MSC CRUISES TO SET NEW STANDARDS IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AT SEA THROUGH LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIP WITH CIRQUE DU SOLEIL (PRNewsFoto/MSC Cruises USA)
MSC Cruises to set new standards in live entertainment at sea through long-term partnership with Cirque Du Soleil.(PRNewsFoto/MSC Cruises USA)
MSC Cruises has announced a long-term partnership with Cirque du Soleil — the Quebec-based world leader in artistic entertainment — that will set new standards in live entertainment at sea. In a first at sea, brand new Cirque du Soleil shows will be created exclusively for MSC Cruises guests aboard the cruise line’s next-generation Meraviglia ships in a multi-million dollar, ground-breaking entertainment and dining venue, designed in collaboration by MSC Cruises and Cirque du Soleil.
Exquisite dining and award-winning entertainment are two key distinguishing elements of the MSC Cruises experience. To elevate these two elements to the next level, MSC Cruises and Cirque du Soleil together imagined and are building a completely custom-made, latest-technology dining and entertainment venue — the first of its kind at sea — for MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia ships. This is where MSC Cruises guests will be able to enjoy brand new, exclusive Cirque du Soleil shows, six nights a week, two performances per night — all while enjoying an extraordinary MSC Cruises culinary experience.
The specifically-designed venue represents an industry-first $21 million investment, in which the custom-built entertainment and dining Aft lounge is equipped with the latest technology and best-suited to the needs of both Cirque du Soleil artists and guests. The 10,760 sq ft, 450-seat Aft lounge will feature a 200-seat dining area so that guests can enjoy an exquisite dinner or drinks before the performance. Cirque du Soleil’s world-class artists will deliver two shows created exclusively for MSC Cruises that will capture the imagination of all guests. Shows and related dining options will be available only to MSC Cruises guests aboard the four next-generation Meraviglia project ships, the first of which — MSC Meraviglia — is set to sail its inaugural season in the Mediterranean from June 2017.
““MSC Cruises is a company built on innovation, from the unique, prototype ships we design and build to the on-board experiences we conceive and create,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises.
Together with our newest world-class partner, Cirque du Soleil, we imagined and are now designing a totally new, live entertainment experience exclusively for our guests; an original show in a multimillion-dollar custom-built venue aboard a ship we designed ourselves, down to the last detail. It’s this commitment to innovation, and the vision and creativity that only a family-owned company can apply, that make MSC Cruises so distinct.”
“We have found in MSC a long term partner with a clear vision about trends in the cruising industry and a strong desire to be the leader by bringing entertainment on board to a whole new level,” said Yasmine Khalil, President 45 DEGREES, Cirque du Soleil’s Special Projects Company. “For Cirque du Soleil, this is what inspires us and provides us with a great creative challenge that we require for each new relationship and project that we embark on.”
This ground-breaking new offering will first be available aboard MSC Meraviglia, the most innovative cruise ship ever built by a global European-based cruise line. The cutting-edge 4,500-guest (based on double occupancy), 167,600-GRT ship — due to be delivered in May 2017 — will spend her first summer sailing the western Mediterranean, and will be the first to have three major ports of embarkation: Genoa, Marseille and Barcelona. Cruises for MSC Meraviglia’s inaugural season are already on sale and can be accessed here or via preferred travel agents around the world.
Watch the MSC Cruises and Cirque Du Soleil Video Below:
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates one of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, and the 88-guest m/v Tere Moana, was recognized by Porthole Cruise Magazine as having the “Best South Pacific Itineraries” in the 17th Annual . 2015 marks the sixth consecutive year that Paul Gauguin Cruises has received this accolade.
The magazine’s annual awards poll asked readers to evaluate the world’s cruise lines and determine the industry’s leaders. The full list of winners can be found on the magazine’s website, www.porthole.com, and is featured in the November/December 2015 issue of Porthole Cruise Magazine on newsstands November 10, 2015.
“We are honored to receive this award,” said Diane Moore, President of Paul Gauguin Cruises. “Thank you to the readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine. We look forward to continuing to share our expertise and authentic experiences in Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific with our guests.
“It comes as no surprise that our readers have once again awarded Paul Gauguin Cruises with ‘Best South Pacific Itineraries,'” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of Porthole Cruise Magazine. “The name ‘Paul Gauguin’ is practically synonymous with the region, and those who have sailed on the ship recognize the meaningfulness of the experience.”
