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Princess Cruises New Princess Perfect Weddings at Sea

By
John Shallo
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“King of Bridal” Designer Randy Fenoli
“King of Bridal” Designer Randy Fenoli Named Love and Romance Ambassador for The Love Boat

Twenty-five years after hosting the first modern wedding at sea, Princess Cruises today unveiled an exciting new line-up of wedding packages and announced TV host and bridal designer Randy Fenoli as Brand Ambassador for Love and Romance, a role which includes hosting a bridal fashion themed cruise in December 2023 and developing a signature wedding package exclusive to The Love Boat.

Princess Perfect Weddings at Sea

New Princess Perfect Weddings create unforgettable moments by offering packages tailored for couples seeking unique and romantic ways to say “I do,” including grand ceremonies in The Love Boat’s picturesque piazza as well as outside deck areas that offer breathtaking venues with stunning ocean views, providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic ceremony, at a price significantly lower compared to land-based venues.

“Twenty-five years ago, Princess set the standard for weddings at sea, and with the help of Randy Fenoli, the most trusted source in the bridal industry, we’re doing it again with our new Princess Perfect Weddings packages, evolving our offerings to create unparalleled experiences for couples and their loved ones, all at tremendous value,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “These new packages let couples combine their dream wedding with an unforgettable voyage to picturesque destinations, to celebrate their special day in the most extraordinary ways imaginable.”

Princess Perfect Weddings offer couples a range of options, ensuring that every proposal, wedding ceremony and vow renewal vision can be realized, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. The first phase of new packages features at-sea options, with more packages, including a signature Randy Fenoli Weddings package, as well as Weddings Ashore, to be announced later this year.

Princess Perfect Weddings at Sea
Denali Express Train With Sapphire Princess in Whittier Alaska

Randy Fenoli Bridal Fashion Themed Cruise

Princess Cruises also announced that Fenoli will host a bridal fashion themed cruise aboard a seven-day Western Caribbean voyage on Regal Princess embarking in Galveston on December 3. The Randy Fenoli Bridal Fashion Themed Cruise at Sea will offer meet and greets, signature events, and even wedding gown consultations with the celebrity bridal designer.

Being named Love and Romance Ambassador for Princess Cruises is an incredible honor, and I’m beyond excited to explore new ways to weave enchanting moments of romance that reinforce and expand The Love Boat legacy,” said Fenoli. Our December Themed Cruise is going to be a celebration of all things bridal, and no matter their shape, their budget or type of wedding, we’re going to help match all of our brides-to-be with the perfect dress.

Majestic Princess
Majestic Princess

With all Princess Perfect weddings performed at sea, ship captains serve as the ceremony officiant and all packages include a dedicated wedding specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their wedding package according to their unique vision and requirements. From selecting the perfect venue to arranging decorations, flowers, and photography, every detail is handled to ensure a seamless and unforgettable event.

Princess Perfect Weddings packages include*:

Perfect Pair Wedding (includes the couple and up to 2 guests) 
Symbolic Wedding $2,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $3,495

Package Highlights:

  • Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship’s captain
  • Fresh florals, wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
  • Dedicated photographer service and memorable prints
  • Romantic breakfast for the couple
  • Stateroom gifts and goodies
  • Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
  • Keepsake certificate

Timeless Ceremony at Sea (includes the couple and up to 8 guests)
Symbolic Wedding $3,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $4,495

Package Highlights:

  • Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship’s captain
  • Fresh florals, wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
  • Solo live musician during the ceremony
  • Dedicated photographer service
  • Memorable prints and digital high-res photos 
  • Romantic breakfast for the couple
  • Stateroom gifts and goodies
  • Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
  • Keepsake certificate

Timeless Wedding at Sea, (includes the couple and up to 18 guests)
Symbolic Wedding $5,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $6,495

Package Highlights:

  • Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship’s captain
  • Fresh florals for the couple and the wedding party
  • Wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
  • Bridal hair styling & makeup
  • Solo live musician during the ceremony and reception
  • Dedicated venue to celebrate after ceremony
  • Signature welcome cocktails curated by the couple
  • Dedicated photographer service
  • Memorable prints and all digital high-res photos
  • Romantic breakfast for the couple
  • Premium dining experience for the couple
  • Stateroom gifts and goodies
  • Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
  • Keepsake certificate

The Love Boat line has also added packages for Princess Proposals at Sea and Vow Renewal Celebrations that include a dedicated event specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their special event.

