Out To Sea: June 2013

Friday, June 28, 2013

Enter The Holland America Line 'Scenic South America' Pinterest Sweepstakes

SEATTLE, June 26, 2013 -- Holland America Line has launched a new "Scenic South America" Pinterest sweepstakes that will award one randomly selected winner an American Express gift card valued at $500.

Participants can visit the Scenic South America tab on Holland America Line's Facebook page and choose their favorite South America highlight photo from a selection of six beautiful images.

Entrants then provide the required information and click submit, which will pin the image to one of their personal Pinterest boards. In order to be eligible to win, entrants must also follow Holland America Line's Pinterest Board (www.pinterest.com/halcruises).

Passengers Can Save Up to 40 Percent from June 27 – July 8

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (June 27, 2013) – Princess Cruises is celebrating Independence Day with a “Red, White & Blue Sale” featuring cruise deals on North American departures.

The June 27 to July 8 event offers cruise discounts of up to 40 percent, plus up to $100 free onboard spending money.

More than 100 cruise departures are featured in the sale, including cruises to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Panama Canal, the California Coast, Mexico, Canada & New England and the West Coast. Cruises depart between September and December 2013.

Royal Caribbean heats up summer with Super Saturday Sale

(News Release)

Guests Enjoy Up to $50 Onboard Credit on all July 1 through September 30, 2013, Sailings

MIAMI, June 27, 2013 – Summer goes hand-in-hand with vacation and there’s no better way to create unforgettable memories this season than with a Royal Caribbean International cruise.

This Saturday, June 29, the cruise line known for “WOW”-ing guests with its first-at-sea concepts is offering an onboard credit of up to $50 per stateroom for guests to enjoy when sailing between July 1 and September 30, 2013.

Guests can apply their onboard credit toward a range of new specialty dining options, adventurous shore excursions, or a rejuvenating spa treatment to make their Royal Caribbean vacation extra special.

With summer just underway, there is still the time to finalize an exciting family vacation on a Royal Caribbean ship, where amazing destinations such as the grandeur of the Alaskan frontier, the lush and laid-back Caribbean or Europe’s fascinating cultures and heritage are delivered with the cruise line’s world-renowned GOLD Anchor Service.

Carnival announces ship deployments for Port Canaveral and New Orleans for 2014

MIAMI (June 27, 2013) – Carnival Cruise Lines today announced new ship deployments taking effect in 2014 in several key markets resulting in exciting new product offerings from Port Canaveral, Fla., and New Orleans.

Carnival will now feature the widest selection of seagoing vacation choices in these markets aboard some of the most innovative ships in cruising.

Carnival Sunshine, which recently completed a massive $155 million transformation, will be repositioned from New Orleans to Port Canaveral beginning in April 2014. This move will allow Carnival to continue to offer attractive new options from Port Canaveral and marks the first time the line will have a ship in Central Florida featuring all of the fantastic Fun Ship 2.0 bar, dining and entertainment innovations.

Amazing entertainment on Norwegian Getaway featuring

Two Broadway Shows and More

NEW YORK – Norwegian Cruise Line continued its legacy of innovating cruise ship entertainment as it announced that the seven-time Tony Award nominated musical LEGALLY BLONDE will be featured on Norwegian Getaway, along with an additional Broadway show: the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR and an all-new stand-up comedy program in partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the largest producer of comedians in the world.

The line also introduced all of the varied and exciting entertainment acts and venues that will debut on the ship, including Howl at the Moon at Headliners Comedy Club. These exciting entertainment experiences are in addition to Norwegian Getaway’s Illusionarium and Grammy Experience, as previously announced.

Roles of chairman and CEO to be split by Carnival Corporation & PLC

(News Release)

MIAMI (June 25, 2013) – Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) today announced its plan to split the roles of chairman and chief executive officer.

Micky Arison will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board of the company and Arnold W. Donald, a highly experienced and respected business leader who has served on the company’s board for the past 12 years, will assume the CEO role effective July 3.

Carnival Corporation & PLC reports second-quarter results, 2013

(News Release)

MIAMI (June 25, 2013) – Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) announced non-GAAP net income of $72 million, or $0.09 diluted EPS for the second quarter of 2013 compared to non-GAAP net income for the second quarter of 2012 of $159 million, or $0.20 diluted EPS.

