Jun 05

VACATIONS REINVENTED AS THE WORLD’S LARGEST CRUISE SHIP SAILS INTO SOUTHAMPTON

 

Royal Caribbean International’s Harmony of the Seas Makes Her World Debut, Featuring the Tallest Slide at Sea, The Ultimate Abyss

MIAMI, May 17, 2016 – The port of Southampton, U.K. was bustling today as onlookers gathered to be among the first to see the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, upon her first arrival into port. After 32 months of construction, the ship’s arrival marks a major milestone for Royal Caribbean International as Harmony becomes the 25th ship in the fleet.

“Harmony of the Seas is redefining vacations and intriguing a new generation of travelers with a bold and unexpected line-up of first at sea innovations, while enticing them to explore the world from a new perspective,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “From thrilling onboard activities and experiences to visiting awe-inspiring destinations across the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, Harmony places guests at the forefront and encourages them to create their own adventures onboard and at every destination.”

Intricately built with more than 500,000 individual parts, Harmony measures 362 meters (1,188 feet), nearly four football (soccer) fields long, and encompasses 226,963 gross registered tons.

The newest addition to the family combines the distinct seven-neighborhood concept that Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class of ships are known for with a lineup of the most modern and groundbreaking vacation amenities. Innovative features include The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea with a 10-story plunge; robot bartenders at The Bionic Bar, powered by Makr Shakr; virtual balconies with real-time views of the destination and VOOM – the fastest internet at sea – so that guests can stay connected, stream their favorite entertainment and share their adventures with family and friends back at home.

Harmony of the Seas will sail from Southampton, U.K. on a series of short getaways to Northern Europe before embarking on her maiden cruise on May 29, arriving in Barcelona, Spain on June 5. The unparalleled cruise ship and her 2,100 dedicated crew members then will officially launch her inaugural summer season with the first of 34 seven-night western Mediterranean sailings on June 7.

In November 2016, Harmony will arrive at her homeport of Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., from where she will offer seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings. The newest member of the fleet will join sister ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, homeported in Port Canaveral and Port Everglades respectively, on the east coast of Florida.

Jun 05

Celebrity Cruises Completes Newest Modern Luxury Makeover

 

Movies viewed under the stars and paired with a specially curated menu of delectable food; freshly redecorated suites; a modernized, fully realized Italian steakhouse — modern luxury vacationers need look no further than Celebrity Millennium to understand what all of these experiences have in common. This month, the 2,138-guest vessel will emerge from a drydock refresh reenergized and more luxurious than ever, with the same lineup of stunning enhancements that Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Infinity have received in recent months. Guests sailing on Celebrity Millennium in Alaska this summer will be among the first to enjoy her new spaces and experiences.

“We are beyond thrilled that Celebrity Millennium will soon be even more stunning than ever before as a result of the $8 million that we’re investing in this drydock,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President & CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “We have added new elements and experiences that will help open up the world for modern luxury travelers, from our gorgeously updated Suite Class staterooms onboard to the amazingly delicious Tuscan Grille menu, and, of course, the new Rooftop Terrace.”

The new Rooftop Terrace, complete with its large screen, chaise longues, cabanas, soundscape and decorative lighting, is a modern relaxing backdrop for Celebrity’s sumptuous new multisensory experience, “A Taste of Film,” which presents films that evoke a specific cultural, culinary or destination experience, paired with cuisine that brings the scenes on the screen to life through guests’ taste buds. The cruise brand’s culinary team, led by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher, has specially crafted a multi-course tasting menu for each “A Taste of Film” selection. The Rooftop Terrace is on the ship’s 12th deck.

Additional drydock enhancements will include significant renovations of the ship’s Penthouse and Royal Suites. As part of the $8 million refresh plan, Celebrity is investing heavily in its Suite Class experience on Celebrity Millennium, as every Penthouse and Royal Suite will receive new glimmering fixtures, marble surfaces, and comfortable seats in the bathrooms. The rest of the suite will get refreshing touches like new carpeting, drapes, and bed linens.

Conversion of Celebrity Millennium’s Olympic restaurant to Tuscan Grille, Celebrity’s popular, Italian-inspired steakhouse that debuted on its Solstice Class ships, will include complete refinishing of the space and the introduction of a refreshed menu designed to tantalize, including fresh pasta made in-house; an Italian cocktail menu, a first for Tuscan Grille; a wine list focused on the wine-growing regions of Italy; and new foods like artisanal salumi and cheeses; crispy crab arancini with lemon pepper aioli; grilled branzino with spinach and olive oil; swordfish with Castelvetrano olives, fennel and white wine; and oven-roasted USDA Prime dry-aged steak.

On Celebrity Millennium, the maritime artifacts in the Olympic will be featured in a special display area in the casino’s entry vestibule. Items include charts, maps, an original place setting, a ship model, and more.

