Nine Things To Like And One To LOVE About New Harmony Of The Seas

March 26, 2016

New Harmony of the Seas is a shiny new cruise ship from Royal Caribbean International. That’s the same people who have offered sailings in their middle name for decades. Founded in Norway, the company launched the first in an initial trio of ships in 1970. First was Song of Norway, followed by Nordic Prince in 1972 and Sun Viking in 1978. From there, Royal Caribbean and its ships have grown to be one of the largest travel companies in the world. One of the ways they got there was by building unique ships. Each has a character of its own. Grouped by class, each one has sister ships of roughly the same size. Still, each is unique. New Harmony of the Seas is no exception. Let’s take a look at ten unique reasons to like Harmony of the Seas.

Like- Size Matters- Technically an “Oasis class” ship, Harmony of the Seas will weigh in 227,000 tons. Sisters Oasis and Allure of the Seas come in at 225,282 tons. New Harmony of the Seas will technically be the new largest cruise ship in the world. For cruise travelers who want bragging rights, you’ll need to sail Harmony to keep your badge of honor.
Like- The First Water Slide. Royal Caribbean will be adding water slides to other ships in the fleet. But Harmony of the Seas will be the first to have one. New Harmony will also be the first to have the Perfect Storm. That’s actually a set of three slides named Cyclone, Typhoon and Supercell. Each is three decks high. All will be towering five decks above the Central Park neighborhood.
Like- Ultimate Abyss is the tallest slide at sea, actually two of them and not a waterslide as guests sit on mats to ride it. At 10 stories high, the slides begin in the Pool and Sports Zone high up on deck sixteen and ends in the Boardwalk neighborhood far below. Sliding at nine miles per hour, guests will experience sound effects on the way down the 100-foot drop.
Like- Grease- Broadway’s hit musical Grease is the headline show onboard new Harmony of the Seas. The never-before-seen stage production, specially adapted by Royal Caribbean Productions, will boast a soundtrack of crowd favorites such as “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee,” “Born to Hand-Jive,” “Beauty School Dropout” and more.
Like- Royal Suite Class Experience- The most discerning cruise travelers will enjoy an experience like no other featuring a wide-range of benefits and amenities that they expect from a world-class luxury vacation. Divided into three levels, Star, Sky and Sea class all add superior service, upgraded amenities, personalized experiences and exclusive access that those in the regular inside, oceanview and balcony accommodations will never see.
Like- Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine will bring Harmony of the Seas guests a chance to experience a unique culinary adventure for the senses when chefs twist their culinary kaleidoscopes in a whimsical setting that challenges the imagination with unique new cuisine.
Like- Enhanced Adventure Ocean Programming- New in Harmony’s Adventure Ocean Theater is Away We Go!, a black light puppet show created by Tony® award-nominated actors and imaginative producers John Tartaglia by and Michael Shawn Lewis.
Like- New Amenities for Central Park and Boardwalk Staterooms- Interior-facing Boardwalk and Central Park staterooms will get bonus amenities in a move to fill the cabins that are usually priced very nicely in comparison to others on board. In the more adult-oriented Central Park neighborhood, guests will get lunch for two at Jamie’s Italian, a bottle of wine upon arrival and special casino perks. In the more family-friendly Boardwalk neighborhood, it’s lunch or dinner for four at Johnny Rockets, a soda beverage package for two and private time on the 38-foot tall rock wall.
Like- Quantum Features. Introduced on new Quantum class and brought to new Harmony of the Seas, Wonderland Restaurant grows to a two-story venue and Bionic Bartenders hitch a ride. Working tirelessly, the robot bartenders craft concoctions from 30 spirits and 20 mixers. Also on Harmony of the Seas, WOW bands to open stateroom doors and pay for stuff not included in the cruise fare.