Renew the Love – Vow Renewal $1,595

Package highlights:

  • Short, sweet indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship’s captain
  • Fresh florals, celebration cake and sparkling wine toast for the couple
  • Dedicated photographer and memorable prints
  • Stateroom gifts and goodies
  • Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
  • Keepsake certificate

Princess Perfect Proposal $795

Package Highlights:

  • Secret proposal setup in a private indoor or outdoor location
  • Proposal rose and rose petal décor
  • Dedicated photographer and memorable prints
  • Celebration cake
  • Stateroom gifts and goodies
  • Pre-cruise and onboard coordinator

In addition to the beautiful ceremony and reception venues, couples and their guests also enjoy the unmatched amenities and entertainment onboard the iconic Love Boat. From world-class dining options to luxurious spas, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling onboard activities, Princess ensures an unparalleled experience for all guests.

To further enhance the wedding experience, Princess also offers an array of honeymoon options. Couples can seamlessly transition from their wedding festivities to a romantic honeymoon cruise, exploring breathtaking destinations and creating lifelong memories together.

*Pricing does not include cost of cruise

Get to know Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world – the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises.

For more information about the Randy Fenoli Bridal Fashion Themed Cruise departing December 3 from Galveston, call 1-800-Princess. For information about Princess Perfect Weddings visit https://www.princess.com/learn/cruise-gifts-celebrations/romance/wedding-cruises/.

Hurtigruten Norway’s First Zero-Emission Cruise Ship

By
John Shallo
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Project ‘Sea Zero’
The new zero-emission ship is modeled at 135 meters (443 feet) long, with 270 cabins to hold 500 guests and 99 crew.

In the lead up to their 130th anniversary, Hurtigruten Norway has unveiled early concepts for its first zero-emission ship which will launch in 2030, with plans to transform the entire fleet to zero emissions over time.

First Zero-Emission Cruise Ship

Initially announced under the project name ‘Sea Zero’, the future ships will be electric and equipped with batteries that are charged with renewable energy when in port. Combining 60-megawatt battery solutions with wind technology, the ship is expected to feature numerous firsts and improved solutions that do not exist on cruise ships today, including 164ft retractable sails with solar panels, artificial intelligence maneuvering, contra-rotating propellers, and multiple retractable thrusters.

Battery Levels Displayed On Ships Side

In addition, battery levels will be displayed on the ship’s external sides, while the bridge, where the Captain and crew steer the ship, is expected to reduce significantly in size following enhanced A.I.  maneuvering. Mimicking that of an airplane cockpit, the AI will also capture data to help improve docking operations.

Superior Guest Comfort

Hurtigruten Norway strives for superior guest comfort and spectacular views on board its first zero-emission ship. The streamlined shape not only results in less air resistance, reduces energy use and increases passenger comfort. In addition to ample outdoor space, enlarged surface areas with dedicated windows will allow for unparalleled views of what is often described as ‘the world’s most beautiful coastline.’

Guests will also be able to play a key role in minimizing energy use, as they will be able to operate ultra-modern cabin ventilation with control and eco-incentive through an interactive mobile app that would also allow them to measure their own water and energy consumption.