Additional work taking place onboard will include:

  • • The addition of an enclosed portrait studio similar to that found on Celebrity’s Solstice Class ships, Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Equinox
  • • The creation of a new future cruise sales office, where guests can take advantage of special offers
  • • A refresh of the Solarium, with new furniture, new floors, and refinished pool tops, and a refresh of finishes in the spa café
  • • The removal of the themed décor in the ship’s casino

Celebrity Millenium entered drydock on April 26, 2016 and will emerge on May 12, 2016. This summer, Celebrity Millennium will sail a series of open-jaw itineraries between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska, before heading to Asia in September for her winter season there.

Jun 05

Princess Cruises Announces 2017-2018 Americas Season

 

Americas-lg

Featuring New Itineraries, Longer Port Stays, More Short Cruise Getaways and Transits Through New Panama Canal Locks

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., May 31, 2016 /PRNewswire/ –　Princess Cruises has announced its 2017-2018 Americas cruise itineraries from Fall 2017 to Spring 2018 including sailings to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, Hawaii, and the California Coast. The array of cruise vacations range from three to 28 days and went on sale May 19.

In total, 11 ships with 230 departures on more than 30 unique itineraries visiting 70 destinations will sail between September 2017 and April 2018. Cruises will offer guests a variety of choices ranging from a short-cruise getaway to week-long vacations, as well as voyages of 10 days and longer on the line recognized as “Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean” by U.S. News and World Report in 2015 and “Best Cruises from the West Coast” by Cruise Critic.

Highlights include the maiden season of Caribbean Princess on 10-day cruises sailing through the new Panama Canal locks. Roundtrip California Coastvoyages from Los Angeles will now include the port of Monterey. A Princess first, Emerald Princess offers a 12-day roundtrip Alaska voyage from Los Angeles in Spring 2018. Princess guests can choose from more short-cruise getaways on both coasts with Crown Princess introducing new five-day departures to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Ft. Lauderdale while Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess sail four- or five-day options from Los Angeles – with overnight stay in Cabo San Lucas on our five-day!

“Our 2017-2018 Americas season offers exciting itineraries for our guests to choose the perfect cruise vacation from homeports in the United States andCanada,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “Recognized for our award-winning itineraries, we’re always evolving our cruise options so our guests can immerse themselves in the local cultures and enjoy new experiences while in port.”

Full details of Princess Cruises’ 2017-2018 Americas cruise season include:

Caribbean
Offering the youngest fleet in the region, taking guests to some of the Caribbean’s top-rated beaches and most romantic ports, five Princess Cruisesships will sail 5-day Getaways, 7- and 8-day vacations and voyages from 10-to 21-days long in 2017 and 2018.

Caribbean Princess debuts a new 14-day Circle Caribbean itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, including visits to Martinique, Barbados,Trinidad, Aruba, Curacao, Antigua, St. Maarten, St. Kitts and a stop at the line’s private beach resort, Princess Cays. The ship offers a special holiday sailing including both Christmas and New Year’s Day.

The line’s popular 7-day Caribbean cruises return in 2017 and 2018 with visits to the Eastern and Western Caribbean regions on Regal Princess, while Crown Princess alternates 8-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean and 5-day Getaways to the Eastern and Western Caribbean throughout the season.

Pacific Princess sails a holiday 14-day Caribbean Connoisseur voyage, visiting islands not typically included on other Caribbean itineraries for an off-the-beaten path exploration, including St. Croix, Nevis, Guadeloupe, Tobago and Virgin Gorda.

Royal Princess returns to the Caribbean including 10-day Southern Medley and 10-day Eastern Voyager itineraries which can be combined for a 20-day vacation.　 These sailings offer the best of the Caribbean including St. Kitts, Barbados and St. Lucia as well as ports that are off-the-beaten path such asDominica, Grenada and Bonaire.

Panama Canal
Princess Cruises is the #1 cruise line sailing the Panama Canal, taking more guests through the Panama Canal than any other cruise line, while providing the most itinerary options and sailing dates from fall through spring on four ships.

2017-2018 will be the maiden season for transiting the new Panama Canal locks, with Caribbean Princess offering partial transits on 10-day voyages roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale.

Coral Princess, Island Princess and Pacific Princess all sail ocean to ocean with full transit offerings through all three sets of traditional Canal locks – Gatun, Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks, with Coral Princess offering an extra day in Fuerte Amador for guests to fully experience historic Panama City.

Guests may take advantage of the line’s Connoisseur voyages on board Pacific Princess, sailing a 17-day voyage with a call to the unique port of Santa Marta, Colombia.

Finally, Island Princess sails a convenient roundtrip Los Angeles departure for transits through the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks, offering guests a nostalgic cruise experience to the Panama Canal.

Hawaii, Mexico, California Coast and Alaska
On the West Coast, five ships will be deployed from three homeports – Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver – to the tropical waters of Hawaii andMexico, as well as the beautiful California Coast, and a Princess-first voyage to Alaska roundtrip from Los Angeles. Voyages range from four to 28 days.

