Azamara ,Quest, Blue Hull, Revitalization, revit, revite, Retouch, 2012,
Azamara has announced the removal of its COVID-19 vaccination requirement starting December 1, 2022, for guests traveling on any Caribbean and European sailings, unless required by local regulations.
Vaccination Requirement Removed
Regardless of vaccination status, Azamara will continue to encourage all guests departing from any port to get tested at leisure prior to travel to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. These results will not be required to board the vessel.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority and we have continued to closely monitor the evolving global situation,” said President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas. “Azamara continues to implement the highest safety measures in accordance with the local health authorities and the current positive direction of the travel industry. We look forward to many being able to sail with us for the immersive cruising experience that we are known for and explore the wonderful destinations the Azamara way.”
Azamara recently made the decision to remove its COVID-19 embarkation testing requirement as of July 25, 2022. COVID-19 testing will continue to be available to guests onboard as needed. To ensure a safe environment for guests and crew members, Azamara’s crew will continue to be fully vaccinated and wear face coverings while onboard.
For more information on Azamara’s health and safety protocols, please visit:
NCL President and CEO Harry Sommer and Coca-Cola Polar Bear
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced a beverage partnership with global iconic drink brand Coca-Cola following Norwegian Prima’s christening voyage from Reykjavik, Iceland.
Norwegian Prima
Beverage Partnership with Coca-Cola
Norwegian Prima will be the first vessel in NCL’s 18-ship fleet to carry Coca-Cola as its official soft drink with the remaining NCL ships to carry Coca-Cola by the end of December 2022. In celebration of the new partnership and the christening of Norwegian Prima, the first major cruise ship to be christened in the Icelandic Capital, Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line and Coca-Cola’s â famous polar bear toasted to the momentous occasion with a refreshing Coca-Cola beverage at the Penrose Atrium.
Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Cruise Line Pushes Boundaries
“With the historic debut of Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to push boundaries across every element of the guest experience, so it’s perfectly fitting that we are unveiling and bringing on board a fresh, new beverage partnership with Coca-Cola during the christening of Norwegian Prima,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. As a company rooted in history, Norwegian Cruise Line is honored to align with a fellow beloved brand, Coca-Cola, and we look forward to leveraging this relationship to continue to enhance our guest experience.
Norwegian Prima
As the first of six vessels in the new Prima class, the Brand’s first new class of ships in nearly 10 years, Norwegian Prima debuted on Aug. 27 from Reykjavik, Iceland to more than 2,500 guests in a larger-than-life christening celebration with an unforgettable performance by Katy Perry, global superstar and godmother of the ship.
Norwegian Prima debuted on Aug. 27 from Reykjavik, Iceland
Norwegian Prima
Built in Marghera, Italy, by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Norwegian Prima is 965 feet long, 143,535 gross tons, and can accommodate 3,100 guests at double occupancy. Norwegian Prima offers guests exciting itineraries, the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any new cruise ship in the contemporary and premium cruise categories, and brand-first experiences with Ocean Boulevard, Indulge Food Hall, The Concourse, Infinity Beach, and Oceanwalk. Norwegian Prima also features multiple first-at-sea innovations, including a three-story transformational theater-nightclub, the Prima Theater & Club; its three-level racetrack with the Prima Speedway; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and the cruise industry’s first sustainable cocktail bar with The Metropolitan Bar.
For more information about the Norwegian Cruise Line or to book a cruise, please visit www.ncl.com or call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or contact a travel professional.
American Symphony Christened in Natchez, Mississippi
American Cruise Lineshas announced that American Symphony was christened yesterday, August 30th in Natchez, Mississippi—the new riverboat’s official Godmother City. The christening marks the on-time delivery of American’s 5th new modern riverboat in 4 years and the Line’s continued growth on the Mississippi River.
