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Costa Cruises Restarts Cruises With New Program Beginning March 27

The cruise ships of Costa Cruises are ready to set sail again and offer guests holidays filled with leisure and relaxation, along with enhanced health and safety protocols.

The restart begins with the departure of the flagship Costa Smeralda, scheduled for March 27 with an unchanged itinerary, sailing guests to beautiful Italian locations, with 3- and 4-day mini-cruises or alternatively a 7-day cruise, calling at Savona, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, Naples, Messina and Cagliari.

From May 1, Costa Smeralda will return to sailing one-week cruises in the western Mediterranean, with visits to Italy (Savona, Civitavecchia and Palermo), France (Marseille) and Spain (Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca).

Costa Luminosa
Costa Luminosa, will also be back in service, departing from Trieste from May 2.

A second ship, Costa Luminosa, will also be back in service, departing from Trieste from May 2, and the following day from Bari, confirming its program of one-week cruises in Greece and Croatia.

Costa is working with national and local authorities of the countries included in the itineraries of its ships outside Italy to define the details of the restart of cruise operations, with enhanced health and safety measures through the implementation of the Costa Safety Protocol.

Costa Smeralda
Starting on May 1, Costa Smeralda will return to sailing one-week cruises in the western Mediterranean

The protocol contains operational measures related to all aspects of the cruise experience, both on board and ashore, which were implemented in the past months of cruise operations.  Such measures include limited capacity, swab tests for all guests and crew, temperature checks when disembarking and re-embarking the ship, protected shore excursions, physical distancing on board and at the cruise terminals, new ways of using on-board services, enhanced sanitation and medical services, and use of protective face masks when necessary.

Details of the itineraries, with related booking options, will soon be available on the website www.costacruises.eu and at travel agencies.

All other cruises scheduled until the end of May, and not included in the program updated today, will be cancelled. Costa is in the process of informing travel agents and customers affected by changes.

Silversea Cruises Hosts Exclusive Premiere of New World Cruise 2023

Silversea Cruises, recently hosted an exclusive virtual premiere for selected guests, presenting its new World Cruise 2023, entitled ‘South Side Story – All the World’s A Stage.’ The innovative premiere comprised a pre-produced show—which represents Silversea’s largest-ever creative production—hosted by Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, Silversea’s President’s Ambassador to the Venetian Society, and a Q&A session with Roberto Martinoli, President & CEO, and Barbara Muckermann, Chief Marketing Officer. The event replaced the usual onboard launch and marked the opening of an exclusive pre-sale to past and future world-cruising guests.

“We are continuously seeking innovative ways to nurture our strong relationships with our guests, Silversea’s extended family, as we await the moment in which we can be reunited aboard our ships once more,” says Roberto Martinoli. “As is the case on board our ships, we are committed to delivering special moments that exceed our guests’ expectations and our investment in our World Cruise 2023 premiere encapsulates this commitment. I am delighted to be able to share our pioneering new product with our valued guests in such an inspiring way and I hope it goes some way in conveying the incredible range of experiences that are in store.”

“Entitled ‘South Side Story,’ Silversea’s World Cruise 2023

Five weeks in the making, the immersive production was filmed over an entire week.

World Cruise 2023

Replicating the production of a cinematic film, Fernando’s triumphant show demanded a herculean effort from over 50 talented professionals, who worked around the clock. Five weeks in the making, the immersive production was filmed over an entire week. It included 18 different sets—individually selected over the course of three weeks from over 3,000 options—each of which comprised various props that were displayed in front of a changing 42m2 LED backdrop. Fernando—who is, by now, no stranger to the camera—travelled with seven suitcases to accommodate his array of costumes. The team recorded more than eight hours of footage—files totaling 800TB—before crafting a 27-minute narrative that was designed to transport guests into featured destinations.