For the second quarter of 2013, reported U.S. GAAP net income, which included net unrealized losses on fuel derivatives of $31 million, was $41 million, or $0.05 diluted EPS. For the second quarter of 2012, reported U.S. GAAP net income, which included unrealized losses on fuel derivatives of $145 million, was $14 million, or $0.02 diluted EPS. Revenues for the second quarter of 2013 were $3.5 billion, in line with the prior year.

Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison noted that second quarter earnings were slightly better than May guidance due primarily to the timing of selling and administrative expenses.

New and noteworthy Norwegian cruise vacations and hot cruise deals

FEATURED PROMOTIONS:

Ø Hawaii Promotion: Free Balcony upgrades on all 2013-2014 Pride of America sailings in Hawaii, through July 6, 2013.

Ø Airfare Credits: Receive up to $1,000 in airfare credits on select sailings.

Ø The Haven and Suites: Receive up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom for the Haven and Suites fleet-wide for reservations booked nine months or greater prior to sailing, through December 31, 2013.

FEATURED SAILINGS:

Silversea introduces complimentary streamed movies for guest mobile devices

(News Release)

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- June 25, 2013) In a cruise industry first, ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has launched a complimentary service that provides streaming movies and live television news broadcasts to guests' mobile devices aboard Silver Cloud.

The service can be accessed on any Wi-Fi-enabled laptop, smartphone, tablet, or even e-book reader -- anything with a browser.

It includes access to an extensive library of classic and recent Academy Award-winning feature films, with more than 80 per cent of the movies offered in five languages: English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish.

Carnival Cruise Lines introduces travel agent outreach program

‘CARNIVAL CONVERSATIONS’

Series of Events and Activities Designed to Strengthen Dialogue with Travel Agents

MIAMI (June 24, 2013) - Carnival Cruise Lines is launching a new travel agent outreach program, Carnival Conversations, designed to increase dialogue and strengthen ties with travel agents through road show events, agency visits and daily feedback opportunities on GoCCL.com, the company’s travel agent Internet portal.

Beginning July 1, the line will launch a marketing campaign to build awareness for the program and a road show series will kick off in New York City on July 12.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (June 24, 2013) – Princess Cruises has appointed Gordon Ho as senior vice president of marketing. In this newly-created position he will lead the company’s global marketing, public relations and digital activities.

Ho brings extensive marketing experience to his new role with Princess, in areas including worldwide creative development, brand management, partnership marketing, digital marketing, CRM and public relations.

“We’re delighted to welcome Gordon to Princess and look forward to his contributions supporting our expansion into new international markets as well as strengthening the Princess brand in our established markets including North America, UK and Australia,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises’ executive vice president. He reports directly to Swartz.

Newly enhanced “Open Booking” option gives greatest flexibility and up to $200 onboard credit for guests and repeat business opportunity for travel agents

NEW ROYAL CARIBBEAN CHOICEAIR OFFERS GUESTS LOWEST AIRFARE GUARANTEE, CHOICE, 24-7 SUPPORT, AND PEACE OF MIND

MIAMI, June 21, 2013 – Royal Caribbean International today announced its new Lowest Airfare Guarantee with Royal Caribbean ChoiceAir, the cruise line’s flight booking system for guests looking for the best airfare and flight options for their cruise.

If guests find a cheaper airfare within 24 hours of booking their flights on ChoiceAir, Royal Caribbean will refund them 110 percent of the difference in onboard credit to spend on their cruise vacation.

Separately, enhancements to the NextCruise Open Booking option now offers guests the greatest flexibility, as well as an onboard booking bonus, when making a future reservation while on their Royal Caribbean vacation.

Un-Cruise Adventures debuts four adventure cruise itineraries in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés

Inaugural season savings of $400 travel credit per couple on Mexico cruises

Seattle, WA, June 18, 2013 – Beginning in December 2013, Un-Cruise Adventures’ 64-guest Safari Voyager will offer four new Mexico cruise itineraries in the marine-life rich waters of the Sea of Cortés.

Two different weeklong itineraries sail roundtrip from San José del Cabo, another sails roundtrip from Guaymas and a two-week cruise sails between San José del Cabo and Guaymas. The vessel will sail Luxury Adventures year-round in Mexico’s Sea of Cortés.

This is also the inaugural season of the newly acquired Safari Voyager which is undergoing renovations before joining the Un-Cruise Adventures fleet. To celebrate, travelers making a new reservation by August 2, 2013 for a Mexico cruise departing December 2013-June 2014 earn a $400 travel credit per couple.