American Cruise Lines and the City of Natchez hosted a joint celebration for the country’s newest ship by welcoming cruise guests, as well as the communities of Natchez and Vidalia, to be a part of the official christening events. A festive presentation was held at the Natchez Convention Center which included musical performances by the Victory Belles, as well as speeches and special appearances from American Symphony’s official Godmother, Asya Branch, Miss USA 2020 & Miss Mississippi 2018; the Honorable Tate Reeves, Governor of Mississippi; the Honorable Delbert Hosemann, Lt. Governor of Mississippi; the Honorable Dan M. Gibson, Mayor of Natchez; the Honorable Buz Craft, Mayor of Vidalia; and Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines, among many others.
Godmother Asya Branch
Godmother Asya Branch
Immediately following the celebration at the Convention Center, both cruise guests and the Natchez community joined American Cruise Lines at the Ferry Street Landing for the christening ceremony at the ship. Godmother Asya Branch was joined by honored guests, Cynthia and Denise Patterson in christening the ship. Cynthia and Denise are sisters and American Cruise Lines’ Eagle Society members. Together, with their late mother Lois, they have explored destinations across the U.S.A. on 28 cruises with American Cruise Lines.
“American Cruise Lines led the last decade of river cruising on the Mississippi and, with new boats like American Symphony, will lead the next one. Natchez, Vidalia, and all the towns along the way make the Mississippi the best cruising river in the world. We are so grateful for all the community involvement in tourism on the river and we are honored to make Natchez the Godmother City of American Symphony,” said Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines.
American Symphony is the 5th new modern riverboat American Cruise Lines has introduced in just 4 years
Accommodating 175 guests, American Symphony features 5 decks and offers 100% private balcony staterooms, including gracious suites and single staterooms. The new riverboat has an elegant design which employs a stunning use of glass, allowing for unparalleled views throughout the ship. American Symphony alsoshowcases American’s Modern Series hallmark—patented opening bow and retractable gangway, as well as the gorgeous 5th deck skywalk with an ellipse skylight, which cantilevers dramatically over the 4th deck café below. American Symphony also offers spacious lounges inside and out, a grand dining room, fitness center, and a wellness-yoga studio.
American Symphony’s sold-out inaugural cruise is following an 8-Day Lower Mississippi River itinerary which originally departed from New Orleans on Saturday, August 27th, and will conclude in Memphis, Tennessee on September 3rd. The new riverboat will continue to explore the Mighty Mississippi throughout 2022, including festive holiday cruises in December, and sail a full season again in 2023.
A virtual 360-degree tour of American’s new riverboats is available here:American Cruise Lines Virtual Riverboat Tour. Ship photos and tours are available at all times on the company’s main website under the “ships” tab.
American Cruise Lines
American’s small ship fleet has continued to expand year after year, as the company continues to introduce ground-breaking small ship designs with exceptional accommodations that enhance guests’ experiences on the Mississippi River, the Columbia & Snake Rivers, and protected U.S. waterways from Alaska to Florida.
Recognized as one of the best ocean cruise lines in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best Awards, Virgin Voyages has made its mark on the travel industry as one of the most sought-after holiday havens for rejuvenation, relaxation and a hint of adventure on the high seas. Having launched two award-winning ships in a span of just nine months, 2023 promises more industry-first milestones for Richard Branson’s newest travel brand. As an exciting precursor to the most epic loyalty program at sea, set to make its formal debut in 2023, Virgin Voyages is saying “Ahoy!” to The Sailing Club. This incredible dual-pronged perks program is teeming with brilliant benefits and exclusive offers for the remainder of 2022 and unlocks a limited window of opportunity for its Sailors to elevate themselves to the brand’s highest status tier in 2023.
“This brand was built on innovation, so we’re taking a truly unique approach and developing a program that will give Sailors a taste of what’s to come while rewarding those who’ve supported the brand all along,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, President and Chief Experience Officer. “I’ve met so many incredible Sailors – many who’ve voyaged with us more than 10 times since we’ve launched – and this new program is a thank you for their commitment. We’d also love their help in shaping the future and are seeking their ideas to create a game-changing loyalty program they’ll fall in love with.”
