Carnival Cruise Line has announced additional cruise cancellations, including extending its pause in all operations in the U.S. through March 31, 2021, as well as select ships and homeport operations related to itineraries and dry dock work.
Booked guests and travel agents are being notified directly of the cancellations and their options for a generous future cruise credit and onboard credit package, or a full refund.
In summary, the cancellations include:
All embarkations from U.S. homeports through March 31, 2021
Carnival Miracle from San Diego and San Francisco through September 16, 2021 (which includes many 10-day and longer itineraries not allowed under the current CDC guidelines)
Carnival Liberty from Port Canaveral from September 17-October 18, 2021 (to accommodate rescheduled dry dock work)
Carnival Spirit’s 15-day cruise from Singapore to Brisbane on June 12, 2021 (consistent with the current limitations on international travel in place in Australia).
“We are sorry to disappoint our guests, as we can see from our booking activity that there is clearly a pent-up demand for cruising on Carnival. We appreciate their patience and support as we continue to work on our plans to resume operations in 2021 with a gradual, phased in approach,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visitCarnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.
Viking's first expedition ship, the Viking Octantis, was "floated out" on December 22, 2020. The 378-guest vessel is scheduled to debut in summer 2022 and will sail voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes. For more information, visit www.viking.com.
Viking® recently announced its first expedition ship – the 378-guest Viking Octantis®– was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time that the new ship touches water. Scheduled to debut in early 2022, Viking Octantis will spend her maiden season sailing voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes. A second, identical expedition ship, Viking Polaris®, is set to debut in summer 2022 and will sail journeys to Antarctica and the Arctic. Viking has also developed a series of short videos about the new expedition voyages, ship design and prestigious scientific partnerships, which can be found on its website here
Viking’s first expedition ship, the Viking Octantis, was “floated out” on December 22, 2020. The 378-guest vessel is scheduled to debut in summer 2022 and will sail voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes.
“Working with Fincantieri over the last eight years, we have built the world’s most beautiful ocean ships. We are pleased to continue our partnership with Fincantieri’s VARD and celebrate this important milestone in the construction of our first expedition vessel,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “In creating ‘the thinking person’s expedition,’ we are perfecting polar expedition cruising, and we will usher in a new era of comfortable exploration in the heart of North America. Viking Octantis and her sister ship, Viking Polaris, will allow our guests to explore further – to the ends of the earth as well as closer to home. I would like to thank our partners at VARD and everyone working at the yard for the hard work and dedication on the building of Viking Octantis; we look forward to welcoming her to our fleet in early 2022.”
The float out is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out ceremony of Viking Octantis took place today, December 22; she was then moved to a nearby outfitting dock for further construction and interior build-out. After final outfitting, Viking Octantis will be delivered at Fincantieri’s VARD shipyard in Søviknes, class=”xn-location”>Norway.
Esteemed explorers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft will be honored as ceremonial godmothers to Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, respectively. Arnesen, a native Norwegian, became the first woman in the world to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in 1994. Bancroft is the first woman to successfully ski to both poles. Arnesen and Bancroft also became the first women to ski across Antarctica in 2001. Together they co-founded Bancroft Arnesen Explore / Access Water, an initiative that aims to engage and empower more than 60 million minds to create a sustainable tomorrow.
Viking’s first expedition ship, the Viking Octantis, was “floated out” on December 22, 2020. The 378-guest vessel is scheduled to debut in summer 2022 and will sail voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes.
Viking Expedition Ships
The new Polar Class 6 Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. Designed by the same experienced nautical architects and engineers that designed Viking ocean ships, the ships are optimally sized and built for expeditions – small enough to navigate remote polar regions and the St. Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas. The ships will feature public spaces that are familiar to Viking’s ocean cruise guests but that have been reimagined for expeditions, as well as new public spaces created specifically for expeditions. Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilizers will allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey; ice-strengthened Polar Class 6 hulls will provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers will significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary. Viking’s expedition ships will feature modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Highlights include:
The Hangar (Credit: Viking)
The Hangar
An industry first, The Hangar brings true comfort to expedition cruising. This enclosed, in-ship marina permits the launch of small excursion craft through the ship’s multiple shell doors. The Hangar’s most innovative feature is an 85 ft. slipway that allows guests to embark on RIBs from a flat, stable surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves. There is also a FerryBox, a set of instruments continuously collecting and displaying data on water quality, oxygen content, plankton composition and more.
Rendering of Zodiacs and Sub stored within the Hangar on-board the Viking Expedition ships Polaris and Octantis (Credit: Viking)
The Laboratory
Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, while hosting guests, will also be working research vessels with an onboard team of Viking Resident Scientists working on a variety of studies. Developed in consultation with Cambridge University and Viking’s other academic partners, The Laboratory, at 430 sq. ft., is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities, a sample processing area, fume cupboard, freezer and cool storage, comprehensive microscope optics and extensive bench space for analysis-specific instruments. Guests will have supervised access to The Laboratory, which is located in a glass-enclosed mezzanine above The Hangar, to learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research, an experience unique to Viking.
Rendering of the Viking Expedition Ship in Antarctica. (Credit: Viking)
Expedition Equipment
Viking will offer a variety of ways for guests to experience their destination, according to their interests and activity level, at no extra charge. With a robust program of complimentary experiences, expedition equipment available for guests on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will include a fleet of military pro zodiacs designed for professional use in the harshest of environments; a fleet of two-seater Arctic-tested kayaks; and two 12-seater convertible RIBs.
