Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has updated the official global cruise industry numbers confirming 2017 ocean cruise passenger growth and another positive year for the cruise industry. The industry has surpassed the 2017 ocean cruise passenger projections, reaching 26.7 million cruise passengers globally up from a projection of 25.8 million. For 2018, based on the new vessel launch schedule and expected regional deployment, CLIA is projecting another positive year-over-year growth for the industry with a passenger forecast of 28 million.
“Once again, the cruise industry has raised the bar and exceeded projections and expectations,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA. “I am proud to be a part of this dynamic industry that continues to grow and evolve bringing the cruise vacation experience to millions each year.”
Global Ocean Passenger Growth and Volume by Region
Asia, accounting for about 15 percent of total global ocean passenger volume in 2017, experienced a 20.5 percent increase last year in comparison to 2016. Domestically, the U.S. and Canada saw impressive ocean passenger growth in 2017 with a 5 percent increase over the prior year. Australia also experienced some positive growth at around 5 percent. Europe also remains strong with recording a 2.5 percent global passenger growth over 2016.
Demographics and Preferences of Global Ocean Passengers
New analytics also reveal the average age of global ocean passengers last year was 47 years old. These passengers also preferred cruising for an average of 7.2 days, 2 percent lower than the average cruise length in 2016.
For more information, the latest research findings and visuals, please click here.
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Costa Cruises is continuing to expand and renew its fleet of ships flying the Italian flag. At Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard, construction has begun on a new 135,500-ton ship with 2,116 cabins, due for delivery in 2020. Like its twin Costa Venezia, it will be designed specifically for the Chinese market.
Between 2019 and 2021, four new ships will enter service for Costa, with an overall increase in capacity of 43 percent. Costa Venezia, currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, is due to arrive in Feb. 2019. The flagship Costa Smeralda, the first cruise ship for the world market powered by LNG, built by Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, is due to arrive in 2019, with the sister ship of the Costa Venezia due in 2020, followed by that of the Costa Smeralda’s sister in 2021.
Starting in March 2019, the fleet innovation program also includes the return to the Mediterranean of the Costa Fortuna, a ship currently operating in Asia, which will offer one-week cruises departing from Genoa, Italy. At the end of 2019, the Costa neoRiviera will be transferred to the fleet of AIDA Cruises, the Costa Group’s German brand. After being remodeled and refurbished, the ship will be named AIDAmira, departing on its maiden voyage on Dec. 4, 2019, from Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
In addition, the Costa Victoria has been operating regularly in the Mediterranean since March 30, 2018, having undergone renovation work worth 11 million euro, carried out at the Marseilles Shipyards. The majority of the work was focused on the cabins, the internal and external public areas, with the creation of a new “tapas and paella bar.” In fact, during the next summer season, the ship will offer a week-long itinerary dedicated to the beaches and entertainment of the Balearic Islands and Spain.
Under this growth program, the number of ships in the Costa fleet will increase to 17 in 2021, compared with the current 14. Overall, the Costa Group currently has seven new ships on order, for a total investment of over six billion euros. In addition to Costa Cruises four new ships, there are three new LNG ships for the AIDA Cruises fleet, arriving between autumn 2018 and 2023.
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Carnival Cruise Line, which carries more active and retired military personnel than any other cruise operator, joined forces with Operation Homefront recently to host a “day date” event for 100 military couples aboard Carnival Miracle at Port Tampa Bay in Florida. Cruise Addicts was honored to be onboard to cover this event and learn more about these wonderful couples and how Carnival Cruise Lines and Operation Homefront are working together for these military couples. Let us know how you liked our video from the event in the comments below.
Operation Homefront is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to build strong, stable, and secure military families so they can thrive — not simply struggle to get by — in the communities they have worked so hard to protect.
Symphony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and largest ship. Deck four entertainment place foyer.
