Freestyle Cruising ship to undergo total refurbishment

Miami - Nov 4, 2008 - Norwegian Cruise Line today announced that Norwegian Spirit is undergoing a multi-million dollar refurbishment focused on enhancing the total guest experience. The 2,376 passenger Freestyle Cruising ship is receiving a total renovation to its public areas, staterooms and suites. These refurbishments are in addition to the enhancements already made as part of Freestyle 2.0, the company's fleet-wide initiative to further improve the guest experience across all guest touch points from food and beverage to staterooms.

"Norwegian Spirit's multi-million dollar renovation will enrich the overall guest experience by making significant enhancements to the ship overall," said Andy Stuart, NCL's executive vice president and chief product officer. "With the combination of our recent Freestyle 2.0 enhancements and all of the refurbishments being made, Norwegian Spirit will emerge refreshed and revitalized for her winter season sailing seven-day Exotic Western Caribbean cruises from New Orleans."

Norwegian Spirit's total refurbishment includes:

11 new staterooms are being added, eight of which are balconies;
one diesel engine is being replaced;
the Stardust Theater, with a capacity of approximately 700, is receiving all new seating and chairs;
seating throughout the ship is being reupholstered;
more than 21,000 sq meters of carpet is being replaced in public areas, stairwells, suites and staterooms;
new wallpaper is being installed in suites, corridors and public areas;
new curtains are being added to all suites;
tile in 300 bathrooms throughout the ship is being replaced;
all open decks including the main pool, kid's pool and four hot tubs are undergoing refurbishment;
the Roman Spa & Fitness Center is being upgraded with new doors, panels and seats;
more than 60 windows are being replaced;
the onboard phone system is being upgraded to a state of the art wireless system.

Following the completion of the refurbishment, Norwegian Spirit will re-enter service on November 23, 2008 and begin a series of 21 seven-day Exotic Western Caribbean cruises from New Orleans, her homeport for the winter season, with calls in Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Santo Tomas De Castilla, Guatemala; and Belize City, Belize.

Norwegian Spirit offers Freestyle Cruising with the flexibility of 11 restaurants, seven bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two pools, extensive children's facilities, a sports deck, casino, spa, and a variety of spacious public rooms. The ship joined the NCL fleet in 2004 and underwent a previous dry dock in 2005.

For more information or to book a sailing on Norwegian Spirit, call your travel professional, go to www.ncl.com or contact NCL at 866-234-0292.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is the innovator in cruise travel with a 42-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility.

Today, NCL has the youngest fleet in the industry with 12 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea.

NCL is presently building a new third generation Freestyle Cruising project known as F3, for delivery in 2010.

High resolution, downloadable images are available at www.ncl.com/pressroom. For further information on NCL call #1-800-738-8837.

Romance-Filled Events Celebrate Ship's Debut

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (November 4, 2008) -- A spray of ruby-colored water from two escorting fireboats welcomed Ruby Princess, the newest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, into Fort Lauderdale today. The ship arrived to begin several days of launch festivities with a distinctly romantic theme, the highlight of which will be its November 6 naming by America's reigning reality couple, Trista and Ryan Sutter of The Bachelorette in honor of their fifth wedding anniversary. In an industry first, a couple will also be married during the naming ceremony, with Love Boat captain Gavin MacLeod giving away the bride, and Trista and Ryan serving as wedding attendants.

The romantic events continue as Princess hosts a "Ruby Red Tie" gala to celebrate the naming of its new ship, followed by a two-night preview cruise for hundreds of VIP guests. During the sailing, the ship will host an array of "ruby" and romance-themed activities, including a massive renewal of vows for all couples on November 7. Ruby Princess returns to Port Everglades on November 8 for its inaugural seven-day sailing to the Western Caribbean.

The Ruby Princess naming ceremony and wedding will be available for viewing on line at www.princess.com beginning November 7.

The 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess includes a dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing line-up of street performers. Passengers will also enjoy Princess' other array of dining venues including the signature Sabatini's Italian restaurant and the Crown Grill steak house, plus a relaxing oasis just for adults called The Sanctuary. The new 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, and a wedding chapel. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent by calling #1-800-738-8837.

Miami - (October 31, 2008 ) - South Florida residents and visitors interested in seeing the cruise industry's most eagerly awaited ship of the year will have their chance Monday, November 3, when Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Solstice sails into Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The ship is expected to arrive at the Port Everglades sea buoy at approximately 6 a.m., and will be dockside by approximately 7 a.m. Ideal viewing platforms include Fort Lauderdale Beach and surroundings, while residents with waterfront condominiums can enjoy a bird's-eye view.

Celebrity Solstice upon arrival will be fully "dressed" with vibrant flags flying above its industry-first half-acre Lawn Club, Hot Glass Show, and one of the highest percentages of verandas in the business, not to mention the wealth of attributes found inside the sleek, 122,000-ton ship.

Soon after its arrival, Celebrity Solstice will serve as the perfect platform for Celebrity Cruises' first Global Sales Meeting, followed by a series of exclusive, two-night preview cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries.

