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SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 14, 2013) – Today Princess Cruises opened the books on its Americas program – including Caribbean, Panama Canal, Canada & New England and West Coast cruises. The new sailings include Regal Princess’ debut in the Caribbean as well as Royal Princess’ first cruises to Canada & New England roundtrip from New York. On the West Coast, new roundtrip sailings from Vancouver add another departure port for Hawaii and California Coastal cruises, and Crown Princess, the line’s newest ship on the West Coast, will offer its first full season sailing from Los Angeles.

In total, 11 ships will sail on 355 departures of 46 itineraries to more than 70 destinations. In the Caribbean, passengers can choose idyllic vacations from three to 20 days, with roundtrips from Ft. Lauderdale and Houston. West Coast cruises sail from Los Angeles, San Francisco and now Vancouver to Hawaii, Mexico, the South Pacific, and along the California coast. For the first time Royal Princess will take passengers to Canada & New England, becoming the line’s largest ship sailing on these fall foliage cruises, joining Ruby Princess, also new to cruising the Eastern Seaboard. And Princess will continue to lead the way in Panama Canal cruising aboard favorite ships Coral Princess and Island Princess.

“Whether travelers have just three days or are ready for a 28-day adventure, they can enjoy the Princess cruise experience from a variety of close-to-home departure ports,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “These North America cruises offer great opportunities to enjoy our newest ships along with some amazing destinations.”

Princess Cruises’ 2014-15 Americas program includes:

Caribbean – Five ships will be sailing the balmy waters of the Caribbean including, for the first time, the new Regal Princess offering the line’s popular seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises. Sister ship Royal Princess will sail on 10-day Caribbean itineraries for the first time, on both Eastern Caribbean Voyager and Southern Caribbean Medley routes, which can be combined for a 20-day sojourn among the islands. In addition, Ruby Princess will offer a season of seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean departures that can be combined into a 14-day vacation. Emerald Princess will sail on seven-day Western Caribbean voyages from Houston. Those looking for a shorter vacation option can choose from four- and five-day getaway voyages on Caribbean Princess to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. In total, passengers can choose from 204 departures on 16 itineraries to 24 tropical destinations.

West Coast Sailings – Four ships will take passengers along the West Coast and to destinations such as Hawaii and Mexico from three homeports – Los Angeles, San Francisco and now Vancouver. Grand Princess will debut two new roundtrip Vancouver itineraries offered both in the fall and spring, sailing to either the tropical paradise of the Hawaiian Islands, or along the California Coast – including an overnight stay in San Francisco. For the remainder of the season, Grand Princess will be based in Los Angeles sailing on 15-day Hawaii cruises. Crown Princess, Princess’ newest and most innovative ship on the West Coast, will also sail from Los Angeles for a season of voyages along the California coast, to Mexico, and on Princess’ popular 28-day Hawaii, Tahiti & Samoa adventure. In addition, the ship will offer a series of three- and four-day Getaway sailings. Golden Princess will also offer the shorter Getaway sailings from Los Angeles during the fall. Star Princess will be based in San Francisco, sailing to Hawaii, Mexico and the California coast. In total, Princess will offer a total of 104 cruise options from West Coast ports.

Canada & New England – Royal Princess becomes Princess’ largest ship ever to sail Canada & New England when it offers these cruises for the first time in fall 2014. With four departures from New York in September and October, the ship will take passengers on a seven-day itinerary to the New England ports of Boston, Bar Harbor and Newport and the Atlantic Canadian ports of Halifax and Saint John. For more time enjoying the fall foliage, Ruby Princess also sails for the first time to Canada & New England on the line’s popular 10-day Classic Canada & England itinerary featuring an overnight in spectacular Quebec City, and a new port of Gaspé, Quebec – an off-the-beaten path destination featuring a charming seaside village known for the picturesque Percé Rock. The ship will also offer a 12-day Colonial America & Canada itinerary between Quebec and Ft. Lauderdale. Passengers can choose to enhance their cruise vacation with cruisetour options featuring Colonial America sites or fascinating Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto and Ottawa.