They said “YES!” Actors and avid Royal Caribbean International fans Carlos and Alexa PenaVega, along with their 17-month-old son Ocean, have accepted the honor to be Godfamily of the world’s largest cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean “popped the question” to the PenaVegas while the adventure-loving family was on board Symphony’s sister ship, Harmony of the Seas, to film Hallmark Channel’s Love at Sea – starring the couple opposite each other.
The young family has firsthand expertise on the distinct combination of high-energy experiences only found on Royal Caribbean, having celebrated a number of milestones on the award-winning Oasis Class ships, including getting engaged on Oasis of the Seas and spending their babymoon on Allure of the Seas. Royal Caribbean’s nearly 25-year relationship with Carlos began on his first cruise when he was just 4 years old, only to be beat by son Ocean, who sailed for the first time at 13 months. The newest ship to join the Royal Caribbean fleet, Symphony of the Seas redefines how guests of all ages stay and play, delivering the ultimate family adventure. The PenaVegas are globetrotters who inspire families as they explore and open themselves to a variety of the world’s most exciting cultures, foods and experiences.
“Carlos and Alexa have been an extension of our family for quite some time, and they truly personify our spirit of innovation and adventure in every way,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We’re very excited to welcome them and their son Ocean as the first-ever Godfamily to officially name a ship. Their passion for cruising and commitment to family make them the perfect choice to serve as the guiding spirits for Symphony of the Seas.“
“Words can’t describe the overwhelming emotions we’re feeling,” said Carlos PenaVega, alongside Alexa and Ocean. “”Royal Caribbean ships have been the backdrops to so many unforgettable moments in our life, and it means so much to us to be named Godfamily of Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean continues to make amazing memories with our family, and this next adventure will be our best yet.”
The PenaVegas are no strangers to the spotlight. Carlos shot to fame after starring on the highly successful Nickelodeon musical comedy BIG TIME RUSH as “Carlos Garcia.” Since then, he has starred in a number of feature films, as well as the highly acclaimed TV remake of GREASE: Live as “Kenickie.” Equally impressive, Alexa made a name for herself at an early age as “Carmen Cortez” in the Spy Kids film series. She has since starred in a number of feature films, TV series and originals, most recently Enchanted Christmas for Hallmark Channel. Together, Alexa, Carlos and Ocean boast a collective nine million followers across their social media platforms, and are the embodiment of the adventurous millennial family.
Symphony brings to life every family’s vacation dreams with a bold lineup of energy-filled, heart-pumping experiences. The new ship offers the chance to go head to head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag adventure, take the plunge down the Ultimate Abyss – the tallest slide at sea towering 10 stories high – or soak up some sun after getting drenched on epic waterslides and FlowRider surf simulators. After a day at play, families can dine at a variety of venues that will keep taste buds tingling, including Hooked Seafood, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade and El Loco Fresh for Mexican street-food fare, all before picking up the sweetest of treats at Sugar Beach. Adding to the excitement is the Ultimate Family Suite, a one-of-a-kind, two-story home away from home designed for both the young and young at heart, where families can enjoy a signature in-suite slide, private cinema, LEGO wall, Luckey Climber vertical maze for kids and whirlpool, among other premium services and amenities.
Symphonyof the Seas is homeported in Barcelona, Spain for the summer, visiting Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Provence, France; and Florence/Pisa, Rome and Naples, Italy as part of 7-night Mediterranean sailings. Beginning Nov. 9, Miami will become Symphony of the Seas’ year-round homeport, making Symphony the first new Oasis Class ship to sail from the cruise capital of the world and Royal Caribbean’s new state-of-the-art Terminal A. The ship’s 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises will feature visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the global cruise line’s newly revealed private destination in The Bahamas. For more information about Symphony, visit RoyalCaribbean.com/SymphonyoftheSeas.
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Carnival Cruise Line has announced that the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend will reposition to Port Tampa Bay in October 2019, providing consumers with an exciting seagoing vacation choice in that market.
