Opinions, Tips on Cruises by the Industry leader! Find out which cruise lines and which destinations are appropriate for you through reading the insight of the industry leaders!
Home Beginners Guide Cruise Destination Guides Cruise Ship Reviews General Tips on Cruises Hotel Reviews Press Releases

August 20, 2008

Cruise-A-Day Giveaway

expedia_cruiseshipcenters.jpg

Expedia CruiseShipCenters to Award 25 Free Cruises Aboard New Celebrity Solstice

MY CITY, NF, August 20, 2008 - To celebrate the launch of the world’s newest cruise ship, Expedia® CruiseShipCenters® is giving away 25 FREE cruises aboard the inaugural sailing of Celebrity Solstice this fall. One cruise for two will be awarded each day for 25 consecutive days, beginning September 2008. Each prize includes a spectacular cruise from Port Everglades, Florida, as well as all onboard meals, beverages, gratuities and entertainment!

Celebrity Solstice will be the first of four ships introduced from Celebrity’s Solstice Class. As the inaugural Solstice Class Ship, Celebrity Solstice will be the first to reveal Celebrity’s new vision of innovation paired with service and style. With a host of new features and a state-of-the-art design, this 2,850 occupancy ship promises to deliver an unparalleled experience. Winners will get the opportunity to experience Celebrity Solstice’s refined level of contemporary elegance, spectacular dining and entertainment, a luxurious spa, an amazing new lawn club and even a glass blowing studio. The 25 lucky winners will be among the first to sail aboard this extraordinary new ship.

“The cruise industry continues to show tremendous success, and it’s always exciting to celebrate a brand new ship launch!” says Michael Drever, President and CEO of Expedia CruiseShipCenters, Canada’s largest cruise retailer. 25 Days of Free Cruise Giveaways follows the company’s record setting One-Day-Sale which booked $13.5 million in cruises in a single day. The success of the One-Day-Sale and the phenomenal growth at Expedia CruiseShipCenters is a clear indication that cruising continues to enjoy tremendous popularity. With more new ships like Celebrity Solstice on the horizon, cruise vacations truly provide something for everyone to enjoy.

The 25 days of free cruise giveaways contest starts September 2nd, 2008, and can be found online at Expedia CruiseShipCenters Point Grey website. Anyone can enter, as long as they’re 21 years or older and possess a valid passport.

About Expedia CruiseShipCenters
Established in 1987, Expedia CruiseShipCenters is one of North America’s leading cruise vacation specialists. The company delivers outstanding customer service and value through its network of more than 106 retail locations, a team of over 1,900 professionally-trained Cruise Consultants, and a searchable online database of more than 10,000 cruise vacations. In 2006 and 2007, the company was the winner of the Canadian Franchise Association’s Award of Excellence which recognizes the top franchise system in the country. For more information, please visit www.cruiseshipcenters.ca

For more information:
Expedia CruiseShipCenters, Point Grey,
Visit Our Website
Email: point_grey@cruiseshipcenters.com
Phone: 1-800-738-8837

Posted by Denise at 09:35 AM | Comments (0)

August 17, 2008

SILVERSEA'S PRINCE ALBERT II SET TO EXPLORE

silversea.jpg

Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- August 4, 2008) Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises today revealed details of its 2009 schedule of expeditions for the Prince Albert II, calling for the ship's deployment in Papeete from mid-March to late October 2009.

An exciting collection of new itineraries will feature the less-traveled regions of Polynesia ranging from the southernmost Austral Islands to the sprawling Tuamotu Archipelago and the northernmost Marquesas Islands. For the balance of the year, the 132-guest luxury expedition ship will offer a series of Antarctic explorations with convenient roundtrip departures from Ushuaia.

The ship's positioning in Tahiti is the result of numerous efforts and successful meetings between Silversea and the French Polynesian government.

"We are delighted to base the Prince Albert II in beautiful Tahiti for a series of explorations next year," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and CEO. "The South Pacific is home to magnificent natural vistas and some of the world's most intriguing cultures, offering our guests the perfect setting for mind-enriching, authentic adventures."

"We are pleased to welcome the prestigious Prince Albert II to French Polynesia," said the President of French Polynesia, Gaston Tong Sang. "Since taking office, it has been my goal and intention to take all necessary steps to enable Silversea to visit the region. The Prince Albert II is a true luxury vessel with a privileged clientele that is attracted by cultural and authentic travel experiences."

