January 23, 2012
Celebrity Cruises Starts Contest
Earlier this month Celebrity Cruises announced a series of physical and virtual experiences that were designed to invite consumers to express their opinions. They are asking you, the public, how you like to express your "exit strategy" from real life to vacation life.
Maybe you want to leave the rat race to unwind on a Caribbean island with a rum punch and white sand in your toes. Maybe you want to explore the breathtaking vistas of Alaska from your private veranda on a Celebrity cruise. Whatever your vacation life entails Celebrity Cruises wants to hear about it.
Lisa Kauffman, Vice President of Marketing for Celebrity Cruises says "At Celebrity, we recognize that consumers' vacation time is precisou, and we're committed to offering a modern luxury experience that makes the most of that time. We believe no other cruise brand - and for that matter, very few land-based hotels or resorts - deliver on the concept of modern luxury; and by that, we mean the modernity of our ships' design, the anticipatory and engaging service of our crew, the spectacular quality of our food, the wide variety of dining options, and the inviting ambiance of every restaurant, bar, boutique, spa, stateroom and suite onboard. Modern luxury very succinctly and genuinely sums up the Celebrity brand."
You can express how you'd like to exit real life and enter Celebrity's modern luxury on Celebrity's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/celebritycruises by creating a complimentary e-card by March 30th, 2012. The grand prize for Celebrity Cruises "Exit to Enter" sweepstakes is a Celebrity cruise vacation for two of the winner's choice; a retail value of $10,000 US, complete with airfare for the winner and a guest.
The winner can choose from a group sailings to a vast array of destinations offered by Celebrity Cruises; Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, Europe and the Caribbean.
In addition to this consumers can save up to $300 per stateroom on vacations booking an Oceanview or above stateroom on select cruises. Book by February 5, 2012 to save.
The first 3 months of the year are the best time to book the cruise vacation you've always wanted. All the cruise lines are having early booking bonuses and sales to entice you. For more information about a cruise contact Cruising2Paradise.com at #1-800-738-8837.
Written by Denise Blackmore, MCC
January 19, 2012
An Updated Sapphire Princess
Sapphire Princess Enters Drydock
Princess Cruises' Sapphire Princess entered drydock this past week in Victoria, British Columbia. The ship has begun a dramatic overhaul that will last four weeks.
The Sapphire Princess is planned to re-enter service on February 4th, 2012 with some new features. A new Piazza atrium with International Cafe, Vine's Wine Bar and Alfredo's Pizzeria. On the top deck of the ship located at the swimming pool with be a brand new Movies Under The Stars screen. This is a popular area where guests can view new released movies on a large screen while at sea. The ship will also have a Sanctuary, adults-only relaxation area.
These new features are being added to many of Princess Cruises ships so passengers on can sail on any Princess ship and have that feeling of comfort and familar. Below are more specifics on each brand new area of Sapphire Princess.
New Piazza Atrium - The ship's atrium space will be redesigned to include this signature Princess feature -- a European-inspired social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza will feature the International Cafe for pastries, fresh panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers will also enjoy a new Vines wine bar offering a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass, plus a selection of tapas and sushi, and a wine shop where passengers can purchase their favorite bottle.
Alfredo's Pizzeria - Introduced last year aboard Grand Princess, Alfredo's will expand to its second location on Sapphire Princess. The sit-down pizzeria serves up an enticing menu of freshly prepared, hand-stretched, individual-size pizzas. Named for the line's master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria will feature an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create their custom-made pies.
Movies Under the Stars - Sapphire Princess will be the final ship to introduce Movies Under the Stars on board. The giant poolside movie screen will showcase feature films, concerts, awards shows and sports events, and passengers can enjoy their viewing on padded loungers under warm, fleece blankets. Complimentary popcorn and other treats enhance the al fresco entertainment experience.
The Sanctuary - Sapphire Princess is also the final ship to receive The Sanctuary, a tranquil retreat exclusively for adults. Added prior to drydock, the new Sanctuary space has already received an enthusiastic welcome from passengers enjoying the enhanced comforts of this peaceful oasis, as Serenity Stewards attend to their every need, offering refreshing beverages, light snacks, pre-loaded MP3 players, and the cooling mist of an Evian atomizer.
I've had the pleasure of cruising on Diamond Princess (sister ship to Sapphire Princess) and touring the Sapphire Princess multiple times while it's been in Vancouver. I really enjoy these ships and the new areas Princess is adding will make them even better.
Come back in a few weeks and I'll show you pictures of the ship after the renovation!
Written by Denise Blackmore, MCC
Sapphire Princess offers Mexican Riviera Cruises in Spring & Fall
Sapphire Princess offers Alaska Cruises in the summer
January 15, 2012
New Alaska Cruisetour Packages with Norwegian Cruise Line for 2013!
