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Azamara Experiences High Demand for 2021 European Sailings

By
John Shallo
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Azamara
Azamara ,Quest, Blue Hull, Revitalization, revit, revite, Retouch, 2012,

Despite the fact that cruising has come to a halt, for now, the boutique cruise line Azamara is seeing high demand for guests to get back on the water. In a survey sent to 6,000 Azamara loyalty members, almost 50 percent are eager to take a cruise in the next 12-months and over 40 percent of participants are willing to take flights longer than 10-hours. Leading in destinations, Mediterranean sailings are proving to be most popular for 2021, followed by Australia and New Zealand, Iceland, Norway, and the British Isles.

As cruisers begin to think about upcoming trips for 2021, guests of Azamara – along with its parent company Royal Caribbean Group – can take advantage of its Cruise with Confidence benefits. Offering flexibility to change any sailing booked by September 30, 2020, for cruises through April 2022, the program provides peace of mind during the planning process. Under the Cruise with Confidence program, thus far, the Lift and Shift option, which allows guests to simply ‘lift and shift’ their sailing to the same itinerary departing on a future date (most likely in the same month as the previous year), has seen two-thirds of the bookings for 2021 focused on Europe, while 75 percent of guest’s Future Cruise Credit has been used for Europe-focused itineraries. To view all of the benefits, please click here.

Highlights of Azamara’s most popular sailings are included below:  

For travelers looking to explore iconic Italy, Azamara’s 7-Night Italy Intensive Voyage, beginning April 24, 2021, will provide access to the region’s most beloved destinations. Starting in Monte-Carlo – home to the legendary Grand Casino and the opulent Royal Palace – Azamara Journey® will then make it way to Santa Margherita, in which guests can discover Castello di Santa Margherita, a castle built in 1550 by the Republic of Genoa as a defense against pirate attacks, or stroll the main city square – Piazza Mazzini – which is lined with colorful palaces. Additional highlights include stops on the Amalfi Coast, where travelers can live la dolce vita in the land of limoncello, and end in Rome to admire Michelangelo’s masterwork or walks the steps of gladiators at the Coliseum.

Setting sail on September 9, 2021, the 10-night France Intensive Voyage will provide a total of four overnights in ports such as Honfleur, Paris, Nantes and Bordeaux, where guests can pay a visit to Pauillac, Sauternes, Margaux, and Saint-Émilion to learn wine production, and of course sample as glass or two. The itinerary’s late nights will take place in Cherbourg, where travelers could explore the gothic architecture and quirky, cool art installations, as well as Saint-Malo, located in Brittany and previously known as a stronghold for privateers (pirates approved by the king).

Aboard Azamara’s 12-night Greek Intensive Voyage – departing on October 13, 2021 – the immersive itinerary will take guests to 11 ports around Greece with five-late nights and conclude in Athens, where the ship will offer one overnight. Highlights of the itinerary include exploring Mykonos’ sun-bleached houses with beautiful blue shutters, vibrant bougainvillea, and 16th-century Venetian windmills; the Thessaloniki, the cultural capital of Greece; and Rhodes, where guests will be transported back to the days of the Byzantine Empire from walking the cobblestoned Street of the Knights.

Azamara Experiences High Demand for 2021 European Sailings | 20

Azamara Is?

Azamara is an upmarket cruise line and the leader in Destination Immersion, with three mid-sized ships sailing to all seven continents of the world. The boutique-style ships allow them to reach marquee ports around the world and dock in smaller less-visited hidden gems. Azamara’s commitment to creating immersive experiences for travelers to connect with local cultures, allows guests to travel deeper with longer stays, more overnights, and night touring.  Guests can experience a boutique hotel at sea with inclusive amenities such as gratuities, beverages, AzAmazing Evenings – an exclusive, bespoke evening designed specifically for Azamara guests to immerse themselves in their destination, and more. Until your next cruise, you can click here to see a list of new slot sites in the UK.

Carnival Announces Two Ships Have Been Sold Along With Other Fleet Changes

By
John Shallo
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The 70,000-ton Carnival Fantasy operates year-round five-, six- and seven-day voyages from Charleston, S.C. Photo by Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line has announced new plans for its fleet that will generate tremendous guest excitement once it resumes sailing, with a confirmed date for an additional Excel-class, LNG-powered ship arriving in November 2022, four ships either sold or put on long term lay-up status, and other ships redeployed to new homeports, as it seeks to leverage its strong network of year-round and seasonal homeports in the U.S. with upgraded offerings.  The highlights of the plan include:

As part of Carnival’s 50th birthday in 2022, a November 2022 delivery date for the unnamed, second Excel-class ship has been confirmed from the Meyer Turku shipyard. The sister ship to Mardi Gras will showcase many of her features, including BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, and sail out of PortMiami as previously announced. Carnival said it will open the ship for sale this fall and guests can register to be the “first to know” about the ship’s itineraries and special open for sale promotions at www.carnival.com/ship2022.

