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Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different

Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse represents longtime luxury river operator Scenic Cruises’ initial foray into the oceans. 

The vessel is quite the bold ship, too. The line calls Scenic Eclipse the world’s first “discovery yacht,” positioning the vessel as a luxury option for expedition cruise adventures. 

The ship was christened September 10 at Pier 88 at Manhattan Cruise Terminal in NYC, and it will sail more than half the year in the polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica. Carrying 228-passengers in 114 suites, Scenic Eclipse stands out for several interesting things that it offers cruise passengers both on the ship and off.  

Cruise Addicts sailed on Scenic Eclipse from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to New York and discovered five ways that Scenic Eclipse is a different kind of expedition ship. 

Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
The ship features luxurious amenities, such as a large spa.
Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
Use of the thermal suite is complimentary on the all-inclusive ship.

The Luxury 

This is the world’s first expedition vessel that aims to cater to deep-pocketed passengers, offering the styles and comforts expected on a luxury cruise voyage. So, while the destinations feature extreme weather conditions and your daily program offers ample opportunities to dive into new adventures, you can do it all while being pampered. 

Scenic Eclipse offers spacious public areas, with the main Discovery Lounge and its Whiskey Bar as the hub. There are more than 150 types of whiskey available. The cruise is all-inclusive, and the only thing you pay for are helicopter rides, submarine excursions, and spa treatments. 

The ship has a large spa on Deck 6 with three treatment rooms. It features separate areas for men and women, each with a steam room, thermal lounge, sauna, plunge pool, and experience showers. The spa also offers an outdoor deck with loungers and a hot tub at the back of the ship. 

Scenic Eclipse’s fitness center is sizable and has a decent complement of cardio and weight-training equipment, certainly enough for 200-plus passengers. There is also a separate large yoga and Pilates studio.  

The fancy amenities don’t stop there. The ship has a high-end boutique offering items like designer handbags and clothing. 

Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
Scenic Eclipse carries two helicopters and a submarine to use for one-of-a-kind excursions.

The Toys 

Scenic Eclipse is the first cruise ship with helicopters, and it has two of them stored in hangars on the back of Deck 8. They each carry up to six passengers, and you can choose rides lasting 20 or 40 minutes in these sleek shiny black machines operated by a team of mechanics and pilots.  

There is also a submarine that can fit up to six people. A sub captain takes cruisers up to 300 feet below the surface to explore reefs and wrecks. One group on our sailing found a wreck off the coast of Halifax. The Discovery Team of guides also offers daily activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides. These are launched from the Discovery Centre locker room area down on Deck 3 that leads out to the marina at the back of the ship. 

Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
The ship features eight restaurants serving gourmet cuisine.

The Food 

A true highlight of a cruise on Scenic Eclipse is the gourmet cuisine. Boasting eight restaurants, Scenic Eclipse is unlike any other expedition ship. Plus, you can order room service any time of day from a large menu of items. I recommend the burgers and fries! 

Epicure is a cooking class offered in a studio. You can learn techniques for about three dozen types of cuisine like spring rolls or ceviche. Executive Chef Tom Goetter was runner-up on Germany’s Top Chef competition, and he leads a restaurant team with 22 staff representing 14 nations. 

Scenic Eclipse features a French restaurant, a buffet in the Yacht Club pool area, the main dining room serving Italian, seafood and steaks, and an Asian-fusion eatery Koko’s, which also is the location of the sushi bar (fish flown in fresh from Japan) and a teppanyaki room. The ship also has a café, Azure, that offers lighter bites in a tapas-style format. 

The Chef’s Table is the best we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship, with 11 to 14 courses of creative fare that tell a story and fill the senses. 

Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
The opulent ship has a stylish modern design. The Whiskey Bar stands out in the main lounge.

 

The Design 

It’s definitely got the look of a classic yacht – a very big yacht. Deck 5 extends out to the bow with an expansive open viewing area just ahead of the ship’s Observation Lounge. Scenic Eclipse is a head-turner as it sails into port. 

You have to go outside to get a good view of the wilderness, though. Seats inside the Observation Lounge are comfy, with a library and tea service available as you enjoy the serene space, but views are obstructed by the massive deck. 

The main lounge is gorgeous and the centerpiece of the ship. The Whiskey Bar is an art piece in itself with its tall tower of illuminated bottles. 

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All suites are spacious and feature plenty of storage and large walk-in showers. The TVs are off to the side of the room in front of the couch and integrated into the floor-to-ceiling mirror. Cruisers might be disappointed that the TV is not in front of the bed if they want to unwind at the end of the day with a movie. Décor throughout the ship features blacks, grays, and blues, giving the ship a modern elegance. 

The Yacht Club has a large pool, but its location amid a busy buffet seating area seems destined to lead to awkward situations when swimmers splash around or use the loungers and showers adjacent to diners having their breakfast or lunch. 

Cruising on Scenic Eclipse, the First “Discovery Yacht”: How It’s Different | 18
Scenic Eclipse has a range of hi-tech features such as a dynamic GPS positioning so that it doesn’t have to drop an anchor when putting out the marina at the back of the ship.

The Cruising 

The ship is rated as Polar Class 6 vessel, the highest of any luxury vessel. This allows Scenic Eclipse to safely sail in the icy regions of the world. And it will cruise more smoothly and with a lesser environmental footprint than most vessels.  