“Entitled ‘South Side Story,’ Silversea’s World Cruise 2023
Behind the scenes of “Entitled ‘South Side Story,’ Silversea’s World Cruise 2023

“Entitled ‘South Side Story,’ Silversea’s World Cruise 2023 will take inspiration from the Southern Hemisphere’s most captivating cultures—their arts, their people, and the concept of performance as a means to engage with each destination,” says Jose Vuolo, Silversea’s Global Creative Director. “It was fitting, therefore, to leverage on the famous Shakespeare phrase, ‘All the World’s A Stage,’ which is an invitation to our guests to play their parts in this great story, while enjoying the spectacle of the world. What we have created is an unprecedented theatrical performance, combining a cinematographic style reminiscent of the 50s and 60s with the most advanced film technology available today—the virtual set. But this production would not have been possible without inspiration from passionate travellers, such as Fernando with his incredible stories, and from Steve McCurry who showed me how to look at the world differently, and whose photos enrich some of the show’s most evocative sets. To stage such a long journey, while at the same time conveying a calm, luxurious, relaxed voyage, was the real challenge.”

“Together with our close-knit world-cruising guests, I take great delight in celebrating the annual launch of our new World Cruises,” says Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, Silversea’s President’s Ambassador to the Venetian Society. “While we await the moment in which we can be reunited at sea once more, I am thrilled to have been involved with this innovative project to open an exclusive pre-sale on our pioneering World Cruise 2023, ‘South Side Story.’ With a focus on the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Hemisphere, our guests will enjoy new, immersive experiences as they befriend like-minded travellers aboard our recently refurbished Silver Shadow.”

Door-To-Door Comfort: 66 Destinations In 34 Countries Over 139 Nights

Silversea’s newly announced World Cruise 2023, ‘South Side Story,’ will depart Sydney on 9 January 2023, arriving in Fort Lauderdale on 28 May. Over 139 nights, Silver Shadow will cross five continents to unlock immersive experiences for guests in 66 destinations, taking in 34 countries. A total of 40 destinations have not been visited on Silversea’s recent World Cruise itineraries. Guests will enjoy 20 overnight calls in 17 cities, as well as 10 bespoke events—five of which will be exclusive to world-cruising guests.

For the first time in Silversea’s history, the World Cruise 2023 will include a door-to-door service for guests’ convenience, transporting them to Sydney in utmost comfort. Guests will journey from their homes to their departure airport in private executive transfers, benefit from private assistance to their gate/lounge, and gain access to designated airline lounges. They will then enjoy a superior flight experience from selected US and UK gateways to Sydney, Australia, experiencing a new level of comfort in Qantas Business Class with more space to relax and a dedicated cabin. World Cruise passengers will taste the freshest seasonal ingredients and enjoy Australian hospitality in-flight, presented by Qantas Airways in partnership with Silversea. Once in Sydney, travellers will then experience VIP arrival assistance, private executive transfers, and priority embarkation. Silver Shadow’s butlers will then be on-hand to assist guests in unpacking, should they wish.

Highlights of the World Cruise 2023 include:

  • An in-depth exploration of the natural history of Tasmania and New Zealand;
  • A deep discovery of Melanesia’s lesser-travelled coasts, including Papua New Guinea for the first time on a Silversea World Cruise;
  • An immersion into Southeast Asia’s rich, multi-layered culture and traditions, with overnights in iconic cities such as Hong Kong, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City;
  • Time spent in the Gulf of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, including opportunities to explore deeper inland;
  • A three-day exploration of Madagascar, with new calls in Mauritius and Réunion;
  • A seven-day discovery of the West Coast of Africa, starting with South Africa;
  • An immersive trip into the Amazon River for the first time on a World Cruise;
  • And new experiences in the Caribbean, with all-new calls in destinations like Ile Royale and Mayreau, among others.

“As well as devising a groundbreaking itinerary, we have introduced unprecedented features for the World Cruise 2023, such as our new door-to-door service, which will enhance the seamlessness of guests’ journeys,” says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Marketing Officer. “We look forward to revealing more details in due course, but for now, guests can get excited about the prospect of an in-depth tour of New Zealand, a foray into the lesser-travelled lands of Melanesia, and the first-ever exploration of the Amazon River on a World Cruise, among other remarkable experiences on our World Cruise 2023.”

