cassis, France; Propriano, Corsica; and Palamos, Spain also will be maiden ports in the Mediterranean, as well as idyllic Honningsvaag, Gudvangen, Tromso, and Svolvaer (Lofoten) on the Norwegian Coast. Onboard, guests will delight in Azamara’s extraordinary service from every staff and crew member, as well as enjoy delectable dining options in four restaurants. All Azamara Club Cruises 2013 voyages are now open for booking.

“We are delighted to present Azamara’s next collection of voyages in 2013,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. “We continue to offer more late-night and overnight stays in ports than any cruise operator to offer guests the chance to savor a destination’s nightlife, and oftentimes, after the other cruise ships have departed. We also encourage travelers to add on an Azamara cruisetour with their voyage to delve even deeper into a destination’s culture or combine consecutive Azamara voyages for a grand odyssey.”

At the beginning of 2013, Azamara Journey will sail four Southeast Asia voyages, 14, 15 and 17 nights in length, and two 14-night voyages throughout China, Korea and Japan – featuring overnight stays in such vibrant metropolises as Hong Kong; Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand; Hanoi and World Heritage Site Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City and Hue (Danang), Vietnam; Shanghai (Haitong), China; and Kobe, Japan.

The ship then heads to the Mediterranean for the summer and autumn seasons, featuring Adriatic and Greek Isles, Egypt and Holy Land and Black Sea voyages, ranging from seven to 12 nights. Overnight stays will include Alexandria and Safaga, Egypt; Venice, Italy; Mykonos, Greece; and Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel.

Azamara Journey also will sail six French and Italian Riviera voyages in June and July featuring overnights in Monte Carlo, Monaco; St. Tropez, France; Ibiza, Spain; and Sorrento, Capri and Florence (Livorno), Italy. Azamara Journey then returns to the Far East via Dubai and Mumbai (Bombay), India to round out the year with three Southeast Asia voyages, culminating with an overnight call at Phuket, Thailand on New Year’s Eve.

Azamara Quest, on the other hand, will sail a range of South America and West Indies voyages, ranging from 12 to 18 nights, featuring overnight calls at Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, Argentina; Punta Del Este, Uruguay; Rio De Janeiro, Brazil for Carnaval; and St. Barts. The ship continues from Miami to the Spanish and French Rivieras in March for four- to 11-night voyages, featuring overnights in Seville, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain; Monte Carlo; Provence (Marseilles) and Cannes, France; and Lisbon, Portugal.

In June and July, Azamara Quest will sail North Sea, Norwegian Coast and Baltic voyages, ranging from nine to 14 nights, featuring overnights in St. Petersburg, Russia; Hamburg, Germany; Reykjavik, Iceland; Oslo, Norway; Stockholm, Sweden; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Azamara Quest then embarks on a series of French and Italian Riviera, and Adriatic Sea voyages in August and September that range from seven to 11 nights, before returning to explore the lesser-traveled island jewels in West Indies for the winter season on eight- and 12-night voyages. On the New Year’s voyage, guests will count down the seconds ‘en Français’ while overnight in St. Barts.

Travelers also can choose among two President’s Voyages in 2013. President and CEO Larry Pimentel and his wife Sandi will join guests on these special voyages and host parties, informal get-togethers, and a complimentary shore event. Guests will enjoy a destination-immersive travel experience as the cruise line’s chief visionary does, as well as receive a special gift. Azamara’s 2013 President’s Voyages are planned for the April 3, Art on the Cote d’Azur sailing of Azamara Quest, and for the October 1, Tuscany to Provence sailing of Azamara Journey.

Guests aboard Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest also enjoy more inclusive amenities, such as included gratuities for housekeeping, dining and bar staff; complimentary bottled water, sodas, specialty coffees, and teas, as well as complimentary red and white boutique wines to accompany lunch and dinner; complimentary self-service laundry; English Butler service for suite guests; and shuttle bus to city centers in ports, where available.

Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. Azamara’s two intimate, 694-guest ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, with a combination of 347 suites and staterooms, offer a European-boutique hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, and wellness and vitality programs, all while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships cannot reach. Azamara Club Cruises sails European destinations, including the Baltic and Scandinavia, British Isles, Western Europe, French and Italian Rivieras, Greek Isles, Croatia, Holy Land and Black Sea, as well as Asia, South America and lesser-traveled islands of the West Indies, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region.