Panama Canal – Coral Princess and Island Princess will once again lead the way in Panama Canal cruising with full seasons sailing through this wonder of engineering. Passengers can choose either a 11-day roundtrip itinerary from Ft. Lauderdale or a longer journey between Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles or Vancouver for the full-transit Panama Canal experience. Between them the two ships will feature 36 departures, to 21 destinations in the Caribbean, Central America and along the Pacific Coast.

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“Norwegian has truly raised the bar when it comes to entertainment at sea and that is why it was extremely important to me that Norwegian Getaway feature high caliber entertainment that will continue to exceed our guest’s expectations,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With LEGALLY BLONDE performing in the Getaway Theater, along with BURN THE FLOOR, world-class comedy by THE LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, magic in the previously announced ILLUSIONARIUM, THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE, and all of the other entertainment offerings, we continue our commitment on Norwegian Getaway to offer guests the best entertainment experience possible.”

Headlining the 787-seat Getaway Theater is the seven-time Tony Award nominated Broadway musical, LEGALLY BLONDE. Liverpool Confidential has called the show, “Kind-hearted, comical and camp, Legally Blonde ? The Musical is right up there with Mamma Mia! and Hairspray.”

LEGALLY BLONDE tells the story of Elle Woods who, after being dumped by her boyfriend, follows him to Harvard Law School to win him back. With the help of some new-found friends, she learns that it’s so much better to be smart.

The show opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 29, 2007 and closed in 2008 after playing 595 performances. The show was also one of London’s most popular West End shows, where it played at the Savoy Theatre and won three Laurence Olivier Awards, including one for “Best New Musical.”

In addition to being a bona fide Broadway hit musical, LEGALLY BLONDE is a global success and is currently touring in Australia.

BURN THE FLOOR
Offering shows in both the Getaway Theater and more intimate performances, dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR will dazzle guests with their re-invented ballroom dancing.

Beginning with, and maintaining all the wonderful traditions and the social history of the Ballroom dance art form, BURN THE FLOOR is a groundbreaking show, serving as a melting pot of styles, energy and excitement for today’s generation of dancers. It is Ballroom “supercharged.”

During the course of the show, the dancers perform all the Ballroom and Latin styles, including The Waltz, Cha Cha, Samba, Salsa, Rumba, Foxtrot, Quickstep,

Mambo, Tango, Swing, Jive, Lindy Hop, Viennese Waltz, and Paso Doble. The music is eclectic, from Swing and Waltz classics to J-Lo and Credence Clearwater. Two vocalists perform in many languages during the show, including English, Spanish and Portuguese.

The show premiered in London in 1999 and toured the US for the first time in 2000, including performances at Radio City Music Hall. After touring around the world, in a variety of countries, including Japan, Singapore and Australia, BURN THE FLOOR premiered on Broadway in 2009. Originally intended to be a limited run, the show opened to rave reviews in New York and extended its original run into January 2010, performing 193 shows. Already staged in more than 300 cities globally, BURN THE FLOOR is currently in the midst of its World Tour of the Broadway Production with dates in Holland, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and Japan, and will return to the US later this year before joining Norwegian Getaway in 2014.

Norwegian Getaway will feature multiple, specially-designed entertainment venues throughout the ship so that guests can choose from a wide variety of entertainment each evening of their cruise with choices to appeal to a broad audience.

LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP COMEDY AND HOWL AT THE MOON IN HEADLINERS
Headliners Comedy Club on Norwegian Getaway will feature top-tier comedians presented through the line’s new partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the world’s largest producer of live comedy. Levity employs over 300 artists nationwide each week, creating special events, original tours, and television specials with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Daniel Tosh, Amy Shumer, B ill Cosby, Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham, who is currently the most successful touring comedian worldwide. Levity packages and produces best-in-class talent for all live experiences, including premium comedy clubs, international comedy festivals, corporate events and large-scale arena and stadium shows. Levity will bring a new level of comedy entertainment on board Norwegian Getaway, offering 12 shows per week.

The world’s greatest rock n’ roll dueling piano show, Howl at the Moon, which received rave reviews on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway, will also be featured in Headliners on board Norwegian Getaway. This total entertainment experience features talented piano players who not only entertain the guests; they make the guests part of the show. The fun is centered around two baby grand pianos and a full out rock show with Howl’s entertainers playing the best music from 70′s rock to hip-hop for four hours per show. Howl at the Moon, with multiple locations across the United States, encourages people to channel their inner rock star, so guests should get ready to clap, sing, dance and howl.

Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to “get away” from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide.

To date, the company has revealed the ship’s groundbreaking design, including The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place; a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that create a whole new complex at sea and enhances guests’ connection with the ocean. Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will also open three dining concepts on Norwegian Getaway: Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian; Ocean Blue on the Waterfront and The Raw Bar, that were recently launched on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway’s New York -based sister ship. Norwegian Getaway will also be the first to have the GRAMMY® Experience at sea which will feature artifacts chosen and curated by the GRAMMY Museum® along with live performances by past GRAMMY winners and nominees, among others. The ship will also feature an all-new dining and entertainment experience, The Illusionarium. A first of its kind at sea, The Illusionarium will envelop guests in the fascinating world of magic, inviting them to experience the astonishing illusions of world-class magicians and supernatural special effects. In addition, every Norwegian Getaway sailing will feature a dazzling fireworks show in Spice H20.

The 4,000 passenger ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options, including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; a wide range of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa. Norwegian Getaway’s sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will begin sailing from her year-round home port of New York City in May 2013.

Norwegian Getaway will sail seven-day cruises from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean beginning on February 1, 2014, with ports of call including Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. Information on Norwegian Getaway’s accommodations and itinerary can be found at www.getaway.ncl.com. To book a cruise on Norwegian Getaway, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com. Comment on today’s announcement on Norwegian’s Facebook page at www.ncl.com/facebook.

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via Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. : Investor Relations : RSS Content.

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via Press Room | About Celebrity | Celebrity Cruises..

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                The Rockettes, Norwegian Breakaway’s Godmothers, will offer a variety of exciting on board activities for guests to enjoy, all themed around the renowned New York dance company              

Norwegian Cruise Line and MSG Entertainment today announced details of the Rockettes-inspired experiences that guests will enjoy on Norwegian Breakaway. The Rockettes, an illustrious thread in the fabric of New York, will christen Norwegian Breakaway on May 8, 2013 as the ship’s official Godmothers, further strengthening Norwegian Breakaway’s strong ties to New York. Even after the ship’s christening, the Rockettes will maintain a strong presence on all Norwegian Breakaway sailings through a variety of unique, interactive experiences. In addition, two Rockettes will be present on board during the first six sailings of Norwegian Breakaway, beginning May 12, 2013, and then on the first sailing of each month thereafter. The partnership with the Rockettes also includes Norwegian Cruise Line as the designated “Official Cruise Line” of the Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall, and as the “Official Partner” of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

“We are so honored that the Rockettes will christen our newest and most innovative ship and are thrilled that their presence will be felt long after the ceremony,” says Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We are confident that our guests will enjoy interacting with the one-of-a-kind Rockettes experiences that are available on board, just one more example of how this ship will truly bring the best of NYC to sea.”

Guests sailing on Norwegian Breakaway during the first six sailings or on the first sailing of each month will have the opportunity to interact with the Rockettes during their cruise through a variety of unique experiences. While sailing on board, the Rockettes will offer three meet & greet sessions with guests, giving an exclusive opportunity to take pictures with the legendary dancers dressed in their glamorous costumes. During the cruise, the Rockettes will also host two “Speaker Series,” events where guests will have the chance to participate in question and answer sessions and learn more about this renowned New York dance company.

Active guests sailing with the Rockettes can get fit with the dancers by participating in one of three morning fitness sessions hosted by the Rockettes in the ship’s state-of-the-art Mandara Spa and Fitness Center, as well as have the opportunity to learn the Rockettes signature choreography during one of three Rockettes dance classes. Special Rockettes-inspired classes, hosted by Norwegian Breakaway’s fitness team, will also be available for guests on all Norwegian Breakaway sailings.

Guests on all Norwegian Breakaway sailings will feel the strong influence of this legendary dance company, even when the Rockettes are not physically on board. Guests on all cruises are invited to explore the “Rockettes celebratory exhibit” located in Norwegian Breakaway’s library, card room and connecting corridor. This specially-designed gallery features a look at the glamorous Rockettes costumes, photos and videos of the Rockettes including performance during some the most prominent events in the entertainment landscape.