In addition, Carnival Corporation’s recent announcement to reduce its overall fleet capacity and focus on ships with upgraded features, Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Inspiration have been sold.  Carnival Fascination and Carnival Imagination will move to a long term lay-up status, with no specific timeline identified for a return to operation.

Carnival Sensation
The Carnival Sensation will move from Miami to Mobile and take up itineraries previously assigned to Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Fascination

The Carnival Sensation will move from Miami to Mobile and take up itineraries previously assigned to Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Fascination, with guests on those two ships being re-accommodated on Carnival Sensation.

Carnival Sunrise will move from Port Everglades to PortMiami and assume the itineraries previously operated by Carnival Sensation, providing a larger, upgraded ship for short itineraries with the many new features installed during Carnival Sunrise’s $200 million transformation completed in 2019.  Guests booked on the Sunrise 4- and 5-day itineraries from Port Everglades will be automatically moved to sailings from PortMiami.

Carnival Sunrise is part of Carnival’s 50th birthday celebration and there will be no changes to her birthday sailing, which is scheduled for March 5, 2022.  These special sailings have been in high demand and will feature special entertainment, at-sea ship rendezvous and onboard activities and offerings.  For more information on this special group of itineraries in March 2022, please visit www.carnival.com/sailabration.

Further, Carnival Fascination itineraries from San Juan and Barbados have been cancelled for 2020-2021 as the cruise line focuses its return to operations on mainland drive markets in the U.S.

Itineraries for Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration from Long Beach have been cancelled through Apr. 19, 2021.  Carnival Panorama will continue to operate 7-day cruises from Long Beach while Carnival Miracle will operate shorter itineraries from San Diego to Baja Mexico.

Carnival Radiance will now move directly from Europe after its $200 million transformation and homeport in Long Beach in April of 2021, where it will assume the short Baja Mexico itineraries previously served by Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration.  Guests booked on Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration after April 22, 2021 will be re-accommodated on Carnival Radiance, where they will experience the host of upgrades and new features including Shaq’s Big Chicken Restaurant and an expanded waterpark popular with families sailing with children.

Separately, Carnival also notified its Australian guests that it has extended its pause of operations in that country, and has canceled six cruises scheduled to operate between Sept. 25 and Oct. 29, 2020.

“We have used this pause in operations to think carefully about our fleet and to build a plan that gives our guests new choices and upgrades to current ship offerings,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We have a great variety of ships across the Carnival Cruise Line fleet and we are thrilled to have been able to confirm a delivery date ahead of what we had anticipated for our second Excel ship, which is exciting news for guests interested in sailing from PortMiami on the sister ship to Mardi Gras!  At the same time, we will continue to invest in the four remaining Fantasy class ships that we are keeping in the fleet.  We have many guests who prefer our Fantasy class ships which work so well for shorter itineraries from smaller ports that cannot accommodate our larger ships.  With a fleet that gives guests lots of choices in ships, homeports, destinations and features including a multitude of dining, entertainment and accommodation choices, we are very excited about the future for Carnival Cruise Line.”

Guests and travel agents are being notified directly about impacted sailings, guest re-accommodations and cancellations. Duffy thanked guests and travel agent partners alike for their continued patience, loyalty and support during this unprecedented time for the cruise industry. “With our future fleet plan resolved, we are focused on ensuring we are ready to return to operations once it is determined that the time is right to resume cruising in the U.S.,” she said.

Royal Caribbean Group Introduces Muster 2.0 Reinventing Cruise Safety Drills

By
John Shallo
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Royal Caribbean Group is replacing one of the least-loved but most important parts of a cruise vacation – the safety drill – with Muster 2.0™, an entirely new approach to delivering safety information to guests. The innovative program, the first of its kind, reimagines a process originally designed for large groups of people into a faster, more personal approach that encourages higher levels of safety. View Muster 2.0™ as PDF by Clicking Here.

Royal Caribbean Group's Muster 2.0
Royal Caribbean Group Introduces Muster 2.0 And Reinvents Cruise Safety Drills

With Muster 2.0, the key elements of the safety drill – including reviewing what to expect and where to go in case of an emergency, and instructions on how to properly use a life jacket – will be accessible to guests on an individual basis instead of a group approach that has been followed historically. New technology, eMuster™, will be used to help provide the information to guests via their mobile devices and interactive stateroom TVs. Travelers will be able to review the information at their own time prior to setting sail, eliminating the need for the traditional large group assemblies. The new approach also enables everyone on board to maintain better spacing as guests move about the ship, and it allows guests to enjoy more of their vacation with no interruption.

