6 Awesome Things To Love Aboard Eurodam

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February 23, 2024

20230804_195323 — During our cruise, Holland America Line's Eurodam docked in Victoria, British Columbia. (Photo by John Shallo/Cruise Addicts)

Holland America Line was established in 1873 as a passenger line taking immigrants to the New World … and now the cruise line allows cruise passengers to enjoy vacations to all corners of the globe. The line has shared the thrill of visiting Alaska for over 75 years, longer than any other cruise line. I recently returned from a cruise to Alaska aboard this incredible ship. The experience was beautiful, and I enjoyed the line for the many things that make it unique.

Things To Love Aboard Eurodam

The Eurodam was built in 2009 and is the first ship in Holland America Line’s Signature Class. She is 86,700 gross tons and has a passenger capacity of 2,104. Holland America Line strives to offer an ideal, perfectly sized ship experience. They offer a cruise experience with enriching activities and amenities focused on destination immersion and dining venues featuring exclusive dishes by world-famous chefs.

This cruise gave me an up-close look and allowed me to experience firsthand the features and amenities guests can expect when taking a cruise aboard this beautiful ship. I wanted to share six awesome things to love aboard Eurodam.

Verandah Stateroom

HAL Eurodam Verandah Stateroom walkthrough tour and review

Like any cruise, your stateroom makes a big first impression. Our verandah stateroom aboard Holland America Line’s Eurodam (VB 4144) on Deck 4 (did not disappoint. The line is known for having larger standard-sized cabins than many other lines, and this stateroom didn’t disappoint. It features plenty of USB ports below the bedside reading lamps on both sides of the bed and at the desk. The desk space was one of my favorites as it had a nice chair and dedicated space.

The stateroom also featured plenty of storage space for a weeklong cruise, a bathrobe, and comfortable blankets to enjoy during our Alaskan cruise. We used the room’s small refrigerator several times and enjoyed the flat-screen TV.

The bathroom was one of our favorites with its large tub and shower combination, and it was nicely designed and comfortable. Having such a nice-sized bathroom where everything is perfect makes a stateroom feel more luxurious. Holland America Line does so many little enjoyable things; it makes you ask, “Why doesn’t every line do this?“. The stateroom attendants also spoiled me with perfect service and any assistance I needed while onboard.

Included 24-Hour Room Service

6 Awesome Things To Love Aboard Eurodam | 23

I enjoy waking up to room service breakfast during a cruise vacation. I was delighted to find room service included aboard Holland America Line, which features a lovely breakfast menu and other options throughout the day.

If you want to indulge, you could upgrade your unique breakfast options with an extra fee, such as Lobster Benedict, USDA Prime Steak & Eggs, Breakfast Smoothie, Mimosa, and more.

While many other lines are charging or have limited the quality of room service, Holland American Line is maintaining this tradition and having it included, and that is something I have always enjoyed having available without worrying about an added cost.

Canaletto

We also visited the specialty restaurant Canaletto during our cruise and loved it. Our entire table enjoyed their meals, including freshly made pasta, cold anti-pasta, and excellent gravy.

I made a particular (side order) of spaghetti to accompany my special of the day, Chicken Parmigiana. Our foodies ordered several items, shared some family style, and loved tasting different items. It may have been our most memorable meal of the week.

World Stage

World Stage aboard Holland America Line's, Eurodam (Photo by John Shallo/Cruise Addicts)

The main theatre aboard the Eurodam is called the World Stage and is featured on other Holland America Line ships. During our cruise, I was in awe at the incredible EXC® Talk lecture series by Holland America Line. These feature captivating stories told by narrated by the Cruise & Travel Director.

A highlight was the presentation of the Origin Story, which tells the story of Holland America Line’s rich history and the brand’s evolution from a Dutch shipping/cargo line to a cruise line that sails all seven continents. This is not a presentation to be missed, and I hope you find it as touching as I did.

