Crystal Cruises 2013 Med Season Has Some Firsts

Crystal Cruises 2013 Cruise Brochure Features New Mediterranean Ports.

For its 2013 Mediterranean cruise season, ultra-luxe Crystal Cruises is making first-time-ever visits to Çanakkale, Turkey; La Spezia, Italy; and Castellón de la Plana, Spain.  The maiden calls offer new exploration of historic and off-the-beaten path areas from the eastern Mediterranean Sea to the west, including the Dardanelles/Adriatic, Italian Riviera, and Costa del Azahar.  The 7- to 13-day itineraries surrounding the new destinations also offer cultural capital overnights and extra port intensiveness.

Highlights of, and cruises featuring, the inaugural ports include:

·         ÇANAKKALE: A popular vacation getaway for local Turks, the harbor city also offers easy access to the archaeological site of Troy and Gallipoli’s historic battlefield and monuments.

Ø  May 9, Crystal Serenity -- 9 days: Rome, Sorrento (overnight), and Sicily/Taormina, Italy; Santorini, Greece; Kusadasi, Çanakkale, and Istanbul (overnight), Turkey

Ø  July 25, Crystal Symphony – 9 days: Istanbul (overnight), Çanakkale, and Kusadasi, Turkey; Valletta, Malta; Sicily/Taormina, Sorrento (overnight), and Rome, Italy

·         LA SPEZIA: Balcony-lined streets and a palm-lined promenade usher travelers into Italy’s Liguria region, offering a point of departure for walking uber-picturesque Cinque Terre, or a less-touristed day of sampling fine museums or delicious local cheese stalls in the town’s outdoor market.

Ø  Sept. 28, Crystal Serenity -- 7 days: Monte Carlo (overnight), Monaco; Genoa and La Spezia, Italy; St. Tropez and Marseille, France; Barcelona (overnight), Spain

·         CASTELLÓN DE LA PLANA: Dating back to 1251, this Valencian town is the capital of one of Spain’s most mountainous provinces, offering a range of rural tourism, a Gothic and Renaissance-architecture “old quarter,” and fragrant orange trees blossoming in the Fall.

Ø  Nov. 2, Crystal Serenity -- 13 days: Rome, Florence, and Porto Venere, Italy; Monte Carlo (overnight), Monaco; Palamós, Barcelona (overnight), Castellón de la Plana, and Cartagena, Spain; Gibraltar, UK; Cadiz/Seville, Spain; Lisbon (overnight), Portugal

“New adventures are part of Crystal’s signature travel experience, even in such a popular cruising area as the Mediterranean,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president sales and marketing.  “After sailing for more than two decades, we’re thrilled to still be finding novel destinations for our guests to discover, and combine them with much beloved locales to which they also love returning, time and time again.”

All-inclusive “Book Now” fares for the series start from $3,110/person, with up to $1500/person in savings if booked by December 28.

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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Princess Cruises Reveals Top Deck Features Aboard Royal Princess

Royal Princess’ top deck will feature the SeaWalk, dancing fountains and a larger Movies Under the Stars Screen

  Princess Cruises today unveiled additional details about the outdoor entertainment features that will be found on the top deck of the new Royal Princess, including the dramatic SeaWalk, the pool areas, an evening light show and a 30 percent larger Movies Under the Stars poolside theater.

The top deck features are detailed in the company’s latest video previewing Royal Princess, viewable at princess.com/royalprincess.

“We’re placing even more emphasis on our outdoor entertainment options with this new ship,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “With all of these exciting features on the top decks, passengers will truly enjoy their time under the sun – or stars.”

Among the new top-deck features of Royal Princess are:

Sea Walk – Extending 28 feet beyond the starboard side of the ship, the SeaWalk will be one of the ship’s most striking features. At 60 feet long and hovering 128 feet above the ocean, this dramatic glass-bottomed walkway offers unparalleled views available on no other ship. Just as the captain on the bridge can look through glass panels in the floor of the bridge to get a look at the sea conditions below, passengers will now have that same sense of stepping out from the side of the ship for a breathtaking experience. Across the ship the SeaView Bar also extends over the waves for cocktails with unbeatable vistas.

Fresh Water Pools – Directly adjacent to the SeaWalk on the ship’s expansive top deck area passengers will find a host of lounging options, beautiful palm trees, and two fresh water pools flanking an island area between them. During the day passengers can relax and rejuvenate poolside in a variety of seating options, including circular loungers, garden-style furniture, bar-height tables and stools, and chaise lounges. In the pool areas, entertainment options will include games and live music inspired by the ship’s ports of call.

Water and Light Show – At night, the top deck of Royal Princess will transform with architectural lighting effects to set the mood. The island area between the two pools will become a stage showcasing an interactive sound and light show featuring dancing fountains. With a sophisticated lighting and sound system, and a computerized fountain featuring 85 water jets, passengers will marvel as streams of water shoot 33 feet into the night sky.

Movies Under the Stars – Princess’ signature poolside theater will feature a 30 percent larger screen for true widescreen viewing, coupled with a high-tech visual and audio system for an unforgettable open-air movie-going experience. Passengers can enjoy movies, sporting events, and concerts while relaxing on a comfortable chaise lounge, complete with pillow, blanket, and free popcorn. For those who’d like to watch from the water, the ship’s large whirlpool spas above the pools offer great sightlines for enjoying Movies Under the Stars while soaking.