This cruise will be available for general sales for Silversea’s World Cruise 2023 open on March 17. For more information visit https://www.silversea.com/.

 

Meet Rob, MSC Cruises New Humanoid, Robotic Bartender

MSC Starship Club
MSC Starship Club

MSC Cruises recently revelaed details of the immersive, futuristic MSC Starship Club featuring Rob, the first-ever humanoid, robotic bartender at sea. The MSC Starship Club will be exclusively available on board the line’s newest flagship, MSC Virtuosa, when she comes into service beginning April 16 this year.

Meet Rob

Meet Rob, the world’s first humanoid, robotic bartender at sea. 
Meet Rob, the world’s first humanoid, robotic bartender at sea.

The integrated bar and entertainment experience is inspired by MSC Cruises’ vision of the spaceship of the future. MSC Starliner One is enabled by state-of-the-art technologies to create a futuristic atmosphere with 3D holograms, an immersive digital art wall and a 12-seat infinity digital interactive table, giving guests the opportunity to explore space with their own personalized galactic tour. Rob will mix and serve his signature cocktails — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic — and countless personalized drinks, just like a human bartender would do, while engaging with and speaking to guests and using human-like expressions for a fully immersive bar experience. Rob’s skills and emotional responsiveness, combined with bartenders dressed as if straight out of a sci-fi movie and immersive technology, create a must-visit attraction for all ages at the MSC Starship Club.

Guests will use specifically designed vertical digital cockpits in the area to place their order. Rob will then get to work and use all of his customized robotic skills to prepare the cocktails — pouring spirits, juices and syrups; shaking, building or stirring the concoctions; and garnishing. Rob can not only prepare an impressive range of cocktails, but also speak eight languages (English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese and Japanese), according to the language chosen when the guest places an order. He also has a clear personality that evolves with the surrounding setting and atmosphere, using his LED face to convey emotion so guests can enjoy his performance while sipping their cocktails.

MSC Starship Club

MSC Starship Club
MSC Starship Club – immersive digital art wall

The status of the cocktail preparation will be displayed through digital monitors and a ticker-tape-style LED strip above the robotic island while guests are immersed in the space-themed experience. The cosmic cocktails are served in custom-designed futuristic glasses for guests to collect as lasting souvenirs of the MSC Starship Club experience. Cruisers will be able to return to the club multiple times over the course of their cruise, experiencing a new interaction with Rob each time.

MSC Cruises is constantly looking to the future to continuously innovate the guest experience and seek out new ways to employ the latest technology to create something unique and elevate the onboard offering. This latest innovation uses cutting-edge robotics and digital technologies to deliver a futuristic, immersive entertainment lounge, completely re-imagining the traditional bar experience to transport guests to another world.

The MSC Starship Club has been nearly six years in the making since the first original concept, and the Company has pushed boundaries with the engineering that has gone into making this a reality. During this time, MSC Cruises has worked with leading experts from companies specializing in robotics and automation, interior design as well as entertainment and digital experience solutions to create a custom designed entertainment venue with a humanoid robot as the star.

MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa is the line’s newest flagship and will come into service in April 2021. Each MSC Cruises ship is unique, and MSC Virtuosa in particular will feature new experiences for guests, with the introduction of Rob being just one of them. The ship will also be highly equipped with cutting-edge technologies and environmentally conscious capabilities.

After completing a few three, four and five-night cruises in the MediterraneanMSC Virtuosa will be deployed to Northern Europe in summer 2021 with a range of itineraries to the Norwegian fjords and Baltic capital cities.

