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Princess Cruises Reveals 8th Cruise Wonder of the World

By
Dana Lawson
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Princess Cruises, in partnership with Condé Nast Traveler — one of the most respected magazines in travel — revealed that guests voted The Grand Canal of Venice as the “8th Cruise Wonder of the World.”

The announcement follows the 2015 “7 Cruise Wonders of the World,” which identified seven intriguing destinations, each spectacular in its own way, especially when arriving by cruise ship.

With more than 38,000 submissions, The Grand Canal of Venice received the most votes.  And of those who submitted this destination, one lucky entrant — Steve Turner of Calabasas, California — was selected as the winner of a Princess cruise vacation.

“Of all the remarkable destinations on the planet, some of the most captivating are especially suited to visit while on a cruise,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “We were honored to partner with Condé Nast Traveler to present the ‘7 Cruise Wonders of the World’ showcasing some of the world’s most iconic destinations. From its piazzas to its palaces, Venice’s beauty is fully revealed through an arrival by cruise ship, offering a perfectly fitting introduction to the ‘8th Cruise Wonder of the World’ – the Grand Canal.”

There is no more memorable way to arrive in Venice than cruising through the Guidecca Canal on Princess’ small ship, Pacific Princess. Guests take in the sites of the entire city linked by meandering canals of waterways beckoning for immersive exploration. The landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage Centre come into view, from the Byzantine spires of St. Mark’s Basilica to the mouth of the Grand Canal itself.

The Grand Canal of Venice joins the other Cruise Wonders of the World destinations including:

  1. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand – Sail into a world of surreal beauty, where the verdant flanks of snowcapped peaks plunge into the crystalline waters of ice-carved fjords.
  2. Panama Canal – Traverse the waterway that shaped the course of history by linking the two mightiest oceans on the planet in an engineering feat that remains breathtaking to this day.
  3. Shiretoko Peninsula, Japan – Embark on a magical tour that leads you through the wilds of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, where a variety of whales make their home, and the verdant coastline is nothing short of spectacular.
  4. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska – Stunning glaciers, pristine waterways, and watching for wildlife are a few of the things you experience while slowly cruising through dazzling Glacier Bay National Park.
  5. Christ the Redeemer, Rio do Janeiro, Brazil – A South American icon high above the city with arms outstretched embraces all of the city’s citizens and visitors.
  6. Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands – White powder sand beaches, perfect clear water, and sunny climate; it’s the island idyll we all long for.
  7. Hagia Sofia, Istanbul, Turkey – This beautiful Byzantine cathedral (from 532 AD) hovers silently over its surroundings, as it has for the last 1500 years.

Ovation of the Seas Broadens Horizons with 11,000-Piece Art Collection

By
Dana Lawson
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Royal Caribbean International’s newest “smart ship,” Ovation of the Seas, is setting sail from Southampton, U.K., this week on her 52-day Global Odyssey, visiting exotic ports of call from the Mediterranean to the Far East and beyond.

Guests onboard Ovation will experience these extraordinary ports while enjoying an 11,000-piece, $4.5 million dollar art collection that has been inspired by the words of Confucius: “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” The collection was curated by London-based Peter Millard and Partners and features contemporary art from artists from around the world.

“The true essence of a Royal Caribbean vacation is to broaden travelers’ horizons by introducing them to new and unexpected adventures, and that includes the art we feature onboard our ships,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Ovation of the Seas features unexpected and destination-inspired artwork, unique pieces and interactive art experiences that will surprise and delight our guests.”

33-Foot Panda and Cub Set Sail

“Mama and Baby,”
One of the ultimate photo ops onboard Ovation of the Seas is “Mama and Baby,” a larger-than-life commission designed by a U.K.-based artist Jo Smith.

One of the ultimate photo ops onboard Ovation of the Seas is “Mama and Baby,” a larger-than-life commission designed by a U.K.-based artist Jo Smith.

Perched atop the SeaPlex on deck 15, the piece depicts a mother panda and her cub, reaching out to one another. Considered a symbol of good luck and a national treasure in Chinese culture, the peaceful creatures with the distinctive black and white coat were curated with Ovation’s primarily Chinese guests in mind.

They are intended to bestow peace and prosperity on all who interact with them. The pandas are also a playful nod to the cruise line’s newly announced partnership with World Wildlife Fund, which focuses on ensuring the long-term health of the oceans its ships sail upon.