Star Princess homeports in Los Angeles sailing 10 voyages to the Hawaiian Islands with port calls in Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. Grand Princess homeports in San Francisco sailing seven voyages visiting the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.

Roundtrip departures from Vancouver, British Columbia to the Hawaiian Islands are also available on Star Princess in the fall and spring. Emerald Princess also features two 28-day cruises to Hawaii, Tahiti and Samoa in the fall and spring.

The line’s popular Mexico cruises are available as 7-day voyages from Los Angeles, visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, or as 10-day cruises from San Francisco with the added port of Manzanillo. In addition, 10-day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez voyages return, sailing from Los Angeles to the ports of San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Loreto, Puerto Vallarta and the California Coast.

Offering the ultimate California food and wine experience, the line’s 7-day sailings from Los Angeles and 10-day cruises from Vancouver include the new port of Monterey on the California coast, offering opportunities to visit the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Course, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the breathtaking coastal views of the region’s iconic 17-Mile-Drive.　 Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess also sail on select 4-day West Coast Getaway voyages from Los Angeles including Santa Barbara or Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico, while 5-day Cabo San Lucas Getaways include an overnight in the popular destination.

A Princess first, Emerald Princess departs on a 12-day roundtrip voyage from Los Angeles with port calls in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Vancouver, featuring scenic cruising of Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More Ashore
Offering guests more time to explore local cultures and culinary offerings, select itineraries in the Caribbean, California and Hawaii offer extended stays in Aruba, Curacao, St. Thomas, Cozumel, San Francisco, San Diego, Long Beach and Honolulu, as well an overnight stay in Cabo San Lucas on the line’s five-day voyages from Los Angeles.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel consultant, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at princess.com.

Jun 05

Carnival Vista’s Two-Deck Cloud 9 Spa: A Seagoing Oasis Of Tranquility And Relaxation

 

Infrared Sauna and Hammam Chamber Among Array of Options for Personal Pampering and Rejuvenation

MIAMI, May 26, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — For those looking to unwind and relax, the new Carnival Vista has a lot to ahhh about. The luxurious two-level Cloud 9 Spa features an array of chill-worthy amenities, including Carnival’s first infrared sauna and Hammam Chamber, as well as special “experience showers” that provide a soothing fragrance element, a large heated whirlpool, four steam chambers and a high-tech indoor cycling studio.

Carnival Vista – the line’s newest, largest and most innovative ship – debuted earlier this month in Europe.

Exclusive to Carnival Vista is the Infrared Heat Chamber.  The chamber’s heating system is built into the walls with 80 percent of the heat gently warming the body and the remaining 20 percent of infrared heat released into the air, providing cooler, more consistent temperatures than traditional saunas.

The beneficial effects of a sauna remain the same: body detoxification to increase energy, burn calories, decrease inflammation, relieve pain and improve blood circulation in the skin to enhance delivery of oxygen and nutrients.

Another Carnival Vista exclusive is the Hammam Chamber, developed during the Ottoman Empire as a place of regeneration, contemplation and inner peace. The aim is both physical and spiritual cleansing, along with loosening of joints and muscles by ladling warm water over the body to slowly increase temperature to approximately 113 degrees F.

Carnival Vista’s Cloud 9 Spa also features an elaborate Thermal Suite, which offers intensive relaxation and a new sensory experience provided through individually designed heat therapy rooms that cleanse, tone and purify the body using alternating dry and wet heat chambers. The thermal suite is an exclusive facility within the spa offering different areas for specific therapeutic needs.

The Steam Chamber with Aroma Steam and Aromatic Grotto is a small, intimate chamber where high humidity and radiant heat create a moist, warm climate that gently but thoroughly cleanses the skin and respiratory tract with herbal steam featuring sweet aromas such as cinnamon, orange or apple.

The Dry Heat Chamber, or Laconium, is a large dry heat bath/sauna-like chamber where circulation is stimulated, accelerating and mobilizing the body’s own defenses, while reducing stress.

Carnival Vista’s Cloud 9 Spa also has a fitness center with the latest cardio and weight-training equipment catering to all conditioning levels. The fitness center serves as the location for a wide range of instructor-led exercise classes, including a new indoor cycling studio.

Powered by Myzone, RYDE is a 45-minute indoor cycling class that takes riders through a series of climbs and sprints to target all energy systems, while integrating technology to track riders’ intensity and enhance their future workout results.  The combination of modern and old school music fuels the atmosphere for an upbeat high energy work out that leaves riders with a feeling of achievement.

Additional Cloud 9 Spa amenities include treatment rooms for European-style massages and facials, two saunas (men/women), two locker rooms (men/women), a post-treatment relaxation room where guests can lounge, enjoy herbal tea and relish the sensation of pure relaxation and a VIP treatment room with whirlpool.