The two dance production shows, MOVE and Humanity by the Step One Dance Company, were incredible and unforgettable. If you enjoy artistic dance of all genres, these are must-see performances.

Dive-In Cruise Food & Restaurant

One of the stand-out food venues was not a particular “must reserve” specialty restaurant but the Dive-In Cruise Food located (Deck 9, midship) next to the pool.

I have always heard this venue was not to be missed. Once onboard, I learned it’s so good that they hand out pagers during peak times because the food here is so good and is in high demand. In the past, John Roberts recommended the Dive-In as one of the Seven Best Burgers at Sea. Now That I’ve been able to sample this firsthand, I also give it my vote. Everything I tried was perfect and better than most other cruise lines.

However, I suggest you try the Jack Knife, a “Bratwurst sausage, curry ketchup, curry powder sprinkle, crusty roll, and Dive-In Sauce™.” The menu has an excellent choice of 1/3 pound burgers and 100% All-Beef Nathan Hot Dogs and Fries.

Pinnacle Grill

If you are looking for a culinary treat featuring a menu with a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steak, then make a reservation at the Pinnacle Grill. Holland America Line calls this the “Ultimate Steakhouse at Sea,” and it didn’t disappoint during our visit.

One of the unique features of a Holland America Line cruise is the exceptional chef-created dishes you can find on its menu. For example, during our cruise, I sampled “Beef Tenderloin with Lobster Dumplings” and “Clothesline Candied Bacon,” offered Exclusively by Chef David Burk. These unique culinary offerings take the overall experience to a greater delight.

Be sure to make a reservation at the Pinnacle Grill for Dinner as early as possible, as it is very popular, and reservations can go fast. We enjoyed all the dishes, which taste as good as they look.

Why You’ll Love a Christmas Markets Cruise

By

John Roberts

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February 22, 2024

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of Europe's most popular.

It’s a great tradition to have family and friends get together for the holidays at the end of each year. This fun time is full of warm feelings and good cheer.

Do you know what could make it even better?

A cruise to see what the Christmas season is like in Europe.

Christmas Markets Cruise

A Christmas Markets river cruise on the Danube or Rhine could become a new tradition for you. Plus, the market season starts early enough that you could take one of these voyages to get in the proper holiday spirit and still be home in plenty of time to finish your last-minute shopping and get that turkey in the oven.

If you’ve never been on a Christmas Markets cruise and have always been curious, here is what you need to know.

Act Fast

These are popular itineraries, and they sell out quickly once they are announced. The Christmas Markets typically start at the end of November and run up until Christmas Eve.

Food, Festivals, and Gluhwein

The gluhwein flows freely at the markets.

This is the good stuff – and why you want to come to Europe at this time of year. Food, beverage, music and holiday traditions will be at the forefront — whether on your cruise ship or in each new city or village you visit along the journey.

This is not the time to be counting calories. At every turn, you are tempted to try all kinds of waffles, pancakes, crepes, candies, sausages, nuts and fruits. The drinks flow freely, too. I love trying the German beers and each market’s gluhwein concoctions. Gluhwein is a warm, red wine mulled with spices like cinnamon and clove. Each region (and market, really) will feature its own version, and you’ll notice almost everyone is enjoying a mug to help keep warm.

Your cruise programming will also offer most or all of these food options, and you also will get to enjoy music and dance performances both onboard and in the town squares that show off the special songs of the season.

Cultural Exploration

Sausage vendor at Nuremberg — Why You’ll Love a Christmas Markets Cruise 51

The markets are held in almost every village and city of any size throughout much of Europe. On the Danube, this means you can celebrate throughout your voyage by checking in at the markets in Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, Passau, Regensburg and Nuremberg.

On the Rhine, the destinations could be Basel, Amsterdam, Cologne, Strasbourg, Breisach, Koblenz and Heidelberg.

Each city and village offers its own brand of celebration, and some of larger ones have multiple markets. The market season simply serves as a backdrop to the normal touring and sightseeing done during your cruise, and you can visit the markets in addition to enjoying your typical cruise program.

