MSC Cruises Unveils Plans for Innovative Terminal at PortMiami
MSC Cruises has announced plans for a new cruise terminal at PortMiami that will support its expanding presence in North America and in the Caribbean in particular.
As per the terms of the agreement, which has received approval from the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, MSC Cruises will design, construct, operate and maintain a large building that hosts two cruise terminals (AA and AAA) as well as two berths. Designed by the award-winning global architecture firm Arquitectonica, MSC Cruises’ exclusive new PortMiami terminals will be capable of hosting two mega cruise ships at the same time, allowing the Company to conduct two turnaround operations simultaneously, handling up to 28,000 passenger movements per day.
MSC Cruises Unveils Plans for Innovative Terminal at PortMiami
MSC Cruises Unveils Plans for Innovative Terminal at PortMiami
Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises Executive Chairman, said: “With another 13 cruise vessels due to join our fleet in the next eight years, our ambition is to have our most innovative ship classes represented at PortMiami, bringing a wealth of choice to our North American as well as international guests.
“In particular, the new terminal – which will be one of the most innovative the industry has seen – will ensure that we can provide our guests an enhanced end-to-end high-quality experience while both embarking and disembarking, thus adding to their ability to fully enjoy every moment of their vacation.”
MSC Cruises currently operates four vessels out of PortMiami: MSC Seaside and MSC Armonia year-round; MSC Divina seasonally; and MSC Meraviglia, which will join the ships sailing from Miami this fall, seasonally. With the new cruise facilities, MSC Cruises will bring a total 1 million guests through PortMiami each year.
Work on the new terminals is due to commence in early 2020. MSC Cruises currently estimates that the work will be completed by late 2022, at which time the Company will transfer all its PortMiami operations to the new Terminal.
To learn more or to book your cruise visit MSC Cruises at www.msccruises.com
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Viking and China Merchants Shekou, representing China Merchants Group, announced they have signed a memorandum of understanding to form a joint venture focused on building a cruise line with worldwide cruise offerings for the Chinese cruise market.
This will be a wide-ranging partnership covering from product development to sales and marketing. Further, China Merchants Group’s shipbuilding subsidiaries will partner with the joint venture to design and build new ocean cruise ships dedicated to the Chinese market.
“China is a dynamic outbound tourism market, and we are pleased to be partnering with China Merchants Group in this joint venture to drive the development of the cruise industry – we see Viking’s way of cruising less as a trip and more as a lifestyle,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking.
Hagen continued by saying: “For more than 20 years, we have led the industry in developing a fleet of ships and a range of cruise itineraries that we believe provide guests with the most comfortable and enriching way to explore the world. Our partnership with China Merchants Group will allow us to bring this Viking travel lifestyle to more Chinese travelers more quickly, satisfying the Chinese market’s unmet demand for a greater choice of sophisticated travel.”
“China Merchants Group treasures this cooperation with Viking. This is a full scale, multi-dimensional cooperation that covers all three main business sectors of China Merchants group,” said Gangfeng Fu, president of China Merchants Group. “Viking has gained tremendous experience in cruise operations and branding strategies during its 20 years of rapid growth. We sincerely hope that the alliance of the two powerful brands will create synergies and innovative business models that will lead the cooperation into a market-leading cruise brand.
Viking operates a current fleet of 78 vessels, offering scenic cruising on rivers and oceans around the world. China has been a part of Viking’s destination portfolio since 2003, and since setting up local operations in China in 2016, the company has seen strong momentum in its European river cruise product tailored for Chinese-speaking guests.
For more information visit VikingCruises.com or Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent.
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In March 2019, two brand new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows launched on board MSC Cruises’ new flagship, MSC Bellissima. The leading cruise line has revealed details of the inspiration and creative process behind these two original new shows along with the first images of the spectacular performances.
Every element of each new Cirque du Soleil at Sea show is unique from the concept, storyline, the characters, the costumes and make-up through to the music, staging and sound effects. The concepts are first developed by the experienced and talented creative team based at Cirque du Soleil’s international headquarters in Montreal, Canada. Following a rigorous casting process and intensive ideation workshops, the shows are then refined and brought to life on board the ship in the custom-built entertainment venue, the Carousel Lounge, designed to meet the specific needs of Cirque du Soleil.