In addition, guests on all sailings can order a “Rockettini” cocktail, previously exclusive to Radio City Music Hall during Rockettes performances, from any of Norwegian Breakaway’s bars and lounges. They can also take home authentic Rockettes-themed merchandise, which is available for purchase in the ship’s shopping complex.

Those looking for a more relaxing treatment will have the opportunity to visit the ship’s Mandara spa to pamper themselves with one of the Rockettes-inspired spa packages, available on all sailings. This exclusive menu of treatments includes facials, deep tissue massages and conditioning hair treatments, inspired by the dancers. Guests will also have the chance to capture the glamorous look of the Rockettes with a Rockettes inspired “French Twist” hair style, also offered as part of the exclusive Mandara Spa packages.

While visiting New York City, guests sailing on Norwegian Breakaway can experience, an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at the Showplace of the Nation, Radio City Music Hall, home to the Rockettes, offered as part of the ship’s excursions after their cruise. As part of the tour, guests will have the chance to view Norwegian Cruise Line’s year-round display in Radio City Music Hall’s Grand Lounge, featuring an 11-foot replica of Norwegian Breakaway, along with information on the ship’s unique attributes, entertainment, dining, destinations and more.

From appearances on the Tony Awards, Project Runway, Dancing with the Stars and the Super Bowl Halftime Show to Presidential inaugurations, Fashion’s Night Out and the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square with Mayor Bloomberg, the Rockettes have always been seen as strong female role models through their inspirational attributes, unparalleled style and classic glamour. The Rockettes are the epitome of teamwork and the embodiment of the belief that “together we’re better.” Each dancer achieved their lifelong dream of becoming a Rockette through hard work, determination, dedication and dreaming big. As the stars of the annual Christmas Spectacular production, the Rockettes entertain more than one million people each year and have played to 75 different cities across the country with the national touring production.

Two Rockettes will sail on board Norwegian Breakaway on the following 2013 sailing dates: May 12, 19 and 26; June 2, 9, 16; July 7, August 4, September 7, October 6, November 3 and December 1.

Designed as New York’s ship, Norwegian Breakaway will bring the best of NYC to sea when she arrives to her year-round homeport in early May 2013, offering the high-caliber dining and entertainment options that New York is known for worldwide. To date, the company has revealed the ship’s groundbreaking design, including an open-air boardwalk, The Waterfront, and 678 Ocean Place; a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that will create a whole new complex at sea that enhances guests’ connection with the ocean.  Norwegian Breakaway’s entertainment will include three Broadway shows: five-time Tony nominated ROCK OF AGES; the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR; and CIRQUE DREAMS & DINNER JUNGLE FANTASY.  The famed comedy troupe The Second City, Howl at the Moon dueling pianos, and New York’s own Slam Allen will perform on the vessel. Norwegian Breakaway will also feature an exciting fireworks show on every cruise that will dazzle guests on the second to last night at sea each week, and will be the grand finale of a decadent 1980s-themed deck party.

Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will also debut his first restaurant at sea on Norwegian Breakaway: Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. Buddy Valastro, star of the TLC series “Cake Boss,” will open an extension of his popular bakery, Carlo’s Bake Shop.  The ship will feature a total of 28 dining options on board and an Ice Bar, which will be kept at 17 degrees Fahrenheit and feature New York City-inspired specialty cocktails, as well as ice sculptures of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and the Chrysler Building to pay homage to New York City.

The top decks of Norwegian Breakaway will feature the first Aqua Park at sea with five full-size water slides, including twin Free Fall slides, the first ever at sea, and a three-story sports complex that includes the largest ropes course at sea, a nine-hole miniature golf course, basketball court, rock climbing wall and more.

The ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship and 18 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa.

For more information on the incredible features and accommodations on Norwegian Breakaway, visit www.breakaway.ncl.com.  To book a cruise on Norwegian Breakaway, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030or visit www.ncl.com. Comment on today’s announcement on our Facebook page

Continue reading »]]> CELEBRATION, Fla. (April 26, 2013) — There’s an extra dose of magic coming aboard the Disney Magic, when the Disney Cruise Line vessel relaunches with new spaces, reimagined areas and exciting additions for the whole family. Guests will experience new adventures from stem to stern throughout their journey on the cruise ship that set the standard for oceangoing majesty and family fun.

