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Carnival Sunshine Will Begin Sailing Year-Round From Charleston Starting May 2019

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Sunshine
Carnival Sunshine entered service in May 2013 following an unprecedented $155 million renovation that added all of the bar, dining and entertainment options of the lineÕs groundbreaking Fun Ship 2.0 product enhancement initiative. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines)

Carnival Cruise Line will position a newer, larger ship to Charleston when the 3,002-passenger Carnival Sunshine kicks off a year-round schedule of four- and five-day cruises in May 2019.

Carnival Sunshine provides an exciting new vacation choice from Charleston and features one of the widest arrays of food, beverage and entertainment options within the Carnival fleet, including spectacular open-air attractions like the WaterWorks aqua park and SportSquare recreation area, a stunning three-deck-high adults-only retreat featuring a waterfall and adjoining pool, several specialty restaurants and more than 550 staterooms with private balconies.

“With its convenient location and strong tourism appeal, Charleston is one of our most popular homeports and we’re delighted to build upon this success with the deployment of Carnival Sunshine,” Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Sunshine not only provides guests sailing from Charleston with a newer, larger ship with so much to see and do but also underscores our commitment to our year-round operations from this port,” she added.

Carnival Sunshine will kick off its four- and five-day cruise program from Charleston May 18, 2019, and is expected to carry approximately 220,000 passengers annually from that port.

Four-day cruises will visit the Bahamian capital of Nassau while five-day voyages will feature Nassau and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.   Each of these destinations offers world-class beaches and excellent water sports opportunities, including kayaking, paddle-boarding and snorkeling.

Guests sailing aboard Carnival Sunshine can enjoy a tantalizing array of food and beverage choices, including Ji Ji Asian Kitchen with an extensive menu of Far East favorites, Havana Bar offering refreshing Cuban cocktails and live Latin music, the cocktail pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar, the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub, Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant, and Guy’s Burger Joint developed in tandem with Food Network star Guy Fieri.

The ship’s family-friendly options include Seuss at Sea operated exclusively with Dr. Seuss Enterprises, Hasbro, The Game Show with larger-than-life adaptations of the company’s iconic games, and complimentary children’s programs for kids in three age groups.  Entertainment and activity choices are just as varied with high-tech Playlist Productions revues, the Punchliner Comedy Club offering adults-only and family-friendly performances, legendary deck parties and live musical performances throughout the ship.

Top-deck attractions include WaterWorks highlighted by Speedway Splash with its dual-racing slides, SportSquare with a suspended ropes course offering breathtaking views to the sea 150 feet below, a miniature golf course, and a three-deck-high Serenity adults-only retreat with oversized umbrellas, and comfortable chaise lounges and chairs, as well as a waterfall and its own pool.

In addition to the short cruise program from Charleston, Carnival Sunshine will operate an 11-day Carnival Journeys cruise round-trip from Charleston Dec. 3-14, 2019, calling at St. Thomas, Aruba, Bonaire, Grand Turk and Half Moon Cay.  In addition to visiting spectacular destinations, the longer-length Carnival Journeys cruises offer unique on-board experiences where guests can enjoy local cuisine, entertainment and cultural opportunities within the various ports of call.  Activities focusing on topics such as photography, cooking and arts and crafts and a 1980s-themed “Throwback Sea Day” will be offered, as well.

Carnival Ecstasy, which currently sails from Charleston, will shift to Jacksonville, Fla., to operate year-round four- and five-day cruises beginning in May 2019.   Carnival Elation, currently based in Jacksonville, will reposition to Port Canaveral, Fla., in May 2019, as well, to operate a new schedule of four- and five-day voyages, providing an exciting new vacation option from the Space Coast.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

MSC Cruises Announces Three Unique MSC Meraviglia Sailings From New York

By
John Shallo
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MSC Meraviglia
MSC Meraviglia Photo credit: Bernard Biger STX France

Brand new NY itineraries with stops in the New England area, Canada and the Caribbean to enhance MSC Cruises’ offerings in the U.S. and complement a full season of sailings from Miami to the Caribbean

MSC Cruises, announced today that MSC Meraviglia, the sophisticated mega smart ship launched in June 2017, will kick off its inaugural season in North America making its maiden call in New York on Oct. 7, 2019 and offering three sailings departing from New York.

Bringing the ship’s innovative and stunning on board experience to a new embarkation port, MSC Meraviglia will sail two 10-night round trip itineraries from New York, as well as a third 13-night itinerary through the Caribbean, ending in Miami. In addition, prior to arriving in New York, MSC Meraviglia will sail a 17-night transatlantic cruise from Kiel, Germany with ports of call in destinations such as Denmark, the United Kingdom, Iceland and Canada.