The Gauguin’s itineraries in French Polynesia and the South Pacific feature a host of exquisite islands with white-sand beaches, aqua lagoons, mist-laden mountains, and warm Polynesian culture. Itineraries in 2016 include: 7-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. New for 2016 is a Tahiti, the Society Islands & Tuamotus voyage that features a visit to two Polynesian archipelagos in just one week on a unique itinerary. Paul Gauguin Cruises will also be offering a special 11-night Society Islands & Tuamotus voyage which includes two days at the line’s private island paradise of Motu Mahana.
Paul Gauguin Cruises offers extraordinary value with savings of 50% off standard all-inclusive cruise fares on all 2016 voyages, plus included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles on itineraries on The Gauguin.
For rates or more information on Paul Gauguin Cruises, please contact a Travel Professional, call 800-848-6172, or visit www.pgcruises.com.
Frank Del Rio, CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and Pitbull celebrate with onstage “fist bump” at the Norwegian Escape christening ceremony.
Norwegian’s largest ship and the first in its Breakaway Plus Class – was christened today in a stunning ceremony worthy of her size and status.
International music sensation Pitbull, who also served as GODFATHER for Norwegian Escape, thrilled fans and VIPs alike at the PortMiami pier side concert. The ship’s breathtaking hull artwork, created by Guy Harvey, who made a special guest appeara nce, served as the backdrop for the epic event.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings chief executive officer Frank Del Rio kicked off the festivities, where guests experienced an afternoon packed with fun and excitement in celebration of Norwegian Escape. Following a surprise opening act which featured acrobatic Parkour performers defying gravity (with the help of hidden trampolines built into the stage), national radio personality Froggy from the “Elvis Duran Morning Show” took the reins as event emcee, engaging the audience and introducing performers and special VIP guests, including Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez who discussed the positive impact Norwegian Escape will have on the local community, its residents and the economy.
Attendees were treated to a special sneak peak at the stellar entertainment Norwegian Escape has to offer as the casts of Tony Award-winning Broadway shows “After Midnight” and “Million Dollar Quartet” performed a selection of songs from each respective show, before Pitbull brought down the house with his hottest hits, including “Don’t Stop the Party”, “Fireball” and “Give Me Everything”.
DJ-led sing-alongs and a slideshow of themed guest photos snapped by roving photographers created a truly interactive event, where audience members quite literally became part of the show as photos of individual attendees holding signs customized with the place they’d choose to “Escape” were projected onto the jumbo screen on the main stage.
“Not only does she offer high caliber entertainment, quality dining and luxurious accommodations that significantly raise the bar for our fleet and puts her in a class of her own, but she exemplifies our renewed commitment to offering unparalleled freedom and flexibility to our guests.”
Norwegian Escape
Norwegian Escape, the largest in Norwegian’s fleet of 14 vessels, features an elevated design that makes for a decidedly upscale experience.
Norwegian Escape’s Haven is the largest in the fleet and the most luxurious. At the heart of the private enclave on the top of the ship lies a three-story covered courtyard. An expanded forward sundeck with a cantilevered whirlpool, along with a new outdoor dining space in the Haven’s private restaurant make Norwegian Escape’s Haven the ultimate small ship experience, while still providing the freedom to enjoy large ship dining, entertainment and amenities.
Continuing with Norwegian’s commitment to excellence in entertainment, Norwegian Escape features two truly spectacular Tony Award-winning Broadway musicals that headline the Escape Theater: After Midnight, the smash-hit musical that combines the big-band songs of Duke Ellington and the best dancing from Broadway; and Million Dollar Quartet, the smash-hit musical inspired by the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. In a new concept exclusive to Norwegian Escape, the Supper Club has been re-imagined for an unforgettable dinner and show. For The Record: The Brat Pack™ is a critically acclaimed Hollywood night that celebrates classic soundtracks of motion picture masters in a one-of-a kind 360° post-modern cabaret.
Nightlife onboard includes outposts of several popular land-based outlets, including the first-ever Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville restaurant and 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar at sea, a music venue and outdoor bar on The Waterfront that features live nightly performances. The District Brew House, a hip, urban craft beer hall featuring an exclusive partnership with Miami’s own Wynwood Brewing Company, will serve up more than 24 draft beers while The Cellars, A Michael Mondavi Family Wine Bar, features an array of immersive wine experiences, focusing on tasting, education, and the enjoyment of wine. Norwegian Escape will also feature Miami’s oldest and most legendary bar, Tobacco Road.