Evening Entertainment – On select evenings, the island will be transformed into an outdoor dance floor and will play host to the popular Ultimate Deck Party. Perched two decks up on a special balcony, a DJ will get the crowd moving with an energetic music mix.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is a new-generation ship currently under construction for Princess Cruises. Among the special features found on board will be a greatly expanded atrium, the social hub of the ship; a dramatic over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel; plush private poolside cabanas that appear to be floating on the water; the new Princess Live! television studio; a pastry shop; a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms. The ship’s 2013 maiden season will include cruises on the line’s signature Grand Mediterranean itinerary throughout the summer, followed by Eastern Caribbean cruises beginning in the fall. More information and video previews of the ship are available at www.princess.com/royalprincess.

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Something Different - If You Hit the Lottery.

Luxury Yacht - O'Mega - Available for Charter

I came across this site while surfacing the Web. Imagine chartering your own yacht in the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Travel with approximately 12 of your closest friends in the lap of Luxury. 

Some yachts offer pools, hot tubs, weight rooms, private marina's with jet skis and more. Elegant dining rooms and staff to address your every need.

You even get to choose your own itinerary!

The price to charter one of these luxury ships is approximately $625,000 per week.

If you would like to window shop or charter visit www.burgessyachts.com

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Carnival Cruises New Carnival Breeze Boasts More Than 180 Shore Excursions in Europe

Carnival Cruise Line's New Carnival Breeze

For the Carnival Breeze’s inaugural season in Europe, Carnival Cruise Lines has assembled a diverse array of shore excursions with more than 180 different choices, including several “select experiences” that allow guests to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in a more personalized setting. 

            Carnival Breeze’s inaugural European season kicked off June 3 and runs through October 25, 2012, providing guests with myriad opportunities to experience and explore stunning and beautiful ports in Italy, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, France, Spain, and Monte Carlo. 

           The wide-ranging excursions provide Carnival Breeze guests with a seemingly endless variety of unforgettable landside experiences, from guided tours of famous museums and centuries-old architectural marvels to touring the lush European countryside and savoring local cuisine and wine. Guests can also enjoy more active pursuits such as exploring dormant volcanoes, cycling or kayaking along a beautiful coastline.

            Here’s a sampling of some of the many exciting tours available:

• Three Island Yacht Cruise (Dubrovnik, Croatia) -- Island hopping has never been so much fun! On this five-hour excursion, guests can explore the stunning Elaphati Islands – Lokrum, Kolocep, and Lopud – while sipping chilled wine aboard a luxury yacht. The islands have a rich history – legend has it that Richard the Lion Heart was cast ashore here in 1192 after surviving a shipwreck while returning from the Crusades. The day begins with a visit to Lokrum Island, where guests can tour a 12^th century monastery built by Benedictine monks, while Kolocep, the smallest of the Elaphiti islands, is distinguished by 15^th century mansions, vineyards and olive groves. Concluding the tour is a stop at Lopud where guests can swim, stroll along the promenade, or savor local Croatian delicacies.

 

• Essence of Tuscany (Livorno, Italy) -  Guests can create their own “Under the Tuscan Sun” experience visiting the magnificent town of San Gimignano, the stunning backdrop for the popular book and movie about the fabled city which is distinguished by the "Manhattan of Tuscany," a skyline dotted with towers dating back to the 11^th to 13^th  centuries.  After enjoying a traditional Italian meal in a nearby farmhouse, guests explore Siena, amazingly rich in masterpieces of art and nestled atop three hills with ancient structures such as the Torre del Mangia bell tower rising more than 300 feet high and Duomo of Siena and the Battistero, both adorned with a variety of frescoes, sculptures and painting masterpieces created by some of the country’s most famous artists.

 

• Mt. Etna at 2,900 Feet (Messina, Italy) - On this seven-and-a-half-hour excursion, guests are taken to Europe's largest active volcano where they can tour Mt. Etna's famous Silvestri Crater located 2,000 feet above sea level.  From there, guests board a six-person cable car for the journey down into the crater before embarking on a 4 x 4 Mercedes ride to reach the ultimate peak at an awe-inspiring 2,900 feet above sea level.  Following an exhilarating off-road adventure, guests are taken on a guided tour where they are provided a detailed overview of Mt. Etna’s history followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

 

• Secrets of Naples (Naples, Italy) – During this five-hour journey,  guests can stroll along the narrow streets of the Spacca-Napoli quarter, full of life with boutiques specializing in antiques and books, tiny grocery stores and fruit stands.  The day continues with a visit to San Domenico Square and its namesake church, and an exploration of the underground caves of Naples, home to the ancient Roman Aqueducts.  No visit to Naples is complete without a sampling of the city’s famous pizza and guests will learn how to prepare the delicious pies using traditional wood-burning ovens.

           

• Vatican Gardens, St. Peter’s & Rome (Civitavecchia, Italy) -- The amazing Vatican Gardens and the beauty of Rome are on full display during this private 10-hour tour, which also includes a typical Italian lunch.  After arriving in breathtaking St. Peter’s Square, guests enter Vatican City through the gate of St. Uffizio Square where they enjoy panoramic views of its magnificent gardens and enchanting fountains before touring St. Peter’s Basilica. The day concludes with a tour of Roman highlights such as the Spanish Steps, Navona Square, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.

             These fascinating excursions – and dozens of others – are available in conjunction with Carnival Breeze’s inaugural European cruise season which kicked off with a special 12-day voyage that departed Venice on June 3, arriving in Barcelona June 15, 2012.  Ports of call on this one-time voyage include Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens, Greece; Izmir, Turkey; Messina (Sicily), Olbia (Sardinia),  Rome (Civitavecchia), and Livorno (Florence & Pisa), Italy; Monaco, Monte Carlo; and Marseilles, France.