As part of the Cloud 9 Spa located forward on decks 12 and 14, Carnival Vista features 98 spa staterooms and six suites. Guests in these accommodations have convenient access to the spa and are eligible for exclusive spa packages, discounts and priority spa appointments. These staterooms and suites have additional in-room, spa-related amenities and décor different than other accommodations, in harmony with the soothing and relaxing theme of the Cloud 9 Spa.

A salon with full hair and nail services, men’s barber/grooming area and special stations for manicures and pedicures round out Carnival Vista’s Cloud 9 Spa services and facilities.

Carnival Vista debuted May 1 and will operate a summer schedule of Mediterranean cruises through October.  The ship will then reposition to New Yorkfor a pair of 11-day voyages in November 2016 before launching year-round six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises from Miami later that month.

Jun 05

Holland America Line Looks to the Future and Honors the Past by Naming Next Pinnacle Class Ship ms Nieuw Statendam

ms_Nieuw_Statendam

Sister ship to ms Koningsdam is scheduled to set sail in Fall 2018

Seattle, Wash., May 20, 2016 — Holland America Line announced today that the name of the next Pinnacle Class ship set for delivery in fall 2018 will bems Nieuw Statendam. Honoring the company’s past while keeping its eyes on the future, Nieuw Statendam will be the sixth ship in Holland America Line’s history to bear the name Statendam. It will be built at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy, and construction will begin this summer.

Like sister-ship ms Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam represents a new class of ship for the cruise line. Carrying 2,650 guests, the 99,500-gross-ton ship will feature several of the innovative venues that were introduced on Koningsdam as well as new concepts that will debut on the newbuild.

“Holland America Line is writing the next chapter in our evolving story, yet we are a company with a deep history, and the name ms Nieuw Statendamperfectly blends our past, present and future,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line’s president. “The previous Statendam ships have been among the most beloved in our history, and we eagerly anticipate sharing this beautiful new ship with our guests in 2018.”

Renowned hospitality designer Adam D. Tihany’s designs will be featured on Nieuw Statendam, bringing his unique vision to this latest vessel as he did with Koningsdam.Also severalpublic areas will be designed by Bjorn Storbraaten, who successfully worked with Holland America Line on Koningsdam, ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam in designing the ship’s public rooms.

The History of the Statendam Ships
The first Statendam launched in 1898 and was just 10,491 gross tons. It served the fleet until 1911. The second Statendam was built in the 1910s for Holland America Line but was sold to White Star Line as Justicia before it entered service. The next Statendam served the line from 1929 until 1940, when it was scrapped after a fire.

The fourth Statendam launched in 1957 and was christened by an 18-year-old Dutch Crown Princess Beatrix, who would later become Queen and nameEurodam as well. On Jan. 7, 1958, the ship departed on a 110-day World Cruise, the first for Holland America Line. Statendam remained in the fleet until 1982, when it was sold to Paquet Cruises. The fifth ship to carry the Statendam name launched in 1993 and served the line until 2015, when it was transferred to sister cruise line P&O Cruises Australia, where it sails today as Pacific Eden.

Mar 27

ROYAL GENIE TO CRAFT ONE-OF-A-KIND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES FOR GUESTS IN NEW ROYAL SUITE CLASS

MIAMI, March 17, 2016 – Introducing the Royal Genie, every vacationer’s dream come true! When Royal Caribbean International debuts the Royal Suite Class this May, guests in the Star Class – Loft Suites or higher categories – will have the opportunity to have their own personal Royal Genie to cater to their every whim.

The Royal Genie will serve as the ultimate insider helping craft one-of-a kind experiences based on a guest’s personal style and preferences. From planning the perfect date night or a unique family celebration to creating the memorable adventure of a lifetime in one of the ship’s destinations, the Royal Genie will curate personalized experiences catered to each guest. After a day in port enjoying customized shore excursions, guests can return to their suite to savor handcrafted cocktails made in-suite. The Royal Genies also will assist with making restaurant and show reservations, in-room dining requests, and any other needs – from laundry, pressing and shoe-shining, to luggage handling and unpacking.

The Royal Genie will embody contemporary fashion and lifestyle with her/his own distinct look and feel. From day time casual looks that feature pants and linen shirts for balmy Caribbean days to a more formal evening look with bold pops of purple and cranberry, the Royal Genie will impress in more ways than one.

An exclusive experience for guests seeking a luxury adventure, the Royal Suite Class features well-appointed accommodations including amenities such as complimentary VOOM – the fastest internet at sea; complimentary specialty dining in all of the cruise lines signature venues; an ultimate beverage package; inclusive gratuities; preferred seating at select onboard venues and upgraded room amenities.

The Royal Suite Class will be available for sailings beginning May 2016 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas as well as Harmony of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas (Sydney departures only) when they debut in spring 2016. For details on the Royal Suite Class and amenities available for each class visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/RoyalSuiteClass.

