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Azamara Announces New Explorations for 2022 and 2023

By
John Shallo
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Azamara Pursuit
Azamara Pursuit

Azamara, is excited to announce the remainder of itineraries for 2022 as well as 2023 (Q1), featuring over 80 new itineraries, and more than 170 overnights and 300 late night stays. As the brand furthers its commitment to more in-depth exploration by connecting guests to a country’s local life and culture, Azamara will offer more Country-Intensive Voyages between 2022 and 2023 than ever before, allowing guests to experience iconic destinations as well as hidden gems, all within a single country.

“As the leader in Destination Immersion®, we are always enthusiastic about sharing our new deployment, this year it’s even more special as we have the opportunity to announce an extension of our Country-Intensive Voyages,” says Chief Operating Officer, Carol Cabezas. “When we were working on our itineraries for 2022/2023, our goal was to invite new and returning guests to explore places they have never visited before, or better yet, connect our guests to a country they have traveled to before, but adding in ports that are considered hidden gems to allow for a new experience, which our Country-Intensives are designed to offer.”

With over 275 ports of call in more than 70 countries, 26 of the ports will be offered in Greece, with two maiden ports: Syros, and Tinos. Azamara will also add on returning guest favorites including, Greece Country-Intensives, voyages to the Black Sea and Egypt-Israel intensive voyages. Further south, Azamara will continue another guest favorite, South Africa Intensive voyages.

Azamara Announces New Explorations for 2022 and 2023 | 13

Highlights of some maiden ports include:

  • Off the beaten path, Syros, Greece: Far less hedonistic than its neighbors, Mykonos and Santorini. Instead, it offers an authentic look at what Greek life is truly like on the Cyclades. Home to fantastic food and beautiful beaches, Syros is a hidden gem that doesn’t necessarily want to be discovered — only further adding to its unmistakable charm.
  • Poignant Landmarks, Pink Lakes, and Free-Roaming Wildlife in Dakar, Senegal: Enigmatic, electric, and endlessly explorable, Dakar dazzles on the West African coast. Jutting out on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the city is the westernmost point of the African continent, and was an important trading point for European colonial powers.
  • A wonderland of urban delights and pastoral pursuits in Aberdeen, Scotland:  Remote and northerly, Scotland’s third largest city is a surprising gem with distinctive architecture and a cosmopolitan feel. Admire the granite architecture that varies from highly ornamented Victorian to robust, rough-hewn Scottish façade in the heart of quaint Old Aberdeen

For more information on Azamara’s 2022 & 2023 deployment, please visit this link here.

Atlas Ocean Voyages First To Include Emergency Evacuation and Return-To-Home Insurance

By
John Shallo
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World Navigator Antarctica
World Navigator Antarctica

A first for the cruise industry, Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced that the luxury-expedition cruise brand will include emergency evacuation and return-to-home insurance for all guests, in keeping with its All Inclusive All the Way experience. Seasoned, fun-seeking and like-spirited travelers can travel with greater peace of mind on future luxury adventures aboard World Navigator, Atlas’ new, safe and small expedition ship, launching in July 2021. The insurance covers emergency medical transportation from the ship to a local treatment center, as well as return transportation to home or a medical facility close to home, as required.

Safety – A Top Priority

“Because safety and the health of our guests is our top priority, we are proud to be the first cruise brand to include emergency medical evacuation and return-to-home insurance as part of every booking,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “With this first-ever included insurance coverage, our guests can enjoy peace of mind when sailing our captivating destinations and know that we take care of every detail, as part of our All Inclusive All the Way experience.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand defined by simple and refined elegance and will deliver authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations aboard World Navigator, a newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ship. World Navigator will embark on her inaugural 2021 year, sailing seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas in the summer, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica in winter 2021/22.