The ship features forward bow thrusters, electronic Azipod propulsion, and its custom stabilizers are 50 percent larger than standard for smoother sailing in rough waters. 

The GPS dynamic positioning system means that no anchors are dropped into the water (which could damage sensitive reefs and seabeds). Scenic Eclipse will offer light expedition or classic sailing experiences in non-polar regions and will sail with 200 passengers on its Arctic and Antarctic full expedition cruises.


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Seatrade Europe Sets Record-breaking Attendance

Seatrade Europe 2019 Show Floor

Seatrade Europe, the leading trade event for the European ocean cruise and river cruise industry closed yesterday (13 September 2019) with a footfall of over 5,000 and a record-breaking number of cruise line executives in attendance indicating that the European cruise market continues to go from strength to strength.

Michael Thamm, Chairman of CLIA Europe kick-started the event addressing a 450-strong audience during the opening ‘State of the European Cruise Industry’ session, reporting, “The growth of our business year after year is reflected in fleet size, which currently counts 290 ships with an order book of 114 newbuilds arriving over the next 8 years, many of them in the expedition and luxury segments. “

Co-located with the first MARINE INTERIORS Cruise & Ferry Global Expo, powered by SMM, the two events staged new and exciting elements in both exhibition halls including free-to-attend content in the Showcase Deck and MARINE INTERIORS Forum.

Visitors filled the Showcase Deck theatre of the trade show floor with standing room only available in interactive sessions such as Lightning Pitch, ‘What’s New at My Port/Destination?’, which saw ports, destinations and service providers representing countries from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean and North Europe to the Cape Verde Islands present to a panel of cruise line judges.

Seatrade Europe Sets Record-breaking Attendance | 18
alt=”State of the Industry – Seatrade Europe 2019″ width=”1024″ height=”683″ /> State of the Industry – Seatrade Europe 2019

The show welcomed 95 speakers, its highest ever, evoking insightful and rich conversations. A full and engaging conference programme covered topical issues and trends ranging from greener cruising and sustainability to technology, expedition, and interior design.

The Newcomers Boulevard positioned in the central walkway of the show floor was bustling as 15 new exhibiting suppliers from safety equipment to electronics and lighting to uniform and amenities networked with visiting buyers and cruise lines looking for new to cruise suppliers.

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The final day concluded with a focus onshore excursions provoking discussion on the interpretation of the term ‘experiential’. Panellist David Vass, SVP Worldwide Cruise Business & Operations, Abercrombie & Kent Destination Management commented, “Experiential is fluid; it is constantly changing” whilst it was agreed technology such as virtual reality applications could enrich the shorex experience.’

The next Seatrade Europe will be held at the Hamburg Fair site from 8-10 September 2021 alongside the co-located MARINE INTERIORS Cruise & Ferry Global Expo. For more information please go to www.seatrade-europe.com


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Eight New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2020

Scarlet Lady
Scarlet Lady

The fast-growing cruise industry always seems to have a slew of exciting new ships coming launching each year. And next year is no different, with an impressive batch of new cruise ships representing all sizes and styles. Check out these new cruise ships set to debut in 2020. 

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
Virgin Voyages first cruise ship will be Scarlet Lady. The ship will debut next year with cruises from Miami to the Caribbean.

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady 

The first ship from Richard Branson’s new cruise line features mostly balcony and oceanview cabins and carries 2,700-plus passengers.  

The ship will be all about having fun with a stylishly casual, rock and roll vibe. The ship offers 20 dining venues but no main dining room. All meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included in your fare. The ship also is filled with roving entertainment, bars, lounges and spa and fitness venues. 

Captain Wendy Williams will be at the helm of the adults-only ship as it sets sail from Miami on voyages to the Caribbean. Itineraries include stops at Bimini in the Bahamas for party time at the private island oasis Bimini Beach Club.  

Scarlet Lady is the first of three ships that Virgin Voyages has in the works. The others are scheduled to debut in 2021 and 20222.  

MSC Virtuosa
MSC Virtuosa

MSC Cruises MSC Virtuosa 

This MSC Cruises’ mega-ship (2,441 staterooms and able to carry more than 6,000 passengers) will be music to the ears of cruisers. Each deck is named for an instrument, and entertainment will include two new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows.  

The ship will offer a wide range of activities and amenities, such as the Polar Aquapark, TV Studio and Bar (for talent contests, quizzes, games and watching live sports), clubs, MSC Aurea Spa, MSC Gym, SportsPlex, central promenade and Atmosphere Pool with a big screen. MSC Virtuosa is scheduled to set sail in November 2020 and take cruisers on voyages in the Mediterranean. 

Celebrity Apex
Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Apex 

Celebrity Apex is set to debut in spring 2020 and will be the second in the cruise line’s Celebrity Edge Class. The ship will carry 2,900 passengers and sail Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.  

Features include The Magic Carpet cantilevered flexible space that can be used to provide additional venues (bars, lounges, eateries) at several deck positions as it moves along the side of the ship. Celebrity Apex also will offer The Retreat for suite passengers, The Rooftop Garden oasis, staterooms that feature Infinite Veranda indoor/outdoor balcony designs and a gorgeous Resort Deck offering the main pool and lounger areas outside.  

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection Azora 
Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection Azora  

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection  

The new cruise line is set to offer luxury cruises on the first of three planned custom-built yachts from the company with a legacy in the hotel and resorts industry. 