For more information visit www.msccruises.com

Atlas Ocean Voyages Named Approved Supplier of Cruise Planners

World Explorer
Atlas Ocean Voyages - World Explorer

Atlas Ocean Voyages recently announced that the luxe-adventure expedition cruise brand has been named an approved supplier of Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based Travel Advisor franchise network and an American Express Travel Representative. Cruise Planners’ Travel Advisors can now recommend Atlas’ new and distinctive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences to clients seeking an all-inclusive, luxury adventure in remote, bucket-list destinations around the world. Launching in July 2021, Atlas’ first newly constructed, 196-guest, expedition ship, World Navigator, will bring travelers on transformative journeys to some of the world’s most coveted and off-the-beaten-path locales. For more information about Atlas Ocean Voyages, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

“We are delighted to add Atlas Ocean Voyages to Cruise Planners’ rich portfolio of cruise vacation options,” said Michelle Fee, CEO and Founder of Cruise Planners. “We know there is a pent-up consumer demand for small ship and luxury travel options and our partnership with Atlas Ocean Voyages is another example of how we seek out the most distinctive and compelling travel experiences for our clients. We are confident our travel advisors will continue to provide savvy travelers with the best possible vacation options and love the unique destinations such as Ukraine, Bucharest, Egypt and The Holy Lands itineraries – to name a few.”

Awe-Inspiring Cruising

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxe-adventure, expedition cruise brand designed for worldly and fun-seeking travelers to immerse in active and awe-inspiring experiences in less-trodden, bucket-list destinations. The 9,030 GRTs, World Navigator will foster a refined and convivial ambience for up to 196 guests and feature the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into her design.

All Inclusive All the Way

Atlas’ signature All Inclusive All the Way provides guests a more worry-free experience by including emergency medical evacuation insurance for all guests, as well as complimentary round-trip air travel, prepaid gratuities, premium wine and spirits and international beers, coffees and smoothies, Wi-Fi, LOccitane bath amenities, and regionally inspired gourmet dining. In every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use on board, en suite coffee, tea and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.

Plan With Confidence

Atlas’ Plan With Confidence flexible travel policy provides travelers a 100 percent refund of deposited funds up to 91 days prior to sailing. Plus, they can change their reservation as many times as they want, up to 15 days before their voyages’ sail date. They can even change their destination and sail with Atlas in another part of the world or choose to cancel at least 15 days or more prior to the departure date and be assured of a 100 percent future cruise credit.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com

Oceania Cruises’ 2023 World Cruise Sells Out In A Single Day

Marina in Miami
Marina in Miami

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, announced that the line’s 2023 Around the World in 180 Days voyage sold out within one day of opening for sale to the general public on January 27, 2021.

“The response to our epic 2023 around the world voyage clearly illustrates the enthusiasm that experienced travelers have for immersive and memorable travel experiences,” stated Bob Binder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Oceania Cruises. “Despite the challenges the world faces today, travelers are clearly bullish on the future and are embracing these new opportunities to travel the world and create lifelong memories.”

While world cruises typically attract legions of loyal repeat guests, Oceania Cruises’ 2023 world cruise saw more than one-third of all bookings come from first time, new-to-brand guests. This furthers a booking trend the brand has seen steadily emerging during the past year with some booking periods and promotions recording new-to-brand booking levels of close to 50%. Additionally, a full 20% of world cruise guests opted to extend their voyage up to a total of 218 days.

“The quick uptake from our loyal repeat guests and new first-time guests alike underscores the tremendous pent-up demand for immersive, destination-focused cruises and the strong allure of our acclaimed small-ship experience that features the finest cuisine at sea and an unmatched reputation for service from our warm and welcoming staff,” added Binder.

The line’s 2023 Around the World in 180 Days voyage is the most extensive and in-depth of any world cruise available. Calling on 96 ports in 33 countries across four continents, the voyage also includes three full days cruising in Antarctica and affords guests access to more than 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The line has seen exceptionally strong demand for its 2022 Europe and North America collection of voyages with bookings on longer, grand voyages that span multiple weeks or months going from strength to strength. To satisfy demand from consumers and travel advisors who are booking farther out, the line will be opening the full 2022-23 winter collection of itineraries in March and will open the spring, summer and fall 2023 Europe and North America voyages beginning in September.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

Royal Caribbean Extends Singapore Season For Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International has announced the extension of the Singapore season for Quantum of the Seas, one of Asia’s largest and most revolutionary ships. This follows the success of the safe cruises pilot programme, which launched in December 2020. With this extension, Royal Caribbean will deploy Quantum for an additional three months in Singapore between 22 March 2021 and 21 June 2021.