Carnival Legend is undergoing an extensive two-week-long dry dock that is taking place in Portland, Ore. and is adding a variety of popular food and beverage concepts. These include Guy’s Burger Joint, developed in tandem with Food Network star Guy Fieri, the poolside RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar, and the Mexican-themed BlueIguana Cantina. Enhancements to Camp Ocean, a marine-themed kids play area, and Circle “C” catering to 12- to 14-year-olds, as well as the ship’s retail shopping outlets, are also being incorporated.
Following the dry dock, Carnival Legend will operate a summer 2018 schedule of seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle, then reposition to Australia with a series of departures from Sydney and Melbourne in the fall and winter. In summer 2019 she will return to Seattle for another series of seven-day Alaska cruises before moving to Tampa in the fall of 2019.
Prior to its Tampa deployment, Carnival Legend will also operate a series of longer-length Carnival Journeys voyages in 2019, including a nine-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver, a 16-day Hawaii voyage from Vancouver and 15-day Panama Canal transit that begins in Los Angeles and ends in Tampa, positioning the vessel for its new schedule from that port.
In addition to visiting some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, guests sailing on Carnival Journeys cruises enjoy unique on-board activities during which they can sample local cuisine and enjoy entertainment and cultural opportunities within the various ports of call. Activities focusing on topics such as photography, cooking, arts and crafts and celestial navigation, along with a 1980s-themed “Throwback Sea Day,” are also offered.
Vintage cars pass the Carnival Paradise while the cruise ship is docked in Havana, Cuba. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
3,002-Passenger Carnival Sunshine to be Largest Cruise Ship Ever to Call in Havana When It Introduces Cuba Service From Charleston Next Year
Carnival Cruise Line has expanded its cruises to Cuba with the addition of 23 three- to five-day sailings to Havana in 2019-20 aboard five different ships departing from four convenient East Coast homeports – Carnival Sunshine from Charleston, Carnival Triumph from Fort Lauderdale, Carnival Paradise from Tampa and Carnival Victory and Carnival Sensation from Miami.
The 3,002-passenger, 102,853-ton Carnival Sunshine will be the largest cruise ship to ever call in Havana while offering the first-ever cruise to Cuba from the Port of Charleston.
With the newly added voyages, Carnival Cruise Line will offer a wide variety of Havana departures across a broad spectrum of ships and itineraries, providing consumers with unprecedented choice in visiting this fascinating and sought-after destination.
A Cuban taxi driver, piloting a vintage car, pulls up to the El Morro Castle while the Carnival Paradise cruise ship is docked in Havana, Cuba. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
The new Cuba sailings include:
Carnival Sunshine (Charleston): a four-day cruise with a day-long call in Havana departing Nov. 21, 2019, along with eight five-day cruises featuring Havana and Freeport departing Jan. 6, Feb. 3 and 17, March 2, 16 and 30 and April 13, and 27, 2020.
Carnival Triumph (Fort Lauderdale): eight five-day cruises featuring an overnight call in Havana and a day-long call in Nassau departingDec. 14, 2019, and Jan. 11, Feb. 8 and 22, March 7 and 21, and April 4 and 18, 2020; and a five-day cruise featuring an overnight call in Havana and a visit to the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay departing Jan. 20, 2020.
Carnival Sensation (Miami): a four-day cruise featuring an overnight call in Havana and an extended visit to Nassau departing March 19, 2020, along with two five-day sailings with an overnight call in Havana and visits to Freeport and Nassau departing Feb. 15 and 29, 2020.
Carnival Paradise (Tampa): a five-day voyage departing Nov. 18, 2019, with an overnight call in Havana and a stop at Key West.
“Cuba has proven to be extremely popular with our guests and we’re delighted to provide even more opportunities to experience and explore this fascinating destination with these new voyages departing from four key East Coast homeports, including the first Cuba cruises from Charleston,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Guests sailing on Carnival’s Cuba cruises can select from nearly 20 different shore excursion experiences that showcase the island’s vibrant culture, majestic beauty and centuries-old architectural landmarks. A variety of Cuban-themed activities and entertainment, Havana-inspired deck parties, trivia contests and salsa lessons, are also offered. There’s also an onboard Cuba expert who discusses the country’s rich history and culture.
