Princess Cruises Adds New South America and Tahiti Sailings in 2014

Crown Princess - Princess Cruises - Adds Modified 2014 Itineraries.

Princess Cruises has added several new Exotics cruise options in spring 2014, giving passengers additional vacation choices in the popular destinations of South America and the South Pacific. Options include a new South America grand adventure aboard Crown Princess – the first such voyage for the vessel. In addition, Pacific Princess will add new departures of the line’s signature Tahiti & French Polynesia cruises plus additional Hawaii and South Pacific voyages.

During Crown Princess’ South America debut, passengers can enjoy highlights such as an overnight call in vibrant Rio de Janeiro during the city’s famous Carnaval celebrations, sailing around legendary Cape Horn, an optional overland tour to the dramatic Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, and Princess’ first call to Ilhabela (“beautiful island”) an island that lives up to its name with lovely beaches and natural beauty. The new 49-day voyage travels from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles, sailing first to Brazil, then around Cape Horn along the Chilean Fjords and up the Pacific coast. Shorter segments of 16- to 33-days are also available.

To add more of the line’s signature Tahiti & French Polynesia voyages, Pacific Princess will move to the South Pacific to offer three additional departures of this popular 10-day itinerary. The ship will also offer new departures of a 16-day New Zealand & South Pacific sailing from Sydney to Tahiti; a 12-day Hawaii & Tahiti sailing from Tahiti to Honolulu, and a 10-day Hawaiian Islands crossing from Honolulu ending in Vancouver, British Columbia. Many voyages can be linked for a Grand Adventure of 22 to 26 days.

“South America and the South Pacific have been among our most popular cruises recently, so these new voyages offer wonderful additional opportunities for passengers to explore the natural beauty and colorful cultures of these destinations,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “Whether passengers want to meet a penguin or learn to hula, these cruises offers a great way to find the experience of a lifetime.”

The new Exotics sailings include:

49-day South America Grand Adventure – Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles
Featuring an overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval and Princess' maiden call to Brazil’s Ilhabela, this adventure also starts off with calls in St Thomas, St Kitts, Barbados, Trinidad, and Recife. After an overnight stay in Buenos Aires, the cruise then sails around the famed Cape Horn at the tip of South America and features scenic cruising of the Chilean Fjords, plus calls in Montevideo, the Falkland Islands (Port Stanley), Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Punta Arenas (Chile) and Puerto Montt. While traversing South America’s Pacific coast, this voyage offers the opportunity to take an overland tour to the famed Inca ruins at Machu Picchu, plus port calls including La Serena (Coquimbo), Pisco (San Martin), Lima (Callao), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), San Juan Del Sur (Nicaragua), and Puerto Vallarta.
Departs February 15, 2014 on Crown Princess

10-day Tahiti & Polynesia – Roundtrip Papeete
One of Princess’ classic voyages, featuring an overnight in Papeete, Tahiti, plus visits to the idyllic isles of Huahine, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora (for a two-day call), and Moorea.
Departures on March 12, March 24, April 1, 2014 aboard Pacific Princess

16-day New Zealand & South Pacific – Sydney to Papeete
From Sydney, the ship heads for three calls in New Zealand – Tauranga, Auckland, and Bay Of Islands. After crossing the International Date Line, passengers can relax in paradise with visits to Pago Pago, Bora Bora, and Moorea, before arriving in Tahiti.
Departs February 25, 2014 on Pacific Princess

12-day Hawaii and Tahiti – Papeete to Honolulu
The Polynesian paradises of Tahiti and Hawaii will enchant passengers on this cruise featuring calls in Moorea, Bora Bora, Hilo, Kona, Maui (Lahaina), and Kauai (Nawiliwili)
Departs April 11, 2014 on Pacific Princess

10-day Hawaiian Islands – Honolulu to Vancouver
Passengers can revel in visits to Kauai (Nawiliwili), Kona, and Hilo before heading across the Pacific for relaxing time at sea on the way to British Columbia.
Departs April 23, 2014 on Pacific Princess

Pacific Princess’ 2014 World Cruise will be cancelled to allow for these new sailings; however the first segment of the cruise departing January 20, 2014 will remain available for purchase. The 35-day sailing from Ft. Lauderdale to Sydney will feature a transit of the Panama Canal, calls to Ecuador, Peru, Easter Island, French Polynesia and New Zealand before arriving in Sydney on February 25, 2014.

