Carnival Cruise Lines Unveils New Parched Pig Craft Beers That Will Debut Aboard Carnival Horizon

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January 8, 2018

Created by Ship’s Brewmaster Colin Presby, Refreshing New Brews to be Featured at First-Ever Smokehouse|Brewhouse BBQ Restaurant Created by Food Network Star Guy Fieri

I am excited to let you know that Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled the names of the four craft beers that will be brewed aboard the new Carnival Horizon which is set to debut in Europe April 2, 2018. The delicious new brews were developed by Carnival’s expert brewmaster Colin Presby and will be offered at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse|Brewhouse. This new dining concept combines the best of both worlds – an onboard brewery and a full-service restaurant featuring “real deal” BBQ favorites and sides developed by Food Network star Guy Fieri. Not only is Guy a Celebrity Chef but, he is also a member of the American Royal National Barbecue Hall of Fame.

Carnival Cruise Lines Unveils New Parched Pig Craft Beers That Will Debut Aboard Carnival Horizon | 13 — A sample of the 18-Hour Brisket and Mac & Cheese that will be offered at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse|Brewhouse

Carnival Cruise Line's Brewmaster Colin Presby. — Carnival Cruise Line’s Brewmaster Colin Presby

The announcement was made by Presby and Carnival Vice President of Beverage Operations Edward Allen at a traditional keg-tapping ceremony held aboard Carnival Vista, the first cruise North American-based cruise ship to feature an onboard brewery. I was honored to be on-hand for this event as it happened in Miami. Here is a short video of the keg-tapping ceremony, a longer interview will be posted soon:

The names of the beers are playfully inspired by the varied barbecue offerings at Smokehouse|Brewhouse. The four new beers on Carnival Horizon include:

ParchedPig Smoked Porter – brewed with in-house smoked malt, this robust, full-bodied beer offers big and bold flavors and notes of molasses and hickory smoke, providing the perfect complement to Smokehouse|Brewhouse’s BBQ favorites
ParchedPig Farmhouse Ale – this lightly hopped beer is distinguished by its blond color, fruity and complex character with mild spice notes that balance the brew’s dry finish
ParchedPig Toasted Amber Ale – highlighted by its rich amber color and notes of toasted caramel and biscuit, this beer is well balanced, smooth and highly drinkable
ParchedPig West Coast IPA – the embodiment of a traditional West Coast India Pale Ale, this hoppy, intense beer is loaded with bitterness with a bright flavor profile and distinctive aroma of citrus and pine

Carnival Cruise Line has announced the names of the four craft beers that will debut aboard Carnival Horizon. — Carnival Cruise Line has announced the names of the four craft beers that will be brewed aboard the new Carnival Horizon which is set to debut in Europe April 2, 2018.

“Smokehouse|Brewhouse is a unique culinary concept and we’ve created four fantastic brewed-on-board craft beers that not only showcase different tastes and brewing styles but also serve as the ideal accompaniment to the venue’s delicious array of barbecue offerings,” said Presby.

The brewery takes center stage at Smokehouse|Brewhouse, which, in addition to delicious craft beers and custom cocktails, will offer a rustic, down-home décor as well as a variety of Fieri-designed favorites, all smoked “low and slow” using the chef’s signature rubs and spices. The tantalizing offerings include smoked-on-board brisket, Memphis-style back ribs, dry-rubbed chicken, pulled pork, and cedar-smoked salmon, along with the chef’s own take on traditional sides and his signature sauces. Dinner menu items are offered on an a la carte basis with a free-of-charge self-service BBQ lunch buffet available on embarkation day and sea days.

The delicious new brews will be featured at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse|Brewhouse. This new dining concept combines the best of both worlds – an onboard brewery and a full-service restaurant featuring “real deal” BBQ favorites and sides developed by Food Network star Guy Fieri.

A host of other dining venues aboard Carnival Horizon are also available, including the line’s first teppanyaki restaurant, Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant, Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, the Mexican-themed BlueIguana Cantina eatery, the 24-hour Pizzeria del Capitano, and the New England-inspired Seafood Shack.