The visits to Havana comply with regulations of the U.S. Department of Treasury that permit travel operators to transport approved travelers to Cuba to engage in activities as defined by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Foreign Assets Control. Carnival’s shore excursions meet all U.S. government regulations and provide a convenient means for complying with the people-to-people requirements of cruises to Cuba.
To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line or to make a reservation, visit Carnival.com, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or contact any travel agent.
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Miami fleet operations center is third overall in Carnival Corporation’s global network
Carnival Cruise Line today previewed its new Fleet Operations Center (FOC) in Miami, the largest and most advanced in the cruise industry. The 35,000-square-foot facility is custom-designed for hands-on, around-the-clock monitoring and support of the line’s 26 cruise ships.
It was unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and interactive demonstration of its most innovative new high-tech features, which is anchored by a 74-foot-long video wall composed of 57 LED screens. The high-definition wall displays the status of all ships, including weather, itinerary updates, safety, engine, and environmental updates. Additionally, the status of ports, ship logistics, guest operations and a host of other functions are also monitored. The 24/7/365 system will support the work of cross-functional teams, including technical, nautical, port and guest operations, environmental operations and compliance, occupational safety, technical services, and other key areas. Seating is arranged in open “pods” aligned with Carnival’s ship classes, to invite constant collaboration, integration and streamlined communication between these and other departments, bringing together all areas of expertise into shared spaces.
“In designing the FOC, we combined best practices from the military, government and industry to achieve a generational leap in facility design, sophisticated technology and utilization, creating the largest and most advanced fleet operations center in the industry,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “Nothing is more important than the safety of our guests and crew, and this new facility enhances our already comprehensive approach to safety and operational excellence.”
Carnival built custom tools for use and integration into the FOC, such as the proprietary software applications “Neptune” and “Argos.” Developed in-house, Argos is an always-awake knowledge management tool that harnesses information from thousands of data points and overlays rules-based decision making, predictive alerting and queuing into one visual dashboard. The result is at-a-glance situational awareness across the fleet which significantly improves communication from ship to shore, enhances the safe passage of ships, improves operational efficiencies and supports overall environmental initiatives.
Neptune captures and provides analytics for dozens of distinct parameters for navigational safety from each ship, focusing on the following strategic areas to optimize safety, efficiency and overall fleet performance:
Nautical Operations & Safety – including the capability to see current radar visuals, stability conditions, automation, the Safety Management and Command System, and webcams from each ship, along with GPS location, routing, ship conditions, and weather data.
Procedural Optimization & Efficiency – including speeds, navigational data and engine conditions.
Sustainability – including fuel and energy usage, emissions levels, water, and waste management.
“The FOC brings together real-time information for decision making. Integrated shoreside teams support our shipboard officers to act quickly and decisively while significantly increasing the operational efficiency of our ships,” said Gus Antorcha, Carnival Cruise Line’s chief operating officer.