Mr. Tong Sang added, "The itineraries and land programs designed by Silversea are in sync with our tourism positioning as well as our aims for the islands and remote archipelagoes development. The unique voyages developed by Silversea will enable travelers to discover the unknown beauties and treasures of our five archipelagoes in exceptional luxury."

french_polynesia.jpg

In the spirit of true adventure, all itineraries are unstructured by design. Following only a tentative schedule that allows for moment-by-moment flexibility, expeditions stay longer at sites of particular interest, or make slight detours whenever weather, nature or mere curiosity dictate.

Highlights of the 2009 French Polynesia program include:

AUSTRAL ISLAND ADVENTURES


Nestled in the Tropic of Capricorn, the remote Austral Islands lie hundreds of miles south of Tahiti and enjoy a slightly cooler climate. Tubuai, largest of these volcanic islands, is probably best known for the failed landing attempts of the H.M.S. Bounty. (The island's villagers assaulted the unwelcome ship with a barrage of stones, and ultimately the mutineers sailed off to Pitcairn.) Prince Albert II and her fleet of 8 Zodiac boats will explore the unique culture, flora and fauna of Rapa, Raivavae, Tubuai, Rurutu and Rimatara on five 11-day, roundtrip journeys from Papeete. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,897 per person, based on double occupancy.

JOURNEYS TO THE MARQUESAS


The mountainous islands of the Marquesas are located nearly 900 miles northeast of Tahiti and just south of the equator. With a lush, vibrant terrain bursting with myriad exotic flowers and fruit trees, it's easy to understand how this tropical paradise captivated the artist Paul Gauguin, who made the Marquesas his adopted home. On four roundtrip journeys of 14 days from Papeete, Prince Albert II's expedition team will lead in-depth explorations of Fatu Hiva, Pua Mau, Hiva Oa, Atuona, Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva and Tahuata, as well as Manihi and Fakarava Island in the Tuamotu Archipelago and the Society Islands of Bora Bora and Tahaa. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,917 per person, based on double occupancy.

TUAMOTU EXPEDITIONS


The isolated Tuamotu Islands, northeast of Tahiti, comprise the world's largest chain of atolls. Its 78 sparsely populated coral islands span over 900 miles of aquamarine waters. Dotted with quaint villages, coral churches and an abundance of wildlife -- from bottlenose dolphins and coconut crabs to the rarest of birds, this remote archipelago offers endless possibilities for real Robinson Crusoe-style adventures. Departing from Papeete, Prince Albert II will embark on five 10-day expeditions to the Tuamotu islands of Tikihau, Rangiroa, Apataki, Arutua and Fakarava, as well as Raiatea, Maupihaa and Huahine in the Society Islands. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,597 per person, based on double occupancy.

french_polynesia.jpg

The Prince Albert II offers full-scale exploring from an ultra-luxury base at sea, in true Silversea style. With the largest average size accommodations of any expedition ship, guests will enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations (many with French balconies or large private verandas), sumptuous gourmet cuisine, warm hospitality and personalized service (with a crew-to-guest ratio of nearly 1 to 1), and Silversea's generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, bottled water, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and all gratuities. Plus, complimentary Butler Service is provided in the Grand and Owner's Suites.

Detailed information and complete itineraries for Prince Albert II's 2009 expeditions are available at www.silversea.com.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, and Silver Whisper, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.S., Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index. International awards include "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2007); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Small Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2007); and "Best Luxury Cruise Operator" according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2007).

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please call #1-800-738-8837.

Posted by Denise at 11:26 AM | Comments (0)

August 15, 2008

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE PROGRAM SURPASSES $1 MILLION RAISED FOR SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE®

holland_america_line.jpg

August 12, 2008, Seattle, Wash. - Holland America Line has surpassed the million-dollar mark in contributions raised for Susan G. Komen for the Cure® via its On Deck for the Cure program, earning it a place on Komen’s prestigious Million Dollar Council. The line will celebrate the milestone this week with special receptions and recognition on the ships in its fleet and at its corporate headquarters in Seattle.

Since the program began in 2006, On Deck for the Cure has raised nearly $1.1 million in support of breast cancer research. Noting the success of the ship-based program — where ship guests make donations for walking laps around the deck — Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, said the company has recently extended their contract with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to continue the On Deck for the Cure program in the years to come.