Innovations and Sustainability

“When we initially announced the ‘Sea Zero’ project over a year ago, we were faced with the challenge of not knowing which technologies would be available to us in 2030. Our task was to pave the way for new innovations and enhance existing ones to align with our sustainability objectives. While some of these technologies have reached a relatively advanced stage, they still necessitate dedicated research and development to ensure their successful implementation within the maritime context. On the other hand, certain technologies are still in the early stages and require fundamental research and thorough testing. Following a rigorous feasibility study, we have pinpointed the most promising technologies for our groundbreaking future cruise ships. We are committed to delivering a ship that surpasses all others in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability within just a few years.” said, Hedda Felin, the CEO of Hurtigruten Norway.

The new zero-emission ship is modeled at 135 meters (443 feet) long, with 270 cabins to hold 500 guests and 99 crew.

Hurtigruten Norway

While Hurtigruten Norway is working towards its first zero-emission ship, the company is currently undertaking one of the most extensive environmental upgrades in European maritime history with its existing fleet. Two of the seven ships have been upgraded to battery-hybrid-powered ships, with a third to be upgraded this fall. At the same time, the five other vessels are being outfitted with various technologies that will cut CO² emissions by 25% and NOx (nitrogen oxides) by 80%. In 2019, sister company Hurtigruten Expeditions introduced the world’s first battery-hybrid-powered ship, MS Roald Amundsen. The Expeditions arm now has three battery-hybrid ships out of its seven-ship fleet.

To learn more about Hurtigruten Group, visit hurtigruten.co.uk and to learn more about Sea Zero research visit: https://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/destinations/norway/the-original-norwegian-coastal-express/sea-zero/

Royal Caribbean reveals Utopia of The Seas

By
John Shallo
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Royal Caribbean cruise ships on order
Royal Caribbean’s new Utopia of the Seas will be the first Oasis Class ship to debut with 3- to 4-night getaways. From Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, in July 2024, every vacationer can celebrate with unmatched weekend energy across more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, ways to thrill and chill, and more of all the above at the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Next summer, vacationers can celebrate the weekend in the biggest way ever. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the ultimate 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaway, Utopia of the Seas. As the first of the game-changing Oasis Class ships to offer short getaways when it debuts, the next big thing coming to vacations sets the stage to make more memories in one short trip than ever before. Starting July 2024 from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Utopia will introduce unmatched weekend energy across a combination of more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, ways to thrill and chill, and more of all the above at Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas – including the new adults-only Hideaway Beach opening in early 2024.

Perfect Day CocoCay with Utopia of the Seas docked
The new, ultimate 3- to 4-night getaway, Utopia of the Seas, will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay for more thrills and ways to chill in one trip than ever before. Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas features 13 waterslides, the first overwater cabanas in The Bahamas, pools of all sizes and vibes, white sand beaches, and more.

Utopia of The Seas

The signature adventures of the newest Oasis Class ship will make their short getaway debut alongside firsts and reimagined experiences, like a new Caribbean tiki bar, a first-of-its-kind immersive dining experience, the latest, greatest – and longest – dry slide at sea; newly designed resort-style pools; and more. 

Utopia opens for bookings on Royal Caribbean’s website as soon as Friday, June 23. Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members can book on Thursday, June 22. 

“Vacationers are looking to make every moment count by celebrating and recharging with their friends and family, and Utopia of the Seas makes all that possible in more ways than one,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “With the variety of dining, bars, pools, entertainment and thrills that make Oasis Class ships revolutionary and the experiences to match on our private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, we’ve combined the best of the best to create the world’s biggest weekend for everyone.”

Utopia is the getaway for friends, families and groups celebrating any occasion. Everyone can create their own weekend energy with their pick and mix of different types of pools and beaches, flavors from around the world, nightlife, entertainment and more.

Pool Deck aboard Utopia of the Seas
Whether it’s days by the pool or the beach, both can be found on the ultimate getaway with Royal Caribbean’s new Utopia of the Seas. Complemented by Perfect Day at CocoCay’s white sand beaches, the vibes across the new ship’s five pools range from upbeat to lowkey for everyone. Highlights include resort-style pools that come to life with the lively Lime & Coconut bar, three-story waterslides at The Perfect Storm and spots to grab a bite to eat like the new poolside food truck.