Carnival partnered with Constant Technologies, Inc., a design firm that specializes in building operations centers in the public and private sectors. The design includes an open concept floor plan with sustainable furnishings and ergonomic features such as the ceiling’s blue lighting which minimizes eye fatigue, all sit/stand desks and carpeting made from recycled fishnets. There are also multiple conference rooms that are linked via video screens to the main LED wall and are intended to be utilized by support teams that would assist during any incidents.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, left, walks with Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison alongside the Timeline Wall outside Carnival Cruise Line’s new Fleet Operations Center Thursday, May 10, 2018, at the Miami-based company’s headquarters. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
At the formal preview of Carnival Cruise Line’s new Fleet Operations Center, from left are William Burke, chief maritime officer for Carnival Corp.; Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president; and Micky Arison, Carnival Corp. chairman; Thursday, May 10, 2018, at the company’s Miami headquarters. Featuring a 74-foot-long video wall composed of 57 LED screens, the 35,000-square-foot facility is custom-designed for hands-on, around-the-clock monitoring and support of the line’s 26 cruise ships. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
At the formal preview of Carnival Cruise Line’s new Fleet Operations Center, from left are William Burke, chief maritime officer for Carnival Corp.; Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president; and Micky Arison, Carnival Corp. chairman; Thursday, May 10, 2018, at the company’s Miami headquarters. Featuring a 74-foot-long video wall composed of 57 LED screens, the 35,000-square-foot facility is custom-designed for hands-on, around-the-clock monitoring and support of the line’s 26 cruise ships. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
At the formal preview of Carnival Cruise Line’s new Fleet Operations Center, from left are William Burke, chief maritime officer for Carnival Corp.; Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president; and Micky Arison, Carnival Corp. chairman; Thursday, May 10, 2018, at the company’s Miami headquarters. Featuring a 74-foot-long video wall composed of 57 LED screens, the 35,000-square-foot facility is custom-designed for hands-on, around-the-clock monitoring and support of the line’s 26 cruise ships. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, left, walks with Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison alongside the Timeline Wall outside Carnival Cruise Line’s new Fleet Operations Center Thursday, May 10, 2018, at the Miami-based company’s headquarters. The photograph, at left, shows the late Ted Arison, Carnival’s founder. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line)
The South Florida-based facility is the third and largest in Carnival Corporation’s global FOC network, complementing those in Seattle, Washington, and Hamburg, Germany, where Neptune was first piloted. While the new location primarily is dedicated to Carnival Cruise Line, it includes the ability to monitor the entire 103-ship fleet among parent company Carnival Corporation’s nine operating lines and it can act as the FOC for any of them at a moment’s notice.
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Sissel Kyrkjebø, Godmother for the Viking Jupiter, posing for a picture during the Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Today Viking® announced its sixth ship – the 930-guest Viking Jupiter® – was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time that the new ship touched water. Scheduled for delivery in early 2019, the arrival of Viking Jupiter will officially make Viking the largest small ship ocean cruise line in the industry, only four years after launching its ocean business. Named in honor of the planet Jupiter, the ship will spend her maiden season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
“It is always a proud moment when a new ship touches water for the first time and is one step closer to welcoming guests onboard,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “As a Norwegian native, I am also particularly proud to announce today Sissel Kyrkjebø, my mother’s favorite singer and a longtime Viking partner, will be honored as godmother to Viking Jupiter and will preside over the ship’s naming ceremony in Oslo, Norway in June 2019.”
The traditional float out ceremony took place at the Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. Viking Jupiter’s float out began at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time and in keeping with maritime tradition, a madrina – a special woman of honor – assisted with the ceremony, first welding commemorative coins under the ship mast. Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø, who is widely considered one of the world’s top crossover sopranos and who has long been a cultural partner to Viking, served as Viking Jupiter’s madrina. She welded a commemorative coin representing her birth year, as well as the birth years for Chairman Hagen (1943) and Finse (2012), Hagen’s “grand dog.” A special coin, dated 1911, was also welded to represent Ragnhild “Mamsen” Hagen, the mother of Chairman Hagen and the woman after whom the onboard Norwegian deli Mamsen’s is named. Kyrkjebø then cut a cord to allow water to begin flowing into the ship’s building dock. Following a two-day process that will set Viking Jupiter afloat, the ship will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
Godmother Sissel Kyrkjebø and Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen at the Viking Jupiter Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Sissel Kyrkjebø, Godmother for the Viking Jupiter, with construction workers during the Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Fincantieri Director Giovanni Stecconi, Godmother Sissel Kyrkjebø, and Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen at the Viking Jupiter Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Fincantieri Director Giovanni Stecconi, Sissel Kyrkjebø, Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, Finse, Karine Hagen at the Viking Jupiter Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Viking Jupiter in dry dock and the Viking Orion at berth during the Float Out Ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard, Ancona, Italy.