SYMA is a fantastical odyssey into the heart of an imaginary world, and the search for a mysterious island inhabited by phantasmagorical creatures. The original idea was that an MSC Cruises’ ship is like an island in the middle of the ocean. The guests on board MSC Bellissima are embarking on a journey of discovery, just like the main character of the show. Immersive video images, an original set design, bioluminescent lighting and acrobatic feats make SYMA an unforgettable show.
Discover VARÉLIA, a tale of modern chivalry where love and courage triumph over the greatest divides. The show title could have been ‘some time’ as it mixes eras using chivalry novel codes with modern and contemporary elements. A medieval tale with a futuristic twist. The inspirations lie in the cartoon world using a simple story arc but offering a multi-layered interpretation with a humoristic touch. Delight in the acrobatic feats, the laser show and the unique set design of this futuristic medieval tale.
With these two new shows, Cirque du Soleil continues to push creative boundaries with the introduction of innovations in staging, makeup, costumes and performances. Some of the highlights include:
The Underwater Creatures characters in SYMA have ultraviolet iridescent makeup, which, along with parts of their costume, glow under special lights built into the custom-made Carousel Lounge
The creative team have used video projection mapping for the first time in SYMA to project content onto tangible set elements and props on stage to add yet another visual element to the show. This technology enhances the guest experience by animating static objects and surfaces
The finale of VARÉLIA includes a breathtaking roller skating duo spinning at incredibly high speeds while completing complex tricks. This, coupled with an aerial cerceau duo creates a spectacular floor-to-ceiling climax
Laser lights are used in VARÉLIA to create an intangible, futuristic and changing set design. They convey the theme and atmosphere of the show. With a strong focus on aesthetic principles and the safety of both the artists and the audience, the set of lasers create graphic figures and illusions where Cirque du Soleil at Sea artists can thrive
Cirque du Soleil at Sea is a pre-booked experience for guests with competitive rates and can be booked in advance, or while on board during the cruise, if availability allows. Guests can either book to enjoy a three-course menu of palate-pleasing dishes served before the show ($39), or sip on a specialty cocktail ($17) and enjoy the pre-show that begins 30 minutes before the start of the Cirque du Soleil at Sea performance.
https://youtu.be/2ubxklGG7HY
MSC Meraviglia was the first ship to debut the new Cirque du Soleil at Sea concept with the launch of the two shows VIAGGIO and SONOR in June 2017 and the ship recently celebrated the 1,000th performance. Work is already underway for the next shows for MSC Grandiosa, launching in November 2019.
MSC Bellissima is the second Meraviglia Class ship to join MSC Cruises’ fleet. As MSC Meraviglia, she is the ship for all seasons, with plenty of outdoor and indoor public spaces. With a length of 1,036 ft., she has been designed to be able to access most of the world’s cruise ports.
To learn more or to book your cruise visit MSC Cruises at www.msccruises.com
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Aqua Expeditions - New Luxury Cruise Destinations 2019
Boutique luxury cruise line to launch three new destinations and double its fleet by mid-2020
Aqua Expeditions has announced that is it set to enter the coastal cruise market in the fall of 2019, after operating as an Amazon and Mekong River cruise line for the past twelve years. A month ago, Aqua Expeditions finalized the purchase of a long-range 200-foot explorer yacht originally built for Britain’s Royal Navy; the vessel is now undergoing a complete refurbishment designed to transform it into an ultra-modern luxury expedition cruise ship catering to affluent explorers.
Scheduled to begin full operations in November 2019, the explorer class vessel will serve three new destinations with year-round departures. The full announcement on vessel name, facts, destinations and itinerary details will be released globally on May 8, 2019.
The May 8th announcement will also unveil a brand-new, state-of-the-art, luxury river cruise vessel to consolidate Aqua Expeditions’ position as one of the leaders in the river-cruise market. Once this and the recently purchased expedition vessel are in operation, Aqua Expeditions will have doubled its fleet from two to four vessels by mid-2020.
“Even as we grow, as an owner, I remain deeply involved in every aspect of the new vessels – from the minutiae of the design details to the intricacies of the itineraries — just as we did when we started out in 2007,” says CEO Francesco Galli Zugaro, “and, as with all Aqua Expeditions vessels, we are partnering both with renowned designers and critically acclaimed chefs to provide a world-class experience.”