World Navigator Deluxe Veranda
World Navigator Deluxe Veranda

All-inclusive Luxury Expedition

Experienced, fun-seeking and like-spirited discerning travelers will find community aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ all-inclusive luxury expedition ships and revel in its welcoming and lively venues to share their day’s exploits. All Atlas Ocean Voyages journeys include emergency medical evacuation insurance; complimentary round-trip air travel from major U.S. and Canada gateways; prepaid gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; free shore excursions in select ports; international gourmet dining; and onboard binoculars, coffee and tea service, and butler service in suites.

Safety is at the core of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B, expedition ships, and all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures are being incorporated into their design. World Navigator’s construction in Portugal is on schedule and the line’s first ship will launch in mid-2021, with sister-ships World Traveller, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer to follow before the end 2023.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is also committed to preserving the breathtaking locales and waters that its ships visit for future generations to enjoy, and is among the first to employ the latest conservation and sustainability technologies, including a hybrid power management and propulsion system that maximizes fuel efficiency and consumes as low as one-fifth the fuel compared to conventional cruise ship systems. Additionally, World Navigator and her sister ships utilize underwater, forward-looking sonar to confidently navigate coastal, harbor and icy polar waters, and feature an alternate hydrojet propulsion system, which helps the ship quietly cruise up to five knots without disturbing marine wildlife for incomparable up-close encounters.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com

Carnival Cruise Line Reveals Mardi Gras’ Massive Grand Central Atrium

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Cruise Line Reveals Mardi Gras' Massive Grand Central Atrium
Carnival Cruise Line Reveals Mardi Gras' Massive Grand Central Atrium

Carnival Cruise Line is breaking the mold with Grand Central, a transformational three-deck-high atrium that is one of six themed zones on Mardi Gras, set to debut in February.

A unique twist on the traditional atrium, Grand Central spans Decks 6, 7 and 8 with massive 3,000-square-foot glass panels built into the starboard side of the ship providing guests with impressive views of the ocean and ports of call as they relax in comfortable seating or stroll throughout the space.

Mardi Gras' Grand Central Atrium
Mardi Gras’ Grand Central Atrium spans Decks 6, 7 and 8 with massive 3,000-square-foot glass panels built into the starboard side of the ship

According to Glenn Aprile, Carnival’s director of new build product development and part of the design team that developed the groundbreaking venue, the idea was to create a space that was as functional as it was eye-catching, while providing guests with that “take your breath away” moment when they first board the vessel.

“Building an atrium into the side of a cruise ship is no easy task and it was a total team effort between our new build management team, engineers, designers, and hotel and entertainment teams to create a space that is as beautiful as it is functional,” Aprile said.

During the day, Grand Central serves as a relaxing spot for guests to enjoy a coffee, drink or light fare, people watch, listen to live music, or partake in trivia contests and other leisurely pursuits.  At night, Grand Central transforms into an intimate and immersive venue with a rotation of spectacular, soon-to-be-revealed experiences created just for Mardi Gras.  Talented performers will interact with 16 individually controlled six- by 14-foot LED screens displaying video and special effects, as well as lasers and aerial feats to create a truly unforgettable entertainment experience.

Mardi Gras' Grand Central Atrium
Mardi Gras’ Grand Central Atrium

Aprile noted that “with a ship as innovative as Mardi Gras we wanted to create a multi-functional dining and entertainment space that guests can enjoy day and night, while at the same time providing an intuitive way to get around the ship and creating  a dramatic centerpiece that is worthy of our most innovative ship.   Grand Central provides all that and more.  We are extremely pleased with the results thus far.”

Overlooking Grand Central is the multi-level Grand View Bar which like its name implies offers guests a chance to enjoy floor-to-ceiling sea views as they sip custom-cocktails and other libations, amidst awe-inspiring design touches like a virtual waterfall on translucent panels.    There’s also the Center Stage Bar on the main level.  Both venues will feature specialty cocktails inspired by the theme of that evening’s entertainment.

Mardi Gras' Grand Central Atrium
Mardi Gras’ Grand Central Atrium

Steps away is Java Blue, which in addition to serving coffees, cappuccinos and lattes like other Carnival ships, offers a menu of fresh bakery items, wraps, salads and other light fare throughout the day.   The Cherry on Top sweets shop is also nearby for those who want to enjoy a decadent treat, as are the retail shops and casino, providing a variety of fun options for guests to enjoy.

