Princess Cruises reveals top deck features aboard Royal Princess

The Signature SeaWalk, Pools, Evening Light Show and Larger Movies Under the Stars will Keep Passengers Entertained

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

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (September 27, 2012) – Princess Cruises today unveiled additional details about the outdoor entertainment features that will be found on the top deck of the new Royal Princess, including the dramatic SeaWalk, the pool areas, an evening light show and a 30 percent larger Movies Under the Stars poolside theater.

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

Norwegian Breakaway to feature "cutting-edge" spa and fitness experiences

Norwegian’s newest ship will have an expansive two-level spa with first-ever salt room at sea and state-of-the-art fitness facility with innovative exercise options

 

MIAMI - September 26, 2012 – Norwegian Breakaway will redefine relaxation and fitness at sea when the ship launches in late April 2013, featuring an expansive spa with the first-ever salt room at sea and state-of-the-art fitness facility offering a variety of exciting and innovative fitness options. The combined spa and fitness area spans two decks, encompassing more than 23,000 square feet. 

Offering the ultimate in indulgent experiences, Norwegian Breakaway’s tranquil Mandara Spa and thermal suite will offer guests the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City and will feature the first-ever salt room at sea.

Popular in top spas around the world, salt room therapy has been proven to alleviate respiratory and skin ailments, strengthen the immune system, promote better sleep and have a long-term positive impact on overall lung function. Spa guests visiting the Salt Room will be immersed in a dramatic grotto setting as they enjoy this unique, indulgent and beneficial spa experience.

The tranquil thermal suite also offers guests spectacular unobstructed views of the ocean, the opportunity to melt away on one of the 13 heated loungers, vitality pool, whirlpools, sauna, solarium and steam room, along with a full-service salon and barber shop.

Alaska 2013: Unscripted Un-Cruise adventures with InnerSea Discoveries/American Safari Cruises

Seven boats sail Active, Luxury and Heritage Adventures in Southeast Alaska

 

Seattle, WA, Sept 26, 2012 – InnerSea Discoveries + American Safari Cruises unveils an expanded schedule of adventure cruises in Alaska for summer 2013 with three expedition boats and four upscale yachts, including the new-to-the-fleet Safari Legacy. Guests may choose an Active Adventure aboard the expedition boats or a Luxury or Heritage Adventure aboard the yachts.

From May to September, seven boats sail 11 different itineraries from 7- to 21-nights long. Alaska homeports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka.

Cunard Line announces Tropical Discoveries sale

 Five-Day Sale Offers Reduced Deposit, On Board Credit of up to $300
and up to 2-for-1 Savings on Select Voyages

26 September 2012 – Whether you have always wanted to explore the South Pacific or the locks of the Panama Canal, or sail through Atlantic and Caribbean wonders on a luxury cruise vacation, Cunard Line’s Tropical Discoveries Sale offers the perfect opportunity.

Starting 27 September, this five-day sale will offer a Reduced Deposit, On Board Credit of up to $300 per Stateroom, and up to 2-for-1 Savings on sixteen select voyages, including Cunard’s iconic Transatlantic Crossings aboard flagship Queen Mary 2.

Tropical Discoveries voyages aboard Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth include:

Royal Caribbean recognized as top innovator by InformationWeek

Cruise Line also Ranked 18^th Overall of the Top 500 Companies

MIAMI, Sept. 25, 2012 – Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. received top-honors during the recent 24^th Annual InformationWeek 500 Conference – jumping to No. 18 in the coveted list of 500.

Known for its innovative information technology practices, Royal Caribbean also was the only cruise line honored in the Hospitality and Travel category for its Guest Portal iPad application deployed onboard its recently revitalized, 1,804-guest ship, Splendour of the Seas.

            “We are thrilled to be honored again in the InformationWeek 500,” said Bill Martin, vice president and Chief Information Officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Carnival Corporation reports improved results

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC REPORTS

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

MIAMI (September 25, 2012) – Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) announced non-GAAP net income of $1.2 billion, or $1.53 diluted earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2012. Reported U.S. GAAP net income, which includes unrealized gains on fuel derivatives of $136 million, was $1.3 billion, or $1.71 diluted earnings per share.  Net income for the third quarter of 2011 was $1.3 billion, or $1.69 diluted earnings per share.  Revenues for the third quarter of 2012 were $4.7 billion compared to $5.1 billion for the prior year. 

Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison noted that third quarter non-GAAP earnings were better than anticipated in the company’s June guidance due primarily to a combination of higher than expected revenue yields and lower than expected costs, partly due to the timing of certain expenses. 

Azamara Club Cruises announces 2014 voyages program

Hallmark Late Night and Overnight Stays Offer Up-market Travelers Immersive Adventures at Destinations Larger Ships Cannot Reach

MIAMI, Sept. 25, 2012 – Offering more late-night and overnight stays in port, the award-winning Azamara Club Cruises today announced the 2014 deployment of its twin boutique ships Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.

Up-market travelers can choose among 72 new voyages, ranging from four to 17 nights and visiting 240 fascinating destinations in 66 countries throughout Europe, the Far East, Central and South America, the Caribbean and the Western U.S. coast.

The cruise line’s new 2014 program enables guests to experience the nightlife of compelling destinations around the world that larger ships cannot reach, and includes a record-45 maiden port calls, such as the UNESCO World Geopark Langkawi, Malaysia; Maura in the Sultanate of Brunei; and the charming island-village Vila do Abraao, a favorite Brazilian getaway.

Variety Cruises invites Canadians to experience "wonders of Cuba"

(News Release)

 

NEW YORK (September 25, 2012) – The wonders of Cuba await with Variety Cruises’ new Sights and Sounds of Cuba itinerary starting December 21.

This seven-night voyage explores this island’s rich history, classic colonial architecture, virgin beaches and lush landscape by small ship, an ideal way to experience this “untouched” Caribbean island gem known for its vibrant music and cultural mystique.

Canadian passengers can experience Cuba up-close and personal aboard the Panorama three-masted sail cruiser.

New interactive social online game and sweepstakes highlights Celebrity Reflection

 

MIAMI – September 24, 2012 – Celebrity Cruises’ modern, luxurious ships are known for taking guests to exciting destinations while they enjoy airy staterooms, award-winning cuisine created by a James Beard-featured chef, stylish spaces in which to relax, and personalized service.

Celebrity’s new interactive, social experience, “Celebrity Reflection Launch to Luxury Game and Sweepstakes,” lets vacationers and travel agents have fun while learning about Celebrity Reflection, the latest in Celebrity’s award-winning Solstice Class of ships, debuting later this year. Players have the opportunity to win a cruise on Celebrity Reflection and weekly cash prizes.

Princess Cruises launches “The Campaign to Escape Completely”

Campaign Spreads Some Cheer by Offering Consumers a Chance to Get Away with Free Cruises

Now through November 6, Princess Cruises is offering consumers the chance
to win free cruises with "The Campaign to Escape Completely"

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – From taxes to unemployment to the upcoming election, Princess Cruises is stepping in to help people get away from it all with the launch of “The Campaign to Escape Completely” for a chance to win free cruises and gifts.

Now through November 6, Princess Cruises is focusing on what it does best - offering consumers the opportunity to escape completely by giving away free Caribbean and West Coast Getaway cruises. Plus, the line is offering a chance to win a cruise on the new Royal Princess through games and sweepstakes.

Sponsors enhance #SeaTweetup social media cruise

The weekend getaway sets sail on October 12, 2012 

  Norwegian Cruise Line today announced exclusive activities and events for the #SeaTweetup social media cruise hosted by well-known sponsors including the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (@VisitTheBahamas), MillerCoors (@MillerCoors), Bacardi (@Bacardi) and EPIC Miami – a Kimpton Hotel (@KimptonInFL). 

To set the tone for the interactive weekend, MillerCoors will host a poolside beer and food pairing session infused with trivia, as well as a photo opportunity. Guests can mix and mingle throughout the cruise at cocktail parties sponsored by Bacardi featuring popular Bacardi Rums and beverage tastings of new products such as the new spiced rum, Bacardi Oakheart. 

Princess Cruises announces winners of 2012 Alaska shore excursion awards

13th Annual C.R.U.I.S.E. Service Awards Recognize Top Local Tour Operators
as Rated by Passengers

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (September 21, 2012) – As the Alaska cruise season comes to a close each year, Princess Cruises celebrates the year’s favorite local tour operators with special shipboard ceremonies.