Singapore residents can continue to satisfy their feelings of wanderlust and enjoy fun-filled activities, next-generation entertainment and world-class dining on board one of Royal Caribbean’s most groundbreaking ships. Now available for bookings, these 2-, 3- and 4-night Ocean Getaways will continue to operate with the same set of comprehensive health and safety measures in place, such as mandatory COVID-19 testing, reduced sailing capacity and strict physical distancing measures.

Royal Caribbean International has announced the extension of the Singapore season
Royal Caribbean International has announced the extension of the Singapore season for Quantum of the Seas, one of Asia’s largest and most revolutionary ships.

“We are thrilled to announce the extension of the sailing season and look forward to having guests experience first-hand our signature cruise vacation that has wowed local cruisers already, with many booking repeat visits,” said Angie Stephen, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean International. “Our close partnership with the Singapore Government has played an instrumental role in the success of these pilot cruises, and we remain committed to safeguarding the health and safety of our guests and crew during these additional sailings.”

Holidaymakers of all ages can expect the same signature Royal Caribbean experience on their Ocean Getaway, while cruising with peace of mind. The global cruise operator has taken every effort to keep guests and crew aboard Quantum of the Seas safe through a comprehensive set of health and safety measures that adhere to the CruiseSafe Certification standards jointly developed by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and DNV GL[1]. For a full list of health and safety measures being enforced on board Quantum, visit www.royalpromise.com/singapore.

Quantum of the Seas
Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas.

Quantum of the Seas

The ground-breaking Quantum of the Seas features unmatched innovations in onboard attractions, such as RipCord by iFLY, the first skydiving experience at sea; North Star, an engineering marvel that transports guests more than 300 feet above the ocean; SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; as well as the Bionic Bar powered by Makr Shakr—home to the world’s first robotic bartenders. Guests will also get to enjoy a landscape of 18 restaurant concepts as vast and varied as dining in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, including specialty restaurants created with partner chefs such as Jamie Oliver.

Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas

Guests who book their sail-cation on Quantum of the Seas before 30 April 2021 can be assured of flexibility in their plans with Royal Caribbean’s Cruise with Confidence program, which allows for changes and cancellations up to 48 hours before the cruise begins. For even greater peace of mind, included with the cruise are COVID-19 protections which include a 100% credit towards a future cruise should a guest or any member of their travel party test positive for COVID-19 during the three weeks prior to their booked cruise; or a full refund if a guest, or any member of their travel party, tests positive during their voyage. Royal Caribbean will continue to cover COVID-19 related costs up to $25,000 SGD per person in the travel party for onboard medical costs, any required quarantine, and travel home.

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

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Cunard Launches Queen Mary 2 “Let Them All Talk” Sweepstakes

Queen Mary 2-"Let Them All Talk" Sweepstakes now live. Visit www.cunardmoviesweeps.com

 In tandem with the recently released HBO Max film, “Let Them All Talk,” primarily set on Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2, Cunard has kicked off a sweepstakes offering a winner and their guest a chance to sail on a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing from New York to Southampton. Mirroring the film, the lucky recipients will have the chance to enjoy the same sumptuous Queens Grill suite that was featured in the film.

Directed by the award-winning Steven Soderbergh, and starring Academy Award® winner Meryl Streep, Academy Award® winner Dianne Wiest, and Emmy® winner Candice Bergen, the story unfolds as Streep’s character sails to the UK in the ship’s luxurious Queens Grill accommodation, frequently featured in the movie.