Connecting all of these spaces are a series of spacious and airy promenades and bridges that serve as convenient thoroughfares to other areas of the ship while allowing guests to see all the other happenings on board, adding to the excitement.

Carnival Cruise Line Reveals Mardi Gras' Massive Grand Central Atrium | 13
Mardi Gras’ Grand Central Atrium construction photo (September 2020).” width=”1024″ height=”768″ /> Mardi Gras’ Grand Central Atrium construction photo (September 2020).

Noted Aprile, “We put the engineers and designers to the test here and our teams have taken everything we’ve learned about shipbuilding and interior design to create a stunning, comfortable and functional environment that truly sets Grand Central apart from other shipboard venues. With its transformation from daytime relaxation to nighttime entertainment, Grand Central is unlike anything that’s ever been done on a cruise ship before and our guests are going to love it.”

Mardi Gras
Carnival Cruise Lines’ Mardi Gras Set to Debut from Port Canaveral in February 2021

The first North American cruise ship powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Mardi Gras is set to debut from Port Canaveral, Fla., Feb. 6, 2021, operating week-long itineraries from the Space Coast.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Viking Announces New Mississippi Itinerary Offering Exclusive Graceland Access

By
John Shallo
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Viking Mississippi
Viking Mississippi Rendering

With strong demand for Viking’s new Mississippi river cruises, Viking has released a new itinerary for its maiden season – Mississippi Holiday Season.

Setting sail in December 2022, the new 8-day itinerary will explore destinations between New Orleans and Memphis. In addition to Christmas light displays, Cajun cuisine and historic ports of call, guests will enjoy exclusive Privileged Access to Graceland. During this special excursion to Elvis Presley’s iconic mansion, guests will experience a private, after-hours visit including a tour of the mansion and the complex’s connecting venues and exhibits – Presley Cycles, Archives Experience, Private Presley: Elvis in the Army Exhibit, Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum, and more.

This week, Viking.TV will celebrate the highly anticipated Mississippi cruises with a week of new content exploring the iconic river.

On Tuesday, September 29 (11am PT/2pm ET), join a livestream with Richard Riveire to discover the inspiration and design details for Viking’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, debuting in August 2022.

Mississippi Week on Viking.TV starting September 28:

Each livestream begins each day at 11am PST / 2pm EST. Content is also taped and available to view the following day on Viking.TV.  

Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.

Purpose-built for the Mississippi and currently under construction in Louisiana, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows, and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region.

Viking Mississippi Rendering
Viking Mississippi Fwd Suite Deck 3 Bedroom

Sustainable Features

Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make Viking Mississippi the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River.

Viking Inclusive Value

Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi.

Cruise Compete

Recommended:

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®’ 2023 World Cruise Breaks Booking Record for Second Year in a Row

By
John Shallo
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Seven Seas Mariner
Seven Seas Mariner

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, has once again shattered the company’s previous world cruise opening day booking record, with reservations doubling the previous record set by the 2022 World Cruise. The line experienced the longest waitlist for a world cruise in its history, with all Penthouse Suites and above selling out within a matter of hours when sales opened on September 23.

“Our world cruises are always highly anticipated, and I am delighted with the response to our latest global voyage, especially considering the unprecedented public health challenges we are currently navigating,” stated Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “This record-breaking 2023 World Cruise launch day demonstrates people’s willingness to take long cruises to exotic lands and the substantial appetite for luxury travel our guests have and it is a testament to the unrivalled Regent experience that our outstanding crew have perfected.”

Regent’s 2023 World Cruise is the line’s longest since 2011 and will explore South America, South Pacific Islands, Australia, Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, Africa and Spain on a 143-night voyage across 72 ports of call.

The epic journey spans six continents from Miami, Florida to Barcelona, Spain in nearly five months, sailing January 7 to May 30, 2023. Full voyage details can be found in the dedicated brochure and an enticing World Cruise 2023 video has also been created.