In Vienna, for example, I wandered through the bustling market at Stephansplatz in the heart of the city’s Old Town and also ventured out to enjoy the smaller market in the courtyard of Schonbrunn Palace, the historic summer home of the Hapsburgs.

The market season creates a wonderfully warm and festive environment and gives these destinations a unique glow and feel that you don’t find when you visit in the middle of the summer. You’ll also like to the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and Christmas gifts. Look for beautiful hand-crafted wooden toys and ornaments, for example.

Who Goes There?

Roasted nuts at the Nuremberg Christmas market — Just follow your nose to find the roasted nuts at the Nuremberg market.

All the major river cruise lines offer immersive Christmas Market programs. AmaWaterways, Viking River Cruises, Avalon Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Scenic Cruises and others feature sailings that visit all the major ports along the Rhine and Danube Rivers.

Take a look at our video review from our Christmas Markets cruise with Viking:

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

Amazing Eats Aboard Viking Ocean Cruises

By

John Shallo

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February 22, 2024

Waffles with an amazing choice of toppings.

Within moments of our first steps aboard Viking Ocean Cruises, Viking Star, I began to wonder What are we going to eat?

Our room wouldn’t be ready until 1 pm, so we were directed to the World Cafe on Deck 7. I scoped out the buffet like the professional that I am. The custom Caesar salad drew me in.

Amazing Eats Aboard Viking Ocean Cruises

Would I like fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano? Yes, thank you.

Fresh croutons? Yes.

How about some sardines to top it off? Of course.

This simple Caesar salad exceeded my expectations. Such simple ingredients are done so well. This would soon be something we saw in all facets of our cruise aboard Viking Star and gave us a great first impression of Viking Ocean Cruises.

During our special four-night cruise, I learned firsthand that the food, ambiance, and other special touches were not just a coincidence or even good luck on my part, but they were purposely designed. Chairman of Viking Cruises Torstein Hagen made it clear when he said, “If we don’t do it well, we don’t do it at all.”

[pullquote]Chairman of Viking Cruises Torstein Hagen made it clear when he said, “If we don’t do it well, we don’t do it at all.”[/pullquote]

Here are some of our favorite dining experiences on board the ship and their highlights. Please share your suggestions in the comments below.

Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant

You can make reservations at this alternative dining experience before and during your Viking Ocean cruise. It is included in your cruise fare. The walls are covered with photos, and the bar near the entrance includes a meat slicer and a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano. The cheese is included with some olive oil and herbs to accompany the freshly baked breads served with your dinner. It smells wonderful here at dinnertime. The focaccia and sliced Italian bread were some of the best we’ve ever had.

Before our dinner started, we had met friends for drinks in the ship’s atrium. During our conversation, we shared we would be having dinner at Manfredi’s. They advised us we should have the ribeye steak. I was surprised to hear this suggestion for an Italian restaurant. They reaffirmed their suggestions in my rebuttal.

So when we ordered our entrees, my wife and I ordered the Bistecca Florentina which we learned is the house special. Who knew? It’s a thick-cut ribeye coated in garlic and olive oil and rubbed with porcini mushroom powder, kosher salt, brown sugar, and red chili flakes. The result is a perfectly aged and cooked ribeye with an amazing crust of flavor. It was one of the best steaks I’ve ever tasted.

The only downside was I couldn’t eat it all after trying the wonderful starters and sides. Located on Deck 1 (Aft), you can make reservations on Viking’s website. Take a look at their menus before your next cruise: Manfredi’s Dinner Menu and Manfredis Dessert Menu.

Mamsen’s – A Norwegian Deli

Some people love the heart-shaped waffles and others say you need to try the split pea soup served in the evening. We found that we loved the suksessterte or “success cake.” This creamy cake is a cool and refreshing delight. Sit back and enjoy the view with this special Norwegian treat from Karin Hagen’s grandmother, Mamsen. You will surely find a Norwegian delicacy of your own at the deli, located on Deck 7 (Fwd). Take a look at Mamsen’s Full Menu.