Pool Days for Every Mood

Whether it’s days by the pool or the beach – both can be found on the ultimategetaway. Complemented by Perfect Day at CocoCay’s pools and white sand beaches, the vibes across Utopia’s five pools range from upbeat to lowkey.

  • Resort-style and sloping beach-entry pools – Three pools and three Lime & Coconut bars are at the center of the action. Vacationers can hit the high-speed waterslides at The Perfect Storm, while young kids take on Splashaway Bay; kick back and soak in the sun and live island tunes; and enjoy quick, casual bites nearby like a new poolside food truck with handheld favorites; Mexican-inspired street food and drinks at El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca; and more.
  • Solarium – The tranquil retreat is where adults can recharge in a pool and whirlpools of their own, complete with a bar, daybeds, panoramic ocean views and the Solarium Bistro.
  • Suite Sun Deck – Tucked away in the exclusive Suite Neighborhood, the pool features a bird’s-eye view of the ocean in this private oasis with daybeds, loungers, umbrellas and more.
  • To mix up the memory making, vacationers can dry off by diving into record-breaking thrills around every corner. From the most adrenaline-pumping Ultimate Abyss yet, now 43 feet longer at 259 feet and featuring new zoom booster rollers and transparent racing windows, to the 10-story-high zip line; the signature FlowRider surf simulator; mini golf at AquaDunes; and Utopia Playscape for young kids, there are adventures for everyone in the group.

A World Tour of Flavors

With more than 20 dining options, every type of vacationer can take their taste buds on a world tour while island hopping in The Bahamas.

  • Immersive dining experience – Combining multiple courses, technology and different destinations and storylines, the new, one-of-a-kind experience to be revealed at a later date is a locomotive journey that engages all the senses.
  • Izumi and Izumi in the Park – Joining the Royal Caribbean staple in its new Central Park location, is a convenient, new window that serves up fresh sushi and Japanese-inspired sweets. Next door is a reimagined Izumi restaurant, with double the teppanyaki tables and new al fresco seating.
  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – Now spanning two stories, the reimagined favorite and menu of authentic Italian dishes, varietals and classic cocktails with a twist extend to the new outside terrace – Gio’s Terrazza – that overlooks the signature Boardwalk.
  • More returning favorites on the menu include The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, where live country music complements southern staples; Windjammer, featuring hundreds of dishes and flavors for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – all inspired by Royal Caribbean’s international chefs; Hooked Seafood; and Chops Grille, now connected to the signature Trellis Bar.

Celebrations for Every Occasion

Getting away is always a cause for celebration. Wherever and whenever on Utopia, travelers are just steps away fromtheir next big cheers and night out, with more than 20 different bars and entertainment spots, two casinos, live music venues and showstopping entertainment.

  • Pesky Parrot – The new Caribbean bar is a slice of laidback paradise on the Royal Promenade that serves up fruit-based cocktails made with rum, tequila and gin, alongside frozen drinks and more.
  • Casino Royale – Upping the ante are two casinos that feature more than 370 slot machines, nearly 30 table games and more.
  • Live music – It’s all about hitting the high note across five live music venues that range from Spotlight Karaoke to Latin hotspot Boleros, Music Hall, to rock out with the best cover bands at sea; Bell & Barley, the English pub with a live guitarist; and the classic piano bar, Schooner Bar.
  • Showstopping entertainment – The cruise line’s original production shows take center stage across air, ice, water and theater, including high diving, slacklining and acrobatics at the AquaTheater; ice-skating feats at Studio B; and theatrical productions at the Royal Theater.

Utopia is the getaway for everyone – even when it comes to the rooms vacationers can choose from. Across more than 20 types of accommodations, groups of friends and families – however large or small – can find their perfect fit from rooms with views of the ocean or neighborhoods like the open-air Central Park and lively Boardwalk; layouts for three, four, five and more; or suites such as the Royal Loft Suite and Ultimate Family Suite, plus an all-new category – the Solarium Suites.