Other features include the groundbreaking bike-ride-in-the-sky attraction called SkyRide, an IMAX Theatre, and the first Dr. Seuss-themed water park at sea. A wide range of accommodations – from spa cabins with exclusive privileges at the luxurious Cloud 9 Spa, extra-roomy staterooms in Family Harbor to tropics-inspired Havana staterooms and suites with exclusive daytime access to a Cuban-themed bar and pool – will also be offered.

Carnival Horizon is scheduled to make its maiden voyage April 2, 2018, with a 13-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona – the first of four round-trip departures from that port. Carnival Horizon will reposition to the U.S. with a 14-day trans-Atlantic crossing from Barcelona to New York data-term=”goog_1871079111″>May 9-23, 2018.

Following its summer schedule of four-day Bermuda and eight-day Caribbean departures from the Big Apple, Carnival Horizon will shift to Miami and kick off a year-round schedule of six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises beginning Sept. 22, 2018. Carnival Horizon will also offer a special two-day cruise to Nassau from Miami Sept. 20-22, 2018.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visit Carnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL.

This article is brought to by Cruise Compete. CruiseCompete.com allows you to easily compare multiple offers from Cruise Experts.

Best places to travel in the world

By

John Shallo

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January 3, 2018

Travel has always excited the fabric of our being from the beginning of time. Today’s globalised and travel friendly world makes it easy to globetrot as far as the heart desires. While there may be many places you can add to your wish list of travel dreams, there are some destinations which you should add to the top of the list.

Some of the best places to travel in the world include world famous landmarks and historic wonders. Paris, France is one of these examples; where afternoons can be spend gazing at the clouds in the park under the Eifel Tower, or learning about history in one of the many museums. Paris is also a fantastic spot to visit the casino, but be sure to only visit these real money casinos as online gaming is illegal in France.

Another must-see travel zone is Las Vegas, Nevada. If you are all about the excitement of flashing lights and the buzz of constant city noise, go to Vegas to have the experience of a lifetime. The casinos are world renowned as the best place to gamble.

If you are looking for the greatest gambling success along with a unique cultural experience, Macau, China is the city of your wildest dreams. Macau features all the exciting aspects of Chinese life within the abidance of the law, unlike that of many other strict areas of China.

The chances of enjoying a trip and the possibility of winning big in these cities are so high you simply can’t miss out. No matter which travel destinations you choose, experiencing a different area of the world comes with unforgettable memories.

MSC Seaside Officially Named In Unforgettable Ceremony At PortMiami

By

John Shallo

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December 22, 2017

Cruise Addicts was honored to be in attendance last night as MSC Seaside was officially named. In a unforgettable ceremony by international screen legend and Godmother for all MSC Cruises’ ships, Sophia Loren. MSC Seaside, already recognized as one of the more innovative cruise ships in the industry, is the second ship to be launched in the past six months by the leading European cruise line as part of its industry-unprecedented 12 new mega-ships that MSC Cruises, the Switzerland-founded and based world’s largest privately owned cruise line, will bring into service between 2017 and 2026.

“MSC Seaside’s naming embodies a pivotal moment for MSC Cruises and the industry overall. She is the first ship of the fifth new prototype that we have developed since we entered this industry only in 2003, and she introduces a wholly-innovative concept that has already set a new standard for the industry to follow,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman. “The distinctive and unique Seaside Class is designed to bring guests closer to the sea to enjoy cruising in warm weather, while pushing the boundaries of maritime and guest-centric technology – the way only a cruise line with over 300 years of maritime tradition could have done.”

“MSC Seaside has been designed to spearhead the next phase of our growth in North America, a cornerstone of our global strategy. She will be one of three MSC Cruises ships to homeport in Miami – MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Divina, one from each of our newest classes of ship. She marks our ambition to establish a significant presence in North America, after firmly rooting our position as number one cruise brand in Europe and having established a leading presence in other key cruise markets globally,” added Mr. Vago.