Royal Caribbean International's Enchantment of the Seas begins year-round service from Port Canaveral

(News Release)

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean International has introduced Enchantment of the Seas to her new homeport of Port Canaveral, where she replaces Monarch of the Seas and continues the cruise lines year-round, three- and four-night Bahamas itineraries.

Enchantment of the Seas joins Freedom of the Seas at Port Canaveral, and her arrival marks the first time in four years that Royal Caribbean has introduced a new ship to the port.

Perfect for corporate and incentive travel as well as for everyday vacationers, Enchantment of the Seas delivers Royal Caribbean’s signature onboard amenities on exciting short Bahamas getaways that only the cruise line can deliver.

Holland America Line's new Pinnacle Class ship to feature interiors designed by two leading firms

(News Release)

SEATTLE -- Holland America Line has selected two leading firms to create the interior spaces of the line's new 99,000-ton ship that is slated for delivery in February 2016.

The first in a new Pinnacle Class of vessel, the ship will showcase decors by designer Adam D. Tihany and designer and architect Bjorn Storbraaten.

Tihany will join Storbraaten, who successfully worked with Holland America Line on ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam, in designing the ship's public rooms.

The new ship will feature exciting new public areas and dining venues, as well as a stunning onboard ambiance created in partnership with these two leading firms.

Several new concepts are under development that have never been seen before on a Holland America Line ship, and as they evolve more details will be revealed.

Royal Caribbean International reveals ground-breaking Quantum-Class ships

North Star, Quantum of the Seas’ most distinctive feature, takes Royal Caribbean guests to new heights on a breath-taking journey more than 300 feet above sea level.

Unmatched Design, Skydiving Experience, Bumper Cars, Virtual Balconies and More

MIAMI – Building on a legacy of more than 40 years of innovation and creative design, Royal Caribbean International has unveiled first details of the next generation of cruise vacations – Quantum cruising.

The Quantum class of ships will take a dramatic leap forward, introducing more game-changing “firsts at sea” such as a skydiving experience, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey; cutting-edge transformative venues including the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.

Royal Caribbean International announces Transatlantic sailing from Southampton on newest ship, Quantum of the Seas

MIAMI – Hot on the heels of the recent Oasis of the Seas announcement, Royal Caribbean International has announced that Quantum of the Seas will be making its inaugural 8-night westbound transatlantic voyage from Southampton on November 2, 2014, arriving in the New York area at Cape Liberty Port, New Jersey, on November 10.

This is another exciting first for the port of Southampton, which will also play host in 2014 to the world’s largest cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas, on its first ever European season and transatlantic sailing out of a UK port of call, which generated the highest ever volume of pre-booking registrations ever seen by Royal Caribbean International.

Quantum of the Seas will offer even more game-changing “firsts at sea” and guests will be thrilled by the unprecedented “WOWs” on-board, including a skydiving experience, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air; cutting-edge venues such as the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars and roller skating and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.

Guests can choose flexible or restricted fares for cruise bookings

SEATTLE -- Holland America Line has launched the "Flight Ease" air program that allows cruise guests to easily and affordably select from two competitive airfare pricing options depending on their travel needs: Flexible Fares to fit any schedule or Restricted Fares that are generally more cost-effective for those sure of their travel plans.

Guests who book air with the new Flight Ease program enjoy more options, more flexibility and competitive fares along with Holland America Line's assurances on air travel versus booking through another travel website.

Flight Ease is available for departures from fall 2013 and beyond.

N E W S

Free Stateroom Upgrades from Inside to Balcony

Fares from $799 on Select 2013 Sailings into and out of New York

WHAT: Through 31 July 2013, Cunard Line’s Big Balcony Event offers Balcony staterooms for the price of an Inside stateroom. The promotion is available on select voyages into and out of New York, including 2013 Transatlantic Crossings, World Voyage segments and sailings to Canada and through Scandinavia on board Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth.

Big Balcony Event voyages include:

Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing, 7 days, 27 July 2013:
The classic Crossing from New York to Southampton aboard flagship Queen Mary 2. Fares start from $799.
Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing, 9 days, 15 August 2013:
This extended Queen Mary 2 Crossing sails from New York to Hamburg, Germany. Fares start from $1,199.

New and noteworthy Norwegian Cruise vacations and hot cruise deals

FEATURED PROMOTIONS:

Ø Super Summer DASH: Receive up to $250 (based on cruise length and stateroom category) to spend on board any Norwegian cruise vacation, through June 21, 2013.