Mama and Baby together weigh approximately six-and-a-half tons. Mama is 10 meters high — or approximately 33 feet, from the deck to the top of the sculpture — while Baby is approximately three meters — or ten feet — tall.

Smart Art Includes First Moving Sculpture at Sea
It wouldn’t be a smart ship without smart art, and the Quantum class hallmark of high-tech pieces continues onboard Ovation with “Sky Wave.”

Created by New York-based Hypersonic and Boston-based Plebian Design, “Sky Wave” is the first ever kinetic moving sculpture at sea. The installation pivots and curves at different points to mirror the flow of both wind and water. Further inspiration was also taken from the ship’s movement, culminating in a piece that combines both maritime elements and engineering.

Each petal in “Sky Wave” is made of handcrafted fiberglass and varies in length to hone the flawless rolling sway. Located on deck 5, just in the Royal Esplanade, the eye-catching, carefully crafted art piece was commissioned specifically for Ovation.

Elevator Art Gets an New Look, Still Prime for Selfies
The elevator art on Quantum class is known for selfie-taking, and Ovation of the Seas is no exception. Ovation is elevating the selfie art game with all-new imagery from Chinese photographer Huainan Li’s series, “The World of the Senses.” The powerful series features the futuristic faces of women accented in metallic hues and sporting glasses that reflect a variety of whimsical scenes. The collection of 10 pieces is sure to surprise and delight guests each time they ride from deck to deck and pack an unexpected punch when the doors open. 

The Red Thread
One of the most iconic art locales on Quantum-class ships is the rotunda. Ovation does not disappoint as passersby can enjoy the work of Bieli Liu, a Chinese artist who played into the natural movement of the ship with an adaptation from her “Lure” series of installations. The sculpture was created to fit the rotunda location and represents an ancient Chinese legend depicting the red threads that connect Chinese children to their soulmates.

A disc may be connected to another, as a pair; and a pair of disks may sprout from a single thread. The installation is designed to suspend from the ceiling, forming a vibrant and energetic piece that responds to subtle air currents and movement as the red coils turn, and strands of thread become entangled.

Throughout the entire ship, guests will find curated art at every turn, all inspired by the exotic destinations Ovation will visit. Figures from artist Zheng Lu are located outside Two70. The sculpture – inspired by the artist’s father, a Chinese poet – weaves Chinese symbols together in a delicate fashion.

Heading into the Royal Theater, artist Dominic Harris engages show-goers with an interactive piece titled “Flutter Wall.” The 120-inch screen showcases butterflies on a black canvas that seemingly fly away as guests walk up for a closer view. It is a true surprise and delight experience akin to the additional installations that travelers can enjoy onboard.

Royal Caribbean Announces Godmother for Ovation of the Seas

By
Dana Lawson
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Today Royal Caribbean International announced that internationally-acclaimed Chinese actress, Fan Bingbing, will be the Godmother for Ovation of the Seas, the world’s newest and most technologically advanced cruise ship.

Dr. Zinan Liu, President of Royal Caribbean International – China and North Asia Pacific, made the announcement at a press conference at the Great Hall of People in Beijing.

Bingbing is the first Chinese celebrity selected to be the Godmother of an international cruise line and will officially name Ovation of the Seas at the ship’s inaugural ceremony in Tianjin, China, on June 24, 2016.

The second Quantum-class ship to be deployed in China, Ovation of the Seas, will sail its inaugural season from Tianjin after a one month mini season from Hong Kong before the ship repositions to its winter homeport in Australia in December 2016.

“We are delighted to welcome Fan Bingbing to the Royal Caribbean family as Ovation of the Seas’ godmother,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

Bayley added, “Bingbing is number one on the Forbes China ‘Celebrity 100’ list and has held that top position for three years, making her one of the most influential Chinese stars and in the world. She has received awards from many international film festivals and is recognized as a fashion icon. She is innovative, smart, ambitious, trendy and elegant, and that makes Bingbing the perfect person to be selected as the Godmother of our newest ship.”

 At the press conference, Fan Bingbing said, “My father was a singer in the art troupe of the Political Department of the Navy in China. My childhood was filled with the melodies of the sea, and I often dreamed about sailing out to sea for an adventure.  Now, thanks to this invitation from Royal Caribbean, my dreams will come true. I am really honored to be the first Godmother of Chinese nationality for such a prestigious international cruise line as Royal Caribbean International. And I like the name Ovation of the Seas, which in Chinese is interpreted as ‘praising the world and welcoming guests from everywhere’. As Godmother of Ovation of the Seas, I would like to invite more international guests to cruise from China on Ovation of the Seas.”