MSC Seaside Officially Named In Unforgettable Ceremony At PortMiami | 13 — Captain Scala, Godmother Sophia Loren and Pierfrancesco Vago

MSC Cruises also announced a new partnership specifically for MSC Seaside and relevant for the North American market. The new partnership with the Andrea Bocelli Foundation (ABF) where MSC Cruises’ guest donations will support ABF’s valuable work in Haiti, one of the poorest countries in the world currently facing exceptional challenges.

Every dollar donated on board by a guest will go directly to the Foundation to make a real difference, establishing schools that become community centers and launching projects such as the Mobile Clinic, providing health care assistance and prevention, clean water, lighting and agricultural development, transforming the lives of their communities.

Mr. Vago commented on the ABF partnership, “MSC Seaside will sail year around in the Caribbean, and with this partnership we wish to express our commitment to giving something back to the places where we operate. This charitable activity is in fact focused on helping the children of Haiti. They are the future and deserve the best and, as a family-owned company, this is a cause close to our hearts.” To mark the launch of the partnership with ABF, the world-famous tenor Andrea Bocelli took to the stage during the naming ceremony with 30 children from the Voices of Haiti, a talented choir of Haitian school students aged between 6 and 14 that brings music into the schools of the ABF and St. Luke Foundation for Haiti.

“The sea is a place of freedom; it is the guardian of fascinating wonders, of answers that help us grow. Being an artist means being an explorer. It is therefore a particularly joyful opportunity for me to bring on board my singing and most importantly the voices, joy and enthusiasm of the children’s choir the ‘Voices of Haiti,’” said Andrea Bocelli. “This choir is the result of one of the educational projects carried out, in Haiti and beyond, by the Foundation bearing my name.”

Mr. Bocelli continued, “MSC Cruises has always supported philanthropic projects and, in line with this tradition, MSC Seaside’s naming marks a further inauguration: the launch of the partnership between MSC Cruises and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation. It will therefore be possible to set sail together and to simultaneously begin a compelling adventure of solidarity, of getting to know each other and supporting our important initiatives while on board.” In collaboration with the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, the project aims to reach over 2,550 children in five communities in Haiti.

Andrea Bocelli took to the stage during the naming ceremony with 30 children from the Voices of Haiti. — To mark the launch of the partnership with ABF, the world-famous tenor Andrea Bocelli took to the stage during the naming ceremony with 30 children from the Voices of Haiti, a talented choir of Haitian school students aged between 6 and 14 that brings music into the schools of the ABF and St. Luke Foundation for Haiti.

High quality, international dining is one of the key highlights of the MSC Cruises offering for guests and MSC Seaside takes this to the next level with six specialty restaurants featuring concepts from around the globe. One of these is a brand new dining experience from pan-Asian chef and international culinary pioneer, Roy Yamaguchi, with whom MSC Cruises has partnered to create a new Asian-Fusion dining concept, Asian Market Kitchen.

To celebrate the coming into service of MSC Seaside, the Swiss-based global cruise line hosted a highprofile event in PortMiami and paid homage to traditional seafaring customs. Guests in attendance included guests from around the globe, including authorities and key partners from the travel industry, as well as US and global media alongside guests from closer to home.

Headlining the entertainment for the evening’s Naming Ceremony was multiple GRAMMY and LATIN GRAMMY winner, Ricky Martin, who is well-known for his high-energy and thrilling performances that have captivated millions of people throughout the world. Beloved by fans worldwide for his instinctive understanding of rhythm, passion for performing, and equal compassion for giving, Ricky Martin truly encompasses the international spirit of MSC Cruises and the city of Miami.

Making a guest appearance at the event was Miami football legend and Hall of Fame quarterback, Dan Marino, who was with the Miami Dolphins for 17 years. Earlier this year, MSC Cruises signed a partnership with the Miami Dolphins and became the official cruise line for the team, further strengthening the cruise line’s relationship with the South Florida community – where its US operations are based. Fans and guests will have the chance to experience the Miami Dolphins at sea and meet team alumni on a themed cruise on MSC Seaside in 2018. Marino presented MSC Cruises USA President Roberto Fusaro with a signed football helmet to be displayed on board as a symbol of the partnership.