The fleet expansion and geographic diversification underscore Aqua Expeditions’ long-time dedication to providing:
a commitment to community, sustainability and preservation
“The new ships and destinations we will reveal next month are certain to intrigue the sophisticated traveler,” added Galli Zugaro.
Aqua Expeditions currently operates river cruise ships Aria Amazon on the Peruvian Amazon and Aqua Mekong on the Mekong river in Cambodia and Vietnam. For more information, please visit www.aquaexpeditions.com.
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The excitement you feel when planning your next vacation! And the angst you feel when you realize you have to pack your luggage. the process can become complicated, especially if you don’t have any sort of suitcase and you have to shop around for one. You should factor in durability, size, and price in your research process. But sometimes, even if you carefully analyze these variables, you still have a hard time deciding which solution is the best for you.
The market features a series of products that bring excitement to many travelers’ life. The Autonomous luggage pieces are appreciated by a growing number of users today. Part of the Internet has fallen in love with these products because of some specs all these products share. But the Flier 2 collection excels through the following:
Design;
Durability;
Compartment layout;
Size variety;
High security levels;
Ease of use;
Extended warranty.
But let’s break down those features and learn more about every little aspect that makes this product so appreciated.
Image source: Autonomous luggage
Design
A common plus found by all users is this product’s design. The style is classy and sleek, the wheels are silent, thanks to the Hinomoto super silent double wheels with 360° rotation. The luggage pieces’ proportions are just perfect. Each option available in the Flier 2 collection is lightweight and makes the luggage easy to handle and move around.
On to the looks of the Autonomous Flier 2 luggage pieces. The black and deep blue colors make them look classy and neutral, being easy to incorporate in all outfits. Although this isn’t an important matter for many travelers, others see it as a big plus.
Overall, the product’s design comes as an impactful first impression when you interact with it!
Durability
The product’s durability is partly offered by the indestructible polycarbonate shell.
We are all anxious about what will happen with our luggage after checking in. How many times will it be slammed during the process?
Travelers that constantly worry about their luggage’s safety can rest assured the polycarbonate shell absorbs all kinds of shocks. All your items will be safely stored in the beautifully-compartmented case. Besides, the shell is scratch-resistant and waterproof. These two features will allow you to use your Flier 2 suitcases for years, in perfect form, no matter the outdoor conditions.
The YKK metal zippers also contribute to the luggage pieces’ durability. Being known as some of the most exquisitely-manufactured zippers, you won’t find yourself struggling to find a new piece of luggage because your old one’s zippers have fallen apart.
The carry-on versions in the Flier 2 collection are manufactured out of tear-resistant, waterproof oxford fabric, allowing you to enjoy this smaller luggage piece for years of intensive use.
For the price point at which these luggage pieces are available, they truly are a steal, considering their durability!
As a fun trivia, the product is engineered from a thermoplastic polymer, commonly used in quality helmets. Designed with reinforced corners, your suitcase will absorb impacts, and you will enjoy some extra space for all your belongings.
Compartment Layout
The Flier 2 Check-in Large 27” Black luggage may have one of the best compartment layouts in all luggage pieces out there! The compartments are smartly split into several storage compartments.
The laundry compartment will allow you to keep your used clothing articles away from the fresh ones. Besides, the laundry compartment is designed to absorb unpleasant odors and keep the rest of your luggage fresh!
The Flier 2 check-in large luggage also has a special electronic device storage compartment, helping you stress less about your electronic devices’ safety when traveling. The rest of your luggage will be orderly and clean, thanks to the smart compartments.
And speaking about orderly luggage pieces, when using this one you won’t find your clothing laying around in a complete mess.
Size Variety
Wouldn’t be incredible to find the same extra safety and sleek design in different sizes? Well, the minds behind this amazing piece of luggage have thought of everything. Now the Flier comes in different sizes, to accommodate different types of travelers and their needs.
The Flier Carry-On 20″ – with an exterior of approximately 21.7” x 13.7” x 9” and interior space of 20” x 13.5”.
The Flier Carry-On 20″ Pocket – with similar dimensions and an extra exterior pocket of approximately 11.4” x 15.3”.
The Flier Check-In Medium 24″ – the medium option comes in 26” x 18.5” x 11” on the exterior and 24” x 17.5” interior.