Virgin Voyages Upcoming, Brilliant Lady
2 Perks in 2022:
As part of the brand’s perks program, Virgin Voyages’ Sailing Club is introducing 2 Perks, exclusively available to loyal qualifying Sailors in 2022. The introduction of these new perks will reward and benefit those who book or sail in the near future, promoting end-of-year travel set to coincide with increases in booking trends and the cruise industry’s comeback.
Perk 1: Sail in 2022 with Deep Blue Extras: Deep Blue Extras, a collection of unrivaled luxuries that elevate qualifying Sailors to VIP treatment. From one free Shake for Champagne, anytime boarding and premium wifi (when available), to exclusive cocktail parties and laundry services, these rewards are meant to amp up the experience and encourage Sailors to unleash their inner RockStar. With rebooking rates as high as 50% from past Sailors craving another adventure with Virgin Voyages, the line continues to impress travelers, earning the most five-star reviews than any other cruise line on TripAdvisor. Now, the company is rewarding these travelers, as well as giving avid sea-goers, an opportunity to step aboard while maintaining their benefits from other lines. Deep Blue Extras are available for all qualifying Sailors that sail from September through December 2022.
Perk 2: Book in 2022 with Red Hot Booking Bonus Months: Virgin Voyages is also introducing Red Hot Booking Bonus Months. Spanning from Aug. 30 through Nov. 15, 2022, any new qualifying booking made during these select Red Hot Months (excludes bookings made with existing voyage credits), will allow all qualifying Sailors to be treated to special on-board spending perks and chances to win extraordinary experiences across the Virgin family. More exciting prizes will be announced next week. For a sneak peak, these will include a luxurious trip to Ulusaba, Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa, and Virgin Points through Virgin Red, the rewards club from Virgin designed to give you exclusive access to the Virgin family and beyond. In addition, Sailors who take advantage of this perk by making a qualifying booking between now and Nov. 15, 2022 will earn an extra $200 in Sailor Loot (aka on-board spending credit), which is combinable with all other promotions, offering rich rewards to loyal Sailors.
Sir Richard Branson holds popcorn at Razzle Dazzle onboard Scarlet Lady. Sir Richard Branson Photoshoot SCL NY Launch Event Shoot Date: Sept 14, 2021
Red Hot Booking Bonus Months
As a further enhancement to the Red Hot Booking Bonus Months and with an eye towards 2023, Virgin Voyages is introducing “Tokens” to track all qualifying spend to ensure Sailors are positioned for benefits in 2023. All of the money spent with Virgin Voyages since inception will be counted and tallied as Tokens. And as an exclusive perk for all loyal Sailors, every dollar spent during these Red Hot Booking Bonus Months – up to four Tokens per dollar for Sea-Blazers, and three Tokens per dollar for Sea-Rovers – will contribute to an individual’s future status. As the program is unveiled in 2023, these Tokens will fast-track Sailors to the highest tiers possible, unlocking even more phenomenal perks in the next year.
A Rockstar Suite anyone?
Three Ways to Unlock the 2022 Perks:
The 2022 Perks will be available to all loyal qualifying Sailors defined as:
Sea-Blazers – Pioneers who took to the high seas in 2021 were dubbed Sea-Blazers to match the trail-blazing brand. These Sailors were the first to come aboard and will be rewarded handsomely for their support. Additional perks include a $125 Bar Tab Bonus for life.
Sea-Rovers – We’re coining anyone who has sailed with Virgin Voyages twice in 2022 as a Sea-Rover as they too, are bold and inspired. Sea Rovers will earn a $100 Bar Tab Bonus for two years (valid through 2024).
“We are thrilled to introduce The Sailing Club and offer our loyal Sea-Blazers and Sea-Rovers our 2022 Perks Program as a thank you for being our biggest fans,” NirmalSaverimuttu added. “We look forward to welcoming our future Match & Sea More Sailors to experience setting sail the Virgin Way. And to those who aren’t Sea-Rovers yet, there is plenty of time to treat yourself to an award-winning, exclusively adult, kid-free vacation twice in 2022 and unlock a world of benefits with Virgin Voyages.”
