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Carnival Valor’s Extensive Makeover Completed

By
Dana Lawson
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In preparation for its new year-round program of three- and four-day voyages from Port Canaveral kicking off later this year, Carnival Valor has completed an extensive renovation that added a variety of popular dining and bar concepts.

The new spaces were added during a dry dock that began April 23 and ran through May 8, 2016 and include:

  • Guy’s Burger Joint: a free-of-charge poolside venue developed in partnership with Food Network personality Guy Fieri which serves hand-crafted burgers and fresh-cut fries in an atmosphere that celebrates the chef’s California roots and love of car culture
  • RedFrog Rum Bar: a poolside  bar offering the quintessential Caribbean vacation vibe with refreshing Caribbean rum-based frozen drinks and beers, including Carnival’s own ThirstyFrog Red
  • BlueIguana Tequila Bar: a fun and festive outdoor watering hole offering a laid-back Mexican-themed atmosphere and tequila-based frozen drinks and beers, perfect for chillin’ by the pool
  • BlueIguana Cantina: a complimentary poolside Mexican eatery where guests can enjoy authentic, freshly made burritos and tacos on homemade tortillas, as well as an elaborate toppings and salsa bar
  • RedFrog Pub: at this tropics-inspired watering hole, guests can enjoy the Caribbean’s best rums and beers – including, of course, Carnival’s own ThirstyFrog Red – while soaking up the distinct British-West-Indies-meets-Key-West ambiance
  • Alchemy Bar: a vintage-themed cocktail “pharmacy” that’s the go-to spot for guests seeking a unique experience with mixologists who “prescribe” concoctions from different elixirs and ingredients or guests’ own custom-created cocktails
  • SkyBox Sports Bar: a sports  lovers’ paradise where guests can catch live sporting events and check out scores on the real-time 24/7 sports ticker
  • Cherry On Top: the “sweetest spot on board” which celebrates the joys of simple indulgences with bins of bulk candy, fun fanciful gifts and novelties, custom apparel, and more

President of Carnival Cruise Line Christine Duffy said, “Carnival Valor offers a convenient and affordable choice from Port Canaveral, with a host of exciting new innovations as well as popular features like a reservations-only steakhouse and nearly 600 balcony staterooms – rare for a short cruise itinerary.”

“We’re sure our guests are going to love all the new features and our travel agent partners will appreciate this exciting new cruise vacation option departing from the Space Coast,” Duffy added.

Carnival Valor kicks off its year-round three- and four-day Bahamas cruise schedule from Port Canaveral Oct. 30, 2016.  On this route, three-day cruises depart Thursdays and call at Nassau while four-day voyages depart Sundays and feature Nassau and Freeport.

Carnival Valor will also offer a series of three- to five-day cruises in May 2016, as well as a program of five- and eight-day departures through October 2016.  The three- to five-day sailings will take place throughout May, visiting popular ports like Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Half Moon Cay, Nassau and Freeport. The ship will also offer a one-time six-day cruise departing May 15 featuring Nassau, Amber Cove and Grand Turk.

The five- to eight-day voyages will run June 4 to Sept. 30, 2016.  Five-day cruises visit Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and Freeport.  Eight-day eastern Caribbean cruises call at Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Kitts and St. Maarten and eight-day southern Caribbean sailings include Aruba, Grand Turk and Curaçao or Bonaire.

Reservations are currently being accepted for Carnival Valor.

Galveston Arrival of Carnival Breeze Celebrated with Fun Mother’s Day Event

By
Dana Lawson
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Houston Texans players DeAndre Hopkins (left) and Brian Cushing (right) competed with local moms for charity.

To celebrate Carnival Breeze’s arrival at the Port of Galveston, Carnival Cruise Line — Texas’ largest cruise operator — and the NFL’s Houston Texans  hosted “Moms Dash to the Splash” yesterday.

The on-board event officially kicked off the recently announced partnership between Carnival and the popular NFL franchise and featured Houston Texans players DeAndre Hopkins and Brian Cushing competing with local moms in a water slide race for charity.  It also included a traditional maritime plaque exchange between Carnival Breeze Captain Vincenzo Alcaras and Port of Galveston’s Director Mike Mierzwa.