The finale of the evening’s events was the time-honored tradition of breaking a bottle of champagne over the bow of the ship as MSC Seaside was officially named aloud. As a company with a strong maritime heritage dating over 300 years, observing these seafaring traditions is important to MSC Cruises and bringing good luck to this new ship tonight, as always, was Sophia Loren as Godmother to her 12th MSC Cruises ship. As one of the most celebrated Italian actresses of our time, the glamorous screen-legend is practically part of the MSC Cruises family.

In charge of the whole evening’s entertainment was actor and popular American TV host, Mario Lopez, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. Lopez also welcomed guests to the star-lit festivities on the “Blue Carpet,” where celebrities gave interviews, took photographs, and met the crowds. Lopez then took to the stage to host the evening’s entertainment.

But the main star of the show was none other than MSC Seaside. Quite unlike anything else at sea, MSC Seaside will shine among Miami’s skyline commanding attention with its revolutionary design. Inspired by the architecture and lifestyle of Miami, the ship will be right at home in warm South Florida waters. Highly-innovative in design as well as on board features, the ship will feature world-class entertainment, a range of international dining concepts, a gorgeous spa, outstanding family-friendly facilities, the private “ship within a ship” MSC Yacht Club, and expansive outdoor spaces. The striking MSC Seaside is just one more reason for guests from North America, and all over the world, to join MSC Cruises on an unforgettable trip that follows the sun.

MSC Seaside will sail year-round from Miami to the Caribbean offering 7-night eastern and western Caribbean itineraries starting December 23. For more information visit https://www.msccruisesusa.com

This article is brought to by Cruise Compete. CruiseCompete.com allows you to easily compare multiple offers from Cruise Experts.

Viking Sea Ship Review – Empires of the Mediterranean – Viking Ocean Cruises

By

Randy Warren

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December 17, 2017

Join Cruise Addicts as we embark on our Viking Sea video review of Viking Ocean Cruises‘ “Empires of the Mediterranean” itinerary aboard the Viking Sea. Our journey begins in Venice, Italy and includes ten days and nine ports of call. Watch as we explore Venice, Koper, Zadar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Santorini and our final stop in Athens, Greece.

The Viking Difference

Designed for discerning travelers with interests in science, history, culture 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. Onboard, guests find serene Scandinavian spaces, where every room is beautiful and functional, quiet and filled with light. All-veranda ships mean that guests experience every day with a new, expansive vista. With the most al fresco dining 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 onshore and onboard. And only The Viking Way brings guests itineraries that feature Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access experiences.

In addition, Viking Inclusive Value provides a small ship experience at a big ship value and no nickel-and-diming – with every cruise fare including a veranda stateroom, shore excursions in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including: beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service—an included value of more than $200 per person, per day for an average cruise.

For more information you can visit www.VikingCruises.com. To book your cruise call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent.

This article is brought to by Cruise Compete. CruiseCompete.com allows you to easily compare multiple offers from Cruise Experts.

Viking Sun Sets Sail On First World Cruise

By

John Shallo

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December 15, 2017

Sold Out 141-day Itinerary Will Bring Guests to 35 Countries on Five Continents

Today Cruise Addicts joined Viking® (www.vikingcruises.com) in Miami as they celebrated the kickoff of its inaugural World Cruise on its fourth and newest ocean ship,Viking Sun®, for the sold out 141-day itinerary. Viking Sun will spend nearly the next five months on the World Cruise, which spans five continents, 35 countries and 64 ports. The cruise will sail from Miami to London, guests will first explore Cuba and the Caribbean, before sailing the Panama Canal to call on Los Angeles, the home of Viking’s U.S. headquarters and first West Coast port of call. Viking Sun will then sail to the South Pacific, Australia and Asia, where the ship will be christened in Shanghai on March 8, 2018. From there, Viking Sun will continue on with ports of call in Asia and then Europe, before finishing the World Cruise in London on May 5.