The celebrations also extend from ship to shores. The ultimate getaway packs in double the island time with visits to Nassau, The Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean’sPerfect Day at CocoCay, the “Best Private Island” for three years running.* Between the two islands’ beaches and turquoise blue waters, and Perfect Day’s 13 waterslides, swim-up bar, pools, overwater cabanas and the upcoming adults-only Hideaway Beach, vacationers are in for more than one memorable beach day.

When it comes to hitting repeat on memory making, adventurers can choose to get away on Utopia any Friday or Monday or go all out on any ship in Royal Caribbean’s action-packed lineup of 3- to 8-night vacations from Port Canaveral, which includes the new Wonder of the Seas.

The ultimate 3- and 4-night getaway will also make waves when it debuts in July 2024 as the first Oasis Class ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the cleanest-burning marine fuel to date. As the cruise line’s second LNG-powered ship – following Icon of the Seas ­– Utopia will advance Royal Caribbean’s decades-long commitment to the environment by combining LNG technology with a lineup of the brand’s already-established environmentally friendly initiatives and features, from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connection.

More details about Utopia will be revealed leading up to its highly anticipated debut next summer. Vacationers can be among the first to dive into all the new getaway has in store on www.RoyalCaribbean.com.

The Ultimate Abyss
The ultimate 3-night and 4-night getaway, Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, is packed with thrills like the latest and greatest – and longest dry slide at sea – the Ultimate Abyss, the 10-story-high test of courage with new zoom booster rollers and transparent racing windows.

Get To Know Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International, owned by Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel that features the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionize vacations with itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 20 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.

For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers can call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

Icon of the Seas Begins Sea Trials

By
John Shallo
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Biggest Cruise Ships
Icon of the Seas during sea trials

Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas is on the move to sail the open ocean for the first time and reach its next construction milestone.

Icon of the Seas

Ahead of a highly anticipated debut in January 2024, the first-of-its-kind vacation left the Meyer Turku shipyard – where it’s under construction in Turku, Finland – to begin its multiday sea trials.

On board are more than 450 specialists carrying out crucial, preliminary tests with Ichttps://cruiseaddicts.com/icon-of-the-seas-construction-tour-sneak-peek/on’s main engines, hull, lifeboats, thrusters and more in preparation for the new ship’s second round of sea trials later this year, where it will be pushed to its limits.

Carnival Cruise Line Starts Testing Dining Room Menu Changes

By
John Shallo
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Carnival's New Dining Room Menu
Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse and Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, discuss dishes.

Carnival Cruise Line will be enhancing its main dining rooms offerings over the next several months to bring more variety, with nearly 60 new entrée presentations on rotation, fleetwide. The enhancements will be piloted on Carnival Dream beginning June 17, with a fleetwide rollout by this fall.

A Pre-Dinner Tasting aboard Carnival Liberty
A Pre-Dinner Tasting aboard Carnival Liberty. Photo by: John Shallo/Cruise Addicts

Testing Dining Room Menu Changes

In consultation with Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse, the culinary team has been evaluating every aspect of the fleet’s main dining room offerings and planning new options.

Some cruisers opt for an animal-based eating approach, and for those interested in optimizing hormones and energy, exploring the connection between the carnivore diet and testosterone—like what Carnivore Snax covers—can offer insights into how nutrient-dense foods support your fitness and vitality, even while traveling.

Testing Dining Room Menu Changes
A waitress aboard the Carnival Magic presents gastronomical offerings in the ship’s Prime Steakhouse Photo by Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines

New main dining room menus

New main dining room menus will also include offerings from Carnival’s popular specialty dining restaurants, so more guests may experience the wide variety of great food offered across the fleet.

Carnival chefs are also addressing larger portion offerings for certain entrees, along with additional vegetarian options and entrée salads.