Crown Princess’ previously scheduled Caribbean cruises from February 15 to April 26, 2014 have been cancelled to allow for the new South America voyage. Passengers on the rescheduled sailings are being notified and assisted with finding alternate cruise options.

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InnerSea Discoveries Adds an Expedition Vessel to Hawaii in 2013

Wilderness Explorer - InnerSea Discoveries - 2013 Hawaii Sailings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Princess Cruises Offer Discounts Through July 9th On Select Sailings

Princess Cruises Caribbean Princess

Princess Cruises is starting July with a bang with the “Red, White and Blue Sale” from July 2-9, featuring cruise deals on North American departure cruises. Travelers can save up to $1,000 per stateroom plus receive up to $100 stateroom credit on cruises to the Caribbean Panama Canal, Canada & New England, Hawaii, Mexico and West Coast.
The Red, White and Blue Sale includes more than 80 cruise options in 2012, departing between September and December.
In addition to fare savings, passengers booking interior or oceanview staterooms can receive an onboard credit of $25 (cruises up to 9 days) to $50 (cruises 10 days or longer), and in balcony staterooms or above can get credits of $50 (cruises up to 9 days) or $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer). All onboard credits are offered per stateroom.
Examples of cruise deals include:

• Caribbean cruise – 7 days: $699 balcony (was $949); $499 interior (was $599)
   
• British Colombia & West Coast cruise – 7 days: $649 balcony (was $1,149); $499 interior (was $899)
   
• Canada & New England cruise – 7 days: $999 balcony (was $1,299); $549 interior (was $799)
   
• Mexico cruise – 7 days: $899 balcony (was $1,149); $699 interior (was $799)
   
• Roundtrip Panama Canal cruise – 10 days: $1,599 balcony (was $1,649); $999 interior (was $1,099)
   
• Hawaiian Islands cruise – 14 days: $1,799 balcony (was $2,345); $1,099 interior (was $1,445)
   
• Full Transit Panama Canal cruise – 14 days: $1,799 balcony (was $2,299); $1,099 interior (was $1,599)

All cruise prices are per person, based on double occupancy. The Red, White and Blue Sale begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on July 2 through 11:59 p.m. PDT on July 9, 2012 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Reservations made during the sale require a non-refundable deposit.

Additional cruise sale information is available at http://www.princess.com/sale.

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Princess Cruises Father's Day Sale

Princess Cruises Diamond Princess

Princess Cruises is celebrating Father’s Day with a special five-day cruise sale from June 14-18. Passengers will find cruise deals perfect for Dad to destinations such as Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Europe, the Caribbean and Hawaii.

The Father’s Day Sale offers passengers savings up to 60 percent off of launch fares per stateroom, plus up to $100 onboard credit. The sale includes more than 80 cruise options in 2012, departing between August and December.

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

• Caribbean cruise – 7 days: $799 balcony (was $949); $549 interior (was $599)
 
• Grand Mediterranean cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,290); $799 interior (was $2,190)
 
• Greek Isles cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,240); $799 interior (was $2,140)
 
• Hawaii cruise – 14 days: $1,899 balcony (was $2,345); $1,199 interior (was $1,445)
 
• Southeast Asia cruise – 16 days: $2,199 balcony (was $3,185); $1,499 interior (was $1,995)

All cruise prices are per person, based on double occupancy. The Father’s Day Sale begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on June 14 through 11:59 p.m. PDT on June 18, 2012 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Reservations made during the sale require a non-refundable deposit.

 Additional cruise sale information is available at http://www.princess.com/sale.

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Princess Cruises Bases Ship in San Francisco Year-Round

Princess Cruises announced today that for the first time it will base a ship in San Francisco year round, beginning in May 2013. The extensively renovated Grand Princess will first offer a series of Alaska cruises during the summer months from the “City by the Bay,” followed by a schedule of Hawaiian Islands, Mexico and the California Coast sailings during the fall 2013 to spring 2014 season.

Last year the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess underwent the largest drydock in Princess Cruises history, adding a host of new features so that passengers will enjoy the same onboard experience as offered by the line’s other newer ships.

“Princess has been cruising from San Francisco nearly as long as our company has been in operation, so we have a rich history with the city, and we are the leading cruise line homeporting there,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “Our Bay Area passengers and travel agents have long been asking for more cruise options from San Francisco and our new year-round schedule with Grand Princess will now give them a great selection of itinerary choices, plus the benefit of sailing on a ship that offers our signature features and amenities.”

