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Five Exotic Cruises to Put on Your Wish List

By
John Roberts
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M/V Silver Explorer
The Silver Explorer enters the Lemaire Channel on the Antarctic Peninsula, 2012.

Certain destinations around the world are so fascinatingly different or strikingly unique that they deserve special recognition among travelers. The lands conjure images of romance and adventure because they are so far away and geologically distinctive or the people living in the regions offer inspiring histories and cultural traditions that we can explore by visiting there. 

Many of these thrilling places are best reached by cruise ships, too. Here are the five top exotic cruises you should put on your wish list.

Antarctica 

Cruises to the bottom of the earth let you see the White Continent in safety and style. Expedition cruises to Antarctica include a definite sense of adventure as you spend time amid an interesting array of creatures who make their homes in this harsh yet beautiful environment.  

Most Antarctica cruise itineraries offer pre- or post-cruise time in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and will embark from Ushuaia, Argentina. These expeditions feature photography workshops and Zodiac tours to get ashore to see the wildlife up close. You also might get the chance for hiking and sea kayaking.  

Wildlife is most active during the summer months on the continent (our winter in North America), and animals on display include whales, seals, penguins and a broad variety of seabirds. 

Five Exotic Cruises to Put on Your Wish List | 23
Paul Gauguin Cruises is the industry leader for journeys throughout French Polynesia.

French Polynesia 

The islands in French Polynesia, which include popular cruise destinations of Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and Taha’a, are a lush and balmy paradise. The region features more than 115 volcanic islands and atolls spread out in the South Pacific Ocean. It’s quite the plane ride to reach this magical place, but so worth it. 

Paul Gauguin Cruises, Windstar Cruises and Star Clippers offer great small-ship cruises to Tahiti and the rest of the islands and are a great choice because these vessels can get into the picturesque lagoons where the larger ships can’t reach. 

Your cruise can be about relaxation, adventure or a mix of both. Itineraries feature a mix of cultural enrichment — learning about the region’s history and food — and activities that let you embrace the year-round perfect tropical conditions. 

You can spend your days on white-sand beaches, hiking forest trails and snorkeling and paddleboarding in turquoise waters that are home to pristine reefs teeming with marine creatures. Five Exotic Cruises to Put on Your Wish List | 23

Mekong River 

A Mekong River cruise is an amazing way to explore the countryside villages and the vibrant cities that are located in both Cambodia and Vietnam. The countries feature lush landscapes and fascinating histories, and cruise programs from lines such as Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways and AmaWaterways feature plenty of cultural interaction, visiting museums, temples, battlefields and farming and fishing villages along the Lower Mekong, which serves as the crucial artery of Southeast Asia. 

A Mekong River cruise requires a bit of extra preparation in order to get visas and ensure you have any vaccinations needed to protect against maladies like hepatitis and malaria. Cruises take place year-round, and temperatures are warm all year, but there is a high-water season (mid-August to November) and low-water period (December to mid-August).  

The high-water season gives cruisers access to Cambodia’s Tonle Sap lake and the floating villages that are in place at this time when cruise ships can navigate the waterway. If you cruise during the low-water season, it requires much more land travel to include the must-see city of Siem Reap, which is home to Angkor Wat, the nation’s iconic Buddhist temple complex. Mekong River cruises also will visit Phnom Penh (Cambodia’s capital) and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, as well as numerous small villages in each country. 

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A rendering of the Viking Ra on the Nile River near the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris in Kom Ombo, Egypt.

Nile River 

Egypt river cruises traverse the Nile, taking curious travelers on an unforgettable voyage through the home of one of the oldest civilizations. Nile River cruises include pre- and post-cruise land portions that may include visits to museums and bazaars in Cairo, as well as plenty of time to explore the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx.  

We took a Viking River Cruises journey on the Nile that included an extension to Jordan to see the “Rose City” of Petra. While cruising the Nile, you get to view life in the villages and cities along the banks of this vital waterway while visiting such destinations as Luxor, Aswan, the Valley of the Kings — with the ornate tombs of the pharaohs – and Abu Simbel.  Five Exotic Cruises to Put on Your Wish List | 23

Africa 

You have a couple of great options for African cruises that offer the chance to combine a bit of sailing with time at the famed wilderness parks. The big draw is the chance to explore the history and wildlife of this fascinatingly diverse continent. Cruisers head to Africa for a chance to enjoy a safari in hopes of spotting the Big Five: African elephants, rhinos, Cape buffalo, lions and leopards. 

AmaWaterways offers cruise safaris that feature time sailing on the Zambezi River on its Zambezi Queen ship, as well as a rail portion that takes you on a journey between Victoria Falls in Zambia and Cape Town and Pretoria in South Africa.  

Coastal cruises on bigger ships also allow you to enjoy safari time while visiting beaches, historic sites and inviting indigenous communities eager to show you their way of life. Top destinations on Africa cruises include Morocco, Namibia, Mozambique, South Africa, Madagascar, The Seychelles and Ghana.