“Our World Cruises are the most extensive and culturally immersive journeys available in the industry. For two decades, we have continued to expand our destination-focused itineraries to new regions of the world, so as our fleet grows it is a natural progression for us to offer grand voyages of this scope for our guests,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our guests are experienced travelers who want to explore the world in comfort; our offerings allow them to be immersed be in the cultures of the world when they are onshore and when they are onboard our award-winning fleet of sister ships.”

Viking Executives Celebrate and Speak With Guests — Viking Executives Celebrate with invited guests onboard in Miami.

In addition to guests, also sailing on the World Cruise will be six casks of Viking’s own “Linje” Aquavit. In keeping with a Norwegian tradition that dates back hundreds of years, the Scandinavian spirit will mature in oak barrels during the sailing, crossing the equator (linje) twice as part of the maturation process. According to the tradition, it is believed that the moving seas and frequent temperature changes cause more flavor to be extracted from the casks.

Viking Sun will continue to sail the globe during Viking’s 2019 World Cruise. The recently announced 128-day itinerary from Miami to London, will visit five continents and immerse guests in the rich cultures of 21 countries from South America and the South Pacific to Australia and Africa. Like on all Viking itineraries, World Cruise guests will enjoy a complimentary shore excursion in each of the 64 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.

Viking Sun

Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, have 465 staterooms and host 930 guests. Classified by Cruise Critic® as a “small ship,” the all-veranda Viking Sun is the newest addition to Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet, which also includes Viking Star®, Viking Sea® and Viking Sky®. Viking will welcome two more sister ships in the next two years, including Viking Orion® in summer 2018; with the arrival of a sixth ship in 2019, Viking will be the largest small ship ocean cruise line. Two additional ships are also on order for delivery in 2021 and 2022.

The Viking Difference

Designed for discerning travelers with interests in science, history, culture 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. Onboard, guests find serene Scandinavian spaces, where every room is beautiful and functional, quiet and filled with light. All-veranda ships mean that guests experience every day with a new, expansive vista. With the most al fresco dining 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 onshore and onboard. And only The Viking Way brings guests itineraries that feature Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access experiences.

In addition, Viking Inclusive Value provides a small ship experience at a big ship value and no nickel-and-diming – with every cruise fare including a veranda stateroom, shore excursions in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including: beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; Wi-Fi; self-service laundry; access to the Thermal Suite in the LivNordic Spa; and 24-hour room service—an included value of more than $200 per person, per day for an average cruise.

Booking Details

From now through December 31, 2017, 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.

Carnival Cruise Line Pops #OpenFun, Bringing Island Warmth to Chilly New York City

By

John Shallo

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December 13, 2017

World’s Most Popular Cruise Line Invites Consumers to ‘Crack Open a Can of the Caribbean’ with Unique Vending Machine in Manhattan Dispensing Cans of Tropics-Infused Air

Carnival brought the magic of a Caribbean cruise to the mainland with an interactive and immersive pop-up activation, featuring a heated tent, a steel drum band, and scents from the islands piped throughout the air.

With winter approaching, now is the time for consumers to start thinking about an escape from the cold and begin planning their next Caribbean vacation.

To celebrate the Caribbean’s stunning island destinations and promote the launch of its newest ship, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Cruise Line captured and canned real island air from tropical ports of call and invited New Yorkers to stop and smell the tropics with a truly unique and “scent-sational” experience that took place in Manhattan’s Greeley Square Park.

The event’s centerpiece was a vending machine dispensing the chance to win a Carnival cruise and free cans of real island air infused with natural scents unique to each destination. Featured scents included Wild Banana Orchid from Grand Cayman, Puerto Rican Coffee from San Juan, Sugarcane Rum from St. Kitts, Island Coconut from Cozumel, and Ocean Breeze from the sea – all representing the places that Carnival Horizon will be visiting during her Caribbean itineraries.

Carnival designed this activation to give consumers a “whiff” of their next vacation after a recent survey conducted by the cruise line found that 95% of Americans agree that scent can trigger vacation memories and 56% agree that a particular scent has motivated them to plan a vacation.

In conjunction with the New York City promotion, Carnival is hosting a national sweepstakes on its social channels (Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook) through Dec. 16 that asks people to share what scent inspires them to vacation using the hashtag #OpenFun for a chance to win a cruise on the line’s newest ship.