Cruise News Update: Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Cruise Line welcomed the first guests to sail on Carnival Venezia™ from New York City today. The ship’s launch in New York coincides with the busy summer travel season and builds on an exciting period of growth for Carnival, as the first of three ships to join the fleet over the next year.

Carnival Venezia Debuts In New York

Carnival Venezia News

Carnival Venezia’s positioning from New York builds on the popularity of Carnival’s past summer sailing deployments from the port by offering a longer deployment plan that features a more varied itinerary portfolio.

Carnival Cruise Line News

Beyond the summer season, the ship will begin a new series on Sept. 29, 2023, that alternates between eight- to 12-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean, Southern Caribbean and The Bahamas, visiting popular destinations like Saint Thomas, San Juan and Aruba, along with four of Carnival’s private destinations: Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, Amber Cove and Grand Turk. In addition, select cruises will feature Miami as a port of call.

Booking Details

To see sailings currently open for sale on Carnival Venezia, click here. For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation on Carnival, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit http://www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York City

By
John Shallo
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Carnival President Christine Duffy and Carnival Venezia Godfather Jay Leno welcome ship into fleet
Carnival President Christine Duffy and Carnival Venezia Godfather Jay Leno welcome ship into fleet.

Carnival Cruise Line welcomed the first guests to sail on Carnival Venezia™ from New York City today. The ship’s launch in New York coincides with the busy summer travel season and builds on an exciting period of growth for Carnival, as the first of three ships to join the fleet over the next year. 

Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York City

A welcome event kicked off the celebration Wednesday evening for the ship’s arrival to its homeport and the festivities continued Thursday morning in the Manhattan Cruise Terminal as the ship’s first guests boarded to sail.  

Carnival’s First-Ever Godfather, Jay Leno

Carnival Venezia received a special blessing by Father Enrique Salvo of St. Patrick’s Cathedral during the special welcome event, and acclaimed comedian and television host Jay Leno became the first godfather named to a Carnival ship. Leno also performed a special comedy show exclusively for Carnival’s event guests.

By highlighting his own Italian heritage, Jay is helping us celebrate the Italian theming guests will experience when they cruise on this beautiful ship,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. We’ve heard great reviews from guests who sailed on the ship’s transatlantic crossing, and now I am so happy to welcome our first guests joining us from New York to enjoy what’s in store for them.”

Photo Gallery slideshow of the interior of Carnival Venezia:

  • Amari Bar aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Atrium aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Beauty Salon aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Bonsai Sushi aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Bonsai Teppanyaki aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Bvlgari aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Camp Ocean aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Carnival Store aboard Carnival Venezia
  • aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Cherry On Top aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Circle C aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Cloud 9 Spa aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Club O2 aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Creative Cove aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Fahrenheit 555 aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Fitness Center aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Frizzante aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Heroes Bar Frizzante aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Il Viaggio aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Lido Marketplace aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Pergola Bar aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Piano Bar 88 aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Pizzeria Del Capitano aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Rococo Bar aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Teatro Rosso aboard Carnival Venezia
  • Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York City | 8

The ceremony on Wednesday night also highlighted new entertainment programming and other concepts created for Carnival Venezia’s debut. The ship is the first to introduce “Carnival Fun Italian Style” that adds Carnival’s signature fun to the vessel’s beautiful Italian theming. Carnival Venezia is architecturally styled after its namesake, the city of Venice, Italy. 

Guests Cut Ribbon and Embark on First Sailing from New York

Inside the Manhattan Cruise Terminal on Thursday morning, Duffy greeted guests with a special event to welcome them on board the new ship. Captain Claudio Cupisti and some of the first guests to board from New York joined Duffy to cut a ceremonial ribbon and officially begin embarkation. 

Thursday’s departure from New York will take guests on a four-day sailing that includes a visit to Bermuda. This summer, the ship will alternate between sailing four-, five- six- and eight-day sailings to the Caribbean, Bermuda and ports in Canada and New England, including Saint John’s and Halifax.