New Harmony Feature To LOVE- It’s Pushy, Perhaps To A Fault–

To accommodate Harmony of the Seas at Florida’s Port Everglades, older sister Oasis of the Seas will head north to Port Canaveral, gobbling up as many as 6000 of the cruise travelers sailing from the Central Florida port every week. That might translate to a fare war of sorts as other lines vie for passengers to fill up their ships as well. Initially priced higher sailing from (harder to get to) Port Canaveral than sailing from (easy access) Port Everglades, look for Oasis of the Seas pricing to drop closer to the ship’s November move. Meanwhile, pay special attention to prices on Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and other Royal Caribbean ships sailing from Port Canaveral. 6000 passengers is a big bite out of the apple. Still, two things we know for sure: Cruise lines know reducing prices fills ships and those floating hotels can be moved rather quickly if the competition does not yield the desired occupancy levels. Count on both happening, briefly, thanks to Harmony of the Seas.

Flickr cover photo- m01229

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

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse Photo Gallery

John Shallo

March 25, 2016

Guy's Pig & Anchor — A Plate of Happiness

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse aboard Carnival Magic

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse Photo Gallery | 8 — Yum!

Guy's Smoked Andouille Sausage — Guy’s Smoked Andouille Sausage

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse Menu

Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri — whose Guy’s Burger Joints on Carnival Cruise Line ships have earned a reputation as the best burgers at sea — has expanded his seagoing culinary offerings with a new eatery aboard Carnival Magic called Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse.

The casual, open-air smokehouse is located on Carnival Magic’s Lanai on Promenade Deck. It’s open from noon to 2:30 p.m. on sea days and is free of charge.

The smokehouse offers a wide variety of BBQ favorites smoked right on board over hickory and cherry wood using Guy’s signature recipes, rubs, and spices.

Countdown to Koningsdam Episode 7: Crew Arrivals

John Shallo

March 25, 2016

Hosted by Johnathan Rogers, Koningsdam‘s cruise director, the video, this video features Hotel Director Stan Kuppens, who talks about the crew arriving at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard, loading supplies onboard and preparing the ship for delivery as deck, engine and hotel officers also make their way to Italy.

“The officers and crew are the heart of our ships, and we wouldn’t be able to fully prepare for Koningsdam‘s delivery without their support and dedication,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line’s president. “The ship is nearing delivery, and we know our fans will enjoy seeing the crew at the shipyard working on final preparations.”

When it sets sail, Koningsdam will have 1,036 officers and crew on board, and approximately 350 of those employees will be at the shipyard in Italy prior to delivery. In addition to loading supplies and helping the ship get ready for delivery, crew members also are assisting with cabin inspections, washing linens and getting fitted for uniforms.

All officers and crew will move on board approximately three weeks before the March 31 delivery and bring the ship to life in anticipation of the April 8 Premiere Voyage.

A Game Changer

Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship for Holland America Line. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public spaces and venues while still featuring popular amenities guests associate with Holland America Line.

Guests will enjoy fine dining in several alternative restaurants including Sel de Mer, a new French seafood brasserie; a new immersive farm-to-table concept dinner experience in the Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine; a redesigned Lido Market with themed serving stations; a stunning main dining room; and favorites such as Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto Italian restaurant and pan-Asian Tamarind. The ship also will feature Holland America Line’s first purpose-built staterooms for families and single staterooms among its 1,331 guest accommodations.

Onboard entertainment will be taken to a new level with the energetic Music Walk area featuring all genres of music showcased in venues including Lincoln Center Stage, offering chamber music nightly; Billboard Onboard, where live musicians rock the crowd with chart-topping hits; and the popular B.B. King’s Blues Club in the Queen’s Lounge, bringing the best of Memphis music to sea. With the 270-degree LED projection at World Stage, new concepts for show time performances will immerse the audience in panoramic visual and sound effects.

For more information about Holland America Line and Koningsdam, consult a travel professional, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

Princess Cruises Reveals Next Year’s Itineraries and Programs

Dana Lawson

March 25, 2016

Crown Princess in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

Six Princess Cruises’ ships will sail Alaska’s waters next summer offering multiple itinerary options, immersive onboard culinary and cultural experiences, and a variety of “Land & Sea Vacations” for further exploring the state’s vast wilderness.

The line’s signature “Voyage of the Glaciers” itinerary — with its unrivaled glacier-viewing opportunities — will be offered on Coral Princess, Star Princess and Island Princess between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver, B.C.