Designed for discerning travelers with interests in history, art, music and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port and more overnights. On board, guests find serene Scandinavian spaces, where every room is both beautiful and functional, quiet and filled with light. With the most al fresco dining opportunities at sea, featuring regional cuisines and always-available American classics, Viking’s guests can truly dine in their destination. A focus on cultural enrichment brings immersive experiences ashore and on board. And only The Viking Way of Exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access experiences.
From now through May 31, 2018, Viking is offering U.S. residents 2-for-1 cruise fares on select 2018 ocean and river cruise itineraries, with additional savings on international air. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent.
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Norwegian Cruise Line debuted the highly-anticipated Norwegian Bliss, the sixteenth ship of the young and modern fleet, in New York City on Thursday, May 3. Amidst a sea of excitement and celebration, her arrival into the U.S. marks the beginning of a month-long inaugural celebration with her next stops in Miami, Los Angeles and lastly Seattle, where she will officially be christened on May 30.
Norwegian Bliss kicked off her two-day inaugural preview in New York City with brand partners, key media and industry representatives on Friday, May 4. Among the guests were Norwegian Bliss’ Godfather, Elvis Duran and the cast from the Z100 morning show who broadcasted live from the ship enlightening guests on all the experiences the ship has to offer. Throughout the day, guests were able to explore the ship, sample the cruise line’s newest culinary innovations, and experience all the amenities, including the longest go-kart race track at sea, the newly designed water slides, and an open-air laser tag arena. Additionally, Elvis Duran brought on indie-pop band, AJR, to give a special performance on board Norwegian Bliss. Later in the day, president and chief executive officer, Andy Stuart, presented Elvis Duran with a six-foot long model of Norwegian Bliss.
On the evening of May 4, following the Norwegian Cruise Line original musical theater show – ¡HAVANA! – Grammy-award winning singer, Albita, performed an exclusive show for guests in the Bliss Theater. One deck below, guests were kicking up their boots and enjoying country tunes by Camille Rae and her band at Q, the new Texas Smokehouse Barbecue restaurant on Norwegian Bliss.
Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio, two of the original members of The Four Seasons, which the Tony award-winning musical Jersey Boys is based on, made a special appearance at an intimate cocktail reception in the expansive Horizon Lounge in The Haven, home to the most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations, complete with a private lounge, courtyard and observation area. Following the event, they enjoyed the Norwegian Bliss premier of Jersey Boys in Bliss Theater.
“Norwegian has been committed to providing our guests with the finest entertainment at sea and we have elevated this commitment by introducing Jersey Boys and ¡HAVANA! on board Norwegian Bliss,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “It has been such an honor to have icons in the music and theater world partner with and join us on this inaugural tour.”
Norwegian Bliss departed the Big Apple yesterday morning and is cruising down to Miami for her next stop on her inaugural U.S. tour. During her preview cruise out of PortMiami, May 8 to 10, special guests will include the hull artist, Wyland, Godfather, Elvis Duran and members of The Morning Show, and celebrity car guru and host of Discovery Channel’s The Auto Firm, Alex Vega, who outfitted two of the Norwegian Bliss go-carts for the largest race track at sea.
Beginning June 2, Norwegian Bliss will cruise seven-day voyages to Alaska from Seattle with featured calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, British Columbia. She will then cruise select voyages to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles and for her fall/winter season, she will sail to the Eastern Caribbean from Miami. In 2019, she will return to New York City and sail seven-day voyages to the Bahamas and Florida, the Southern and Western Caribbean.
New 245-Day Itinerary Is Longest-Ever Continuous World Cruise
Viking® has announced its most comprehensive itinerary to date with the newUltimate World Cruise, which will span 245 days, six continents, 59 countries and 113 ports, with 22 port overnights and a full circumnavigation of the globe – making it the longest-ever continuous world cruise itinerary.