“New York has been a market that MSC Cruises has been exploring for a number of years,” said Rick Sasso, chairman of MSC Cruises USA. “We are thrilled that for the first time in MSC Cruises history we are now able to offer sailings from this important region and meet the expectations of both our travel agent partners and guests.”

Cruise CompeteMeaning wonder, MSC Meraviglia boasts incredible detailed design that lives up to her name. The 5,714 (4,488 double occupancy) passenger ship offers a variety of unique features that have made the ship one of the hottest destinations at sea. Highlights of the innovative ship include: world-class entertainment with two exclusive Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows created just for MSC Meraviglia; a Mediterranean-style promenade, with the longest LED dome at sea, at 262 ft., displaying a variety of digital skies 24 hours a day; a wide range of culinary offerings, including an expanded partnership with global Italian food expert Eataly as well as a partnership with world-renowned pastry chef, Jean Philippe Maury; and an enhanced MSC Yacht Club, which has become MSC Cruises’ signature luxury offering. In addition, the ship caters to families, with modular connected staterooms that can accommodate up to 10 people, multiple LEGO-designed play areas for all ages, and a polar themed aqua park, featuring four water slides.

“Bringing MSC Meraviglia to New York is the perfect introduction for the ship to the U.S., providing travelers an option to check out new itineraries with MSC Cruises and, for those in the region, a convenient way to discover MSC Meraviglia’s style, sophistication and stellar on board features,” said Roberto Fusaro, President of MSC Cruises USA. “With MSC Meraviglia coming to New York, and eventually to Miami, we are bringing the three most innovative and modern classes of MSC Cruises ships to the U.S., offering a wider range of memorable experiences for guests.”

MSC Meraviglia sailings for the fall and winter 2019/2020 season

Click Here to view Itinerary Infographic

Guests can officially book sailings for MSC Meraviglia’s inaugural season in North America beginning January 2, 2018, and take advantage of early booking with added perks such as shipboard credit, WiFi and a mealtime drinks package, offering unlimited wine and beer in the main dining room and buffet.

10-Night Sailings Departing from New York

  • October 8, 2019: The first of the two 10-night sailings from New York will tour stunning Canadian destinations during the region’s most colorful time of year. Cruisers can explore the fall hues in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and an overnight stay in Quebec City, Quebec, before returning to New York.*

 

  • October 18, 2019: The second 10-night sailing for MSC Meraviglia departing from New York will explore Canada as well as the New England region, with ports of call in Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Portland, Maine; and Boston, Massachusetts.*

*Prices start at $799 per person plus $25 shipboard credit, WiFi and a mealtime drink package.

13-Night Sailing Departing from New York to Miami

  • October 28, 2019: MSC Meraviglia’s final sailing from New York will journey to Miami through the Caribbean on a 13-night sailing. Guests can experience picturesque Caribbean destinations like Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Fort de France, Martinique; Bridgetown, Barbados; Saint George, Grenada; Willemstad, Curaçao; and Oranjestad, Aruba, before arriving in Miami.

*Prices start at $999 per person plus $25 shipboard credit, WiFi and a mealtime drink package.

7-Night Sailings Departing from Miami to the Caribbean

Upon departing New York, MSC Meraviglia will homeport in Miami, sailing alongside MSC Seaside and MSC Divina. The three ships based at PortMiami will offer cruise guests looking to sail the Caribbean a wider range of options in terms of ships and itineraries.  MSC Meraviglia, in particular, will offer a full season of 7-night cruises, departing on Sundays and sailing to two itineraries in the western Caribbean. The first itinerary will include Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico and the Bahamas, and the second itinerary will stop in Mexico, Honduras, Belize and the Bahamas.

MSC Meraviglia’s impending arrival to the U.S. is a testament to MSC Cruises’ commitment to the region, especially as MSC Seaside, the leading cruise line’s newest revolutionary mega ship, will arrive in Miami on December 21. MSC Meraviglia’s arrival in Fall 2019 will officially mark three ships operating out of the U.S., joining MSC Seaside and MSC Divina.

To find out more about MSC Cruises and its fleet visit www.msccruises.com.

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Pack And Cruise Through The Holidays with Norwegian’s Hull-iday Countdown

By
John Shallo
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Cruise CompeteNorwegian Cruise Line is celebrating the holiday season with a brand new offer that will bring joy and delight to every guest looking to book an ultimate cruise vacation. Now through December 10, guests can take advantage of Norwegian’s Hull-iday Countdown and receive up to $500 in free onboard spending money* when they book a balcony or above on select five-day or longer Caribbean, Bahamas/Florida and Bermuda sailings. The celebration doesn’t end there; the offer is combinable with Free at Sea making it up to $3,100 in value.