Cruises through the Inside Passage — with its ever-changing scenery from picturesque shores to quaint coastal towns — will be offered aboard Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess from Seattle and Grand Princess from San Francisco.

While on board, guests will encounter a variety of ways to engage in authentic experiences through the award-winning North to Alaska program. It features the newest Cook My Catch, an exclusive culinary program allowing guests to return from select Princess fishing excursions to have the chef prepare their very own catch of the day.

Also offered in 2017, the crowd-favorite Puppies in the Piazza, where guests can interact with real Alaskan sled dog puppies that are brought on board. On land, guests will hear first-hand tales from mountain climbers who have conquered Denali as they tell the exhilarating stories of their journey in the new Hudson Theater.

In addition, the cruise line’s “Land & Sea Vacations” will offer flexible ways to delve deeper into the fascinating Alaska frontier. Land tours are combined with a seven-day “Voyage of the Glaciers” cruise and include the company’s premier wilderness lodges, exclusive rail service, plus visits to the top two attractions in Alaska – Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park.

All 2017 Alaska cruises and “Land and Sea Vacations” are open for booking.

“Princess continues to offer guests the best of this beautiful state while on land and at sea,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. “From wilderness and glaciers to fresh salmon and sled dog puppies, the newest North to Alaska experiences truly delivers on our commitment to ensuring our guests come back new.”

Princess’ 2017 Alaska program includes:

Alaska Cruises
With 113 departures from Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver and Whittier — featuring unique ports and destinations — options abound for exploring Alaska in 2017 aboard Princess ships, including:

Voyage of the Glaciers – Princess’ most popular Gulf of Alaska sailings between Vancouver and Whittier features two glacier-viewing experiences on every voyage, with visits to the UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park plus either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
Inside Passage –This awe-inspiring part of Alaska, known for its lush scenery and pristine fjords, will be featured on seven- and 10-day roundtrip voyages with the option to visit Glacier Bay on select sailings from Seattle, Vancouver and San Francisco.

Alaska Land & Sea Vacations
Princess offers guests more than 20 “Land and Sea Vacations” in 2017, most featuring multiple nights at Princess-owned Wilderness Lodges to experience the grandeur of Denali. Guests will once again be able to purchase a pre-paid meal package for the land portion of their vacation in 2017. Options include:

Denali Explorer – As Princess’ most popular “Land & Sea Vacation,” these itineraries feature multiple nights at the line’s Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and/or Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge.
On Your Own – An affordable option for independent-minded travelers, these itineraries offer a flexible way to see the heart of Alaska. Tours follow similar routes as Denali Explorer options but do not include any pre-planned excursions, giving travelers the opportunity to customize their own experience.
Off the Beaten Path – These itineraries are designed to take travelers beyond Denali to sought-after, remote regions of the state such as the Kenai Peninsula and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.
Connoisseur – The line’s highest level of service, these tours provide a truly immersive experience. With a professional tour director, most meals included, and enhanced sightseeing, guests experience the best of the great land.
Heart of the Rockies Plus Rail – This 14-night cruisetour originates in Calgary and includes daylight Silverleaf rail service on the Rocky Mountaineer. The fully-escorted land tour combines with a seven-day northbound “Voyage of the Glaciers” cruise on Star Princess and includes most breakfasts and dinners.

Viking Ocean Cruises Takes Delivery of Viking Sea

John Shallo

March 24, 2016

Viking Ocean Cruises has taken delivery of Viking Sea, the company’s second ship. The delivery ceremony took place today when the ship was presented at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy. On April 3, Viking Sea will set sail from Istanbul and will make her way through the Mediterranean and into the Atlantic on her way to be officially christened on May 5 on London’s Thames River in Greenwich. Following the christening, Viking Sea will spend her maiden season sailing itineraries in Scandinavia and the Baltic, as well as the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.

