Jun 11

Royal Caribbean International Introduces Voyager of the Seas to China in 2012

 
 

Michael Bayley, executive vice president of International for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., and Dr. Zinan Liu, group managing director for China and Asia, revealed that Royal Caribbean International will deploy the 3,114-guest Voyager of the Seas to Shanghai, China in June 2012. Offering a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from four nights to 10 nights, the move is designed to offer exciting new cruise experiences to Chinese vacationers, as well as attract cruise guests from around the world to visit China and sail around Asia.

“There are clear opportunities in the China market, a key area for Royal Caribbean International’s global development,” says Adam Goldstein, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “Our brand’s strategy for China is to leverage Royal Caribbean International’s leading position in the market by offering innovative ships and customized services. And we look forward to working with our travel partners and helping to grow the cruise economy in China.”

Voyager of the Seas will be double the size of any cruise ship operating in China, and in the Asia-Pacific region — weighing in at nearly 150,000 gross registered tons and more than double the size of Legend of the Seas. Spanning 11 guest decks and with 1,556 staterooms, the ship will come to Shanghai from Europe and offer a variety of sailings to ports in Japan and Korea until August, including Fukuoka and Kobe in Japan, and Busan and Jeju in Korea. Voyager of the Seas will depart for Sydney, Australia in October.

“Customer demand for our brand has been very strong in China,” says Bayley, “We are excited to be able to bring such an innovative ship to the China market in 2012.” For more than 40 years, Royal Caribbean International has been providing vacationers incredible cruise experiences, constantly pushing the limits of what is possible with its innovative ships, exciting destinations, countless onboard activities, award-winning entertainment, delectable dining and its signature Gold Anchor Service.

“This is a major step forward for the cruise industry in China. We will continue working with the Chinese ports and our travel partners to further develop the country’s overall cruise economy,” says Dr. Zinan.

“Along with Michael Bayley, we’ve been meeting with various agencies and officials on playing an active role in the development of home ports for international cruise ships. There’s also the need to build necessary support facilities, including bonded warehouses and distribution centers. Our aim is to support cities like Shanghai, Tianjin, Hong Kong and Xiamen, to grow into world class cruise tourist destinations.”

Underscoring the significance of the growing Chinese cruise economy and established desire to sail with Royal Caribbean International, Legend of the Seas will also return to Shanghai in March 2012 for its fourth season. For the two ships, work is underway to offer a wider variety of tailored onboard products to Chinese guests, including more Chinese language services, authentic Chinese food and culturally appropriate recreational activities and duty-free items.

When she sails into Shanghai in June 2012, Voyager of the Seas will introduce several unique concepts never before seen at sea in Asia:

  • Royal Promenade – an indoor “main street” stretching nearly the full length of the middle of the ship, lined with places to eat, drink, shop and be entertained. Guests can stroll up and down the 4-story street and enjoy regular street parades.
  • “Studio B” Ice Rink – an ice skating rink for guests that doubles as a sensational 700-seat venue for ice show productions with world-class figure skaters.
  • Eleven dining venues include specialty restaurant “Portofino” for classic Italian fine dining and 50s inspired American diner “Johnny Rockets”. But Voyager’s most stunning eatery is the grand three-story, 1,919-seat main dining room.
  • Unparalleled sports facilities including an Inline skating track, Royal Caribbean‘s signature rock-climbing wall, a 9-hole mini golf course, a golf simulator, a full size sports court with basketball court, three swimming pools and six whirlpools.

 

There’s also the cruise line’s signature Viking Crown Lounge, the Schooner Bar, Casino Royale, a 1,400-square meter Voyager Day Spa & Fitness Center, and complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program, where kids of all ages engage in age-appropriate fun as well as educationally enriching activities. In addition to a fabulous range of activities, the ship offers conference facilities which provide the ideal environment for corporate meetings.

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

May 23

Disney Fantasy Atrium Lobby Will Dazzle Guests with Art Nouveau Style and Sophistication « Disney Parks Blog

Differing from the Art Deco style of the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy lobby is inspired by Art Nouveau patterns – showcasing hues of vibrant blue, green, pink and gold that lend to the overall sophistication of this splendid space. A cascading chandelier made of stained glass and crystal beads illuminates the area from above.

Glamorous and graceful design elements are apparent throughout the Art Nouveau-inspired atrium lobby on the Disney Fantasy.