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7 Canada and New England Cruise Ports that You’re Going to Love

By
John Roberts
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Canada and New England cruises
Canada and New England cruises

Cruises to Canada and New England are a wonderful way to see the fall leaves change color, spot whales and other marine creatures and immerse yourself in the rich history of the development of North America.

If you’ve had a good fill of Caribbean cruises and sailings in other parts of the world, perhaps you’ve been eyeing a new cruise destination. A cruise itinerary that visits Canada and New England might be just what you’ve been needing to change things up a bit. If by any chance you get to visit Maine there are plenty of destinations and things to do

The cruise season runs from May to October, and these sailings are especially popular from August to October to see the burst of color that the spectacular fall foliage reveals. Whale-watching season is at its height during these months, too, with the chance to see humpbacks, minke, northern right whales and other species.

Look for cruise itineraries that include any of these seven great Canada and New England cruise ports. Each of them offers distinctive activities and attractions that reveal the energy, culture and history of this amazing region of the world.

Montreal

Perhaps the most European city in all of the Americas, Montreal is a predominantly French-speaking city (but most residents do speak English, as well). Old Montreal is the historic district, with cobbled streets offering quaint shops, cafes and restaurants.

Highlights include one of Canada’s best-known churches, Notre Dame Basilica, a stunning beauty completed in 1824 and filled with stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and gold ornamentation.

Look for cruises to this port on Holland America Line’s Zaandam, Royal Caribbean’s Empress of Seas and Victory Cruise Line’s Victory II. You can also find Montreal voyages from luxury lines like Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises, Viking Cruise, Silversea, Oceania, and Windstar.

Quebec City

Located on the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City annually ranks among the best-rated cruise ports in North America. The city sits just northwest of Maine and the rest of New England and features a distinct feel of Old World Europe and the French countryside.

Highlights of this stop of New England/Canada cruises include exploring French foods like poutine and wandering the Petit-Champlain District and Place-Royale, the first French settlement in North America, which dates back four centuries. The walled fortifications of Old Quebec are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and filled with fascinating historic buildings and architecture.

St. John’s, Newfoundland

This is the easternmost city in North America and one of its oldest. Cruise stops here offer you the chance to see the first sunrise on the continent. This is a quirky place where the residents proudly embrace the island’s rugged heritage of settlers and fishing villages. Cod fishing is ingrained in the history of the island, and you’ll find it a favored delicacy on the menus. Ask a local where you can get “screeched in” — that is, welcomed as an honorary Newfoundlander in a fun ceremony.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, with scenic boat tours (be on the lookout for whales and puffins) and hiking among the most popular. Head to Signal Hill National Historic Site to find Cabot Tower and stunning views of the entire region. A pleasant hiking path leads down to Quidi Village, a historic fishing village, with a picturesque marina, restaurants and a brewery.

Halifax

This port city is rich in marine history and serves as the gateway to the Atlantic as cruise ship visit this vibrant and energetic destination after making the turn south from the Gulf of St. Lawrence and start the journey toward New England.

Ships dock at Halifax Harbour, a delightful waterfront boardwalk that bustles with activity. You’ll find the historic Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market, Garrison Brewing (a craft brewer) and dozens of restaurants, bars, and boutiques all within a stroll from your ship.

You can rent a bike or go for a boat tour in the harbor to spy marine creatures or do some lobster fishing. The city and surrounding region are home to more than 150 beautiful lighthouses, and many of them can be visited during lighthouse tours.

Bar Harbor

The port is a natural wonder and picturesque gem. Bar Harbor is nestled on a cliffside on Mount Desert Island, which is home to Acadia National Park. The city has Frenchman Bay at its face and the mountains of the park at its back. Ship’s anchor in the bay and tender passengers to the pier located in the heart of the town.

Visitors flock to Acadia, where you can explore by hike, bike or car ride. Coastal cruises, fishing outings, whale-watching tours, and kayaking adventures are also popular ways to play when visiting Bar Harbor. The destination is a seafood lover’s dream, with the legendary Maine lobster in high demand.

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Portland, Maine

The city is located on a peninsula that extends into Casco Bay. Portland’s Old Port waterfront area is located an easy stroll from your ship, and it features working fishing wharves and a mix of historic buildings and warehouses reclaimed for shops and restaurants.

The city’s West End district offers pretty Victorian homes and the Victorian Mansion, also known as the Morse-Libby House, a National Historic Landmark. Highlights or your cruise to Portland include the chance to go on tours of the six area lighthouses or a handful of the city’s dozens of craft breweries. Look for Maine Brew Bus tours to give you an in-depth look at the craft beer scene in Portland, which has been on the cutting edge for brewing since the craft craze began.

In fact, Portland has many ways to tempt your taste buds as one of the top culinary destinations in the U.S. Many of the city’s top restaurants are located near the port. Look for creative lobster dishes and fresh oyster offerings, as well as farm-to-table eateries.

Boston

A visit to Boston puts the nation’s revolutionary history at the forefront. The capital of Massachusetts is a big and busy city, but you can discover a dimension of accessible charm when arriving to its cruise port.