Rendering of the Deck 2 Aft area, Finse Terrace and Theater Auditorium on-board the Viking Expedition ship (Credit: Viking)
The Aula & Finse Terrace
Viking has created the world’s most advanced venue for learning at sea with The Aula, a stunning panoramic auditorium at the stern. Inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, The Aula will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views.
Adjacent to The Aula through sliding glass walls is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area with comfortable couches and warming lava rock “firepits” – perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings. Together the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor al fresco experience for guests to be immersed in nature.
Rendering of the Viking Expedition ship: Penthouse Junior Suite – Polar Option (Credit: Viking)
Nordic Balcony
A first for polar expedition cruise vessels, all staterooms on board Viking Octantis and Viking Polarisfeature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform. Harnessing the Norwegian reverence for light and to create the optimal wildlife observatory at sea, the Nordic Balcony’s floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass at the very edge of the ship lets guests take the views in, while keeping the elements out.
Should guests wish to feel even closer to nature, the top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout, with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft to 1,223 sq. ft: Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony, Nordic Penthouse, Nordic Junior Suite, Explorer Suite and Owner’s Suite. All staterooms feature a Nordic Balcony, as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror.
Every stateroom is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.
Rendering of Explorer Suite Living Room on-board the Viking Expedition ships Polaris and Octantis (Credit: Viking)
Expedition Ship Suites
Nordic Junior Suites (322 sq. ft.) and Explorer Suites (580 sq. ft) on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris rival those on Viking’s fleet of ocean ships, with abundant wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome champagne, a fully-stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, priority restaurant reservations and more.
Explorer Suites feature two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner’s Suite, which at 1,223 sq. ft, is twice the size of the Explorer Suites. With the most exclusive accommodations and amenities on board, it features two separate rooms – a living room with six-seat dining table and a bedroom – as well as a 792 sq. ft. private garden with a traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) and outdoor dining table.
Rendering of the Aquavit Terrace and Infinity Pool on-board the Viking Expedition ship (Credit: Viking)
Aquavit Terrace & Pools
Located at the stern and featuring a retractable glass dome, this indoor-outdoor heated sanctuary will allow guests to be surrounded by their destination as they swim and lounge in three different temperature-controlled pools, including an “inside-out” swimming experience.
The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center
In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Nordic Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind – with a thermal suite that features a Sauna, Snow Grotto and chaise lounges, as well as a warm hydrotherapy pool and badestamp (hot tub), surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A state-of-the-art Fitness Center will also provide the latest equipment and workout gear.
Rendering of the Explorer’s Lounge on-board the Viking Octantis (Credit: Viking)
Viking’s expedition ships will offer an array of dining options that build on the successful venues from Viking’s ocean ships, but which have been redesigned for expeditions. The Restaurant will offer fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Café will be a new “market” concept that offers live cooking, an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors.
The ships will also included Mamsen’s, named for “Mamsen,” the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; Manfredi’s offers the best of Italian cuisine; and 24-hour room service will be complimentary for all guests.
Rendering of a Viking Expeditions RIB – Rigid Inflatable Boat supplied by Boomeranger (Credit: Viking)
Enrichment Programs
Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s expedition.” As part of that commitment to destination-focused learning, Viking’s exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology will match leading researchers and educators with each expedition.
The onboard expedition program is designed to prepare guests for their onshore experiences, with more than 25 experts accompanying each journey – the Viking Expedition Team (expedition leader and staff, photographer and submarine pilots) and Viking Resident Scientists (biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists, oceanographers, ornithologists, polar experts and researchers).
On board, guests will enjoy daily briefings and world-class lectures about their destination – and engage with working scientists from renowned academic institutions in The Laboratory or participate directly in citizen science programs. On shore, guests can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities during landings – such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns; accompanying scientists to collect samples; or taking their cameras ashore alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes.
Viking Inclusiveness
Every Viking Expeditions cruise fare includes a Nordic Balcony stateroom or suite, virtually all shore excursions, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Just as with Viking’s ocean cruises, guests will also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; lectures; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to The Nordic Spa; and 24-hour room service.
As part of their fare, Viking Expeditions guests will also receive charter flights for hard-to-reach locales and the use of Viking Expedition Gear specialty equipment for land and sea excursions. On polar itineraries, guests also receive their own Viking Expedition Kit, which includes everything needed to be comfortable – as well as a Viking Expeditions Jacket to keep.
For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.
MSC Cruises recently announced the extension to the pause of operations for MSC Magnifica in connection with the additional lockdown measures that the Greek government have recently put in place ashore to manage the pandemic and that will now likely extend beyond the current holiday period. As part of these measures, currently through January 6 passenger ships are only able to make technical calls in Greek ports.
MSC Cruises has to postponed the resumption of operations for MSC Magnifica until February 14, 2021
Due to the uncertainty at this stage as to whether these ports will fully re-open on January 7 or if these measures will be extended further, as is very likely to be the case, the Company has taken the decision to postpone the resumption of operations for MSC Magnifica until February 14, 2021, for the benefit of its guests.