Ø Hawaii Promotion: Free Balcony upgrades on all 2013-2014 Pride of America sailings in Hawaii, through July 6, 2013.

Ø Airfare Credits: Receive up to $1,000 in airfare credits on select sailings.

FEATURED SAILINGS:

Ø Norwegian Epic: $479 Best Available Inside/person: June 23, 2013; Seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, Spain with ports of call including Naples, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Provence (Marseille), France; Palma, Majorca, Spain

Royal Caribbean's newly revitalized Navigator of the Seas to wow Galveston

YEAR-ROUND SAILINGS STARTING WINTER 2013

New Features to include FlowRider Surf Simulator and First-Ever Virtual Balconies

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean International, the cruise line known for first at-sea innovations, announced today that it is basing 3,114-guest Navigator of the Seas year-round from the Texas port city of Galveston.

The Voyager-class ship that first introduced ice skating at sea will sail seven-night western Caribbean itineraries after emerging from an extensive drydock revitalization in February 2014.

During her drydock, signature Royal Caribbean features, such as the FlowRider surf simulator and dining venues like Giovanni’s Table, Park Café and Izumi Asian Cuisine will be added. At the same time, new features such as Virtual Balconies for select interior staterooms, new panoramic oceanview staterooms – featuring full-length, floor-to-ceiling windows and unique new dining and entertainment concepts will be introduced to surprise and delight guests.

Royal Princess offers casual dining options for every craving

Newest Princess Cruises Ship Features Sweet Treats, Famous Pizza and Ocean Treasures

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – In addition to its many elegant dining options, the new Royal Princess will feature a wide selection of casual eateries where passengers can grab a snack or enjoy a relaxed meal.

The expanded atrium on the new Princess Cruises vessel will offer a variety of options, including Alfredo’s pizzeria, the new Ocean Terrace seafood bar, and the favorite International Café.

Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy ice cream and crepes at Gelato, while tea lovers will relish the new tea tower. The poolside Trident Grill will transform into a traditional smokehouse barbecue in the evenings and the Outrigger Bar will feature a range of margaritas accompanied by made-to-order Mexican fare.

WORLD’S LARGEST AND MOST INNOVATIVE CRUISE SHIP OASIS OF THE SEAS TO SAIL EUROPE IN 2014

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean International has announced that the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship Oasis of the Seas will be sailing Europe for a short autumn season in 2014.

Renowned worldwide for its award-winning Caribbean cruise vacations, Oasis of the Seas now will offer a sampling of its unrivaled Oasis-class experience in Europe.

For an extensive collection of webisodes detailing the variety of experiences aboard Oasis of the Seas, please visit http://tinyurl.com/bw585wa

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- June 17, 2013) Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has opened the books on its World Cruise 2015.

This grandest of travel adventures will commence on January 5, 2015, when the elegant, all-suite Silver Whisper is set to embark on a 115-day epic voyage, encircling the world and embracing the cultures of five continents, 30 countries and 50 unique destinations.

Departing Los Angeles with no more than 382 guests on board, Silver Whisper will sail the warm waters of the South Pacific to explore the idyllic isles of French Polynesia, then head west to the scenic wonders of Australia, and north to the marvels of the South China Sea.

From there, the journey continues to Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and across the Indian Ocean to the glistening sands of the Seychelles. Silver Whisper then traces a course to some of Africa's most intriguing destinations, including Mombasa, Zanzibar, Cape Town, Walvis Bay and Dakar. The voyage concludes with a leisurely Atlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale, highlighted by stopovers in the sunny Caribbean islands of St. Lucia, St. Bart's and Puerto Rico.

Numerous Touches and Innovations Marked the Ship’s Debut

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – When Royal Princess launched earlier this month, the ship attracted attention for its many striking features, including a soaring atrium and the dramatic over-the-water SeaWalk.

But what may escape immediate notice are the myriad of unique innovations throughout the ship that will enhance the Princess Cruises experience that cruisers have come to know and love.

Including technological advancements, fresh entertainment offerings, new taste treats and expansions of the classic Princess experience, these new features will bring an extra level of excitement for passengers when the ship sets sail.

Monkfish and Scallops in Brown Butter, Spinach and Parmesan Ravioli,
and Smoked Bacon Velouté, from the new Verandah Restaurant menu

17 June 2013 – A new alternative dining venue, The Verandah, opened aboard Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria for her St. Petersburg & Baltic Explorer cruise, which departed Southampton on 1 June 2013.