Carnival Venezia’s positioning from New York builds on the popularity of Carnival’s past summer sailing deployments from the port by offering a longer deployment plan that features a more varied itinerary portfolio.

Beyond the summer season, the ship will begin a new series on Sept. 29, 2023, that alternates between eight- to 12-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean, Southern Caribbean and The Bahamas, visiting popular destinations like Saint Thomas, San Juan and Aruba, along with four of Carnival’s private destinations: Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, Amber Cove and Grand Turk. In addition, select cruises will feature Miami as a port of call.

Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York City – Cruise News Update

To see sailings currently open for sale on Carnival Venezia, click here. For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation on Carnival, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit http://www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

Miray Cruises Names Kendra L. Holmes as CEO

By
John Shallo
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Kendra L. Holmes
Miray Cruises CEO, Kendra L. Holmes

Miray Cruises has announced the promotion of Kendra L. Holmes as its Chief Executive Officer. Holmes brings over 15 years of cruise and hospitality industry experience to the role. In her new position at Miray Cruises, Holmes will be responsible for the company’s ongoing growth initiatives, fleet expansion, and leading the executive team for the upcoming launch of Life at Sea CruisesTM, the world’s first and only three-year cruise.

Miray Cruises New CEO, Kendra L. Holmes

Holmes joined Miray Cruises in 2019 as Director of Business Development and later was promoted to Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, leading efforts to develop new business opportunities and strategic growth initiatives for the company after the pandemic.

Prior to joining Miray Cruises, Holmes managed fleetwide dry dock contracts and led technical vendor development efforts for Disney Cruise Lines. Holmes also holds a Juris Doctorate and has worked in various legal roles throughout her career. 

“Kendra has provided exceptional leadership and value to Miray Cruises, our partners, and cruise guests worldwide. I cannot think of anyone better suited for the role of Chief Executive,” said Vedat Ugurlu, owner of Miray Cruises. “We are confident in her ability to lead our company into its next phase of growth and development and she has our full support.” 

Kendra will also oversee the Life at Sea Cruises’ executive team with newly appointed Ethem Bayramoglu to Chief Operating Officer for Life at Sea Cruises, Fuat Guven as Vice President of Hotel Operations, Robert Dixon as lead Project Manager, and Natalka Brodnik as the team’s new Director of Sales. 

“I feel honored and privileged to be entrusted with steering our company’s growth into the next chapter, including the launch of Life at Sea Cruises—an innovative cruise product that will fulfill the dreams of global travelers to explore the world,” said Holmes. 

Life at Sea Cruises

Miray Cruises’ Life at Sea Cruises, scheduled to set sail in November 2023, will embark on an extraordinary journey spanning over 130,000 miles, encompassing 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents. The inaugural voyage will commence in Istanbul. Currently, the ship has reached 50% occupancy, and reservations are being accepted at LifeAtSeaCruises.com.

A Journey Beyond Your Dreams

Get To Know Miray Cruises 

With nearly two decades of experience cruising the seas, Miray Cruises has owned and operated passenger vessels as a cruise ship hotel management company since 1996.

Miray Cruises’ headquarters are based in Istanbul, Turkey, with additional offices in Piraeus, Greece and Orlando, Florida. The company manages and operates all marine, technical and hotel departments onboard their vessels.

Their newest venture- Life at Sea Cruises- is the world’s first and only three-year cruise, which will set sail in November 2023. The inaugural cruise will cover more than 130,000 miles, visiting 375 ports across 135 countries and all seven continents. For more information, visit MirayCruises.com. 

MSC Group’s Cruise Division Expanding Shore Power Plans

By
John Shallo
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MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia

The Cruise Division of MSC Group unveiled details today surrounding the next phase of its shore power plan. Ships will be able to plug into shoreside electricity grids in at least 15 new ports between 2024 and 2026, furthering progress toward decarbonization and reducing emissions from the company’s fleet of ships while berthed.