You can follow in the footsteps of the nation’s founding fathers and explore museums, monuments and churches, meeting houses and other significant sites along the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail in the heart of the city and close to the waterfront. Sites include Faneuil Hall, the Boston Massacre location, Paul Revere House, Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution (Old Ironsides).

Boston is also a city with a rich sports tradition, and visitors coming between May and November might have a chance to game a game or stadium tour at famed Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, or see a Celtics or Bruins game.

Boston Common is the oldest city park in the U.S. Sitting in the heart of downtown, the Common hosts numerous events, is a beautiful place to go for a walk and is surrounded by the city’s most popular streets: Tremont, Park, Beacon, Charles, and Boylston Streets. This puts you within close proximity to shops, restaurants and other activities in this buzzing city.

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Cruising on the World’s Biggest Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas is Just Different 

By
John Roberts
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Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship and a destination in its own right.

Royal Caribbean has done a brilliant job of making the cruise ship a destination in itself, especially with its Oasis-class vessels. Symphony of the Seas, launched in 2018, is the most recent evolution and is the world’s largest cruise ship. 

Able to carry more than 6,000 passengers, Symphony of the Seas boasts a range of features that make it stand out as a unique travel option. Cruise Addicts set sail on Symphony of the Seas during the annual Royal Caribbean President’s Cruise and discovered how this ship offers a unique sailing experience and why it is such a popular option for travelers who are seeking energetic getaways with friends and family. 

World’s Biggest Cruise Ship

There are dozens of mega-ships out there to choose from, and most have an impressive array of eateries, entertainment options, and onboard activities and amenities. But Symphony of the Seas and its sister ships, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas are veritable floating cities that essentially are big enough to be able to offer “something for everyone.” 

The ship is especially a draw for people who might have already visited the Caribbean cruise ports on the itinerary and aren’t looking for a deep dive into the destination. Instead, the focus is on the ship and a vacation that takes you to a sunny and warm climate while giving you a number of hassle-free options to keep you entertained onboard. 

Symphony of the Seas is surprisingly easy to get around. It’s large but well designed with seven distinct neighborhoods, all with their own special vibe. 

Cruising on the World’s Biggest Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas is Just Different  | 23
The Boardwalk neighborhood is anchored by the large Playmakers Sports Bar.

I found myself drawn to the Boardwalk, an outdoor space at the aft of the ship on Deck 6. 

This is where you’ll find Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. We indulged in the great menu of bar grub (fee), a few microbrews and games shown on 31 big-screen TVs. We were able to watch all the NFL games on Sunday in this giant bar. 

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The AquaTheater is where you can watch the dynamic show “Hiro.”

The Boardwalk also is home to the AquaTheater, which hosts live music performances, movies under the stars and, notably, the thrilling acrobatic show “Hiro” which features high-wire acts, diving, dancing and synchronized slackliners. The neighborhood also has a carousel, Johnny Rockets restaurant, Sugar Beach candy store and Boardwalk Dog House serving up hot dogs. 

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The popular America-style diner Johnny Rockets is also on the Boardwalk.

Two rock-climbing walls flank the AquaTheater area, and the Boardwalk is the landing zone for the innovative Ultimate Abyss slide that starts way up on Deck 16 and sends passengers on a thrilling 10-story drop. 

Other neighborhoods: 

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Central Park is filled with live foliage and eateries in a peaceful setting.

Cruising on the World’s Biggest Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas is Just Different  | 23Central Park is an open-air section carved into the middle of the ship on Deck 8, which is filled with restaurants and bars (Vintages, Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, Park Café and Jamie’s Italian), quiet seating spaces and thousands of live trees and plants. The Rising Tide bar travels at designated times between Central Park and down a few decks to the Royal Promenade on Deck 5.  

The Royal Promenade is the heart of the ship’s indoor activities, with music, bars, boutiques, Sorrento’s pizza, Starbucks, Café Promenade and the Bionic Bar with robot bartenders. 

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The zipline offers a quick trip over top of the Boardwalk.

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Cruising on the World’s Biggest Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas is Just Different  | 23
The Solarium pool and bar area is a peaceful adults-only retreat.

The Pool and Sports Zone features the main pool deck, hot tubs, Solarium pool area, Splashaway Bay water park for kids, the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss, two FlowRider surfing simulators, a sports court (for full-court basketball, soccer, and pickleball), mini-golf course and zipline (a short scenic ride over the top of the Boardwalk). 

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The musical “Hairspray” takes place in the Royal Theater.

Entertainment Place is home to theaters for a wide range of shows. Here, you have the Royal Theater and its signature shows “Hairspray” and “Flight: Dare to Dream” (an ode to the history of flying), The Attic (a lounge and venue for late-night comedy shows), Jazz on 4, Studio B ice rink and Casino Royale.  

Studio B offers the fast-paced skating show “1977” and is also used for the glow-in-the-dark laser-tag competition “Battle for Planet Z.” 