The winners of the line’s 13th annual C.R.U.I.S.E. service awards have just been announced, honoring the best shore excursion experiences and guides in each port on Alaska itineraries, based largely on passenger feedback throughout the season.

Disney Cruise Line arrives in Galveston to launch inaugural season from Texas

Disney Cruise Line Arrives in Galveston with Texas-sized Fanfare

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 22, 2012) - Today, the Disney Magic arrived in Galveston, kicking off the Disney Cruise Line inaugural season sailing from the Port of Galveston.

To salute its arrival to the Lone Star State, the Disney Magic donned a Texas-sized cowboy hat on the ship’s funnel as crew members and Disney characters waved from the upper decks of the ship.

In 2012 and 2013, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Galveston on a variety of itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas, with some cruises taking guests to Walt Disney World Resort and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Boo at the Zoo in New Orleans presented by Carnival Cruise Lines

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR A “SPOOKTACULAR” ANNUAL SAFE HALLOWEEN EVENT

October 19, 20, 26, and 27, 2012

Carnival Cruise Lines to Bring Even More Fun to New Orleans as Presenting Sponsor-Event benefits Children’s Hospital and Audubon Zoo

Tickets are now on sale for Boo at the Zoo Presented by Carnival Cruise Lines! The annual Audubon Zoo Halloween event for children up to age 12 features trick-or-treat houses with candy, a Ghost Train, a haunted house (scary and non-scary), games with prizes and entertainment and even more fun from Carnival Cruise Lines.

Royal Caribbean offers travel agents complimentary upgrades for clients

ROYAL CARIBBEAN REWARDS LOYALTY WITH BONUS COMMISSION

MIAMI, Sept. 20, 2012 –   Royal Caribbean International, known for its history of steadfast support of travel agents, is again re-affirming its dedication to travel agents by offering an additional two points of commission on all new 2012 bookings made from Sept. 21 – Oct. 5, 2012.

Additionally, furthering its Loyal to You Always commitment, the cruise line is arming travel agents with a complimentary upgrade offer on select Oasis of the Seas or Allure of the Seas’ sailings or short Bahamas cruises aboard Monarch of the Seas or Majesty of the Seas. Together, the offers will help Royal Caribbean’s valued travel agent partners boost their end-of-year sales by driving customers to their doorsteps and meet their business goals.

Princess Cruises' Endless Summer Sale offers cruise deals on warm weather getaways

Cruise Vacationers Can Save up to 50 Percent Plus Get Up to $100 Onboard Spending Money

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (September 20, 2012) – Princess Cruises is offering cruise deals on a variety of warm weather vacation destinations during the Endless Summer Sale beginning today and running through September 24, 2012.

Passengers can save up to 50 percent off of launch fares on Caribbean cruises as well as sailings to Hawaii, Tahiti, the Panama Canal and Australia & New Zealand, departing between January and May, 2013. Information on the more than 120 cruise vacations on sale can be found at http://www.princess.com/sale.

Silversea unveils itinerary for World Cruise 2014

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- September 20, 2012) Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has taken the wraps off its World Cruise 2014, an incomparable 113-day odyssey from Los Angeles to Barcelona aboard Silver Whisper, January 6 to April 30, 2014.

Silversea celebrates its 20th anniversary next year and will launch the festivities with this far-reaching and stimulating exploration of the world -- now available for reservation.

Guests aboard World Cruise 2014 will journey in unrivaled luxury as they visit 54 destinations in 29 countries, enjoying 12 overnight stays along the way. Silver Whisper will follow a westward path across the Pacific to call on lush Polynesia and lands Down Under, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Australia and New Zealand. From there, the ship will sail up to the remote island of Koror and then head west to spend a month exploring fascinating Asian cultures -- from China, Japan, and Vietnam to Thailand, Singapore, and India -- including three days in Yangon, Myanmar. Silver Whisper will conclude her global tour calling on modern capitals and ancient cities in the Mediterranean.