Continuing to spread the joy through the holidays, Norwegian will also be extending an array of offers to guests.

  • Extended now through December 31, Norwegian’s Holiday Bonus Bundle offers $100 of onboard credit** on select holiday sailings over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays offering guests an opportunity to give their loved ones a wonderful cruise vacation.
  • Keeping in the holiday spirit, Norwegian’s popular Free at Sea promotion will be extended through January 2. This signature value-added offer provides guests who book a new three-day or longer sailing in an oceanview, balcony or minisuite category stateroom with the opportunity to select their preference of two free choices from five spectacular onboard amenity offers†, including free unlimited open bar, a free specialty dining package, $50 towards shore excursions in each port per stateroom, 250 minutes of free WiFi, or Norwegian’s Friends & Family Sail Free offer that allows the third and fourth guests to sail for free on many 2017 and 2018 sail dates. Inside staterooms, as well as Norwegian’s Studio staterooms for solo travelers, can choose one free offer. For those who enjoy the luxury life at sea can book a cruise in a suite or The Haven by Norwegian® and enjoy all five free amenities†, providing up to $2,600 in added value to their cruise.
  • Just in time for the holidays, families and couples alike can cruise into a Hawaiian paradise as Norwegian’s Free at Sea Hawaii offer has also been extended through January 2.  Guests who book a new cruise vacation aboard Pride of America, the only ship in the world that can sail seven-day inter-island cruises in Hawaii, have the freedom to select one of five offers†* to enrich their cruising experience, including a free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay with an option to select reduced airfare starting at $399 from select gateways, a free specialty dining package, free pre-paid service charges for the first and second guest in the stateroom, free $50 per port shore excursion credit per stateroom, or Norwegian’s Friends & Family Sail Free, allowing the third and fourth guests in each stateroom to sail for free on many 2017 and 2018 sail dates. Guests who book a suite aboard Pride of America can enjoy all five offers.
  • Norwegian’s Havana Nights offers cruisers who want to explore the vibrant history of Cuba $50 in free onboard spending money** when they book a new cruise to Cuba now through December 31 featuring an all-inclusive onboard experience on Norwegian Sky from Miami or Norwegian Sun from Port Canaveral.
  • Norwegian’s Distinctive Voyages is available through January 31, providing cruisers the opportunity to sail to the destinations of their dreams. On select nine-day or longer cruises, guests will receive five distinct offers: 120 minute phone call package, 250 minute Internet package, $50 USD credit per port shore excursion, up to $200 USD in air credit and $100 USD hotel credit.** The offer is also combinable with Free at Sea; giving guests an offer up to $5,000 in value.

To book a cruise aboard a Norwegian ship, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 866-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.

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*Offer not applicable to categories BX or MX (Sail Away Categories). Onboard credit offer is per stateroom, in U.S. Dollars and will be applied to 1st and 2nd guest on the reservation.

 

**Offer not applicable to Sail Away Categories (categories IX, OX, BX or MX).

†All sailings 3 nights or longer. Offer is not applicable to categories IX, OX, BX, MX (Sail Away Categories). Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Joy, Pride of America, and Norwegian Sun’s all-inclusive sailings from Port Canaveral are not eligible for this offer. Friends & Family sail free applicable only on select sail dates.  Guests are responsible for an 18% gratuity for retail value for Specialty Dining Package, Unlimited Beverage Package, and/ or the Soda Package, with pricing based on number of cruise nights. Number of meals for specialty dining package based on length of itinerary. $50 USD per port shore excursion credit is per stateroom and is applicable for each port; it is not transferable to other ports. Overnight stays count as one port, except Bermuda sailings which can receive up to 3 individual days of shore excursion credit. Wifi package offers one login per stateroom. On Norwegian Breakaway, stateroom receives an internet package of 250 minutes or 1000 MB of data.

†*Pride of America offer available for bookings for cruises through April 27, 2019. Offer is not applicable to categories IX, OX, BX(Sail Away Categories). Cruises must be booked more than 30 days prior sailing, when selecting hotel option; if choosing hotel option with air option cruises must be made more than 60 days prior to sailing. Offer valid for Waikiki Marriott Resort-city view room. In the event that the hotel scheduled to be used in package is unavailable, for any reason, Norwegian Cruise Line reserves the right to substitute the hotel included in package. One night pre-hotel offer is available on reservations with 4 guests or less.

Carnival Cruise Lines Newest Ship To Be Named Carnival Panorama

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Panorama has been chosen as the name of Carnival Cruise Line’s new 133,500-ton ship scheduled to debut in fall 2019.