Norwegian Escape’s recreation spaces are unrivaled, with the largest ropes course at sea leading a wide array of activities. This three-story multiplex of heart-pounding challenges complete with two planks and five Sky Rails, zip tracks that allow guests to soar through the air. On the top of the ship, guests will find a redesigned pool deck area that features an open area for sunbathing, a double-deck bar and two new large format LED screens. Norwegian Escape’s Aqua Park is the largest at sea and includes a new tandem Aqua Racer slide, complete with a clear acrylic section to further enhance the thrill of this adventure ride. Adding to the family fun, Norwegian Escape features an expanded Kids’ Aqua Park with an enclosed slide, rope climb fun zone and spray cannons for kids to splash and play in their own designated space. Along with an expanded Splash Academy youth center that includes dedicated play spaces for specific age groups, Norwegian Escape also offers the line’s first nursery for cruisers two and under.
In addition to family oceanview staterooms that accommodate up to five guests, Norwegian Escape’s accommodations include Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more.
Learn more about Norwegian Escape’s luxurious accommodations, as well as its distinctive dining, entertainment, shopping and leisure options, by visiting http://www.escape.ncl.com/. To book a cruise on Norwegian Escape, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE(625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.
Watch as Royal Caribbean welcomes Anthem of the Seas to her new homeport in Cape Liberty, NJ. Now anchored in America, Anthem of the Seas will provide New Yorkers with a new way to come seek adventure. This new class of ship look’s amazing and now Cruise Addicts can easily embark one of the most modern and exciting cruise ships in the world today. #RoyalCaribbean #AnthemoftheSeas
Stayed two nites but wanted to move in!!! Loved my choice and as everybody knows it wasnt an easy one to make in NYC. Great staff, especially Gabriella at the front desk. Loved the sushi at Koi, adored the spacious bathroom, comfy bed, breathtaking views and great vibe. Would highly recommend and I will return no doubt about that.
Single Supplement Waived Entirely on All Category 1 Riverboat Cabins, and
Reduced up to $1,000 on 170 Departures of 60 Itineraries to Four Continents
Tauck has announced its 2016 solo traveler savings, and the company has again eliminated the single supplement on its Category 1 European riverboat cabins. The waived single supplement applies to every Category 1 cabin on every Tauck riverboat, on every departure of every Tauck river cruise itinerary. In all, the single supplement is thus being waived on over 220 Tauck river cruise departures for the coming year. In addition, Tauck is reducing the single supplement by up to $1,000 on 170 departures of 60 itineraries to four continents.
“The cost savings we’re extending to solo travelers are obviously considerable, but they’re only one reason why our land tours and cruises are perfect for those traveling without a companion,” said Tauck CEO Dan Mahar.
“At Tauck we handle all of the advance planning prior to the trip’s start, and all of the details once the trip is underway, so there’s no burden or hassle for the traveler. And of course, solo travelers love the camaraderie and sense of assurance they get from being part of a Tauck group. Traveling with Tauck is already a great choice for solo travelers, and with the savings we’re offering, it’s an even easier decision.”
Besides waiving the single supplement for the Category 1 cabins on its European riverboats, Tauck is also taking $1,000 off the price for solo travelers booking Category 4 and 5 cabins on 48 departures of 15 different river cruises. Elsewhere in Europe, Tauck has also reduced the single supplement by up to $400 on 45 departures of 17 different land tours. The company has been equally thorough in North America, taking up to $300 off the single supplement on 53 departures of 19 itineraries. And within its “Exotics” portfolio, Tauck has trimmed the single supplement by $300 to $600 on 24 departures of 9 trips in Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Those interested in more information can contact their local travel professional, call Tauck at 800 468 2825, or visit the company’s website at www.tauck.com.
Norwegian’s newest and largest ship sets sail for European Inaugural Events before Transatlantic cruise to homeport of Miami
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. CEO Frank Del Rio (left) accepts delivery of Norwegian Escape from MEYER WERFT Managing Partner Bernard Meyer (right)
“We are thrilled to deliver the first in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus class,” said Bernard Meyer, managing partner with MEYER WERFT. “Norwegian Escape is the newest and most advanced cruise vessel on the seas and we are proud of the team that worked diligently to design and build her.”
Norwegian Escape’s Haven is the largest in the fleet and the most luxurious. At the heart of the private enclave on the top of the ship lies a three-story covered courtyard. An expanded forward sundeck with a cantilevered whirlpool, along with a new outdoor dining space in the Haven’s private restaurant make Norwegian Escape’s Haven the ultimate small ship experience, while still providing the freedom to enjoy large ship dining, entertainment and amenities.
