Carnival Cruise Line Hosts Grand Bahama Celebration for the 50th Independence of the Bahamas
Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with the Ministry of Grand Bahama, hosted a Golden Jubilee Breakfast yesterday to celebrate the 50th Independence of The Bahamas. Approximately 100 community members attended the event which took place aboard Carnival Legend that is docked in Freeport and honored present and former parliamentarians of Grand Bahama.
50th Independence of the Bahamas
“Carnival offers our heartfelt congratulations to The Bahamas on this milestone anniversary and we are proud to have been operating in the country for the last 50 plus years,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We could not think of a better way to celebrate than with the Ministry of Grand Bahama as we work together to bring Carnival’s cruise port destination to life, which will bring millions of visitors to experience the beauty and culture of Grand Bahama.”
Among distinguished leaders present at the celebration were the Prime Minister of The Bahamas Hon. Philip Davis and the Minister for Grand Bahama Hon. Ginger Moxey. Thirty-five Grand Bahama parliamentarians were also presented with awards to recognize their service.
“As we reflect on the 50th anniversary of our independence, I am so excited about the road ahead for Grand Bahama,” said Minister Moxey. “Working with partners like Carnival, we are rebuilding our economy and bringing new opportunities to our residents. We say a big thank you to Carnival for continuing to be a part of this community, holding this anniversary celebration here in Grand Bahama and bringing a new cruise port to our island.”
Carnival Cruise Line
The Golden Jubilee Breakfast took place as work continues to advance on the Carnival Grand Bahama cruise port destination. Representing an investment of $200 million, the port destination will offer guests a uniquely Bahamian experience with exciting features and amenities, including a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach, a nature reserve and an interior pool feature, as well as Bahamian-operated retail, food and beverage options for Carnival guests to enjoy.
Global Music Sensation, Luis Fonsi, Named Godfather of Norwegian Viva.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, announced today that GRAMMY® nominated, and five-time Latin GRAMMY® winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer, Luis Fonsi, will serve as the godfather of its newest ship, Norwegian Viva, the second ship of the Brand’s groundbreaking Prima Class. The ship will be christened in Miami before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico this fall.
Luis Fonsi Named Godfather
Best known for his extensive list of radio hits including the award-winning, global chart-topping hit, “Despacito,” which was featured on Billboard’s “Hot Latin Song” list for a record-breaking 56 consecutive weeks, Puerto Rican-born Fonsi will fulfill the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Viva at the Nov. 28, 2023 christening ceremony in Miami, the “Cruise Capital of the World.
The “Live it Up!” theme of Norwegian Viva will continue throughout the evening, with a lineup of leading Latin entertainers joining Fonsi, including The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; and singer, Pedro Capó, all of which will deliver exclusive performances throughout the night.
We are thrilled to welcome Latin music icon Luis Fonsi to the NCL family as Godfather of Norwegian Viva and to join us as we christen our newest ship,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. Miami, our hometown, is immersed in Latin culture, and we want to celebrate Norwegian Viva’s debut with an infusion of Latin talent headlined by Luis. As a native Puerto Rican, who is also based in Miami, he brings people together from around the world with his energy, positivity and music, making him the perfect complement to the vibrant energy of Norwegian Viva. We cannot wait for him to join us as we celebrate this milestone moment later this year.”
On Nov. 28, 2023, Luis Fonsi will officiate the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle on the ship’s bow to bid the vessel and its travelers good fortune on their voyage, a fundamental nautical tradition customary for any ship launch. After completing its christening voyage, Norwegian Viva will be the newest ship to homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico upon arrival on Dec. 15, 2023.
It will offer a variety of seven-day Caribbean voyages through April 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, before returning for a summer season of cruises to Europe from Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; and Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice (Trieste), Italy.
I am so honored to be named Godfather of NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva, and look forward to sharing her with the amazing people of Puerto Rico, a community that truly represents the spirit of ‘live it up’” said Luis Fonsi, award-winning global artist. “Growing up on an island, the ocean plays such an important part in my life, and there is nowhere else I’d rather be. Cruising provides such an incredible vacation experience, and I cannot wait to christen this incredible ship and to introduce her to the world.”
Norwegian Viva will sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, in December 2023 for a season of Caribbean itineraries.
Norwegian Viva is the second of six vessels in the company’s groundbreaking Prima Class and sister ship to the award-winning Norwegian Prima. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize the guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world-class cuisine, the brand’s most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack.
Norwegian Viva features many of the outstanding onboard experiences that makes the Prima Class in a league of its own including Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL’s industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar. Debuting in August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list-worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December 2023 for a season of Caribbean itineraries.
To commemorate this exciting partnership and celebrate the all-star entertainment lineup to be featured at Norwegian Viva’s christening event, NCL has put together a Live it Up! Spotify playlist inspired by top Latin music superstars.
Norwegian Viva
For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line’s award-winning 18-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.
“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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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-entrypools– 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 ElLoco 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.
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 TheMason 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.
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 than20differentbars 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 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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’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.
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 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 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:
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 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.
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.