Carnival Panorama is the third in the line’s highly successful Vista-class series, which are all named to reflect the connection between the vessels and the sea and highlighted by stunning indoor/outdoor spaces that create a truly unique seagoing vacation experience.

Carnival Panorama will join its sister ships – Carnival Vista, which entered service in 2016, and Carnival Horizon, set to debut April 2, 2018.  The three 3,954-passenger Vista-class ships are the largest ever constructed for Carnival Cruise Line.

Cruise CompeteLike its name implies, Carnival Panorama will offer venues with both indoor and al fresco experiences, including the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Library Bar, and Bonsai Sushi, along with open-air attractions like the groundbreaking bike-ride-in-the-sky attraction SkyRide, a massive WaterWorks aqua park, and the SportSquare recreation area.

Also featured will be a vibrant Havana section with tropics-inspired staterooms and its own Cuban-themed bar and pool, Family Harbor featuring extra-roomy accommodations, the Family Harbor Lounge, a luxurious Cloud 9 Spa and Ocean Plaza, a spacious dining and entertainment venue with indoor and outdoor seating.

“Carnival Panorama is the perfect name to reflect the design inspiration of our Vista-class ships providing more venues and opportunities to connect with the sea,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Panorama will offer a wide variety of fun indoor and outdoor experiences along with exciting one-of-a-kind features that will provide our guests with a lifetime of wonderful vacation memories,” she added.

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy, Carnival Panorama is scheduled to enter service in November 2019.   Homeport and itinerary, along with other new features of this ship, will be announced at a later date.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com. Carnival also can be found on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

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MSC Seaside Prepares To Set Sail To Miami And Dazzle Guests

By
John Shallo
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MSC Cruises’ new flagship will be officially named in Miami on December 21st

MSC Cruises is celebrating the coming into service of MSC Seaside, the new flagship for MSC Cruises, as she prepares to welcome the first guests and cross the Atlantic for her new home in Miami. MSC Seaside is the Company’s 14th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet and the second MSC Cruises ship to come into service in 2017 under the Company’s industry-unprecedented investment plan.

MSC Seaside is a brand new prototype, designed specifically for sun lovers and to bring MSC Cruises guests closer to the sea. The ship boasts generous outdoor public spaces so that guests can make the most of the sunshine and enjoy the outdoors, which are the highlights of a cruise vacation. This is now the fifth new prototype from MSC Cruises, and each and every new ship is designed to further enhance the cruise experience, bringing something unique and different every time.

Unlike anything else at sea, MSC Seaside will be the new star of Miami, truly recognizable and with a distinctive design inspired by a Miami beach condo. But it is not just the design of this ship that sets her apart, but also the on board experience that distinguishes an Cruise CompeteMSC Cruises getaway. MSC Seaside will offer world-class entertainment, a host of new international dining concepts, outstanding facilities for families, the MSC Yacht Club, which has become MSC Cruises’ signature luxury offering, and much more. These diverse features will differentiate the MSC Cruises brand and cruise experience in the North American market. Some of the main highlights of MSC Seaside include:

Unique design features – Inspired by the beach condos that have made Miami famous, MSC Seaside has a number of distinctive and innovative design features unlike any other ship. Two unique glass-floored catwalks and a 131 ft. high ‘Bridge of Sighs’ give guests a view of the ocean like never before. A waterfront boardwalk, the widest on any ship ever built, wraps around the ship, while panoramic elevators connect everything together.

A connected cruise experience – MSC for Me is the digital innovation program that uses the latest cutting-edge technology to connect travelers seamlessly with the experiences that matter to them, whether at sea or on land.

Variety of accommodation – Developed to provide the perfect accommodation for every type of guest, the ship offers flexible modular staterooms for groups of up to ten guests, exclusive aft corner suites with stunning sea views, terraced balcony staterooms with extended private terraces overlooking the waterfront boardwalk and luxurious suites with their own outdoor whirlpool bath.

Rich and varied entertainment – MSC Seaside doesn’t just feature a full-sized bowling alley, XD cinema and the longest zip line at sea, but also the most interactive aqua park at sea with five water attractions: the first cruise ship Slideboarding™ attraction, 525 ft. long dueling body slides and two spray areas for kids. There is never a dull moment on board!

Extensive dining options – MSC Seaside will offer an extensive choice of indoor and outdoor dining venues with a tempting range of international restaurants. One of the highlights is Asian Market Kitchen from renowned Pan-Asian chef Roy Yamaguchi. Other highlights include a luxury seafood restaurant, Ocean Cay, an authentic American-style steakhouse, the Butcher’s Cut, and a new French bistro, La Bohème.