"Princess ships have been cruising from San Francisco for more than 40 years, and we greatly appreciate the company's longstanding partnership with our city," said Monique Moyer, executive director of the Port of San Francisco. “We are delighted to now have our first year-round ship based here, and it is a natural fit that the vessel is the caliber of Grand Princess. Having this ship sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and berth at the foot of Coit Tower will be spectacular, both for the passengers on board and the people of San Francisco."

During the 2013-14 season Grand Princess will sail roundtrip from San Francisco to:

Alaska – Grand Princess’ first Alaska season features 10-day Inside Passage sailings. The ship will offer 13 voyages featuring the stunning scenery of Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm, with calls at Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. Cruises depart between May 10 and September 7, 2013.

Mexico – Grand Princess will offer two sailings on a new 10-day itinerary to Mexico, featuring two new ports for Princess – Loreto and La Paz, both in Baja California. Passengers will also enjoy calls at Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Sailings depart on September 17, 2013 and March 5, 2014.

California Coastal – An increasingly popular Princess itinerary, Grand Princess will take passengers to Santa Barbara, Los Angeles (Long Beach), San Diego, and Ensenada. Four sailings are offered on September 27 and October 19, 2013; plus March 15 and April 6, 2014.

Hawaiian Islands – Passengers can explore each of the main Hawaiian islands on this 15-day voyage to the Big Island (Hilo), Oahu (Honolulu), Kauai (Nawiliwili), Maui (Lahaina), and Ensenada. Grand Princess will offer 12 departures between October 4, 2013 and April 28, 2014.

During last year’s drydock Grand Princess added a variety of passenger amenities, including a completely new Piazza atrium, several new eateries – including Alfredo’s Pizzeria and the Crown Grill – and the line’s first specialty tea lounge called Leaves. Also included in the renovation were a remodeled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner’s Martini Lounge and a new nightclub, The One5.
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Disney Cruise Line Expands 2012 Home Ports Including Los Angeles, Alaska, New England Canada, Europe, Hawaii and More.

(Sept. 22, 2011) – Based on an overwhelming response to its first Hawaiian itinerary, Disney Cruise Line is adding a second Hawaii cruise to its 2012 schedule. The addition of a second Hawaiian voyage complements a diverse array of Disney Cruise Line itineraries departing from the West Coast, including cruises to the Mexican Riviera, Pacific Coast and Alaska.

With a majority of its West Coast sailings originating from the Port of Los Angeles or the Port of Seattle, a Disney family cruise vacation is more accessible to guests from the western United States.

“We listen to our guests, and shortly after we announced our first Hawaiian voyage it was clear our guests wanted more options to visit Hawaii,” said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. “This second sailing to Hawaii is part of a wide variety of Disney Cruise Line vacation options for families in 2012 including new itineraries, regional homeports and the debut of our newest ship, the Disney Fantasy.”

2012 Los Angeles Schedule

Two Hawaiian Sailings…

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will offer two special voyages to Hawaii from Los Angeles, calling on Kahului, Maui; Nawiliwili, Kauai; Honolulu, Oahu; and Hilo plus Ensenada, Mexico.

The 15-night Hawaiian itinerary, which includes nine days at sea, departs April 29, 2012. The newly-added 14-night Hawaiian itinerary, with eight days at sea, departs Oct. 14, 2012.

The Disney Wonder will sail through the breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, where guests can experience the famous beaches of Waikiki on Oahu, see the views from high atop the summit of Haleakala Crater on Maui, take in the lush tropical gardens and waterfalls of Kauai and, on the Big Island, explore the natural wonders of the world’s most active volcano.

Rates for the Hawaiian cruises start at $1,800 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Mexican Riviera…

The Disney Wonder is scheduled to sail seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles for the majority of the year – throughout winter, spring and fall.

Rates for the seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary departing from Los Angeles start at $707 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

The Disney Wonder will also sail four seven-night Pacific Coast cruises from Los Angeles (on Sept. 16, Sept. 23, Sept. 30 and Oct. 7), calling on San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico.

Rates for the seven-night Pacific Coast itinerary departing from Los Angeles start at $770 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

2012 Seattle Schedule

Beginning May 28, 2012, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 14 seven-night cruises from the Port of Seattle to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, and Victoria, British Columbia.

These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Disney Cruise Line works closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.

On their Alaskan adventure, guests can explore magnificent glaciers and fjords in Juneau. In Ketchikan, they can fish for salmon and learn about local culture through hand-carved totem poles. In Skagway, Disney Cruise Line guests can traverse panoramic landscapes by railway, or pan for gold like miners from the famous Klondike gold rush.