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P&O Cruises 3 Ships Embark on Maiden World Cruise in 2013

‘Awe inspiring adventures’ as Azura embarks on maiden world cruise in 2013

The newest P&O Cruises ship and the largest ever in the fleet to embark upon a world cruise will depart in spring 2013. The maiden Azura Grand Odyssey is 110 nights and takes in 32 ports in 19 countries.

The cruise is one of a wide selection in the 2013 World Cruise brochure, which also includes itineraries on board Arcadia, Aurora and Adonia – the latest and smallest ship to have been added to the fleet. At just 710 passengers, Adonia sits at the opposite end of the scale to Azura, which can carry 3,100 passengers.

This is the largest ever P&O Cruises world program, with the four ships visiting 94 destinations in 52 different countries and collectively covering 131,824 nautical miles. The four ships represent a 23% increase in world cruise capacity compared to 2012.

A video news release highlighting the popularity and growth of world cruises is available on the P&O Cruises YouTube channel and Facebook page. It can be downloaded for hosting on independent sites from www.youtube.com/pandocruises.

P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow, said: “P&O Cruises knows ocean travel like no other. With every passing year more passengers are attracted to our world cruises, seeing a world cruise as the perfect opportunity to travel the world in comfort and style, choosing a luxury cabin and unlimited luggage over youth hostels and a backpack.

”In 2013 we are offering a selection of awe inspiring adventures, with cruises on some very special ships. These are the ultimate cruises, exploring different parts of the world and providing the holiday of a lifetime always with the ‘P&Oness for which we are renowned.”

The world cruise program offers the best ever value with Early Booking savings and free on board spending money, which increases per person depending on the grade of cabin booked, available for bookings made before November 30, 2011. In addition, an extra 10% discount is available for bookings made by August 31, 2011.

Passengers booking the 110 night Azura Grand Odyssey before August 31, 2011, will receive Early Booking savings of between £800 to £2,000 per person, plus the additional 10% discount, and free on board spending money of between £220 to £1,100 per person (an inside cabin compared with a suite).

In addition to the four full world cruises, 18 line voyages are available on Aurora, Arcadia and Azura. The line voyages go to or from Australia and New Zealand and range from 40 to 69 nights in duration.

Prices are from £3,059 (cruise only) for a 41 night Southampton to Perth (from Fremantle) cruise on Azura, including Early Booking savings of £300 and free on board spending money of £90 per person. The cruise calls in Barcelona, Athens (from Piraeus), Cairo / Giza (from Port Said), transit Suez Canal, Safaga, Dubai, Mumbai, Colombo, Langkawi, Bangkok (from Laem Chabang), Singapore, Bali and Perth (from Fremantle).

Holiday Package Add-ons including flights, transfers and overnight hotel stays where necessary, are available for purchase from £600 per person for the above Southampton to Perth (from Fremantle) package on Azura. Alternatively prices are ‘cruise only’ so that passengers can arrange their own flights and pre or post cruise holiday extensions.

Pre and post cruise city stays are offered in Auckland, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane, priced from £79 per person per night (SkyCity Hotel, Auckland).

The 2013 World Cruise brochure also offers two ‘Boomerang’ cruises – offering a circumnavigation of the globe on two different ships (sail out on one, return with a different) with extended free time in Sydney. The first Boomerang cruise sails from Southampton on Aurora and returns on Azura, after three or four nights in Sydney.

The second Boomerang cruise sails from Southampton on Azura and returns on Arcadia, after two or three nights Sydney.

The Azura Grand Odyssey departs on January 7, 2013, highlights are:

· 110 nights
· 32 destinations in 19 countries
· 36,999 nautical miles
· Cruises via the Middle East, India, Australia, the Far East and South Africa
· Highlight ports of call include Bangkok, Singapore, Bali, Melbourne, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, Mauritius and Cape Town
· Extended two day calls in Dubai, Singapore (two separate calls), Sydney, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Cape Town
· Prices for the 110 night Grand Odyssey are from £8,099 after Early Booking savings plus 10% discount, and includes £220 free on board spending money


“Azura’s maiden world cruise visits many ports of call for the first time – including those in Australia – the home of her Godmother, prima ballerina Darcey Bussell. Her maiden call into Sydney will be celebrated in true P&O Cruises style when we hope to reunite Darcey with her ship for the first time since performing her Godmother duties in April 2010,” continued Marlow.