Outstanding facilities and services for families and kids of all ages – MSC Seaside features brand new entertainment on top of everything families have already come to expect from MSC Cruises. As well as all-day kids’ entertainment and six dedicated areas for babies and kids of all ages, guests can also take part in the brand new DOREMI Family Cinema and a new exciting buzzer game.

MSC Seaside will depart Trieste on December 1st, making a 21 day trans-Atlantic crossing, arriving in PortMiami, her new home on December 21st. That evening, the new MSC Cruises flagship will be officially named in a glittering ceremony. And, no MSC Cruises naming ceremony would be complete without the Godmother, Sophia Loren, who has played the leading role in this time-honored tradition since 2003.

MSC Seaside will sail year-round from Miami to the Caribbean offering 7-night eastern and western Caribbean itineraries starting December 23, 2017.

To find out more about MSC Seaside visit www.msccruises.com.

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MSC Cruises Plans To Delight Guests With New Entertainment Offerings on MSC Seaside

By
John Shallo
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MSC Seaside’s entertainment offering includes more flexible theater showings, family entertainment for kids and parents plus an MSC-first comedy concept

MSC Cruises has announced more details of the new entertainment options aboard its latest flagship, MSC Seaside. MSC Cruises is committed to providing world-class entertainment on its ships to constantly surprise and delight guests. MSC Seaside will offer around-the-clock entertainment in a range of venues ensuring there is never a dull moment.

Late-Night Fun and Laughter with BeerProv, New Improvised Comedy Concept

For the first time on the MSC Cruises fleet, guests will be able to enjoy improvised comedy at sea. The well-known North American comedy troupe BeerProv, famed for instantly creating hilarious, unscripted sketches based on audience suggestions, will perform six nights a week in the Metropolitan Theatre, offering guests an entirely unique and unexpected show every performance. This new 45-minute concept features four comedians and includes a high level of audience participation.

Seven Brand New Broadway-Style Shows

Cruise CompeteMSC Cruises places a large emphasis on delivering quality entertainment, and has been recognized multiple times for its top-notch productions. The cruise line received the award for Best Production Shows in Porthole Cruise Magazine’s Editor in Chief Awards for 2017 and earned a spot under Best Cruise Ships for Entertainment in USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice 2016 Awards, as well as the Cruisers’ Choice in the Cruise Critic 2016 Awards.

MSC Cruises has worked to develop seven original Broadway-style theater shows for the 934-seat Metropolitan Theatre. Shows include something for movie fans, with My Life in Music presenting the most famous movie soundtracks performed live onstage, as well as something for vintage musical fans, with The Dream. Another eye-catching show, The Wizard, will feature breathtaking illusions, and Peter Punk provides a fresh new take on the famous story of Peter Pan.

Six original concerts, in varieties ranging from opera, to Latin, to piano solos, are also performed in the Metropolitan Theatre, with the help of the onboard pianist, violinist, soprano and tenor, for fans of live music.

More Flexible Theater Show Sittings

Also for the first time in MSC Cruises’ fleet, guests of MSC Seaside will be able to choose from up to four sittings of a Broadway-style show each evening starting from 6:00 p.m. and running until late, allowing greater flexibility to fit a fantastic show around even the busiest schedule. The shows will feature 14 variety artists, 15 dancers, and five singers, offering an assortment of different performances.

Activities Kids Will Love

As a family-owned company, MSC Cruises is dedicated to creating unique moments for families, and each and every new ship offers an even greater family offering. Two special LEGO® rooms, unique to MSC Seaside, will allow children to develop their creativity with tens of thousands of the world’s most famous bricks, all while making new friends in their age group. The Mini Club – LEGO® Sailor room is themed to mirror the ship’s Caribbean environment, with sailors made entirely out of LEGO®, for kids aged three to six. The Junior Club – LEGO® Pirates is for kids aged seven to eleven, filled with the latest LEGO® toys, video games and kits, this time with pirates made out of LEGO®.

Parents can enjoy a night to themselves, by dropping their kids off at late night group babysitting services, available for ages 3 to 11. Parents can leave kids from 11pm until 2am to enjoy everything the ship has to offer by night. In addition, during port days, parents can drop their kids off for free from 9 am until 11 pm, for a full, stress free day. Each kids’ club will be equipped with the latest, cutting-edge equipment, including 3D printing, VR Gaming and 3D product scanning.

To create more opportunities for together-time for the whole family, the Metropolitan Theatre will host screenings of popular family movies up to twice per cruise. Also on every port day, MSC Cruises will also open one of the kids’ clubs for both kids and their parents, so that the “big kids” can join in on the fun!

Other new features include an interactive game show, Buzzer the Game, which will offer kids and teens a chance to test their music, pop culture and sports knowledge in a speedy team game taking place in the disco.