“What a remarkable 12 months this has been, launching our first ocean ship, taking delivery of our second ship and preparing for the final outfitting of our third ship. I am proud of everyone at Viking and Fincantieri for their contributions,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises. “As we take delivery of Viking Sea we now double Viking’s ocean capacity, which demonstrates how enthusiastic our guests are for destination-focused cruises. We look forward to further increasing our presence next year and the years after that.”

Viking Star's Wintergarden — **Viking Star’s Wintergarden**

The all-veranda Viking Sea is a sister ship to Viking Star, which launched in April 2015 to great customer and industry acclaim. In addition to being named “Best New Ocean Ship” in the Cruise Critic® 2015 Editors’ Picks Awards, Viking Star received three First Place Placements in the 6th Annual Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards. The ship was also rated number one in its category in Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2016. In 2015, Viking was also rated the highest of all river and ocean cruise lines in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards.

Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, boast 465 cabins and accommodate 930 passengers. Viking Sea is the second of six ocean cruise ships on order. The third ship, Viking Sky, will be delivered in early 2017; the three remaining yet-to-be-named ships will be delivered in late 2017, 2018 and 2020, respectively.

Designed for discerning travelers, Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. The Viking Difference is providing guests with extraordinarily well-designed cruises that bring them closer to the cultures of the world. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port, more overnights and fewer days at sea. 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 freso 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 Cruising provides a small ship experience at a big ship value—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—a value of more than $2,400 per couple for an average cruise.

Viking Ocean Cruises Celebrates Float Out Of Third Ship

By
John Shallo
-

March 23, 2016

Marit Barstad, sister of Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, served as Viking Sky’s madrina and welded commemorative coins under the ship’s mast.

Orders Three Additional Ships, Will Have Six Sister Ships by 2020

Today Viking Ocean Cruises announced its third ship—the 930-passenger Viking Sky—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time that the new ship touches water. The traditional ceremony took place yesterday at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, just one day before the company takes delivery of its second ship, Viking Sea, which will officially debut to guests next month. Viking Sky is scheduled for delivery in early 2017.

Viking also announced that it has placed an order with Fincantieri for three additional sister ships, which will bring Viking’s total number of ocean ships to six by 2020.

“It is a special day when a new ship meets water for the first time. This is our third ship to be floated out in three years, so it is indeed a proud moment for our entire Viking family,” said Torstein Hagen, founder and chairman of Viking Cruises. “Our first ship, Viking Star, has enjoyed great success in her maiden season. I look forward to her five sister ships experiencing the same respective success as they debut over the coming years.”

The Winter Garden

The float out ceremony is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. Viking Sky’s float out began at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time, and in keeping with maritime tradition, a madrina – a special woman of honor – assisted with the ceremony. Marit Barstad, sister of Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, served as Viking Sky’s madrina and welded commemorative coins under the ship’s mast that represented three family birth years: 1911 (mother Ragnhild “Mamsen” Hagen, after whom the onboard Norwegian deli Mamsen’s is named; 1943 (Ms. Barstad’s own birth year) and 1948 (brother and Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen’s birth year). Ms. Barstad also cut a cord to allow water to begin flowing into the ship’s building dock. Following a two-day process that will set Viking Sky afloat, she will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.

A Growing Ocean Fleet – Viking Star, Viking Sea and Viking Sky

Classified by many as “Small Ship’s”, Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with only 465 cabins and accommodate 930 passengers. Viking Sky is the third of six ocean cruise ships on order and will be delivered in early 2017; the three remaining yet-to-be-named ships will be delivered in late 2017, 2018 and 2020, respectively. The fleet features understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design. Highlights include:

The Explorer’s Suite

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 features 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 features a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.
The Explorers Lounge

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. Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2016 named it one of the “5 best cruise ship spas.

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.

The Chef’s Table aboard Viking Star

Dining Choices: Viking Star offers 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 Star offers 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 Star features 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.

Viking Star’s Pool

The Viking Difference

Viking Star’s Explorer’s Lounge

Viking offers guests “the thinking person’s cruise” as an alternative to mainstream cruises. The Viking Difference is providing guests with extraordinarily well-designed cruises that bring them closer to the cultures of the world. Ships are small to get guests closer to their destination, with more time in port, more overnights and fewer days at sea. 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 freso 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 Cruising provides a small ship experience at a big ship value—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—a value of more than $2,400 per couple for an average cruise.