After reviewing safety information individually, guests will complete the drill by visiting their assigned assembly station, where a crew member will verify that all steps have been completed and answer questions. Each of the steps will need to be completed prior to the ship’s departure, as required by international maritime law.

“The health and safety of our guests and crew are our number one priority, and the development of this new muster process is an elegant solution to an outdated, unpopular process,” said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “The fact that this will also save guests time and allow the ship to operate without pause means that we can increase health, safety and guest satisfaction simultaneously.”

“Muster 2.0 represents a natural extension of our mission to improve our guests’ vacation experiences by removing points of friction,” said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean Group’s senior vice president of digital. “In this instance, what’s most convenient for our guests is also the safest option in light of needing to reimagine social spaces in the wake of COVID-19.

First Major Change In A Decade

This marks the first dramatic change to the safety drill process in a decade since Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas moved the life jackets from guest staterooms to the muster stations, which improved the evacuation process and has been widely followed throughout the industry. More than a year in the making, Muster 2.0 is also an initiative that will be part of the comprehensive set of protocols and procedures Royal Caribbean Group is developing along with the Healthy Sail Panel that was recently assembled in collaboration with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“This new process represents the kind of innovation that the Healthy Sail Panel is focusing on as part of its mission to enhance the health and safety of cruising,” said former Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt, co-chair of the Healthy Sail Panel. “It shows that we can accomplish a lot if we try to think outside the box on safety.”

“I’d like to extend my congratulations to Royal Caribbean Group on this innovative milestone. It’s exactly what our industry needs during these unprecedented times and we appreciate the generous offer to participate in this innovation,” said Frank Del Rio, President and CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “In this industry, we all work cooperatively to enhance health and safety, and this is an example of that.”

The distributed muster for ocean-going vessels concept is patented in the United States and is patent-pending in major markets around the world, including the various cruise industry flag states. The company has also worked with international regulators, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other maritime and government authorities to ensure it meets all safety requirements.

Available To Other Cruise Lines

In addition to introducing the new process on the ships of its own cruise lines – Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara – Royal Caribbean Group is offering to license the patented technology to interested cruise operators and will waive patent license fees during the time the world and industry battle the global pandemic. Patent licenses have already been granted to the company’s joint venture, TUI Cruises GmbH, as well as Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., the parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Muster 2.0 was first tested on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas in January 2020. Guests who took part in the mock process indicated a strong preference for the new approach and also reported better comprehension and retention of the safety information.

Emerald Waterways Opens Booking For 2021 Russian River Cruise Season

By
John Shallo
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Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg and Griboedov canal, Russia

Itineraries Feature Newly Chartered Ship and an Extra Day in St. Petersburg

Emerald Waterways river cruise line has opened its books on the 2021 Russian river cruise season. Sailings will feature a newly chartered river-ship, the recently refurbished MS Nizhny Novgorod, built specifically to sail Russia’s waterways including Europe’s longest river, the Volga. Featuring two itineraries, sailings onboard the MS Nizhny Novgorod begin in May 2021 and are available for booking now. Details and pricing are available in the newly launched brochure available for download.

The 11-day Imperial Charms of Russia river cruise allows guests to discover both traditional villages and vibrant cities as they sail from St. Petersburg to Moscow. Highlights include a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of St. Petersburg, a Shashlik lunch in the picturesque village of Mandrogi, a visit to the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake, and a guided tour of Moscow exploring the iconic Kremlin Grounds. New for 2021, guests can choose the reverse 12-day itinerary for an extra day in St. Petersburg at the end of the sailing, which allows for a visit to Peterhof to take in its jaw-dropping collection of gilded fountains and picturesque canals.

MS Nizhny Novgorod
MS Nizhny Novgorod

MS Nizhny Novgorod

The MS Nizhny Novgorod, which was refurbished in 2019, offers a selection of on-board amenities including the Volga restaurant serving Russian-influenced dining and the Panorama Bar offering stunning views of the passing scenery. Guests have the choice of three cabin styles—Suite, Double Deluxe Cabin and Twin Cabin—all equipped with large windows for enjoying the view at any time of the day.

Guests booking any 2021 departure of either Volga itinerary will receive a free, round-trip flights to Russia. In lieu of flights, guests can opt to receive a discount of $1,000 USD on the cost of the sailing. Additionally, guests paying in full within fourteen days of booking will receive an early payment savings of $250 per person. Offer expires August 31, 2020.

Emerald Waterways Enters New Waters with its First Ocean Yacht, Emerald Azzurra, to Debut in 2021
Emerald Waterways Enters New Waters with its First Ocean Yacht, Emerald Azzurra,
to Debut in 2021

Emerald Cruises

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’ Choice Awards for five years running.