Each of our ships feature a statue of a Disney character cast in bronze. On the Disney Fantasy, the atrium statue is none other than Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse! Inspired by travel of the 1920s and 1930s, Minnie is dressed in vintage fashion with a parasol and steamer luggage at her side. Here’s a shot of Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse while still in development. Check it out…

Mademoiselle Minnie Mouse serves to welcome guests as they enter the atrium lobby of the Disney Fantasy.

You’ll be able to enter the newly designed Royal Court restaurant from the atrium lobby. The elegance continues once inside this beautiful dining room that draws inspiration from the classic Disney films “Cinderella,” “Snow White,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Sleeping Beauty.”

Royal Court on the Disney Fantasy is full of ornate details, and is adorned with dazzling décor inspired by Disney princesses.

Disney Fantasy Atrium Lobby Will Dazzle Guests with Art Nouveau Style and Sophistication « Disney Parks Blog.

May 22

New program in Celebrity Silhouette’s Art Studio to bring out guests’ “inner artist”

Celebrity Cruises Partners With ArtCenter/South Florida to Offer Creative, Interactive Program Led by Master Artists
New program in Celebrity Silhouette’s Art Studio to bring out guests’ “inner artist” MIAMI, May 9, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ —

Celebrity Cruises has long been recognized for its vast, exceptional collection of contemporary art. With hundreds of original works by both recognized and emerging artists exhibited on every ship in the fleet, and the recent introduction of self-guided tours on an iPad(TM), Celebrity aims to offer guests who appreciate art ample opportunities to enjoy it. And now, the line is offering an opportunity for guests to create original works of their own, within one of the entirely new venues on Celebrity Silhouette, “The Art Studio.”

Located within the distinctive Lawn Club area on the top deck of Celebrity’s newest ship, The Art Studio will offer guests a wide variety of lectures, demonstrations and interactive classes ranging from jewelry creation to sketching to painting, all led by master artists, through Celebrity’s new partnership with ArtCenter/South Florida.

When Celebrity Silhouette debuts in July of this year, and throughout the ship’s European season, guests will have the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions with two master artists sourced through the brand’s new partnership with ArtCenter/South Florida: Leslie LaCombe and Armando Droulers.

  • Leslie LaCombe worked in the art departments of film and television for many years. She then studied silver jewelry design with accomplished artist Billy King in Mexico, and soon found her work on display at a prominent local gallery. She has traveled extensively in Southeast Asia, India and Europe, with the various cultures inspiring many of her works. Today, LaCombe resides in Miami, teaches at ArtCenter/South Florida, and continues to produce handcrafted precious stone and metal jewelry in her studio located on Miami‘s famed South Beach.
  • Armando Droulers is an art historian, artist and educator who studied at Bard College, Academia de Arte Federico Brandt, New World School of the Arts, and the University of South Florida. He lectures extensively on art and culture, and also organizes art tours and cultural events across the globe. Droulers has lived in Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and the U.S., and speaks fluent English, Spanish and French. On Celebrity Silhouette, Droulers will teach drawing, watercolor and collage classes, offer presentations on the history and art of the destinations the ship visits, and will lead art and wine lectures in the ship’s sophisticated CellarMasters wine bar, and sketching courses in various ports of call.

 

Celebrity Silhouette is one of five sleek Celebrity ships offering premium vacation options in Europe this year, from six cosmopolitan departure ports. CelebritySilhouette sets sail in July, enhancing guests’ precious vacation time with a host of industry-first venues and experiences within The Lawn Club. In addition to The Art Studio, the new venues include the interactive “Lawn Club Grill,” where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with Celebrity’s expert chefs, or have them cooked to order; the relaxing, private, wi-fi-equipped cabanas called “The Alcoves,” and “The Porch,” a breezy, casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and captivating views of the sea and the ship’s lush lawn. Celebrity Silhouette also will present another entirely new venue, “The Hideaway,” an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house.

Opened in 1984, ArtCenter/South Florida is an established access point for well-known and emerging artists and curators. As a Miami-Dade, Florida-based non-profit, the mission is to advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual art and culture in the Miami-Dade area. The educational branch offers 125 classes annually for all skill levels, provides summer Art Camp for Kids and is involved in extensive community outreach. Its Lincoln Road location in Miami affords the Center and all of its programs a high level of visibility.

Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of the world’s top-rated premium cruise line, with spacious, stylish interiors; dining experiences elevated to an art form; personalized service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 2:1; unexpected, trendsetting onboard activities, all designed to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity sails to Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. One of the fastest-growing major cruise lines, Celebrity’s fleet currently consists of nine ships, with two additional Solstice Class ships scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Silhouette in July 2011, and Celebrity Reflection in Fall 2012. For more information, dial 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com or call your travel agent.

via Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. : Investor Relations : Press Releases.

May 22

Fantastic Experiences Await Guests on the Disney Fantasy: New Details Revealed Today « Disney Parks Blog

With the Disney Fantasy, guests will have a full seven days to explore every nook and cranny of the ship. The Fantasy will bring to life many of the same innovative features and guest favorites from the Disney Dream, including the AquaDuck water coaster, Magical Portholes inside the staterooms and Enchanted Art throughout the ship. In addition, I want to share some new design elements and experiences that will give the Fantasy an identity all its own.

One of my favorite new highlights is “Animation Magic” at Animator’s Palate. This is a dinner show that celebrates the magic of Disney animation and allows families to participate in a unique new way. Everyone will be a “guest animator,” as they will be invited to draw a character of their own using a simple template on their placemat. Later, these sketches will be revealed on several large screens along the walls to join in an animated sequence with beloved Disney characters. Check out this photo that illustrates some of the magic that will dazzle guests during their dining experience.

During “Animation Magic” on the Disney Fantasy, Mickey Mouse stops by guests’ tables to surprise them by making their drawings come to life.

Adults – another new element aboard the Disney Fantasy is just for you…it’s a nighttime entertainment district called Europa. Guests 18 and older can escape and enjoy a collection of sophisticated bars and trendy lounges inspired by European travel. La Piazza is themed after Italian cities and their decorative outdoor plazas. Skyline is a chic bar that provides birds-eye views of stunning European city skylines that transform from day to night. O’Gill’s Pub is a rollicking Irish bar with modern day twists. Ooh La La is inspired by an elegant French boudoir adorned with velvet tufted walls. And finally, The Tube transports guests to a vibrant metropolitan club via the London Underground. Here’s a sneak peek…

Inside The Tube aboard the Disney Fantasy, adult guests are transported to a vibrant metropolitan club.

We also have a new surprise that will delight our younger cruisers – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! At this very special salon, aspiring young princesses and pirates receive the full fairy tale treatment with pixie-dusted and piratical makeovers. After making their royal entrance, young princesses-to-be are greeted by their very own Fairy Godmother-in-training, who will transform them with the most magical makeovers you can imagine.

Young cruisers can enjoy magical makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique on the Disney Fantasy.

And on pirate party nights aboard the Disney Fantasy, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique becomes a buccaneer’s dream – Pirate’s League, where we can help guests of all ages prepare for a swashbuckling evening with beards and bandanas, swords and scars, earrings and eye patches and more. If you like dressing up for the occasion, you arrrr going to love this place!

This is only a small sampling of what you can look forward to on the Disney Fantasy – there’s so much more that I can’t wait to share with you. Stay tuned as we continue to unveil additional details!

via Fantastic Experiences Await Guests on the Disney Fantasy: New Details Revealed Today « Disney Parks Blog.

May 06

Disney Wonder Cruises Through Tracy Arm Fjord During Inaugural Alaskan Voyage

Yesterday, I saw one of the most breathtaking sights I’ve ever witnessed as the Disney Wonder sailed past glaciers at the Tracy Arm Fjord during her first-ever Alaskan voyage. Nestled between 3,000-foot high granite walls, the narrow, twisting slice of ocean called Tracy Arm Fjord weaves through the Tongass National Forest for roughly 35 miles. We captured a photo so you can also enjoy the incredibly beautiful view. We hope you’re able to see it in person someday, too!

Disney Wonder Cruises through Tracy Arm Fjord during Inaugural Alaskan Voyage

Here’s a view of the Disney Wonder sailing near the South Sawyer Glacier at Tracy Arm Fjord.

Disney Wonder Cruises through Tracy Arm Fjord during Inaugural Alaskan Voyage

Disney Wonder Cruises through Tracy Arm Fjord during Inaugural Alaskan Voyage

During our seven-night Alaskan itineraries this summer, Disney Cruise Line also visits Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway where guests can enjoy the splendor, history and adventure that the amazing state of Alaska has to offer.