The role of Godmother is a lifetime title bestowed upon an individual, who figuratively presides over the ship and imparts good luck and divine protection over the vessel and all that sail aboard. Traditionally, Godmothers have celebrity status or even royal connections. Godmothers for Royal Caribbean ships have included: performer Gloria Estefan, actress Jane Seymour, comedian/actress Whoopi Goldberg and tennis champion Steffi Graf, to name a few.

Ovation of the Seas and her sister ship, Quantum of the Seas, are both Quantum class ships built with the most advanced technologies. The Quantum-class features unprecedented first-at-sea features and amenities, including the North Star, an observation capsule that gently rises more than 300 feet in the air to treat guests to breath-taking panoramic views; thrilling skydiving and surfing experiences; Two70, a daily social space which transforms into a multifunctional entertainment place at night; SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, that features basketball, roller skating, bumper cars and other entertainment.

There are 18 restaurants onboard with a variety of cuisines. The unique loft suites offer the most luxurious accommodations at sea, and Virtual Balcony staterooms are interior accommodations with large digital screens displaying real-time views which ensure that every room has a view.

Ovation of the Seas was officially delivered on April 8th 2016, and will sail from Southampton, United Kingdom, for Tianjin, China, on a 52-day Global Odyssey. She will begin her first homeport sailing season in China from Tianjin in June 2016.

Ovation of the Seas, together with Quantum of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, will make up the largest fleet of any cruise line sailing in China.

 

Carnival Cruise Line and NFL’s Houston Texans Announce Partnership

By
Dana Lawson
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Today Carnival Cruise Line, the largest cruise operator in Texas, announced an exclusive multi-year partnership with the NFL’s Houston Texans.

The partnership makes Carnival the official cruise line of the popular NFL franchise and expands the line’s presence in the fast-growing Texas market.

To celebrate the partnership and the arrival of Galveston’s newest cruise ship, Carnival and the Houston Texans are hosting the “Mom’s Dash to the Splash” event aboard Carnival Breeze when it makes its Texas debut on Mother’s Day, May 8.

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and linebacker Brian Cushing will lead two teams of local Texas moms selected via an online contest in an exciting head-to-head water slide race for charity.  The five-member teams will race to the finish on Carnival Breeze’s massive 312-foot-long Twister slide and exhilarating DrainPipe water slide attraction.

Hopkins will be competing for the Houston Food Bank and Cushing for the Brian Cushing Foundation.  The winning team will earn $10,000 and the runner-up $5,000 for their respective charity.

“Mom’s Dash to the Splash” will kick off with a pre-race pep rally with appearances by the Houston Texans cheerleaders and the Deep Steel Thunder Band.

Moms who want be a part of  “Mom’s Dash to the Splash” (#MomsDashSplash) and get a chance to zip down Carnival Breeze’s heart-pounding water slides can enter a contest hosted on www.houstontexans.com/carnival that begins today and runs through April 25, 2016.

To enter, contestants simply tell their story in 250 words or less why their mom (or themselves) deserve the opportunity to be a member of Team Hopkins or Team Cushing.

Eight lucky moms will be selected by a team of judges based on their entry’s creativity and originality.  Contest winners will enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day brunch on board Carnival Breeze prior to the water slide race and a chance to win a free Carnival Breeze cruise for two.

The winning race team will also receive an MVP Game Day package to an upcoming Houston Texans home game.  For additional information, as well as full contest rules and regulations, visit www.houstontexans.com/carnival.

“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the arrival of the Carnival Breeze to Galveston than by officially kicking off our partnership with the Houston Texans and hosting this fun event that showcases the ship’s spectacular WaterWorks aqua park and raises much-needed funds for two terrific charitable organizations,” said Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president.

“Carnival Breeze is a fantastic addition to the Galveston market and will provide our guests with fun, memorable vacations and our valued travel agent partners with an exciting option for their clients,” she added.

“We are extremely proud to partner with such a world-class organization,” said Greg Grissom, Vice President of Corporate Development of the Houston Texans. “Family is one of the most important cornerstones of our organization, and no one embodies family better than Carnival Cruise Line. On this Mother’s Day, we look forward to celebrating our families and starting a great partnership with a terrific organization.”

As the official cruise line of the Houston Texans, Carnival will bring even more fun to the Lone Star State with unique experiences both on board and ashore planned for the coming year.