            Carnival Breeze then begins a summer schedule of 12-day Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, one of Europe’s most stunning and historic cities. The program runs from June 15 through Oct. 25, 2012 (with the exception of the Aug. 26, 2012, voyage which sails from Venice).  The 12-day Mediterranean cruises include stops at Marseilles or Monaco; Livorno; Naples or Salerno, Italy; Dubrovnik; Venice; Civitavecchia (Rome), and Messina (the June 15 and Sept. 7 departures add a stop in Palma de Mallorca, Spain; while the Aug. 14 and 26 voyages also visit Olbia, Italy). Select voyages also overnight in Venice or Civitavecchia (Rome).  

            When they’re not exploring all the awe-inspiring wonders of the Mediterranean, guests can enjoy the Carnival Breeze’s wide range of on-board innovations, which include the line’s first Thrill Theater, an immersive multi-dimensional special effects experience that makes viewers feel as if they’re part of the movie, along with popular features such as WaterWorks, with fun water slides and attractions, and SportSquare, an expansive top-deck recreation area with a ropes course, mini-golf, an outdoor fitness area and more.  

            Exclusive to Carnival Breeze is Bonsai Sushi, the line’s first full-service sushi restaurant, and Fat Jimmy’s C-Side BBQ, an open-air dining venue featuring a variety of grilled barbecue favorites and traditional sides. Guests can also visit Guy’s Burger Joint, developed in tandem with Food Network personality Guy Fieri, or enjoy poolside libations at the RedFrog Rum Bar or BlueIguana Tequila Bar or Caribbean-inspired drinks and snacks at the RedFrog Pub.  

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MSC Cruises Offers Discounts Through June 30th.

MSC Cruises - MSC Fantasia

MSC Cruises is making it possible to visit Europe during the height of the vacation season and into the fall on its elegant fleet of ships – including the new MSC Divina – with limited-time-only rates that begin at $449.

Available only for bookings made by June 30, 2012 on select sailings, these special cruise-only rates (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional) begin at $449 for select 7-night summer cruises and at $499 for select 7-night fall itineraries.

While visiting some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, guests will also enjoy MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage and international experience with world-class entertainment, the exotic MSC Aurea Spa and Mediterranean cuisine on the line’s elegant ships, including MSC Divina, which entered the fleet in May.

Like sister ships MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, MSC Divina features the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, 69-71 suites (depending on the ship) in a “ship-within-a-ship” oasis of tranquility where guests indulge in comfort and convenience, complete with 24/7 Butler and concierge services, complimentary wines and spirits, private restaurant, lounge, pool and relaxation area, private access to MSC Aurea Spa and more.

On all 12 of MSC Cruises’ ships, guests will discover what earned the line Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Onboard International Experience.” Surrounded by elegance and white-gloved service, guests can be pampered with a Balinese massage in the MSC Aurea Spa, dine in the many restaurants featuring international cuisine, sunbathe poolside, gamble in the casino or enjoy the highly acclaimed entertainment in the lounges or the magnificent theater. For guests seeking more activity, there is miniature golf, swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard as well as a wide variety of excursions sure to satisfy the interests of all guests.

Among the roundtrip itineraries available this summer and fall at limited-time-only rates are:

• MSC Divina’s 7-night “Divine Mediterranean” itineraries, sailing from Venice and calling at Bari, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik. Rates begin at $1,049 (select summer sailings) and $599 (select fall sailings).

•  MSC Sinfonia’s 7-night “Sparkling Mediterranean Rivieras” departing Genoa and visiting Civitavecchia, Salerno, La Goulette, Ibiza and Marseille, beginning at $449.

•  MSC Splendida’s 7-night “Splendid Mediterranean” cruises, sailing from Genoa and calling at Civitavecchia, Barcelona, La Goulette, Valletta and Messina. Rates begin at $499.

•  MSC Magnifica’s 7-night “Baltic Castles & Russian Palaces,” calling at Kiel, Stockholm, Tallin, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen. Rates begin at $1,049.

• MSC Musica’s 7-night “Greek Islands in the Sun,” sailing from Venice and calling at Bari, Katakolon, Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus, Corfu and Dubrovnik. Rates begin at $499.

• MSC Opera’s 8-night “Majestic Medieval Europe” itinerary, sailing from Southampton and calling at Ijmuiden, St. Peter Port, La Coruna, Bilbao and La Rochele. Rates begin at $799.

Check Out the MSC Cruises Website for more info.

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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Royal Caribbean Nine Ships in Europe in 2013 (Down From 12)

Legend of the Seas Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International today announced that Legend of the Seas and Vision of the Seas will complete the cruise line’s Europe 2013 deployments, totaling nine Royal Caribbean ships in the region. Legend of the Seas and Vision of the Seas augment already announced U.K.-based Independence of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas, Barcelona-based Liberty of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas, and Italy-based Navigator of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas to offer vacationers a sum of 276 sailings to 88 culture-rich ports on 58 exciting Europe itineraries. Legend of the Seas and Vision of the Seas’ Europe 2013 season is open for sale.

            “Royal Caribbean offers families and couples the best cruise ships to create or renew a Europe adventure of a lifetime,” said Betsy O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “Nearly every ship will have undergone revitalizations and enhancements to offer vacationers the most innovative and modern fleet in Europe. Couple that with exciting itineraries to the must-see destinations and our friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service, you have a foolproof formula for an unforgettable Europe vacation.”