Interactive Entertainment

A thrilling entertainment area offers guests high-tech thrills, including an authentic F1 racing simulator, immersive XD cinema, two full-sized bowling lanes and a whole host of arcade games. Two of the longest zips line at sea will also take guests on a high-speed thrill ride, finishing at the back of the ship. Guests can either take the plunge on their own or race a friend side-by-side.

New shows in the ship’s atrium will also offer surprise performances. Game shows, flash mobs, karaoke and more will make up the varied line-up in this uniquely designed space.

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Carnival Cruise Line Plans To Totally Transform Its Onboard Shopping Experience

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Breeze Pandora Opening
Carnival Breeze Pandora Opening

Carnival Cruise Line is planning to totally transform its shipboard shopping experience with renovated spaces and popular items from some of the world’s best-known retailers, including Victoria’s Secret, Swarovski, Pandora, TAG and others.

Carnival Cruise Line Plans To Totally Transform Its Onboard Shopping Experience | 9

According to Carnival’s Vice President of Retail William Butler, the upgraded retail venues and expanded offerings are the result of months of intensive research and data gathering to customize its onboard shopping options to match the preferences of Carnival guests.

“We’re committed to enhancing every aspect of our operations – which includes, of course, onboard shopping – and our expanded and enhanced retail offerings provide guests with an opportunity to enjoy some ‘retail therapy’ and take home a unique and memorable keepsake from their Carnival vacation,” he said.

Here’s a breakdown on some of the many new offerings available across the fleet:

  • Effy (12 ships) – one of the largest manufactures of fine jewelry in the U.S., Effy’s tax- Cruise Competeand duty-free items feature a lifetime guarantee and run the gamut from colored gemstones and diamonds to tanzanite and other top-of-the-line products.
  • Swarovski (25 ships) – one of the world’s leading retailers of fashion jewelry offering custom jewelry, pearls, sterling silver and more.
  • TAG (24 ships) – a leading manufacturer of high-end luxury timepieces, TAG’s constantly evolving line of fine watches are worn by celebrities and sports stars the world over.
  • Pandora (10 ships) – the nation’s top costume jewelry provider offers a selection of custom bracelets, rings, necklaces, and charms, including, appropriately enough, some tied to a vacation theme with cruise ships, palm trees and sandals.
  • Invicta (25 ships) – this high-end retailer offers a full line of fashion watches with hundreds of different styles to choose from – from exercise to every day and special occasions – providing consumers with a watch to suit any mood or taste.
  • Victoria’s Secret (22 ships) – purveyor of top beauty products offering a variety of popular items and accessories, including mists, lotions and perfumes, with convenient displays divided by the categories of Prestige, VS Fantasies and Rollerballs.
  • Los Cincos Soles (4 ships) – this Mexican-themed retailer offers sterling silver jewelry, souvenirs, T-shirts, authentic arts and crafts created by local artisans.

Additionally, the line’s Cherry on Top sweets shops offering bulk candies, novelty items and apparel are currently available on 20 ships.

Carnival Cruise Line Plans To Totally Transform Its Onboard Shopping Experience | 9

Carnival’s shipboard retail experience has also been enhanced with fun activities, special promotions, and giveaways, in-store parties and more.  Select ships also feature stand-alone kiosks with “wearable tech” accessories that include the latest fitness trackers, pedometers, and heart rate monitors by brands like Fossil and others.  Carnival has also made a significant investment in digital marketing across the fleet directing guests to marquee retail events and upcoming deals during their cruise.

Over the past year, Carnival has completely renovated the shopping outlets on Carnival Sensation, Carnival Elation, Carnival Conquest and Carnival Valor with Carnival Victory, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Legend and Carnival Paradise scheduled for retail refurbishments in the coming year.  The new Carnival Horizon, set to debut in spring 2018, will take the line’s retail offerings to the next level with the line’s largest, most elaborate and diverse shopping experience to date with two decks of shops, boutiques and displays featuring top-name retailers.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com. Carnival also can be found on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

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Port Canaveral Posts Record Cruise Numbers – Over 4.5 Million Passengers in Fiscal 2017

By
John Shallo
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Port Canaveral Cruise Parking Guide
Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral has announced a new record for the Port’s cruise operations. More than 4.5 million cruise passenger movements were logged at the Port in 2017, outpacing numbers set in 2016.

“Port Canaveral is proving to be the Port of choice for more cruise travelers year after year,” said Captain John Murray, Port CEO. “Our focus on providing quality service and commitments we have made to improve and expand our infrastructure ensures our cruise partners can deliver an exceptional customer experience at our Port, which provides increased jobs and business opportunities in our community.”