Carnival modifies U.S. travel agent commission tiers in 2013

(News Release)

FIRST TIME IN 10 YEARS TO REFLECT 50 PERCENT CAPACITY GROWTH

MIAMI (September 19, 2012) – Carnival Cruise Lines will modify its U.S. travel agent commission tiers for new bookings made as of January 1, 2013. The modification will not impact business sold during 2012 for 2013 or 2014 sailings. This is the first modification to commission tiers Carnival has made in the past 10 years and the majority of travel agents will not see a change to their current commission level. 

 With the new modifications in place, travel agent commission tiers will now be more in line with the marketplace, as well as reflect Carnival’s 50 percent capacity growth during the past 10 years. Additionally, in order to simplify the structure, the basis on which commission percentages are determined for each travel agency will be modified.

Commission percentages will continue to be based on volume instead of revenue and will be based on net cabin volume in 2013 rather than the current seven-day equivalent volume structure. This change is the result of agency feedback which indicated that the seven-day equivalent structure was cumbersome and confusing.

Celebrity Cruises appoints Gregory Purdy senior v-p, operations

MIAMI – September 18, 2012 -- Celebrity Cruises today announced the promotion of Gregory Purdy to Senior Vice President of Operations.

Previously Vice President of Marine Operations for the modern luxury line, Purdy now will complement his leadership of Celebrity's Marine Operations with that of Celebrity's Hotel Operations, including Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Casino, AquaSpa/fitness and retail operations.

Royal Caribbean expands its culinary offerings and experiences

Specialty Dining Packages to Debut on Serenade of the Seas While the Cruise Line’s Lafite Wine Tasting Experience Expands to Select Ships

MIAMI, September 17, 2012 – Royal Caribbean International continues to provide its guests with the ultimate vacation experience by enhancing its onboard dining options with the addition of Oasis-class amenities to even more ships.

Next in line is Serenade of the Seas, which is scheduled for an extensive revitalization this fall.
 
Serenade of the Seas will wow guests in December when she re-emerges from her dry dock with a new lineup of specialty restaurants, which will include Giovanni’s Table Italian restaurant, Izumi Asian cuisine and the intimate Chef’s Table dining experience, as well as dining packages for guests to enjoy all of them at incredible value.

Guests will have the option of choosing the Royal Choice Dining Package, which includes dinner at Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table and Izumi for $55 per guest, or the Chef’s Table Dining Package for $130 per guest, which includes all of the specialty restaurants as well as the Chef’s Table.

Celebrity Reflection has left the building at Meyer Werft shipyard

MIAMI – September 17, 2012 – Celebrity Cruises’ highly-anticipated Celebrity Reflection has left the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, and is sailing to the North Sea.

The 1,047-foot long, 121-foot wide vessel crossed the Ems River in about 10 hours – an amazing feat, considering the scale of the ship and the geography of the shipyard required the Captain to steer the ship backward, assisted by tugboats fore and aft.

 Preparations for the transit – known as “the conveyance” – include removing power lines and railway tracks that normally pass over the river, to allow the ship to pass through. The journey must take place when wind conditions are calm and at high tide to ensure ample depth of water in the river to prevent the possibility of the ship scraping its multi-million-dollar paintwork.                                                                                 

New York icons the Rockettes named Godmothers of Norwegian Breakaway

Partnership with the Rockettes, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and

Radio City Music Hall unveiled

Members of the legendary New York dance company will be part of the onboard guest experiences for select cruises

NEW YORK – September 18, 2012 – Norwegian Cruise Line and MSG Entertainment announced today that the Rockettes, one of New York’s most illustrious and beloved icons, will christen Norwegian Breakaway as the official Godmothers, further strengthening the ship’s strong ties to New York.

The christening ceremony will take place in New York City on May 8, 2013 on board Norwegian Breakaway, the largest ship to homeport year-round in New York.

The partnership with the Rockettes will include 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. As part of their role as Godmothers, two Rockettes will sail aboard the first six sailings of Norwegian Breakaway, beginning May 12, 2013, and the first sailing of each month thereafter, taking part in special events for guests to enjoy.

Offer of up to $250 to spend on board plus free upgrades, reduced deposits and more

NORWEGIAN INVITES GUESTS TO PLAN THEIR NEXT GREAT ESCAPE

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its “Freestyle Dash” limited time offer today, September 18, 2012. Guests have the opportunity to receive up to $250 in on-board credit (based on cruise length and stateroom category) when they book a cruise vacation to one of Norwegian’s exciting destinations by Friday, September 21, 2012.  