The Filter Check-In Large 27″ – the large option is significantly more generous, with an interior of 27” x 19.5” and exterior of 29” x 20.5” x 12.5”.
No matter what your travel style is, the Autonomous luggage pieces will come to meet your needs.
Security
If you are a little paranoid that someone will go through your luggage after the security check, you’re not the only one. Everybody is worried about it!
Well, the Autonomous Flier 2 luggage pieces share an incredible feature: a TSA-approved combination lock that will help you have your peace of mind. While the lock itself allows TSA employees to have a look at your luggage during routine checks, it will keep opportunists away.
Ease of Use
The dimensions the Autonomous Flier 2 come in are internationally-approved, making packing a breeze! The luggage pieces also have expandable depths, ensuring that you won’t have to worry too much because of some extra shopping on your vacation. The sizes available are also suitable for train or airplane use, allowing you allowing you not to limit your travel means. The rubber handle ensures easy handling, preventing you from hurting your hands when manipulating your luggage.
Extended Warranty
Like all the other Autonomous luggage pieces, this product also comes with a 1-year warranty. Whatever goes wrong with your luggage piece, the team at Autonomous will have it fixed! Besides, all clients enjoy a 30-day trial period to test the product. If it doesn’t make you fall in love, you can have a refund!
The Price
If all the features above have made you think the large check-in luggage comes at exorbitant prices, you will be surprised to find out the Autonomous Flier 2 Check-in Large 27” luggage only costs US$139 and it can be purchased with Affirm over-time payments, at a US$14 monthly rate.
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Royal Caribbean International officially took delivery of the 26th ship in its fleet, Spectrum of the Seas, in a ceremony held today in Bremerhaven, Germany. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Chairman and CEO Richard D. Fain and President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International Michael Bayley received the new ship from Meyer Wert Yard’s Managing Partner Bernard Meyer and Meyer Werft Yard’s Managing Director Tim Meyer at the official handover ceremony. The first in the Quantum Ultra class of ships, Spectrum will homeport from Shanghai starting June 2019.
Designed and built for unforgettable vacation experiences, Spectrum will debut the global cruise line’s first private enclave for suite guests, new stateroom categories, and innovative dining concepts, along with stunning features, experiences and technology – many of which have never been seen before at sea.
The two-level, 2,809-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite accommodating up to 11 guests. The three-bedroom suite includes a master bedroom and two additional bedrooms for grandparents and other family members. Kids have their own kid-friendly space on the upper level, complete with an in-suite slide that will transport them to the living area below. Everyone in the family can enjoy time together in the recreation room, featuring surround-sound equipment for a night of karaoke, movies and video games.
Innovative dining concepts Sichuan Red– with authentic cuisine from the Sichuan province of China, Wonderland’s Dadong – a new outpost of Chinese chef Dong Zhenxiang, renowned for his much-coveted roast duck; and the Leaf and Bean traditional tea room and café parlor offering a range of authentic Chinese teas, classic coffee drinks as well as freshly baked Chinese and western desserts and pastries.
Debuting on Spectrum, a new lively and energetic karaoke venue, Star Moment, where family and friends can belt out and sing like stars.
An enhanced SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, where families can enjoy bumper cars, roller skating, basketball, and new augmented realitywalls and floors, providing guests with thrilling, high-tech interactive experiences.
The iconic Sky Pad, a virtual reality, bungee trampoline experience located on the aft of the ship, as well as Quantum Class favorites: the North Star, a glass capsule that takes guests more than 300 feet above the ocean for incomparable panoramic views; RipCord by iFly, a heart-pounding skydiving simulator experience; and the FlowRider surfing simulator.
Cutting-edge and transformative venues, such as Two70with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking 270-degree views of the ocean. Two70 features its signature Vistaramatechnology, which transforms the panoramic windows into a projection surface more than 100 feet wide and over 20 feet tall to showcase spectacular digital shows. Six agile Roboscreens, measuring over 7 feet tall and controlled by powerful, yet nimble robotic arms, create scenes as they soar and twist solo or as one. Two70 will also feature new room-scale augmented reality experiences that transport vacationers to new worlds of adventure.