Mar 27

Princess Cruises Unveils 2017 Alaska Cruise and Land & Sea Vacation Program

 

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (March 24, 2016) – Next summer, six Princess Cruises’ ships will sail Alaska’s storied waters, offering multiple itinerary options, immersive onboard culinary and cultural experiences and a variety of Land & Sea Vacations for further exploring the 49th state’s vast wilderness.

The line’s signature Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary, with its unrivaled glacier-viewing opportunities, will be offered on Coral Princess, Star Princess and Island Princess between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver, B.C.; while cruises through the Inside Passage, with its ever-changing scenery from picturesque shores to quaint coastal towns, will be offered aboard Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess from Seattle and Grand Princess from San Francisco.

While on board, guests will encounter a variety of ways to engage in authentic experiences through the award-winning North to Alaska program, featuring the newest Cook My Catch, an exclusive culinary program allowing guests to return from select Princess fishing excursions to have the chef prepare their very own catch of the day. Also offered in 2017, the crowd-favoritePuppies in the Piazza, where real Alaskan sled dog puppies are brought on board for guests to interact with. On land, guests will hear first-hand tales from mountain climbers who have conquered Denali as they tell the exhilarating stories of their journey in the new Hudson Theater at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge.

In addition, the cruise line’s Land & Sea Vacations will offer flexible ways to delve deeper into the fascinating Alaska frontier. Land tours are combined with a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and include the company’s premier wilderness lodges, exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness domed rail service, plus visits to the top two attractions in Alaska – Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park.

All 2017 Alaska cruises and Land and Sea Vacations are open for booking.

“As the #1 cruise line in Alaska, Princess continues to offer guests the best of this beautiful state while on land and at sea,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. “From wilderness and glaciers to fresh salmon and sled dog puppies, the newest North to Alaska experiences truly delivers on our commitment to ensuring our guests come back new.”

Princess’ 2017 Alaska program includes:

Alaska Cruises
With 113 departures from Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver and Whittier featuring unique ports and destinations, options abound for exploring Alaska in 2017 aboard Princess ships, including:

  • Voyage of the Glaciers – Princess’ most popular Gulf of Alaska sailings between Vancouver and Whittier features two glacier-viewing experiences on every voyage, with visits to the UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park plus either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
  • Inside Passage –This awe-inspiring part of Alaska, known for its lush scenery and pristine fjords, will be featured on seven- and 10-day roundtrip voyages with the option to visit Glacier Bay on select sailings from Seattle, Vancouver and San Francisco.

Alaska Land & Sea Vacations
Princess offers guests more than 20 Land and Sea Vacations in 2017, most featuring multiple nights at Princess-owned Wilderness Lodges to experience the grandeur of Denali. Guests will once again be able to purchase a pre-paid meal package for the land portion of their vacation in 2017. Options include:

  • Denali Explorer – As Princess’ most popular Land & Sea Vacation, these itineraries feature multiple nights at the line’s Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and/or Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Most offer Princess’ exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service between the ship in Whittier and the Denali area all in one day, plus the opportunity to explore Fairbanks and/or Anchorage.
  • On Your Own – An affordable option for independent-minded travelers, these itineraries offer a flexible way to see the heart of Alaska. Tours follow similar routes as Denali Explorer options, but do not include any pre-planned excursions, giving travelers the opportunity to customize their own experience.
  • Off the Beaten Path – These itineraries are designed to take travelers beyond Denali to sought-after, remote regions of the state such as the Kenai Peninsula and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.
  • Connoisseur – The line’s highest level of service, these tours provide a truly immersive experience. With a professional tour director, most meals included and enhanced sightseeing, guests experience the best of the Great Land.
  • Heart of the Rockies Plus Rail – This 14-night cruisetour originates in Calgary and includes daylight Silverleaf rail service on the Rocky Mountaineer. The fully escorted land tour combines with a seven-day northbound Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Star Princess and includes most breakfasts and dinners. Spectacular overnight accommodations are offered at Fairmont Palliser Hotel, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

More information about Princess Cruises 2017 Alaska program can be found here.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel consultant, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website athttp://www.princess.com.

Mar 04

Norwegian Cruise Line Names World’s First Purpose-Built Liner for Chinese Market Norwegian Joy

 

Internationally-acclaimed Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled the English and Chinese names for the world’s first purpose-built cruise liner for the China market. The most innovative ship ever styled exclusively for Chinese guests has been named ‘Norwegian Joy’ – translating into Chinese as 喜悦号 (Xǐ Yuè Hào).The name Norwegian Joy emphasizes the experience that the ship will offer — 尽享喜悦  海上乐园, a promise that guests will ‘Experience Paradise on the Sea’.

“After closely studying the Chinese cruise market for several years, we wanted to be clear about what we will deliver to our guests on this spectacular vessel,” said Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Chief Executive Officer Frank Del Rio. “Norwegian Joy will provide the same sense of freedom and flexibility found on all Norwegian Cruise Line ships, but with resort-style vacation experiences and amenities designed specifically with the Chinese guest in mind.” 