After seeing this sampling of spectacular scenery, is visiting Alaska aboard a Disney cruise on your to-do list?

Disney Wonder Cruises Through Tracy Arm Fjord During Inaugural Alaskan Voyage « Disney Parks Blog.

Apr 13

YouTube – Episode 2 – Grand Princess Enters Drydock

YouTube – Episode 2 – Grand Princess Enters Drydock.

Apr 13

Princess Cruises Launches Daily Video Journal Chronicling Grand Princess Drydock

Viewers Can Follow Progress as Ship is Transformed During Line’s Most Extensive Drydock Ever

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., April 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Today Grand Princess begins the most significant transformation ever in Princess Cruises history, and viewers can follow along with a daily video journal chronicling the 24-day drydock.

Hosted by Grand Princess Cruise Director Martyn Moss, the videos, as well as photos, are available at princess.com/granddrydock and on YouTube and Flickr.  In the first installment, audiences get a first look at the beginning of the ship’s transformation as it sails to the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas. The journal will include daily updates through May 4.

During the makeover, approximately 1,400 workers will be busy around the clock adding many of Princess’ trademark features, including the signature Piazza atrium.  Several new spaces will also be created including a unique tea lounge and library called “Leaves”; “Alfredo’s,” a full-service pizzeria showcasing this renowned Princess dish, and a new nightclub called “The One5.”

One of the most dramatic video moments is sure to be the removal of the distinctive Skywalkers Nightclub, which is being taken off to improve the ship’s operational performance, including greater fuel efficiency.

“Our passengers really loved following the photo journals we offered during previous drydocks,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.  “So for this, our most extensive transformation, we wanted to take it to the next level and enable viewers to follow along with daily videos.  We expect Martyn to share some intriguing behind-the-scenes footage of the work that goes on during a project of this magnitude.”

Among the other changes highlighted in the video journals will be the transformation of the ship’s atrium to the Piazza, complete with the International Cafe and Vines Wine Bar.  Videos will also follow the addition of a new feature, Leaves Tea Lounge and Library, with shelves of books for passengers to browse as they enjoy personalized tea blends; and a new nightclub, The One5, which will take shape on deck 15.  Several new restaurants will be added to the ship, including Alfredo’s, a new pizzeria with an open kitchen, as well as the Crown Grill, the line’s classic steakhouse and seafood restaurant.

Also part of the renovation will be the addition of seven new suites; remodeled casino, boutiques and art gallery; enhancements to the Horizon Court, Lotus Spa, and wedding chapel; and the addition of Crooner’s Martini Lounge.

The newly renovated ship will debut on May 5 in Ft. Lauderdale where she will depart on a transatlantic crossing for her summer and fall homeport of Southampton, from which she will cruise on a variety of European itineraries.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company’s website at princess.com.

via Princess Cruises Launches Daily Video Journal Chronicling Grand Princess Drydock — SANTA CLARITA, Calif., April 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ —.

Apr 08

New 2012 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries and Ports Unveiled « Disney Parks Blog

Hello from New York!

Captain Mickey Mouse visits New York to help announce new Disney Cruise Line itineraries for 2012.

What are Captain Mickey Mouse and I doing in the Big Apple? Well, we just announced our itinerary line-up for 2012 and (drum roll, please) it includes three new homeports – New York, Seattle and Galveston! Do we have any Disney Cruise Line fans from those areas? Now, a Disney cruise is even more convenient for you, as you can depart for your dream vacation from your backyard.

Captain Mickey Mouse visits New York to help announce new Disney Cruise Line itineraries for 2012.

From New York…
Beginning May 25, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail 20 cruises from New York – with three unique and
varied itineraries.

Captain Mickey Mouse visits New York to help announce new Disney Cruise Line itineraries for 2012.

  • Eight-night Bahamas cruises that include a day at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay; Nassau, Bahamas; and a stop at Port Canaveral, Florida, giving guests an opportunity to visit the nearby Walt Disney World Resort. As part of this itinerary, you’ll receive a one-day Walt Disney World Park Hopper ticket and roundtrip transportation between the port and resort.
  • Five-night cruises up the New England coast that will call at Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick. In these popular Canadian ports, you can soak in splendid natural vistas, explore historic sites, visit quaint cafés and charming shops and browse Canada’s oldest farmer’s market.
  • Three two-night cruises (June 15, July 13 and August 10) that are perfect for families looking for a quick getaway and a sampling of the Disney Cruise Line experience with a day at sea over a weekend.