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Symphony of the Seas also features the Youth Zone, a large kids and teens complex and Vitality Spa and Fitness, a massive fitness center that is the match of most land-based commercial gyms. A gorgeous spa with thermal lounge (fee) is in this facility, too. 

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The Mad Hatter entertains during dinner at Wonderland.

Dining is also a huge draw for this ship with dozens of options, aside from the main dining rooms and Windjammer Café buffet eatery. In addition to the restaurants I already mentioned above, you can try Hooked, a seafood restaurant. Passengers staying in suites can enjoy meals at Coastal Kitchen. The ship also offers Wonderland, a fantastical journey in molecular gastronomy, Izumi, an Asian eatery with a sushi bar and teppanyaki room, El Loco Fresh, a fast-casual Mexican restaurant and Solarium Bistro. 

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Symphony of the Seas sails weeklong voyages to the Caribbean, and you run out of time before you can try everything onboard. You have to take a second cruise to fit it all in – and that’s just what Royal Caribbean is aiming for with this one-of-a-kind ship.

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Princess Cruises Launches Best. Sale. Ever.

By
John Shallo
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Regal Princess
Regal Princess

Cruisers making their 2020 vacation plans need to look no further than the Best. Sale. Ever. from Princess Cruises to take advantage of special fares to all must-see destinations, including Europe, Alaska, Japan, the Caribbean and more. The Best. Sale. Ever. starts December 11, 2019 and runs through February 29, 2020, and for the first time, Princess Cruises is offering guests fares that include drinks, wi-fi, and gratuities when they book a cruise or cruise tour.

Sample Best. Sale. Ever. cruise fares include
Coral Princess

Available on sailings three days and longer, departing in April 2020 and later, the Best. Sale. Ever. offer includes can’t miss offerings valued at $95/day, such as:

Sample Best. Sale. Ever. cruise fares include:

  • Regal Princess 12-day British Isles (with Copenhagen Overnight) cruises, roundtrip London (Southampton) – $2,359 interior; $2,979 balcony
  • Sky Princess 11-day Scandinavia & Russia cruises, roundtrip Copenhagen – $2,399 interior; $2,849 balcony
  • Royal Princess seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruises, from Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (Whittier) – $899 interior; $1,539 balcony
  • Grand Princess 10-night Alaska Cruisetour, from Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage – $1,149 interior; $1,949 balcony
  • Diamond Princess nine-day Japan with Gion Festival cruises, roundtrip Tokyo (Yokohama) – $1,799 interior; $2,859 balcony
  • Caribbean Princess seven-day Caribbean cruises, roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale – $879 interior; $1,199 balcony

The sale offers include bookings in all stateroom categories, subject to inventory availability. A low refundable deposit of $100 is required for guests one and two in all stateroom categories except suites, which require a $200 refundable deposit per guest. For shorter three-six day cruises, a $50 refundable deposit per guest required. All Princess ships do have casinos onboard, however you can always find online casinos when your not aboard.

Guests can book a Princess MedallionClassTM vacation onboard any of our five MedallionClass enabled ships. Featuring the complimentary OceanMedallion™ wearable device, MedallionClass vacations deliver an entirely new level of service and creates a vacation that is more seamless, effortless and personalized. Considered a breakthrough in the vacation industry and a CES® 2019 Innovation Award Honoree, the OceanMedallion wearable device features leading-edge technology that delivers personalized service through enhanced guest-crew interactions, eliminates friction points and enables interactive entertainment. Princess guests have access to the casinos onboard featuring table games, slots and much more. When your not on board the ship or cruising you can try online gambling.

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The Best. Sale. Ever. cruise sale starts at 12 am PST on December 11, 2019 and runs through 11:59 pm PST on February 29, 2020, and is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia. More details and exclusions can be found at www.princess.com.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at princess.com.

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Tips and Tricks for a Hassle-Free Cruise with a Baby

By
John Roberts
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Larger cruise ships feature great play areas and offer interactive daycare services.

When you welcome a newborn into your family, it certainly offers a whole new set of challenges and responsibilities. But that doesn’t mean you can’t share your love of cruising with your new bundle of joy. 

You just might have to do a little more research and preparation to make sure you can have a hassle-free and delightful travel experience. Cruise Addicts is here to help with our top tips and tricks to get you ready for your first cruise with a baby. 

Check Age Restrictions 

Most cruise lines require babies to be at least six months old to join a cruise. Transatlantic, Hawaii and South America cruises often have an age limit of at least 1-year-old before a baby can take one of these voyages.  

Hunt for the Best Fares 

You can get some great breaks when you bring along an infant (or any kids, really). MSC Cruises allows children 18 and younger to sail free when they are the third passenger in the same cabin with two adults. That’s a deal. Most other lines charge fares for babies, but they often are reduced up to 50 percent. Also, look for lines that provide baby food if you prefer not to pack food for the trip (beware of the hefty fee, though), and check for ships that offer cabins with bathtubs to make it easier to keep your toddler clean. 