From a new grand atrium lobby and a children’s area of “super hero” proportions to a three-story water thrill slide and a spa to stimulate the “Senses,” there are plenty of new and magical surprises in store for cruise guests. The ship features fun new experiences with Marvel characters – the first time Super Hero icons from the Marvel Universe have been introduced on a Disney Cruise Line ship.

“We have always been committed to reinvesting in our fleet and continuously making shipboard enhancements that elevate the guest experience,” said Karl L. Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “What we’re doing with the Disney Magic is yet another step forward in our commitment to delivering the absolute best family vacations at sea.”

“Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do,” says Joe Lanzisero, senior creative vice president for Walt Disney Imagineering. “Walt Disney was a master storyteller and knew how to engage people’s emotions into stories. Our job is to take what we learned from Walt and apply it to the experiences on board our ships.”

Here are some highlights of new “magic” in store for guests aboard the Disney Magic after the “reimagineering” transformation of the ship that takes place during dry dock Sept. 7-Oct. 10, 2013 in Cadiz, Spain:

A Grand First Impression

When guests board the Disney Magic, they enter the grand atrium lobby that is redesigned to be “elegant art deco, inspired by elements of the sea,” according to Lanzisero.

“Filmmaking is the history of our company and in film the ‘establishing shot’ sets the scene,” he says. “This is the same with the atrium, as we begin telling our story.”

The spacious and spectacular three-deck lobby features hand-tufted, custom-made carpet that dazzles in a palette of vibrant coral, blue and aquamarine seashell-inspired designs. The art deco atrium chandelier is inspired by rays of the sun and the glisten of the surface of the ocean. Opulent furnishings, a grand piano and giant portholes recall the days of early 20th century ocean liners.

The lobby’s centerpiece is a cold-cast bronze statue of “Helmsman Mickey,” ever-smiling and keeping watch as guests stroll past. The famed statue, which has stood in the atrium since the ship was launched, will receive a special makeover bringing new luster to its golden hue.

Disney, Disney-Pixar & Marvel Characters Join the Fun

Disney’s Oceaneer Club, open to 3- to 12-year-old children, is a completely re-imagined area that transports children to the magical realms of brave super heroes, adventuresome toys, fanciful fairies and Mickey Mouse’s club for creativity and fun.

With Marvel now a part of the Walt Disney Company family, this will mark the first time the Super Hero icons of Marvel have been introduced on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Marvel and Walt Disney Imagineers have created a new space for children to enter into the Marvel Universe.

Marvel’s The Avengers will make their presence known in an epic way aboard the Disney Magic, with Marvel’s Avengers Academy calling Disney’s Oceaneer Club its new seaward home. Young crime-fighters will be transported to a high-tech command post used by The Avengers for special missions and operations training.

Throughout the base, displays featuring some of the equipment that helps to make The Avengers the earth’s mightiest heroes – Iron Man’s suit of armor, Captain America’s shield and Thor’s hammer — inspire super hero “recruits” through their academy missions. Avengers Academy is a multi-day, immersive entertainment experience where children interact with Marvel characters and unleash their inner super heroes.

Adjacent to Marvel’s Avengers Academy is Andy’s Room, where stars of the Disney-Pixar “Toy Story” trilogy come to life in a multi-level space. Stocked with all of Andy’s favorite toys, the room features a larger-than-life Mr. Potato Head, a giant version of the lovable piggy bank, Hamm, and a Slinky Dog slide.

Next door is Pixie Hollow, the enchanted land of Tinker Bell and her fairy friends. In this magical forest setting, Tinker Bell’s teapot house serves as a costume closet and children can make crafts while sitting on stools shaped like mushrooms and acorns.

In Disney’s Oceaneer Club guests will find the Mickey Mouse Club, another new children’s area. Inside a room splashed with Mickey’s signature colors of red, yellow and black, kids can create crafts and play games on ear-shaped tables. The club also features Goofy Gears, an oversized activity where kids play with wacky, magnetic spinning gears.