“As winter is fast approaching, now is the time to start thinking about your next vacation,” said Stephanie Esposito, director of digital marketing for Carnival Cruise Line. “Our #OpenFun campaign is designed to promote travel to the Caribbean – the world’s most popular cruising region – by encouraging consumers to stop and smell the tropics, get a ‘scents’ of what a cruise experience might be like, and maybe win a cruise vacation,” she added.

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, Carnival Horizon will offer unique features like the first-ever Dr. Seuss-themed water park, the new Smokehouse Brewhouse with traditional downhome BBQ favorites created by Food Network star Guy Fieri along with brewed-on-board craft beers at an onboard brewery, and the line’s first teppanyaki dining venue.

Other innovations include a groundbreaking bike-ride-in-the-sky attraction called SkyRide, an IMAX Theatre, and a suspended ropes course that’s part of the fun-filled SportSquare open-air recreation area. A wide range of accommodations will also be offered, including spa cabins offering exclusive privileges at the Cloud 9 Spa, extra-roomy staterooms in Family Harbor, and tropical-inspired Havana staterooms and suites with exclusive daytime access to a Cuban-themed bar and pool.

Following its inaugural European season, Carnival Horizon will launch a summer schedule of four-day Bermuda and eight-day Caribbean voyages from New York before repositioning to Miami for year-round six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises beginning in September 2018.

To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line, visit Carnival.com. For reservations, contact any travel agent or call 1-800-CARNIVAL. Carnival can also be found on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

This article is brought to by Cruise Compete. CruiseCompete.com allows you to easily compare multiple offers from Cruise Experts.

Why Cruise Travelers Still (Really) Love the Virgin Islands: An Inside Look After the Hurricane

By

John Shallo

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December 13, 2017

Considering a cruise to the Virgin Islands this season?

More than two months ago, Hurricanes Irma and Maria swept through the islands, halting tourism and port activities. Today, we have answers to your questions: Find out what to expect now, and when to plan your next cruise. Plus, get access to post-hurricane cruise traveler resources and hear remarks from recent travelers to St. Thomas.

Restaurants & Cruise Activities Update

The reports are in, and they’re looking good. Cleanup efforts have been fruitful and the islands are welcoming guests as cruise ships return to port in St. Thomas. The Charlotte Amalie shopping area is now open and bustling with activity. Port attractions, restaurants and shore excursions are available for cruise passengers. Doug Parker of Cruise Radio sums it up nicely:

“The Caribbean is open for business. Yes, not everything is the way it was…. But the beaches are gorgeous, the people are excited to have cruise ships back and there are all kinds of adventures to be had.”

Beaches to Visit Now

The warm sun, white sand, and turquoise waters have always been cruise visitors’ top ranking experiences – and they’re favorites still today. A recent TripAdvisor traveler reported that, “The water where we swam was silky warm and luxurious.” And a boat charter can take you anywhere you want to explore, from private beach combing to snorkeling, and have you back to port in time for departure.

Here are top beaches that are looking beautiful after the hurricanes:

Hawksnest Beach, St. John
Honeymoon Beach, St. John
Trunk Bay, St. John
Magens Bay, St. Thomas

The holidays are the best time to cruise to the Virgin Islands. At Sonic Charters, our goal is simple: to ensure that your visit to the U.S. Virgin Islands is greater than you ever dreamed. Plan an unforgettable holiday cruise in the Virgin Islands and receive $100 off a Luxury Sea Ray Sundancer rental using Coupon Code: HOLIDAY17.

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

By

John Shallo

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December 10, 2017

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.

Carnival Sunshine Will Begin Sailing Year-Round From Charleston Starting May 2019 | 13 — Guests aboard the Carnival Sunshine are served Far East cuisine at the Ji Ji Asian Kitchen. Photo by Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines

At the Carnival Sunshine’s cocktail pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar, mixologists prepare custom-designed cocktails using herbs, spices and other interesting ingredients. (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Lines)

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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December 4, 2017

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.”

Meaning 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

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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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