Seven Seas Mariner®, the world’s first all-suite, all-balcony ship, will take luxury travelers “Beyond the Horizon,” re-igniting a love for the water by sailing a total of 38,279 nautical miles, including a full transit of the Panama Canal and the navigation of three oceans, 14 seas, straits, gulfs, bays and channels. On land guests will have untold adventures in 42 countries with up to 356 FREE shore excursions and access to 48 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Guests will also enjoy extended adventure in 11 ports which feature overnight stays, and be treated to exclusive shoreside experiences in three highly exotic destinations – Bali, Indonesia; Singapore; and Walvis Bay, Namibia – as well as a glamorous pre-cruise gala in Miami.

Though only a few suite categories remain available due to the record-breaking launch day, fares range from $77,999 to $208,999 per guest with every luxury included and past world cruise guests and Seven Seas Society® Members enjoy additional savings. The unforgettable expedition includes a broad collection of bespoke and exclusive amenities, such as first-class air, door-to-door luggage service, unlimited valet laundry, dry-cleaning and pressing, onboard medical services, visa packages, phone time per suite, a commemorative gift and more. This is in addition to the personalized service, exquisite dining in ambient restaurants, premium beverages in a number of bars and lounges, entertainment and unlimited internet access found on board all Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyages and all included in the fare.

Should guests be hungry for even more adventure, Regent has designed 14 bespoke optional overland programs, half of which are completely new and will immerse travelers into fascinating destinations. The tailored tours, which are supplementary, are led by local expert guides and designed to maximize time on shore, with guests leaving the ship for up to four days at a time. Highlights include exploring the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, unlocking the mysteries of Machu Picchu and searching for Africa’s Big Five.

Montague continued, “Featuring a veritable treasure trove of up to 356 FREE shore excursions and a focus on lesser traveled areas of the globe such as Polynesia and Melanesia, Southeast Asia and Africa’s west coast, our 2023 World Cruise is one of the longest and most exciting sailings we have ever curated. This coupled with our highly personalized onboard service, and the fact that every imaginable luxury is included, creates a truly unrivaled experience and the perfect environment for guests to create life-long memories with fellow, like-minded travelers.”

For more information please visit www.RSSC.com, call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-873-2381) or contact a professional travel advisor.

Costa Cruises Announces New 2021 Itineraries

By
John Shallo
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Costa Smeralda
Costa Smeralda

Costa Cruises has announced it will continue its program for the gradual and responsible reintroduction of cruise holidays. Following the presentation of its cruises for the 2020-21 winter season, the Italian company has reshaped its itineraries for the rest of 2021, with the goal of providing guests the best possible cruise experience with enhanced health protocols.

From April through November 2021 Costa Cruises will further extend its Mediterranean offer with a large variety of options and the convenience of multiple ports of departure. Also, summer 2021 will see the return of cruising in Northern Europe, one of the most popular destinations among Costa’s guests.

Details of the new itineraries and how to book them will be available shortly at Costa’s website and at travel agencies. Costa is working with national and local authorities in the countries on its itineraries to offer guests a safe and enjoyable vacation experience, through implementation of the Costa Safety Protocol in all the destinations included in the new program for 2021.

From March until fall 2021, three ships will be deployed on a regular basis in the Western Mediterranean: Costa Smeralda, the first ship in the fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG); Costa Firenze, its new ship under construction at Fincantieri’s Marghera (Venice) yard; and Costa Pacifica, which will be offering 7-day cruises calling in Italy, France and Spain.

Three additional ships will be operating in the Eastern Mediterranean, all on one-week itineraries. Costa Deliziosa will sail to the Greek islands, Costa Luminosa will visit Greece and Croatia and Costa Magica will be going to Greece and Malta.

During the 2021 summer season, Costa will have four ships cruising in Northern Europe. Costa Fortuna and Costa Diadema will be sailing on one-week cruises to the Baltic capitals and the Norwegian fjords, respectively. Costa Favolosa will be offering spectacular 14-day holidays in Iceland, nine days in the Norwegian fjords and a fortnight in Ireland, Scotland and England. Costa Fascinosa will be operating on a 12-day cruise sailing all the way to the North Cape, and on a 9-day itinerary in the Baltic Sea.