Ritz Carlton’s first ship, a yet-to-be-named 298-passenger yacht (due to launch in February 2020), features staterooms with private terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows. Passengers will be able to dine at five different restaurants, and watersports will launch from the aft sports marina, with kayaks and standup paddleboards available. The ship’s inaugural cruise will set sail from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean, and it will sail voyages around the globe in its first year. 

Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras

Carnival Cruise Line Mardi Gras 

Carnival Mardi Gras is set to debut in August 2020 as the largest ship in the fleet for the biggest cruise line. The 5,200-passenger vessel also introduces an innovative concept of “Zones,” six themed regions onboard. These spaces — Grand Central, The French Quarter, Summer Landing, La Piazza, Lido and the Ultimate Playground – will house a variety of activities, amenities and eateries.  

Eight New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2020 | 18
Mardi Gras Will Feature World’s First Roller Coaster At Sea” width=”1024″ height=”660″ /> Carnival’s Mardi Gras Will Feature World’s First Roller Coaster At Sea

Also, Carnival Mardi Gras also brings the first roller-coaster at sea, Bolt, which allows riders to control their speeds as they zoom around the ship, enjoying the views from high above. The ship will be based in Port Canaveral and sail Caribbean cruises.

 

Eight New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2020 | 18

Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas 

Debuting in fall 2020, Odyssey of the Seas represents Royal Caribbean’s second Quantum Ultra class ship (Spectrum of the Seas). This is the next generation class from the ships Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. 

Odyssey of the Seas will sail from a port to be named in the United States and is set to carry more than 4,200 passengers. It will feature Royal Caribbean’s first “ship-within-a-ship” experience, meaning passengers can book suites in a special area that offers a more exclusive program of dining, concierge services, lounge and pool area. 

Silversea Silver Origin
Silver Origin

Silversea Silver Origin 

This new ship is purpose-built for Galapagos expeditions. Silver Origin is a luxury ship that carries up to 100 passengers for adventurous exploration. The all-suite expedition ship offers butler service, two restaurants, a fleet of eight Zodiacs and an exquisite Explorer Lounge and Basecamp (staging venue to prepare for skiff launches for each adventure).  

Silver Origin is due to set sail in summer 2020 for weeklong voyages between Baltra and San Cristobal. 

Crystal Endeavor
Crystal Endeavor

Crystal Cruises Crystal Endeavor 

This is the luxury cruise line’s first expedition ship, joining its fleet of ocean and river vessels.  

Crystal Endeavor is an all-suite, all-balcony expedition ship that promises to offer the pinnacle of all-inclusive luxury and service, sailing with just 200 passengers and a 1-to-1 passenger to crew ratio. Crystal Endeavor boasts six specialty Michelin-inspired restaurants, a casino, glass-enclosed solarium, Crystal Life Spa, butler service, two eight-passenger helicopters and a submarine.


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Carnival Corporation Partners with Tropical Shipping to Collect and Ship Donations to The Bahamas National Emergency Management Agency

Carnival Panorama Sea Trials
Carnival Panorama as seen during our recent sea trials

Companies coordinate with Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties to provide much-needed emergency food and supplies to The Bahamas

Today Carnival Corporation & plc announced a partnership with Tropical Shipping and The Bahamas National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to collect and deliver NEMA-approved food and supplies donated in BrowardMiami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties for the people of The Bahamas.

Carnival Corporation is partnering with Tropical Shipping, which will serve as an approved clearinghouse and distribution center for non-profit organizations, schools, businesses and residents of Broward CountyMiami-Dade County, and Palm Beach County to expedite timely delivery of donated food and goods collected in the local South Florida community. The effort, funded by both companies, will work in partnership with NEMA to provide immediate assistance to the people of the Bahamas where it is most needed.

Tropical Shipping, which has provided freight shipping to and from the Caribbean and The Bahamas for over 50 years, will stock and then ship and directly deliver the containers to NEMA in The Bahamas. Carnival Corporation, along with its nine cruise line brands, will cover shipping costs, as well as provide food and supplies as part of the overall effort.

At the end of this announcement is the list Bahamian-approved food and supplies for donation, along with a list of drop-off center locations. Inquiries can be sent to HurricaneCentral@tropical.com

“We have received an outpouring of calls and emails from concerned individuals, local leaders, non-profit groups and the South Florida business community asking how they can provide support to The Bahamas,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “By working together, we can collectively provide much-needed food and supplies to people in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane.”
 
“We are honored to partner with Carnival Corporation in this community-wide effort to assist our neighbors in The Bahamas,” said Rick Murrell, chairman of Tropical Shipping. “Our two companies have worked together for many years on logistics in the region and on helping with weather-related events.  This initiative is as an opportunity to work together with countless others to provide support when and where it is most needed.”

“As a descendent of the Abaco Islands, I am particularly grateful to Carnival Corporation for this magnanimous humanitarian effort,” said Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson. “I have been in conversation with the corporation for some time about how it can help the Bahamian diaspora both preserve its heritage here in Miami and enhance its long-standing partnership with the nation’s tourism industry. Carnival Corporation’s generous support in response to Hurricane Dorian’s assault on the islands is an extension of an existing friendship and I look forward to working with the organization, Prime Minister Hubert Minnis, our Consul General, County and City mayors and Commissioners to provide relief during this devastating period.”