Interested In Booking?

You can take advantage of a special promotion from now through March 31, 2016. Viking is offering U.S. residents a 2016 Special Savings Discount with free air from 150 cities, plus up to $1,000 off per couple. Contact a travel agent or call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464). For more information visit http://www.vikingcruises.com

Imaginative, high-tech shows headline on Royal Caribbean’s new ship

By
Dana Lawson
-

March 23, 2016

Two70

Royal Caribbean has revealed its newest entertainment lineup for its first ship built for China, Ovation of the Seas.

A product of the largest entertainment production operation at sea, Ovation’s entertainment will continue Royal Caribbean’s standard of combining talent, technology, and special effects with a spectacular selection of stage shows, productions, and events.

Ovation and her sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas belong to the Quantum class of ships and are built with the most advanced technology. Entertainment and technology are fused together in Two70 — a multi-level great room which transforms into a multifunctional entertainment place in the evening. The venue enables immersive experiences to take place all around the room due to the integration of Vistarama – expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that can be set into any scene, real or imagined, by combining 18 projectors to create an ambient surface over 100 feet wide and over 20 feet tall.

In addition, a troupe of six, agile Roboscreens combined with highly trained live performers, music and special effects, gives guests front-row seats to these stunningly visual shows that can only be seen while sailing onboard Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships:

Spectra’s Cabaret – This completely original production, created by Royal Caribbean International and Moment Factory exclusively for Two70, will take the stage on Ovation. This wildly popular show, already a fan-favorite on Anthem of the Seas, features the Maestro and his “Agents of Rhythm” as they invite the audience to an electric, multi-dimensional cabaret that transports them to invisible realms. “Spectra’s Cabaret” blends live performance and experiential cinema with music from contemporary pop culture. It creates a world seen through the lens of music and technology, all while exploring the deepest recesses of the heart.

Seating 1,300 guests, the magnificent Royal Theater is home to Ovation of the Seas’ two new production shows:

The Dream – This thrilling production chronicles the story of a man who is visited by his departed soulmate in a very special dream. His long-lost love has come to help him rediscover his passion for life, and gives him the will to pursue his wildest dreams and to find love again. The unique combination of wonderful storytelling, soulful performances and spectacular production values will surprise and delight audiences.

Live. Love. Legs. – The same highly-acclaimed creative team behind the wildly popular “Sequins & Feathers” on Quantum of the Seas has brought its signature combination of talented artists, high-energy performances, and remarkable beauty, to deliver another unforgettable theatrical experience. “Live. Love. Legs” brings a collection of incredible aerial acrobatics, next-gen choreography and superb vocal performances that come straight from the Broadway stage.

With Royal Caribbean, the entertainment doesn’t end on stage. Ovation offers guests a lineup of fully produced late-night events and parties. In the ever popular Music Hall, guests are treated to the most exciting live music venue at sea, where travelers can dance till the wee hours of the morning as well as enjoy theme parties such as Groovy Town.

Two70 hosts late-night themed parties such as Twist & Shout and Fireworks Party along with the Roboshows that perfectly incorporate live performers and technology.

Ovation also will deliver entertainment experiences for its youngest guests, with events and activities featuring DreamWorks Animation’s popular film characters, including: character breakfasts in the main dining room, impromptu “meet-and-greet” experiences, photo-ops throughout the day, and exclusive DreamWorks merchandise. Additionally, guests can watch the latest DreamWorks Animation films in the ship’s movie theater or on the dedicated DreamWorks TV channel in their stateroom.

The Quantum class ships feature unprecedented first-at-sea experiences and amenities, including: the North Star, an observation capsule that gently rises more than 300 feet in the air; thrilling skydiving and surfing experiences; Two7; and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, which includes basketball, roller-skating, bumper cars, and more.

Each ship offers 18 restaurants onboard with a variety of cuisines as well as the industry’s most relaxing and luxurious accommodations at sea with the unique “Loft Suites” and “Virtual Balcony staterooms” — interior accommodations that feature large digital screens displaying real-time views, ensuring that every room has a view.