“We’re overwhelmed with the spirit and generosity of our guests,” said Meadows. “On every cruise, our guests take time from their holiday to raise money to help fight this disease. Holland America Line is proud to be a vehicle for this most worthy cause.”

Meadows noted that in 2007 one charter group on board the ms Maasdam turned out nearly 800 participants, smashing the previous Holland America Line single walk record of 349 walkers, and the 2008 Grand World Voyage on the ms Amsterdam raised more than $50,000 in its fund-raising walks.
“We are very appreciative of the contribution goals set by Holland America Line,” said Katrina McGhee, vice president of marketing, Susan G. Komen for the Cure. “Through leveraging the support of staff and guests alike, the company has reached the million dollar mark in less than two years. This is quite unique and an accomplishment achieved by only a few companies in our Million Dollar Council.”


holland_america_line.jpg

On Deck for the Cure Details
Holland America estimates that more than 80,000 guests have participated in more than 1,000 walks on Holland America Line cruises worldwide since the program began in 2006. Participants pledged $15
or more, then simply put their sea legs to good use and walked around the ship’s deck for a total of five kilometers. Depending on the ship, guests walk up to 12 laps to reach 5K. Each participant receives an On Deck for the Cure T-shirt and On Deck for the Cure pink wristband as well as an invitation to a pink lemonade party following the walk.

Carnival Corporation & plc Embraced Program in 2007
Buoyed by the success of Holland America Line’s On Deck for the Cure program, last year, Carnival Corporation & plc extended the year-round donation program to four other Carnival brands. The combined 65 ships from Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Costa Cruises Florida-based vessels, along with Holland America Line, provide an opportunity for guests to participate in the walks and other activities.
On Deck for the Cure, presented by the Holland America Line Foundation, builds upon Holland America Line’s existing corporate giving programs which contribute millions of dollars each year in cash sponsorships, in-kind shipboard events, free and reduced-fare cruise donations for nonprofit fundraising events, United Way participation and other philanthropic activities. This summer, Holland America Line will host the Seattle Komen Affiliate’s annual Survivor Celebration luncheon for more than 400 guests onboard the ms Oosterdam. The Holland America Line Foundation donates 75%, or a minimum of $11.25, of each $15 donation to Komen for the Cure. The remaining 25% covers a portion of the program costs.

For information about sailing dates and cruise destinations, contact a travel agent by calling 1-800-738-8837.

holland_america_line.jpg

Posted by Denise at 08:53 AM | Comments (0)

August 14, 2008

Trista and Ryan Sutter to Christen Princess Cruises' Ruby Princess

princess_cruises.jpg

America's Most Romantic Couple Celebrates Fifth Wedding Anniversary Milestone by Naming Newest "Love Boat"

princess_cruises.jpg

SANTA CLARITA, CA -- August 13, 2008 -- In celebration of National Romance Week,* Princess Cruises announced today that celebrity couple Trista and Ryan Sutter will christen the newest cruise ship in the Princess fleet, Ruby Princess, on November 6 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The Sutters, who met on ABC's hit reality series, The Bachelorette, the most romantic franchise on TV since the Love Boat, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this fall, and will mark this milestone event during the Ruby Princess inaugural, which will be themed around "romantic moments and milestones."

Trista and Ryan are one of the best-known romantic duos in recent broadcast history, as they are the first and only couple from the The Bachelor and Bachelorette franchises who have actually gotten married. The Sutters also recently celebrated the first birthday of their son, Max.

"Princess Cruises has long stood for romance and reconnection, and so we're delighted to have Trista and Ryan christen Ruby Princess as they celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary," said Jan Swartz, senior vice president for Princess Cruises. "While slightly unconventional, their courtship and marriage was exciting to watch as it unfolded, and we think their fascinating love story epitomizes our inaugural theme of celebrating romantic moments and milestones."

princess_cruises.jpg

Trista and Ryan Sutter met in 2002, when she was America's first Bachelorette. The Bachelor and The Bachelorette on ABC-TV were the first and are still the most popular reality dating shows in which one man or woman searches for their soul mate out of 25 potential suitors. Over the course of the show, the bachelorette bestows roses on those bachelors she wishes to continue dating. Trista presented Ryan with her final rose and he then proposed on the show's finale in November 2002. The couple wed on December 6, 2003 in an elaborate television ceremony watched by 26 million viewers, making it one of the most widely viewed episodes in the history of reality TV and one of ABC's top rated shows of the year. After their highly visible courtship, Trista and Ryan moved to Vail, CO, where they currently reside with their son, Max. In addition to frequent TV interviews and promotional appearances, he is a firefighter and she is a stay-at-home mom and designer for her new diaper bag line, Trista Baby.