The offer, available for just four days, also provides reduced deposits on all of Norwegian’s sailings of three days or longer. Air credits are also available on select sailings. 

Cunard Line unveils world voyage passenger video series

Guest testimonials provide a glimpse into Cunard’s legendary ocean travel experience

13 September 2012 – With its 2014 World Voyage Season now on sale, Cunard Line today unveiled the first of a new video series highlighting some of their frequent World Voyage passengers.

In this first video, Michigan residents Richard and Pat Donahey (Belleville), Dr. Martin and Linda Weissman (Birmingham) and Maryland residents Peggy and Pamela Zirkle (Berwyn Heights) share some of their favourite World Voyage experiences and memories.

Highlights include guests sharing how they came to first sail on a Cunard World Voyage, and why they have frequently sailed since then; what they enjoy about life on board; and the many interesting people they’ve met over the years – from globally known personalities such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, to their many friendships that have developed with people from all over the world.

Receive $100 bonus on Alaska bookings

NORWEGIAN’S ALASKA BONUS DAYS SALE INVITES GUESTS TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THEIR WILD SIDE

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching an Alaska Bonus Days limited time sales event beginning today, September 13, 2012, offering incredible savings on an exciting Norwegian cruise vacations to Alaska. 

Guests who book a new Alaska cruise between today and September 15, 2012, will receive $100 per stateroom, regardless of category, to spend on board towards exciting Alaska shore excursions; treatments in Norwegian’s award-winning spas; dinners in any of Norwegian’s delicious specialty restaurants and more.

Top Chef: The Cruise on Celebrity Constellation

Richard Blais, Yigit Pura, Paul Qui and Fabio Viviani Round Out Impressive Roster of Talent Aboard Celebrity Constellation, April 11-15, 2013

NEW YORK, September 12, 2012 -- The recently announced “Top Chef: The Cruise” is gaining momentum with the addition of four new chef’testants to an already impressive roster of Top Chef Alums.

“Top Chef All Stars” winner Richard Blais, “Top Chef Just Desserts” season one winner Yigit Pura, “Top Chef: Texas” winner Paul Qui, and “Fan Favorite” winner Fabio Viviani join hosts Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons, along with 11 previously announced Alums, on this first-ever culinary journey setting sail April 11, 2013 from Miami, Florida.  For sneak peek of the cruise visit: http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/season-9/videos/all-chefs-on-deck

Cash in on Norwegian Epic savings, today only

(News Release)

  For One Day Only, Get $100 to Spend On Board Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its “Norwegian Epic Bonus Day” one day sale today, September 12, 2012.

For today only, guests have the opportunity to receive $100 on board credit, regardless of stateroom category, when they book any Norwegian Epic cruise vacation of six days or longer.

Guests who take advantage of this very limited time offer can use the credit towards an array of once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions in Europe or the Caribbean; treatments in the ship’s award-winning Mandara spa; dinner in any of Norwegian Epic’s delicious specialty restaurants, and much more.

Azamara Club Cruises picks up gold with Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly

(News Release)

MIAMI, September 6, 2012 – Azamara Club Cruises has been honored with six 2012 Magellan Awards by Travel Weekly, five of which are Gold.

The cruise line’s T.V. spot “Live in the Moment” and the “You’ll Love Where We Take You” webisode series received top recognition, while its 2012 Destination Guide, rich with photography and information, was honored for the second year in a row in the Direct Mail category.  Additionally, the Azamara Brand Essence video received a Silver.

“We are honored to be recognized by Travel Weekly’s Magellan Awards for a third consecutive year,” said Edie Bornstein, senior vice president of Sales and Marketing, Azamara Club Cruises. “Being recognized by Travel Weekly’s panel of judges affirms that Azamara is successfully conveying our distinctive experience to up-market travelers and the travel agent community in new and authentic ways.”

Royal Caribbean International offers first-ever Barbie experience at sea

Girls Can Enjoy Exclusive Themed Staterooms, Tea Parties, Fashion Shows and More

Aboard the Industry’s Newest Fleet

MIAMI and EL SEGUNDO, CALIF. – Sept. 10, 2012 – Royal Caribbean International, in partnership with Mattel, is bringing the signature pink style of Barbie, the world’s most popular doll, to the world’s most innovative cruise line.