Incredible Room Service

I know you’re wondering why I would list room service. Well, it’s because Viking Ocean Cruises has taken cruise ship room service to the next level. Not only can you start your day with a full-service breakfast to includes a full carafe of coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice, but the menu also includes twenty-four choices ranging from a fruit plate to soups, salads, and sandwiches. Or you can order full grill items like New York strip steak, Norwegian salmon, and chicken breast.

If you’re looking for a great snack, try the drive-in classic hot dog with mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish.

We were advised that to order the apple pie served warm with extra ice cream and caramel sauce. So we had to order some. It honestly was the best slice of apple pie I’ve ever had.

The Chef’s Table

Fried Prawns with crispy garlic and chili

If you love wine and great food, then this venue is for you. The Chef’s Table is the second of two alternative restaurants aboard Viking Ocean ships. You can book these online before your cruise or once you’re on board. Like all cruises, be sure to book early for the best times. The menu changes every three days. On the evening we visited, it featured the xiang menu, which means “aromatic scents” in Chinese. This delightful five-course menu–inspired by China’s Cantonese and Huaiyang cuisine–took us on a culinary journey of flavor. Each course is paired with a wine. If you have purchased Viking’s silver spirits package, your wine is upgraded to a premium wine.

The dining experiences on the Viking Star made for an amazing experience we won’t soon forget.

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

Carnival Announces New Pier Extension for Celebration Key

By

John Shallo

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February 22, 2024

Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), today announced plans for a $100 million pier extension that will double the arrival capacity of Celebration Key™, Carnival Cruise Line’s new exclusive destination scheduled to open on Grand Bahama island in the summer of 2025. In addition to the two berths slated to be complete by 2025, the expansion will add two more berths, with all four capable of handling up to Carnival’s largest Excel class ships when complete in 2026. Overall, the expanded cruise pier will accommodate up to four Excel-class ships simultaneously and is projected to welcome nearly 4 million guests annually to Celebration Key by 2028.

New Pier Extension for Celebration Key

The pier extension plans were announced Thursday, Feb. 22 at the 25th Annual Grand Bahama Business Outlook by The Honorable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation in The Bahamas.

“As is fitting for our plans for Grand Bahama Island, our vision for Celebration Key is quite grand, and we’re already thinking about the next phase of expansion and development,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Building the second pier now allows us to implement growth plans and build itineraries with certainty, and signals to the local community just how important this development is to Carnival Cruise Line and the future of the island.”

“This is a momentous day for Grand Bahama and bodes extremely well for its future. The incredible level of new investment on the pier extension highlights the partnership between The Bahamas and Carnival Corporation and demonstrates the popularity of The Bahamas as a destination. Celebration Key will play a vital role in supporting the future prosperity of Grand Bahama and the country at large,” said Cooper.

“Carnival Corporation’s dedication to our island’s growth is both commendable and inspiring – we applaud their expanded investment in Celebration Key in Grand Bahama and welcome the imminent exponential boost to the Grand Bahama economy,” said Minister for Grand Bahama The Honourable Ginger Moxey M.P. “We are on the brink of an exciting chapter for Grand Bahama, with Carnival Corporation’s expansion opening doors to unprecedented possibilities for our residents. Let us collectively gear up for this transformative journey, as the spin-off opportunities are bound to bring about a wave of prosperity touching every corner of our beloved island.”

Celebration Key – Planned with Growth in Mind

Celebration Key, Your Key to Paradise | Carnival Cruise Line

Designed specifically for Carnival Cruise Line guests with occupancy growth in mind, the Celebration Key footprint has been carefully planned with expansive spaces and abundant attractions to comfortably host the additional guests expected in 2027. Featuring a mile-long, white sand beach, the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, and a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Celebration Key will include five distinct areas, known as portals, providing endless ways for guests to spread out, relax and enjoy their kind of fun.