Since Queen Mary 2’s 2004 debut, she has been a global star: the scene for a Royal Naming Ceremony, high profile concerts and events, and a world film premiere, to name just a few. Now, Cunard’s flagship takes center stage like never before: as the glamorous setting for the HBO Max feature film, “Let Them All Talk,” sailing the film’s characters in style amidst the many luxurious surroundings and inviting spaces, as they voyage from New York to England.

To enter the Queen Mary 2-“Let Them All Talk” sweepstakes visit www.cunardmoviesweeps.com. The sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./ D.C., from Monday, February 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021*. To view the complete sweepstakes rules, visit: www.cunardmoviesweeps.com/rules.

“Let Them All Talk” is now streaming on HBO Max. For North America guests, please sign up for HBO Max to access the feature film. Stay tuned for more details on the international distribution of this feature film.

To learn more about a Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing, or a Cunard voyage, contact your Travel Advisor, call 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com.

Seabourn Launches Two Ultimate 2023 Trips

Seabourn is inviting travelers to plan for travel in 2023 on the brand’s World Cruise and Grand Voyage. The 140-day 2023 World Cruise: Extraordinary Discoveries on Seabourn Sojourn, and 79-day 2023 Grand Voyage: Grand Americas, Amazon & Antarctica aboard Seabourn Quest, offer two distinct voyages set to visit multiple continents and ports while offering exclusive opportunities to experience natural wonders and diverse cultures. The voyages will be open for sale tomorrow, February 12, and the full itinerary details will be available on Seabourn’s website.

The itineraries of both sailings were carefully curated by Seabourn’s Global Itinerary Planning and Product Development team, who designed each voyage with “differentiation” and unique experiences in mind.

“Our team designed the 2023 World Cruise and 2023 Grand Voyage to be exploratory in nature, focused on alluring destinations and experiences that most guests are likely not familiar with but will love being able to discover,” said Tim Littley, senior director of Global Itinerary Planning and Product Development for Seabourn.

“Given these uncertain times, our guests have asked Seabourn to offer travel options further into the future. With the 2023 World Cruise and Grand Voyage, we open options well into 2023 for future planning,” said Josh Leibowitz, president of Seabourn. “Imagine sailing from Miami, heading south and then west around the world and finishing the voyage in Barcelona on Seabourn’s world cruise or departing round-trip Miami and circumnavigating South America including iconic Antarctica.”

Seabourn Launches Two Ultimate 2023 Trips | 9

2023 World Cruise: Extraordinary Discoveries

The 2023 World Cruise: Extraordinary Discoveries will see Seabourn Sojourn cross two great oceans – Pacific and Indian – as well as traverse the Atlantic Ocean along the coast of Africa, stopping at renowned ports, including Papeete, SydneyMelbournePerth, Mombasa, Cape TownDurbanDakarCasablanca and more. The ship will also visit a number of small, hidden gems in the South PacificEaster IslandPapua New GuineaWestern AustraliaSeychellesCape VerdeWest Africa and more. Departing on January 6, 2023the 140-day voyage from Miami to Barcelona will visit a total of 61 destinations and 32 countries. The sailing will include overnights in 10 cities and extended stays late into the evening in 16 ports, offering more time in port for guests to explore these fascinating destinations. Seabourn will also offer segments of the World Cruise ranging from 21 to 81 days in length for travelers who can’t sail for the full duration of the voyage.

2023 Grand Voyage: Grand Americas, Amazon & Antarctica

There will be plenty for guests to look forward to on the 2023 Grand Voyage as Seabourn Quest sails to Central America, skims the coast of South America, and sails to AntarcticaSouth Georgia and the Falkland Islands, before making its way back smoothly to the Amazon and through the CaribbeanDeparting on January 6, 2023, the 79-day voyage round-trip from Miami will visit a total of 37 destinations and 15 countries, with five overnight stays and extended stays late into the evening in eight destinations. Seabourn will also offer the Grand Voyage in shorter segments ranging from 21 to 58 days, should guests not have the flexibility to make the full two-month voyage.