As the final component of the 2022 program, Virgin Voyages is inviting Sailors to channel their inner Richard Branson and awaken their entrepreneurial spirit. The brand is eager for Sailors to share what perks they’d like offered, how Virgin Voyages can elevate its loyalty program, and what the company can do to make its Sailing Club one of the most irresistible in the travel industry.
To share an idea on what The Sailing Club should encompass, please email loyalty@virginvoyages.com. Virgin Voyages is accepting all ideas along with volunteers to participate in surveys and/or focus groups. For more information, swim on over to www.VirginVoyages.com.
The Groupie aboard Virgin Voyages, Scarlet Lady.
Redeem Your Existing Virgin Points
Members of the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Virgin Red in the US can redeem their Virgin Points on sailings from Miami and Barcelona on both Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, providing outstanding value to loyal customers from across the Virgin Group. Through the existing Capital One and Virgin Red partnership announced in March 2022, Capital One cardholders can also access these offers.
For more information about The Sailing Club – the most epic rewards program at sea – visit here and learn more about how to start getting rewarded. And, to get sailing, visit us here to book your next gorgeous vacation.
Enjoy an infinity swim-up bar aboard this beautiful ship, Arivia
P&O Cruises newest ship Arvia, arriving in December 2022 will feature more than 30 places to eat and drink and new menus by Local Food Heroes, Shivi Ramoutar and José Pizarro. Arvia is also set to be home to new restaurants created exclusively for the ship including Green & Co feat. Mizuhana and 6th Street Diner.
P&O Cruises is collaborating with queen of contemporary Caribbean cooking, Shivi Ramoutar and acclaimed Spanish chef, José Pizarro, to bring local food experiences to Arvia’s holidays in the Caribbean and Mediterranean respectively.
The Beach House Tacos at The Beach House
At TheBeach House Shivi will celebrate her passion for Caribbean cuisine with a range of dishes including her vibrant Jerk Chicken Supreme with rice and peas, coleslaw, shallow-fried plantain and a Jamaican cornmeal speciality known as festivals.
In The Glass House and Cellar Door guests will be able to try tapas created by José Pizarro, paired with wines selected by Food Hero Olly Smith. Dishes will include José Pizarro Tapas with grilled whole tiger prawns, mango, chilli and garlic salsa; lamb cutlets, crushed potatoes, olives, dried cherry tomatoes and romesco sauce; and tuna tartare with avocado, tomato and chilli dressing.
Green & Co feat. Mizuhana will be a new restaurant exclusive to Arvia and will offer guests exquisitely crafted fish and plant-based dishes
Green & Co feat. Mizuhana will be a new restaurant exclusive to Arvia and will offer guests exquisitely crafted fish and plant-based dishes. Guests will be able to dine at the sushi bar and watch the expert chefs at work or be seated at tables to enjoy the views out to sea. Dishes will include –
Chakalaka Wellington with a South African inspired spiced, smokey tomato sauce, red cabbage gel, corn relish, warm green bean salad, crispy corn kernels and a side of spiced sweet potato pakoras, coconut labneh, pea and mint dip
Moriawase Platters Nigiri with yellow fin tuna, Highland salmon, yellow tail, sea bass, maki and tuna uramaki
Chocolate Earth Plate with dark chocolate and beetroot pebbles, chocolate mushrooms, tarragon jelly, chocolate soil and non-dairy vanilla gelato
The 6th Street Diner is new for Arvia and is an all-American diner serving breakfast, brunch, dinner and sweet treats.
6th Street Diner is new for Arvia and is an all-American diner serving breakfast, brunch, dinner and sweet treats, accompanied with great music and ice-cold cocktails. Dishes will include –
Pennsylvania Dutch Waffles with fried chicken and spicy maple syrup
New York Strip Steak with grilled asparagus, crispy shallows, garlic butter and fries
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie with cream cheese frosting
Roast at The Quays is also new for Arvia with traditional lunches served with a modern twist, including a jumbo Yorkshire pudding filled with Sunday roast favourites.