Continuing with Norwegian’s commitment to excellence in entertainment, Norwegian Escape features two truly spectacular Tony Award-winning Broadway musicals that headline the Escape Theater: After Midnight, the smash-hit musical that combines the big-band songs of Duke Ellington and the best dancing from Broadway; and Million Dollar Quartet, the smash-hit musical inspired by the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. In a new concept exclusive to Norwegian Escape, the Supper Club has been re-imagined for an unforgettable dinner and show. For The Record: The Brat Pack™ is a critically acclaimed Hollywood night that celebrates classic soundtracks of motion picture masters in a one-of-a kind 360° post-modern cabaret.
Nightlife onboard includes outposts of several popular land-based outlets, including the first-ever Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville restaurant and 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar at sea, a music venue and outdoor bar on The Waterfront that features live nightly performances. The District Brew House, a hip, urban craft beer hall featuring an exclusive partnership with Miami’s own Wynwood Brewing Company, will serve up more than 24 draft beers while The Cellars, A Michael Mondavi Family Wine Bar, features an array of immersive wine experiences, focusing on tasting, education, and the enjoyment of wine. Norwegian Escape will also feature Miami’s oldest and most legendary bar, Tobacco Road.
Norwegian Escape’s recreation spaces are unrivaled, with the largest ropes course at sea leading a wide array of activities. This three-story multiplex of heart-pounding challenges complete with two planks and five Sky Rails, zip tracks that allow guests to soar through the air. On the top of the ship, guests will find a redesigned pool deck area that features an open area for sunbathing, a double-deck bar and two new large format LED screens. Norwegian Escape’s Aqua Park is the largest at sea and includes a new tandem Aqua Racer slide, complete with a clear acrylic section to further enhance the thrill of this adventure ride. Adding to the family fun, Norwegian Escape features an expanded Kids’ Aqua Park with an enclosed slide, rope climb fun zone and spray cannons for kids to splash and play in their own designated space. Along with an expanded Splash Academy youth center that includes dedicated play spaces for specific age groups, Norwegian Escape also offers the line’s first nursery for cruisers two and under.
In addition to family oceanview staterooms that accommodate up to five guests, Norwegian Escape’s accommodations include Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more.
Learn more about Norwegian Escape’s luxurious accommodations, as well as its distinctive dining, entertainment, shopping and leisure options, by visiting http://www.escape.ncl.com/. To book a cruise on Norwegian Escape, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE(625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.
Aquatheater - Boardwalk Deck 6 Aft
Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” in the Travel Weekly China and Travel Weekly Asia first annual “Readers Choice Awards.” This marks a global clean-sweep for Royal Caribbean, which now holds the top spot awarded by the three titles of the industry’s most widely-read publication: Travel Weekly, Travel Weekly China and Travel Weekly Asia. For 12 consecutive years, Royal Caribbean has been recognized as the “Best Cruise Line Overall” by travel experts.
“It is a significant accomplishment to receive this accolade by our industry partners and peers in China and throughout Asia, extending our winning streak across the world,” said Michael Bayley, president & CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “I congratulate my colleagues shore-side and across the fleet for this unprecedented recognition, and thank our travel partners for their unwavering support.”
Travel Weekly Asia and Travel Weekly China, leading travel trade magazines in their respective markets, announced the winners yesterday in a ceremony in Singapore. The Reader’s Choice Awards pay tribute to the best in the industry, recognizing travel companies and individuals for their outstanding achievements. The winners are determined by travel professionals who are invited to vote for the best company, brand or destination in 31 categories representing the different segments of the travel industry. The segments include: airlines, cruise, resort, hotel, tour operator, destination, travel technology, attractions, airport, and car rental.
Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 46-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike. Onboard, guests are catered to with the cruise line’s world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service by every staff and crew member. Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 12 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.
The cruise line sails 23 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in Bermuda and the Caribbean, Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, South America, Asia, and Australia and New Zealand. Media can stay up-to-date by following @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter, and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers should call their travel agent; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
Guests can join leaders in the world of fashion or embark on a culinary tour of British cuisine
Dame Zandra Rhodes CBE. Photo Credit: Gene Nocon
Cunard has announced two exciting event cruises for 2016, celebrating the worlds of fashion, food, music and dance. From the launch of its very first ‘Transatlantic Fashion Week’ to a culinary tour of the British Isles to the largest Big Band Balls at sea, guests on each cruise will be immersed in the very best of these themes.