 

Norwegian Joy

With a capacity of 3,900 guests, the new Breakaway Plus-class vessel will debut in China in Summer 2017. Norwegian Joy is designed specifically for the Chinese traveler, with cuisine and onboard experiences that cater to the unique vacation preferences of Chinese guests.  This unrivaled customization for the China market has involved detailed consultation with Chinese partners and local experts on the subtleties of Chinese culture and preferences.

The upscale cruise experience especially tailored for modern Chinese travelers extends from world-class entertainment to a wide range of specially curated fine international dining, unrivaled duty-free luxury shopping at sea and a new range of incredible first-at-sea activities onboard.

“Chinese guests will discover an unmatched quality of service, cuisine, entertainment and retail experience onboard Norwegian Joy that is simply not available in the China market today,” said Senior Vice President and Managing Director of China, David Herrera.  “With Norwegian Joy, we will unquestionably offer our Chinese guests a superior product and introduce a new standard of innovation and excellence into what will soon be the world’s second largest cruise market.”

Additional details, including the ship’s homeport, accommodations, dining and entertainment will be shared in the coming months.

 

Nuò Wéi Zhēn

In addition to the ship name, NCL has also revealed a new Chinese name and logo exclusively for the mainland China market. The company’s name will be represented by characters 诺唯真 (Nuò Wéi Zhēn), translating as a ‘Promising, Exclusive and Authentic’ cruise line, which perfectly reflects the company’s dedication to offering the premier cruise product in China. Along with outstanding entertainment, dining and upscale accommodations, Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for a unique style of cruising known as Freestyle Cruising that offers guests the freedom and flexibility to dine, shop and enjoy entertainment on their own time schedule in a fun, relaxed, and energetic atmosphere. Only on Norwegian can guests enjoy their vacation at their leisure, with no set dining times, a wide array of dining experiences and a variety of award-winning entertainment.

To support NCL’s expansion in China, the company has opened offices in Beijing (Guomao CBD) and Shanghai (Xintiandi), supporting all three brands in the company’s portfolio – Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Mar 04

ADVENTURE STEERS ROYAL CARRIBEAN SUMMER 2017 EUROPEAN ITINERARIES

MIAMI, March 3, 2016 – Royal Caribbean International sails into Europe for summer 2017 with itineraries that bring global experiences to the forefront of cruising. Widely regarded as the world’s most awarded cruise line, Royal Caribbean will transport adventure-minded travelers to some of the globe’s most iconic destinations via six of the brand’s distinct ships, together stacking up to deliver the ultimate European summer getaways. Bookings for Europe season open on Friday, March 4, 2016.

Travelers will venture through the majestic isles of the Eastern and Western Mediterranean on Jewel of the Seas sailing from Italy on seven- and nine-night voyages that visit Greece and Turkey, as well as seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean – offered more frequently with additional departures dates in 2017 – visiting France, Spain and Italy. Among the ports-of-call will be Santorini, Greece’s live volcanic island cluster that summons visitors to explore its cliff-top whitewashed towns, indulge in its gastronomic splendors, and daydream from its red, white, and black sand beaches; the Greek capital city of Athens will offer a taste of life in the ancient world with exploration through legendary landmarks such as the citadel Acropolis and the temple Parthenon; Turkey’s ancient town of Ephesus, dating back to the 10th century BC, will beckon history-lovers with a glimpse at the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean; an international capital of faith, art, and history, Rome will treat its guests to an unmatched blend of archeological treasures with modern appeal; and Venice’s Grand Canal will guide voyagers through this floating city’s bevy of architectural masterpieces and religious sanctuaries, and welcome a mid-day siesta on the steps of its waterfront structures.

Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas will host guests on seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean, while Brilliance of the Seasnavigates eight European destinations with a 12-night itinerary, both departing from Barcelona, Spain. A stroll through this vibrant city will present a lesson in architectural mastery, thanks to Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, while Barcelona’s flare for the arts will be highlighted by the country’s native Picasso in his namesake museum. Food and wine lovers will take note of the ship’s call in Naples, Italy – the birthplace of pizza and ever-popular lemon liquor, limoncello. A peak inside the city’s celebrated royal castles will intrigue the historically-curious, while Royal Caribbean’s walking tour will journey through a 19th century underground tunnel, over to the San Carlo Opera House, and to the 17th century Carmignano aqueduct. To the east of Naples, the walled medieval town of Kotor, Montenegro will await exploration, with its plentiful shops, restaurants, piazzas, and palazzos. The cruise line’s new Budva Riviera and Beach experience will offer a tranquil getaway to the country’s coastal towns and villages, with a stop at Montenegro’s award-winning Becici Beach.