            In May and August, Vision of the Seas will alternate seven-night Norwegian Fjords and Scandinavia & Russia itineraries from Copenhagen, Denmark. The ship also will offer seven-night Scandinavia & Russia sailings from Stockholm in July. Two Ultimate Scandinavia & Russia itineraries each feature two overnights in St. Petersburg, one sailing on June 19 from Copenhagen on an 11-night itinerary that concludes with an overnight at Stockholm, and the second on July 28 from Stockholm on a 10-night itinerary that concludes with an overnight at Copenhagen. Additionally from Copenhagen, vacationers can select a 10-night British Isles cruise departing on Aug. 7, or an 11-night sailing on June 8 that ventures up the Norwegian Coast and beyond Latitude 66 North into the Arctic Circle.

             Vision of the Seas complements Independence of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas’ Europe 2013 sailings in the North Sea. Brilliance of the Seas also will sail the North and Baltic seas, but on longer 10- to 11-night itineraries from Harwich, England. Independence of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas will homeport at Southampton, to offer a wide range of itineraries to the Baltics, British Isles, Mediterranean and Canary Islands.

            Legend of the Seas divides its Europe summer between the homeports of Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice. From May through August, the ship sails a seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary, calling at Genoa, Italy; Provence (Marseilles), France; and Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and Valencia, Spain. A nine-night circumnavigation of the Italian peninsula, departing Aug. 31, brings Legend of the Seas to Venice, where the ship will offer vacationers a pair of 10-night Greek Isles and 11-night Greece & Turkey itineraries in Sept. and Oct.

            Legend of the Seas bolsters Navigator of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas sailings from Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice, respectively. Navigator of the Seas offers seven-night Eastern Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises, while Splendour of the Seas offers seven-night Adriatic and Greek Isles sailings.

            And from Barcelona, Liberty of the Seas offers vacationers five- and seven-night Western Mediterranean cruises and Serenade of the Seas offer a selection of 12-night Mediterranean Greek Isles and Mediterranean Venice itineraries. Liberty of the Seas exclusively offers the DreamWorks Experience, featuring lovable characters such as Shrek and Fiona, Kung Fu Panda, and the stars of upcoming Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, King Julien XIII, and Pengiuns Skipper, Kowalski, Private and Rico. Additionally, Liberty of the Seas will be the only cruise ship in the Mediterranean to feature Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in 3D in the ship’s main theater when the movie opens on June 8, 2012, as well as the only fully-licensed production of West End-hit Saturday Night Fever.

              Most every Royal Caribbean ship in Europe will have undergone revitalization and enhancements to offer guests of all ages the elevated standards of the cruise line, such as renewed staterooms with new flat-panel televisions, the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery for the youngest guests age six to 36 months old, bow-to-stern Wi-Fi service, an oversized LCD entertainment screen overlooking the main pool deck, a Diamond Lounge for Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members, and a Concierge Lounge for top-tier Crown & Anchor Society members and suite guests. Dining options also will be expanding and include popular experiences introduced aboard Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, such as Park Café deli, Izumi Asian Cuisine, Giovanni’s Table Italian trattoria, Chops Grille steakhouse, and an exclusive Chef’s Table dinner and wine pairing.

            Vacationers also have greater flexibility as to when they would like their Royal Caribbean Europe vacation to begin. For Liberty of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Legend of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas, vacationers have the opportunity to embark at a subsequent port on the itinerary. Guests enjoy the full itinerary, but in a different order of ports, round-trip from their port of embarkation. Vacationers can choose to embark Liberty of the Seas at Toulon, France, or Naples, Italy; Navigator of the Seas at Messina, Italy; Legend of the Seas at Marseilles, France, or Genoa, Italy; and Splendour of the Seas at Bari, Italy.

            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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Fred Olsen Features 2012 Summer Cruises.

Fred Olsen Line's Boudicca - Summer 2012 Cruises

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has just launched a special selection of cruises for summer 2012, offering great savings on brochure prices. There are sailings from a range of regional UK ports, to destinations including the Norwegian fjords, the Baltic, the Arctic, Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, as well as several mini cruises. All offer exceptional value for money, with prices starting from £64 per person per night, and savings on brochure prices of up to £1,500 per cabin. Guests booking two or more cabins at the same time may also be eligible for an extra saving of 10% on the ‘Specialsaver’ price.

Departure ports include Dover, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle, Greenock (Glasgow) and Rosyth (Edinburgh), with the PortLink coach service available from 42 pick up points nationwide.

Some sample cruises include :-

·         Black  Watch ‘Majestic Fjords’ cruise, W1212, a seven-night cruise from Dover to the Norwegian fjords, departing on 2^nd September 2012, with ports including Bergen, Stavanger, Flam and Eidfjord. Prices start from £629 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin (brochure price £819).

·         Boudicca ‘Waterfalls & Volcanoes’ cruise, D1216, a 10-night cruise to Iceland from Rosyth (Edinburgh), departing on 31^st July 2012,  that includes an overnight stay in Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital, and well as a call into the Faroe Islands. Prices start from £849 per person, reduced from £1,169, saving £320 per person.

·         Balmoral’s ‘Portugal & Spain with Barcelona’ cruise, L1213, a 14-night cruise from Southampton, departing on 11^th August 2012, with ports that include Gibraltar and Lisbon (Portugal) as well as vibrant Barcelona (Spain). Prices start from £1,079 per person, formerly £1,589.

·         Black Watch mini cruise, W1213, a three-night cruise departing from Dover on 9^th September 2012 and calling at Rouen (France) for an overnight stay. Prices start from £229 per person (formerly £339)

All prices are per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, Grade ‘I’ and include all meals and entertainment on board and port taxes.

These summer sailings represent amazing value for money, with all the meals served on board ship and the full program of onboard entertainment included in the price, as well as port taxes. For anyone who has not yet booked a summer break, they will find these prices very hard to beat, and there is a great choice of destinations and departure ports. 