Please stay in the Loop with Our Free Cruise Newsletter: Uncover the Latest News and Exclusive Deals: Sign Up
Viking Cruises began more than 20 years ago (1997) as a river cruise line. Today, you know it as one of the fastest-growing and most-diverse cruise companies in the world, offering river cruises and ocean voyages all over the globe. Plus, Viking will soon be launching (in 2022) its first vessels – Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris — in a planned fleet of expedition ships.
Viking Cruises has been successful in creating a consistently excellent cruise value, with an emphasis on comfortable and elegant ships, outstanding service and fun and interesting itineraries that highlight a region’s culture and history.
To help you pick your Viking Cruises trip, we offer this guide filled with our insider tips and info to help you enjoy a fabulous cruise with Viking no matter what type of sailing you choose.
Viking Longship Idun on the Main River in front of Johannisburg Palace, Aschaffenburg, Germany
Viking River Cruises
Viking made its name as a leader in river cruising. The cruise features ships with a sleek Scandinavian design, and these vessels carry curious travelers along the great rivers in Russia, Ukraine, Europe, Egypt and Asia.
Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger ship, also is scheduled to launch on the Mighty Mississippi River in August 2022.
Viking cruises on nearly all the major rivers throughout the world, from the great inland waterways of Europe to the exotic and beautiful rivers in Asia, as well as the majestic Nile on its Egypt voyages.
The grand voyages along these rivers take you the full length of the Rhine and Danube and also include the Main River (the longest tributary of the Rhine). These are the busiest rivers for cruising, with hundreds of ships moving up and down them weekly during the season, which typically runs from April to December, closing out with the highly popular Christmas Markets voyages.
Viking also sails with ships specifically designed for the Elbe River (between Berlin and Prague), the Nile River in Egypt, the Douro River in Portugal, the Seine in France, the Dnieper in Ukraine, the Volga in Russia and the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia. And, as mentioned, Viking Mississippi is coming soon to the United States.
All of Viking’s voyages focus on a theme to highlight the best of a region. This means there are so many kinds of cruises in their portfolio that might appeal to you. In France for example, you could choose the “Paris and the Heart of Normandy” roundtrip sailing from Paris that lasts eight days and explores the gardens and settings that inspired Monet, as well as the battlefields at Normandy and the art, wines, food, culture and other culturally significant points of interest along the Seine.
On the line’s “European Sojourn,” you’ll cruise in the canals of Amsterdam and alongside the stunning castles of the Rhine River as you visit Germany, Vienna, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. That’s eight countries and countless memories on a 23-day epic voyage.
Viking Longships are easily recognizable in the Danube and Rhine Rivers, easing through the waterways or alongside the banks in some of the most charming and historic villages and cities throughout Europe, delivering avid travelers exciting new experiences each day.
The longships carry up to 190 passengers in 95 fairly spacious staterooms, a majority featuring balconies (either full verandas or French balconies). The ships also offer a pair of two-room, 445-square-foot Explorers Suites at the aft of the ships and six 275-square-foot, two-room Veranda Suites.
Cabins also include 40-inch flat screen TVs with a range of mon-demand movies and a selection of cable news and entertainment channels.
The ships offer a lot of outdoor space so that travelers can enjoy the views while sailing. These ships have four passenger decks, with cabins and public spaces on three interior decks. The top Sun Deck offers panoramic views, sun loungers, a walking track, putting green, herb garden and the ship’s wheelhouse, where the captain operates the vessel.
Deck 3 includes a main atrium area with the lobby and guest services desk and a small library area with a selection of books, puzzles and games. Also, this is the level for the Observation Lounge – which serves as the ship’s bar and entertainment area — and the innovative Aquavit Buffet and Aquavit Terrace dining spot, which sits outside at the bow after you pass through the lounge and is an ideal place for alfresco breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktails.
The main dining room offers open seating and three meals a day, including buffet stations for breakfast and lunch.
Viking’s river ships don’t have fitness centers, spas or carry bikes onboard. (They do offer biking excursions, and will help you find bike rentals if you want to pedal around on your own.)
Viking’s specialized ships that sail in other regions such as Asia and Egypt offer mostly the same features but perhaps in a scaled-down space depending on the location.
Passengers enjoy a broad range of cultural programming and fun entertainment. Daily activities onboard and ashore include an included shore excursion in every port. This might be a tour of a fascinating city such as Vienna or Budapest or a look around the charming village of windmills, Kinderdijk, in the Netherlands.
Viking also offers a variety of optional excursions that come with a fee. The excursion included in your cruise fare is typically an overview-type tour of the city, town or village that you are visiting for the day. The optional for-fee excursions might be a trip to a popular museum or palace or an evening concert in Vienna, for examples.
You can also expect to enjoy onboard cultural or history talks or music performances in the ship’s Observation Lounge during your voyage. The cruise manager will also design a program of entertainment like dance parties or trivia contests to that you can interact and have fun with your new friends during your cruise.
All meals are included on the ship, and you can enjoy selected beer and wines, as well as sodas, with your lunch and dinner. You will pay for specialty drinks and cocktails as well as drinks ordered outside of those meal times.
The special touches you get on a Viking river cruise make it unique and memorable. The staff goes out of the way to offer friendly and attentive service. Viking makes every effort to accommodate special requests, whether it comes to food or activities. We made a casual reference to being excited to try the beers of Germany on our Rhine River cruise with Viking, and the cruise manager quickly arranged a special night-time group tour of Kolsch brewhouses in Cologne for anyone interested in joining.