Other highlight on board include:
Cocktail Bar aboard Arivia
Amber Lounge – situated in the Grand Atrium, guests will be able to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails while watching artists perform aerial vignettes above. New cocktails for Arvia include a Barberousse (with a mixture of 3 different rums, apricot and pomegranate juice) and a Tortuga Cobbler (with Aperol, grapefruit, raspberry juice and rum from The Tidal Rum).
Anderson’s Bar – boasting a boutique distillery and a menu of craft rums and gins, this intimate bar is a cosy spot for drinks by day and night. During the winter season, the on-board still will create unique rum, created exclusively by The Tidal Rum and in the summer, we make bespoke Marabelle Gin.
Infinity – the new swim-up bar on board Arvia will be the perfect place for guests to enjoy a cocktail or two.
The SkyDome aboard Arivia
Fresh and informal
Vistas Café Bar – Café serving pâtisserie and sweet treats with Costa coffee, teapigs™ tea and ocean views.
Ripples – Gelateria, in partnership with Snowflake Luxury Gelato, serving gelato cones, cakes, and sundaes, including a rum & raisin gelato and a special Caribbean-inspired sundae.
Taste 360 – Serving burgers, hot dogs, oven-baked pizza, authentic street food and special dishes from Local Food Heroes, Shivi Ramoutar and José Pizarro.
The Atrium aboard P&O Cruises, Arivia
Contemporary flavours
The Olive Grove – Mediterranean restaurant with a menu featuring the region’s iconic dishes, from Greek mezze to Moroccan lamb tagine. On Celebration Nights, the restaurant will offer an exclusive menu from José Pizarro.
The Keel and Cow – Gastropub serving dry-aged steaks, British classics and signature burger, The Prime Minister.
Sindhu – Guests can dine amidst stylish surroundings whilst chefs take them on a journey that celebrates the best of contemporary Indian cuisines.
Chic and special
Epicurean – Classic British ingredients are given a modern twist and are served with fine wines, flawless service, elegant surroundings and stunning ocean vistas.
The Limelight Club – a ticketed event exclusively for adults, guests will be able to settle back for entertainment provided by some of Britain’s best-loved performers while eating a three-course dinner.
The 710 Club – a sophisticated live-music bar that’s been crafted to Music Director Gary Barlow’s creative vision, guests will be able to immerse themselves in an array of musical genres while enjoying stylish cocktails and negronis hand-picked by Gary.
Example itineraries
Arvia maiden, Canary Islands, 14 nights from £1,449pp 14-night cruise on Arvia (K203) for £1,449 per person for an inside cabin. Departing December 9, 2022, the price includes kids’ clubs, full board meals and entertainment. Departing from and returning to Southampton ports of call are Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon.
Mediterranean, 14 nights from £1,049pp 14-night cruise on Arvia (K307) for £1,049 per person for an inside cabin. Departing April 2, 2023, the price includes kids’ clubs, full board meals and entertainment. Departing from and returning to Southampton ports of call are La Coruna, Mallorca, La Spezia, Marseilles, Barcelona and Cadiz.
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced its plan to implement SpaceX’s Starlink – making the Group the first in the cruise industry to adopt its high-speed, low-latency connectivity for a better onboard experience for guests and crew fleetwide. The innovative broadband internet service will be installed on all Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises ships, along with all new vessels for each of the brands.
SpaceX’s Starlink For Cruise Ship Internet
Deployment of the Starlink technology across the fleet will begin immediately, leveraging the insights obtained from the trial onboard Freedom of the Seas, which has received tremendous positive feedback from guests and crew. The installation is slated to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2023.
Our purpose as a company is to deliver the best vacation experiences to our guests responsibly, and this new offering, which is the biggest public deployment of Starlink’s high-speed internet in the travel industry so far, demonstrates our commitment to that purpose,” said Jason Liberty, president and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Group. “This technology will provide game-changing internet connectivity onboard our ships, enhancing the cruise experience for guests and crew alike. It will improve and enable more high-bandwidth activities like video streaming as well as activities like video calls. Using Starlink is one more example of our continued focus on innovation and excellence for our guests, our crew, the communities we visit and our shareholders.”