Accommodating 4,246 guests at double occupancy and 1,551 international crew members, Spectrum will be the largest and most expensive ship in Asia when she arrives to her new home in Shanghai on June 3, 2019. Before Spectrum arrives to her new home this summer, she will sail a 46-night Global Odyssey from Barcelona, Spain to Shanghai, taking guests to an exciting array of ports, including Aqaba, Jordan; Dubai, UAE; Muscat, Oman; Cochin, India and Georgetown, Malaysia. In winter 2019, the ship will reposition to Hong Kong to offer special holiday cruises.
For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers should call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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Viking River Cruises, the world’s largest river cruise company keeps getting larger. We take you to Basel, Switzerland for the Viking Longship Naming Ceremony for 2019. Viking now has seven new ships sailing rivers in Europe with more on the way, and new markets to explore. Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen says this continued growth is all about what he calls the “Viking Difference”.
After the ceremony those in attendance enjoyed dinner at Basel’s Fondation Beyeler museum, set amidst the museum’s newest and most ambitious exhibition: The Young Picasso. Blue and Rose Periods. It features priceless artworks. It was an amazing treat to watch a performance by Alma Deutscher, the 14-year-old English composer, pianist, violinist, and child prodigy—who is a favorite of Chairman Hagen’s. Her performance made the evening extra special.
For more information visit VikingCruises.com or Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent.
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The sun-splashed region full of beaches and surrounded by beautiful seas requires some special attention, though, when it comes to packing. We’ve been there several times and have frequently learned the hard way that we forgot an item or two that we wish we had packed.
Learn from our mistakes and make sure to consider these 10 items you didn’t know that you needed for a Caribbean cruise.
Aloe Vera
Sure, we had plenty of sunscreen and lotion, but the sun can be so hot down near the equator that you misjudge just how much you need. Even if you slather it on pretty good, you can get a sunburn if you stay out too long (like we did while snorkeling in Aruba). Bring some aloe vera gel to soothe sunburn and help you sleep better after your days on the beach.
Also, speaking about that sunscreen, make sure you use a reef-safe lotion that won’t damage the coral when you’re in the ocean.
Caribbean” width=”960″ height=”540″ /> Caribbean cruises mean a lot of beach time, and we always make sure to wear our rashguards to protect against sunburn. Plus, a backup pair of sunglasses are a must.
Rash Guard
To further protect yourself when out on a catamaran ride or snorkeling, swimming and paddleboarding under the intense sun, get yourself a rash guard. These are long-sleeve athletic swim shirts (spandex or polyester) that often have added UV protection properties. They can be quite stylish, too.
Extra Sunglasses
Wouldn’t it be just like you to finally lose or break your favorite pair of sunglasses while you’re on your cruise vacation? Be prepared with a backup pair of shades.
Bug Spray
In some parts of the Caribbean, sand fleas, flies and mosquitoes can prove to be a nuisance, especially when you visit the beaches or rainforests. Pack a can of bug repellant to aid your efforts in keeping them away.
Baby Shampoo
Chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time in your swimsuit, whether in the highly chlorinated pool on your ship or in salty seawater at your port destinations. Women’s bathing suits can be especially expensive and delicate, so you want to make sure to take proper care so they will last longer. Bring along some baby shampoo or mild liquid hand soap to use to rinse out the oils, sweat, lotions, sand and salt each day from your suits. (Laundry detergent is too harsh and can ruin your suits.)
Magnetic Hooks
You will be using beach bags, towels, swim suits, coverups, floppy hats and other items when you go out daily to the pool or beaches. While you’ll probably have a small clothesline and a few hooks in your cruise cabin bathroom, they probably won’t be adequate for all your stuff. Get a package or two of strong magnetic hooks to use on your cabin walls (which are made of steel), and you’ll have all the extra space you need to keep your room organized and functional.
src=”https://cruiseaddicts.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/camera-1024×769.jpg” alt=”waterproof camera” width=”1024″ height=”769″ /> A good waterproof camera allows you to expand your options for capturing amazing pictures on your cruise vacation.
Underwater Camera
If you expect to be snorkeling, swimming, paddling or enjoying other activities on the water, you might want consider getting a waterproof camera or housing for your camera or cellphone that lets you take pictures underwater. This way, you can capture all the best moments from your adventures. It’s a good idea to get a strap for your wrist or a floatie for your camera, too, so that it won’t sink to the bottom of the ocean if you drop it while snorkeling or off a boat while on a tour.