Baby-Sitting Services 

If you plan to have date nights with your partner or will be going ashore for your excursions and beach time without your baby, make sure that your ship offers babysitting services. Ship staffers typically will watch your child for up to four hours at a time at a nursery area. Disney Cruise ships, for example, have the “It’s a Small World” nursery, a space chock full of activities for youngsters up to 3. Rates usually start around $8 per child per hour for cruise ship babysitting services. Some lines also offer in-cabin babysitting for a premium. 

Daycare and Infant Services  

Check the cruise ship’s programs. Make sure it offers daycare services and fun playrooms and spaces for kids younger than 2 where you can drop off your child for a bit or join your baby for a little playtime? Seek ships with quiet areas equipped with cribs, play spaces, and age-appropriate toys.  

Many major cruise lines also offer packages of amenities for your baby, such as diapers, wipes and baby food that you can order and have delivered to your room so that you don’t have to weigh down your suitcases with these items. Some will also have helpful booklets with information ranging from the benefits of disposable diapers and tips for making your newborn sleep better to articles aimed at unmasking baby wipe ingredients. Be sure to pack and bring baby floats and other items to make your cruise extra fun. 

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Look for ships that offer fun pool areas to keep your baby occupied.

Play Areas and Splash Zones  

Babies love to splash around in the water. Look for cruise ships that have splash pools that allow children with swim diapers. These colorful play spaces are brilliant amenities for families cruising with babies in the Caribbean and other warm regions. 

Baby-Friendly Accommodations 

You can get cribs or Pack ‘n Play-style playpens (usually complimentary) for use during your cruise. Strollers and other items like bottle warmers are available to rent, but make sure you reserve the items you need early because supplies can be limited.  

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Parents usually like to have a bathtub for their infants. Disney Cruise Line’s cabins have tubs, but you would need to look for larger cabins or upgrade to suites that offer bathtubs on other lines if this is a must. A few lines have baby tubs that you may borrow.  

The key to having your best cruise vacation with a baby is to ask what the cruise line offers so you can ensure you have everything you need. Also, consider using a professional travel planner who specializes in family cruises and can help you knock out each item on your checklist.

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Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White
Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White

The arrival of Carnival Panorama was celebrated in true Carnival Cruise Line fashion with Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White serving as godmother and officially naming the ship during a memorable ceremony onboard.

White delivered poignant comments during which she spoke about her love of cruising and the commitment she shares with Carnival to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as well as the cruise line’s relationship with Wheel of Fortune, which she has co-hosted for the past 37 years.

Vanna White

Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White
Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White during a ceremony in Long Beach, CA.

Then, in a nod to her role on Wheel of Fortune, America’s Game®, White turned a series of letters spelling out PANORAMA that triggered the release of a bottle of Moet champagne to officially name the ship.

“I’m incredibly flattered and honored to be the godmother of this ship.” said White. “Naming Carnival Panorama was truly a special moment, and one I will never forget. I look forward to sailing on her in the future.”

Carnival Kitchen

The festivities also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Carnival Kitchen, a first-in-fleet culinary center that offers more than 15 different interactive cooking, baking and decorating demonstrations.

Carnival Panorama Officially Named By Vanna White | 23
From left to right Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy, Rudi Sodamin, Guy Fieri, Emeril Lagasse and Cruise Director Emma Nixon at Ribbon Cutting of the new Carnival Kitchen in Long Beach, CA.

Joining Carnival President Christine Duffy at the ribbon-cutting were Carnival’s team of “Culinary All Stars” including Guy Fieri whose Burger Joint and Smokehouse Brewhouse are featured on Carnival Panorama, as well as Emeril Lagasse and Rudi Sodamin, who each will have new restaurants, Emeril’s Bistro 1396 and Rudi’s Seagrill, respectively, on the new Mardi Gras when it debuts next year.

“One of the things we are most proud of is the delicious food we offer across our fleet,” said Duffy. “To celebrate Carnival Panorama’s inaugural with our very own ‘Feast of Fun’ featuring our amazing culinary team both onboard and through our partnerships really added to the celebration.”

Sky Zone

The grand opening of the first Sky Zone trampoline park at sea was celebrated with Duffy and Sky Zone CEO Jeff Platt cutting the ribbon followed by the first participants checking out the high-flying action within the two-level, 3,000-square-foot facility.

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Carnival AirShip

The day included a return of the Carnival AirShip, a 128-foot-long blimp emblazoned with the line’s Choose Fun tag line and concluded with a massive fireworks display that lit up the Long Beach sky.

Following an inaugural three-day cruise, Carnival Panorama will launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera service from Long Beach, Calif., Dec. 14, departing every Saturday on week-long voyages to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visit Carnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.

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Women of NASA Celebrated at Naming Ceremony of Sky Princess

By
John Shallo
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Sky Princess Naming Ceremony
From left to right Poppy Northcutt, Captain Heikki Laakkonen, Captain Kay Hire and Princess Cruises President Jan Swartz celebrate the christening of Sky Princess during the naming ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Manuel Mazzanti/AP Images for Princess Cruises)

Princess Cruises christened its newest ship, Sky Princess in a moving tribute to the pioneering women of the U.S. Space Program who represent crowning achievements in science, research, and technology through innovation and their desire to explore the far reaches of the sky.