Both voyages will offer the line’s popular Ventures by Seabourn” program, featuring expert expedition teams leading intensive explorations of extraordinary destinations on optional kayaking, Zodiac, snorkeling and trekking tours. The Grand Voyage will include a five-day “Antarctica Experience,” where Zodiac cruising and landings will be included, while kayaking adventures will be optional.

There will also be exclusive special events planned over the course of each voyage, as well as local entertainment, regional cuisines, and palate-pleasing wines for guests to savor as they sail around the globe. Guests will also have opportunities to take their travels further with assorted picks from the line’s optional Seabourn Journeys collection, offering escorted pre-, post- and mid-voyage experiences to explore iconic landmarks that are best experienced beyond a scheduled port call.

Booking Incentives

Guests who book either the full 140-day 2023 World Cruise or the full 79-day 2023 Grand Voyage will receive a value-packed menu of complimentary benefits and amenities. Book by May 31, 2022 to receive the following:

  • Round-trip air
  • Shipboard Credit:
    • Ocean View & Veranda Suites receive up to $4,000USD Shipboard Credit per Suite (up to $2,000USD Shipboard Credit per guest). Amount is based on the voyage.
    • Penthouse & Premium Suites receive up to $6,000USD Shipboard Credit per Suite (up to $3,000USD Shipboard Credit per guest). Amount is based on the voyage.
  • Unlimited Internet Package
  • Private car transfers door-to-door between home and airport
  • Personal Valet® luggage shipping service between home and ship
  • Unlimited laundry, dry cleaning and pressing on board
  • Visa package (World Cruise only for U.S. and Canadian citizens only)
  • Gala Bon Voyage dinner & overnight hotel stay prior to departure in Miami
  • Exclusive Events, including a President’s Event
  • Special pillow gifts
  • 50 percent reduced deposit (US/CAD/AUS only)
  • 3 percent Early Bonus Savings when paid in full by May 31, 2022
  • 5 percent Repeat World Cruise Discount when booking the full 140-day World Cruise or the full 79-day Grand Voyage

Guests will receive an additional 6 percent savings off the cruise-only fare if they book either the entire 140-day World Cruise or the full 79-day Grand Voyage and pay in full by April 15, 2021. Certain restrictions apply. For guests who cannot sail on the entire 140-day World Cruise voyage or 79-day Grand Voyage, shorter segments are available, along with a selection of benefits and amenities. Full terms and conditions are available on Seabourn’s website.

Why Seabourn?

Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel with intimate ships offering key elements that set the line apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites that are all oceanfront; superb dining in a choice of venues; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times; award-winning service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. The ships travel the globe to many of the world’s most desirable destinations including marquee cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lesser-known ports and hideaways. The line is also the official cruise partner of UNESCO World Heritage.

For reservations or more details, please contact a professional travel advisor; call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Unveil Northeast Cruises in 2022-23

Royal Caribbean Cruises Unveils Northeast Cruises in 2022-23
AN, Anthem of the Seas, NYC, New York skyline, aerial, Statue of Liberty, night, evening,

Royal Caribbean International has unveiled a new lineup of 2022-2023 adventures on three award-winning ships – Adventure, Anthem and Voyager of the Seas – cruising from the Big Apple and Boston. Vacationers can set sail into vacation mode on cruises headed north or south for 4 to 11 nights. Whether exploring the island jewels of the southern Caribbean, relishing the famed beaches of Bermuda and The Bahamas, taking a day for thrill and chill at Royal Caribbean’s top-rated private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, or catching the golden hues of fall foliage in New England and the Great White North, guests have their choice of Royal Caribbean’s best season in the Northeast yet.