During spring and fall 2021, Costa Fortuna, Costa Diadema, Costa Favolosa and Costa Fascinosa will all be operating in the Mediterranean. Costa Diadema will visit Israel and Turkey on two separate alternating two-week cruises. Costa Fortuna will offer Western Mediterranean mini-cruises while Costa Favolosa will be deployed on mini-cruises in the spring and 10-day cruises to Morocco in the fall. Costa Fascinosa will sail on 10-day holidays bound for Lisbon.

The other cruises previously scheduled between March and November 2021 and not included in the new program will be canceled. Costa is making the necessary arrangements to inform travel agents and the customers concerned, who will be guaranteed the option of rebooking in accordance with the applicable requirements of consumer protection law.

PONANT Joins Green Marine’s North American Environmental Certification Program

By
John Shallo
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PONANT's Edie Rodriguez to Host Americas Brand Chairman Cruise

PONANT is the first international cruise line to be awarded by the Green Marine environmental certification program for its environmental standards. The initiative distinguishes players in the maritime industry that exceed regulatory requirements, reduce their environmental footprint and continue to improve their performance year over year. 

Green Marine’s environmental program offers a specific framework for port authorities, terminal operators, ship owners and shipyard managers to productively and measurably reduce their environmental footprint. Green Marine addresses a number of priority environmental issues through its 13 performance indicators – seven of which are designated for ship owners. Assessed on a scale from 1 to 5, PONANT was evaluated across the following categories: underwater noise, pollution atmospheric emissions (NOX, SOX and PM), greenhouse gas emissions (CO2), invasive aquatic species, waste management and oil discharges. PONANT obtained an average of 4.4 and achieved Level 5 (leadership and excellence) for five of the seven indicators.  

More than 145 Canadian and U.S. enterprises currently participate in the North American program. Any international company is also eligible to obtain certification as long as it operates in North America. The  certification process is independently verified every two years and the individual performance of each company is made public annually on the Green Marine website: https://green-marine.org/certification/results/. 

“Our visions of tomorrow’s tourism, sustainable and responsible, prompts us to constantly impose ever more virtuous standards in terms of respect for the environment. Engaging in a rigorous certification and continual improvement process, such as the one offered by Green Marine, is natural,” states Nicolas Dubreuil, PONANT’s Polar & Tropical Expedition Expert and Director of Sustainability. “A halt to heavy fuel oil use, the utilization of the latest technological innovations, a dramatic reduction of single-use plastics, the implementation of environmental and societal impact studies, awareness-raising among our passengers, the creation of our foundation – we do everything we can to ensure that the environment’s preservation is at the heart of our actions.” 

David Bolduc, Green Marine’s executive director, is proud to welcome PONANT to the certified participants’ program. “This is a major ship owner in the cruise sector that has repeatedly demonstrated its community to sustainable development through several initiatives, in terms of atmospheric emissions, plastics reduction, carbon offsetting or new technologies,“ Bolduc explains. 

Atlas Unveils New MAX SHORE Experiences at Crossroads of Europe and Asia

By
John Shallo
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World Explorer
Atlas Ocean Voyages - World Explorer

Due to the popularity of its innovative and unique new all-inclusive MAX SHORE experiences, Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled two new luxe-adventure itineraries, which feature included, immersive and complimentary “vacations-within-vacations.”

Discerning and experienced travelers can choose World Navigator’s two new 24-night MAX SHORE itineraries, departing August 4, 2021, from Odessa, Ukraine, to the Black, Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean Seas’ smallest, authentic and enchanting destinations. Guests will call at 19 ports in seven countries, and choose one of two complimentary three-night, inland expeditions, mid-voyage, into the heart of the Anatolian peninsula, the historic crossroads of Europe and Asia. In keeping with Atlas’ All Inclusive All the Way style, all guests enjoy included air and land transportation, hotels, meals and beverages are also included on MAX SHORE voyages aboard World Navigator, the line’s newly constructed and small, expedition ship, launching in July 2021.