With a focus on curating a distinctly Bahamian dining, shopping, and entertainment scene, Carnival Corporation is working closely with Bahamian officials and community leaders to recruit local companies, excursion operators, construction workers, and entrepreneurs for the many business and job opportunities the development will generate and sustain. The company also has hired top Bahamian talent for strategic leadership roles in human resources, operations, and community affairs, and is actively recruiting to fill several additional senior positions in the coming months.

Significant Economic Impact on the Bahamas

With the additional $100 million pier extension investment, the now $600 million flagship project remains the largest of its kind ever undertaken by Carnival Corporation. The initial phase of the project, including the original two berths, is projected to help generate over 700 permanent jobs in the community – including approximately 300 Bahamians hired directly by Carnival Corporation to help welcome 2.2 million guests each year to Grand Bahama starting in 2025.

Once the additional two berths are delivered, Celebration Key is expected to bring up to 4 million guests annually to the Grand Bahama destination by 2028. According to an economic impact study by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, over the next two decades the project will drive substantial growth in Bahamian employment, gross domestic product (GDP), and government revenue. The study estimates that the development, construction, and ongoing operation of Celebration Key will create over 2,500 direct Bahamian jobs, generate $3.2 billion in incremental revenue to the Government, and contribute $9.7 billion in incremental economic impact to the Bahamas GDP.

Carnival Corporation and Carnival Cruise Line will continue to release additional details, including specifics on exciting features and development milestones for Celebration Key over the coming months.

American Queen Voyages Ceases Operations

By

John Shallo

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February 21, 2024

The company has announced that effective immediately, all future AQV cruises have been cancelled. They stated “We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes, and guests should expect to have their cruise deposits refunded in full.”

AQV Has Become Financially Unsustainable

4 Reasons You’ll Love a Mississippi River Cruise on American Countess — American Queen Voyages Ceases Operations 74

In a Facebook post they stated “We are saddened to share that American Queen Voyages (AQV) has made the difficult decision to shut down. The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and related changes in travel preferences. Despite great efforts by our team, Crew and partners, demand has not recovered, and AQV has become financially unsustainable.

We are deeply proud of our Crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives.”

Additional information is available at www.AQVinfo.com. Refund information is available at www.AQVrefunds.com.

Riverside Luxury Cruises Announces Godmother Of Riverside Debussy

By

John Shallo

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February 21, 2024

Riverside Luxury Cruises is proud to announce Alle Pierce will inaugurate the new Riverside Debussy as Godmother. Ms. Pierce will christen the new Riverside Debussy on March 13, during the 2024 American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, where Riverside Luxury Cruises will be exhibiting and showcasing the luxurious river ship.

Godmother Of Riverside Debussy

Riverside Debussy is Riverside Luxury Cruises’ third ship to enter service and will offer travellers immersive, enriching and fun experiences in captivating cities and towns throughout the Rhine River starting March 23. For more information about Riverside Debussy and Riverside Luxury Cruises, please visit Riverside-Cruises.com/EN.

“Alle’s extensive experience and infectious enthusiasm for travel makes her the perfect Godmother for Riverside Debussy,” said Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises. “Her mission to empower women to travel and her support of travel advisors is inspiration for the industry, if not for everyone. We cannot wait to for Alle to christen Riverside Debussy and launch Riverside Luxury Cruises’ third luxury river ship.”

Ms. Pierce is an Emmy Award-winning host, producer, travel expert, and founder of Gals Abroad Getaways, where she is rewriting the rules of luxury travel. No more waiting for the ‘perfect travel partner,’ her bespoke group trips empower independent women to chase their travel dreams one passport stamp at a time. Ms. Pierce’s adventures include dazzling the screens at major international sporting events and crafting captivating digital content for top streaming platforms and brands.

Her infectious energy has been featured in The New York Times and Forbes and earned her an American Advertising Award. For more information about Alle Pierce, please visit www.AlleAbroad.com.