The new sailings from the Northeast departing from May 2022 to April 2023 are now open for sale. Highlights of the upcoming warm-weather and cooler escapes include:

Adventure of the Seas, packed with onboard thrills like The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides and a variety of dining options including Izumi, will return to Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey to sail a combination of itineraries to Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada. City-dwellers can opt to recharge in the sun with 5-night Bermuda cruises to enjoy the island’s colorful culture, natural beauty and an evening out in the historic city of Kings Wharf during overnight stays. New for summer 2022, Adventure’s 9-night Eastern Caribbean sailings will bring within reach highly sought-after islands, including St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, Bermuda and Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Labadee, in Haiti. Vacationers looking to venture north for a brisk getaway have the option of 4- and 9-night cruises heading up the east coast to visit memorable ports of call Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; Boston; Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine.

New York will also see the return of longtime favorite Anthem of the Seas when it arrives from Southampton, England in October 2022. Known for its groundbreaking attractions, from RipCord by iFly skydiving to the North Star observation capsule, next-generation entertainment and world-class dining, Anthem will set out on 7-night cruises to The Bahamas that include full days in Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay. From the tallest waterslide in North America and a signature helium balloon ride that offers the highest vantage point in The Bahamas, to The Bahamas’ first floating cabanas at the island’s exclusive Coco Beach Club, every kind of traveler can find their perfect dose of thrill and chill on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Guests looking for extended time in the tropics can opt for one of Anthem’s 11-night southern Caribbean sailings to iconic isles such as San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John’s, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; and Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis.

Rounding out the season, Voyager of the Seas will make her Boston debut touting Royal Caribbean favorites, including Battle for Planet Z laser tag and The Perfect Storm waterslides duo that get hearts pumping with three stories of twists and turns. The thrilling combination of experiences will make for unforgettable family vacations on picturesque cruises showcasing the rugged beauty and rich history of the North Atlantic. In the midst of prime leaf peeping season, the 7-night sailings to Canada will bring guests to charming coastal towns, including Saint John, Halifax, as well as Bar Harbor and Portland. Vacationers looking for an escape to warm waters before winter can chart course for San Juan on a 7-night cruise with stops in the Dominican Republic and St. Thomas as well as a day of memory-making at Perfect Day at CocoCayVoyager will arrive to the U.S. to start her season in Boston following a 14-night Arctic Crossing from Copenhagen, Denmark, which will bring guests to the wild landscapes of Iceland and Greenland along the way.

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

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Government of Canada Announces One-Year Ban On Cruises

Suspends Vaccine Mandates
Government of Canada Announces One-Year Ban On Cruises

Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, announced two new Interim Orders, which prohibit pleasure craft in Canadian Arctic waters and cruise vessels in all Canadian waters until February 28, 2022. This means:

  • Adventure-seeking pleasure craft are still prohibited from entering Arctic waters.
  • Passenger vessels carrying more than 12 people are still prohibited from entering Arctic coastal waters, including Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, and the Labrador Coast.
  • Cruise vessels carrying more than 100 people are still prohibited from operating in Canadian waters.

Pleasure craft used by local Arctic residents will not be affected by these measures.

With these prohibitions in place, public health authorities will be able to continue focusing on the most pressing issues, including the vaccine rollout and new COVID-19 variants.

To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Government of Canada continues to advise Canadian citizens and permanent residents to avoid all travel on cruise ships outside Canada until further notice.

“As Canadians continue to do their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19, our government continues to work hard to ensure Canada’s transportation system remains safe. Temporary prohibitions to cruise vessels and pleasure craft are essential to continue to protect the most vulnerable among our communities and avoid overwhelming our health care systems. This is the right and responsible thing to do.” – The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport

Essential passenger vessels, such as ferries and water taxis, should continue to follow local public health guidance and protocols, and follow mitigation measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent future outbreaks. These could include: reducing the number of passengers, ensuring physical distancing, the wearing of masks, and enhanced cleaning and hygiene measures.

Cruise vessels in Canadian waters pose a risk to our health care systems. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate the situation and make changes as necessary to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians. Should the COVID-19 pandemic sufficiently improve to allow the resumption of these activities, the Minister of Transport has the ability to rescind the Interim Orders.

SOURCE Transport Canada