The 100-seat alternative dining venue replaces the Todd English Restaurant and is based on the same concept as the popular and award-wining Verandah Restaurant on Queen Elizabeth, with a slightly different menu with a sophisticated, contemporary and relaxed theme.

"Queen Victoria's new Verandah Restaurant is an exciting addition to the Cunard culinary offering, which now includes some of the most highly-rated dining at sea and no fewer than twelve different dining venues,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line.

Vacationers to have most choices of innovative cruise ships and Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES EXPLORER OF THE SEAS’ 2014 HOLIDAY SEASON

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean International has announced new Caribbean cruises for Explorer of the Seas from November 2014 through early January 2015.

After eight consecutive years dedicated to the New York metropolitan area with year-round sailings from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, N.J., Explorer of the Seas will redeploy to Port Canaveral, Fla., to offer a range of four- to nine-night Bahamas, and Western and Southern Caribbean vacations.

Throughout the short season, Explorer of the Seas will join Freedom of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas at Port Canaveral to offer the most ships and itinerary options to The Bahamas and the Caribbean from Central Florida’s Space Coast.

Windstar Cruises announces Dreams of Tahiti voyages for 2014

Discover Polynesian history through ancient marae sites, dance, and tikis

Seattle - Windstar Cruises announces 2014 Dreams of Tahiti voyages.

Wind Spirit, the line’s newly renovated 148-passenger sailing yacht, will sail seven-day voyages from the capital city of Papeete, Tahiti, beginning May 2, 2014, with stops through the Society Islands of Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea, Huahine, and Bora Bora.

Dreams of Tahiti will sail through to November 7, 2014, with voyages starting from $2,799 per person.

Tales Include Finding Life-Long Love, Mistaken Celebrity Identity and a Group of “Bobs”

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Princess Cruises’ blog, “Linked by the Sea” has chronicled a series of stories of people who made new connections on a cruise. The new tales include a romantic love story, a case of mistaken identity that led to new friends, and a group brought together by having the same name.
Each week the blog, found at LinkedByTheSea.com, illustrates how a cruise not only offers a relaxing retreat from which to explore the world, but often includes the discovery of new friends that lead to meaningful or lifelong relationships. Both passengers and crew tell about people they connect with at sea.

Princess Cruises' 2014 Europe season has five ships sailing

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Princess Cruises' 2014 Europe cruise season includes the new Regal Princess that launched this month.

In total, five ships – including the line’s two newest vessels – will sail on a variety of cruise itineraries throughout the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

A sister ship to the Royal Princess is Regal Princess to debut on June 2, 2014 with a seven-day inaugural voyage from Venice to Barcelona – including calls in Kotor (Montenegro), Rome, Florence/Pisa, and Toulon (France, for Provence).

Eight vessels sail Active, Luxury and Heritage Adventure cruises

Seattle — Un-Cruise Adventures’ expanding fleet offers more departures and a larger variety of cruise itineraries in 2014 than any previous year.

Eight vessels carrying 22-88 guests specialize in small-group adventure cruises in Alaska, Hawaiian Islands, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, Columbia & Snake Rivers and Coastal Washington & British Columbia.

A new all Washington itinerary, the addition of an eighth vessel to sail year-round in Mexico, and new Heritage Adventures in Alaska and on the Columbia and Snake Rivers significantly increases the line’s offerings in 2014.

Veterans history project to collect wartime stories aboard Princess Cruises’ veterans sailing

Company CEO Launches Initiative by Recording His Vietnam Experience for
Library of Congress Collection

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Representatives from the Veterans History Project will be sailing aboard Princess Cruises’ first veterans cruise in November to facilitate the recording of first-hand interviews with passengers who served during times of conflict.

Princess President and CEO Alan Buckelew shares his experiences as a veteran during the
Memorial Day ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

These stories will be added to the Project’s ongoing collection of wartime memories that are preserved and made accessible by the Library of Congress.

Princess Cruises president and CEO Alan Buckelew kicked off the initiative in Washington DC by recording his own story as a soldier in Vietnam. Buckelew was in the nation’s capital to speak at the Memorial Day ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Windstar Cruises offers complimentary Enchanting Castles & Gardens package

Seattle, June 12, 2013 – Windstar Cruises, a leader in yacht-style cruising, offers a chance to discover England’s exotic gardens and mystic castles with a complimentary package.