For more information visit  Emerald Waterways’ website at www.emeraldwaterways.com

Viking Announces 2021-2022 World Cruise

By
John Shallo
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New 136-Day Itinerary Visits 27 Countries and 56 Ports, Including Overnights in 11 Cities

Viking® has announced its new 2021-2022 Viking World Cruise, which will span 136 days, 27 countries and 56 ports, with overnight stays in 11 iconic cities. Setting sail on December 24, 2021, from Fort Lauderdale, the itinerary will include three new ports of call for Viking, including Phillip Island and Eden, Australia, as well as Yangon, Myanmar.

Sailing on Viking’s award-winning 930-guest Viking Star®, the epic voyage will explore ports of call in Central America; transit through the Panama Canal; journey up the West Coast of North America before crossing the Pacific Ocean and calling upon Hawaii; traverse New Zealand and Australia; and sail through Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean before concluding in London. Guests may also choose a shorter, 119-day portion of the sailing, 2022 Viking World Horizons, which departs from Los Angeles on January 10, 2022 and visits 22 countries and 49 ports before ending in London. All Viking World Cruise guests will also receive the complimentary option to remain on board for three additional days and disembark in the ship’s homeport of Bergen, Norway.

“For more than 20 years, we have been committed to providing our guests with immersive and culturally enriching experiences while traveling the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “This has been an unusual year for all travelers, but we remain focused on the future and are pleased to offer our guests a new destination-focused World Cruise that allows for extensive exploration in 2021-2022.”

2021-2022 Viking World Cruise Highlights

The newest Viking World Cruise itinerary visits iconic cities and ports of call in one seamless itinerary. Overnight stays in 11 iconic cities allow guests to explore further in Yangon, Myanmar; Auckland, New Zealand; Singapore, Singapore; Mumbai, India; Luxor, Egypt; Haifa, Israel; and Istanbul, Turkey. While onboard, Viking offers cultural enrichment through onboard lectures and entertainment, such as Viking’s Resident Historian® program, which provides guests with a high-level historical and cultural education specific to their journey. Highlights of the new 2021-2022 Viking World Cruise itinerary include:

  • Phillip Island, Australia (NEW Viking Port): Guests will enjoy some of Australia’s most dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife including the island’s famed Little Penguins. At sunset each evening on Summerland Beach, the Little Penguins return to shore and guests can watch them waddle in procession safely from elevated viewing points.
  • Eden, Australia (NEW Viking Port): Set in Twofold Bay, the town of Eden was once home to Australia’s whaling industry. Guests will explore today’s Eden and the Sapphire Coast, which is now famed for its conservation efforts protecting the whale population.
  • Yangon, Myanmar (NEW Viking Port): Guests will experience three days in Yangon, Myanmar, which was once the British colony known as Burma. In Myanmar’s largest city, guests may visit the Shwedagon Paya, a golden monument and one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites, explore the colonial architecture or take in the beautiful scenery. From magnificent temples, the floating villages of Inle Lake and the royal city of Mandalay, there are activities for everyone during this port of call.
  • Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii: Guests can enjoy everything from historic landmarks to world-class shopping on the island of Oahu. Soak up the sun along Waikiki Beach’s pristine beaches or visit Pearl Harbor to see where the tragic events of December 7, 1941 unfolded.
  • Komodo Island, Indonesia: Guests will enjoy a day ashore visiting Komodo National Park and the Tamarind Woods, home to the famed Komodo dragon. Beyond wildlife viewing, guests will have an opportunity to explore and play at Pink Beach, so called for the rose-hued coral sand.
  • London (Tilbury), England: Guests will end their sailing in the allowing easy access to the regal capital’s iconic sights, including the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Viking Star's Pool
Viking Star’s Pool

Viking Star

Today’s announcement follows the recent news that Viking was voted a #1 Ocean Cruise Line for the fifth consecutive year by Travel + Leisure readers. Viking Star is part of the award-winning fleet of sister ships, which also includes Viking Sea®, Viking Sky®, Viking Sun®, Viking Orion® and Viking Jupiter®, each with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests. The company’s seventh 930-guest ocean ship Viking Venus® is scheduled to debut in early 2021. Viking’s ocean fleet features a modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces, and attention to detail. Highlights include:

  • All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from 270 sq. ft. Veranda Staterooms, all with private verandas, sweeping views of the destination and premium amenities that include king-size beds with luxury linens, generously proportioned closets, large interactive flat-screen LCD TVs with movies-on-demand, free Wi-Fi and award-winning bathrooms with large showers, premium Freyja® bath products, and heated floors.
  • Explorer Suites: The ships feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. With expansive views from wraparound private verandas, as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category onboard, Explorer Suites offer the ultimate sanctuary for World Cruise guests.
  • Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.
  • LivNordic Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa onboard is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air. Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2017 named it one of the “5 best cruise ship spas.”
  • Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s: Share a cocktail with friends. Linger over a Norwegian breakfast and a nautical history book. The Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s gourmet deli are thoughtful spaces located at the bow of the ship and designed to represent the Scandinavian spirit for complete relaxation and for marveling at sweeping views through double-height windows.
  • The Wintergarden: Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden. In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service.
  • Dining Choices: Viking’s ships offer eight dining options, all with no additional charge or fee—from fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and a variety of culinary options, and the World Café, which features international fare and regional specialties including a sushi and seafood cold bar—to intimate alternative dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and Manfredi’s, which features freshly prepared pastas and Italian favorites. The Pool Grill specializes in gourmet burgers, while afternoon tea and scones are available in the Wintergarden. Mamsen’s serves Norwegian deli-style fare, and complimentary 24-hour room service allows all guests to enjoy many signature dishes in the comfort of their stateroom. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ocean ships offer the most al fresco dining at sea. Additionally, The Kitchen Table specializes in regional dishes from market to table.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Viking experiences from ship to shore are designed for unparalleled access and cultural enrichment. Viking Resident Historians deliver high-level historical and cultural education specific to the journey, offering invaluable insight into the rich history of the destination. Guest Lecturers who are experts in their fields shed light on the destination’s art, architecture, music, geopolitics, natural world and more. Destination Performances represent the most iconic cultural performing arts of the region—whether it be Italian opera or Portuguese fado. Resident Classical Musicians—pianists, guitarists, violinists and flautists—perform classical compositions throughout the ships. And Culinary Classes in The Kitchen Table, Viking’s onboard cooking school, focus on regional cuisine.
  • Nordic Inspiration: Even the smallest details take their inspiration from the exploratory spirit of the original Vikings, reflecting deeply held Nordic traditions. Light wood grains, touches of slate and teak, Swedish limestone and fragrant juniper appear throughout the public spaces and Spa. The Clinker-built design of the Viking Bar mirrors the construction style of the original Viking Longships. A Viking Heritage Center provides history and context from the Viking Age. And characters from Norse Mythology are subtly incorporated into the design, providing curious guests with inspiration to further explore Viking’s Nordic heritage.
  • Sustainable Features: Designed to be environmentally friendly, Viking’s ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hull and bow for maximum fuel efficiency and equipment that reduces exhaust pollution and meets the strictest worldwide environmental regulations.

Booking Details

Pricing for the 2021-2022 Viking World Cruise starts at $49,995 per person and 2022 World Cruise Horizons starts at $45,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Both of Viking’s new world cruise itineraries include Business Class international air, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, complimentary visa services, the Silver Spirits Beverage Package, and free luggage shipping services for embarkation. Guests who book between now and September 30, 2020, will receive an additional $2,000 per person in shore excursion credit for any optional land programs and $1,000 per person in shipboard credit which can be used toward optional tours, spa services, onboard shops and beverages. Viking Explorer Society members who book the 2021-2022 Viking World Cruise or 2022 World Cruise Horizons through September 30, 2020 will receive an additional $1,000 in shipboard credit per person. Both voyages will also have a limited time period with a reduced deposit at booking.

For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com.

AmaWaterways Pioneers River Cruising’s Return

By
John Shallo
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AmaKristina
AmaKristina

AmaWaterways announced today it has resumed operations in Europe with a series of charter sailings onboard AmaKristina in Germany with local guests.  As the first U.S.-based river cruise line to resume sailings, the company continues to pioneer innovation in river cruising, warmly welcoming guests while implementing the newly enhanced health and safety protocols onboard its award-winning ships.

“As the proud Godmother of our award-winning AmaKristina, I am honored that she was our very first river cruise ship to set sail in Europe this summer,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Although many countries continue to have travel restrictions in place, we have begun operating a series of sailings for European guests, in collaboration with an established German tour operator, e-hoi.  With these sailings, we have been able to put into practice and perfect our enhanced health and safety protocols while demonstrating that travelers can enjoy our unforgettable river cruise vacations with peace of mind.”

New Health and Safety Protocols

AmaWaterways’ new procedures reflect the in-depth recommendations contained within the EU Healthy Gateways guidelines, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), IG RiverCruise, and other official authorities. The health and safety protocols are aimed to protect guests’ and crew members’ wellbeing while delivering the warm and friendly experience for which AmaWaterways is known. Based on current regulations, pre-boarding health questionnaires are required, and guests and crew are both subject to daily temperature checks. The crew has received in-depth updated training and each ship will have a designated Public Health Officer overseeing the application of these specific protocols.