“The response to our initial MAX SHORE itineraries has been incredible – with one selling out within weeks,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “These MAX SHORE itineraries are perfect for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, luxury experience to explore remote archeological sites, unique landscapes and authentic experiences of the Black Sea and Turkey. What makes MAX SHORE innovative is that guests have two luxury vacations in one, combining small-ship, luxury voyages with included and complimentary adventures into the heart of a destination – in this case, the historic crossroads of Europe and Asia.”

Travelers can choose between two fascinating MAX SHORE itineraries: Magical Cappadocia – Russia to Israel or Hidden Histories & The Pamukkale Hot Springs. Each MAX SHORE begins on the ninth day, when World Navigator arrives in Istanbul, Turkey. On these MAX SHORE experiences, guests have the enviable opportunity to take to the skies in a hot-air balloon for a picturesque and awe-inspiring ride over Geröme or Pamukkale, often seen in social media. The Cappadocia MAX SHORE focuses on the beauty of the Turkish countryside, while the Pamukkale MAX SHORE will highlight lesser-known antiquities and the Salt Springs. Guests then rejoin World Navigator at Kepez, Turkey. Alternatively, MAX SHORE guests can choose to remain aboard World Navigator and enjoy complimentary local Istanbul shore excursions for three days.

Guests on these MAX SHORE adventures also will call at Novorossiysk, Russia; Batumi, Georgia; Paphos, Cyprus; and the Turkish ports of Sinop, Amasra, Bozcaada, Dikili, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Patmos, Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Kekova Island and Demre. An overnight in Sochi will provide guests additional opportunities for excursions in Russia, while overnights in Masada (Ashdod) and Jerusalem (Haifa), Israel, will also provide guests time to visit Holy Land sites; join in vibrant nightlife; and enjoy some shopping.

On Magical Cappadocia – Russia to Israel, guests enjoy the first day visiting Istanbul’s marquee sites and attractions, capped with a whirling dervish dinner show. A quick flight, the next morning, will bring guests into Kayseri, the gateway to Cappadocia, where they will explore this fascinating, semi-arid geological region. Here, guests will marvel at large, cone-shaped rock formations known as “fairy chimneys,” into which early inhabitants sculpted elaborate cave houses, underground churches, and cathedrals. Guests will also hike the stunning gorge of Ihlara Valley; hot-air balloon over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Göreme National Park; and even stay in a luxury hotel carved into the mountainside.

On Hidden Histories & The Pamukkale Hot Springs, guests trace the routes and ruins of conquerors and ancient civilizations. Featured on this MAX SHORE adventure is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city with a well-preserved theater, a necropolis with sarcophagi that stretch for 1.25 miles, and a pool in which visitors can swim among submerged, fallen columns. Guests also have the opportunity to board a hot-air balloon for a birds-eye view of the ancient city and adjacent mineral forests and petrified. Additionally, guests will visit the charming, modern city of Isparta, nicknamed the City of Roses, known for their rose products, as well as their characteristic colorful woven rugs.

Seasoned, inquisitive, fun-seeking and like-spirited travelers will find community with Atlas Ocean Voyages, an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand, defined by simple and refined elegance, which will deliver authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations aboard the newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ship, World Navigator. Launching in July 2021, World Navigator offers 98 luxe suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private balcony, and will sail seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas in summer 2021, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica in winter 2021/22.

Safety is at the core of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B certified expedition ships, and all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures are being incorporated into their design. World Navigator’s construction in Portugal is on schedule, and sister-ships World Traveller, World Seeker, World Adventurer, and World Discoverer will join the fleet before the end of 2023.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com

Emerald Waterways 2022 European River Cruise Collection On Sale Now

By
John Shallo
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Emerald Waterways
Free Optional Excursions, $1,500 Savings Per Couple and
Early Payment Bonus Available When Booking By October 31

Emerald Waterways has announced that 2022 European river cruise sailings are now available for booking. With 75% of the full schedule on sale now, travelers looking to book a 2022 getaway can choose from favorite itineraries on the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Rhône, Saône and Douro rivers in Europe spanning more than a dozen countries.