This limited time offer is only available with the purchase of the July 11, 2013 seven-day Idyllic British Isles cruise on Wind Surf and is valued at $799.

From an exquisite five-star lunch in St. Mawes’ legendary Tresanton Hotel to the stunning scenery of Snowdonia National Park, the eccentric elegance of the Plas Newydd estate and a gracious cream tea in the gardens of Caerhays Castle the Enchanting Castles & Gardens package includes:

Norwegian’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Maria Miller, Norwegian Breakaway’s Captain Evans Hoyt, Marcia Gay Harden and Condé Nast Traveler Vice President & Publisher Carolyn Kremins welcomed families onboard Norwegian Breakaway.

NEW YORK – June 14, 2013 – Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship that is making headlines as a “game changer” for the cruise industry, hosted the Conde Nast Traveler Hot List Family Event on Sunday, June 9 while in port at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

More than 125 parents and children enjoyed a fun-filled day onboard with special guest Academy Award-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden and Condé Nast Traveler vice president & publisher Carolyn Kremins.

Guests were treated to special performances from some of Norwegian Breakaway’s incredible entertainment including Nickelodeon, Rock of Ages, Cirque Dreams & Dinner: Jungle Fantasy, The Second City and Slam Allen. The children also got to experience Splash Academy and the parents explored 678 Ocean Place and got a chance to visit The Haven by Norwegian, an exclusive suite complex at the top of the ship.

Twelve Alaska overland options highlight Denali and Yukon in 2014

SEATTLE - Holland America Line is rebranding its popular Alaska CruiseTour program with the new name Land+Sea Journeys.

This change reflects substantial program updates designed to appeal to the desires of today's travelers. With more time in the marquee destinations and less overland travel time, Holland America Line guests will have more opportunities than ever to explore and personalize their Great Land vacations.

Land+Sea Journeys offer the benefit of combining the "must-see" of Denali National Park with the "seldom seen" wonders of the Yukon, including one- or two-night stays in the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush Country.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S 2014-15 SHORT CARIBBEAN AND BAHAMAS CRUISES OFFER TROPICAL GETAWAYS FOR OVER-WORKED AND WEATHER-WORN

MIAMI – One need not take a whole week off to enjoy an exciting Royal Caribbean cruise to some of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations.

The cruise line renowned for its fleet of the world’s most innovative cruise ships today announced three- to five-night Caribbean and Bahamas cruises throughout 2014-15, sailing from Tampa, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades and Miami.

Nearly all of these Royal Caribbean ships have recently undergone extensive revitalizations, already offering guests up to 10 onboard dining options, captivating and spectacular signature entertainment in unexpected spaces, and onboard amenities that offer greater convenience and connectivity.

Disney Cruise Line guests and crew take part in first AquaDucky Derby fundraiser at sea

(News Release)

$14,000 Donated To Make-A-Wish International

CELEBRATION, Fla. (June 6, 2013) – Thousands of Disney Cruise Line guests and crew members recently volunteered their time on all four ships to take part in the first “AquaDucky Derby” rubber duck races in the ships’ pools and famous water coasters to raise nearly $14,000 for Make-A-Wish International.

The events saluted the 30th anniversary of the Disney VoluntEARS program, which provides opportunities for Disney cast and crew members to donate their time to worthy causes around the world.

The one-of-a-kind fundraiser brought together crew members and guests, who purchased yellow rubber ducks to decorate and then enter in a water-filled race aboard the ships. Races took place in Goofy’s Pool on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, while those onboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy utilized the AquaDuck, the first water coaster at sea exclusive to Disney Cruise Line.

CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION TO ADD AQUACLASS, BLU AND ADDITIONAL ATTRIBUTES FEATURED ON TRIO OF MILLENNIUM CLASS SISTER SHIPS

MIAMI – Celebrity Cruises is bringing its $140-million “Solsticizing” initiative – the modern luxury brand’s coined term for adding onto its four Millennium Class ships some of the most popular venues and experiences found on its five award-winning Solstice Class ships – full circle.

This is as Celebrity Constellation has received the full complement of Solstice Class-inspired features and attributes guests love on the ship’s three Millennium Class sister ships.