“This is a classic itinerary featuring some of the most exciting and cultural destinations around the world. The ship itself takes inspiration from around the globe, with an Indian fine dining restaurant, Sindhu, Italian inspired casual restaurants Verona and Venezia, and wines from all over the world selected and served by the glass in The Glass House wine bar.

“These features combined with her variety of bars, restaurants, dance floors, spa, gym, shops, theatre and library make Azura the perfect ship for travelling the world and many of our passengers will be excited to hear that she will be offering her maiden world cruise so soon after entering service.”

The smallest ship in the fleet, Adonia, has her second world cruise in 2013, an 85 night port-rich exploration of South America. Departing on January 8, 2013, highlights are:

· 85 nights
· 35 destinations in 17 countries
· 22,802 nautical miles
· Highlight ports of call include Manaus, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Coquimbo (Chile) and Lima
· Cruises through the Beagle Channel and the Panama Canal
· Sails by Cape Horn, Amalia Glacier and PIO X Glacier
· Return sail to UK via the Caribbean, calling at smaller islands not visited by other ships in the fleet, St. Barts and Virgin Gorda
· Prices for the 85 night South American Odyssey are from £7,649 after Early Booking savings plus 10% discount, and includes £200 free on board spending money


The Aurora World Circumnavigation departs on January 7, 2013, highlights are:

· 106 nights
· 39 destinations in 25 countries
· 37,243 nautical miles
· Cruises via the Caribbean, North America, New Zealand and Australia, Japan, China, India and the Middle East
· Highlight ports of call include San Francisco, Honolulu, Bora Bora, Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, Osaka, Xingang, Shanghai, Ko Samui, Mumbai, Safaga and Haifa
· Includes new port of call, Sokhna in Egypt
· Transits the Panama Canal and Suez Canal and features extended two day calls in San Francisco, Hong Kong and Dubai
· Prices for the 107 night World Circumnavigation are from £8,549 after Early Booking savings plus 10% discount, and includes £220 free on board spending money

The Arcadia South America and Pacific Adventure departs on January 5, 2013, highlights are:

· 99 nights
· 32 destinations in 20 countries
· 34,780 nautical miles
· Highlight ports of call include Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Papeete, Bora Bora, Suva, Sydney, Auckland, Pago Pago, Honolulu and San Francisco
· Sails by Cape Horn, Amalia Glacier, PIO X Glacier, Easter Island and Pitcairn Island
· Cruises through the Beagle Channel, Milford Sound and Panama Canal
· Prices for the 99 night South America and Pacific Adventure are from £8,099 after Early Booking savings plus 10% discount, and includes £200 free on board spending money

The World Cruises 2013 can be booked from July 14, 2011.

Shorter cruise sectors are also available and can be found in the Winter Holidays brochure, on sale July 15, 2011.

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Celebrity Cruise Places Solstice Class Ship in the Caribbean in 2012/13

Celebrity Cruises plans to send its four newest Solstice Class ships and two “Solsticized” ships to the Caribbean in the winter of 2012-13, giving vacationers multiple options for luxurious getaways in stylish spaces with gourmet cuisine, extraordinary service, and fun activities. In total, Celebrity will present 103 Caribbean sailings with 21 distinct itineraries visiting ports from three homeports, from November 2012 through April 2013.

Recognizing that people’s vacation time is precious, Celebrity has shaped a 2012-13 winter destination lineup that exemplifies the premium cruise brand’s focus on offering a multitude of ways for people to have the best vacation experience possible.Earlier this week, Celebrity announced to its Captain’s Clubloyalty program members that the first full season for its fifth Solstice Class ship, the 3,030-guest Celebrity Reflection, currently under construction, will be in the Caribbean. Three other Solstice Class ships will also offer Caribbean itineraries. Celebrity Constellation, which was “Solsticized” in 2010 to include many of the features of Celebrity’s award-winning Solstice Class, and Celebrity Summit, which will be “Solsticized” in early 2012, also will present vacationers with the opportunity to enjoy luxurious getaways in the region.

Members of Celebrity’s Captain’s Club will have the opportunity to be the first to secure space on Celebrity Reflection during her inaugural Caribbean season, as well as on a “9-Night Northern Europe inaugural debut” cruise in Europe, two Mediterranean sailings and one transatlantic sailing that will precede the ship’s official naming and an additional three-night Caribbean inaugural debut cruise. A special booking window for Captain’s Club members opened yesterday and will be available through April 19; more information is available on a special landing pageon Celebrity’s website.