The newest addition to Quantum class will officially launch in April 2016, when she departs Southampton, England, for Tianjin, China, on a 52-day “Global Odyssey” voyage. She will begin her first homeport sailing season in China from Tianjin in June 2016. Ovation, together with Quantum of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, will make up the largest fleet of any cruise line sailing in China.

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

Cruise Cabins: What To Know Before Selecting Yours

By
Chris Owen
-

March 23, 2016

A common question from those who have not sailed before a lot has to do with cabin categories and might go like this; “What is the difference between all these categories of cabins?” Each cruise line has their own way of classifying cabins. Knowing the difference between each can help match travelers with accommodations that are appropriate for them and those they are sailing with, eliminating a bunch of problems before they start.

Image- Carnival Cruise Line

On Carnival Cruise Line, it’s a number and a letter like 4A. Princess uses two letters like BB or AC. Royal Caribbean uses a combination of both with designations like E2 or PR. Other lines use a variation of these.

The easy way to sort this out is to remember that there are really three basic cabin configurations:

Inside cabins with beds, a bathroom, places to store clothes, a tv, a phone and maybe a refrigerator or desk but no view. You can’t see out of them.

Oceanview cabins are for the most part the same as an inside cabin except that they have a porthole or window to look out of.

Balcony cabins can be the same as the inside and Oceanview except they have a balcony attached that you can walk out onto.

Suites are balcony cabins with more. That ‘more’ could be as simple as more space and that’s it. Suites can also come with more space and added amenities.

Where the difference in designation, say between 4A and 4D, comes from for the most part where the cabin is located on the ship. The prime real estate is the dead center of the ship because there is less noticeable movement there and it’s closer to everything. 4A will be in a less desirable location while 4D will be better. Important to note: there is usually little or no difference in the interior configuration of these cabins. They are all exactly the same.

Your Work In Progress Cruise Booking

One mistake made by those new to the world of cruise vacations: Considering booking the end of the search process. The potential to gain value in some way by continuing to watch cruise pricing and special offers between when the booking is made and when the ship sails is considerable.

Frequently, we have started out in a lower priced category cabin and moved up as we came closer to sailing. Two common reasons: Our closely-watched budget for any given trip may have some extra funds to play with and/or the price of a higher category cabin than we are booked in has gone down. We have gone the other way too, moving to a less expensive cabin for whatever reason.

Taking a step back though and looking beyond price/value, while cabin categories are similar in design elements, there are some noteworthy nuances exclusive to each category. Let’s take a look:

Image- Carnival Cruise Line

INSIDE CABINS

Great if you like to sleep in- very dark

Even though dark you can still see outside and what the weather is- on the cabin tv via the bridge cam

Starting prices can be misleading. All the cruise lines do this; advertize a really “cheap” deal then we go find out that it is in a cabin with bunk beds and that taxes are not included.

Tend to be mostly on the lower decks. This could be good or bad depending on your outlook. No, the higher class guests are not on the higher decks…well except on Cunard. or so they say.

Image- Carnival Cruise Line

OCEANVIEW CABINS

May be “obstructed view” meaning they really don’t have much of a view of the ocean..if you look straight out. If you look more down you can often see past the lifeboat that is in the way otherwise to the ocean below

Some may have picture windows, other portholes

Great choice if claustrophobia is an issue- stay away from inside cabins

Image- Carnival Cruise Line

BALCONY CABINS

The cruise lines add more and more of them because they are very popular

Offer a private outside refuge on a day when the pool area might be very crowded

Awesome place to watch the ship sail away and leave your real life behind

Basic balcony cabin could be about the same as the inside or oceanview. except that there is a sliding glass door that opens to a wonderful world.

The point of all this is to be informed about the differences in cabin categories, which seem to be more all the time. Where that cabin is located can make a huge difference.

Also to know: the terms “cabin” and “stateroom” are interchangeable. Stateroom just sounds better, I suppose.