But the kid-sized fun doesn’t stop there!

Disney’s Oceaneer Lab takes 3-to-12-year-old children on a journey of discovery, exploration and adventures. At this new pirate-themed area, children are encouraged to create, play and explore. An animator’s studio, a pirate workshop and lab lets kids get hands-on to create experiments and art projects, and Navigator Simulators let young buccaneers steer a ship through the mysterious waters of The Caribbean.

For the youngest cruisers — ages three months to three years — is the new It’s a Small World Nursery. Inspired by the style of Disney Legend Mary Blair, this whimsical world is a place of age-specific fun and discovery, with trained counselors.

H2…OH!

The upper ship decks of the Disney Magic have been redesigned for plenty of splashtacular fun, with waterful adventures that include a three-story water slide for thrill-seekers and a Huey, Dewey and Louie-themed toddler splash zone for smaller ducklings.

“From small children to teens to adults, everyone will have a space to have fun in the sun and water. We added more water play areas, dynamic slides, interactive elements for the kids, and more shade,” says Lanzisero.

Water thrills are found on the AquaDunk, a three-story body slide that begins with a surprise launch. Riders step inside a translucent tube and await the near-vertical launch that takes place when the floor beneath them opens like a trap door. The drop sends guests on an exhilarating, swift and splashy ride in a translucent tube that extends 20 feet over the side of the ship. Guests taller than 48 inches can enjoy the AquaDunk.

Guests can also soak in the sun and the water fun with AquaLab, an interactive water playground open to kids ages 3 and up. In the AquaLab, families can frolic among pop jets, geysers and bubblers in this fun and fanciful 1,800-square-foot space, while the Twist n’ Spout water slide gets them delightfully drenched with more than 250 feet of sliding fun of loops and turns. Twist n’ Spout is for guests between 38 and 64 inches tall.

Tots up to age 3 can play in the new Nephews’ Splash Zone, a splash-a-second area dedicated to interactive fun and starring Donald Duck’s mischievous nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie. The area features water play with pop jets, squirting figures of Donald Duck’s nephews and plenty of high seas hijinks.

Disney Dining With an Extra Dash of Pixie Dust

New restaurants and new technology are on the menu for the restaurants aboard Disney Magic.

Animator’s Palate, one of the most popular restaurants on the Disney ships, is updated with all-new, animation-adorned walls and larger high-definition flat-screens to provide the best views of the animation magic that takes place all around.

A heaping helping of entertainment is served up during the brand-new “Drawn to Magic” experience at Animator’s Palate. Throughout this deliciously fresh take on Disney Cruise Line’s much beloved classic dinner celebration, the restaurant’s black and white “blank canvas” explodes into full color as favorite Disney and Disney-Pixar characters, such as Rapunzel from “Tangled” and Remy from “Ratatouille,” come to life right before guests’ eyes.

On every Disney Magic cruise, guests will have an opportunity to experience the tremendously popular “Animation Magic” dinner show that celebrates the magic of Disney animation and allows families to create and participate in an innovative way. First unveiled on the Disney Fantasy, “Animation Magic” invites guests to create their own characters that magically spring to life, become fully animated and join the show onscreen.

The vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro creates an energetic atmosphere in Carioca’s, a new restaurant named after Donald Duck’s parrot pal in “The Three Caballeros,” Jose Carioca. Festooned with lighted lanterns, the restaurant is designed to be “fun by day, elegant by night,” says Lanzisero.

During the day, there’s a festival theme and, when night falls, the atmosphere transforms into an after-hours scene of Rio de Janiero, with city-side windows softly illuminated and lanterns flickering overhead. Carioca’s replaces Parrot Cay restaurant, currently on the Disney Magic.

Another new restaurant to the Disney Magic is Cabanas, a casual dining experience with food and beverage stations during daytime hours and a table-service restaurant during dinner. The Australian setting of the Disney-Pixar animated classic “Finding Nemo” inspires the décor with hints of the film’s fishy and feathered friends throughout the restaurant.