Ultimate Family Suite – Room 1820 Deck 18 Midship Starboard
Wonder of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International
Faster and More Reliable Cruise Ship Internet
Faster and more reliable internet will also make it easier for guests and crew to remain connected to work, family and friends – no matter where they are in the world.
“Royal Caribbean Group selecting Starlink to provide high-speed, low-latency internet across their fleet will make their passengers’ getaways even more luxurious,” said SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Sales Jonathan Hofeller. “We couldn’t be more excited to work with Royal Caribbean Group to ensure travelers at sea can stay connected with a great internet experience.”
Foodies and culinary novices alike, who are ready for a gastronomic adventure can set sail on a Holland America Line “Culinary Cruise” in 2022 with a member from the line’s Culinary Council. The celebrity chefs will share their expertise and secrets on everything from the correct way to make a sushi roll and how to perfectly temper chocolate to preparing seafood and creating a delicious sauce.
2022 ‘Culinary Cruises’
During each “Culinary Cruise,” guests will have the opportunity to attend cooking demonstrations led by the chefs, bring home recipes from each presentation and join an intimate reservation-only dinner at Pinnacle Grill, Rudi’s Sel de Mer or Nami Sushi, depending on the chef. Culinary Council chef signature dishes will be highlighted when available on all restaurant menus during the cruises.
Holland America Line’s Culinary Council
“Holland America Line’s culinary program is guided by some of the world’s foremost talents, and no other cruise line has this level of experience from such a team of experts,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and guest services, Holland America Line. “It’s not every day you learn a recipe directly from the famous chef who created it and hear their secrets to success in the kitchen. We have been eager to reengage our talented Culinary Council chefs to come back on board and offer guests this exclusive level of access.”
A Collection of Elite Chefs
Holland America Line’s Culinary Council comprises a collection of elite chefs who bring global influence to the dining experience across the fleet. In addition to their featured recipes in the various on-board venues, one evening in the Dining Room on every cruise a special menu offers a collection of dishes from the Culinary Council members.
2022 CULINARY CRUISES: Celebrity Chefs
Ethan Stowell incorporates the flavors of the Pacific Northwest on ships sailing in that region, using fresh, sustainably sourced Alaska seafood.
Stowell incorporates the flavors of the Pacific Northwest on ships sailing in that region, using fresh, sustainably sourced Alaska seafood. His fare also is featured at New York Pizza and Lido Market across the fleet. Stowell is founder and CEO of ESR with an impressive roster of highly acclaimed restaurants. He was named one of the Best New Chefs in America by Food & Wine magazine and one of the Best New Chef All-Stars.
Jacques Torres is a French-trained master chef and artisan chocolatier, Torres guides chocolate desserts as well as the Chocolate Surprise Dessert Parade on board.
A French-trained master chef and artisan chocolatier, Torres guides chocolate desserts as well as the Chocolate Surprise Dessert Parade on board. After rising to executive pastry chef at New York’s legendary Le Cirque, he opened a chocolate factory and retail stores throughout New York. The James Beard Award winner is co-host and head judge on the Netflix culinary show “Nailed It” with Nicole Byer.
Rudi Sodamin is Holland America Line’s master chef and Culinary Council chairman, Austrian-born Sodamin oversees all aspects of shipboard dining.
As Holland America Line’s master chef and Culinary Council chairman, Austrian-born Sodamin oversees all aspects of shipboard dining. Rudi’s Sel de Mer is his namesake French seafood brasserie on board. His latest culinary masterpiece is an art table book called “Food Faces” that features more than 150 images of edible creations.
David Burke enhances the menu at Pinnacle Grill, adding contemporary flavors and signature recipes. He recently opened five new restaurants, including Orchard Park by David Burke.
Burke enhances the menu at Pinnacle Grill, adding contemporary flavors and signature recipes. He recently opened five new restaurants, including Orchard Park by David Burke. During the pandemic, Burke’s #FeedtheHeroes program cooked and delivered 100,000 meals to frontline workers and charities. He has been featured on “Iron Chef America” and “Top Chef Masters.”