From Seattle…
Beginning May 28, 2012, the Disney Wonder will sail another season of Alaskan cruises including
seven-night voyages from the Port of Seattle to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia.

Donald Duck visits Seattle to help announce new Disney Cruise Line itineraries for 2012.

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

From Galveston…
Beginning September 22, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail seven-night cruises from Galveston to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call include Grand Cayman and Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel.

Minnie Mouse visits Galveston, Texas to help announce new Disney Cruise Line itineraries for 2012.

On this cruise, your family can enjoy a tropical getaway with world-class entertainment and impeccable guest service found only on a Disney Cruise Line vacation. You’ll have three magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Magic and three days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop to your heart’s content in exotic marketplaces.

If you want to secure your spot on one of these exciting new itineraries, bookings for 2012 open April 8, 2011, on disneycruise.com or by calling Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500.

via New 2012 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries and Ports Unveiled « Disney Parks Blog.

Apr 05

Celebrity Reflection Steel Cutting

Papenburg, 24 March 2011 – MEYER WERFT launched the production of the first steel plate for the new giant cruise liner Celebrity Reflection for the cruise operator Celebrity Cruises (Miami). The fifth ship of the Celebrity Solstice class will be delivered to Celebrity Cruises, in the autumn of 2012.

This extremely energy-saving type of  ship for Celebrity has a length overall of 315 m and is 36.8 m wide. A total of five ships will be built, each offering space for accommodating 3,030 passengers in 1,515 cabins. All standard cabins will be more spacious than they are on average. More than 90 % are outside cabins, again 90% of which have their own balconies. The ships will be equipped with diesel engines and pod propulsion systems; the overall engine output will be 63,000 kWh (approx 86,000 hp).

via Meyerwerft Website.

Mar 15

Princess Cruises Previews Newest Ship as First Steel Plate is Cut in Shipyard

Princess Cruises Previews Newest Ship as First Steel Plate is Cut in Shipyard
Royal Princess Announced as Ship’s Name

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (March 15, 2011) — As the first steel plate was cut today marking the official start of construction of Princess Cruises’ next ship, the line unveiled the vessel’s profile, released preliminary details about some of its features, and revealed its name — Royal Princess.

This will be the third time the name Royal Princesshas been given to a Princess ship.

Debuting in spring of 2013, the new 141,000-ton, 3,600-passenger Royal Princessis the first of two new-generation ships for Princess which are being built by Fincantieri at their Monfalcone, Italy shipyard. The prototype design is an evolution of the line’s classic style of ships, while including some new features and expanded signature spaces.

A new design element revealed today is an over-water SeaWalkSM, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship’s starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel. From here passengers can enjoy dramatic views, including to the sea 128 feet below. On the ship’s port side, passengers will find a similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas.

Also on her top decks, Royal Princesswill feature a new adults-only pool surrounded by seven plush private cabanas that appear to be floating on the water. Two additional pools will flank a tropical island that will offer pool seating by day, and by night will become an outdoor dance club, complete with a dazzling water and light show. Princess’ signature adults-only haven, The Sanctuary, will be expanded both in size and amenities. The popular poolside theater, Movies Under the Stars, will play a starring role mid-ship with an expanded size and high-definition viewing.

“Princess passengers will easily recognize our next ship as a natural progression in our fleet,” said Princess President and CEO Alan Buckelew. “We’re taking the best features of our newest vessels that have been such customer pleasers, and taking them to the next level. Just as the original Royal Princess ushered in a new era for our company with its innovative design, we expect our new Royal Princess to do the same.”

Inside the ship, one of the line’s hallmark venues, the Piazza atrium, will be significantly expanded. This area will be the multi-faceted social hub of the vessel, combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services.

All outside staterooms on Royal Princesswill have balconies, which means that 80 percent of the ship’s staterooms will include this desirable feature.

Royal Princesswill include 260,000 square feet of inside public space with multiple dining and entertainment venues, as well as other special features and amenities which will be revealed over the coming months.

A video preview of Royal Princess is available at http://www.princess.com/royalprincess. Artist renderings of the ship are available on Princess’ Flickr page.

A sister ship to Royal Princesswill be launched in spring 2014.

via News Article : Princess Cruises®.