Guests booking any 2022 European river cruise of eight days or longer will receive their choice of $1,500 savings per couple or $295 round trip air per person, while those booking a five-day Christmas sailing will receive $1,000 savings per couple or round trip air for just $695 per person. Additionally all guests booking a 2022 European departure will receive all DiscoverMORE tours—a collection of special events that invite you to delve deep into the region—for free.

To sweeten the deal, guests booking a cruise of eight days or more will receive an additional $400 off when paying in full within 14 days of booking, or $200 when paying in full by October 31. For five-day sailings, early payment discounts are $150 and $100, respectively. All bookings include a complimentary Deposit Protection Plan, allowing guests to book with confidence in the event plans change. Offer is good on bookings made by October 31, 2020.

Fitness on the Rivers: Emerald Waterways vs. AmaWaterways

Group travel on the rivers of Europe has enjoyed an upswing in popularity among North American travelers, with families, affinity groups, and friend circles looking to share the experience of a lifetime with people they know and trust. A group with Emerald Waterways can be as small as five cabins—or as large as a full ship charter. Special group rates and group air promotions are available, and booking a group allows for one free sailing for every nine paying guests, representing an excellent value in addition to a novel way to travel with friends and family. With Emerald Waterways’ Group Value Points program, group organizers may also tailor their guests’ experience with a range of amenities, such as onboard credit, drink packages, and additional discounts.

Emerald Waterways is also taking bookings for the 2022 Mekong River cruise season, with sailings through Cambodia and Vietnam take place aboard the line’s newest Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony.

Emerald Cruises is the parent brand of Emerald Waterways and the newly formed Emerald Yacht Cruises. The Emerald Azzurra, the first yacht to launch under the Emerald Yacht Cruises brand, is a 100-guest super yacht that will ply the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Red seas. Emerald Waterways features nine branded Star-Ships offering river sailings in Europe and on the Mekong, as well as the chartered river ship along the Volga River in Russia (MS Nizhny Novgorod). The brand offers contemporary deluxe ships, outstanding service and an incredibly inclusive pricing plan that has won them the honor of being named Best River Cruise Line for Value by the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards for five years running.

Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel advisor; on Emerald Waterways’ website, www.emeraldwaterways.com; or by calling the consumer/travel agent reservations line at 844-428-8389. Digital brochure downloads are available on the website.

Oceania Cruises’ Labor Day Sale Sets Record-Breaking Bookings

By
John Shallo
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Oceania Cruises has announced that its Labor Day upgrade sale proved to be the most successful holiday promotion in the company’s history.

The company attributed the success of the sale, with almost half of the new reservations coming from new-to-brand guests to a combination of an exceptional value proposition and strong demand for a cruise product that features immersive destination-rich itineraries, culinary experiences that rival the finest ashore, and the highest levels of personalized service. Oceania Club members, the line’s repeat guests, comprised slightly more than half of the new reservations with less than five percent of reservations in total utilizing future cruise credits from canceled voyages.

The volume of new reservations validated the company’s recent commitment to an enriched and improved eco-system of sales tools and online reservations capabilities for travel partners and the additional investment in digital outreach to consumers and travel advisors.

“The success of our recent Labor Day upgrade sale underscores the pent-up demand from our loyal repeat guests and incredible appetite from new first-time guests alike,” stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises. “We are especially encouraged by increased interest in small-ship luxury travel experiences from aspirational travelers and the continued support of our travel advisor partners.”

With the strong demand for voyages in 2021 and the first half of 2022, the line will be launching its summer 2022 season of itineraries to Europe, Alaska, Bermuda, and Canada-New England in November, its 2023 Around the World voyage in January and the balance of winter 2022-23 itineraries in February.

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.

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