Princess Cruises chose the theme of Reach for the Sky for the occasion and honored two women of NASA for their achievements in the U.S. space program: Captain Kay Hire, and engineer Poppy Northcutt, who served as the godmothers of Sky Princess.

Naming Ceremony of Sky Princess
From left to right Stein Kruse, CEO of Princess Cruises, Holland America Group, Seabourn and Carnival Australia; Susan Morgan, Chief Security Officer, Sky Princess; Poppy Northcutt; Captain Heikki Laakkonen; Princess Cruises president Jan Swartz, Carnival Corporation Chairman Micky Arison, Kerry- Ann Wright, Sky Princess Madrina and Second Officer, and Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation at the Sky Princess official naming ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Honoring Women of NASA

Captain Hire began her 30-year NASA career as a mechanical systems engineer, helping to launch more than 40 space missions. Then, as an astronaut, she logged 700 hours in space, flew over 12 million miles, and orbited the earth 475 times. She was the first female assigned to a military combat flight crew while serving in the U.S. Navy. And, she retired from the U.S. Navy with more than 35 years of service. Poppy Northcutt served as the first female mission control engineer when NASA made history with its mission to the moon. When the crew of Apollo 13 became stranded in their service module, it was her team’s calculations that brought them home safely – a feat of heroism that earned the entire mission operations a Presidential Medal of Freedom Team Award.

“As we celebrate our newest, most technologically advanced ship – one whose spirit of adventure and discovery match the grandeur of her name, Sky Princess, we also applaud the groundbreaking women of the U.S. Space Program.” said Princess Cruises President Jan Swartz. “Our godmothers, Captain Kay Hire and Poppy Northcutt, remind us all of what we can achieve when we reach for the sky.”

Sky Princess

Sky Princess Captain Heikki Laakkonen also recognized two Sky Princess female officers who embody the Reach for the Sky theme, striving for success in leadership positions – Kerry Ann Wright, who started working in the cruise industry as a spa technician and went back to school to rise through the ranks to become a Second Officer working on the bridge; and Chief Security Officer Susan Morgan, who is the longest-serving woman in the British Royal Navy.

Sky Princess Naming Ceremony
From left to right Poppy Northcutt, Captain Heikki Laakkonen, Captain Kay Hire and Princess Cruises president Jan Swartz prepare to launch the champagne bottle to christen Sky Princess during the official naming ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Manuel Mazzanti/AP Images for Princess Cruises)

Captain Hire and Poppy Northcutt, recited the traditional cruise ship blessing before pushing a NASA-style “launch” button releasing and smashing a 15-liter bottle of champagne, officially naming Sky Princess.

Watch A Video of the Sky Princess Naming Ceremony

Star-Studded Entertainment

The ceremony featured star-studded entertainment adding to the exciting bottle break moment, including Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador and Love Boat actress Jill Whelan, serving as ceremony co-host with Sky Princess Cruise Director Alexander Yepremian; and a performance of Dream On from America’s Got Talent Alum, Brian Justin Crum. The finale of the naming ceremony included a performance of This is Me from The Greatest Showman and featured in the cruise line’s new production show Rock Opera.

Sky Princess Atrium
Sky Princess Atrium

Sky Princess, recently completed her inaugural season in Europe and is now sailing on voyages to the Caribbean through spring 2020. Representing an evolution of the design platform used for her sister Royal-Class ships – Regal Princess, Royal Princess, and Majestic Princess – the 143,700-ton, 3,660-guest Sky Princess offers an elevation of spectacular style and elegance that Princess is known for, in addition to new distinct features.

New Luxury Sky Suites

New luxury Sky Suites
New luxury Sky Suites boasting expansive views from the largest balconies at sea.

Introduced on Sky Princess are new luxury Sky Suites boasting expansive views from the largest balconies at sea. As well as a Phantom Bridge, an immersive escape room and Take Five, the only jazz theater at sea.

First MedallionClass New Build

MedallionClass
The debut of Sky Princess marks the first MedallionClass new build. Powered by the OceanMedallion™, the global hospitality industry’s most advanced wearable device.

The debut of Sky Princess marks the first MedallionClass new build. Powered by the OceanMedallion™, the global hospitality industry’s most advanced wearable device, MedallionClass vacations deliver a new level of service for a vacation that is more seamless, effortless and personalized. Considered a breakthrough in the vacation industry and a CES® 2019 Innovation Award Honoree, the complimentary OceanMedallion features leading-edge technology that delivers personalized service through enhanced guest-crew interactions, while eliminating friction points and enabling interactive entertainment.

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The Princess Cruises fleet continues to expand with Enchanted Princess in June 2020, Discovery Princess in November 2021 and two new (LNG) ships in 2023 and 2025.