"We're incredibly honored to be invited to be the godparents of Ruby Princess," said Trista Sutter. "It's hard to believe that it's been five years since we got married. This is a wonderful way to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and also to remind people about the importance of marking not only the key milestones in a relationship, but also making time to incorporate romance into our everyday lives. We are so excited to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!"

The 3,070-passenger Ruby Princess includes a dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing array of performing street entertainers. Passengers will also enjoy Princess' other array of dining venues including the signature Sabatini's Italian trattoria and the Crown Grill steak and seafood restaurant, plus a relaxing oasis just for adults called The Sanctuary.

princess_cruises.jpg


The new cruise ship will also offer the many other innovations that define the Princess experience, including the popular Movies Under the Stars poolside movie screen, Personal Choice Dining featuring traditional or Anytime seating, multiple entertainment venues, a relaxing Asian-style Lotus Spa with fitness center, an extensive children and teen's center, a wedding chapel and nearly 900 staterooms with private balconies -- perfect for enjoying a scenic Caribbean islands cruise.

During Ruby Princess' inaugural season she will make seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale, FL to the Western Caribbean. Calls include Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. Next spring the ship will move to Europe for 12-day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent by calling 1-800-738-8837.

Posted by Denise at 03:58 PM | Comments (0)

August 11, 2008

Norwegian Gem Focus of Fine Living Network's Ultimate Cruise Guide

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg


Miami - Aug 11, 2008 - Norwegian Gem, NCL's newest Freestyle Cruising ship, takes center stage in Fine Living Network's new one-hour special: The Ultimate Cruise Guide. The special was filmed during a seven-day Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Norwegian Gem and will premiere on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 10 p.m. EST.

The show presents a complete guide to everything a viewer needs to know about cruising, featuring insider tips from Norwegian Gem's officers and a first-hand look at cruising through the eyes of the Walkers, a family of four from New York with children ages six and 10, and Joey and Joy, a young, professional couple on a romantic getaway, as they explore the ship's on-board amenities and NCL shore excursions.

"NCL's Freestyle Cruising allows guests the freedom and flexibility to cruise on their own schedule," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "During this special cruise guide on Fine Living Network, viewers will experience Freestyle Cruising and all it has to offer on our newest ship, Norwegian Gem. We hope that after watching the special, they will want to take their own cruise vacation aboard one of our 12 Freestyle Cruising ships."

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg

Viewers will vacation alongside the Walkers and Joey and Joy as they set out on their European cruise on Norwegian Gem. During the cruise, Joey and Joy use the time to unwind and relax from their busy lifestyle with a romantic brunch in the ship's French restaurant Le Bistro; a private training session with a personal trainer in the Body Waves Fitness Center; and total relaxation on the ship's pool deck with Evian mists and cold towels from poolside attendants.

The Walkers maximize their time to the fullest with a family bowling tournament in Bliss Ultra Lounge; a relaxing couple's spa treatment in the Yin & Yang Spa while the children are playing in the Treetops Kids Club; an entertaining family dinner in the Teppanyaki restaurant; and a performance by the famed Second City comedy troupe in the Stardust Theater.

While off the ship, they visit unforgettable ports of call including Barcelona, Spain; Valetta, Malta; Naples, Rome and Florence, Italy; and Nice, France. The Walkers opt to explore Rome via an educational experience for their children with NCL's Ultimate Touring, allowing them to customize their own private tour of the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, while Joey and Joy decide to take in Malta's scenic beauty on their private tour of the island's beaches.

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg

The Ultimate Cruise Guide is scheduled to air again on Fine Living Network (FLN) August 27 at 4 p.m.; August 30 at 11 p.m.; September 12 at 4 p.m.; September 14 at 11 p.m.; and September 24 at 10 p.m. From the makers of HGTV and Food Network, FLN is available nationwide on DirecTV channel 232 and DISH Network channel 113, and on local digital cable. To sample FLN programming, visit www.fineliving.com/TV.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising ("F3") ships for delivery in 2010.

NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400-passenger Norwegian Gem.

For further information on NCL Corporation call #1-800-738-8837.