Ship Capacity Limited

While AmaWaterways’ state-of-the-art ships are spacious in their own right — normally accommodating just 150 guests — current regulations limit all river cruise ships to a maximum of 100 guests onboard.  Crews are required to wear face coverings at all times while guests must wear them only while moving around the ship. With capacity currently capped, the spacious Main restaurant and the included specialty restaurant, The Chef’s Table, easily accommodate the safe distances now required. New room service options have also been added. In addition, AmaWaterways has incorporated creative ways to accommodate social distancing not only in its lounge areas, with plexiglass dividers, but also with personal portable Quietvox commentary systems to allow guests to hear guides while social distancing during the included small-group shore excursions – many of which involve outdoor hiking and biking tours. Furthermore, AmaWaterways’ ships have been designed with fan coil individual air cooling and heating units, which eliminate any recirculation of air in staterooms or in public areas; and nearly all staterooms include fresh air balconies, letting guests relax there or on the ships’ spacious Sun Decks as they enjoy stunning views along the river.

“Since we started AmaWaterways 18 years ago, we’ve been passionate about creating luxurious, authentic, and inspiring river cruises for every traveler,” continued Karst. “The personal connections and warm service experienced during an AmaWaterways river cruise remain as important as ever to us, and the new health and safety protocols just add additional peace of mind for our guests while onboard.”

For more information on health and safety protocols, visit  www.amawaterways.com/protocols. To book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred Travel Advisor, visit AmaWaterways.com or call 1.800.626.0126.

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ New Website Inspires Adventures for Future Travel

By
John Shallo
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New AtlasOceanVoyages.com Reveals Never-seen-before Accommodations Renderings for New, Safe and Small Expedition Ship Launching in July 2021

With its highly anticipated, new, luxury expedition ship, World Navigator, on schedule to launch in a year’s time, Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled its brand-new website to help inspire adventurers as they look forward to future travel. AtlasOceanVoyages.com delivers important information with vivid and engaging imagery and video clips to help travelers envision a future journey-of-a-lifetime with Atlas Ocean Voyages. Visitors can find valuable information they need to plan for a 2021/22 Atlas Ocean Voyages all-inclusive, luxury expedition, as well as view new renderings of World Navigator’s simply elegant shipboard accommodations. To experience Atlas Ocean Voyages’ website, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

Atlas Ocean Voyages' New Website
Atlas Ocean Voyages’ New Website

“A quality website is a customer service requirement and business necessity in the current environment, and our new AtlasOceanVoyages.com visualizes our unique luxe-adventure style while delivering valuable information to adventurers and like-spirited travelers,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Travelers can bring some of the world’s most compelling experiences into their homes through our website and plan for a future journey-of-a-lifetime with Atlas Ocean Voyages. We’re looking forward to welcoming guests aboard our new, safe and small, clean and green, luxurious small ship, World Navigator, when she inaugurates our distinctive adventures in captivating global destinations in July 2021.”

AtlasOceanVoyages.com visitors can begin their virtual, luxe-adventure journey by selecting among a mosaic of global destinations where World Navigator will sail during her inaugural 2021/22 year. Each destination tile unveils a short video clip crowning the collection of captivating itineraries scheduled in the Holy Land, Black, Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas, South America, and Antarctica. Each itinerary page is accompanied by a detailed overview, including the history, culture, and attractions and highlights of each port-of-call. Port collectors can also use the website’s Itinerary Search Engine on the homepage to instantly identify the itineraries that feature those out-of-the-way ports to cross off their lists.

“We are excited and proud to reveal our beautiful, new website,” said Brandon Townsley, Vice President of Sales and Trade Partnerships for Atlas Ocean Voyages. “AtlasOceanVoyages.com is also a quick reference and great resource for our valued travel advisor partners. A Keywords Search Tool at the top-right corner of each page puts all of our information at Travel Advisors’ fingertips, while World Navigator’s brochures, itineraries, deck plans and floor plans are all easily accessible and downloadable to quickly serve their clients when planning an unforgettable, future adventure-of-a-lifetime.”

Travelers and travel advisors can explore World Navigator through AtlasOceanVoyages.com’s easy-to-navigate and downloadable deck plan, linking to new renderings of the ship’s suites and staterooms, where travelers can envision themselves ensconced in simple elegance. A new, dedicated Offers page keeps travelers up to date on savings, value-added packages, and promotions. Travel Advisors also have an enhanced dedicated page where they can easily register themselves or their agencies and submit requests for customized information.

Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator
Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Navigator

All-Inclusive Luxury

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand defined by simple elegance and delivers authentic, thrilling, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions and adventures in the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations. Adventurers, explorers, and like-spirited travelers will find community aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ safe, small, all-inclusive luxury expedition ships and revel in welcoming and lively venues to share their day’s exploits. Guests indulge in one of 98 luxe suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private balcony. All Atlas Ocean Voyages journeys include complimentary round-trip air travel from select U.S. and Canada gateways; prepaid gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; a free shore excursion in select ports on every itinerary; international gourmet dining; and onboard binoculars, coffee and tea service, and butler service in suites.