Additionally, in keeping with its longstanding tradition of supporting its homeport communities, Carnival will team up with the Houston Texans on various community service initiatives to be announced at a later date.

The partnership with the Houston Texans reinforces Carnival Cruise Line’s position as the most popular cruise line in Texas with three year-round ships carrying more than 650,000 passengers annually.

In addition to Carnival Breeze, which launches seven-day Caribbean service from Galveston beginning May 8, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Freedom offer four- to seven-day voyages visiting popular ports in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Mexico.

Ten Myths About Cruise Vacations

By
John Shallo
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If preparing for your first cruise, you have probably heard a lot of things about cruise vacations. Some are probably true and should be taken seriously, like safety information and tips on buying a cruise. Some are probably myths, like the Easter Bunny or walking the plank . Today we look at ten common myths about cruise vacations.

1. REAL travelers don’t cruise.

Sure, they backpack, walk, fly, drive or tele-transport. I get it. They’re cooler than me. Great. Have a good time, but don’t rub it in my face. I’m glad you can take a month to trek through the mountains or embed yourself with a tribe of monkeys. I can’t. Mr Average American has seven days of vacation a year that they can actually devote to a real vacation. Some may get more time than that but they use it up by slapping a day on the front or back of a weekend for a mini-vacation to keep from strangling their co-workers. Others burn vacation time via giving it up because their company cut back on benefits and they have to use it as sick days from time to time. On a seven-day cruise I can see up to seven different places if I have the energy and that’s what I want to do or just a couple if I want to take it easy. On that same cruise ship, I know that I will be safer than pretty much any other vacation style because cruise ships can and do avoid places where it is not safe to be on the ground, where you are Mr Backpacker.

2. Cruises are easy to book, I don’t need a Travel Agent

Tell that to the people who find out later that those who used a travel agent paid less, got more and had a better time once on the ship. Actually, you don’t need a regular Travel Agent at all and you sure don’t need an Internet Cruise Broker (think Used Car Salesman). Travel Agents, the kind that sell all kinds of travel to anyplace on the planet, are ill-equipped to handle cruise vacations that are changing daily in price, itineraries and ships offered. Internet Cruise Brokers have the unique ability to accept your money and forget your name at exactly the same time. What you need is a Travel Expert that specializes in cruise vacations. They are out there, you just have to find them. They most often don’t cost you a penny either. Actually, they most often save you money so just on a dollars and cents issue, they are the way to go. Cheapskates: Get over yourself. Just because you have the ability to “Click to Book” does not mean you should.

3. You will get bored.

You might get bored on a cruise, but chances are greater you will get exhausted. The range of activities for both the passive and active is wide. I entered (and won!) a trivia contest on presidential history and I entered (but lost) one on old television show theme songs. My family and I loafed by the pool, danced in a nightclub and watched live entertainment. I don’t get that on the couch at home. Cruise ships now have everything from miniature golf courses to wave pools. When we needed downtime we vegged-out in our cabin and screened an in-room movie, hung out on deck watching the ocean roll on by or, get this: read a book.

4. You will have to dress up for dinner.

This is 2016, not 1965. Most of the time you don’t have to be formally dressed for dinner in the main restaurant, although periodic formal nights are scheduled. On a seven-night cruise, there are two. One can always opt out by going to the buffet or grab something quick at a variety of dining venues or room service. We ate at the buffet on one formal night, not because we didn’t want to dress up but because we had a late dinner seating and an early docking the next morning.

5. You’ll get claustrophobic.

You might but its not likely. The cabins are not as big as they look in pictures but they are quite efficiently designed and pleasant to be in. If being in small spaces is a problem, book an Oceanview cabin with a window or a balcony cabin. Most cruise lines’ standard cabins range from 140 to 150 square feet; some are as small as 100 square feet. As for the actual ships, they literally are floating resorts, with up to 17 decks and innumerable public rooms. If you feel uneasy on a ship, it is probably not claustrophobia.

6. Cruise costs are all-inclusive.

They aren’t. I really don’t even know where that came from. They never have been. The cruise cost includes your cabin and twice-daily service for it, meals and entertainment. Drinks, including non-alcoholic ones, are extra on most lines. Shore excursions and Spa Treatments are extra. Go to one of the ship’s extra restaurants and you will probably pay extra. Ship photographers are always ready with camera in hand, and the photos are extra. Most cruise lines have trashed the old empty envelope system for tips and switched to automatic service charges. That’s $10- $12 per day per person, regardless of age, depending on the cruise line. Still, add it all up at the end, divide it by the number of days and odds are you would have paid much more for a similar vacation minus the ship.