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

Cover image- Flickr user Dan Moyle

Cruise Buying Tactics: Commando Style

By
Chris Owen
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March 23, 2016

Cruise vacations have always been a good value compared to travel by land. Try pricing the exact same vacation without the cruise ship. Odds are staggeringly against land travel coming out ahead, just comparing the price of hotels, meals and transportation. Forget the convenience, sailing experience and other parts of cruising that are harder to put a $ value on. Cruises are a real deal. Still, from time to time it’s a good idea to take another look at how we go about researching, planning and booking. Here we take that fresh look, stripping away all the warm and fuzzy marketing ploys cruise lines get to draw us in and go for the kill.

Use a travel agent– it was good advice before, now it’s essential. Your good travel agent will be on top of all this and have the best values, such that they are, available for you at a moment’s notice. This year, for example, there are a number of new ships entering service, potentially bringing a glut of available berths that need to be filled. That might translate to lower prices on a cruise booked right now.

Research the right way– Surfing the Internet for pricing by potential cruise travelers was an activity that used to scare the death out of travel agents. Surely they would be replaced by online internet cruise brokers with low overhead who would undercut them on pricing. But that didn’t happen. There were enough savvy travelers out there to keep travel agents in business long enough for consumers to figure it out: they can gain from using an agent and their contacts to get a better deal. Now, surfing the Internet by potential clients is a wonderful thing as those potential clients come to the travel agent with knowledge of what is available, making the whole process more efficient.

Learn the ship– Forget the price and date of a desirable sailing for a moment to consider the ship. Really look at deck plans, considering where public venues are in relationship to a stateroom category you might find attractive. Forget the long list of features and activities on the cruise line website too. Study the deck plans to see where different venues are. Print a set of deck plans and cross off features you will probably never use. Now take another look. This new way of sizing up a ship may surprise you.

Skip the new ship– Traditionally, new ships bring the highest prices, especially before they are launched, and why not. There was/is a percentage of cruise travelers to whom being on the new ship when it is first launched is really important. But that percentage is shrinking. A better thought pattern would be to go ahead and pay the deposit on that new cruise ship, forget the pricing for now then watch to see if it will go on sale later. It probably will. A good example can be found in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum and Anthem of the Seas, strictly not discounted or included in any sale for the first six months of operation. Still, a little more than half way through their first seasons, sale pricing started to apply.

Book far in advance– this has always been a good idea but is essential right now as last-minute “fill-up-the-ship” bargains dry up. There are times when waiting until the last minute to book might have been a good idea. But unless you want to sail in the next 30-60 days, forget it. The cruise lines are holding fast or raising prices because the demand has increased which will soon translate into fewer last-minute great deals. That Royal Caribbean’s Chairman has issued an edict that last minute discounts will not be offered in the future adds fuel to this fire.

Be patient- Book it and forget it is not a good idea as things change. New promotions, discounts and programs that might apply later are not available now. So keep looking and comparing values but be patient too. Today, cruise lines pricing typically begins with no discounts available, adding them later if needed, to fill up the ship. As much as we might like to believe that cruise lines offer discounts for Seniors, Military Members, Past Guests and/or Residents of certain states because they love us, the purpose is to fill up ships.

Make it a group cruise– Group cruises of yesteryear were almost always a better value. Cruise lines loved them because they made filling up ships easier. Then, about five or six years ago, cruise lines decided they did not need that group action quite so bad as the industry was beginning to mature and more travelers than ever were choosing a cruise vacation. The good group deals dried up and so with it a focus on groups as a best value. Then came the global recession, some bad luck at sea for a number of lines and that growth stalled a bit. Back are groups now, almost as good as before and a very viable way to get bonus value on top of the very best deal available when booked as an individual reservation.

Cruise Buying Tactics – Commando Style

At the end of the day, it’s up to each traveler to insure they have the best value. It’s an activity someone should do for every booking be they the savvy traveler who has the time or your travel agent who works on your behalf. Take another look at your cruise buying tactics. It should not take long to see if a little attention will pay off with a lot of value.

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

Flickr photo- ResoluteSupportMedia

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