The inaugural ‘Transatlantic Fashion Week’ voyage arrives in one of the style capitals of the world, New York, the very same day New York Fashion Week 2016 begins, after an extra special 7 night (1-8 September) voyage across the Atlantic on board the most famous ocean liner in the world.
The voyage will be hosted by a number of very significant names from the industry, as guests will be treated to ‘an audience with’ pioneering British designer, Dame Zandra Rhodes CBE, Colin McDowell, the highly respected fashion historian and commentator Fern Mallis, the ‘Godmother of Fashion’ and founder of New York Fashion Week.
Colin McDowell. Photo Credit: Nick Knight
Dame Zandra Rhodes, who has dressed some the world’s most iconic stars and musicians, including Freddie Mercury and Jackie Onassis, said: “I’m extremely excited to be joining Cunard on board Queen Mary 2 for the very first Transatlantic Fashion Week, 2016. For me, it offers the opportunity to share my knowledge and wonderful experiences from throughout my career in fashion, and give guests a taste of what my collection has to offer.”
Dame Zandra Rhodes will also reveal designs from her collections, as emerging faces from Storm modelling agency take to the catwalk during the voyage. Alongside these great fashion authorities, guests will have the opportunity to meet the designers of the future, as students from one of the world’s number one postgraduate fashion programmes, The Royal College of Art, showcase their latest collections on board.
Food lovers can treat themselves to a British Isles Culinary Discovery on board Queen Elizabeth in June next year. The cruise will feature highly reputable names and producers from the world of gastronomy, including Charles Sichel of Maison Sichel and Jilly Goolden, English Wine Critic and UK Television personality. Guests will be able to enjoy regional delicacies from around the British Isles through a range of tailored shore-side excursions, hosted on board events and specially curated menus.
Fern Mallis
Each of the three Cunard Queens will host their very own Big Band Balls in November 2016 for dance and music lovers around the world to enjoy. Cunard’s biggest orchestras of the year will delight guests with music from Glenn Miller, Count Basie and Duke Ellington. The big band phenomena originated in the US in the 1920s era, and soon took the world by storm by creating the party of all parties. Next year each of the three Queens will look forward to playing host to their own exclusive musical spectaculars.
“These special event voyages will heighten the Cunard ocean travel experience in a uniquely vibrant and memorable way, immersing our guests into the worlds of fashion, high style, the best of British culture, world class cuisine, and the Big Band music and dance experience – all hallmarks of Cunard’s storied legacy,” said Richard meadows, president, Cunard North America.
American Cruise Lines has announced that it has begun construction on a new coastal cruise ship, yet to be named. The news of this addition is the most recent in a series of announcements pertaining to American Cruise Lines’ continued expansion of their all-American made fleet. The ship is scheduled to begin cruising in spring of 2017.
With a capacity of 170 guests, this new, slightly larger ship will maintain the exclusive signature design and intimacy of the line’s current, highly-popular coastal cruise ships, designed to deliver a superior cruising experience. The new ship will be fully stabilized with Rolls-Royce stabilizers providing the most comfortable and smoothest coastal cruising journey imaginable. Designed with the most advanced innovation in mind, this modern coastal cruise ship will include the latest state-of-the-art technology, the newest and most modern environmental systems, and is designed to exceed the most stringent safety standards.
The new coastal cruise ship will feature the largest, most deluxe staterooms ever seen in this service. The well-appointed, thoughtfully designed staterooms span over 350 square feet of personal luxury. Guests will comfortably enjoy butler-delivered room service on their tastefully furnished private balconies which offer perfectly unobstructed views of once-in-a-lifetime sights.
American Cruise Lines, known for delivering award winning personalized service, will offer the highest standard of cruising comfort with an all-American staff, professionally trained to provide thoughtful and inconspicuous attention to all guests. The new ship will feature locally sourced ingredients in traditional American and regionally inspired cuisine created by world renowned chefs and served by classically trained dining room staff. Guests on board the new ship will experience genuine hospitality at its finest with American Cruise Lines’ unrivaled level of service.
Refined furnishings and modern conveniences including an exercise spa, elevators to all decks, and ship-wide internet access will assist in creating a comfortable country club atmosphere. This modern luxury coastal cruise ship will boast finely appointed dining and lounge parlors, embellished with rich design elements which are interwoven throughout the ship. A resounding selection of all-inclusive onboard amenities will add to the comfort of the ship making guests feel right at home throughout their journey.
Built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD, the new ship is scheduled for completion in January of 2017.