7. Cruise shows consist of cheesy, grade-B entertainment.

We could respond to this one with “OK but surely Royal Caribbean on the Tony Awards must be a step in the right direction?” and end this right there. Still, let’s press on…

First of all, the quality of live entertainment is subjective. On a recent cruise we attended live shows every night. We saw two Vegas-style revues, two comedians, an ice skating show and one hypnotist. The talent was as professional and enjoyable as anything we have seen in theaters that don’t float. Each of the revue cast members could dance and belt out a song. The hypnotist and comedians were laughable, but they were meant to be. That”s pretty much the minimum experience you will have.

Cruise lines are bumping up the quality of entertainment options, with everything from Broadway shows on board Royal Caribbean to branded and flexible entertainment offerings like adding the influence of comedian George Lopez on Carnival Cruise Line.

8. The ships have stabilizers, so you will never feel any motion.

Yes, you will indeed feel motion. For the vast majority of people it is not enough motion to disrupt your cruise, make you sick or anything like that. Bonine, the over the counter motion discomfort medicine is my favorite to recommend because no one has ever told me “Chris, that stuff did not work and I was sick as a dog the whole time” That’s good enough for me. Get the generic brand of it though at Wal-Mart for a fraction of the price of the name brand. Actually, you are more apt to be rocked to sleep by the gentle lullaby motion of the ship rocking from side to side or front to back. But you will feel movement. And that is not a bad thing. Get over it.

Rule of Thumb on motion and you: If you get sick riding in a car, you will probably get sick on a cruise ship.

9. You have to sit with people you don’t know at dinner and you’re stuck with them

Nope. Even if you are on a group cruise you can request a different dining time, smaller table, or specific location. Dining room requests, though, are just that: requests. The cruise line does not guarantee anything in that area. The Maitre d’ on the ship, though, is the king of the dining room and can make any of your requests reality. No matter what, going to the dining room to check your table assignment when you first get on the ship is a must. If you don’t like it, there will be a Maitre d’ there who can change it if you are nice about it. If you are a jerk they probably won’t change anything and will put a little note by your name with a skull and cross bones for the kitchen staff to see. Ok maybe not but a few bucks in the right palm can be one of the best investments you will make on the cruise.

10. Everyone gains a ton of weight on cruises

True in some cases. But it mainly depends on what you choose to eat. Today’s ships have a wide variety of dining options with something for everyone. You will not gain weight on a cruise unless you want to. The crew does not hold you down and force-feed you nor are there only high-fat junk food selections on the menu. The culinary staff on the cruise ships these days write cookbooks and feature award-winning chefs who produce the latest trendy food as well as homestyle old-fashioned favorites, all on the same menu.

So don’t worry about icebergs, torpedoes, gaining weight, how much it will cost or where you will go all that much. A cruise vacation is a great way to spend your time if you do it right. More on “doing it right” next time.

You may have other concerns/myths rolling around in your head. The grounding of Costa Concordia is one that has caused a great deal of concern for those who have never sailed before. On the up side, those who have cruised before are not all that concerned about it but will probably keep their eyes and ears open just a bit more when safety information is given.

Ovation of the Seas Joins Royal Caribbean International Family

By
Dana Lawson
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Ovation of the Seas - Delivery
Ovation of the Seas
Royal Caribbean family officially took delivery of its 24th ship, Ovation of the Seas, in a ceremony held today in Bremerhaven, Germany.

There’s a new member of the Royal Caribbean family as the global cruise line officially took delivery of its 24th ship, Ovation of the Seas, in a ceremony held today in Bremerhaven, Germany.

Ovation of the Seas is the third Quantum-class ship built at Meyer Werft and together with her sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, features unprecedented first-at-sea experiences and amenities.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s Chairman and CEO Richard D. Fain received the new ship from Meyer Werft Yard’s Managing Partner Bernard Meyer at the official handover ceremony.

“Ovation of the Seas is magnificent,” said Richard. “Our thanks to the Meyer Werft team for their ongoing partnership in designing and building awe-inspiring ships with us.”

“It’s wonderful to welcome Ovation of the Seas to the Royal Caribbean family of ships,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We have once again introduced one of the most technologically advanced cruise ships and the very first that has been built for the China market – a market we continue to demonstrate our commitment to expanding. Quantum Class has redefined the status quo, and we are excited for our guests in China and Australia to enjoy their extraordinary vacations onboard this stunner.”