Departing from London on August 31, 2019 on Viking Sun®, this grand eight-month journey will mark Viking’s third voyage around the globe and will nearly double the length of the company’s previous World Cruise itineraries. Within the 245-day Ultimate World Cruise itinerary, Viking will also offer guests an option to sail one of two shorter segments during the cruise. Guest can choose between Viking World Treasures, a 127-day sailing from London to Los Angeles that visits 33 countries and 61 ports, or Viking World Wonders, a 119-day journey from Los Angeles to London that visits 29 countries and 55 ports. As with all Viking itineraries, guests receive a complimentary shore excursion in each port and free unlimited Wi-Fi; World Cruise guests also receive Business Class airfare and all gratuities and service fees, along with an extensive list of added-value included features in their cruise fare.
“For more than 20 years we have been offering guests the most culturally immersive journeys available in the industry and we are pleased to announce the most extensive itinerary in our history,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our World Cruises offer guests the rare opportunity to unpack once and explore dozens of the best destinations on earth – at a value that is unprecedented in the travel industry.”
Viking’s Ultimate World Cruise visits dozens of legendary cities, charming ports and idyllic islands in one epic journey. Included excursions in every port allow guests to immerse themselves in the world’s cultures, and The Viking Way of exploration offers additional, optional excursions that provide unmatched insight into Local Life, Working World and offer Privileged Access visits to cultural institutions. Overnight stays in 22 cities allow guests to delve deeper into destinations; and Viking’s Culture Curriculum® offers additional enrichment on board with regional entertainment and lectures, as well as learning opportunities as part of the Viking Resident program. Full details on the Ultimate World Cruise can be found on Viking’s website here; highlights include:
Greenwich: London at Your Door – Dock in the historic Royal Borough of Greenwich, London, which allows guests easy access to the regal capital’s iconic sights, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Peak of Brazilian Culture – One of the 22 overnight stays on this itinerary occurs in the historic city of Rio de Janeiro, where guests can witness the larger-than-life Christ the Redeemer statue or relax on the scenic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches of this coastal metropolis.
Ushuaia, Argentina: “End of the World” – Commonly referred to as the “End of the World,” guests will visit Ushuaia, a city perched on a steep hill on the southernmost tip of South America, and explore its lush scenery through excursions to the nearby Escondido and Fagnano Lakes or the Tierra del Fuego National Park, which was first inhabited by humans 10,000 years ago.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Vibrant Saigon – This eclectic city, home to a mix of modern skyscrapers, French colonial buildings and ornate palaces, offers a variety of experiences for guests, including the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Reunification Palace.
Mumbai, India: The Front Door to India – The bustling city of Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is the financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India. While in port, guests can learn about the iconic activist Gandhi at the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum and visit the Hanging Gardens, one of the prized few parks found in the busy metropolis.
Luxor, Egypt: Temples and Tombs – The site of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, Luxor is dense with historical monuments for guests to explore, including the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings & Valley of the Queens, which house the tombs of the Pharaohs and their wives.
Eight All-New Ports in South America – Guests will visit eight all-new Viking ports while in South America, including Roseau, Dominica, two ports in Chile (La Serena (Coquimbo) and Iquique), three ports in Peru (Arequipa (Matarani), Pisco (General San Martín) and Lima (Callao)) and finally guests will explore Quito (Manta), Ecuador and Panama City (Fuerte Amador), Panama.
Viking Sun
The Explorers Lounge
Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can accommodate 930 guests. Viking Sun is the fourth addition to Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet, which also includes Viking Star®,Viking Sea® and Viking Sky®, and was recently “named” in Shanghai during its first-ever sold out World Cruise. Viking will welcome two more sister ships in the next two years, including Viking Orion® in June 2018. With the arrival of Viking Jupiter® in 2019, Viking will be the largest small ship ocean cruise line. Ten additional ships are also planned for delivery starting in 2021, which could bring Viking’s ocean fleet to 16 ships by 2027. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean fleet features modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Highlights include:
All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from 270 sq. ft. Veranda Staterooms, all with private verandas, sweeping views of the destination and premium amenities that include king-size beds with luxury linens, generously proportioned closets, large interactive flat-screen LCD TVs with movies-on-demand, unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi and award-winning bathrooms with large showers, premium Freyja® bath products and heated floors.