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg

Posted by Denise at 08:59 AM | Comments (0)

August 08, 2008

Marriott Executive Joins NCL as Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg


Miami - Jul 24, 2008 - NCL Corporation announced today that Dennis Nau has joined the company in the role of Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations. Nau is an accomplished and highly seasoned hotel and resort executive, having worked with Marriott Hotels & Resorts since 1985.

During his tenure at Marriott, Nau held a number of very senior roles including General Manager, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa and Hotel Manager and General Manager of the New York Marriott Marquis and the New York Marriott Eastside. He has also held a number of senior regional positions overseas with operational responsibility for as many as 55 individual properties.

He most recently served as Marriott's Vice President, Global Brand Management - Full Service Brands, with responsibility for the JW Marriott, Marriott Suites and Nickelodeon Resorts brands. This role had full responsibility for the creation of all strategy and the execution of Nickelodeon Resort by Marriott and he functioned as the business leader for all three brands, with a focus on innovation and distinction.

"The quality, consistency and distinctiveness of our on board product is critical to our success," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "The appointment of Dennis Nau to our most senior Hotel position, taken together with the recent creation of the role of Chief Product Officer filled by Andy Stuart, underlines the importance we place on delivering our newly upgraded Freestyle 2.0 cruise experience consistently, to the highest standard, every day to every guest. We are pleased to have attracted a hotel veteran of Dennis' caliber; our guests and our travel partners can now look forward to enjoying what he will bring to NCL."

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising ("F3") ships for delivery in 2010.

NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

For further information on NCL call #1-800-738-8837.

norwegian_cruise_line.jpg

Posted by Denise at 12:14 PM | Comments (0)

August 07, 2008

New Crystal Cheese Sommeliers Sate Guests’ Discerning Palates

crystal_cruises.jpg

Experts guide guests through the finer nuances of cheeses and pairings

LOS ANGELES, August 4, 2008 - Crystal Cruises is the first line to feature professionally trained and certified cheese sommeliers who, rather than simply suggesting cheese selections, ascertain the finer nuances of guests' palates. In true Crystal luxury fashion, sommeliers will introduce travelers to samplings of new flavors, textures and cheese combinations that complement food and wine - adding sophistication and knowledge to guests' culinary experiences. The sommeliers will be introduced this month on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity following intensive training and certification supervised by Professor Gerhard Ebner of the International Cheese Academy of the Hotel and Tourism School in Bad Gleichenberg, Austria.

"Cheese continues to play an increasingly important role in the worldwide dining experience," says Toni Neumeister, vice president, food & beverage. "The certification of sommeliers is the kind of subtle luxury amenity that guests won't think about or truly appreciate until they've encountered it - and then they'll be quite impressed. It also demonstrates the commitment in training Crystal's culinary staff to be the best at what they do."

crystal_cruises.jpg

Benefits to guests include:

  • Sommelier suggestions on pairings with meals and wines, and insights on what blends thrive in certain regions of the world;
  • Varying selections of cheeses, depending on season and regional delicacies;
  • In all, 50 cheese vintages from 20 countries -- from the internationally renowned to more obscure artisan choices made by hand, and
  • Complimentary sommelier services, part and parcel to the overall Crystal Experience, illustrating that true luxury is illustrated in the finest details

    Certification participants included the head sommelier; assistant maître d' (senior head waiter) chef de cuisine; Prego restaurant sommelier; two head waiters; and food and beverage manager. A rigorous daily training schedule included courses covering the history of cheese; its production - including regional differences and how cows' diets impact the flavor of the cheese - slicing techniques; tastings; presentation; creating cheese menus; and cooking with cheese. Participants also visited a restaurant specializing in cheese menus and toured a regional cheese market.

    crystal_cruises.jpg

    The Crystal Difference

    As of the beginning of 2008, all Crystal wine sommeliers have been certified through the Court of Master Sommeliers. The renowned Crystal experience continues to be distinguished by classic service, abundant space, extensive choices and superior quality, providing worldwide vacations of seven to 100+ days that bridge the best of land and sea.

    For additional information and Crystal reservations please call 800-738-8837.

    Posted by Denise at 08:35 AM | Comments (0)
  • Ruby Princess Completes Successful Sea Trials

    princess_cruises.jpg

    princess_cruises.jpg


    SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 5, 2008) - Ruby Princess has completed another major milestone in preparation for her November 8 debut, with the completion of her sea trials. The new ship set out to sea from her construction dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and was put through her paces with a series of maneuvers to test her propulsion, steering and navigational equipment. After a successful four days of trials, the ship is now back in the shipyard for further exterior and interior finishing. Ruby Princess will be ready for her maiden voyage from Ft. Lauderdale, a seven-day Western Caribbean sailing taking passengers to Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Princess Cays.