Independence of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas will sail the Mediterranean and the Spanish Canary Islands from Southampton, England with itineraries that extend from 7 to 14 nights. Southampton’s location allows for an easy city getaway to London, an excursion to the historic Stonehenge site, or the famed Downton Abby estate from the hit BBC television show. Those looking for an adrenaline-inducing experience can seek out the GoApe adventure in 440-acre Itchen Valley Country Park, complete with tunnels, suspended bridges, and zip lines through the treetops. Also on the agenda: Nice, France, the seaside town on the glamourous French Rivera, will bring sun, surf, and the sophistication of the French lifestyle. The local Cours Saley market will present a selection of fresh fruit and vegetable snacks before a hike up the city’s Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill), where visitors will find a picturesque point for outdoor picnics and a children’s playground amid sweeping views of Nice and its Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). The North African country of Morocco will add an exotic touch with its cultural kaleidoscope that blends Berber, Arabian and European influences. A landing in the resort town of Agadir will grant visitors a relaxed day on the far eastern shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

Serenade of the Seas and Vision of the Seas will head to northern Europe with a checklist of ports that includes Copenhagen, Denmark, home to the 100 year old Tivoli Gardens amusement park; Tromso, Norway, located north of the Arctic Circle with an unexpectedly milder climate and peaks for soaking in seasonal views of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun; sightseeing in the Swedish capital of Stockholm via Royal Caribbean’s new paddleboard excursion, taking travelers on a water-based tour along the scenic Karlberg Canal; as well as a day spent cruising the Artic region laden with magnificent glaciers and unique wildlife.

The breadth of Royal Caribbean’s Europe Adventure Collection for 2017 is as follows:

2017 Europe Adventure Collection Deployment Summary Guide

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL EUROPE ADVENTURE COLLECTION
SHIP SPRING 2017 (April – June)
Brilliance of the Seas® 12-Night Mediterranean – Barcelona
12-Night Mediterranean Greek Isles – Barcelona
12-Night Mediterranean Venice – Barcelona
Freedom of the Seas® 7-Night Western Mediterranean – Barcelona
Independence of the Seas® 3-Night Taste of Paris and Bruges – Southampton
7-Night France and Spain – Southampton
8-Night Norwegian Escapes – Southampton
12-Night Canaries Adventures – Southampton
14-Night Mediterranean Explorer – Southampton
Jewel of the Seas® 7-Night Western Mediterranean – Rome
9-Night Greek Isles – Rome
Legend of the Seas® 7-Night Greece, Turkey & Croatia – Venice
7-Night Greek Isles – Venice
14-Night Best of India & Sri Lanka – Singapore
16-Night Suez Canal – Dubai
Navigator of the SeasSM 7-Night Spain, France & Portugal – Southampton
14-Night Mediterranean Tour – Southampton
12-Night Northern Delights – Southampton
Serenade of the Seas® 7-Night Norwegian Fjords – Copenhagen
7-Night Scandinavia & Fjords – Copenhagen
7/10-Night Scandinavia & Russia – Stockholm
11-Night Arctic Circle – Copenhagen
11-Night Ultimate Scandivia-Russia – Copenhagen
Vision of the Seas® 11-Night Italy, Malta & Spain – Venice
10-Night Western Europe – Barcelona
12-Night Baltic – Amsterdam
12-Night British Isles – Amsterdam
SHIP SUMMER 2017 (July – September)
Brilliance of the Seas® 14-Night Mediterranean – Barcelona
12-Night Mediterranean Greek Isles – Barcelona
12-Night Mediterranean Venice – Barcelona
Freedom of the Seas® 7-Night Western Mediterranean – Barcelona
Independence of the Seas® 8-Night Northern Europe – Southampton
8-Night France & Spain – Southampton
12/14-Night Mediterranean – Southampton
12-Night Sunshine in the Canaries – Southampton
Jewel of the Seas® 7-Night Western Mediterranean – Rome
9-Night Greek Isles – Rome
Legend of the Seas® 6-Night Croatia & Greece – Venice
7-Night Greek Isles – Venice
7/8-Night Greece, Turkey & Croatia – Venice
Navigator of the SeasSM 6-Night France & Spain – Southampton
12/14-Night Mediterranean – Southampton
14-Night Canaries & Azores – Southampton
14-Night Italian Mediterranean – Southampton
Serenade of the Seas® 7-Night Scandinavia & Fjords – Copenhagen
7-Night Scandinavia & Russia – Copenhagen
7-Night Norwegian Fjords – Copenhagen
13-Night Ultimate Scandivia-Russia – Stockholm
Vision of the Seas® 10/11/12-Night Baltic – Amsterdam
14-Night Western Europe – Copenhagen
11-Night France, Italy and Adriatic – Barcelona
10-Night Greece and the Adriatic – Venice
SHIP FALL 2017 (October – December)
Freedom of the Seas® 10-Night Tour of Western Mediterranean – Barcelona
Independence of the Seas® 3-Night Taste of Paris & Bruges – Southampton
5-Night French & Dutch Adventure – Southampton
7-Night France & Spain – Southampton
Jewel of the Seas® 9-Night Greek Isles – Rome
Legend of the Seas® 7-Night Greece, Turkey & Croatia – Venice
Navigator of the SeasSM 5-Night France & Spain – Southampton
5-Night French & Dutch Adventure – Southampton
9-Night European Coastal – Southampton
10-Night Sunshine in the Canaries – Southampton
Vision of the Seas® 11-Night Greece, Turkey & Croatia – Venice
10-Night Greece & the Adriatic – Venice
8-Night Greek Isles – Venice