“Our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation is extended to Carnival Corporation and Tropical Shipping for their humanitarian efforts in the time of loss and devastation to our neighbors in the Bahamas and its people,” said Chairwoman Audrey M. EdmonsonMiami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners. “Your generous support and commitment to ship donated goods and needed supplies from Miami-Dade County and South Florida to designated drop-off points in the Bahamas is invaluable. We appreciate having Carnival Corporation and Tropical Shipping as our partners in this emergency effort.”

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“We have a great friendship and long-time partnership with The Bahamas, and over many years our cruise line brands have sailed millions of guests to its famous ports, which are well-loved by our guests,” said Donald. “It is heart-breaking to see the extent of the hurricane’s damage, but working together, we will do our part in supporting the Bahamians as they begin working to rebuild, recover and again welcome visitors to their country,”

Added Donald: “This is the first part of many efforts to provide support and assistance to The Bahamas where it is most needed..

NEMA-Approved Donated Food and Supplies List for the People of The Bahamas

Items

Comment

Ready-To-Eat Meals

Tents

Cots

Adult Size

Hygiene Kits

Pampers (all sizes), baby wipes, sanitary napkins, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, adult diapers, hand sanitizer

Bottled Water

Cases

Non-Perishable Food Items

Canned fish, canned meats, canned pureed veg, peanut butter, jars of baby food, powdered milk, baby formula

Disposable Cutlery

Pre-packed cutlery, cups, plates

Water Bladders

Size: 2,500 gallons

Reusable Water Containers

Size: 3 gallons

First Aid Items

Sterile bandages/gauze (all sizes), tape

Portable Generators

15KW – 25KW

Chain Saws

Plastic Tarpaulin

Debris Removal Tools

Shovels, rakes, axes, wheelbarrows

Portable Single and Double Burner Stoves

Portable Outdoor Lamps/Lights

Battery operated

Water Purification Kits

Brita water filters and purification tablets

Flashlights

Wind-up and battery operated

Blankets and Towels

Insect Repellents

Spray, bracelets

Portable Radios

Wind-up and battery operated

Batteries

D Cell, AA

Portable Bathroom

Cleaning Supplies

Bleach, brooms, mops, pinesol, garbage bags

Life Jackets and Ponchos

Adult and child size

DROP-OFF LOCATIONS FOR FOOD AND SUPPLIES FOR THE BAHAMAS

Note: Updates on additional drop-off sites may be provided as more details become available.

Miami-Dade County Main Library – Miami Dade
Hours: Accepting donations Monday – Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
101 W. Flagler St.
Miami, FL 33130 
(305) 375-2665

Stephen P. Clark Center – Miami Dade
Hours: Accepting donations Monday – Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
111 NW First St., Miami.
Miami, FL 33128

Joseph Caleb Center – Miami Dade
Hours: Accepting donations Monday – Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
5400 NW 22 Ave.
Miami, FL 33142

Office of Emergency Management Warehouse – Miami Dade 
Hours: Accepting donations Monday – Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
8008 NW 14 St.
Doral, FL 33126

Tropical Shipping Cargo Receiving Location – Miami 
Tropical Shipping 
Hours: M – F, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 
9505 NW 108th Avenue
Medley, FL 33178 
(561) 881-3999
(561) 881-3951
hurricanecentral@tropical.com

Tropical Shipping Cargo Receiving Location – West Palm Beach
Hours: M – F, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
1489 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Riviera Beach, Florida 33404 
(561) 881-3999 
(561) 881-3951
hurricanecentral@tropical.com

Additional information can be found on www.carnival.comwww.princess.comwww.hollandamerica.comwww.seabourn.comwww.pocruises.com.auwww.costacruise.comwww.aida.dewww.pocruises.com and www.cunard.com.


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Carnival Corporation and Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation Pledge $2 Million for Hurricane Dorian Relief

Carnival Corporation
Carnival Corporation

Today Carnival Corporation & plc announced that the corporation’s philanthropic arm, Carnival Foundation, and its nine global cruise line brands together with the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation have pledged to donate $2 million in funding and in-kind support for relief efforts in The Bahamas following Hurricane Dorian.

Carnival Foundation and the company’s nine cruise line brands – Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard, P&O Cruises (Australia) and P&O Cruises (UK) – are pledging a total of $1 million in monetary and in-kind donations in support of immediate relief and recovery efforts in The Bahamas. Carnival Corporation Chairman Micky Arison and his wife Madeleine are matching the corporation’s commitment with a $1 million donation from the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation.

“We are fully committed to supporting the critical relief and recovery efforts already underway for The Bahamas, and we are working closely with officials and affected communities to identify the needs for support and assistance,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “Our company has always been closely tied to The Bahamas with a rich history spanning many years, so it’s heartbreaking to see the impact of Hurricane Dorian, and our thoughts and prayers are with the people of The Bahamas. We have long admired the unyielding spirit of the Bahamian people and have no doubt they will overcome, rebuild and recover, and we look forward to supporting their efforts.”

A portion of the combined pledge will immediately go to support efforts being managed by Direct Relief, an international humanitarian organization that provides critical medications and supplies during emergency situations. Direct Relief is currently assembling and delivering requested medical aid and additional emergency medical caches with first-aid supplies to the affected areas in The Bahamas.