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Crystal Cruises Offers Penthouse Discounts on Fall Med Cruises

Crystal Cruises Offers Penthouse Suite Discounts

View of Venice from your private balcony?  Check.  Butler inside your chic suite pouring your chilled champagne?  Check.  Saving money on the whole extravaganza?  You bet -- thanks to a rare Penthouse sale from Crystal Cruises, offering big savings on the ultimate of luxury Mediterranean sailings this fall.  Couples can receive fare reductions of up to $2,000 on select voyages, as well as Business Class air savings, if reserving one of Crystal Serenity’s recently-redesigned, multi-award-winning Penthouses or Penthouse Suites by June 30. 
 

Savvy travelers have a rich choice of Mediterranean cruises exploring coveted cities and lesser known jewels in Italy, the French Riviera, Spain, the Greek Isles, Croatia, Turkey, and Montenegro, as well as the exotic Black Sea (including Russia and the Ukraine), Holy Land, and Canary Islands/Iberia, from mid-August through November. 

 “This extraordinary sale offers superb value for a seamless, stylish, ultra-pampering resort experience to bucket list destinations overflowing with beauty, culture and history,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president of marketing and sales. 

All Penthouse stateroom categories boast a personal butler for complimentary packing and unpacking, pressing, and shoe shine service, daily hors d’oeuvres, fully stocked champagne, wine and spirits bar, personalized stationery, walk-in closet, larger verandah, and specialty restaurant room service from the likes of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, among other complimentary amenities.

Each port-packed cruise offer 11 or 12 days of all-inclusive luxury, with “Book Now” fares starting from $6,135 per person, double occupancy.   Guests can add on U.S. round-trip Business Class air for $3,200 per person — a $1,000 average savings off similar, self-booked airfares.  Additional savings are available for groups of six or more, combining cruises, and sponsoring of new-to-Crystal guests by a past Crystal cruiser.  

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. 

Carnival Lengend to Sail in Europe in 2013

Carnival Cruise Lines will launch its widest array of European itineraries ever with Carnival Legend offering an exciting choice of options, including the line’s first Norwegian fjords itinerary and its first extended program from the UK, as well as cruises to the Baltic, Mediterranean and British Isles, beginning in spring 2013.

Carnival Legend’s schedule will encompass 12-day voyages to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic departing from Dover (London), along with 12-day Mediterranean cruises departing from Venice, Barcelona and Dover.

In total, Carnival Legend will operate 17 European cruises between April 22 and Oct. 31, 2013, visiting 34 ports across 18 countries.

“For the Carnival Legend’s 2013 European season, we’ve assembled a truly outstanding collection of ports that offer our guests an exciting diversity of experiences, from viewing breathtaking Norwegian fjords and the lush Irish countryside to visiting centuries-old landmarks and exploring UNESCO World Heritage cities such as St. Petersburg and Tallinn,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.

Norway/Western Europe, British Isles Cruises Round-Trip from Dover

For the first time, Carnival Legend will offer an extended series of voyages from Dover (London) with 12-day cruises to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic, each offering a spectacular array of interesting and awe-inspiring ports of call, from quaint villages to cosmopolitan cities.

The program includes a “Norway & Western Europe” cruise offering a unique combination of ports, as well as the unforgettable experience of sailing the Norwegian fjords. The voyage will operate Sept. 1-13, 2013, and visit Alesund, Bergen, Stavanger, and Oslo, Norway; Hamburg, Germany; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

A “British Isles, Norway & France” voyage will depart Sept. 13, 2013, and feature stops at Stavanger, Norway; Edinburgh, Invergordon, and Glasgow (Greenock) Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

Six “Baltic Wonders & St. Petersburg” cruises will also be offered, visiting Copenhagen, Denmark; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight call); Tallinn, Estonia; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Departure dates include June 21, July 3, 15 and 27, and Aug. 8 and 20, 2013. The June 21 departure will visit Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium, instead of Amsterdam.

12-day Mediterranean Cruises

Several different Mediterranean cruises will also be offered, providing guests an opportunity to experience and explore some of the region’s most popular and picturesque ports of call and enjoy a wide variety of dining, shopping and sightseeing choices.

The schedule includes 12-day cruises from Venice to Barcelona departing May 4 and 28, and Oct. 31, 2013. On these voyages, guests can tour medieval castles, sample delicious local cuisine, and marvel at ornate churches and other historic architecture as they visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Livorno, Italy; and Marseilles, France. The May 4 and Oct. 31 departures also include Athens, Greece; and Izmir, Turkey; while the May 28 voyage stops at Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Carnival Legend will also operate 12-day Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona to Dover June 9-21 and from Dover to Barcelona Sept. 25-Oct. 7, 2013. These cruises offer guests the chance to sample all the region has to offer with extended visits to stunning seaside destinations in five countries, including Marseilles, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Livorno and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Malaga, Spain; and Lisbon, Portugal.

Also featured are three “Grand Mediterranean” voyages sailing from Barcelona to Venice April 22, May 16 and Oct. 19, 2013. These voyages feature stops at Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseilles, France; Livorno, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Messina, Italy; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, along with an overnight call in Venice to provide guests with ample opportunities to explore this world-class city. The Oct. 19 voyage will include a stop at Olbia (Sardinia), Italy, instead of Monaco.

Rounding out Carnival Legend’s 2013 Europe program is a 12-day voyage round-trip from Barcelona Oct. 7-19, 2013, with calls at Marseilles, France; Livorno, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Naples, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Venice (overnight call) and Messina, Italy.