He led our small group around for a festive night sampling the beer that made Cologne famous.
Viking is the world leader in river cruising, setting the standard for modern river cruising. It has the largest fleet, so you can find a special cruise almost anywhere on Viking. Imagine your delight in seeing ancient castles and lush vineyards along the banks of the rivers as you sail through Europe.
The ships also feature large and comfortable cabins and a diverse and engaging program of enrichment and entertainment.
Nightly, the Observation Lounge is filled with passengers engaged in lively conversation or hitting the dance floor.
You can choose cruises in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Northern Europe, Asia, Australia and even an epic sailing on a longer “Grand Voyage” or Viking’s “World Cruise.”
Viking Star’s Atrium
The Ships
As mentioned, each Viking Ocean cruise ship carries up to 930 passengers and have only slight differences in the design of the indoor spaces. Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Star, Viking Sun, Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter have all been launched since 2015 for the fast-growing Viking Ocean brand.
Viking Venus (2021) and Viking Mars (2022) are also on the way.
Comfort and smart design are the hallmarks of the ships, which offer passengers plenty of space to move around. No crowds onboard these vessels that feature more than 50 cubic feet of space per passenger. Compare that with a number around 30 on the mega cruise ships.
These ships offer a wide variety of staterooms, and they all have balconies. You can choose a Veranda Stateroom (from 270 square feet to 338 square feet), or get a range of extra perks and amenities in the larger Explorer Suites (from 757 square feet to 1,163 square feet). The Penthouse Junior Suite (405 square feet) and massive Owner’s Suite (1,448 square feet) also are options.
Public spaces include the line’s signature Living Room, which a wonderfully inviting gathering area in the center of the ship for live music, trivia, dancing, cocktails or just relaxing to read a book. The smartly designed ship features power outlets in these spaces.
The ships also offer a large fitness center and the LivNordic Spa (a complimentary amenity with thalassotherapy pool hot tub, steam rooms, snow grotto and sauna.) The ships also feature a salon for treatments and shops selling luxury clothes, jewelry and mementos from your cruise.
Deck 7 features a main pool in a serene area that is an oasis in any weather because of a retractable roof. You’ll also find the pool grill and bar here, and the adjacent Winter Garden and lanai areas are additional delightfully designed spaces for relaxing and watching the world go by as you sail. The Winter Garden is also home of the daily afternoon tea sessions accompanied by live music performances.
At the back of the ships on Deck 7 is the blissful Infinity Pool and hot tub, complete with loungers and calming views of the ship’s wake. The Explorers Lounge at the bow of the ship is a gathering spot for afternoon peace and quiet or evening convivial entertainment and cocktails. This lounge spans Decks 7 and 8, the spaces are filled with bookshelves holding reading materials and art pieces highlighting the heritage of adventurous travel. You’ll find it hard to leave once you plop down into one of the comfy couches or chairs adorned with soft blankets and pillows.
The World Café is the buffet area on the ships, and it always offers a variety of fresh seafood, pastas, pizza, sushi and desserts, breads and regional cuisine. The Pool Grill is a fast-casual option, and the burger menu is loaded with all sorts of creative options.
Mamsen’s serves Norwegian comfort foods. The eatery is located in the Explorers’ Lounge and named for the mother of Viking Cruise Line founder Torstein Hagen. You’ll find it hard to stay away. Drop by for a snack of open-faced sandwiches, specialty cakes and pastries or a late-night snack of cured meats and pea soup. The signature favorites include the delicious heart-shaped waffles topped with jam or brown goat cheese.
Viking cruiser’s enjoy the dining experience at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant aboard Viking’s ocean ships.
Manfredi’s is the Italian restaurant, and the Chef’s Table venue offers a rotating multi-course menu highlighting special cuisine from around the globe — such as Mexican, Asian, French and others — and paired with the recommended wines.
Live music and events such as Armanac and chocolate tastings happen in Torshavn, a night club with a dimly lit setting and ultra-hip vibe. The Theater offers enrichment talks, nightly shows and movie nights.
Viking Ocean cruise fares include all meals, and beer and wine with your lunches and dinners.
You get unlimited use of the LivNordic Spa, and Viking offers one included shore excursion in each port (typically a bus tour or walking tour of the destination.)
WiFi is also complimentary.
Tip: Get the Viking Silver Spirits drink package if you like to enjoy a drink or three each day of your cruise. It’s just $19.95 per person per day, an extremely affordable price when compared to other packages in the cruise industry.
Viking Ocean cruises offer creative itineraries to lesser-visited ports and destinations. The 930-passenger ships are welcomed into numerous interesting ports in places like Norway, Estonia and Sweden as well as charming islands of the Caribbean, such as Antigua, Tortola, or on adventurous journeys to the Falkland Islands and the fjords of Chile.
All staterooms have balconies, service is also top-notch, and the space-per-passenger ratio allows you to roam the ship without ever encountering a crowd. It’s a truly blissful and enriching cruising experience.
Carnival Cruise Line has taken delivery of its highly anticipated new ship, Mardi Gras, in a live virtual signing ceremony at the Meyer Turku Shipyard in Turku, Finland.
Carnival Cruise Line has taken delivery of its highly anticipated new ship, Mardi Gras, in a live virtual signing ceremony at the Meyer Turku Shipyard in Turku, Finland.