Girls participating in the Barbie Premium experience will have a chance to dress up and walk the pink carpet to the admiration and applause of their family and friends in their very own fashion show. Girls also will have the chance to perform their amazing dance routine as well as display their Barbie fashion creation. It's the ultimate celebration of a truly memorable experience with Barbie and Royal Caribbean.

 The pop culture icon will come to the high seas for the very first time to invite girls to see what happens when Barbie becomes a part of their cruise vacation.

The all-new Barbie™ Premium Experience, available exclusively on Royal Caribbean ships, is making its stylish splash aboard the cruise line’s entire global fleet of 22 ships starting in January 2013 on select ships and rolling out to the remainder of the fleet by March 2013.

Royal Caribbean ships win gold in overall contemporary ship and eco-friendly ship categories

ROYAL CARIBBEAN WINS 2012 TRAVEL WEEKLY MAGELLAN AWARDS

MIAMI, Sept. 07, 2012 – Royal Caribbean International today announced that the cruise line has won 15 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards for the year – 10 of which are Gold.

Revitalized Radiance of the Seas, also known as the culinary ship, was singly recognized with the Gold Magellan Award for Overall Contemporary Ship, while Oasis of the Seas won its second consecutive Gold for Eco-Friendly “Green” Cruise Ship. Royal Caribbean’s new brand campaign “The Sea is Calling. Answer it Royally.” also was recognized with Gold, as were the campaign’s TV commercial and print ad.

 “We are much honored to be recognized again by Travel Weekly’s distinguished panel of industry experts and judges,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, Royal Caribbean International.

Azamara Club Cruises to refine destination immersion through fleetwide renovation

(News Release)

 

MIAMI, September 7, 2012 – Azamara Club Cruises, the cruise line that has set the bar for delivering destination immersive experiences to up-market travelers, today announced plans for the renovation of its two European boutique hotel-style ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.

Both ships are scheduled separately to enter drydock in 2012 and 2013, respectively, where each will receive a shipwide facelift and a new profile with a new dark-blue hull.

Guests will delight in the beautifully refreshed ships, along with Azamara’s signature exceptional personal service from every staff and crew member, exciting destinations around the world where larger ships cannot reach, and more late night and overnight stays in port to be immersed in the nightlife of the destinations.

Celebrity Cruises wins big in Travel Weekly's annual Magellan Awards

(News Release)

With 18 wins, modern luxury vacation brand takes more than any other cruise line

MIAMI – September 6, 2012 – Celebrity Cruises’ contemporary, unforgettable modern luxury vacation experience has just added 18 new awards to its roster. The annual Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honor the best in travel. With the announcement of the 2012 winners, Celebrity is celebrating a win of 11 Gold Magellan Awards and seven Silver Magellan Awards, more than any other cruise line this year.

Celebrity’s 2012 Gold Magellan Awards:
Cruise - Overall

• Blog - Solsticizing Blog
• Mobile App - Celebrity Xplorer
• Premium Ship - Celebrity Silhouette (Celebrity’s second consecutive win in this category)
• Large Cruise Ship - Celebrity Silhouette
• Loyalty Program - Captain’s Club

Norwegian Breakaway's hull artwork by legendary iconic artist Peter Max is unveiled

(News Release)

MIAMI – September 4, 2012 – Norwegian Cruise Line today revealed Norwegian Breakaway’s signature hull artwork designed by pop icon and America’s most popular living artist, Peter Max.

This is the first time Norwegian has commissioned a well-known artist to paint the hull artwork on one of its ships.

Launching in April 2013, Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship to homeport in New York City year-round.  Max’s signature artwork will cover approximately 40,000 square feet of Norwegian Breakaway’s hull.

Norwegian Cruise Line launches Spanish version of NCL.com website

(News Release)

Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that the company’s North American website and booking engine is now available in a Spanish language version.

Approximately 35 million residents in the United States speak Spanish as their native language and it is the world’s third most commonly used language on the Internet. Therefore, the launch of the Spanish language version of ncl.com reinforces Norwegian’s commitment to this audience by making it easier for Spanish-speaking guests to make a Norwegian cruise reservation. 