Andy Matsuda leads the sushi offerings at Nami Sushi, Tamarind and Lido Market.
The Japanese-born Matsuda leads the sushi offerings at Nami Sushi, Tamarind and Lido Market. At Matsuda’s Sushi Chef Institute in Los Angeles, California, he teaches aspiring chefs and professionals about sushi and Japanese cuisine. Matsuda is at the forefront of sushi trends and techniques.
All events are complimentary excluding the specialty dinner. Each chef will be aboard their designated “Culinary Cruise” for four to ten days.
For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.
MSC Cruises’ new U.S. flagship will be packed with high-tech fun. Today the company announced a range of advanced onboard entertainment options on the upcoming MSC Seascape, starting with ROBOTRON – a new cruise ship thrill ride coming to the seas for the first time and combining the breath-taking rush of a rollercoaster with personalized music and lighting. The ship will also feature two new VR experiences and additional high-tech entertainment designed for thrill-seekers of all ages.
A High-Tech Cruise Ship Thrill Ride
ROBOTRON is a new cruise ship thrill ride coming to the seas for the first time and combining the breath-taking rush of a rollercoaster with personalized music and lighting.
ROBOTRON – A Thrilling Amusement Ride
“We are excited to give our guests more access to cutting-edge experiences, which is why MSC Cruises’ is committed to bringing our newest ships to the U.S. We’re the first cruise line to offer something like ROBOTRON at sea, and we can’t wait for thrill-seekers to discover the ride of their life surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean. Our new virtual reality motorcycles and flight simulator – plus fan favorites like the MSC Formula Racer and XD Cinema – will also feature truly immersive experiences, providing the most exhilarating line-up of rides we’ve ever offered.” said, Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA.
ROBOTRON riders will be able to select their desired thrill level – a first among robotic arm rides – ranging from family-friendly to high-intensity. They can also set the mood with colored lights, music preferences and more. Coupled with the adjacent video screen, ROBOTRON acts as a moving DJ booth, with the rhythm and bass visualized as colorful patterns and pulses of light while the robotic arm is bouncing and twisting in tempo.
Other high-tech entertainment features on board MSC Seascapeinclude:
VR 360° Flight Simulator: This ride offers the ultimate virtual motion experience, complete with VR headsets and impressive special effects. Guests can choose from various worlds to dive into a thrill-ride like no other.
VR Motorcycles: Guests with a need for speed will love MSC Seascape’s new VR motorcycles, where players will be transported to the racetrack with wind and water effects to complete the experience.
Immersive XD Cinema: The minute guests put on their 3D glasses, they dive into alternate worlds where players will battle it out against zombies, skeletons and more. Only one player can be crowned the victor, so guests will need to prove their sharp-shooting skills against each other for ultimate bragging rights.
MSC Seascape
MSC Seascape
Cruise lovers and thrill seekers can be first on board by sailing MSC Seascape’s delivery trip across the Atlantic. The 17-night MSC Grand Voyage will offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, departing Civatavecchia (Rome) on Saturday, November 19 with stops in Spain, Portugal, and Bermuda prior to arriving in New York City on Monday, December 5—a memorable way to spend Thanksgiving at sea.
Robotron
New York Naming Ceremony In December
MSC Seascape will be launched in New York at a glittering Naming Ceremony on December 7, 2022 and then go into service from PortMiami, offering year-round Caribbean cruises with two different itineraries:
Eastern Caribbean:Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau (The Bahamas), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic)
Western Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel (Mexico), George Town (Cayman Islands), and Ocho Rios (Jamaica)
For more information about MSC Seascape, click here.
Norwegian Cruise Line christened its newest ship Norwegian Prima, on Aug. 27, 2022, which made history as the first major cruise ship christened in Reykjavík, Iceland.
Global superstar and godmother of Norwegian Prima, Katy Perry, joins Norwegian Cruise Line executives in Reykjavik, Iceland to officially christen and name NCL’s 18th vessel in its leading-edge Prima Class.