Carnival’s Most Innovative Cruise Ship
When the Mardi Gras begins guest operations in April 2021, the 180,000-gross-ton vessel will be the most innovative ship in North America as it will be the first ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), boast a suite of new technology, and BOLT, the first-ever roller coaster at sea.
Located in the heart of Mardi Gras’ French Quarter zone, Emeril’s Bistro 1396 will showcase the chef’s signature dishes that earned him the reputation as one of New Orleans’ most acclaimed and respected chefs.
BAM! Mardi Gras Dining
The ship’s venues, dining and entertainment will be dispersed throughout six distinctive zones, and include a new restaurant by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, the line’s first-ever Big Chicken by Shaquille O’Neal, two dining venues led by Food Network star Guy Fieri, and a new restaurant concept by master chef Rudi Sodamin. The centerpiece of the ship is a breathtaking three-deck-high atrium with floor-to-ceiling windows and movable LED screens that open up to a stunning ocean view.
“I’ve developed restaurants all over the country, but to create my first restaurant at sea – on a ship named Mardi Gras with its own French Quarter, no less – was an opportunity I simply could not pass up,” said Lagasse. “I’m excited to be a part of this brand new ship and bring a taste of the flavors of New Orleans cuisine to the guests sailing on Mardi Gras.”
Mardi Gras will accommodate more than 5,200 guests and a crew of 2,000. Guests will have the choice of more than 2,600 staterooms and 180 suites across 11 categories.
Mardi Gras Captain Giuseppe Giusa
“We have been working tirelessly this year to get to this exciting day to take delivery of this beautiful ship, and the team at Meyer Turku has been an outstanding partner throughout this process,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “I cannot wait for our guests and crew to see and experience Mardi Gras. Notwithstanding the delays related to the pandemic, there is tremendous enthusiasm and pent-up demand for this ship. Next we will work on the development of her sister ship, Carnival Celebration, which arrives in 2022 and has sold very well since inventory opened in October.”
“We are delivering a beautiful and highly advanced ship with world-class technology such as LNG propulsion, to name just one. With these sophisticated systems, she will be one of the most environmentally friendly ships to sail the North American waters. I am very proud of our team of shipbuilders and would like to thank everyone involved of their dedication during the building process”, CEO of Meyer Turku, Tim Meyer, states.
La Piazza transports to Italy where they celebrate the rich heritage of Carnival’s senior officers with authentic cuisine, coffee and cocktails.
Sailing From Port Canaveral
Duffy said Mardi Gras will depart from Turku later this month to begin her voyage to North America. The ship will operate seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Fla., and Carnival has worked closely Port Canaveral to build a new cruise terminal to accommodate the Excel-class ship and also facilitate the new LNG fueling process. The inaugural voyage for Mardi Gras is scheduled for April 24, 2021.
To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visitCarnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.
MSC Meraviglia, MSC Cruises’ stunning smart ship launched in June 2017, will be arriving to North America for the first time this October.
MSC Cruises recently reconfirmed their winter cruise program for the 2021/2022 season (October 2021 through April 2022) with a wide array of appealing itineraries in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, South America, South Africa and the Gulf region, as well as Grand Voyages (repositioning cruises), with new itineraries across continents and different oceans. Guests can choose from sought-after destinations and discover multiple countries, all while relaxing and unwinding in style on board some of the youngest and most modern cruise ships at sea, offering round-the-clock entertainment and activities, authentic international dining, award-winning kids and family offerings, luxurious spa and wellness facilities, boutique shopping and more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln-uwi8cf7s
The winter 2021/2022 program offers something for every type of traveler — those looking for a short getaway, families looking to enjoy the holidays together or adventurers seeking longer trips to discover new destinations. Through January 3, 2021, guests looking to book their future cruise getaway can enjoy up to 50% off, plus Kids Sail Free on select sailings, to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Northern Europe. In addition, with MSC Cruises’ Total CruiseFlex, cruisers have the flexibility to reschedule their booked cruise up to 48 hours before their departure to any ship and any sail date departing before April 30, 2022.
MSC Meraviglia — MSC Cruises’ first Meraviglia Class smart ship. With a double occupancy capacity of 4,488 and gross tonnage of 171,598 GRT, MSC Meraviglia is MSC Cruises’ largest ship sailing from the U.S and sets the record for the largest ship to ever port in Manhattan.
Four Ships Sailing From US Waters
Further continuing a strong presence in North America, MSC Cruises will deploy four ships in the region next winter – with ships sailings from Miami as well as Orlando (Port Canaveral), a brand-new home port for the Company. In addition, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private destination in The Bahamas, will remain a highlight of cruises from the U.S., with nearly all itineraries including a call at the island. Exclusive to MSC Cruises’ guests, the private island — located just 65 miles from Miami — is surrounded by 64 square miles of marine reserve, offering guests a unique opportunity to discover local marine life, soak up the spirit of Bahamian culture and reconnect with themselves and each other as they enjoy the outdoors.
Following her inaugural season in the Mediterranean in summer 2021, MSC Seashorewill head to her new homeport of Miami in November 2021, offering alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including stops at Ocean Cay in The Bahamas. As the first of two enriched Seaside EVO Class ships, MSC Seashore has been enhanced with extended public spaces, more staterooms and the highest ratio of outdoor space per guest of any cruise ship in the Company’s fleet. The ship will include a new double deck show lounge below the aft pool; an extended indoor main pool allowing for more outdoor space; and new specialty dining restaurants, with an area connected to the ship’s outdoor promenade for an al fresco dining option.