Following a spirited pep rally on Lido Deck by the Houston Texans Cheerleaders and the Deep Thunder Band, local Texas moms — selected via an online contest — competed with Cushing and Hopkins in an exciting head-to-head water slide race on Carnival Breeze’s massive 312-foot-long Twister slide and exhilarating DrainPipe water slide attraction.

Team Cushing won and received $10,000 for the Brian Cushing Foundation, which assists and supports military families. As runner-up, Team Hopkins received $5,000 for Houston Food Bank, with all participating moms receiving a free Carnival cruise.   The moms and race spectators were also treated to a delicious Mother’s Day brunch prior to the race.

President of Carnival Cruise Line Christine Duffy said, “Galveston is one of our most popular homeports, and what better way to celebrate the arrival of Carnival Breeze on Mother’s Day than with a fun event with our newest partners, the Houston Texans, that honors local moms and benefits two great Houston-area charities.”

Brian Cushing said, “It was great to participate in ‘Moms Dash to the Splash,’ and receive $10,000 for my charity.  Mother’s Day is about spending time with family and having fun, and today was a great way to do just that aboard the Carnival Breeze.”

The arrival of Carnival Breeze to Galveston further bolsters Carnival Cruise Line’s position as Texas’ most popular cruise line 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 later today, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Freedom offer four- to seven-day voyages visiting popular ports in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Mexico.

Viking Sea Christening Ceremony – Photo Gallery

By
John Shallo
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Viking Sea Christening Ceremony
Viking Sea, officially a small ship, becomes largest ocean ship to be christened in London” “Viking Cruises christens its second of six planned ocean ships in Greenwich” in London, Britain May 5, 2016 This image is copyright Suzanne Plunkett 2016©. For photographic enquiries please call Suzanne Plunkett or email suzanne@suzannelunkett.com This image is copyright Suzanne Plunkett 2016©. This image has been supplied by Suzanne Plunkett and must be credited Suzanne Plunkett. The author is asserting his full Moral rights in relation to the publication of this image. All rights reserved. Rights for onward transmission of any image or file is not granted or implied. Changing or deleting Copyright information is illegal as specified in the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988. If you are in any way unsure of your right to publish this image please contact Suzanne Plunkett on +44(0)7990562378 or email suzanne@suzanneplunkett.com

Viking Ocean Cruises welcomed the company’s second ship, Viking Sea, with a christening celebration on the Thames River in Greenwich – and although Viking’s ocean ships are classified as “small ships,” Viking Sea is the largest ship ever launched in London.

Viking Ocean Cruises Christens Second Ship in London

By
Dana Lawson
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“Viking Cruises christens its second of six planned ocean ships in Greenwich” in London, Britain May 5, 2016

Less than one year ago, Viking Ocean Cruises launched its first ship, Viking Star, and marked the arrival of the travel industry’s first entirely new cruise line in a decade.

Yesterday in London, the company officially welcomed its second ship, Viking Sea, to its fleet during a celebration on the Thames River in Greenwich.

Though Viking’s ocean ships are classified as “small ships” by Cruise Critic, the 930-guest, 47,800-ton Viking Sea is the largest ship ever launched in London.

After passing through the Thames Barrier, the ship received a warm welcome by 28 able sea men, who manned the yardarms of the Cutty Sark – the iconic 19th Century British clipper ship – and saluted Viking Sea as she arrived in Greenwich.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises, said, “Our ships are built for exploration; they are vessels that help our guests spend more time immersed in and surrounded by their destination. With the arrival of our second ship – and with four more sister ships on the way – we are focused on introducing travelers to the Viking way of destination-centered cruising, a unique style that was inspired by our success on the rivers.”

After arriving in Greenwich, Viking Sea was positioned in the Thames River with decorated pontoons nearby to welcome guests for various shore excursions around the city.