Norwegian Cruise Line Launches New Alaska Cruisetours
Guests can now book pre and post Cruisetours for an authentic Alaska experience
Miami - Jan 11, 2012 - Starting today, Norwegian Cruise Line guests can book pre- or post- Cruisetours to round out their dream Alaskan cruise vacations in 2013. Ranging in length from four to six days, guests can select the perfect Alaskan adventure from four different packages. The tours are escorted by a local Alaskan guide, giving each guest the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of Alaska. Each Cruisetour features two nights in Denali National Park, as well as a ride on the iconic Alaska Railroad.
For guests wanting to explore the wilderness or the history of Alaska, there are two five-day options available: Denali / Alyeska Explorer and Denali / Fairbanks Explorer. The Denali / Alyeska Explorer gives guests the opportunity to hike on Winner Creek Trail, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see animals in their natural setting or take a helicopter ride to land atop a glacier. The Denali / Fairbanks Explorer offers an up close look at the Gold Rush that swept the nation, the Alaskan Pipeline, a visit to an Athabascan Indian Village and the chance to experience the midnight sun.
For those with an adventurous spirit, the Authentic Alaska Cruisetour is the best option, offering diverse activities in a six-day tour. Guests can take a trip to an Iditarod Sled Dog Musher's house to learn about the "Last Great Race" and meet some of the dogs (also included in both Explorer Cruisetours). In Homer, guests can learn more about the fishing history as well as take in the scenic view of Katchermark Ba''s glaciers and mountains. The tour concludes with a visit to Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, where guests can enjoy hiking trails, local restaurants and the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
Guests who have limited time to explore the state can take advantage of the Denali Express package to explore Alaska in four days. Two days in Denali can be spent visiting the Denali National Park to view wildlife or go rafting, fly fishing, golfing and hiking before taking a ride on the world famous Alaska Railroad.
"We want to offer our guests a chance to have an authentic Alaskan experience before or after their cruise as this is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's chief executive officer. "Our new Cruisetours give guests an up close look at the culture, wildlife and natural beauty of this destination and are all guided by a knowledgeable Alaskan local."
On sale today, pre- or post-cruise land packages can be purchased as part of Norwegian Sun's 2013 cruises from Whittier, Alaska. Beginning May 20, 2013, Norwegian Sun's northbound itinerary departs Vancouver, British Columbia on Mondays, and will cruise the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier and make stops in the Alaskan favorites of Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau. On her southbound itineraries from Whittier, Alaska, the ship will cruise the Inside Passage, Sawyer Glacier and Hubbard Glacier, as well as making stops in Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau and Icy Strait Point. Further information can be found by visiting Norwegian's Alaskan's Cruisetours website. Guests wanting to book an Alaska cruise with a Cruisetour on Norwegian, should contact an Alaska Specialist at Cruising2Alaska.com, call 1-800-738-8837.
January 09, 2012
First Cruise Vacations Offered to St. Vincent
Today is the first day you can book a cruise vacation to St. Vincent! Thank Royal Caribbean for adding St. Vincent to select Caribbean cruises available today for booking.
Vision of the Seas, a 2,000 passenger cruise ship, will offer an 11 night South Caribbean cruise vacation sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida that includes St. Vincent. The schedule departure dates are December 3, 2012, December 24, 2012 and February 4, 2013.
This is the first time a cruise ship will make St. Vincent a port of call.
The full cruise itinerary is:
Day 1 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Cruising
Day 4 - St. John's, Antigua 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Day 5 - Castries, St. Lucia 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Day 6 - Bridgetown, Barbados 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Day 7 - Kingstown, St. Vincent 7:00AM to 2:00PM
Day 8 - Kralendijk, Bonaire 1:00PM to 7:00PM
Day 9 - Oranjestad, Aruba 7:00AM to 5:00PM
Day 10 - Cruising
Day 11 - Cruising
Day 12 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The Vision of the Seas isn't the newest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It has been fully redone and offers a Vitality Spa, Solarium Pool, Rock Climbing Wall, Casino Royale, eight bars and lounges, and much more.
For more information or to book a cruise click here!
Written by Denise Blackmore, MCC
January 07, 2012
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line made two announcements over the past two days. The first annoucement was regarding their newest ship build, Norwegian Breakaway.
Norwegian Breakaway is planned to sail year-round from New York City. The 4,000 passenger ship will offer the following cruise vacations:
The second annoucement is the introduction of a new Youth Program. Norwegian Cruise Line has a large number of families that cruise with them; in fact 150,000 children sailed with NCL in 2010.
Here are the changes:
Over the last 5 years Norwegian Cruise Line has made many changes; both at their head office updating their reservation system for travel agents and making improvements on their cruise ships. I'm happy to report that I have been truly impressed with their efforts and changes. The Norwegian Epic is a fabulous ship with so many great improvements, which they learned from and have incorporated on all their other ships. If you haven't taken a Norwegian cruise for a few years try it again and you too will be impressed!