The classic and charming MSC Armonia, homeporting in Miami, will offer a choice of 3-, 4- and 7-night cruises that include Ocean Cay, and on some itineraries offering an overnight stay at the stunning private island.
MSC Divina, known for her elegance and sophistication, will start the season out of Orlando (Port Canaveral), before then moving to Miami in December 2021. This popular ship for the U.S will offer a range of itineraries with 3- and 4-night short cruises to Ocean Cay and Nassau in The Bahamas, a variety of different 7-night itineraries and extended 11-night cruises (starting in December 2021) that call Jamaica, Aruba, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Ocean Cay.
For the first time the innovative and wondrous MSC Meravigliawill homeport in Orlando (Port Canaveral) offering a mix of shorter 3- and 4-night cruises as well as 6-, 7-and 8-night cruises (starting November 2021) with full day calls in the Mexican ports of Costa Maya and Cozumel.
MSC Seaview – Homeporting in Fort-de-France
MSC Seaview will also call the Caribbean home during the winter 2021/2022 season, this time homeporting in Fort-de-France, in the shadow of Mount Pelée and a stone’s throw from the Jardin de Balata botanical gardens. Shewill sail from the capital of Martinique on through the Antilles and West Indies, with a series of 7-night cruises. Highlights include Saint Lucia, Guadeloupe and Antigua and Barbuda, where the mesmerizing clear blue waters and white sandy beaches will appeal to sun-worshippers’ desires.
Four Ships For Mediterranean Cruises
MSC Cruises is renowned for its iconic Mediterranean cruises, with varied itineraries and the most embarkation ports of any cruise line in the region. For Winter 2021/2022, four ships will be deployed in this popular region.
MSC Grandiosa, will call in some of Europe’s most popular destinations. Genoa, with its numerous palaces and winding streets, will serve as a key embarkation port for guests, as well as the artistic and gastronomic wonderland of Barcelona and key to the South of France, Marseille. In addition to these gems, the ship will call in the beautiful Palermo, Civitavecchia for access to Rome, and the awe-inspiring old port of Valletta, Malta.
The glamorous MSC Fantasia will also sail a classic 7-night itinerary with the choice of multiple embarkation ports in MSC Cruises’ most visited destinations including Barcelona, Marseille and Genoa, as well as Italian cultural highlights, including La Spezia – with easy connections to Florence, Pisa and the Cinque Terre – and Naples – famous for their pizzas the world over, before calling in Palma de Mallorca, in the Balearic islands.
MSC Magnifica will offer extended 11-night cruises with two different itineraries for those looking for a little more adventure next winter. The first starts in Genoa and then to Greece, calling Katakolon, Piraeus and Rhodes before reaching Haifa in Israel where the ship remains overnight allowing a full day to discover ashore, and then on to Heraklion, Civitavecchia and back to Genoa. The second itinerary visits five countries – starting in Genoa, then heading to Barcelona in Spain, Casablanca in Morocco for an extended stay, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Funchal in Portugal, Malaga in Spain and then Civitavecchia and Genoa in Italy.
MSC Poesia will offer 5- and 10-night cruises out of Genoa before embarking on the 2022 World Cruise from Genoa on January 5, 2022.
Gulf Region Cruises
The Gulf region will host two MSC Cruises’ ships for the winter season and guests will be able to attend the postponed Expo 2020 Dubai, which will now commence in October 2021.
MSC Virtuosa, one of the Company’s newest ships, launching in April 2021, will spend her first winter season in the region, homeporting in Dubai. From there, the ship will sail to the nearby modern metropolis of Abu Dhabi, on to Sir Bani Yas Island, where guests will have a chance to discover an exotic array of wildlife or bask in the warm sun on the immaculate beaches, all exclusive to MSC Cruises on the days which the ships call. The ship also calls Bahrain, and Doha, the futuristic capital of Qatar, before returning to Dubai with an overnight in the city to discover all the marvels it has to offer.
MSC Opera, will offer a 7-night itinerary that includes two overnights in Dubai to allow guests to fully explore this incredible city as well as calling Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas and Muscat in Oman, one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the Gulf.
2022 MSC World Cruise
Guests seeking to explore the world can sail aboard MSC Poesia on a brand-new 116-night itinerary around the globe departing on January 5, 2022. The World Cruise will visit 43 amazing destinations in 24 countries with nine overnight stays.
South America Cruises
The program for Winter 2021/2022 in South America will feature four modern ships with embarkation in Brazil, as well as a fifth ship in the region with embarkations in Argentina.
MSC Seaside will sail 6-, 7-, 8-nights from Santos, Brazil. MSC Preziosa will offer 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-night sailings from Santos as well as 7- and 8-night cruises from Rio de Janeiro, calling Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina.MSC Splendida will also sail 7-night cruises from Santos, also calling Uruguay and Argentina.MSC Sinfonia will homeport in Itajai, Brazil with 6-, 7-, 8-, and 9-night cruises calling Uruguay and Argentina.MSC Orchestra will homeport in Buenos Aires, Argentina with 8-, 9-, and 10-night sailings also calling Brazil and Uruguay.