As part of the ship’s christening – or naming – ceremony, guests were treated to a concert from Norwegian soprano Sissel and The Olav’s Choir. Guests also enjoyed a talk by Stein Olav Henrichsen, the director of Oslo’s Munch Museum – as part of the official launch of Viking’s exclusive new partnership with the museum that is designed to celebrate the life and artwork of Norway’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch, with daily “Munch Moments,” staged for guests each day in the ship’s Atrium.

During Viking Sea’s christening ceremony, Karine Hagen — Viking’s senior vice president and daughter of Torstein Hagen — served as ceremonial godmother and offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for Viking Sea,  a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

Widely recognized as the face of the brand in Viking’s television ads and online cultural enrichment videos, Karine is responsible for infusing the company’s itineraries with extraordinary experiences. Viking Ocean Cruises Christens Second Ship in London | 26She is also the author of the children’s books, The World of Finse, an educational series that showcases the adventures of Karine’s yellow Labrador, Finse. The series is set largely along the global destinations and routes of Viking’s cruises, and the books are sold onboard Viking’s ships. As a response to guest requests, Finse also took part in yesterday’s christening events.

Several elements of the christening ceremony paid homage to the company’s Norwegian heritage. Instead of champagne for the traditional bottle-breaking, Viking Sea was christened with a bottle of Gammel Opland aquavit, which hails from the same town in Norway where Torstein’s mother and Karine’s grandmother, Ragnhild – also lovingly known as “Mamsen” – was born.

“Mamsen’s,” the Norwegian deli onboard Viking Sea, was also named after Ragnhild, and Gammel Opland was her favorite brand of aquavit. Additionally, in honor of the original Vikings who once explored the British Isles, a Viking battle axe was used to cut the cord for the aquavit christening. The particular broad axe used is a replica of an 11th-century Viking axe discovered in the 1920s when it was dredged from the bottom of the Thames River near the London Bridge.

Following the christening and a fireworks show held in the middle of the Thames River, Viking Sea set sail for Bergen, and from there she will continue on to Oslo, Copenhagen, Berlin, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Helsinki, and Stockholm on the popular 15-day Viking Homelands itinerary.

Viking Sea’s christening was the culmination of a maiden voyage that began April 3 when the ship set sail in the Mediterranean. Over the last month, she made stops in what will be regular ports, including Athens, Santorini, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Venice, Rome, and Barcelona.

Viking Sea will spend the summer sailing itineraries in Scandinavia and the Baltic; she will call on Greenwich again in June as part of Viking’s new Into the Midnight Sun itinerary that sails between London and Bergen and explores the northernmost reaches of Scandinavia and sails across the Arctic Circle.

 

New Carnival Vista Offers Array of New Entertainment and Activities

By
Dana Lawson
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Currently on its maiden voyage, the new Carnival Vista features an array of entertainment and adrenaline-inducing thrill experiences.

“Carnival Vista is an absolute ‘wow’ in every respect, and we have put together a line-up of entertainment, activities, and experiences like nothing else at sea,” said Sarah Beth Reno, vice president of entertainment for Carnival Cruise Line. “Our guests are going to love this ship, and their biggest challenge will be trying to choose from among so many different things to do on board.”

First IMAX Theatre at Sea, Thrill Theater Part of Carnival Multiplex

Carnival Vista houses the first IMAX Theatre at sea, including a three-deck-high screen that offers an immersive cinema experience featuring the latest Hollywood blockbusters, family favorites, and IMAX documentary content.

The 187-seat IMAX Theatre is part of the Carnival Multiplex, which also includes the Thrill Theater, a multi-dimensional experience where seats move back and forth and side to side, and viewers are sprayed with water and bubbles to make them feel like they’re part of the feature.

Available on Carnival Vista only is Thrillogy, a scary-yet-fun multi-sensory horror movie experience within the Thrill Theater that is designed for guests 17 and older.

The cost for first-run movies in the IMAX Theatre is $12.95 for adults and $9.95 for children 12 and under and guests aged 55 and over.  The cost for IMAX documentaries and Thrill Theater is $5.50 per person.