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In addition, Carnival Corporation and its brands are working together with local officials, community leaders and key relief and recovery organizations to identify the most timely and urgent relief needs and immediate allocations for additional funds and support.

Separately, the company today announced an effort to collect and deliver food and supplies donated in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties for the people of The Bahamas, through a partnership with Tropical Shipping and The Bahamas National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The effort, funded by Carnival Corporation and Tropical Shipping, will work in partnership with NEMA to provide immediate assistance to the people of the Bahamas where it is most needed.

Additional information can be found on www.carnival.comwww.princess.comwww.hollandamerica.comwww.seabourn.comwww.pocruises.com.auwww.costacruise.comwww.aida.dewww.pocruises.com, and www.cunard.com.


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Viking Cruises Guests Embark on a 245-Day Ultimate World Cruise Today

World's Best
Viking Sun

245-Day Roundtrip Journey Embarks Today in London is the Longest-Ever Continuous Passenger Cruise

Today Viking® guests will embark on the new Ultimate World Cruise itinerary, a 245-day journey spanning six continents, 51 countries, and 111 ports. Sailing from London on Viking’s award-winning 930-guest Viking Sun®, the longest-ever continuous cruise will fully circumnavigate the globe bringing guests to some of the world’s most legendary cities, iconic landmarks and far-flung destinations, before returning to London in May 2020. In beginning this journey, Viking will attempt to set the GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for the “longest continuous passenger cruise;” upon the return of Viking Sun to London next year, an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORD Adjudicator will confirm the successful attempt with a certificate presentation.

“For more than 20 years we have been committed to connecting travelers to culturally immersive experiences that allow them to explore the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our Ultimate World Cruise is the most extensive itinerary available in the industry, nearly double the length of our previous world cruise itineraries. I am pleased to offer such a unique experience for our guests.”

Viking’s Ultimate World Cruise offers an eight-month journey, allowing guests to explore Scandinavia, the Caribbean and destinations throughout South America before calling on the remote tropical islands of the South Pacific. Viking Sun will then continue its journey along the coast of Australia and through Asia before returning to the Mediterranean and Europe.

Viking Ultimate World Cruise Map 2019-2020
Viking Ultimate World Cruise Map 2019-2020 roundtrip from London in 245 days. The itinerary features six continents and visits 111 of the world’s greatest cities and charming smaller ports. Immerse yourself in local culture with 23 overnight stays.

Like all Viking itineraries, Ultimate World Cruise guests will enjoy an included excursion in each port of call and free unlimited Wi-Fi; they also receive Business Class airfare and all gratuities and service fees, along with an extensive list of added-value inclusions in their cruise fare. The Viking Way of exploration offers additional, optional excursions that provide insight into Local Life, Working World and offer Privileged Access® visits to cultural institutions. Overnight stays in 23 cities allow guests to delve deeper into destinations; and Viking’s Culture Curriculum® offers additional enrichment on board with regional entertainment and lectures, as well as learning opportunities as part of the Viking Resident Historian® program. Full details on the Ultimate World Cruise can be found on Viking’s website here; highlights include:

  • Greenwich: London at Your Door – Dock in the historic Royal Borough of Greenwich, London, which allows guests easy access to the regal capital’s iconic sights, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace.
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Peak of Brazilian Culture – One of the 23 overnight stays on this itinerary occurs in the historic city of Rio de Janeiro, where guests can witness the larger-than-life Christ the Redeemer statue or relax on the scenic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches of this coastal metropolis.
  • Ushuaia, Argentina: “End of the World” – Commonly referred to as the “End of the World,” guests will visit Ushuaia, a city perched on a steep hill on the southernmost tip of South America, and explore its lush scenery through excursions to the nearby Escondido and Fagnano Lakes or the Tierra del Fuego National Park, which was first inhabited by humans 10,000 years ago.
  • Hobart, Tasmania: An Island of History and Wilderness — The capital of Australia’s island state of Tasmania, Hobart offers guests the chance to learn about its aborigine history and explore its unique wilderness area, including Mt. Wellington, which the city is nestled under.
  • Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Vibrant Saigon – This eclectic city, home to a mix of modern skyscrapers, French colonial buildings, and ornate palaces, offers a variety of experiences for guests, including the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Reunification Palace.
  • Mumbai, India: The Front Door to India – The bustling city of Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is the financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India. While in port, guests can learn about the iconic activist Gandhi at the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum and visit the Hanging Gardens, one of the prized few parks found in the busy metropolis.
  • Luxor, Egypt: Temples and Tombs – The site of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, Luxor is dense with historical monuments for guests to explore, including the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings & Valley of the Queens, which house the tombs of the Pharaohs and their wives.
The Explorers Lounge
The Explorers Lounge

The Viking Difference

Designed for discerning travelers with interests in history, art, music, and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port and more overnights. Local Life excursions shine a light on everyday activities and include experiences such as Viking Chef-hosted trips to local farmers markets, tea at home with local residents and visits with local schoolchildren. Working World excursions feature behind-the-scenes “making of” experiences, illuminating destinations through their most famous exports, such as factory and farm visits. Privileged Access excursions include experiences such as a behind-the-scenes tours at Highclere Castle, the “real Downton Abbey;” visiting St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum “behind closed doors;” a private cooking class in a Tuscan castle; an intimate organ concert in the Berlin Cathedral; and an exclusive dinner in the Churchill War Rooms in London.