South Africa Cruises
MSC Lirica will join MSC Musica in South Africa. MSC Lirica will homeport in Cape Town and MSC Musica in Durban between November 2021 and April 2022 to offer 14 different cruise itineraries that range in length from 2 to 14 nights. The two ships will alternate their routes to provide cruisers with a wider choice of options to suit their vacation needs.
MSC Grand Voyages/Repositioning Cruises – 81 ports of call in 38 countries
Between October and November 2021, MSC Cruises will expand its already rich itineraries portfolio, with 11 new inspiring Grand Voyages across eleven ships. The new MSC Grand Voyages for the Winter will depart from the major ports worldwide and will last from 17 to 26 nights. In Spring 2022, 11 Grand Voyages, ranging from 15 to 27 nights, will be available with ships returning from the Gulf, Brazil and Argentina, South Africa, Martinique and the U.S., sailing to Europe for the start of the Summer 2022 season. During this unforgettable cruise vacation, MSC Cruises’ guests will have the opportunity to explore and learn from the cultures they will come across thanks to a wide selection of shore excursions.
Santa Claus Takes Ride On First Cruise Ship Roller Coaster
Santa Claus took a break from his pre-Christmas festivities to venture down to Finland and take a test run on BOLT, the first-ever roller coaster at sea aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s new Mardi Gras which is being delivered at the Meyer Turku shipyard later this week.
With enthusiastic shrieks of delight and a few hearty “ho-ho-ho’s” echoing throughout the shipyard, Santa zipped along the 800-foot-long track featuring a hairpin curve around the ship’s iconic funnel, all while achieving speeds of up to 40 miles an hour. The all-electric coaster can accommodate two riders – or one Santa Claus and his bag of toys, perhaps – in motorcycle-like vehicles that race 187 feet above the water line, providing incredible views to the sea below.
“Never in my wildest dreams would I think a rollercoaster could be on a cruise ship. It’s something we’ll be talking about at the North Pole for a long time!” St. Nick said.
American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) and Victory Cruise Lines (VCL), Hornblower® Family Companies, are pleased to announce new enhancements and offerings as the ships look forward to welcoming aboard their guests once again in 2021. The upgraded offerings and operations will include increased measures made to health and safety protocols, the 2021 Wave Offer, elevated suite amenities and fresh culinary experiences. AQSC and VCL will also kick off the 2021 sailing season debuting two vessels to their fleets, the American Countess and the Ocean Victory, in addition to unveiling expanded Special Edition Voyages. This announcement follows the recent launch of the AQSC 2021 Paddlewheel Collection Brochure, the 2022 season itineraries for AQSC and VCL featuring newly offered routes and the recently launched Steamboat and Victory Academy (SAVA), a travel agent certification program tailored specifically to AQSC and VCL cruises.
“We have been hard at work to make the upcoming 2021 season the greatest, thus far, for our guests with new special edition themed voyages, expanded inclusive offerings, suite upgrades and 100% rapid testing for guests and crew,” shares John Waggoner, CEO and founder of American Queen Steamboat Company. “Coming off the heels of an unprecedented year, we are looking forward to the future and being able to welcome aboard our loyal guests once again as we continue to offer amazing experiences. We have a great deal to be excited about and have focused on every detail so that we can provide the safest cruising experiences possible.”
New Health And Safety Procedures
To ensure the safety and comfort of both guests and crew, AQSC and VCL are staying current with guidance, mandates and public health advancements communicated by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), United States Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), United States Coast Guard (USGC), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the municipalities each vessel visits.
All vessels will be operating with newly enhanced health and safety protocols including, but not limited to:
100 percent COVID-19 testing for all guests and crew prior to embarkation on every voyage
Mandatory masks in all venues and in situations where recommended social distancing is not possible including entertainment venues, elevators, shoreside and shore excursion moto coaches.
Pre-boarding health screenings for guests and crew members
Contactless facial recognition and temperature check at the gangway
Reduced vessel capacity
Mandatory social distancing protocols in all public spaces
Standardized measures throughout the vessels to prioritize regular cleaning and disinfecting of guest corridors and public spaces with medical-grade EPA-approved solutions as well as twice daily anti-viral electrostatic fogging.
The cruise lines have enacted expert-approved procedures for every aspect of the cruise experience, including crewmember standards, food and beverage practices and shore excursions.
AQSC and VCL’s all-inclusive fares include a one-night, pre-cruise hotel stay with free ground transfers between the hotel and vessel and “hop-on/hop-off” top-rated shore excursions provided through Shore Excursions of America, part of the Hornblower Company, a complimentary offering available at every port to enhance the guests experience. Additionally, new upgrades and amenities have been added to the guest experience including unlimited complimentary beverages featuring world-class wine lists, top-shelf spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees from open bars & lounges throughout the vessel, including a smoothie and juice bar every morning. The culinary program has also been refined for an ultimate dining experience to include fresh lobster and USDA prime beef available every night as well as free 24-hour in-room dining. Guests will also enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi access, complimentary use of bicycles and hiking sticks for shore excursions and adventures, as well as on-cruise entertainment and enrichment programs.