Norwegian sale offers up to $270 in on-board amenities

NORWEGIAN PERKS WITH LIMITED TIME OFFER

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its “Cruise Event Week” limited time offer today, Tuesday, September 4, 2012, giving guests the opportunity to earn additional on-board amenities when they book a new cruise vacation to one of Norwegian’s popular destinations including the tropical waters of the Caribbean, with fares starting at $399.*

Guests who make a new cruise reservation will receive a variety of on-board amenities, based on stateroom category, plus reduced deposits when they book any five-day or longer Norwegian cruise by Monday, September 10, 2012. Special resident rates are also available on select sailings. 

Celebrity chefs spice up Silversea voyages

(News Release
 

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- September 4, 2012) Renowned chefs and food writers are set to share some of the world's finest gastronomic traditions on seven upcoming Culinary Arts voyages aboard ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises.

These unique culinary theme cruises showcase the skills of culinary experts and award-winning chefs of top dining establishments from around the world, including the internationally acclaimed chefs of Relais & Châteaux, the distinguished international association of charming properties and gourmet restaurants.

Disney Cruise Line's expanded 2013 Itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas

(News Release)

CELEBRATION, Fla. (Sept. 5, 2012) – In early 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer a variety of new itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas,  providing even more cruise options for guests.

In addition to six-night Western Caribbean sailings, new choices include four-night Caribbean getaway cruises and eight-night itineraries that take guests to Walt Disney World Resort and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.

Cunard Line announces Cross the Pond Sale

(News Release)

Five-Day Sale Offers Complimentary Balcony Upgrades and
up to $150 in On Board Credit on Select Transatlantic Crossings

4 September 2012 – For those looking to experience a luxury cruise vacation aboard flagship Queen Mary 2 or Queen Victoria, Cunard’s Cross the Pond Sale, featuring the Line's iconic Transatlantic Crossings, provides just the opportunity.

Starting 6 September, the five-day sale will offer a reduced deposit, complimentary balcony upgrades and up to $150 in On Board Credit on this classic travel experience, with regularly scheduled Transatlantic service only offered by Cunard.

Princess Cruises offers new small-ship Caribbean sailing opportunity

Pacific Princess will Sail Eastern Caribbean on Special 10-day Itinerary in January

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 29, 2012) – Princess Cruises has just announced a unique new Caribbean cruise opportunity for travelers looking to get away from the cold January weather.

Featuring the intimate cruise experience of its small ship Pacific Princess, this 10-day sailing features the line’s only calls at the boutique ports of Tortola and St. Barthelemy in 2013.
 
Sailing from January 17-27, this Eastern Caribbean voyage also offers full-day calls in Antigua, St. Lucia and St. Kitts, which features a late evening departure for more time on the island.

Holland America Lines' Volendam rescues 70 stranded sightseers in Glacier Bay

News Release

SEATTLE -- While en route to Margerie Glacier in Glacier Bay, Alaska, Holland America Line's ms Volendam rescued 70 persons from a disabled sightseeing boat.

On Aug. 19. Volendam responded to a distress call at 11:16 a.m. local time from the 79-foot sightseeing vessel Baranof Wind, which struck a rock near Russell Island in Glacier Bay disabling its steering and propulsion and causing the boat to take on water.

The ship lowered a tender, which collected 69 tourists and one Glacier Bay park ranger and returned to Volendam, where the passengers were cleared through security, given a safety briefing and then provided a meal. Volendam continued on to Margerie Glacier following the rescue.

Princess Cruises announces name of next ship will be Regal Princess

Keel Laying Ceremony Marks Beginning of Construction

 

The official keel laying ceremony marks a construction milestone for Regal Princess,
a sister ship to Royal Princess, debuting in Spring 2014.

 SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 28, 2012) – Princess Cruises today marked the beginning of construction of the second of its new generation of ships with the official keel laying ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. At the same time the line announced that the ship’s name will be Regal Princess.

  The vessel, a sister ship to Royal Princess, will debut in Spring 2014. The company and shipyard officials started the countdown to the ship’s launch today as the keel – the bottommost part of the ship – was ceremoniously lowered into position in the building dock.