Explore The World Safely

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.

Sustainable Exploration

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 hybrid power management and propulsion system that maximizes fuel efficiency while 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

 

Hotel Industry Releases Top Five Requirements To Travel Safely

By
John Shallo
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Hotel Door
Hotel Door

Face Coverings, Physical Distancing to be Standardized at Hotels

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has released the “Safe Stay Guest Checklist” for guests on how to travel safely while also creating a standardized safety experience nationwide. This checklist is part of AHLA’s Safe Stay guidelines, an industry-wide, enhanced set of health and safety protocols designed to provide a safe and clean environment for all hotel guests and employees.

Safe Stay Guest Checklist
Safe Stay Guest Checklist”

The Safe Stay Guest Checklist includes:

  1. Require face coverings in all indoor public spaces and practice social distancing in all common areas.
  2. Choose contactless options, where available, including online reservations, check-ins, and payments.
  3. Consider daily room cleaning, only if necessary. Ask the hotel about your options.
  4. Request contactless room service delivery.
  5. Refrain from traveling if you have, or recently had, any symptoms of COVID-19 or contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.

“The top priority for the hotel industry is the health and safety of guests and employees. Utilizing these best practices, including requiring face coverings and practicing social distancing in public spaces, will create an even safer environment for all our guests and employees,” said Chip Rogers, President and CEO of AHLA. “As an industry, we want every guest to experience a clean and safe hotel no matter where they stay. We applaud governors who have standardized the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces and we urge all lawmakers to help make this a national standard by implementing this requirement in their states. These preventative measures make it safer and easier for Americans to travel while also supporting hotel and tourism employees.”

Arne Sorenson, CEO, Marriott International said, “The health and safety of associates and guests has always been a top priority at Marriott. Part of our Commitment to Clean is that we’re redefining our cleaning and safety standards to align with evolving expert protocols as we all work together to manage the spread of COVID-19.  Health guidance is clear on wearing masks and it is a simple step everyone can take when in public spaces of hotels to protect themselves, each other and associates. We’re pleased to join with the industry to create consistency and collectively support our communities so we all can travel more safely.”

Jonathan Tisch, Chairman & CEO, Loews Hotels & Co. said, “The travel & tourism industry is rooted in partnerships. As an industry we need to work and align together and AHLA’s Safe Stay Guidelines is an opportunity to do just that. As hotel operators and owners, we have a role and responsibility to provide a welcoming, safe and comfortable environment for team members, guests and our communities, and now more than ever we need to ensure we are exceeding expectations in this area.”

To further expand the hotel industry’s Safe Stay initiative, AHLA also recently launched COVID-19 Precautions for Hotels, an online course developed in partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) to help hotels train their staffs on the enhanced safety and cleanliness guidelines.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the sole national association representing all segments of the U.S. lodging industry and contributes nearly $660 billion to U.S. GDP.

Learn more at www.ahla.com.

Joyeuse Bastille: Celebrate with Scenic’s Hand-Crafted France Itineraries

By
John Shallo
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Scenic Sapphire in Avignon
Scenic Sapphire in Avignon

Two new itineraries focus on France’s culinary delights – Michelin cooking, wines and more

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is making it easy to say bonjour to France in 2021, offering a season full of new opportunities. The luxury cruise line is unveiling a new selection of exclusive experiences featuring immersive art exhibitions, classical music masterpieces, and acapella performances, as well as gastronomic delights, providing guests with a truly unique and exclusive river cruise – and as always, truly all-inclusive.

Booking Incentives

Guests booking by August 14, 2020, receive complimentary pre-cruise overnight stays; a city tour of Paris, Lyon or Bordeaux (itinerary dependent) in a classic Citroën 2CV car (two guests per vehicle); transfers between airport, hotel and ship; free flights (economy-level on 8- to 10-day sailings or $1,200 savings per guest; premium level on cruises of 11 or more days or $1,800 savings per guest); and a free Book with Confidence program that offers guests additional flexibility and includes Deposit Protection (value $125) and reduced deposits. An additional Early Payment Discount of $350 per person is available on 2021 bookings paid in full within 14 days of booking.