15-Day Transatlantic Crossings in April and November 2013

Carnival Legend will operate a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Tampa on April 7 and arriving Barcelona April 22, 2013. Featured ports on this voyage include King’s Wharf, Bermuda; Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; and Malaga and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Following its European schedule, the ship will operate another 15-day transatlantic crossing from Barcelona to Tampa Nov. 12-27, 2013, calling at Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands; and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.

From Tampa, Carnival Legend will sail on a special four-day cruise before resuming seven-day Caribbean service Dec. 1, 2013. The week-long cruises call at Half Moon Cay; Nassau, The Bahamas; and Key West, Fla.; or George Town, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; Mahogany Bay, Roatan; and Belize City, Belize.

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Luxury Operator Azamara Club Cruises Offers Airfare Discounts and Upgrades on Select Cruises.

Recently recognized as having the best itineraries by Conde Nast Traveler, Azamara Club Cruises is inviting up-market travelers to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of Europe in 2012 with airfare credits of up to $2,000 per stateroom. Along with additional savings on cruise fares and shore excursions, plus included gratuities, guests will enjoy Azamara’s authentic hospitality on an immersive European adventure aboard the cruise lines two intimate ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.

“This is the year for up-market travelers to rediscover Europe aboard a destination-immersive Azamara voyage,” said Edie Bornstein, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Azamara Club Cruises. “Many of Azamara’s Europe voyages coincide with the continent’s most popular cultural celebrations, such as the Monaco Grand Prix and various European Jazz Festivals, and offer more overnight and late-night stays in port so guest can join in the festivities. Not only do we present extraordinary value to guests, but pay commission to our valued travel agent partners for many things, such as hotel, shore excursions and cruise tour bookings for their clients.”

Azamara Club Cruises recognizes the great value travel agents add to guests’ overall experience and offers agents in the fifty states and Canada up to 15 percent commission on cruise bookings and cruise tours, 10 percent commission on hotel stays, and ground transfers, as well as five percent on CruiseCare insurance when purchased through the cruise line. New for 2012, travel agents also can earn an additional commission of $25 per booking when purchasing air transportation for their clients through ChoiceAir, Azamara’s proprietary air booking system

For new individual bookings made with deposit through March 31, 2012, aboard Azamara Europe voyages in 2012, travelers can enjoy $500 ChoiceAir credit per guest, up to two guests, when booking an Oceanview-, Veranda-, or Club Ocean Suite- category stateroom; and $1,000 per guest, up to two guests, in a Club Continent and Club World Owner Suites. Furthermore, travelers receive double ChoiceAir credits on Azamara Quest’s April 4 voyage from Nice, France.

Year-round, travelers can take advantage of up to 50 percent savings off brochure rates and delve into the destinations that larger ships cannot reach with half off Land Discoveries (shore excursions) purchased online. More information about Azamara’s 2012 booking bonus can be found at http://www.AzamaraClubCruises.com/promotions/2012-pricing-program.

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 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 bus to city centers in ports, where available.

ChoiceAir is Azamara’s proprietary air-booking system, offering guests access to highly competitive airfares, more flight options and full control and visibility of their air arrangements. Guests enjoy exceptional, dedicated service that includes day-of-travel support to help them get to their voyage, even if they encounter flight delays or cancellations requiring a last-minute change or diversion to the next port of call. ChoiceAir is available through a travel agent, directly from Azamara Club Cruises, and online at www.AzamaraClubCruises.com/ChoiceAir.

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. 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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MSC Cruises Offers Discounts on Back to Back Cruises

August 2011 - MSC Cruises is offering special savings when you combine back-to-back 7-night Mediterranean cruises on MSC Splendida this winter for a memorable 14-night European experience with savings of 50 percent off the second cruise.

Cruise-only, Back-to-Back rates begin at $1,048.50 plus government fees and taxes (GFTs) per person, double occupancy. Rates are available on select sailings; certain restrictions apply. Bookings must be made by Sept. 30, 2011.

For that unique back-to-back cruise experience, guests can combine alternate Mediterranean itineraries (departing Jan. 7, 21, 14, 28 and Feb. 4, 18, 11, and 25). For example, sail the Jan. 7 and 14 cruises from Genoa, Italy to Barcelona, Spain; Valletta, Malta; La Goulette, Tunisia; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; Casablanca, Morocco; Gibraltar, Gibraltar; Valencia, Spain; and Marseille France. Rates for these back-to-back cruises begin at $1,048.50 plus GFTs.

Also available are back-to back cruises from Barcelona (departing on Jan. 8, 22, 15, 29 and Feb. 5, 19, 12 and 26) and Marseille (departing Jan. 6, 20, 13, 27, and Feb. 3, 17, 10 and 24).

Ask for the “SP Back 2 Back” promotion when booking. As with all MSC Cruises’ sailings, kids 11 and younger sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults.

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MSC Cruises Offers 2nd Person 1/2 Fare Special on Select Med Cruises.

August, 2011- MSC Yacht Club announces an exclusive, limited-time offer for discerning travelers to sail Europe. Available aboard the prestigious foredecks of MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia, cruise enthusiasts who book travel by Aug. 31 will reap the benefit of 50 percent savings off the cruise fare of a second guest staying in the same Yacht Club suite during select seven-night voyages through Nov. 6.

Perfect for family and group travel, rates begin at $2,969 per first guest and $1,484.50 per second guest in the same Yacht Club suite, inclusive of accommodations, $100 shipboard credit per person (maximum $200 per suite).