Cruise CompeteTotal cruise passengers, which includes multi-day passengers coupled with one-day cruise passengers, totaled 4,520,229 in fiscal year FY2017, up 6.4% from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017. Multi-day passengers totaled 4,234,545 in FY2017 up 7.1% over the previous year hitting an all-time high number of passengers.

Port Canaveral is the second busiest cruise port in the world, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and is considered a leading homeport for the world’s largest cruise lines.  Port Canaveral hosts Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International, as well as numerous port-of-call vessels from the world’s cruise lines.

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Carnival Cruise Line Increasing Capacity For Four- and Five-Day Mexico Cruises from Galveston and New Orleans in 2019

By
John Shallo
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Carnival Triumph

Carnival Dream, Carnival Valor to Operate Four- and Five-Day Mexico Cruises From Galveston and New Orleans, Respectively, Providing New Exciting Choices in Two Popular Homeports

Carnival Cruise Line has announced it will expand capacity on its short cruise offerings from Galveston and New Orleans beginning in 2019.

Carnival Dream will launch four- and five-day cruises to Mexico year-round from Galveston beginning in May 2019, becoming the newest and largest Carnival ship to operate a short cruise program from that port and providing Texans with an exciting and convenient new vacation option.

Carnival Cruise Line Increasing Capacity For Four- and Five-Day Mexico Cruises from Galveston and New Orleans in 2019 | 9In turn, Carnival Valor, currently based in Galveston, will shift to New Orleans to begin year-round four- and five-day cruises from the Big Easy beginning May 2019.  It will be the largest ship to offer a year-round short cruise schedule from New Orleans.

Four- day long weekend cruises depart Thursdays and visit Cozumel, while five-day voyages depart Mondays and Saturdays calling at Cozumel and Progreso.  Some five-day itineraries from Galveston feature Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Each of these stunning Mexican destinations offer world-class beaches, excellent shopping and dining experiences, and opportunities to visit historical attractions and landmarks, including centuries-old Mayan ruins.   A wide variety of “fun in the sun” shore excursion choices, from paddle-boarding and ziplining to ATV adventures and watersports like scuba diving and snorkeling, is also available.

“Galveston and New Orleans are two of our most popular and fastest-growing homeports and Carnival Dream and Carnival Valor provide wonderful short cruise options in these markets, offering an exciting array of features which, combined with our convenient and value-packed short cruise itineraries to Mexico, add up to an unbeatable vacation experience,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. 

Carnival Dream from Galveston

Cruise CompeteThe 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream will kick off its year-round four- and five-day schedule from Galveston beginning May 23, 2019, representing a 22 percent increase in capacity on this program.

Carnival Dream recently underwent an extensive makeover that added a number of exciting food and beverage options, including Guy’s Pig and Anchor Bar-B-Que created by Food Network star Guy Fieri, the cocktail pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar, BlueIguana Cantina serving authentic Mexican fare and the full-service Bonsai Sushi restaurant.  These complement such attractions as a WaterWorks aqua park, luxurious Cloud 9 Spa and more.

Carnival Dream will join Carnival Freedom and Carnival Vista, which repositions to Galveston in fall 2018, and together these three ships are expected to carry nearly 650,000 passengers annually from Galveston – more than any cruise line.

Carnival Valor from New Orleans

Carnival Cruise Line Increasing Capacity For Four- and Five-Day Mexico Cruises from Galveston and New Orleans in 2019 | 9The 2,974-passenger Carnival Valor will kick off its new year-round schedule of four- and five-day cruises from New Orleans May 16, 2019, replacing Carnival Triumph and representing a nearly 10 percent increase in capacity on the line’s short cruise program from that port.  Carnival Triumph will be deployed to another homeport to be announced at a later date.   Also in May 2019, Carnival Glory will take over the New Orleans-based year-round seven-day schedule of Carnival Dream.  Together, Carnival Valor and Carnival Glory are expected to carry nearly 400,000 passengers from New Orleans.

Carnival Valor last year underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation that added such popular highlights as Guy’s Burger Joint, developed in tandem with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, the Caribbean-themed RedFrog Pub, SkyBox sports bar, Alchemy Bar and the poolside RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar.   Other features on Carnival Valor include an adults-only Serenity retreat, a 214-foot-long water slide and Scarlett’s, a classic American steakhouse.

Additional Information and Reservations

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com. Carnival also can be found on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

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Introducing Celebrity Flora: A New Ship Designed for the Galapagos Islands

By
John Shallo
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Celebrity Flora seamlessly combines modern luxury, sustainability and design, redefining the expedition travel experience

Celebrity Cruises unveils another stunning revolution in ship design: Celebrity Flora is an elevated and inspired approach to marine exploration, meticulously designed expressly for the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands.