Driver’s License
You might be used to just traveling with your passport as identification, but there are times when you might need your driver’s license, as well. To get around on a Caribbean island for a day, you might decide to rent a scooter, ATV, golf cart, 4-wheeler, or even a car. This means you’ll need a valid driver’s license to rent the vehicle.
Water Shoes
When ashore, you might encounter rocky or pebbled entries to the water. Tours could take you into cenotes or across lava-like surfaces toward swimming holes or tubing activities that can be hard to navigate in bare feet. A good pair of comfy water shoes are always recommended.
Antacids
A good item to pack for a cruise to any region. We’ve often overindulged, enjoying all the great food and drink on our cruise ship, and wished we had brought some antacids to help bring some relief from our indigestion.
What other items do you think are especially helpful for a Caribbean cruise? Let us know in the comments below.
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You can now add “water park expert” to Carnival Chief Fun Officer’s (CFO) Shaquille O’Neal’s title!
The NBA Hall of Famer and fun aficionado today revealed details for the “Choose Fun” aqua park aboard the new Carnival Panorama, set to debut from Long Beach, Calif., in December.
During a video “press conference,” (wink, wink) the seven-footer announced that he had just returned from personally testing out Carnival Panorama’s two massive water slides — the 455-foot-long Red Fun slide and the 300-foot-long Blue Fun slide — to make sure they’re the “funnest” they can be.
The Choose Fun water park takes center stage on Carnival Panorama’s top deck and will also include a 300-gallon PowerDrencher tipping bucket.
Taking its name from Carnival’s brand slogan, the Choose Fun park takes center stage on Carnival Panorama’s top deck and will also include a 300-gallon PowerDrencher tipping bucket, part of a Shaq-tastic kiddie spray park, along with popular Carnival favorites like the SkyRide aerial attraction and a suspended ropes course, part of the SportSquare outdoor recreation area.
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, Carnival Panorama is scheduled to set sail on its inaugural three-day voyage from Long Beach then launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera service Dec. 14, marking the first new Carnival ship from the West Coast in 20 years.
The week-long voyages feature day-long stops to top seaside resort destinations, including Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.
For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.
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Former Israeli Soldiers Receive Free Healing Cruise from Boston-Based Vantage Deluxe World Travel
Vantage Deluxe World Travel, headquartered in Boston, is proud to honor the Israeli Brothers for Life organization by providing 20 former Israeli troops with a complimentary, all-inclusive Rhine Jazz Discovery cruise aboard the five-star, deluxe ms River Voyager, as part of Vantage Deluxe World Travel’s Vantage Heroes Program, which honors heroes across the United States and around the world who inspire with their spirit.
Brothers for Life works to empower injured combat soldiers and help them reclaim their lives, fulfill their dreams, and continue to serve and inspire the Jewish nation. Their nine-day cruise, which departed on March 25th, began in Breisach, Germany, and will include stops at such picturesque ports of call as Strasbourg, Mainz, Koblenz, and Cologne, before concluding in Amsterdam.
“Vantage strives to honor the quiet heroes among us whose lives have been dramatically affected by tragedy, loss, and war,” said Nicole Fusaro, Director of the Vantage Heroes Program. “These soldiers’ stories of perseverance and resilience are incredibly inspirational and we are so pleased to be able to provide them with a unique way to leave the worries of daily life behind and bond with others who have shared similar struggles.”
Vantage treated 19 members of the Brothers for Life for a healing cruise to France in 2017, which took them to the shores of Normandy’s D-Day Beaches. They prayed at 149 Jewish graves at the American Cemetery and formed a special bond with travelers who served in the American military. Previous Heroes cruises have been offered to survivors of the Boston Marathon Bombings, 9/11 and United 93 families, and those who lost loved ones in the devastating Yarnell Hill wildfire in 2013. Most recently, Vantage honored 40 survivors of the deadly 2017 Las Vegas shooting.
“We are so thankful to Vantage Deluxe World Travel for giving our brotherhood this experience,” said Gil Ganonyan, Delegation Manger at Brothers for Life. “Our guiding principle is ‘if something good happens to you, give of yourself.’ During rehabilitation, this is especially important and so our brothers give mentorship, love, and hugs without condition to their fellow soldiers, and this trip will provide many opportunities for that.
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