Cabanas, which replaces the current Topsider Buffet, also is expanding. More inside space is being added, increasing the total square-footage of air-conditioned area by nearly 3,400 square feet to more than 9,460 square feet and a total of 455 seats.

Disney Cruise Line’s popular Palo restaurant for adults receives a makeover with stylish fixtures, glass artwork and new stone floors. Red and white striped poles reminiscent of those found throughout the canals in Venice are a design feature.

The Fun’s Just Begun When Nighttime Comes

After a day of frolicking on the decks and out and about the ship, Disney Magic offers big city-style fun in After Hours, the nighttime adult entertainment district. An all-new lineup of clubs includes venues for dancing, comedy, music and variety shows. After Hours replaces Beat Street, currently on the Disney Magic.

“It’s our goal to create a sleek and sophisticated adult experience in After Hours” says Lanzisero. “Each of the three clubs has a different feel that complements the others.”

Fathoms night club is a celebration of the sea that utilizes special effects, lighting and sound to create different atmospheres from early evening to night.

“The ocean can sometimes be very calm and sometimes have some big excitement,” Lanzisero says. “That’s what we wanted to create with Fathoms.”

For guests seeking a more low-key nighttime experience, there is Keys piano bar and lounge. Whether guests want to relax with a cocktail and the soft sounds of a piano or “wind down” after an evening of dancing and revelry, Keys provides a refined retreat.

Pub days of olde are recalled in O’Gills, an Irish pub and sports bar designed with traditional decor. Live televised athletic events are on tap for sports-lovers.

Open Up, and Say “Spa”

For the ultimate in relaxation and pampering, the enhanced Senses Spa & Salon offers many indulgences. Redesigned with a sleek and contemporary style, this haven of personal harmony provides an unmatched ocean-view environment. The size of the spa is being expanded by 725 square feet, to a total size of nearly 11,500 square feet.

A new Smile Spa offers teeth whitening services, a new barbershop offers services for the gentlemen and the new Chill Spa provides treatments especially for teens 13 to 17 years of age.

Family Fun in the D Lounge

Another reimagined area, D Lounge, offers a variety of family-friendly games, shows, dances and activities designed for all ages. Colorful and contemporary, this space encourages creative and kinetic fun. Families can enjoy entertainment, game shows and activities together in D Lounge which replaces Studio Sea, currently on the Disney Magic.

Putting more “room” in staterooms

Disney Cruise Line knows that traveling families always need more space, so features are included in each room to provide more usable space. Bed frames are elevated to provide storage space underneath. The bathrooms include the split-bath feature that Disney introduced to the cruise industry — providing even greater convenience to guests.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

via Disney’s First Cruise Ship, Disney Magic, Offers Guests Brand-New Experiences and Reimagined Spaces | Disney Cruise Line News.

Continue reading »]]> Miami – Apr 23, 2013 —
Norwegian Getaway will offer families the ultimate vacation experience as the line announced that Nickelodeon®, the number-one entertainment brand for kids, will have a presence on its newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, when it sets sail from Miami beginning February 1, 2014. Guests sailing on Norwegian Getaway will have the opportunity to cruise with SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Dora the Explorer and Diego, among other favorite Nickelodeon characters; as well as participate in a variety of exciting interactive Nickelodeon experiences. Norwegian Getaway will include some of the popular family events, shows and activities that guests enjoy on Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Epic and soon Norwegian Breakaway, including “Name that Game” an exciting brand-new experience that will debut on Norwegian Breakaway.

Norwegian Getaway will be the fifth Norwegian ship to offer Nickelodeon experiences, and will offer the latest in Nickelodeon activities and events that kids of all ages will enjoy. Following its premier on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway will offer families the opportunity to experience the all-new “Name that Game,” an exciting combination of trivia, speed, skill and Slime, where participants will hit the buzzer, race the clock and get extreme as they experience the best of Nickelodeon’s famous game shows live on one stage.

Norwegian Getaway will also feature the popular Nickelodeon Pajama Jam, where kids have the opportunity to enjoy an action-packed breakfast experience with their favorite Nickelodeon Characters; Dora’s Dance Party, where kids will have the chance to sing and dance to their favorite songs with Dora the Explorer and Team Nick; Nickelodeon Character Meet and Greets; Story Time with Dora; and Nickelodeon Arts and Crafts.