Celebrity Constellation in 2010 was the first of the four to be Solsticized, with the addition of the specialty restaurant Tuscan Grille, new staterooms, renovated bathrooms, new bedding, new flat-screen TVs, entirely refreshed public spaces, and new color schemes throughout the ship.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S WOW SALE EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND

MIAMI, June 13, 2013 – Due to popular demand, Royal Caribbean International’s three-day WOW Sale has now been extended to a spectacular five-day cruise deals event.

For two more days, the cruise line is offering vacationers up to $200 onboard credit and reduced deposits as low as $50 per stateroom for all sailings, departing from September 1, 2013 through August 31, 2014.

Royal Caribbean’s WOW Sale applies to all new individual bookings made from June 10 through 14, 2013, and offers vacationers $50 onboard credit per stateroom and $50 reduced deposit for five-night or shorter itineraries; $100 onboard credit per stateroom and $125 reduced deposit for six- to nine-night itineraries; and $200 onboard credit per stateroom and $225 reduced deposit for 10-night or longer itineraries. More information about the extended WOW sale can be found at www.RoyalCaribbean.com/WOWSale.

Royal Caribbean also is coming to the rescue for the last-minute summer vacation planner. From June 16 through 23, vacationers can enjoy up to 20 percent savings on select sailings departing throughout July and August 2013 with the Royal Caribbean Summer Sail Away Extended Sales Event. A list of applicable Bermuda, Bahamas and Caribbean summer sailings will be available on Sunday, June 16 at www.RoyalCaribbean.com/SummerSale.

Passengers Can Celebrate with Free Champagne and Gratuities during June 6-17 Sale

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. – Princess Cruises is celebrating the debut of the new Royal Princess cruise ship with a special sale offering festive extras to passengers booking one of more than 80 sailings.

Passengers can toast the new ship or celebrate their own special occasion with a free bottle of champagne, and on sailings of eight days or more will also receive free gratuities.

The sale includes cruise vacations to destinations around the world, including Australia & New Zealand, the South Pacific, Panama Canal, Europe, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico and the California coast.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge cuts the ribbon to release the bottle of champagne to
officially name Royal Princess.

SOUTHAMPTON, UK (June 13, 2013) – In a spectacular ceremony today in Southampton, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge named the new ship Royal Princess when she released a bottle of champagne that smashed against its hull.

Standing on the naming platform with the ship’s Captain Tony Draper, The Duchess pronounced, “I name this ship Royal Princess. May God bless her and all who sail in her.”

She then cut the rope that sent a giant Nebuchadnezzar-size bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne toward the ship, officially welcoming Royal Princess into the fleet of Princess Cruises, one of the world’s largest international cruise lines.

Musical salute welcomed Royal Princess to Southampton

Ship’s Arrival Marked the Start of Inaugural Celebration

SOUTHAMPTON, UK – A musical salute provided a spectacular welcome for Royal Princess to Southampton as the new cruise ship began a week-long series of special inaugural events.

British actor, director and writer Simon Callow orchestrated the Southampton University Brass Band to serenade the new Princess Cruises ship with a rendition of "God Save The Queen" as the vessel sailed into the harbor. Royal Princess will be officially named in Southampton on Thursday. June 13 by The Duchess of Cambridge.

The unprecedented musical welcome, conducted by Callow, was answered back by Royal Princess with its own special horn that plays the first notes of the theme song from the TV show "The Love Boat."

Holland America Line goes 'On Location'

New Activity Program To Immerse Guests In The Culture And Activities Unique To Each Cruising Region

Local experts bring destination-centric experiences on board

SEATTLE -- From steel drum lessons in the Caribbean to tai chi on deck with a master in Asia, Holland America Line is bringing local culture and cuisine on board like never before through its new "On Location" program.

The itinerary sets the scene for guests to indulge in localized experiences that make time on board as culturally enriching as visiting the ports of call.

Carnival Cruise Lines debuts "The Fun Shops" online retail section

OFFERS WIDE ARRAY OF GIFT OPTIONS FOR CARNIVAL GUESTS

MIAMI – Shopping on Carnival.com, the cruise industry’s most-visited website, just got easier and a lot more fun with the launch of Carnival Cruise Lines’ revamped online retail section – “The Fun Shops,” available at www.carnival.com/funshops

The redesign includes a totally new “look and feel,” as well as simpler navigation choices like shopping by product, by occasion or one of Carnival’s four exclusive branded options: Cruise Cash, Cherry on Top, Funnel Gear and Portside Liquor.