Written By Denise Blackmore, MCC
January 05, 2012
Travel Tip #1
Travel Tip #1 - Pack Light
With airlines lowering baggage allowances it is more important than ever to pack light! When you depart home for a trip weigh your bag and leave 5 to 10 pounds (if possible) for souvenirs.
For trips 14 days and less I recommend packing for half of the total duration of your trip. If you have booked a 14 day vacation, pack for 7 days.
Think of taking a neutral pair of pants and/or shorts that will go with multiple tops; this works for day or night. Pack a small bottle of delicate detergent; this will allow you to wash items by hand in your bathroom sink while travelling and then hang the items to dry in your shower/bathtub. Use laundry facilities in your hotel or cruise ship to get a second use out of the clothing items you have taken.
These few tips will make your bag lighter for flying!
Written by Denise Blackmore, MCC
Denise is certified Master Cruise Counsellor working with Cruising2Alaska.com. Denise has over 16 years experience in the travel industry. She specializes in cruise vacations and focuses on the destinations of Alaska, Europe and Tahiti due to her numerous certifications and travel to these areas.
January 04, 2012
Celebrity Infinity
Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Infinity - Redone and looking fabulous!
The Celebrity Infinity cruise ship has just entered service after a massive facelift. Celebrity Cruises spent $30 million to update her!
I have sailed on the Celebrity Infinity and it's sister ships numerous times. I am quite familar with how the ship used to look and now seeing these pictures of the facelift it makes me want to cruise again!
The Conservatory at the top of the ship has been transformed into QSine - a new specialty restaurant. I had the pleasure of enjoy this restaurant on Celebrity Eclipse and highly recommend it!
The Cova Cafe just off the atrium has been transformed into Cafe al Bacio - the place for coffee, tea and more. A hot spot in the mornings and mid-afternoon!
The Internet Lounge has been completely redone and is now the Martini Bar and Crush - get your shake on! A new Celebrity iLounge with apple computers has also been added to the ship.
The Champagne Bar was given a facelift and is now the popular Bistro On Five - one of my personal favourites . . . gotta love breakfast all day!
37 Deluxe Oceanview with Veranda Staterooms on Deck 11 have been transformed into Aqua Class Staterooms. These staterooms receive Concierge Class amenities plus unlimited use of the Persian Gardens at the Aqua Spa. Relaxation taken to a new level, thanks Celebrity Cruises!
Michael's Club has been refreshed and now includes a selection of 50 different bottled beers. This is a great place to catch a sports game!
The Solarium, glass enclosed swimming pool area, has also received an update!
The Celebrity Infinity ship offers Panama Canal Cruises in the spring and fall, Alaska Cruises in the summer, and South America Cruises in the winter! Take a vacation this summer to Alaska on Celebrity Infinity.
Written by Denise Blackmore, MCC
January 02, 2012
Capture The Beauty Of Greece!
Over time I have seen many pictures of the Mediterranean and wondered 'where is that?' Chances are, after doing some research I would find that picturesque place to be in Greece.
Thanks to Greece Tourism I can share with you the top photographed spots in Greece! Take a look . . .
SANTORINI
MOUNT ATHOS
BALOS, CRETE
ACROPOLIS, ATHENS
SOUNIO, ATHENS
THE SHIPWRECK BEACH, ZAKYNTHOS
December 31, 2011
2011 A Year Past
As 2011 ends, a new year with so many possibilities begins. I must admit that the thought of starting over in January sounds good to me!
My daily job is to help people choose the right cruise ship for their vacation and make sure the booking process is easy. I enjoy helping them plan their dream trip and making it a vacation they look back at fondly.
Over the years I have received many cards, gifts and emails of thanks. It is those days that I am most happy with my job. It means all the work I've done was for good.
In 2012 I want to take more time to enjoy the little things in life. What do you want in 2012?
I wish you all a happy and healthy new year with at least one great vacation! :)
Yours Truly, Denise Blackmore
December 07, 2011
Celebrity Cruises New Ship: Celebrity Reflection
Celebrity Cruises newest ship is almost ready for bookings! Celebrity Reflection is a ship currently being built and Celebrity Cruises is annoucing bookings available for Captain's Club members today, December 7th, and for the general public December 12th.
With Celebrity Reflection, they will be introducing a whole new level of modern luxury. Say hello to the new Reflection Suite and Signature Suites - both are located in a private area accessible only to guests staying in these suites. If you are a Captain's Club member, you'll have the privilege of booking one of these suites 5 days before they're available to the general public on December 12, 2011!
The Reflection Suite includes these extraordinary features:
Signature Suites feature:
For more information or to book a cruise contact a Celebrity Five Star Agent at Cruising2Alaska.com #1-800-738-8837.
View Cruise Specials to Europe with Celebrity Cruises!
View Cruise Specials to Alaska with Celebrity Cruises!