The line also announced that the ship will feature an all new pirate-themed Nickelodeon Kids’ Aqua Park where children can cool off with colorful, whimsical and larger than life Nickelodeon characters from Bikini Bottom, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Squidward and more. The area will include a kid-sized pool and slide, along with multiple water features that squirt and shower guests with delight.

Nickelodeon characters and themed activities will also be featured in Splash Academy; the ship’s youth area offering merriment for kids ages three to 12. Like her sister-ship, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway features a centrally-located Splash Academy complex that spans two decks, 12 and 13. It is also adjacent and easily accessible to the ship’s family-friendly staterooms. The reception area, located on Deck 12, is in close proximity to the forward elevators. As parents enter, they will utilize Norwegian’s e-Youth tablet-based electronic registration which allows them to swipe their keycard and input a password to sign in their children. Just past the brightly-colored and welcoming reception area, the three to five year olds will have their own space decorated with vibrant, engaging colors along with child-sized furniture. Wall mounted activities will keep little hands busy in between organized programming. In a separate area decorated with fun graphics to captivate children’s imaginations, the six to nine year olds will enjoy building block activity centers. An interactive dance mat with corresponding large video screen will encourage lots of activity. In addition, a dedicated space houses popular video game stations, along with a relaxing video viewing lounge.

On Norwegian Getaway, children ages 10 to 12 years old will have their own space on deck 13. It will include a multipurpose visual dance space with a touch screen jukebox, plenty of moveable tables for activities and comfortable bean bags for lounging. An activity zone will include everything needed for arts and crafts and more. There is also a “hang out” area with dedicated gaming stations that will feature the latest video games. Rounding out the space will be a cool and comfortable lounge area with sofas and chairs in vibrant colors creating the perfect atmosphere to chill out.

Entourage, located on Deck 16, is Norwegian Getaway’s high energy, exclusive teen zone for ages 13 through 17. This hip, sophisticated area was designed to give teens their own funky space that includes air hockey; foosball; and an arcade center with five separate areas featuring large screens to play the latest video games while lounging on comfy sofas. In the evening, Entourage transitions into a teens-only nightclub with a dance floor, large screen television and music, including a video jukebox. Entourage has the advantage of being located next to the video arcade and a step away from an outdoor eatery and refreshment area to round out the teens’ experience.

Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to “get away” from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide.

To date, the company has revealed the ship’s groundbreaking design, including The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place; a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that will create a whole new complex at sea that enhances guests’ connection with the ocean. Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will also debut three dining concepts on Norwegian Getaway: Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian; Ocean Blue on the Waterfront and The Raw Bar. Norwegian Getaway will also be the first to have the GRAMMY® Experience at sea which will feature artifacts chosen and curated by the GRAMMY Museum® along with live performances by past GRAMMY winners and nominees, among others. The ship will also feature an all-new dining and entertainment experience, The Illusionarium. A first of its kind at sea, The Illusionarium will envelop guests in the fascinating world of magic, inviting them to experience the astonishing illusions of world-class magicians and supernatural special effects as well as a dazzling fireworks show on every cruise.

The 4,000 passenger ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options, including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; a wide range of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa. Norwegian Getaway’s sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will begin sailing from her year-round home port of New York City in May 2013.

To celebrate the excitement of Nickelodeon’s presence on board Norwegian’s newest ships and to give families to get a taste of what it means to cruise like a Norwegian, Norwegian Cruise Line, in partnership with Nickelodeon, is hosting a party in New York City. Norwegian invites families and kids of all ages to join them in Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall on Saturday, April 27, 2013 for a day of family fun. Families who stop by the free event between 11:00am-5:00pm will have the opportunity to play a variety of interactive games and activities, enjoy surprise Nickelodeon character appearances, win prizes and much more.

Norwegian Getaway will sail seven-day cruises from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean beginning on February 1, 2014, with ports of call including Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. Information on Norwegian Getaway’s accommodations and itinerary can be found at www.getaway.ncl.com. To book a cruise on Norwegian Getaway, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com. Comment on today’s announcement on Norwegian’s Facebook page at www.ncl.com/facebook.