Rates for the seven-night Alaska cruise itinerary departing from Seattle start at $917 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Sailings depart May 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27.

2012 Galveston Schedule

Beginning Sept. 22, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail 12 seven-night cruises from the Port of Galveston to the Western Caribbean, calling on Grand Cayman and Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel.

A Caribbean cruise on the Disney Magic offers families a tropical getaway with world-class entertainment and impeccable guest service found only on a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Guests will enjoy three magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Magic and three days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop in exotic marketplaces.

Rates for the seven-night Western Caribbean cruise itinerary departing from Galveston start at $840 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Sailings depart Sept. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, Dec. 1, 8.

2012 East Coast Schedule

Sailing from New York …

Beginning May 25, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail a total of 20 cruises from New York – including eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coast to Canada plus two-night cruises that will give a sampling of the Disney Cruise Line experience over a weekend:

Eight eight-night Bahamas cruises will include a day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay; Nassau, Bahamas; and Port Canaveral, Fla., with an opportunity to visit the nearby Walt Disney World Resort.

Nine five-night cruises up the New England coast will call at Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick.

Three two-night cruises (June 15, July 13, Aug. 10) are perfect for a quick weekend getaway.

Sailing from Port Canaveral…

The Disney Fantasy will depart on her maiden voyage March 31, 2012, and will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries, with a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Pricing reflects category 11C standard inside stateroom, Government Taxes and Fees not included.

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Cunard's Queen Victoria Offers Winter Panama Canal And Hawaii Cruises

Whether guests are celebrating a special occasion or searching for a relaxing adventure closer to home, Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria offers both as the ship reprises her Americas Season in late 2011 and early 2012, which includes updated itineraries through the Panama Canal and voyages to the tropical Hawaiian Islands. Fares start from $1,295 per person, based on double occupancy.

This season, guests aboard Queen Victoria will revel in the luxury of time both on and off the ship, with stops that highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of the Panama Canal, Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mexico. Depending on the voyage itinerary, guests will stop at exotic locales including Costa Rica, St. Thomas and Honolulu:


15-day Panama Canal Explorer (new) departs on 6 December 2011 and 30 January 2012 from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles, and sails from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale on 4 January, with stops in Oranjestad (Aruba), Panama Canal transit, Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Huatulco (Mexico), Acapulco (Mexico) and Manzanillo (Mexico). Fares from $1,295 per person.

11-day Roundtrip Panama Canal departs from Fort Lauderdale on 19 January 2012, calling on Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas), St. John’s (Antigua), St. George’s (Grenada), Bonaire (Netherlands Antilles) and a partial transit of the Panama Canal. Fares from $1,295 per person.

17-day Panama Canal Treasures departs 28 February 2012 from Los Angeles, calling on Manzanillo (Mexico), Acapulco (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Panama Canal transit, Oranjestad (Aruba), Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas) and New York. Fares from $2,095 per person.

14-day Hawaiian Adventure departs roundtrip from Los Angeles on 21 December 2011 and 14 February 2012, calling on Hilo (Hawaii), Honolulu (Oahu), Nawiliwili (Kauai) and Lahaina (Maui), as well as a quick visit to Ensenada (Mexico). Fares from $1,695 per person.


All fares are based on double occupancy.

“We are pleased that Queen Victoria will winter in the Americas again, pairing the ship’s unique intimate elegance with some of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the world,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “From the Panama Canal, one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, to some of the most legendary islands, Queen Victroria’s Americas voyages are quickly becoming a new Cunard classic.”

The legacy of Cunard’s ocean liners lives on through Queen Victoria’s Americas Season, combining the brand’s legendary hallmarks with contemporary sophistication of the modern age to create a unique memorable voyage for each guest. Aboard Queen Victoria, guests can customize their itineraries according to their interests, with such activities as enjoying traditional afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters, attending a stimulating Cunard Insights lecture, rejuvenating body and mind at the spa, dressing up for Royal Nights themed balls, sipping cocktails in one of the ship’s sophisticated bars and lounges, or simply relaxing poolside with a good book.

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The “Islands of Aloha” have a special appeal as a cruise destination, and Princess Cruises is offering a choice of more than 50 sailings to the Hawaiian Islands in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons. These culture-filled cruises depart from both Los Angeles and San Francisco, offering time to relax on the open ocean combined with visits to each of the major four islands in Hawaii.