Take in some of the most intriguing locales in Europe, including Naples, Barcelona, and Marseille. MSC Yacht Club offers an upgraded cruise experience and provides a welcome ‘sanctuary’ amid a large ship cruise experience. Exclusive amenities and around-the-clock ‘perks’ of MSC Yacht Club include: Italian-designed suites; 24-hour butler service; 24-hour Concierge; complimentary wines and spirits while aboard, complimentary fine dining in a private restaurant; priority reservations at the MSC Aurea Spa; a private sundeck with exclusive Jacuzzi, swimming pool and a bar; and a private lounge with afternoon tea service served daily.

To book “Yacht Club 50% Off 2nd Occupant” promotion, please call 855-469-2582 or contact your local travel professional. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion, is subject to availability and restrictions apply. Government fees are additional for all guests and are as follows: Fantasia sailings departing: Barcelona, $78.45; Genoa, $64.19; Civitavecchia, $54.93; Splendida sailings departing: Barcelona, $76.69; Genoa, $62.44.

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Carnival Cruise Line's New Carnival Breeze to Sail in Europe in 2012

Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze, will enter service in June 2012 debuting with a summer schedule of 12-day Mediterranean voyages before repositioning to Miami in November for year-round six- and eight-day Caribbean departures.

As Carnival’s newest “Fun Ship,” Carnival Breeze will offer a host of exciting innovations, including expansive top-deck areas such as WaterWorks, an aqua park with exhilarating water slides and other attractions; SportSquare, an open-air recreation complex with a ropes course, mini-golf, and outdoor fitness area; The Lanai, a wraparound promenade with whirlpools extending over the ship’s sides, and a 270-square-foot poolside LED screen displaying movies, and other programming.

In a nod to its upcoming Caribbean deployment, Carnival Breeze will also feature the RedFrog Pub, a lively spot for tasty island-inspired snacks and drinks, including its own private label beer. Other dining highlights will include Cucina del Capitano, a family-style Italian restaurant that brings the heritage of Carnival’s captains to the table, along with a casual two-level poolside eatery, and a classic American-style steakhouse.

Dedicated play areas for children, ’tweens and teens, as well as a two-level health and wellness center, and a wide variety of accommodation options will be available, as well.

Carnival Breeze will also introduce colorful Caribbean-inspired interiors that take their cue from the region’s cool island breezes and warm tropical sunsets. Created by Germany-based Partner Ship Design, this striking new tropical design theme will be carried out in the ship’s public spaces, as well as staterooms which will offer a combination of bright colors and soothing pastel hues, with iconic images of palm trees and other island-inspired elements adorning hallway corridors.
“Not only will Carnival Breeze introduce exciting new features and a highly creative island-inspired interior design that pays homage to the world’s most popular cruising region, we’ve put together itineraries that provide our guests with the opportunity to visit a huge array of stunning ports of call throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.

Exciting 12-Day Mediterranean Cruises
Carnival Breeze will kick off its inaugural 2012 season with a special 12-day maiden voyage that will depart Venice on June 3, and arrive in Barcelona June 15, 2012. Ports of call on this one-time voyage include Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens, Greece; Izmir, Turkey; Messina (Sicily), Olbia (Sardinia), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Livorno (Florence & Pisa), Italy; Monaco, Monte Carlo; and Marseilles, France.

Carnival Breeze will then commence a summer schedule of 12-day Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, one of Europe’s most stunning and historic cities. The program will run from June 15 through October 25, 2012 (with the exception of the Aug. 26, 2012, voyage which will sail from Venice).

The 12-day Mediterranean cruises include stops at Marseilles or Monaco; Livorno; Naples; Dubrovnik; Venice; Civitavecchia (Rome), and Messina (the June 15 and September 7 departures add a stop in Palma de Mallorca, Spain; while the Aug. 14 and 26 voyages also visit Olbia (Sardinia), Italy. Select voyages also overnight in Venice or Rome (Civitavecchia).

Each of these ports offer a diverse array of sightseeing experiences, from world-class museums, shops and restaurants to famous historical landmarks, unique architecture and cultural opportunities not found anywhere else in the world.

Value-Packed 15-Day Trans-Atlantic Crossing

Following its European schedule, Carnival Breeze will sail on a 15-day trans-Atlantic crossing departing Barcelona November 6, arriving in Miami on November 21, 2012.

Ports of call on this voyage will include Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; Antigua and St. Maarten.

The combination of popular European and Caribbean ports with multiple sea days and a host of exciting and unique on-board events and activities will make this transatlantic crossing truly an unforgettable experience.

Convenient Six-Day Caribbean Schedule from Miami

As part of its innovative Miami-based cruise schedule, Carnival Breeze will offer a year-round three-port, six-day cruise program operating Sundays-Saturdays beginning December 2, 2012.

This schedule will be offered on alternating weeks and will feature visits to three popular ports of call: Grand Turk, B.W.I.; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Nassau, The Bahamas.

Although uniquely different, each of these destinations feature beautiful white-sand beaches, excellent shopping, dining and sightseeing experiences, and a wide variety of water sports opportunities, along with a laid-back island ambiance that embodies the essence of a Caribbean cruise.

Port-Intensive Eight-Day Itineraries From Miami

Expanding upon its role as the leader in Caribbean cruising, Carnival Breeze will offer two distinctly different four-port, eight-day itineraries year-round from the Port of Miami operating Saturday-Sunday beginning November 24, 2012.

Each of the Carnival Breeze’s eight-day cruises from Miami will provide guests with ample opportunities to sample the best that the Caribbean has to offer, from sunning and relaxing on gorgeous beaches to shopping for duty-free bargains and savoring delectable island cuisine.