    Ruby Princess is a sister ship to Emerald Princess and Crown Princess, and will feature the same dramatic piazza-style atrium that have become so popular on those ships. Other ship highlights include Princess' signature adults-only retreat called The Sanctuary, an Italian trattoria, a seafood and steak house, a "Movies Under the Stars" giant outdoor movie screen and 900 cabins with private balconies

    princess_cruises.jpg

    Posted by Denise at 08:33 AM | Comments (0)

    August 06, 2008

    Stars Shine with Celebrity Cruises: "Soap Cruise" to set Sail on Celebrity Century

    celebrity_cruises.jpg

    Miami - (July 28, 2008 ) - Cruise enthusiasts who enjoy the intrigue, drama and romance of daytime TV's most popular soap operas – and the actors who star in them – are likely to find the vacation of their dreams in "Soap Cruise," which will be held on Celebrity Century in 2009.

    Soap Cruise – the second voyage of its kind – will pair Celebrity's Star TreatmentSM with exclusive activities allowing guests who have purchased the Soap Cruise package the opportunity to directly interact with 16 of the hottest actors on all eight of daytime TV's top shows. The activities will include autograph and photo sessions, soap opera trivia games, an elite cocktail party with the stars, and other special events, including the opportunity to write a script and act it out with one of the stars.

    celebrity_cruises.jpg


    Hosting Soap Cruise will be Cameron Mathison, who plays "Ryan" on All My Children, and has appeared on Dancing with the Stars. Mathison will be joined on Celebrity Century by fellow All My Children actors Alicia Minshew ("Kendall") and Jacob Young ("J.R."); Austin Peck ("Brad") from As the World Turns; Brandon Beemer ("Owen") of The Bold and the Beautiful and formerly "Shawn" on Days of Our Lives; Winsor Harmon ("Thorne") and Lesli Kay ("Felicia") of The Bold and the Beautiful; Nadia Bjorlin ("Chloe") and Jay Johnson ("Philip") of Days of Our Lives; Bradford Anderson ("Spinelli") and Greg Vaughn ("Lucky") from General Hospital; Murray Bartlett ("Cyrus") and Ricky Paull Goldin ("Jake") of All My Children, formerly ("Gus") on Guiding Light; Kamar de los Reyes ("Antonio") on One Life to Live; and Don Diamont ("Brad") and Christian LeBlanc ("Michael") of The Young and the Restless.

    The soap stars will mix it up exclusively with guests who have booked the Soap Cruise package on Celebrity Century's January 22 itinerary departing roundtrip from Miami, with visits to Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico. A limited number of staterooms have been reserved for guests interested in experiencing Soap Cruise. For reservations and to view images and video from last year's Soap Cruise, visit Soap Cruise website or call (248) 855-7918. Bookings on Celebrity Century's January 22 itinerary through other avenues will not include access to Soap Cruise activities.

    celebrity_cruises.jpg

    Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Australia, Canada, Europe and South America. Noted for four of the top 10 "Top Cruise Ships in the World," as voted by the readers of Conde' Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers’ poll), Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit Celebrity Cruises website.

    celebrity_cruises.jpg

    Posted by Denise at 03:28 PM | Comments (0)

    July 22, 2008

    Holland America Line Showcases Alaska's Grandeur in Style with Eight Ships Sailing Three Itineraries in 2009

    holland_america_line.jpg

    Seven-day cruises depart from Seattle, Vancouver and Seward


    Seattle, July 9, 2008 - Considered a leader in Alaska tourism with more than 60 years experience in the region, Holland America Line's 2009 Alaska cruise lineup includes eight ships sailing three different itineraries with 158 total departures. The premium line's three major cruising itineraries - Glacier Bay Inside Passage, Glacier Discovery and Alaskan Explorer - showcase the highlights of Alaska gleaned from decades of experience.

    A longtime tour operator, Holland America has again been awarded the most Glacier Bay permit entries of any cruise line. On many people's "must see" list, Glacier Bay is a 65-mile long fjord with spectacular tidewater glaciers.