Ovation of the Seas
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s Chairman and CEO Richard D. Fain, left, officially receives the new ship from Meyer Werft Yard’s Managing Partner Bernard Meyer, right, in a signing ceremony held in Bremerhaven, Germany

Ovation of the Seas will now sail to Southampton, U.K., where the ship will offer a series of short getaways before she sets sail on her 52-night “Global Odyssey” culminating in the arrival to her homeport in Tianjin, China. She will begin her first homeport sailing season in China from Tianjin in June 2016. Ovation, together with Quantum of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, will make up the largest fleet of any cruise line sailing in China.

 

The Quantum class of ships and are built with the most advanced technology. They feature first-at-sea amenities including: the North Star, an observation capsule that gently rises more than 300 feet in the air to treat guests to breathtaking panoramic views; thrilling skydiving and surfing experiences; Two70, a daily social space which transforms into a multifunctional entertainment place in the evening; and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, which includes basketball, roller-skating, bumper cars, and more.

Each ship offers 18 restaurants onboard with a variety of cuisines to choose from as well as the industry’s most relaxing and luxurious accommodations at sea with unique loft suites and groundbreaking virtual balcony staterooms — interior accommodations that feature large digital screens displaying real-time views, ensuring that every room has a view.

Ovation spans 18 decks, encompasses 168,666 gross registered tons, carries 4,180 guests at double occupancy and features 2,091 staterooms.

Royal Caribbean Unveils “Multi-Day Adventures Program”

By
Dana Lawson
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Calling all culture-seeking travelers looking to delve deep into a new destination; Royal Caribbean International has uncovered more adventurous experiences in some of the world’s most remarkable places.

The experiences are part of the cruise line’s new “Multi-Day Adventures” program, which offers vacationers immersive two-day overnight explorations that include even more adventure and provide guests with the chance to go further, stay longer, and discover more.

From the Caribbean and Europe to Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Multi-Day Adventures have been specially designed to take care of all the details for travelers.

These rich adventures include fully guided tours of the destinations’ most iconic and inspiring places, dining, airfare (where applicable), highly rated hotel accommodations, and transportation. Guests embarking on a Multi-Day Adventure will begin their experience as they depart the ship mid-cruise and then spend the extended time immersing in the local culture before rejoining their Royal Caribbean ship at the next port of call.

Some highlights of the Multi-Day Adventures include:

  • Tikal and Ceremonial Show – Beginning with a flight from Belize to Guatemala (or from Honduras to Guatemala), guests will discover the ancient Mayan capital on an overnight tour; embark on an expedition into the jungle to walk the ruins of the Mayan empire at Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and enjoy an authentic Mayan ceremonial experience, all before boarding their return flight to meet their Royal Caribbean ship.
  • Agrolida Region and Katakolon – This two-day excursion takes travelers back in time to Greece’s famous citadels. Culture-seekers will discover the Acropolis of Athens and the Ancient Mycenae site of Argolida; stay the evening in the Mediterranean nation’s first capital, Nafpolio; and travel to Ancient Olympia, where the first Ancient Olympic Games took place.
  • Bangkok – This experience in the “City of Angels” brings the sights, sounds. and flavors of Thailand’s historic capital to vacationers’ fingertips. The two-day itinerary features adventures into the city’s canals and river tributaries via motor launch and inspiring visits to iconic monuments and sites including the Wat Traimit, also known as the “Temple of the Golden Buddha”, the Asiatique riverfront, Wat Arun – the “Temple of Dawn”, and the Grand Palace — adorned with murals, gilded spires, and unique architectural design.

Royal Caribbean’s adventures are designed for the traveler who enjoys deep, intimate experiences combined with the comfort of knowing every detail has been arranged.

Princess Cruises Announces First-Ever “Discovery at Sea Tours of the Year”

By
Dana Lawson
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Princess Cruises announced the first-ever “Discovery at Sea Tours of the Year” award, honoring top-ranked Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions in Alaska and Europe from the 2015 cruise season.

Winning tour operators were recognized at a special ceremony aboard Royal Princess in Ft. Lauderdale to honor the best shore excursion experiences in various ports in these popular cruise destinations.

Discovery and Animal Planet excursions debuted in Europe and Alaska in spring 2015 as part of the cruise line’s Discovery at Sea program, an exclusive partnership designed to create memorable vacation experiences for the whole family.