New Itineraries

Scenic is introducing two new 11-day French culinary cruises in 2021 featuring outstanding gastronomic experiences, including an onboard dinner prepared by Michelin star chef Didier Goiffon and a cooking class at three-star Michelin chef Georges Blanc’s restaurant. Guests on Flavours of Bordeaux spend a one-night pre-cruise stay at the Intercontinental Bordeaux*, tour Bordeaux in a Citroën 2CV, enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the immersive digital art exhibition, Les Bassins de Lumières, set inside Bordeaux’s former submarine base, learn about and indulge in the Grand Cru wines of Sauternes, the French aperitif, Lillet, and the wines of Médoc, and spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, accompanied by a tasting of Rémy Martin. Tastes of Southern France guests overnight at Sofitel Bordeaux* pre-cruise and enjoy a tour of Lyon in the Citroën before sailing. Along the route, guests join an exclusive interactive workshop at the Valrhona Cité du Chocolate museum, after it has closed for the day, take in an exclusive classical concert in the Grand Tinel Room of the Palais des Papas, learn about truffle farming from local truffle farmers and their specially trained dog, and indulge in some of the best vintages of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. Prices start at $6,695 per person, double, for either cruise.

Guests joining Scenic’s 11-day Beautiful Bordeaux ($6,195) or eight-day Bordeaux Affair ($4,495) can explore Bordeaux in the Citroën 2CV while staying one night at the Intercontinental Bordeaux*. During the cruise, guests will be immersed in French culture, wines and foods, and take in an evening of unforgettable classical music during an exclusive concert at the 13th-century Château d’Agassac, set in the spectacular surrounds of the Médoc countryside.

The 11-day South of France and eight-day Idyllic Rhône cruises put guests in the Sofitel Bordeaux* for one pre-cruise night and takes them on a tour of Lyon in a classic Citroën 2CV car. Among a long list of highlights on the South of France, the itinerary is an exclusive breathtaking acapella performance in Trinity Chapel, while both cruises include an exclusive performance at a Gala dinner at the Palais des Papes in Avignon. Starting prices run $6,495 and $5,095 per person, double, respectively.

Guests on Scenic’s eight-day Highlights of Normandy & the Seine ($4,695) and 11-day Normandy & Gems of the Seine ($6,395) itineraries can look forward to a serene cruise directly into the English Channel port of Honfleur – one of few lines that able to dock within the city. Besides a complimentary pre-cruise stay at the Hilton Opera Paris* and tour of Paris in the Citroën, guests are treated to an exclusive classical concert performed by the region’s top musicians in Vernon’s Château de La Roche-Guyon, overlooking the river and the small village bearing the same name.

Scenic’s Award-Winning History

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has grown over its 34-year history to include award-winning, all-inclusive river, and ocean cruises and handcrafted land tours that take participants to many of the world’s most fascinating destinations. Since 2008, Scenic has offered river cruises in Europe, SE Asia, Russia, and Egypt on its 15 Space-Ships. In 2019, Scenic introduced the world’s first luxury Discovery Yacht, the 228-guest Scenic Eclipse. Sister brand Emerald Cruises has eight (soon to be nine with the 2021 launch of Emerald Luna) Star-Ships offering sailings on European rivers and Southeast Asia’s Mekong River. In 2021, the Emerald Azzurra will be the first yacht to launch under the Emerald Cruises brand – a 100-guest superyacht that will ply the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Red seas.

For more information visit www.scenicusa.com or phone 844-788-7985.

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line Will Resume Sailings October 1st, 2020

By
John Shallo
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Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line is resuming daily departures from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line is resuming daily departures from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has announced an extended delay to the resumption of its sailing operations. The official statement, delivered by Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line CEO Oneil Khosa, is as follows:

“As you know, we recently announced that we would finally return to sea this August – offering travelers the chance to enjoy a much-needed, two-night getaway to paradise. However, given the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) extension of its No Sail Order, we have no choice but to delay our resumption of cruise operations to October 1st, 2020.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, we have remained one of the few cruise lines that reported no cases of the virus onboard our ships. We have also followed all required guidelines, including adhering to strict requirements for our onboard crew members, and installed the best safety protocols in the industry across our fleet to protect our guests and crew, who are always our top priority. In addition, we remain the only cruise line in the country to receive “green status” from the CDC on our No Sail Response plan, meaning we have met their requirements in providing a safe environment for our crew members to work and disembark via commercial travel. This was also recognized in the CDC’s own statement.

While we are disappointed that we are not able to sail as planned, we will of course continue to work side by side with the CDC and have therefore suspended all future sailings until October 1st. We are also aware of the recent announcement from Bahamas Prime Minister Hubert Munnis regarding the travel ban on travelers from the U.S., and we are prepared to make necessary changes to our sailing schedule, as needed. Until then, we will continue our preparations to return to Grand Bahama Island while keeping a close eye on the overall landscape. We look forward to welcoming guests back onboard and appreciate everyone’s patience throughout this process.”

For information on the cruise line or to book a cruise, visit www.BahamasParadiseCruise.com.

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