Bookings will open to the general public on April 20, along with the full line-up of Caribbean bookings. That same winter, Celebrity also will offer a full season of cruises in Hawaii and the Panama Canal, along with a 13th season of its popular South America cruises. These will open for booking on April 21.

Recently, Celebrity announced that its Solstice Class flagship, Celebrity Solstice, will be the first Solstice Class ship to offer sailings in Australia/New Zealand, and that Celebrity Millennium will sail Celebrity’s first Asia season.


Award-winning Solstice Class experience provides premium Caribbean escape

By positioning its four newest ships and two of its Solsticized ships in the Caribbean in a single season, vacationers seeking luxurious accommodations, extraordinary service, gourmet cuisineand fun, enriching activities will have many choices.

* Celebrity Reflection will sail roundtrip from Miami, Florida on alternating seven-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries, departing on Saturdays.
* Celebrity Silhouette, which will debut in Europe later this year, will offer alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, departing from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida on Sundays. New to this itinerary in 2012-13 will be a different Western Caribbean lineup, as Celebrity is replacing calls to Roatan, Honduras and Costa Maya, Mexico with calls to Labadee, Haiti and Falmouth, Jamaica.
* Celebrity Eclipse will sail 14-night roundtrip Southern Caribbean voyages from Fort Lauderdale, plus one eight-night Eastern Caribbean sailing at the start of the season.
* Celebrity Equinox will present 10- and 11-night “Ultimate Caribbean” itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.
* Celebrity Summit will offer seven-night Southern Caribbean cruises with two alternating itineraries, departing on Saturdays from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Celebrity will add new venues and new AquaClass staterooms – a category Celebrity introduced in 2008 with the debut of Celebrity Solstice – when it Solsticizes Celebrity Summit in early 2012.
* Celebrity Constellation will present a series of four- and five-night cruises roundtrip from Miami.

Onboard luxury in Hawaii, Panama Canal, South America

Four Celebrity ships will offer vacationers the opportunity to explore Hawaii, the Panama Canal and South America in 2012-13, with a total of 29 sailings ranging from 11 to 17 nights in length and visiting 42 ports of call.

Celebrity will present a full season comprised of cruises in Hawaii and the Panama Canal. The 1,814-guest Celebrity Century will offer eight 15-night Hawaii sailings roundtrip from San Diego, California, as well as four 15-night Panama Canal cruises between San Diego and Fort Lauderdale.

Celebrity Millennium will offer two 15-night Panama Canal sailings between San Diego and Miami, as well as an 11-night Hawaii sailing from Ensenada, Mexico, to Honolulu, Hawaii.

After her first Australia/New Zealand season, Celebrity Solstice will offer an 11-night Hawaii sailing from Honolulu to Ensenada. Both 11-night voyages will include overnights in Lahaina and Honolulu.

Celebrity Infinity, which will be Solsticized later this year, will present five Panama Canal voyages: one will be 17 nights in length, from Seattle, Washington to Fort Lauderdale, and four will be 15 nights long, between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego.Celebrity will add new venues and new AquaClass staterooms – a category Celebrity introduced in 2008 with the debut of Celebrity Solstice – when it Solsticizes Celebrity Infinity later this year.

Celebrity Infinity’s South America season will feature a core offering of 14-night “Around the Horn” cruises between Valparaiso, Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Two of these will be Antarctica cruises. The season also includes a 15-night “double holiday” cruise on December 22, from Valparaiso to Buenos Aires, and an early-season 15-night Panama Canal and South America cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Valparaiso.

Immersive cruisetours to add depth to South America experience

Vacationers who wish to deepen their experience in South America can take advantage of Celebrity’s cruise tour offerings, which combine select cruises with a three- or five-night pre- or post-cruise escorted land package.

A three-night Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls package will highlight both the city dubbed “the Paris of South America” and the second largest waterfall in the world. A five-night “Machu Picchu Explorer” package will include visits to Lima, Urubamba, and Santiago, Peru. In the Sacred Valley, guests will visit the ruins of Machu Picchu via a full-day trip on the Vistadome railcar.

Travelers seeking a more immersive South America experience can combine a cruise with both a pre-cruise and a post-cruise land package. All of these packages are escorted by a local tour director and include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities, breakfasts and some additional meals.