Discovery and Animal Planet exclusive excursions are unique tours that cannot be booked independently and are available only through Princess Cruises. Discovery and Animal Planet Recommended excursions provide enriching and immersive once-in-a-lifetime experiences and show guests the most fascinating animals around the globe.

“Getting out to truly experience Alaska and Europe is so important for our guests visiting these magnificent destinations,” said Bruce Krumrine, Princess Cruises vice president of shore excursions. “Within our popular Discovery at Sea partnership and some of the best tours in Alaska and Europe, these top-rated local tour operators play an integral role in providing our guests with unforgettable cruise vacation moments, and we’re pleased to recognize their outstanding contributions.”

“The ‘Discovery at Sea Tours of the Year’ awards embody our partnership’s shared values and goals of providing Princess guests with culturally rich and immersive vacation experiences focused on adventure, exploration, knowledge and entertainment, while igniting their curiosity,” said Robert Marick, vice president, licensing and global location based entertainment, Discovery Communications.

The 2015 “Discovery at Sea Tours of the Year” were the highest guest-ranked tours out of 295 options in Europe and 55 in Alaska, and include:

Alaska
Discovery Recommended  – Juneau
Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery 
Tour Operator: Wings Airways

Animal Planet Exclusive – Skagway
Kroschel Wildlife Refuge 
Tour Operator: Chilkat River Adventures

Europe
Discovery Exclusive – St Petersburg
Hermitage, Gold Room, Peterhof & Catherine 
Tour Operator: Arctur Travel LTD

Discovery Recommended – Belfast
Giant’s Causeway & Antrim Coast
Tour Operator: Excursions Ireland

Discovery Recommended – Naples
Ultimate Bay of Naples: Pompeii, Positano & Amalfi Coast
Tour Operator: Aloschi Bros

Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions launched in Alaska and Europe in spring of 2015. Now more than 800 tours are available worldwide, including in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii.

Six Iconic Rivers Made Easily Accessible by River Cruising

By
Dana Lawson
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Mekong River

Sailing on an iconic river aboard a river cruise is the perfect way to leisurely explore several countries and discover multiple cultures in a matter of days.

According to Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) 2016 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook, the demand for the river cruise is at an all-time high.  As of 2015, there were 169 river CLIA member cruise ships on the water with 18 additional ships ordered for 2016.

“These intimate voyages allow passengers to experience multiple, memorable destinations in a short amount of time all while traveling the world’s most famous, historic rivers,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA. “As the demand for river cruising grows, there are now more experiences and destinations than ever before. In addition to cruising through Europe on the Rhine or Danube rivers, passengers can take river cruises through South America, Asia, Africa, and even the U.S., offering access to some of the most authentic and treasured travel destinations in the world.”

From Egypt to Asia, here are six iconic rivers around the world made easily accessible by river cruising:

  • The Magic & Mystery of the Nile: One of the world’s most famous waterways, spanning more than 4,000 miles, the Nile River offers unbelievable sights of ancient temples, lush rainforests and impressive mountains. Avalon Waterways offers a nine-day river cruise from Cairo that takes cruisers on a voyage through 5,000 years of history, visiting temples built in the time of Cleopatra, the famed Sphinx, and the Great Temples of Giza.
  • The Battles & Beauty of the Mekong: Stretching through thousands of miles of authentic Asian rice paddies and fish farms, the Mekong River’s beautiful deltas have been site to famous battles, specifically during the Vietnam War. Now, the peaceful waterways provide the perfect atmosphere for cruising. New options in Vietnam and Cambodia include AmaWaterways’ 15-night Mekong upstream and downstream itineraries. The voyage takes cruisers along the fabled Mekong River for an unforgettable authentic experience exploring rural villages, floating markets, and a Buddhist monastery. The itinerary includes Ho Chi Minh City with additional stops in Siem Reap, Hanoi. and Ha Long Bay.
  • The “River Sea” of the Amazon: The longest river in South America and world’s largest resource of fresh water, the Amazon offers thousands of years of tropical history and beauty. Seabourn offers the chance to blend the beauty of both river and ocean, including sailing along the iconic Amazon River with a 15-day Amazon & Caribbean Isles Cruise. This cruise takes passengers on a luxurious journey along the Amazon with excursions into the jungle and beyond.
  • A Trek through American History on the Mississippi: The Mississippi River is drenched in rich American history weaving through 1.2 million square miles and multiple states. Adventurers on American Cruise Lines sail on a Mississippi River Cruise paddlewheeler journey taking them along the famed domestic waters and through 10 states. Guests experience the jazz of New Orleans, French-inspired beauty of Natchez, the Gateway Arch of St. Louis, and more.
  • A Rise Along the Rhine: Known for enchanting castles and dramatic landscapes, the Rhine River has been crossed by the likes of Julius Caesar and George Patton. CroisiEurope’s Christmas Market Cruise celebrates the holidays along the Rhine, visiting multiple Christmas markets in the European capital of Strasbourg, the “Christmas Cities” of Nuremberg and Rudesheim which feature the Christmas Market of Nations. Tauck’s Rhine and Moselle cruise blends the beauty of two historic rivers and allows passengers to experience the Netherlands to Switzerland, through Germany, France, and Luxembourg. Cruisers can pay tribute to the fallen in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; view medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel, Trier, and Cochem; and experience an exclusive dinner at a medieval moated castle in Germany.
  • The Gorgeous Ganges: Boasting the highest population of any river basin in the world and winding through India and Bangladesh, the sacred Ganges River is not only gorgeous but constantly changing. The river is slowly changing its path, naturally shifting 2.5 kilometers since 1990 so the river offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime course. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection exclusively offers a chance to sail this fertile and unique waterway  with India’s Golden Triangle & Sacred Ganges river cruise and tour. Highlights include Delhi’s Humayun’s Tomb, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, Jaipur’s City Palace, Mother Theresa’s home and tomb in Kolkata, Verdic temple in Mayapur, and Kalna’s Rajbari Temples.