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In addition, Viking offers a compelling value compared to other cruise lines. Every cruise fare includes an outside stateroom, a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; alternative restaurant dining; free Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service.

Booking Details

From September 1, 2019, through September 30, 2019, U.S. residents can take advantage of Viking’s Anniversary Sale, offering special cruise fares on the select 2020-2021 ocean and river itineraries. For more information visit VikingCruises.com or call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent.


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Our Guide to Cruise Line’s Private Beach Destinations

Caribbean cruises offer a chance to get away to sandy beaches and exotic places to enjoy time in the sunshine, playing and relaxing.  

Several of the large cruise lines operate their own private Caribbean beach destinations that put all you want right in one place, so you can simply step off your ship and right into the fun. 

This is Cruise Addicts’ ultimate guide to the private beach destinations for cruise lines

Castaway Cay
Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.

Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay 

Where: Castaway Cay is located in the Abaco Islands chain in the northern Bahamas. 

What’s There: Disney ships dock at a pier instead of tendering passengers ashore, and a shuttle service helps passengers get from the pier and around the island. Castaway Cay features beaches, lagoons for swimming and snorkeling, water play areas, scenic walking trails, open-air barbecue spots, and shops. Plus, families will enjoy the Disney character greetings and the dance party with Lilo and Stitch. Not interested in the characters and kids? You can relax on the island’s adults-only areas, as well. 

Cool Tips: Disney counselors can provide supervision for cruisers ages 3 to 12 at the island kid’s club, Scuttle’s Cove. Runners will want to participate in the Castaway Cay 5K fun race that takes place on a designated route on the island on the morning of your ship’s visit. 

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Carnival Cruise Line’s Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Amber Cove 

Where: Amber Cove is located in the very northern part of the Dominican Republic, in Puerto Plata.  

What’s There: Up to two ships can dock at the pier at Amber Cove, which is a full-service port area. Passengers can go off on tours and activities away from Amber Cove or choose to spend their time enjoying the facilities. The port area is decked out with hillside and overwater bungalows for rent, a large swimming pool with swim-up bar and a lazy river, splash areas, zip lines, waterslides, and water sports rentals. Amber Cove also features shops, restaurants, and bars. 

Cool Tips: The pool has plenty of loungers available, and you get excellent food and drink service there, so you can just relax and swim all day. Or head up the hill to the SkyBar for absolutely stunning 360-degree views of the port, sea and surrounding hills. 

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Holland America’s Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas. 

Holland America Line’s Half Moon Cay 

Where: Half Moon Cay is a small island located in the eastern Bahamas, about 100 miles southeast of Nassau. 

What’s There: You can rent private cabanas for your beach day. Cruisers tender ashore. The island features a horse farm and stables. This offers the chance for a fun excursion during which you ride on trails, along the beach and even splash through the water on horseback. Other activities include a stingray encounter, kayaking, bike rentals, basketball court, and playground. A barbecue lunch is offered at a pavilion on the island. 

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Cool Tips: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent a set on the island and walk down the beach away from the crowds all the way to the point for some excellent snorkeling. If the waters are calm enough, you can get out to a small wreck and spot all kinds of tropical fish. 

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MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay in the Bahamas.

MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay Marine Reserve 

Where: Ocean Cay is the biggest private cruise resort, located just 65 miles from Miami on an island in the Bahamas.  

What’s There: The 95-acre resort with a ship pier was made by rehabilitating a former sand-mining facility. It has more than four miles of beaches, as well as pristine lagoons, a food court, cabanas, shops, and a spa. Activities include shipwreck snorkeling, sunset cruises, and kayak tours.  

Cool Tips: Your onboard internet package also works on Ocean Cay. MSC also offers drinks packages for your day in Ocean Cay, and you save 15 percent if you book online ahead of your cruise. 

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Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at Coco Cay in the Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at Coco Cay 

Where: Coco Cay is an island in the Bahamas, located about 55 miles north of Nassau. 

What’s There: The resort is essentially an amusement park for cruisers. The sprawling facility was given a makeover in 2019 and features a waterpark, “Up, Up and Away” balloon ride, the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas, a wave pool, the tallest waterslide in North America and ziplines. You can book overwater cabanas and eat at five complimentary dining venues. Ships dock at a pier. 

Cool Tips: Your internet and drinks packages also work when you are on the island. Use the tram services that run every 15 minutes and stops at five destinations around Coco Cay. 

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Norwegian Cruise LIne’s Harvest Caye in Belize.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Harvest Caye 

Where: Harvest Caye is an island located in southern Belize, a beautiful Central American country in the Western Caribbean. 

What’s There: Norwegian Cruise Line’s facility offers private cabanas to rent, a large pool area with swim-up bar, The Flighthouse zipline adventure course, a saltwater lagoon for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding, shops and restaurants.  

Cool Tips: Ships dock at Harvest Caye, instead of tendering, and there is no included buffet lunch on the island. Some cruisers like to head back onto the ship to take advantage of the complimentary dining onboard. The port also offers a chance for a variety of shore excursions that take you to explore on the mainland of Belize. 

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Royal Caribbean’s Labadee in Haiti.

Royal Caribbean’s Labadee 

Where: Labadee is located on the northern coast of Haiti. 