Expanding Shore Power Plans

The new 2024-2026 shore power plan includes Miami, along with Barcelona and Valencia, Spain; Stavanger and Norfjordied, Norway; Copenhagen, Denmark; Marseille, France; Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Valletta, Malta; Stockholm, Sweden; and at least five Italian ports.

The Company intends for all ships belonging to MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys to fully utilize shore power facilities at all other ports they visit once available.

Using shore power removes the need to keep a ship’s engine running and drastically reduces in-port emissions from the vessel.

Expanding Shore Power Plans
MSC World Europa is the brands first LNG powered ship.

MSC Group’s Cruise Division

MSC Cruises’ ships have successfully used shore power at the ports of Southampton, UK and Kristiansand, Norway since February 2023. Later this summer, the company will test the facilities at the Norwegian port of Haugesund. Other European trials are planned this year at Bergen and Alesund in Norway and Warnemunde in Germany.

MSC Cruises will also use shore power in the German ports of Hamburg this winter and Kiel during the summer of 2024.

MSC Cruises signed a memorandum of understanding with Cruise Baltic last year for shore power in the Baltic Sea area. Cruise Baltic has 32 ports and destinations in its region that are committed to increasing the number of shore power facilities available.

Shore power capability has been fitted on all of MSC Cruises’ new ships since 2017. Together with retrofits completed on other vessels, 67 percent of MSC Cruises’ total capacity is equipped with the technology. More ships will be retrofitted as the ports on their respective itineraries make shore power available.

All of Explora Journeys’ ships will include shore power capabilities. EXPLORA I, the first ship in the new brand’s fleet, will enter service on July 17.

“Shore power is an important factor on our journey toward net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) operations. All of our newbuilds since 2017 are equipped with the ability to plug into local power grids and we are rolling out retrofits on the other vessels in our fleet. Our shore power plan actively demonstrates our ambition and that we are fully committed to reduce emissions from our ships, including while in port. We have invested heavily in hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems to substantially reduce local air quality emissions and we now need more ports across Europe and beyond to introduce shore power as quickly as possible. By making major reductions to emissions in ports, we are fulfilling our responsibility to the ports and coastal communities that our ships visit and serve. Together with the use of LNG fuel, improving energy efficiency, utilizing innovative wastewater treatment and waste recycling, we are making positive strides in playing our part to address climate change and protect ocean biodiversity.” said, Linden Coppell, VP Sustainability & ESG, MSC Cruises.

MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia arrives in Copenhagen before her naming ceremony.

MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, MSC Euribia, features the most energy-efficient cruise ship design ever and performed an industry-first earlier this month when she sailed from France to Denmark and demonstrated the potential to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions on a cruise through the use of renewable bio-LNG. 

Carnival’s Newest Ship Arrives Home to New York City

By
John Shallo
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Carnival's Newest Ship, Carnival Venezia
Carnival's Newest Ship, Carnival Venezia arrives home to New York City.

Carnival Venezia, the latest addition to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, sailed into its New York City homeport for the first time this morning. The ship’s guests just completed a 15-day transatlantic sailing that began in Barcelona, Spain.

Aerial Video of Carnival Venezia Arriving to New York

Carnival’s Newest Ship, Carnival Venezia

Carnival will host a welcome ceremony on board the ship Wednesday evening and acclaimed comedian and television host Jay Leno will become the first godfather named to a Carnival ship. On Thursday, Carnival Venezia will mark its first departure from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, with guests set to embark on a four-day cruise visiting Bermuda.

Carnival Venezia is debuting “Carnival Fun Italian Style” and introducing several new concepts, from restaurants and bars to entertainment programming. The new venues and experiences enhance the ship’s theming, as its design is inspired by the city of Venice, Italy.

Carnival Cruise Line

The 25th ship in the fleet, Carnival Venezia will offer a wide range of options for guests cruising from New York, including 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.

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