While at sea, passengers will experience a special “Aloha Spirit” program with Hawaii-themed activities, parties, menu items and learning opportunities. Whether they choose to enjoy an Aloha sailaway party, learn about local wildlife and volcanoes, or simply want to relax and enjoy the poolside Hawaiian melodies or an island-themed Movies Under the Stars selection, cruisers will find numerous ways to feel the Hawaiian spirit.

Included in the program are a number of hands-on ways for passengers to immerse themselves in all things Hawaii, such as:

Hawaiian language lessons
Lei making
Playing the ukulele
Hula dance lessons
Hawaii-themed culinary demonstrations
Kona Coffee tastings

Special in-port artisans will demonstrate traditional Hawaiian arts, including a special Ni‘ihau shell lei making presentations by artists providing a unique look at the culture of the “forbidden island.” While in Honolulu, passengers will also enjoy an entertaining hula show by children from one of the most-respected local hula halaus (schools). The onboard naturalist will also help cruisers identify local whales and dolphins with top-deck animal-spotting sessions.

Passengers will also dine on dishes inspired by Hawaii’s bountiful fare – including fresh fruits such as pineapples and mangos, unique fish and seafood, luau staples such as roast pig, and treats like coconut and macadamia nuts. Princess’ special Hawaiian food and beverage selections include:

Appetizers: Hawaiian-Style Red Snapper Ceviche and Caramelized Maui Onion Soup
Main dishes: Grilled Tiger Shrimp Kebabs with Mango Lime Relish, and Luau Pork with Apricot Drippings
Desserts: Coconut Haupia Pudding or Flourless Macadamia Nut Chocolate Cake.
Cocktails: Blue Hawaiian Punch and the Ultimate Mai Tai

“Our Hawaii sailings offer a wonderful way to enjoy both the spirit of the islands and opportunity to unwind with a leisurely ocean voyage,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “And our onboard programs will give them a true taste of Hawaii even as they sail.”

Hawaiian Islands sailings begin a new season on September 28, sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles through April 25. Golden Princess and Sapphire Princess offer 14-day cruises, departing on Wednesdays and Saturdays, respectively, to the volcanic wonder of the Big Island (Hilo), the capital city of Honolulu on Oahu, the beautiful beaches of Maui (Lahaina) and the lush Garden Isle of Kauai (Nawiliwili). Departures continue in the 2012-13 season between September 26 and April 24.

In addition, in 2012 Star Princess and Grand Princess will begin offering 15-day roundtrip voyages from San Francisco, also calling at all four islands. The ships will offer 10 departures between March 19, 2012 and April 25, 2013.

For those looking for a longer tropical vacation, a new 28-day Hawaii, Tahiti & Samoa itinerary offers the opportunity to sail not only to Hawaii, but also visit the South Pacific islands of Pago Pago, Apia, Bora Bora, Moorea, and Tahiti. These cruises sail roundtrip from Los Angeles aboard Sapphire Princess on October 20, 2012 and on Star Princess on March 26, 2013.

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Crystal Cruises Offers Group Discounts on Hawaii Holiday Cruises

Ultraluxe Crystal Cruises is encouraging family and friends to celebrate the festive traditions of the 2011 holiday season together with a sweetened Crystal Family Memories program for Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s holiday travel.

Friends and family groups of just five or more on Crystal Symphony’s December 21 Hawaiian holiday cruise round-trip from Los Angeles can enjoy generous holiday perks, including:

• · Free berth for a sixth guest
• · Free third berth for kids 17 and under
• · Pre-paid gratuities
• · $100 per person on-board credit
• · Professional photos of the group
• · $500 credit toward a shared “Private Adventure”

“The end-of-year holidays are a great time to share with loved ones,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president marketing and sales. “What better way to build memories than with a luxury Crystal experience where you can bond and pamper yourselves, yet pursue different interests and realize tremendous value during the prime season? “

The “Pacific Coast Holiday” visits tropical favorites Lahaina, Maui; Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kaui; Hilo, Hawaii; and Enseñada, Mexico. Christmas and New Year’s holidays will be celebrated at sea with opulent, all-ship soirees, complete with fresh mixologist-made cocktails, premium wines and champagne, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment and dancing. Christian and Jewish clergy will host Christmas and Hanukkah services, and Junior Activities Directors will lead children and teens in custom-crafted activities daily.