One of the most energy-efficient ships of its size in the diverse archipelago[1], the 100-guest Celebrity Flora will offer seamless sea-to-shore transportation, and includes anchorless technology that maintains the ship’s position while protecting the sensitive sea floor. Innovative outward-facing design gives guests 360-degree views of the islands, while personal suite attendants, new dining venues, an open-air stargazing platform, and expert-lead ecological seminars will round out the modern luxury vacation experience.

“Celebrity Flora marks another example of our revolutionary ship design by allowing the destination and its environment to influence every decision we’ve made,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “From the luxurious all-suite accommodations to industry-first, eco-friendly innovations, we created a ship that brings a new level of luxury, sustainability and natural exploration to the region. Guests will feel as though they’re boarding a high-end yacht for a week of unparalleled adventures, and they are!”

“We are very pleased with the announcement of Celebrity Cruises’ decision to build a cruise vessel with cutting-edge technology, designed specifically to operate around our wonderful islands,” said Enrique Ponce de León, Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism. “Celebrity Flora will undoubtedly mark a very important milestone in the tourism development of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, offering high quality and sustainable tourism.”

Designed with the Destination in Mind:

Cruise CompeteThe natural beauty of the islands, the diversity and uniqueness of the species that it harbors earned this archipelago the reputation of being a living laboratory of evolutionary processes still in progress. The region made room for the development of a large number of flora and fauna that do not exist anywhere else in the world, making the Galapagos a very unique place of global importance for the common heritage of humanity.

Featuring Celebrity’s signature outward-facing design, Celebrity Flora virtually erases boundaries and brings this typically remote destination closer to guests. Educational, research-based programming gives travelers an opportunity to continue learning about the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands.

The Marina is the primary point of access to the ship and can accommodate up to three Zodiacs at once, reducing transport time to and from land and allowing more time for guests to explore the practically untouched islands. While onboard guests will unwind in the Sunset Lounge, find solace in The Vista, an open-air hideaway with 360-degree views, cocoon-style loungers and private cabanas, and enjoy the breathtaking surrounds in the floor-to-ceiling glass-wrappedObservatory.

Darwin’s Cove and the Naturalist Center provide a bounty of information on the destination, wildlife and environmental efforts, while the Discovery Lounge will be home to Naturalist presentations and excursion information. Guests can participate in a guided astronomy tour or enjoy star-lit skies on their own from the Stargazing Platform.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily in the Seaside Restaurant. The Ocean Grill offers a casual dining space, panoramic views and Dinner Under the Stars, or guests can choose from an indulgent in-room dining experience.

Sophisticated Accommodations, Attentive Service:

Celebrity Flora transports travelers in all-suite accommodations featuring oversized bathrooms perfect for post-adventure refreshing. These modern retreats bring the outside in through Celebrity’s signature outward-facing layouts and heralded Infinite Verandas, and come complete with sustainable, natural, regionally inspired materials. Personal suite attendants cater to guests’ every need.

Celebrity Flora’s two Penthouse Suites are the largest in the Galapagos with separate indoor and outdoor living areas, customizable lighting and shades, and a telescope for stargazing or sea lion-peeping. Guests can also find relaxation in Royal Suites, Ultimate Sky Suites with Infinite Veranda, Premium Sky Suites with Infinite Veranda and Sky Suites with Infinite Veranda.

Environmental Stewardship and Innovation:

Celebrity Flora is one of the most energy-efficient ships in its class, with a 15 percent reduction of fuel consumption and equivalently fewer air emissions[2], thanks to the introduction of an advanced propulsion system, hull configuration and specially designed diesel engines. Two more firsts in the Galapagos, Celebrity Flora’s dynamic positioning system allows the ship to stay in position without physically anchoring and damaging the sea floor, with zero speed stabilizers promising smooth sailing throughout.

Celebrity will reduce the need for plastics onboard by introducing in-room water filtration stations and by converting sea water and air conditioning condensation into pure, fresh water. Any materials that can be recycled, reused or donated will be as part of a strict waste management system.

“I think this is a clear example of an intelligent investment, not only because the boat design was thought with the characteristics of the Galapagos, but because it is based on the best technology available to protect a Natural Heritage of Humanity,” said Walter Bustos, Director of Galapagos National Park. “This proposal is a mix of experiences and education so that each visitor returns to their country with a different mindset, more committed to the conservation of the environment, which is one of the objectives of the Galapagos National Park “

Experience the Evolution of Travel in the Galapagos:

Celebrity Flora will sail from Baltra year-round, making her first sailing on May 26, 2019. Bookings are now open at www.celebritycruises.com/galapagos/ships/celebrity-flora or through a travel agent, for the ship’s alternating seven-night inner and outer loop itineraries.

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