New Playlist Productions Shows

Carnival Vista will debut three new high-tech Playlist Productions shows that combine captivating live performances with spectacular LED staging and special effects to create evenings of unforgettable entertainment.  The three shows include:

  • Amor Cubano: A Caribbean Dance Romance, an exhilarating get-on-your-feet show that blends classic Latin songs with today’s hits and features an authentic reproduction of Carnival Vista’s Havana Bar. A seven-piece Cuban-inspired band performs songs by Gloria Estefan, Celia Cruz, and others amid a tropics-inspired backdrop of Cuba and Miami, the latter of which will be the ship’s eventual year-round homeport.
  • America Rocks!, a high-energy show featuring rock anthems by American artists like Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, Styx, and Kiss. The glow stick-waving audience cheers on a rockin’ house band with sizzling guitars, pulsating drums. and a horn section, evoking the feeling of classic rock concerts from bygone days.
  • Flick: The Power of Motion Pictures, a celebration of filmmaking with some of the greatest anthems of all time showcasing songs from popular movies like Footloose, Dirty Dancing, and others.  The main character of the show, Flick, takes viewers on a magical journey through different genres of film with stunning theatrical illusions and show-stopping cinematic effects.

All three shows feature high-energy after parties in Carnival Vista‘s atrium, Havana Bar, and other spaces where guests can dance and interact with the stars following the show.

Additional Live Entertainment Options

A roster of popular comedians perform at the 385-seat Punchliner Comedy Club which offers family-friendly and adults-only shows and guests are the stars of Hasbro, The Game Show, which features larger-than-life adaptations of iconic Hasbro games.

New Serenity Nights, Deck Parties and More

At night, the ship’s outdoor adults-only retreat is transformed into a South Beach-style club under the stars complete with spectacular lighting effects and a crowd-pleasing mix of popular music spun by one of Carnival’s professionally-trained DJs.

Already known for hosting the best deck parties at sea, the cruise line takes it to another level on Carnival Vista with the Rock-N-Glow 80s Deck Party where participants don day-glo and other attire from the 80s and dance the night away.

A new Island Deck Party celebrates the fun and spirit of RedFrog and BlueIguana – the colorful namesake characters of Carnival Vista’s poolside watering holes.  In early summer, the Clue murder mystery experience will debut as well.

Spectacular Outdoor Fun

Carnival Vista takes cruising to new heights – literally – with SkyRide, a first-of-its-kind aerial attraction where adventure seekers pedal hanging recumbent-like cycles at speeds of up to 18 miles an hour across an elevated 800-foot-long track.

Kaleid-O-Slide is a new inner-tube slide where riders zip down 455 feet of exhilarating corkscrew turns enhanced by music and stunning kaleidoscopic effects.

Carnival Vista also features a suspended 270-foot-long ropes course, a high speed Twister slide, an aqua spray park with a 300-gallon tipping bucket.

Exciting European and Caribbean Departures

Carnival Vista debuted in Europe on May 1, 2016, and will operate a summer schedule of Mediterranean cruises through October.  Following a trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Vista will offer a pair of 11-day voyages from New York in November 2016 before repositioning to Miami for year-round Caribbean sailings later that month.

Additional Information and Reservations

Reservations are currently being accepted for all of Carnival Vista’s European and Caribbean itineraries.  For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit carnival.com

Aqua Expeditions Launches New Family Promotion

By
Dana Lawson
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Aqua Expeditions, leader of luxury cruises on two of the worlds’ greatest rivers, introduces a new family-travel promotion in response to the demand for more inspiring, educational, and authentic travel experiences for children and their parents.

Parents are constantly seeking new experiences for their children while traveling. Aqua Expeditions’ latest family activities have been tailored to take families on an unforgettable educational experience down the magnificent Mekong River on board its luxury all-suite vessel Aqua Mekong.

To mark the launch of these family-friendly departures this May, Aqua Expeditions is offering an introductory promotion. Children between the age of 7 and 12 years old will stay on board the Aqua Mekong for free when sharing with both parents in a triple cabin or accompanied by a single parent.*

Children can look forward to experiential learning experiences on cycling trips to local fishing villages where they will interact with the community; explore the wet markets; taste local specialties and participate in a special interactive cooking class on board with the chef. They will also be able to visit a religious mountain monastery for a blessing ceremony with resident Buddhist monks.