“River cruising is the ultimate experience offering an immersive, cultural and pampered vacation, complete with exceptional land excursions and vessel amenities,” D’Aoust continued. “Travelers can sail on storied waterways and discover new pockets of the world.”

Keel Laying Ceremony Held for Norwegian Joy

By
Dana Lawson
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Norwegian Cruise Line and executives of Meyer Werft celebrated the keel laying ceremony today in Papenburg, Germany, for Norwegian’s first ever ship styled exclusively for Chinese guests, arriving next summer.

During the ceremony, the first of 80 blocks that will comprise the 168,800 gross ton Norwegian Joy was lifted into the covered building hall, officially marking the start of the ship’s assembly. Norwegian Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) executives were present in the hall and laid the traditional “lucky coin” before the first block, weighing 680 tons, was placed by a massive crane.

“We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the keel laying for Norwegian Joy today with our partners at Meyer Werft,” said Norwegian Cruise Line President and Chief Operating Officer Andy Stuart. “Norwegian Joy is yet another evolution for Norwegian Cruise Line and we know the outstanding work of the teams at Meyer Werft will truly make her a first class vessel.”

A special commemorative coin featuring the ship was created to celebrate the day’s activities. In a ceremony held at the XingTian Temple at Fang Ta Park in Shanghai on March 31, NCLH China executives gathered for a traditional prayer and pledge ceremony to the Chinese goddess of the sea, Mazu 媽祖, to bring blessings to the coins, the ship, and all of the guests who sail on her.  The same coin was then placed under the block during the ceremony.

“We are carefully designing every element of Norwegian Joy, from her VIP accommodations to gourmet dining venues, outstanding recreation and entertainment choices, and family-friendly features, to create a “First Class at Sea” experience that is completely focused on exceeding the expectations of our Chinese guests,” said NCLH China President David Herrera.

In addition to the ceremony, Norwegian Cruise Line also announced the appointment of David Herrera as President, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China. Previously Senior Vice President Strategy and Business Development for NCLH, David will assume new responsibilities for the sales, marketing, public relations, and operations for all three brands within the NCLH portfolio in his new role. To lead the launch efforts for Norwegian Joy, Mr. Herrera, his wife Patty and their three young sons will be relocating to Shanghai this summer.

Home porting in Shanghai & Tianjin (Beijing), Norwegian Joy was designed by the team at NCL to provide “First Class at Sea” experiences specifically for the Chinese traveler, with onboard amenities that cater to the unique vacation desires of Chinese guests.

Built at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, the ship features German precision engineering to the highest possible standard, all while offering superior customization for the culture and preferences of Chinese guests along with the exciting and innovative features found on NCL’s most recent vessels.

“This steel block for Norwegian Joy marks another milestone of our successful partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line,” said Bernard Meyer, Managing Director of Meyer Werft. “We are thrilled to build a totally new ship which is designed for the fast growing Chinese market and will be delivered in just 12 months.”

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