The Saturday-to-Sunday rotation is particularly attractive as it maximizes consumers’ vacation time, with eight full days of cruising across two weekends.

The schedule includes an eight-day southern Caribbean itinerary that will feature Grand Turk, La Romana (Dominican Republic), Curacao, and Aruba, along with an eight-day eastern Caribbean route visiting St. Thomas/St. John, Antigua, Tortola and Nassau.

Combined with its six-day cruises, Carnival Breeze guests are offered unprecedented opportunities to visit a diversity of sunny, tropical Caribbean’s destinations, with nearly a dozen ports of call featured among the various itineraries.

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Saga Cruises' Saga Sapphire Cruises Available for Purchase

Saga Cruises will be introducing their new Saga Sapphire in March, 2012. The Saga Sapphire which will undergoing a multimillion dollar refit, started its life as the Europa (of 1982) for Hapag-Lloyd; later sailed as the SuperStar Europe and SuperStar Aires for Asia's Star Cruises; Holiday Dream for Pullmantur; and most recently as the Bleu de France for CDF Croisières de France.

The Saga Sapphire was built for the exclusive, luxury market and is a favorite among cruise enthusiasts. The Saga Cruises refit of the Saga Sapphire will definitely enhance the ship.
Work expected to be completed includes:

• Extensive renovations to the public spaces and cabins.
• 16 Cabins on deck 10 will be retrofitted with private balconies.
• The Observation Lounge will be transformed into the Drawing room which will feature laptops and PCs for use.
  
• An outdoor cinema screen is expected to be added.
• An alternative Asian Fusion Restaurant will be added.
• Passenger Capacity will be reduced from 1,500 to approximately 710 passengers.
  

On March 26, 2012, the Saga Sapphire, will undertake a 23 Night cruise departing Southampton to Atlantic European Ports and the Mediterranean. Below is the itinerary map.


Saga Cruises caters to cruise passengers over 50 years of age and offers traditional ships and world wide itineraries.



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Carnival Magic Offers a Number of Firsts to the Carnival Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line has just introduced the new Carnival Magic. The ship features a number of firsts for the cruise line including the new SportSquare. The SportSquare is an outdoor recreation areas which consists of the SkyCourse - a 230 foot rope course suspended above the deck. The SkyCourse proved very popular during the ship's introduction and can handle over 1,400 people per day.

The second area on the Carnival Magic is the SkyCourt which provides a large screened in area where passengers can play basketball, volleyball or football. On-board the Carnival Magic, passengers can play during free time play or take part in orchestrated completions.

There also is the SkyFit which is an outdoor weight training area and miniature golf course.

The WaterWorks Area on the Carnival Magic is also a family favorite with it's PowerDrencher. This mini outdoor water-park has an over sized bucket that can hold 300 gallons of water and tips over on bathers below every few minutes. The kids were having a blast.

For those looking for an inside activity, there is Carnival's first Pub at sea - the Red Frog Pub. The Pub is exclusive to the Carnival Magic. The Red Frog has a Caribbean theme and has it own signature beer - the Thirsty Frog Red Beer. In the spirit of the finest pubs found around the world, passengers are able to play darts, checkers and chess. The food in the Red Frog Pub is available at an extra fee.

The Carnival Magic has a new specialty restaurant on-board - the Cucina del Capitano- which offers Italian Specialties served family style.

The Carnival Magic brings many new experiences to cruise passengers and if successful, we may see these features retrofitted on other ships in the fleet.

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SeaDream Yachting through Four Countries in Ten Days

SeaDream yacht club takes an exciting 10-day Mediterranean voyage through four countries this May. Embark SeaDream II, the intimate, 112-guest mega-yacht in Civitavecchia ( Rome ), Italy on May 18th and set off for the southern tip of the island of Corsica, France spending an overnight in Bonifacio. Stroll the cobblestone streets and discover the medieval old town perched spectacularly atop cliffs. The voyage continues on to nearby Sardinia, Italy with the harbor of Porto Rotondo playing host to SeaDream and other beautiful yachts belonging to the international jet set.

Following Sardinia, the voyage calls on Sicily, Italy . Here the port of Trapani is the gateway to numerous historic, gastronomic and natural attractions. Guests have access to explore beautiful medieval towns including Erice. The third country on this adventure is Tunisia where SeaDream II docks in La Goulette; the port of Tunis and the capital of Tunisia . A walk through the Souk is a feast for the senses with spices, perfumes, jewels and carpet weavers. The fourth country of call is Malta and it’s port of Valletta ; Malta ’s capital and a World Heritage site. It’s nothing short of an open-air museum. Valletta is often described as the most beautiful harbor in the Mediterranean .

Next, spend a day in Syracuse, Sicily where guests have the unique opportunity to visit an active wine farm belonging to Baron Pietro Beneventano del Bosco. Delve into the rich sampling of homemade Sicilian specialties provided by the Baron. The yacht sails the Aeolian Islands which are a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea . SeaDream stops at Lipari, an island known for its beautiful beaches and mild climate. Sailing by the island of Stromboli , view the activity from its three live volcanoes.

A trip to Italy ’s coast is not complete without visiting Amalfi and Capri , the last two calls of this voyage. Amalfi is noted for its peaceful beaches, historic resorts and succulent lemons. Nearby, Capri is an island of lush vegetation atop rocks, amid the deep blue sea. The two towns, Capri and Anacapri are separated by curving, twisting roads making for fun ride in a convertible car arranged by SeaDream. This Voyage, #21125 concludes in Civitavecchia ( Rome ) on May 28th. Visit www.SeaDream.com

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