Further activities and adventures include kayaking, fishing, and outdoor movie screenings on the observation deck where guests enjoy family-friendly films. There is also a library, board games, and foosball table for kids to enjoy. All families will have the opportunity to tailor their trip to participate in activities that most interest them.

For more information on this new family travel promotion, as well as routes and itinerary dates, please visit www.aquaexpeditions.com.

*Terms and Conditions:

  • Please note that the minimum age to travel on the Aqua Mekong is seven years old
  • The child will need to share the cabin with his/her parents to be entitled for the promotion
  • The promotion is valid for departures between May 6 to August 12, 2016, and May 5 to August 11, 2017 (inclusive)
  • Black-out dates: May 24 to June 21, 2016, and June 2-30, 2017
  • Customers who meet all the conditions mentioned above but have already made a booking with Aqua Expeditions prior to this announcement will also be entitled to this promotion

Carnival Cruise Line Offers National Military Appreciation Month Specials

By
Dana Lawson
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In honor of the men and women who serve in the U.S. and Canadian military, Carnival Cruise Line is offering active and retired service members special savings and bonuses during May to mark National Military Appreciation Month.

The promotion — which provides a $50 onboard credit per cabin and a two-category upgrade — can be combined with Carnival’s highly attractive military rates.  In addition, guests who qualify for the month-long promotion can book up to two additional staterooms with the same bonuses and pricing. The promotion can be booked throughout the month of May and is applicable for cruises departing between August 2016 and April 2018.

“Carnival has a long-established history of providing special consideration to our military men and women, and we are pleased to offer these exclusive benefits during Military Appreciation Month,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

“During every Carnival cruise, service members are also honored at a special military appreciation event we kicked off earlier this year in conjunction with our Honor.Family.Fun. program which is raising funds for Operation Homefront.”

In January, Carnival launched Honor.Family.Fun. — a year-long initiative in partnership with seven-time Grammy Award–winning superstar Carrie Underwood and Operation Homefront, the national nonprofit that builds strong, stable, and secure military families.

The program helps raise funds for Operation Homefront and will culminate in a special private concert for service men and women and their families starring Underwood aboard Carnival’s newest and most family-friendly ship, Carnival Vista, when the vessel makes its U.S. debut in New York City on Nov. 4, 2016.

During Underwood’s “Storyteller Tour” — which kicked off in Jacksonville in January — select military families, chosen in partnership with Operation Homefront, are being treated to a personal meet-and-greet with Underwood before a number of her concerts. A series of videos showing these heart-warming encounters can be viewed here.

Throughout the yearlong Honor.Family.Fun. initiative, those wishing to support the cause can contribute by clicking on the “Donate Today” button at carnival.com/HonorFamilyFun.

Commemorative dog tags are available for purchase at merchandise stands at all “Storyteller Tour” concerts and on board Carnival ships, with all proceeds supporting Operation Homefront.

 

Viking Announces World Cruise for Fourth Ship

By
Dana Lawson
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With just days before its second ship, Viking Sea, is christened in Greenwich on the Thames River in London, Viking Ocean Cruises®  today announced that its fourth ship, Viking Sun, will spend her maiden season sailing the company’s first-ever World Cruise, spanning 141 days and visiting five continents, 35 countries and 66 ports, with 12 port overnights.

Departing on December 15, 2017, this epic journey from Miami to London will allow guests to explore Cuba and the Caribbean; sail the Panama Canal and the South Pacific; call upon ports in Asia, from Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City; and see the Arabian, Red and Mediterranean Seas, before concluding in the North Atlantic.

Like on all Viking itineraries, World Cruise guests will enjoy a complimentary shore excursion in each of the 66 ports and free unlimited Wi-Fi.  They will also receive Business Class airfare and all gratuities and service fees, along with an extensive list of added-value inclusions in their cruise fare.