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Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady Successfully Completes Sea Trials

By
John Shallo
-
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ first ship, the Scarlet Lady has successfully completed Sea Trials. The ship embarked on its first round of Sea Trials, sailing from Genoa to Marseille from November 15 to 18, and then back from Marseille to Genoa from November 27 to November 30.

Virgin Founder Sir Richard Branson boarded the Scarlet Lady in Marseille, touring the ship with his wife Joan and children Sam and Holly, as well as Virgin Voyages’ CEO Tom McAlpin, Chief Commercial Officer Nirmal Saverimuttu, SVP of Design Dee Cooper and CEO of Virgin Atlantic, Shai Weiss. Branson ceremoniously painted the outline of the Virgin flag on the hull of the ship where the Virgin Voyages logo will appear.

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Following Sea Trials, Virgin Voyages can confirm the Scarlet Lady is smooth, stable and quiet, gliding through the water in various weather conditions for a thoroughly enjoyable sailing experience. Upon completion, the ship has been put to the test and demonstrated that she is seaworthy. In addition to her superior performance, the ship’s interior design and experiential backdrop truly breaks the mold in the cruise industry. Designed to reflect a yacht’s sleek luxury, her interior spaces are curated by a creative collective that includes some of the top names in a contemporary aesthetic, offering a chic atmosphere paired with stunning sea views throughout.

“We’re thrilled to have completed such a significant milestone with our Sea Trials and have our amazing crew to thank for their passion and tenacity in this achievement. We’re one step closer to getting our Sailors on the Scarlet Lady and are grateful for all that have chosen to join us on this adventure,” said Tom McAlpin, Virgin Voyages CEO.

On April 1, 2020 the Scarlet Lady will set sail on her inaugural Maiden Voyage. This first celebratory sailing will be packed full of celebrity-guest appearances, special events, exclusive surprises and an overall enhanced Virgin Voyages experience for sailors to revel in. Sailors who are unable to join the Maiden Voyage can book the Sneak-a-Peek sailings now on VirginVoyages.com. The first Sneak-a-Peek sailing will run from Thursday, March 26 – Sunday, March 29. The second sailing will run Sunday, March 29 – Wednesday, April 1. The three-night Sneak-a-Peek Scarlet Lady sailings will feature the ship’s marquee experiences including a stunning day at the Beach Club at Bimini, a Scarlet Night Party, access to all restaurants and complete versions of entertainment offered onboard.

Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady Successfully Completes Sea Trials | 23

As Virgin Voyages first ship prepares for her Maiden Voyage, the brand announces their second ship, Valiant Lady. Debuting in May 2021, Valiant Lady will have a home port of Barcelona, Spain and will sail 7-night Mediterranean itineraries. Bookings for the three feature itineraries, that all offer overnight and late-night stops across some of the hottest destinations in France, Italy and Spain, will open December 19, 2019.

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Norwegian Encore Offers Thrilling Shops Onboard

By
John Shallo
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Norwegian Encore Shopping
Norwegian Encore Shopping

First-at-sea brands, luxury brands, and exclusive products highlight the final ship in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus class

Starboard Cruise Services is celebrating the retail launch onboard Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Cruise Line’s fourth and final Breakaway Plus class ship. We saw these shops firsthand during our recent visit and made a few purchases of ourselves.

Boasting more than 7,000 square feet, The Tradewinds Shops invites guests to Splurge. Save. Encore. Excitement Every Time You Shop On Board. The ship offers luxury retail spaces, first-at-sea brands, limited-edition spirits, inaugural exclusives, and sustainability collections that align with Norwegian’s environmental commitment.

“We are thrilled about inviting guests to the many exciting retail offerings that were specifically curated for Norwegian Encore,” stated Lisa Bauer, Starboard’s president and CEO. “There is a lot to discover, from top-name brands to immersive events – we give guests so many great reasons to return to the retail shops again and again throughout the voyage.”

Luxury Retail Offerings

Norwegian Encore bolsters the cruise line’s luxury presence. It offers Norwegian’s first Bvlgari boutique launched outside of Asia. Its fully branded Swiss timepieces enclave is one of the largest on any ship at sea, with selections from Panerai, IWC, Hublot and Cartier. Known for its Italian flair and Swiss technology, Panerai is a first for Norwegian, with an elevated space that is the brand’s most expansive at sea. The ship also features a Cartier Espace, enhanced Le Vian fine jewelry area, and a first at sea John Hardy shop in shop.

Firsts for Norwegian

IT Cosmetics, the popular, game-changing cosmetics brand, is available for the first time at sea on Norwegian Encore. NYX Professional Makeup, one of the beauty industry’s fastest growing brands, is available for the first time on Norwegian Cruise Line.

Limited-Edition Spirits

Guests can enjoy a selection of limited-edition rare spirits exclusive to Norwegian Encore that include Barton 1792 Full Proof Bourbon Barrel, Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Bourbon, Herradura Tequila Single Barrel and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Whiskey. Each Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Whiskey bottle features a commemorative Norwegian Encore medallion, providing guests with a keepsake of the cruise.