“Being named the Godmother of Riverside Debussy is a profound honour,” expressed Ms. Pierce. “Growing up with a mother who is a distinguished luxury travel advisor, river cruising has been an integral part of our shared travel story. It’s a mode of travel where my inherited adventurous spirit, inquisitive nature, and fervour for cultural exploration find their truest expression.

The allure of river cruising lies in its ability to seamlessly blend adventure, curiosity, and a deep passion for diverse cultures. I am confident that Riverside Debussy will offer travellers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting tapestry of Northwest Europe, a region that holds a special place in my heart.”

Get To Know Riverside Luxury Cruises

The new Riverside Luxury Cruises is Europe’s newest and most luxurious river cruise brand offering all-inclusive vacations along the Rhine, Rhône, Danube, Main, and Moselle rivers.

All guests enjoy Riverside’s signature intuitive and personalised service from every staff and crew member; butler service in every suite; premium wines and spirits; StarLink broadband Wi-Fi; gourmet cuisine; a welcome bottle of champagne; and unlimited shore excursions to delve further afield into Europe’s history, cultures and landmarks.

The brand’s all-suite Riverside Mozart, Riverside Ravel, and the soon-to-launch Riverside Debussy offers the most spacious accommodations, luxury furnishings, and onboard amenities found on Europe’s rivers. Riverside Luxury Cruises is named Forbes’ Best European River Cruise For Foodies and Cruise Critic’s 2023 Editors’ Pick Award Winner for Best Dining in the River Category.

For more information and to make a reservation, U.S. and Canadian travellers should contact their travel advisor; visit Riverside-Cruises.com/en; or call 1-833-305-3313.

Princess Cruises Takes Delivery of New Sun Princess

By

John Shallo

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February 21, 2024

Princess Cruises has taken delivery of Sun Princess, an entirely new ship platform designed by Fincantieri exclusively for the Princess brand.

The 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess is the most impressive luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created, offering an array of exciting new entertainment and activities, as well as sensational staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories. With the most balconies on any Princess ship, guests can take in the sunshine and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean from the comfort of their stateroom. The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, is the perfect place to relax and the Arena! is an evolution and the most technologically advanced Princess Theater design.

New Sun Princess Delivered

The ship does need to remain alongside in the shipyard to allow for additional technical work to ensure an outstanding vacation is delivered. Accordingly, the cruise line regrettably is cancelling the February 18 voyage. Sun Princess now will make its maiden voyage on February 28 from Rome.

Love by Britto aboard Sun Princess

Love by Britto aboard Sun Princess

Guests who were booked on the February 18 voyage will receive a full refund of the cruise fare along with any additional onboard services that were pre-purchased, as well as a 50% future cruise credit (FCC) that can be used on a future Princess voyage*.

The cruise brand is also offering financial reimbursement for select travel costs for guests who have already arrived ahead of their sailing and for guests who have not yet started their travel certain changes fees related to flights.

Princess is also protecting travel agent commissions.

*FCC must be booked by November 30, 2024 and sailed by December 31, 2025.

MSC Cruises Launches New ‘Open Booking’ Progam

By

John Shallo

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February 21, 2024

MSC Cruises launched a new “Open Booking” program Monday, allowing guests to make a future cruise reservation during their current sailing without the need to commit to a particular vessel, itinerary or sailing date.

MSC Cruises New ‘Open Booking’ Progam

The Open Booking program gives guests the option to pay a reduced deposit of $100 per person and receive a certificate allowing them up to 12 months to choose their next sailing vacation. Guests will receive up to $200 of onboard credit per cabin if they select their ship and departure date within 60 days of making the onboard open booking. Alternatively, they can book within one year and still enjoy up to $100 in onboard credit.

The open booking can also be used as a gift for family members or friends, providing the flexibility for them to choose the ship and sail date that best suits them.