Two-for-One fares for the 14-day cruise begin at $7,050 per person, and include $500/person “All Inclusive. As You Wish” shipboard credit, plus free, round-trip air and airport transfer from two dozen North American gateway cities (or generous air credit). Groups of six must sail together in a minimum of three staterooms; other restrictions apply.

Crystal’s passion for taking care of guests in an inviting environment of extraordinary space, quality and choices has earned the company more “World’s Best” awards than any other cruise line, resort, or hotel in history.

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Celebrity Cruises Announces Hawaii and Australia Cruises

August 6, 2010 – Like the iconic boomerang believed to have originated in Australia, Celebrity Cruises today announced plans to return to the region in 2011-12, with an enticing new series of vacations on Celebrity Century.

“This marks a significant expansion of Celebrity’s diverse array of global vacation options,” said Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. “We’re thrilled to return to Australia and New Zealand. It’s a region our guests and trade partners around the world have said they wanted to experience again with Celebrity, pairing our award-winning dining, exceptional service and high style with the beauty, charm and diversity of the area. This move further exemplifies our ‘Designed for you’ platform, and how we fulfill what cruisers desire.”

Marking the line’s first return to the land Down Under in two years, Celebrity’s exotic new Australia and New Zealand season – bookended by a series of vacation options in Hawaii – features a total of 36 ports in six countries: Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, French Polynesia, the U.S. and Mexico. The lineup includes 10 distinct itineraries, with six varied departure ports, including Sydney and Perth (Fremantle), Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Honolulu, Hawaii; San Diego, California, and Ensenada, Mexico.

Celebrity’s new series begins October 2, 2011, with two consecutive 15-night Hawaii sailings from San Diego, followed by a 10-night Hawaii cruise from Ensenada to Honolulu. An 18-night “Pacific Jewels” voyage departs Honolulu November 11, followed by five 12- and 13-night New Zealand cruises between Sydney and Auckland, including a festive holiday sailing departing Sydney December 24. These offer a more destination-rich experience for cruisers, with only three days at sea, versus five on most competing lines’ itineraries.

Cruisers also have the opportunity to experience a rare, 36-night circumnavigational voyage – a first for Celebrity – through two combinable 18-night sailings: One will sail around the southern portion of Australia, featuring an overnight stay in Sydney and transits through three sounds – Milford, Doubtful and Dusky – in New Zealand’s World Heritage-designated Fiordland National Park. The second of the combinable 18-night sailings takes cruisers around Australia’s northern coast, and features a visit to the idyllic island of Bali, Indonesia – marking yet another first for Celebrity.

The new series also includes two tantalizing, 18-night Trans-Pacific voyages visiting the French Polynesian islands and Hawaii.

Among the ports Celebrity will visit for the first time are Geraldton, Broome, Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane, Adelaide, Albany, Bunbury and Perth, Australia, in addition to Burnie, Tasmania, and Bali.

To complement the cruises and allow guests to delve deeper into the land Down Under, Celebrity has created a series of cruisetour packages, with details to be announced when bookings open for the entire slate of vacation options on Thursday, July 29. Celebrity also will announce details of an early booking incentive on that date.

The 1,814-guest Celebrity Century is ideal for offering guests spectacular views of the scenic region, having been refitted in 2006 to add 314 new verandas, along with the elegant Murano restaurant and the truly “cool” Martini ice bar.

Celebrity’s new itineraries replace the previously announced series of 12-night Caribbean cruises from Baltimore on Celebrity Century. Guests with individual and group bookings that are named and deposited on Celebrity Century departing between November 1, 2011 and March 21, 2012, have the option to cancel their booking, or move to the same category of accommodations on a comparable Transcanal voyage on Celebrity Infinity, either October 28, 2011, or March 27, 2012; Celebrity Century’s Hawaii sailings October 2 or 17, 2011, or April 2 or 20, 2012; 10- or 11-night Caribbean cruises on Celebrity Equinox in 2011, or entirely new 12-night Caribbean sailings from Cape Liberty, NJ, on Celebrity Silhouette, the line’s fourth Solstice Class ship, entering service in 2011. Holiday sailings are open only to guests currently booked on Celebrity Century’s double-holiday voyage of December 23, 2011. Guests with applicable bookings who opt to shift to one of the eligible sailings will receive a $200 per stateroom or $400 per suite onboard credit.

Guests with reservations on the previously announced sailings on Celebrity Century from Baltimore in 2011-12 will be proactively contacted by Celebrity Cruises.

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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.