What’s There: The private beach destination has a pier for the ship to dock. Attractions include numerous beach areas, private cabanas, the Dragon’s Tail coaster ride and the longest overwater zip line, the Dragon’s Breath. Labadee also features three venues offering included barbecue lunches, bars (drinks packages work at the resort) and the Arawak Aqua Park with the Dragon Splash waterslide. 

Cool Tips: Wade or swim over to the small Adrenaline Floating Bar set up in the lagoon area that the ziplines fly over. It’s a great spot to enjoy the water and views back to the shoreline. Check out the Artisan Market and Artisan Village shopping areas for hand-made souvenirs from local vendors. Bring cash if you want to buy something. 

Princess Cruise Line’s Princess Cays 

Where: Princess Cays is located on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. 

What’s There: Passengers are taken ashore by tender at this destination, which offers an included beach barbecue-style lunch, colorful cabanas for rent and an observation tower. Activities include snorkeling, stingray encounters, coastal cruises, and kayak tours. You also will find a spacious beach with loungers, craft markets and the opportunities for other water activities like banana boat rides, floats, seaboards, and aqua chairs. 

Cool Tips: Get off your ship early to get ashore to choose your preferred lounger (shade or sun). Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet, as the entry into the water from the shore can be a bit rocky.


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Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways

Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways
Emerald Waterways offers yoga classes as part of its EmeraldACTIVE program.

River cruises are known for offering a romantic vibe as you sail through Europe and other exotic destinations while eating plenty of fine food and savoring free-flowing wines. The chances for historical and cultural exploration also makes these voyages enriching experiences. 

River cruises are growing in popularity, too. And as cruise lines seek to entice a broader variety of travelers, they have begun offering new fitness options and other activities. 

Two lines are leading the way with their innovative menus of exciting and active choices for passengers. AmaWaterways features a Wellness Program and Emerald Waterways offers its EmeraldACTIVE choices. 

Let’s take a look to see how these two cruise wellness programs compare and why you might enjoy them. 

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AmaWaterways features a Wellness Host on its river ships.

Dedicated Staff 

An Activity Manager leads the way for Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program. This position serves as a kind of co-cruise director. The Activity Manager is a versatile performer who runs an entertainment and wellness-focused activities throughout your cruise. Emerald Waterways ditched the traditional piano player in the lounge in favor of a staffer who can offer a broader range of entertainment options. The line’s Activity Managers, for example, all are singers and dancers who give cabaret performances a couple of times during each cruise.  

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program features Wellness Hosts who design the fitness activities on and off the ship. The Wellness Hosts are professional trainers who lead classes, outings, and sessions for cruisers looking to keep up with their workouts or for those looking to try something new.  

 The fitness-focused river cruise programs offer a range of exercise classes during each sailing.
The fitness-focused river cruise programs offer a range of exercise classes during each sailing.

The Fitness Stuff 

Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program offers a selection of exercise classes throughout the cruise. You might get a morning stretch or yoga class. In the afternoon, you could see a Pilates or aqua aerobics class on the schedule. Also, depending on the itinerary, the Activity Manager might organize an interesting short hike or post-lunch walk in a port stop that offers a good opportunity for these activities.  

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program has a much wider range of workout options and more frequent classes. The Wellness Host offers five to seven activities each day that you can join, including spin classes (on AmaMagna), resistance training, yoga, Pilates, morning stretch, post-lunch walks on deck and jogging opportunities in port. 

The AmaWaterways Wellness Hosts are also available for personal training sessions.  

Both cruise lines carry a fleet of bicycles for use during your voyage.
Both cruise lines carry a fleet of bicycles for use during your voyage.

Facilities and Equipment 

Emerald Waterways’ ships have small gyms. These small rooms have a set of light dumbbells, a recumbent bike, and a rowing machine. The Activity Manager doesn’t hold classes in there. Instead, you do morning stretch, yoga and aqua aerobics at the indoor pool area. This is a wonderfully large space.  

Other wellness-focused activities like golf putting, soft petanque and Pilates are held on the Sun Deck. 

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AmaWaterways has treadmills on its ships, and space is a little bit larger, so some classes like abs and core-focused sessions can be held in the fitness centers. The line’s AmaMagna ship that sails on the Danube  River has a big gym as part of its Zen Wellness Studio. This facility has a studio space for classes, and spin classes are held on the deck space just outside.  

Fitness classes also are held on the Sun Deck on all AmaWaterways ships. 

Both Emerald Waterways and AmaWaterways carry bikes onboard. Passengers can join guided biking excursions or sign them out for personal use. 

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The EmeraldACTIVE program offers fun games like soft petanque and golf putting competitions, as well as dance classes and lounge entertainment.

Number of Ways to Play 

Emerald Waterways’ EmeraldACTIVE program takes it beyond fitness for a full-fledged lineup of fun stuff to keep cruisers busy and entertained throughout each day of their cruise. It’s about offering variety. 

Aside from the fitness classes, the Activity Manager leads games, contests, and entertainment. Soft petanque and golf putting contests take place on the Sun Deck. In the lounge, you can join afternoon dance classes or trivia sessions. Evenings bring the cabaret shows featuring popular music of the Rat Pack or Neil Diamond, for examples, or karaoke or disco nights with DJ music. 

AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program is firmly about exercise and wellness options. So, the activities and sessions we’ve already mentioned are the large bulk of what is available on the daily program. But the Wellness Hosts also may offer line dancing classes and could give a talk on wellness. They are always available to give advice or instruction to help you keep up with any new practices or workouts when you get back home after your cruise. 

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Activity Manager Harry Jordan sings during his cabaret show on Emerald Destiny.

Bottom Line 

The EmeraldACTIVE program is ideal for cruisers seeking a great mix of options to keep them entertained on their daily cruise program. It’s a good fit for travelers who are young and young at heart. The EmeraldACTIVE program is a welcome departure from the traditional river cruise offerings that leave you with little to do on the ship other than watch the scenery (which is great, of course), read a book or take a nap during your afternoons of sailing.  

Nighttime also comes alive in a different way with this program, as passengers get to play together and know each other in a more energetic way as led by the Activity Manager. The workouts are fairly gentle and accessible to all ages and abilities. 

The AmaWaterways’ Wellness Program is a fantastic choice for the growing batch of travelers who are becoming more intensely focused on their fitness and living a healthy lifestyle. The workouts can be quite challenging (there are variations offered for all abilities), and the program offers cruisers a chance to easily keep up with their regimen while enjoying their vacations 

The program also is a great entryway for the workout-curious to have access to the needed guidance and expertise that can jump-start their new lifestyle. The dining program also incorporates fresh healthy choices marked on the menus for all meals.


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The Best Cruise Vacation Tips for Senior Citizens

Image- Royal Caribbean International

There’s nothing like a few days out at sea. You can enjoy the smell and sound of the ocean, the sun, and a large range of activities that will give your mind a break from day-to-day life. As a senior, cruises are the perfect vacation for you to do as much or as little relaxing as you want. You can play games, watch performances, and socialize throughout each day — and when you get tired of that, you can simply lay out and enjoy the sun.

Cruises are popular among seniors, who often have more time to relax but are less willing to deal with the stress that comes with traveling. However, like any other traveling experience, it helps to know a few tips and tricks. By planning and preparing carefully for your time out at sea, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip fully, ready to take on anything the cruise throws your way

Choose Your Cruise Line Wisely

Not all cruises are made equal. Some cruises provide an experience that targets young adults who are looking to party and have a good time, and others are meant for families with young children. As a senior, you’re probably more likely to enjoy the cruises that are cultivated for a more sophisticated crowd. These often include finer dining options, classical performances, and offer a better chance for you to socialize with people who have similar interests to yours. 

As you select your cruise, you should also keep your destination close in mind. Some cruises go to Europe, while others hit exotic areas of South America. Upon reaching port, some cruise lines offer excursions to other nearby cities. While this can provide exciting opportunities to hit the fun towns you’ve been eager to visit, you should always be careful and follow the buddy system. Most cruises take guests to safe areas, but if you roam too far, you might get lost. 

Some cities are actually safer overall than they get credit for. While various cities, especially in Central and South America, have been dangerous in the past, this is often a product of temporary social or political turmoil. Cities like Cancun, Mexico, have been popular drug cartel areas in the past, using tourists looking for drugs as a source of revenue. However, Cancun is now far less dangerous than several cities in the U.S. where murder rates are high. 

Avoid the Crowds

Cruise ships carry hundreds to thousands of passengers on board, which means it can get a little crowded at certain points during the cruise. At the beginning of the cruise, passengers will usually do one of two things: They either flock to the dining room to get a taste of the menu, or they’ll begin touring the ship. As a senior, you probably don’t want to be surrounded by tons of people eagerly jostling one way or the other. Therefore, it’s best to avoid these busy times.

If you want to tour the ship as soon as you get in, you might want to start at the top and work your way down since most people do the opposite. Similarly, it may be best to avoid the dining room right as you board and give it a minute to clear out before seeing what tasty meals are on the menu. 

Socialize Safely

Many people who book cruises do so in order to socialize with others for several days. Many cruises offer open bars where people can meet and mingle, while others randomly sit people together at tables to dine. The various activities throughout the cruise ship also allow seniors to meet other people who have similar interests. This provides opportunities for people to meet and chat over the course of the cruise.

While much of this socializing is amiable and easygoing, some seniors may be looking for romance on these trips. With the help of modern dating apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble, meeting people is now easier than it’s ever been. However, sudden sexual encounters with people you’re unfamiliar with can pose health issues if you’re not being safe. These apps are a factor for the increase in STDs today. Therefore, it’s important to take precautionary measures to avoid contracting an STD during your cruise

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Further, risky behavior with strangers always leaves individuals vulnerable to potential sexual assault and injury — sometimes with fatal consequences. If an individual dies on a cruise, their family members may be left with some legal questions, and it may be difficult to recoup their loss in regards to pain and suffering

If this frightens you away from the concept of taking a cruise vacation, remember that cruise providers are generally absolutely invested in protecting their customers. Because cruise lines may be held liable for the sexual assault carried out by a passenger, they typically implement security measures to prevent it from occurring. Nevertheless, it still happens, and it’s unwise to let your guard down even while on vacation. 

Cruises are a relaxing and exhilarating vacation option for senior citizens looking to wind down on the ocean for a few days. They offer tons of exciting and interactive activities, as well as plenty of downtime for those looking to relax. If you’re getting ready for a cruise, consider these tips to make your time on the sea truly pleasant and unforgettable.


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