New Upgrades And Amenities
Per AQSC and VCL’s dedication to providing high level, all-inclusive cruise experiences, over the past year both operators have revamped their onboard offerings across culinary programming, suite amenities and overall hospitality experience. Highlights include:
Culinary Upgrades
Unlimited beverages including world-class wine lists, top-shelf spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees from open bars and lounges throughout the vessel
Complimentary hiking sticks for inclusive itineraries
Eco-friendly shopping bags with AQSC/VCL logo
Two Senior Officers greet guests at the Dining Room each evening
Two Senior Officers welcome guests returning from premium tours
New Vessels Debuting In 2021
American Countess™ – Built using the existing hull of former gaming vessel, the Kanesville Queen, the American Countess™ was lengthened by 60-feet and underwent a total renovation in the Gulf Island Shipyard located in Houma, L.A. Her sleek, contemporary design will offer plenty of open space for guests to enjoy invigorating itineraries along the Tennessee, Ohio, Cumberland and Mississippi rivers. The American Countess™ features a portside bar, which will delight guests with an 80-foot panoramic view, four decks and 123 inviting staterooms in four categories. Following her highly anticipated christening and VIP cruise in the spring of 2021, this paddlewheeler will become a home away from home for guests embarking on six- to 15-day itineraries.
Ocean Victory™ – The 104.4m Ocean Victory™ will feature 93 suites, some of which will have French balconies or panoramic windows. Onboard venues include two restaurants, in addition to an open-deck dining area, piano bar, library, gym, heated outdoor pool, spa services and jacuzzi, plus observation and lecture lounges and a dedicated expedition and outdoor adventure launch platform. After her christening and inaugural sailing in the late spring of 2021, Ocean Victory™ is scheduled for immersive 12- or 13-day itineraries from Vancouver, B.C. to Sitka, Alaska (or reverse), offering stunning views of Firodland Conservancy’s dramatic waterfalls dropping into deep fjords, Sawyer and Dawes Glaciers and expansive ice fields at LeConte. The vessel will also sail the Pacific Paradise journey from San Diego to San Jose, as well as an exclusive one-time itinerary from Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle, W.A.
The 2021 Paddlewheel Collection highlights the comfort and adventure of close-to-home travel with sailings on AQSC’s U.S. flagged fleet along American rivers. AQSC will operate four steamboat paddlewheelers in 2021, the American Queen™, American Duchess™ and brand-new American Countess™ in the American South and Heartland, with the American Empress™ sailing the Pacific Northwest. From Hannibal, MO, home of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, to Nottoway, a historic 1850’s mansion to the majestic views of the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, there’s no better way to explore uniquely American waters than by an intimate river cruise.
New Itineraries Coming In 2022
Earlier this month, AQSC and VCL revealed the collection of all-new itineraries available beginning in February 2022. Aboard AQSC’s famed paddlewheelers, cruisers can look forward to ‘Scenic Gorges in Autumn’, a journey through stunning tree-lined bluffs with bright fall-foliage, from Memphis to Chattanooga (or reverse), a ‘Roundtrip Cincinnati’ route with an exclusive Kentucky Derby Experience and themed Special Edition Voyages like the ‘Exploring Haunted History’ itinerary where guests can learn about the ghostly legends and lore that make history of the Lower Mississippi River come alive and the ‘Quilting the Fabric of America’ itinerary which features expert quilters leading hands-on quilting sessions. And, with VCL, guests can anticipate the uncharted routes from Savannah to Halifax highlighting the historic roots of Eastern port cities, Montreal to Detroit showcasing the best of North America from Niagara Falls to charming Canadian metropolis and a memorable journey from Boston to tropical Nassau.
Each session begins each day at 11am PST / 2pm EST. Content is also taped and available to view the following day on Viking.TV.
Monday, December 14 – Learn about extraordinary dogs and their remarkable stories. Immortalized as statues, Viking team members will share these stories from around the world.
Wednesday, December 16 – In northern Norway, meet the huskies of Alta – an excursion on Viking’s In Search of Northern Lights itinerary. Meet the dogs, learn about how they are trained and take part in a live Q&A with Trine Lyrek, owner of the husky center.
Sunday, December 20 – Sissel Sundays – Sissel will share more Christmas themed songs including performances of “White Christmas,” “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” “Helliga natt (O Holy Night),” and “Feliz Navidad.”
Azamara has announced its 2021 WAVE Offer. Guests booking between now and March 31, 2021 will enjoy savings of up to 40% for select sailings between March 20, 2021 and May 13, 2022. Other perks of the offer include complimentary WI-FI for guests staying in an Oceanview stateroom or higher, exclusive cultural events, and consumer flexibility with the company’s “Cruise with Confidence” program, which allows guests to book worry-free by January 31, 2021 and change their voyage up to 48-hours before the sailing. Azamara’s three ships — Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, and Azamara Pursuit — all have participating voyages.
In accordance with the brand’s commitment to Destination Immersion, and the addition of more late-night stays and overnights in different ports, Azamara’s guests can immerse themselves into local culture.
Sailings that can be booked with the 2021 WAVE offer include the Iberia Intensive Voyage — offering the chance to travel Spain and Portugal, permitting an overnight in Sevilla that comes with a wealth of excursions such as a Flamenco show and trip to nearby Jerez de la Frontera to taste the area’s lauded sherry wines; Norway Intensive & Svalbard Voyage — which includes eight late nights and excursions such as hiking along the resident fjords and a crabbing expedition out in the wild; and the Australia/New Zealand Voyage — allowing for three late nights, one overnight, and a sweeping variety of programming that includes whale watching and touring the legendary Marlborough wine region.
To learn more about the sale, please visit this link.