The first of six ships in the groundbreaking Prima Class, Norwegian Prima, debuted to more than 2,500 guests who enjoyed an immersive experience in the beautiful Icelandic capital and a christening celebration like no other.
NCL Officially Welcomes Norwegian Prima
“With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own,” said Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “As the industry’s most spacious new cruise ship featuring ‘only-available-on-Prima-experiences,’ she is continuing NCL’s legacy of industry firsts. We wanted to launch Norwegian Prima in a location just as special and unique as she is, and Reykjavik’s striking landscape is the perfect setting for such a milestone occasion. We thank the Reykjavik community for welcoming us with open arms.”
Norwegian Prima
At 965 feet (294 meters long) and more than 143,535 tons with capacity for 3,100 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Prima offers the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any contemporary or premium cruise ship. She also boasts the largest variety of suite categories available at sea as well as a redefined The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s ultra-premium keycard only access ship-within-a-ship concept. Her variety of recreational activities including the fastest slides at sea – The Rush and The Drop – and the Prima Speedway, the first three-level racetrack at sea, provide guests with adrenaline-pumping moments. Spaces like Ocean Boulevard, the 44,000 square foot outdoor walk way which wraps around the entire ship; The Concourse, which boasts a multi-million dollar outdoor sculpture garden; and expansive pool decks and infinity style pools at Infinity Beach, offer guests a chance to slow down and relax. To learn more about all Norwegian Prima offers, please click here.
Godmother Katy Perry
Guests at the christening ceremony were treated to a show-stopping performance by popular Icelandic group and 2021 “Eurovision Song Contest” fan favorites, Daði og Gagnamagnið (pronounced “Dah-they Oh Gack-no-Mak-ne”), before Norwegian Prima’s very own godmother, Katy Perry took to the main stage to officially name and christen the vessel with the ceremonial champagne bottle break across the ship’s hull. The three-level Prima Theater & Club stage was then transformed into a whimsical backdrop where guests enjoyed a powerhouse performance of some of Perry’s chart-topping hits including “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” “Roar,” and “Firework.”
It was so much fun to sprinkle some fairy godmother dust on Norwegian Prima and send her on her way to sail the high seas,” said Katy Perry. “I always appreciate a family vacation and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I was happy to wish all the vacationing guests a happy bon voyage!”
Norwegian Prima will depart on inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from the Netherlands, Denmark and England beginning Sept. 3, 2022, before making her way to the U.S. She will then sail voyages to the Caribbean from New York City, Galveston, Texas, and Miami in October and November before settling into her homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla., and Galveston, Texas for the 2023 and 2024 cruise season.
Calvin Ashley, Senior manager, guest communications and online communities, Kristi Ainsworth, manager, youth operations, Vicky Rey, Vice President, guest care and communications Dominique.
Carnival Cruise Line works hard every day to take care of guests with special needs and this past weekend, Carnival was surprised with KultureCity’s Human Highlight Award for one particular effort at the organization’s annual national gala, KultureBall, in Birmingham, Alabama.
The honor is given to one organization that “makes the nevers possible” and goes above and beyond to advocate for sensory inclusion and acceptance of those with disabilities. In June, Carnival assisted a family who was unable to fly home to New Jersey after a trip to Aruba. As a special added surprise during the ceremony, KultureCity invited the mother, Jamie Greene, to personally give Carnival the award.
Vicky Rey, vice president of guest care and communications at Carnival Cruise Line and Jamie Greene
“We empathized with the challenging situation Jamie and her son Elijah were in, and it was natural for us to step in and do the right thing to help this family get home safely,” said Vicky Rey, vice president of guest care and communications at Carnival Cruise Line. “We work daily to make a difference in people’s lives, and we are grateful for the opportunity to help and for this special recognition.”
Every Carnival ship also offers KultureCity Sensory Bags, which include items to help calm, relax and manage sensory overload such as comfortable noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual feeling thermometer, and a KultureCity VIP lanyard, to help Carnival team members easily identify a guest.
For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.