“We want to offer our guests more flexibility in choosing their next ship and sailing date, and the Open Booking program gives guests onboard up to a year to make that decision while earning future credit for their next vacation at sea.” said, Koreen McNutt, SVP of Sales & Trade Engagement and Commercial Sales Officer, MSC Cruises USA.

Future Bookings Onboard

Guests who make a new future booking onboard can also enjoy an extended ‘best price guarantee’ timeframe and greater flexibility in choosing a sailing date prior to final payment, choose from the best selection of cabins and suites, and enjoy the ability to combine the open booking with most promotional offers. Members of the MSC Voyagers Club, the line’s loyalty program, can continue to earn double points and stack their booking discount with other offers in most cases.

Guests onboard MSC Cruises’ ships have access to itinerary information and best offers through dedicated Future Cruise teams. Every new future cruise booking will generate an email confirmation to the guest’s original travel agent. Travel agents who made the original cruise reservation will also benefit from the Open Booking program by receiving full commission once the ship and sail date are selected.

Full details of both the Open Booking and Future Cruise programs are available at MSC Cruises’ website and through MSC Book for travel agents.

Viking Cruise Live Q&A – New China Itineraries – February Specials

By

John Shallo

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February 18, 2024

Join us LIVE with Viking cruise expert Michael Consoli, who will share more information about Viking’s NEW China itineraries. We will also cover some February Specials.

Next, we’ll be answering your questions during our live Q&A and Member Check-In. Set your clocks and tune in on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET.

Royal Caribbean Orders New Oasis Class Ship

By

John Shallo

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February 17, 2024

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced that it has entered into an agreement with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique to order a seventh Oasis Class ship for delivery to its Royal Caribbean International fleet in 2028.

Royal Caribbean Orders New Oasis Class Ship

“While we eagerly anticipate the debut of Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas this summer, we’re already dreaming up her sister ship and the next installation in the brand’s extremely popular Oasis Class,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Across our three brands, we are focused on continuously challenging ourselves to deliver the ultimate vacation experience.”

This announcement follows Royal Caribbean Group’s recent introduction of three new ships including Silver Nova, Celebrity Ascent and Icon of the Seas.

“These are exciting times for Royal Caribbean, and we have an incredible partner in Chantiers de l’Atlantique to bring to life the lucky seventh Oasis Class vessel of what is a remarkable class of ships,” added Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

Since the 2009 introduction of the original gamechanger, Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class has delivered memorable vacations to millions of families and adventurers of all ages. The renowned ships revolutionized cruising with innovations, from the debut of the neighborhood concept to the first-ever split superstructure design and entertainment across air, ice, water and stage, and the next in the lineup will continue that legacy with the latest combination of bold revolutionary, evolutionary and signature experiences.

“This order signals Royal Caribbean Group’s continued confidence in our partnership that has delivered some of the most innovative ships at sea,” said Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique. “We look forward to building upon this relationship as we help bring this ship to life.”

This order is contingent upon financing, which is expected to be completed later this year.

For more information on Royal Caribbean Group and its brands, visit www.royalcaribbeangroup.com.

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Things To Love Aboard Eurodam

Verandah Stateroom

Included 24-Hour Room Service

Canaletto

World Stage

Dive-In Cruise Food & Restaurant

Pinnacle Grill

Christmas Markets Cruise

Act Fast

Food, Festivals, and Gluhwein

Cultural Exploration

Who Goes There?

Amazing Eats Aboard Viking Ocean Cruises

Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant

Mamsen’s – A Norwegian Deli

Incredible Room Service

The Chef’s Table

New Pier Extension for Celebration Key

Celebration Key – Planned with Growth in Mind

Significant Economic Impact on the Bahamas

AQV Has Become Financially Unsustainable

Godmother Of Riverside Debussy

Get To Know Riverside Luxury Cruises

New Sun Princess Delivered

Love by Britto aboard Sun Princess

MSC Cruises New ‘Open Booking’ Progam

Future Bookings Onboard

Royal Caribbean Orders New Oasis Class Ship