“Ever since our first ship set sail last year, we have been focused on bringing the destination back to ocean cruising. Our unique, award-winning approach allows our guests to explore comfortably, with experiences that enrich their lives along the way,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises.

“This World Cruise is the most extensive and culturally immersive itinerary we have ever offered, and we are pleased by the early interest in pre-sales we have seen from our guests and industry partners.”

World Cruise Highlights

Viking’s first-ever World Cruise visits dozens of legendary cities, charming ports, and idyllic islands in one seamless itinerary. Guests will immerse themselves in the world’s rich cultures during included excursions that provide unmatched insight into daily life, as well as Privileged Access visits to cultural institutions.

Overnight stays in 12 cities allow World Cruise guests to delve deeper into the destination; and Viking’s Culture Curriculum® offers additional enrichment through onboard lectures and entertainment.

Guests may choose the 141-day cruise from Miami to London, which includes 21 days of sailing from Miami to Los Angeles; or they may also choose to cruise from Los Angeles to London, a 120-day itinerary. Full details on the World Cruise can be found on Viking’s website here; highlights include:

  • Havana’s Authentic Old Town—Guests will spend two days in Havana, engaging in authentic experiences with the Cuban people – from hearing a local jazz ensemble to visiting an artist’s studio – and exploring the city’s neoclassical, baroque, and colonial architecture.
  • The Path Between the Seas—Forty-eight miles long, the Panama Canal links the Atlantic and Pacific at the narrowest stretch of the Isthmus of Panama, cutting thousands of miles off shipping routes. Crossing this manmade wonder, Viking Sea will be raised and lowered through enormous locks at each end.
  • Papeete, Tahiti: Gaugin’s Paradise—One of the world’s most visually stunning and romantic destinations, Tahiti is the cultural hub of French Polynesia. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in Papeete, letting them immerse themselves in its continental flavor.
  • Auckland, City of Two Harbors—During an overnight stay in New Zealand’s “City of Sails,” guests will have ample time to take in Auckland’s stunning setting between two harbors.
  • Shanghai, Astonishing Blend of Old and New—One of the world’s most important ports, Shanghai is a modern metropolis and center of finance. An overnight stay allows time for guests to explore its famous and historic Bund, the elegant riverfront promenade, or stroll the inviting grounds of the dynastic Yuyuan Garden.
  • Sydney: Cultural Capital of “Oz”—Guests will have the opportunity to sail into Sydney’s magnificent harbor, the world’s largest, and an overnight stay gives the opportunity to admire the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and The Rocks district of shops and markets.
  • Bangkok, Siam of Old—From Viking’s overnight port in Laem Chabang, guests will have ample time to discover Bangkok’s revered temples (or wats) and traditional floating markets, as well as to tour the elegant buildings of the renowned Grand Palace, long home to the kings of Siam.
  • Singapore, Bustling Island Nation—Spread across 63 islands at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is the world’s only island city-state. An overnight stay here allows guests to take in its sophisticated wonders, including the stunning National Orchid Garden.
  • Medieval Malta—Long a crossroads for trade between Africa and Europe, the island of Malta has been shaped by generations of rich history and influence. Guests can take in the medieval ambience of Valletta and Mdina and enjoy the stunning coast that is dotted with iuzzu fishing boats, blue grottoes, and sweeping bays.
  • Greenwich: London at your Door—The celebrated historic Royal Borough of Greenwich, on the Thames River, is Viking’s docking location in London, providing guests with easy access to the regal capital’s iconic sights, including Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Viking Sun

Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, boast 465 cabins and accommodate 930 passengers. Viking Sun will be the company’s fourth ship in the fleet and will be delivered in late 2017; the two remaining yet-to-be-named ships will be delivered in 2018 and 2020, respectively. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean fleet features understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design. Features include:

  • All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from a 270 sq. ft. Veranda Stateroom, all with private verandas and premium amenities that include king-size beds with luxury linens, large showers, luxury toiletries, heated bathroom floors, and large interactive flat-screen LCD TVs with movies-on-demand.
  • Explorer Suites: The ship will feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. that offer sweeping views from wraparound private verandas as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category onboard.
  • Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ship will feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.
  • LivNordic Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa onboard is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air.
  • Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s: Share a cocktail with friends. Linger over a Norwegian breakfast and a nautical history book. The Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s gourmet deli are thoughtful spaces located at the bow and designed in the Scandinavian spirit, for complete relaxation and for marveling at sweeping views through double-height windows.
  • The Wintergarden: Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden. In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service.
  • Dining Choices: Viking’s ocean ships offer multiple restaurant locations and food choices—from fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and the widest choice of culinary options, and the World Café, which serves international fare and regional specialties—to intimate dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting menu complete with wine parings, and Manfredi’s, which features freshly prepared pastas and Italian favorites.Additionally, The Kitchen Table focuses on regional dishes from market to table; the Pool Grill specializes in gourmet burgers; afternoon tea and scones are available in the Wintergarden; and Mamsen’s serves Norwegian deli-style fare. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ships offer the most al fresco dining at sea.
  • Enriching Entertainment: Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking in creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” Instead of casinos and water slides, guests are offered Viking’s Culture Curriculum® including: world-class lectures on history and art; tasting of vintage wines from their destinations; restaurant menus inspired by local cuisine; informative port talks; enriching Destination Performances featuring folkloric shows and musicians playing regional and classical music; an onboard cooking school allowing guests to learn how to prepare local specialties.
  • Sustainable Features: Designed with the environment in mind, Viking’s ocean ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hull and bow for maximum fuel efficiency and equipment that minimizes exhaust pollution and meets the strictest environmental regulations.

 

Princess Cruises Unveils New Club Class Mini-Suite Stateroom Category

By
Dana Lawson
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Guests on Princess Cruises can now choose a new premium stateroom category featuring VIP amenities and exclusive dining with the new Club Class Mini-Suite.

This elevated mini-suite category features select perks including new Club Class Dining — a reserved dining area with expedited seating and expanded menu options — and priority embarkation and disembarkation.  Plus, Club Class guests will be among the first to sleep on the new Princess Luxury Bed. 

Debuting on select ships beginning in December 2016, Club Class Mini-Suites will roll out through the fall of 2017 in association with the cruise line’s “Come Back New Promise,” which is delivering guests a premium cruise vacation enhanced by innovative and desirable product enhancements. 

“Club Class Mini-Suites provide Princess guests yet another elevated product enhancement to enjoy during their cruise vacation,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president.

“The VIP perks, including the new Club Class Dining, offer a premium and memorable onboard experience so our guests can completely relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in worldwide destinations and ultimately ‘come back new.’” 
 
Club Class Dining
Offering guests more convenience and tempting fares, Club Class Dining includes:

  • Dedicated area of the Main Dining Room with expedited seating
  • Dedicated wait staff and uniquely-styled table décor
  • Exclusive menu options with daily chef’s special and table-side preparations
  • Open every evening for dinner and for breakfast and lunch on sea days

Upgraded Amenities & Services
Club Class Mini-Suite guests will also enjoy the following additional VIP perks:

  • The Princess Luxury Bed – Club Class guests will be among the first to experience the “Ultimate Sleep at Sea,” in the new bed designed in collaboration with board certified sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus and renowned HGTV Designer Candice Olson
  • Priority check-in and boarding at the beginning of the cruise and priority disembarkation at the end of the cruise
  • One-time complimentary wine set-up on embarkation day (1/2 bottle of red and white)
  • Evening canapés (upon request)
  • Luxurious terry shawl bathrobes

Full Suite guests will also enjoy all the benefits of Club Class Mini-Suites including Club Class Dining, and be among the first to experience the new Princess Luxury Bed, in addition to the many other amenities offered with a Full Suite.
 
In addition to Club Class Dining and upgraded amenities and services, Club Class Mini-Suites include all of the standard mini-suite benefits featuring spacious staterooms, up to 323 square feet with balcony, separate seating area with sofa bed and coffee table, bathroom with combination tub and shower, and a welcome glass of champagne, among others.
 