The Veuve Clicquot Arrow tin, encasing one of the world’s great champagnes from Starboard’s sister-brand, is available in a limited edition created exclusively for Norwegian Encore.

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Exclusive Branded Collections

Emulating Norwegian’s commitment to environmental concerns, sustainability is central to Norwegian Encore’s retail experience. Exclusively created for Norwegian Encore, Sail & Sustain’s eco-conscious brand aligns with the cruise line’s Sail & Sustain Environmental Program. It features apparel and headwear made from recycled water bottles and blankets produced from 100% recycled polyester. 4Ocean is a first on Norwegian, offering bracelets made from 100% recycled materials.

The Norwegian Encore Branded Collection features a product assortment specifically for the ship’s inaugural, comprised of limited-edition collectibles and a children’s collection.

Experiential Retail

Starboard continues to reimagine the cruise journey through highly experiential retail on Norwegian Encore, with activations that bring brands to life.

  • Bvlgari Serpenti Seduttori Celebration: Guests are exclusively invited to view Bvlgari’s highly anticipated new timepiece, Serpenti Seduttori, in true Bvlgari style, with branded backdrops and photo opportunities.
  • Panerai Underwater World: Guests wear virtual-reality headsets and can explore the underwater world as they encounter sea life and learn about the dive-worthy properties of Panerai timepieces.
  • Sail to Bali with John Hardy: An immersive experience where guests learn about the eight-step process of John Hardy’s authentic Balinese jewelry-making techniques.
  • Cartier Grooms: This event showcases Cartier’s world-famous uniformed “Groomsmen.” Select guests receive an exclusive co-branded Cartier postcard that can be brought to the Cartier Espace onboard and mailed from a Cartier-branded mailbox.
  • Makeup Seminar: A Beauty specialist hosts a makeup seminar featuring NYX, IT Cosmetics and Urban Decay. They transform guests with a 5-minute makeup look and invite spectators to sign-up for their own individual consultations.

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Vanna White Chosen as Godmother of New Carnival Panorama

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Panorama Sea Trials
Carnival Panorama Sea Trials

Carnival Cruise Line has selected one of the most popular television hostesses ever – Vanna White – as godmother for Carnival Panorama when she is officially named during its ceremony in Long Beach, Calif., on December 10.

Vanna White
Vanna White

“Vanna has been that welcoming face, cheering on and watching over Wheel of Fortune contestants for decades, and we love the fact that Vanna will be doing the same for Carnival Panorama, her guests and crew, as the ship’s godmother,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  “Every night, millions of Americans welcome Vanna into their homes. She is beloved. What other game show hostess has earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame?  And she’s got the most famous wardrobe on television!”

“Carnival Cruise Line has been delivering fun and memorable vacations while taking great care of their guests for almost 50 years, and it is such an honor to be asked to be a part of the celebration of their newest ship coming to California,” said White.  “There is always so much excitement whenever we give away a Carnival cruise on the show. I can’t wait to see the ship and to meet the crew in December.”

Carnival Panorama departed from the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy on Nov. 1, and is en route to Long Beach for her naming ceremony on Dec. 10 and inaugural sailing Dec. 11.  The vessel is the first new ship Carnival has deployed to the West Coast in 20 years, and is the third in Carnival’s popular Vista Class, joining her sister ships Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon.

Vanna and her colleague Pat Sajak are no strangers to Carnival Cruise Line.  The Wheel of Fortune slot machines are popular attractions in the casinos across the Carnival fleet, and Pat and Vanna have been on board to tape segments for Wheel of Fortune as part of several successful cross-promotions between the brands over the years.

Over the course of her 37 years on Wheel of Fortune, Vanna has appeared in more than 7,000 episodes, cheering on contestants and dazzling in a new outfit each night.  Her success has provided a foundation to help others in need.   Combining her passion for crocheting and helping children, the Myrtle Beach, S.C. native launched her own line of yarn called “Vanna’s Choice,” with a portion of the proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, of which Carnival is a longtime supporter.

Following an inaugural three-day cruise, Carnival Panorama will launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera service from Long Beach, Calif., Dec. 14, departing every Saturday on week-long voyages to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.

As the name implies, Carnival Panorama reflects design inspiration with more opportunities to connect with the sea. The ship features a number of innovations including the first Sky Zone trampoline park at sea as well as a first-in-fleet culinary studio where guests can participate in hands-on cooking classes, tastings and other food-related activities hosted by the ship’s chefs.

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Carnival Panorama also offers a variety of guest favorites such as a WaterWorks aqua park, Sky Ride, the popular bike in the sky with breathtaking views, a suspended ropes course and dining venues like Bonsai Teppanyaki and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse with barbecue favorites from Food Network star and Carnival partner Guy Fieri along with craft beers brewed on board.

A wide range of staterooms choices are available as well, including spa staterooms with exclusive privileges at the luxurious Cloud 9 Spa, extra-spacious staterooms in Family Harbor and tropical-inspired Havana staterooms with access to a Cuban-themed bar and pool.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visit Carnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.

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