Mar 04

ROYAL CARIBBEAN UNVEILS NEW ADVENTURES TO ALASKA FOR SUMMER 2017

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MIAMI, February 25, 2016 – For the 28th consecutive season, Royal Caribbean International will return to the Great Frontier, delivering the world’s best vacation for adventure seekers, set against the backdrop of America’s most picturesque shoreline landscape. Explorer of the Seas andRadiance of the Seas will each sail seven-night itineraries that bring the awe-inspiring Alaskan seascape to life and the state’s rugged mysterious interior within reach to become real world adventures. Explorer of the Seas sails roundtrip from Seattle, and Radiance of the Seas sails from Vancouver, BC to Seward, AK and then from Seward, AK to Vancouver, BC. All itineraries open for sale on Feb. 26. Globetrotters eager to plan their 2017 summer travels will reap the benefits of complimentary upgrades as an incentive for early booking, in addition to the promotional offerings already underway.

New in 2017, two 12-night cruisetours exclusive to Royal Caribbean guests will take travelers to roads less traveled both with overnight stays in scenic Alaskan escapes before or after their cruise. The Kantishna Select Wilderness & Wildlife cruisetour unleashes the traveler’s adventurous spirit to explore Denali’s unspoiled wilderness with local experts. Guests hike the Exit Glacier, go on a kayak and bike adventure at Eklutna Lake and travel by rail from the Denali National Park and Preserve to Fairbanks. The cruisetour includes two nights of exclusive accommodations at a Kantishna backcountry lodge, amongst the finest wilderness lodges in the state, immediately after the cruise vacation. Nestled in an idyllic setting on the bend of a river, the lodge touts an inherent sense of history from deep within the National Park. The Katmai Bear Trek & Kantishna Fly Over cruisetour will bring to life the most sought after Alaska experience, the chance to witness the notorious American Brown Bear hunting in its natural habitat with an extraordinary close and unobstructed view in the Katmai Park and Preserve. Adventure-seekers taking part in the cruisetour will have two nights in Denali or Anchorage, before or after the cruise respectively, to explore these frontier destinations. 

Alaska Adventure Collection      

Known for unexpected experiences found only on Royal Caribbean, the cruise line continues to transform the cruise experience by offering innovative ships combined with active immersive adventures in incredible destinations around the world. And there is no place like Alaska where the possibilities of discovery are uncovered traveling through forests, amidst gardens, over glaciers, up mountain passes and across lakes.

Vacationers have a vast array of destinations and excursions to add to their “must see and do” lists, including:

  • Icy Straight Point: The world’s longest zipline with a 1,320 ft. vertical drop, the ZipRider transports brave riders from mountain peak to harbor-side beach at 60 mph.
  • Juneau: Bald eagles, bears, caribou, and sea lions, are part of the Alaska Big 5 wildlife list, but whale watching in Stephen’s Passage is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences ever. Guests can enjoy this all-new shore excursion that brings them up-close-and-personal with humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, and more.
  • Ketchikan: The largest wilderness in Alaska is the 2.3 million acre Misty Fjords which captures the
    breathtaking landscape from glacial blue lakes to waterfalls, rising to snowcapped peaks. The floatplane aerial view reveals the nuances of nature’s color palette and textures, awarding the bragging rights travelers relish.
  • Skagway: This town is so associated with the exhilaration of the Gold Rush that the town has become synonymous with rugged adventure. Travelers can take in the Tongass National Rainforest from the comfort of 4×4 vehicles or visit Musher’s Camp for a hands-on lesson in dog sledding.
  • Victoria, BC: The 100 year old Buchart Gardens is one of Canada’s National Historic Sites having grown from a single rose bush to a verdant 55-acre oasis. Guests can enjoy self-guided tours of this enchanting botanical display.

Explorer of the Seas, the 15-deck, 1,557-stateroom ship which accommodates 3,840 guests was revitalized in 2015 to bring signature Royal Caribbean innovations like the FlowRider surf simulator, virtual balconies for interior staterooms and a variety of new dining experiences onboard.

Radiance of the Seas, the 13-deck, 1,071-stateroom ship accommodating 2,466 guests offers a 220 sq. foot, poolside movie screen, in addition to the signature rock-climbing wall, spa and multiple dining venues for which the cruise line is known.