Guests Booking a Destination-Immersive Voyage in June and July Can Receive Onboard Credit if They Find a Lower Fare

MIAMI – Azamara Club Cruises knows that a vacation begins, not when guests embark a ship, but from the moment they start to plan their destination immersive voyage with the up-market cruise line.

With that in mind, Azamara is offering guests a cruise credit equal to their airfare if they book air through its customized online air booking tool, ChoiceAir, during June and July. Through this “Get Money Back” offer with ChoiceAir, the cruise line is ensuring guests receive the best value with the best service possible.

Moreover, Azamara Club Cruises is so sure that their airfares are the lowest, that if guests find a lower airfare within 24 hours of booking their flights the cruise line will refund 110 percent of the difference as an onboard credit to use during their voyage. Additionally, guests will enjoy up to 50 percent savings on the voyage fare, and 25 percent off Land Discoveries shore excursions when booked online prior to their sailing.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS COLLABORATION WITH JAMES BEARD AWARD-WINNING CHEF MICHAEL SCHWARTZ

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean International has announced the expansion of its collaboration with James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz to feature seasonal tasting menus aboard Allure of the Seas’ fine dining restaurant, 150 Central Park, building on his work with sister-ship Oasis of the Seas since 2011.

Known for a commitment to cooking sustainably at his flagship Miami restaurant, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Schwartz will continue to help the cruise line select and integrate fresh, high quality ingredients into 150 Central Park’s supply chain by leveraging his relationships with South Florida farmers and beyond.

Silversea offers 11 voyages perfectly paired to the interests of wine lovers

Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is rolling out a new Wine Series collection of 11 voyages this year designed for wine enthusiasts.

On each wine cruise, discerning travelers with a passion for fine wines will enjoy sampling great vintages and learning about the tradition and art of winemaking in special tastings and lectures conducted by wine professionals, vineyard owners, and winemakers.

Depending on the itinerary, guests may also have the chance to explore some of the world's most celebrated wine regions on optional guided shore excursions. On board each of Silversea's luxurious cruise ships, guests also enjoy an extensive complimentary selection of fine red and white wine pairings with both lunch and dinner.

CELEBRITY CRUISES PRESENTS MOST WIDELY VARIED MODERN LUXURY CARIBBEAN VACATION COLLECTION

MIAMI – Celebrity Cruises has announced the next set of itineraries in “Celebrity’s World Tour,” the brand’s guest-inspired, destination-rich, modern luxury vacations to all seven continents of the world in 2014-15.
Opening today with “Priority Access” and exclusive offers for members of Celebrity’s Captain’s Club loyalty program are Celebrity’s 2014-15 Caribbean getaways.

Six sleek ships will provide guests with Celebrity’s modern luxury ambience combined with the sun kissed shorelines and charming island experiences available only in the Caribbean, on a collection of itineraries visiting 25 destinations in 19 countries.

Among the numerous attributes of every Celebrity ship in the region is the option of the line's popular, spa-inspired AquaClass accommodations, whose guests enjoy exclusive access to the specialty restaurant, Blu, and complimentary access to the Persian Garden and Relaxation Room in the AquaSpa.

Norwegian Cruise Line now offers certified Angus Beef brand steaks at sea

MIAMI – June 11, 2013 – Norwegian Cruise Line announced today it is now the only cruise line to serve Certified Angus Beef^® brand steaks, the world’s leading Angus brand and consumers’ top choice for premium beef.

The flavorful top-quality cuts are only available at sea on Norwegian, in Cagney’s and Le Bistro restaurants

Certified Angus Beef ^® brand steaks are rated above USDA Prime, Choice and Select, and are known for their superior flavor, juiciness and tenderness.

These steaks are currently available in Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro French restaurant on ten Norwegian ships, including the new Norwegian Breakaway. Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Spirit will begin serving these steaks by August.

Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 recalls the maiden arrival of the original Queen into New York

When Cunard Line's flagship Queen Mary 2 sailed into New York harbour on June 1, at the conclusion of her Transatlantic Crossing from Southampton, she arrived on the 77th anniversary of the maiden call of the original Queen Mary in New York in 1936.

Queen Mary’s Maiden Voyage began in Southampton on 27 May 1936 when she departed to the sounds of gleeful bands and ecstatic crowds.

On board were the famous bandleader, Henry Hall, scheduled to give a series of live radio broadcasts during the Crossing; the virtuoso harmonica player, Larry Adler; and well-known singer, Frances Day, who performed a song written especially for Queen Mary by Henry Hall.

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