    "We've arranged our ships and itineraries for 2009 to ensure that everyone who sails, even if they are on board for only three days as part of a CruiseTour, will visit a tidewater glacier," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs. "Seeing a glacier calve in front of you and hearing the thunderous cracking of ice is a thrilling experience every traveler should have at least once in a lifetime."

    In addition to majestic Glacier Bay National Park, cruise itineraries visit Alaska's immense Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay, as well as the 15 glaciers of College Fjord and the twin Sawyer Glaciers in Tracy Arm.

    Through a partnership with Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska Native guides will be on board the majority of Alaska cruises on ships cruising in Glacier Bay. Alaska Native Travel Guides will bring their knowledge and personal experience of local culture, history, art and flora and fauna to guests on Alaskan cruises.

    Alaskan Explorer Cruises from Seattle
    Three ships home-ported in Seattle will sail 61 seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruises roundtrip: 1,432-guest Zaandam departs Fridays, 1,380-guest flagship ms Amsterdam departs Saturdays, 1,916-guest Westerdam departs Sundays. Cruises depart from May 8 through September 25.

    holland_america_line.jpg

    The Amsterdam highlights Hubbard Glacier, the Zaandam showcases Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm (with the twin Sawyer Glaciers), and the Westerdam cruises spectacular Glacier Bay. All Alaskan Explorer cruises call at the historic ports of Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, BC, and feature scenic cruising of the Inside Passage and Vancouver Island.

    Glacier Bay Inside Passage
    The 1,432-guest Volendam (Wednesday departures) and1,916-guest Zuiderdam (Saturday departures) sail 38 voyages from May 9 through September 19 roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia visiting Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm fjord. The seven-day itinerary includes two days of glacier viewing with a visit to twin Sawyer Glaciers at the head of the narrow 26-mile Tracy Arm fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay.

    Five more sailings of the Inside Passage itinerary - with port and glacier variations - will be offered on ms Ryndam May 8 and 15, ms Statendam September 13 and 20, and ms Veendam September 20.

    Glacier Discovery
    The 1,258-guest Ryndam (Friday departures), Statendam and Veendam (both Sunday departures) sail 54 seven-day cruises between Vancouver, B.C. and Seward (Anchorage), Alaska and reverse from May 10 to September 18. The Statendam and Veendam visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord in Prince William Sound. College Fjord has numerous dramatic tidewater glaciers named after Ivy League colleges which helped fund the Harriman expedition in 1899. The Ryndam visits Ketchikan, Haines, Juneau, Sitka and the Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay.

    holland_america_line.jpg

    The Glacier Discovery and Inside Passage cruises are often combined with a land tour to create a comprehensive CruiseTour. A diverse selection of 29 CruiseTours from 11 to 20 days may include visits to Denali National Park, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, the Arctic and the Yukon Territory. Many CruiseTours offer two-days at Denali - "Double Denali" - to maximize wildlife and Mt. McKinley viewing.

    Shore Excursions
    With more than 250 optional excursions in 2009, shore excursions in Alaska appeal to an increasingly broad range of interests and allow guests to further customize their Alaskan experience. Food lovers, adventure seekers and art enthusiasts will all find not-to-be-missed experiences. Guests can enjoy active excursions ranging from sea kayaking and fly or sport fishing to dog sledding and wildlife watching for eagles, sea otters and whales. Other exciting excursions feature such attractions as the White Pass Summit Scenic Railway from Skagway, Russian heritage in Sitka, a photography tour in Haines and a five-course tasting meal featuring Alaska seafood prepared by a local chef in Ketchikan.

    2009 Alaska Cruises & CruiseTours Brochure Is Now Available
    Cruise-only fares start at US $599, per person, double occupancy for a seven-day cruise. For a copy of the 2009 Alaska Cruises & CruiseTours brochure, contact a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

    Editor's note: Photos available here: http://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/WrAB:mYA:Q96


    - www.hollandamerica.com -

    About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)]
    Holland America Line's fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 314 ports of call in 97 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, including Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. A 14th ship, ms Eurodam, will launch in July 2008. For more information, contact a travel agent or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

    holland_america_line.jpg

    Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, totaling more than $425 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine - a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes - Explorations Café powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds.

    World's Leading Cruise Lines
    The highest-rated premium cruise line in the world, Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World's Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

    Posted by Denise at 03:11 PM | Comments (0)

    Web Design,
    Online Marketing and SEO by Agnada Consulting Inc. Vancouver