Explorer Suites: The ships feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. With expansive views from wraparound private verandas, as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category on board, Explorer Suites offer the ultimate sanctuary for World Cruise guests.
Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.
LivNordic Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air. Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2017 named it one of the “5 best cruise ship spas.”
The Wintergarden: Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden. In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service.
Dining Choices: Viking’s ships offer eight dining options, all with no additional charge or fee—from fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and a variety of culinary options, and the World Café, which features international fare and regional specialties including a sushi and seafood cold bar—to intimate alternative dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and Manfredi’s, which features freshly prepared pastas and Italian favorites. The Pool Grill specializes in gourmet burgers, while afternoon tea and scones are available in the Wintergarden. Mamsen’s serves Norwegian deli-style fare, and complimentary 24-hour room service allows all guests to enjoy many signature dishes in the comfort of their stateroom. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ocean ships offer the most al fresco dining at sea. Additionally, The Kitchen Table specializes in regional dishes from market to table.
Cultural Enrichment: Viking experiences from ship to shore are designed for unparalleled access and cultural enrichment. Viking Resident Historians deliver high-level historical and cultural education specific to the journey, offering invaluable insight in to the rich history of the destination. Guest Lecturers who are experts in their fields shed light on the destination’s art, architecture, music, geopolitics, natural world and more. Destination Performances represent the most iconic cultural performing arts of the region—whether it be Italian opera or Portuguese fado. Resident Classical Musicians—pianists, guitarists, violinists and flautists—perform classical compositions throughout the ships. And Culinary Classes in The Kitchen Table, Viking’s onboard cooking school, focus on regional cuisine.
Nordic Inspiration: Even the smallest details take their inspiration from the exploratory spirit of the original Vikings, reflecting deeply held Nordic traditions. Light wood grains, touches of slate and teak, Swedish limestone and fragrant juniper appear throughout the public spaces and Spa. The Clinker-built design of the Viking Bar mirrors the construction style of the original Viking Longships. A Viking Heritage Center provides history and context from the Viking Age. And characters from Norse Mythology are subtly incorporated into the design, providing curious guests with inspiration to further explore Viking’s Nordic heritage.
Sustainable Features: Designed to be environmentally friendly, Viking’s ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hull and bow for maximum fuel efficiency and equipment that reduces exhaust pollution and meets the strictest worldwide environmental regulations.
The Viking Difference
Viking Ocean Cruises
Designed for discerning travelers with interests in history, art, music and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port and more overnights. On board, guests find serene Scandinavian spaces, where every room is both beautiful and functional, quiet and filled with light. With the most al fresco dining opportunities at sea, featuring regional cuisines and always-available American classics, Viking’s guests can truly dine in their destination. A focus on cultural enrichment brings immersive experiences ashore and on board. And only The Viking Way of Exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access experiences.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has updated the official global cruise industry numbers confirming 2017 ocean cruise passenger growth and another positive year for the cruise industry. The industry has surpassed the 2017 ocean cruise passenger projections, reaching 26.7 million cruise passengers globally up from a projection of 25.8 million. For 2018, based on the new vessel launch schedule and expected regional deployment, CLIA is projecting another positive year-over-year growth for the industry with a passenger forecast of 28 million.
Asia, accounting for about 15 percent of total global ocean passenger volume in 2017, experienced a 20.5 percent increase last year in comparison to 2016. Domestically, the U.S. and Canada saw impressive ocean passenger growth in 2017 with a 5 percent increase over the prior year. Australia also experienced some positive growth at around 5 percent. Europe also remains strong with recording a 2.5 percent global passenger growth over 2016.
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