The new Club Class Mini-Suites add to the cruise line’s previously announced “Come Back New Promise,” a multi-year, multi-million-dollar program introducing new product innovations that offer guests enriching vacation experiences.

Fathom Arrives in Havana to Complete Historic Voyage from U.S. to Cuba

By
John Shallo
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Fathom, made history today with its arrival into Havana, marking the first time in over 50 years that a U.S. cruise line has sailed from the U.S. to Cuba. It is also the first time in decades that Cuban-born individuals have been able to travel by sea to or from Cuba.

During each sailing, Fathom will visit Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, three ports of call for which Carnival Corporation has obtained berthing approval (PRNewsFoto/Carnival Corporation & plc)
During each sailing, Fathom will visit Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, three ports of call for which Carnival Corporation has obtained berthing approval (PRNewsFoto/Carnival Corporation & plc)

Fathom travelers were greeted by fanfare and a festive celebration as they arrived in the Port of Havana, the first of three destinations that guests will visit as part of the brand’s exclusive seven-night voyages to Cuba. Following this week’s inaugural trip to Cuba, Fathom’s 704-passenger Adonia luxury cruise ship will begin operating its weeklong itineraries to Cuba every other week.

“Our arrival today in Havana is a special moment in history that contributes to a more positive future, and we congratulate our colleague Arnie Perez on being the first person born in Cuba to step ashore under Cuba’s new policy,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation.

“We are so honored that Carnival Corporation and our Fathom brand can be part of such a meaningful milestone. As we worked to become the first U.S. cruise company to sail from the U.S. to Cuba in more than five decades, it was clear just how much interest there is from travelers who want to experience Cuba. We believe there is no better way to experience Cuba and see this beautiful island than to cruise with us on Fathom, and we look forward to providing a very special and rewarding experience to everyone who sails with us.”

Fathom's Adonia arrives in Havana (PRNewsFoto/Carnival Corporation & plc)
Fathom’s Adonia arrives in Havana (PRNewsFoto/Carnival Corporation & plc)

“We are extremely excited and very humbled by this historic opportunity to give Fathom travelers an exclusive chance to experience Cuba, which is a unique destination unlike anywhere else in the world,” said Tara Russell, president of Fathom and global impact lead for Carnival Corporation.

Russell added: “Our guests are now able to visit three beautiful destinations on the island all in one week, with the convenience of only having to unpack once while we sail on the Fathom Adonia, our premium small ship with its excellent and diverse dining, service and accommodations. Cuba is a beautiful island with great people and a rich history and culture, and we are so excited we are the first U.S. cruise line that will be giving travelers the opportunity to enjoy Cuba with all the comforts and convenience of being on board our ship. We look forward to making sure our guests have an extraordinary experience.”

Cuban voyages will feature three ports of call in Cuba

During each sailing, Fathom will visit Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, three ports of call for which Carnival Corporation has obtained berthing approval.

As part of this historic sailing in this inaugural year, travelers will enjoy an exciting Cuban experience and will sail aboard Adonia, a premium small ship where they can choose to partake in onboard experiences, including Cuban- and Caribbean-inspired food and films, music and dancing, and much more.

Special onboard programming will include a wide variety of activities covering an array of interests, ranging from an orientation of Cuba’s history, customs and culture, to geographic-inspired entertainment, to casual and fun personal enrichment activities, along with conversational Spanish lessons.

Seven-day itineraries on Carnival Corporation’s Fathom brand will generally depart from PortMiami on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). The ship will arrive at its first destination, Havana, the following morning (Monday) at 11 a.m. ET. The Adonia returns to its homeport, PortMiami, at 7:30 a.m. ET on Sunday.

Prices for seven-day itineraries to Cuba start at $1,800 per person, excluding Cuban visas, taxes, fees and port expenses and including all meals on the ship, onboard experiences and several on-the ground activities. Prices will vary by season.

To reserve a spot on future sailings, travelers may contact their travel professional or call 1-855-9Fathom. Visit Fathom’s “Cruise to Cuba” page at fathom.org to learn more about the brand’s weeklong itineraries to Cuba.

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