Celebrity Solstice will be named in formal ceremonies on November 14, and will embark on its inaugural season November 23, on a series of seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. In spring 2009, the stunning new ship will introduce a series of romantic 10- and 11-night Mediterranean sailings roundtrip from Rome.

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" in the large-ship category, as voted by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers' poll), Celebrity's fleet - including the new Celebrity Solstice - will be joined by Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011, and a fifth in 2012. For more information, call your travel agent at #1-800-738-8837.

Royal Caribbean International Partners with American Express Travel to Introduce Youth Zone

Miami - October 22, 2008 - The final neighborhood to be added into the deck plans of Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas was announced last night during an online unveiling sponsored by American Express Travel. The Youth Zone, a haven for children and teens, joins the ranks of six other previously-announced, diverse neighborhoods that will be aboard the world's largest and most revolutionary cruise ship due to launch in November 2009. Oasis of the Seas features a unique concept that will provide guests with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal style, preference or mood in seven neighborhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk with the AquaTheater, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place, and the Youth Zone.

"We thank American Express Travel, for partnering with us to unveil the last neighborhood of Oasis of the Seas," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Oasis of the Seas will offer more of everything for every member of the family, including more for our younger guests. The Youth Zone aboard Oasis of the Seas will continue to build on our award-winning Adventure Ocean youth and teen programs, and expand to include dedicated space and programming for our guests as young as six months."

The latest neighborhood unveiling introduced a wealth of kid- and teen-friendly adventures that lie within the Youth Zone - covering a total expansive area of more than 28,700 sq. ft. (2,669 sq. meters) -including, Kids Avenue, a central boulevard connecting children with dedicated Adventure Ocean spaces and various themed play areas; the cruise line's first nursery for infants and toddlers (six months or older); and state-of-the-art teen areas. A video preview of these areas, including interviews with Royal Caribbean executives, is now available online at www.OasisoftheSeas.com.

"American Express Travel is thrilled with the opportunity to help reveal Royal Caribbean's final neighborhood aboard Oasis of the Seas," said Lynne Biggar, senior vice president and general manager, American Express Travel. "As a huge proponent of family travel, we are especially delighted to be a partner in the unveiling of the Youth Zone. In recent years, we've seen family travel increase and evolve, particularly in the area of multi-generational travel. This has prompted us to provide dedicated family travel specialists, as well as offer family vacation options that come with great value and memorable experiences for all. As such, Oasis of the Seas is a welcomed and wonderful addition to our cruise offerings."

The Adventure Ocean youth program aboard Oasis of the Seas will feature the cruise line's awardwinning curriculum currently offered to young guests fleetwide, but with an exciting new and enhanced approach, including impressive spaces created and equipped specifically for designated activities allowing for a more robust program. All Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean and teen programs are led by exceptional, energetic and college-educated counselors, whose goal is to create memorable experiences for the cruise line's younger guests.

Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated advancements is the addition of the Royal Babies and Tots nursery, a first for Royal Caribbean. This colorful space will serve as a fully-staffed nursery where children can be left in the care of Royal Caribbean's trained professionals, as well as host various playgroups created by Fisher-Price and Crayola for babies and tots.

Open daily, the nursery will offer parents childcare drop-off options in the daytime and evening, carefully maintaining an optimum staff to child ratio. Free-time play also will be offered daily, creating an interactive environment where parents and children can bond while playing with a variety of Fisher Price developmental toys in specially-designed programs offered exclusively for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean. The Crayola Beginnings line of toddler art tools will be featured in unique developmentally appropriate art activities designed for parents and children to enjoy precious creative moments together.

Within the Youth Zone, Kids Avenue will serve as the main promenade for young cruisers to access the various Adventure Ocean areas. Crayola Arts and crafts activities, scavenger hunts, talent shows and other scheduled and guided age-specific activities will be offered to three Adventure Ocean program age groups, each with its own space: Aquanauts, ages 3 to 5; Explorers, ages 6 to 8; and Voyagers, ages 9 to 11.

In addition, Oasis of the Seas will introduce exciting new common play areas, including the Kid's Arcade for video games; the Workshop, where families can learn scrapbooking skills or create personalized jewelry; Imagination Studio where children can explore the world of color and imagination through Adventure Art by Crayola; a fully-equipped lab for Adventure Science Lab, where Einsteins-in-the-making can expand their knowledge; Play, a circular area where children can rollick and participate in a variety of sports and games; and Adventure Ocean Theater, the first-ever children's theater at sea - complete with a stage and curtains, audience seating and state-of-the-art production equipment - where children of all ages can learn about theatrical productions, take part in talent shows, or sign up for hip hop dance classes.

The teen-only spaces will be located one deck above the Adventure Ocean areas and adjacent to the ship's Sports Deck, where kids can test their skills on one of the ship's two FlowRider surf simulators; the miniature golf-course, Oasis Dunes; or the Sports Court for volleyball and basketball games. The physical separation of the teen-only spaces from younger Adventure Ocean guests will be one of the many striking enhancements implemented as a recommendation of Royal Caribbean's Teen Advisory Board - a group of teens recruited last year to identify what youths between the ages of 12- and 17-years would want to see aboard future Royal Caribbean ships.

Longtime favorite Royal Caribbean teen-only spaces, Fuel disco and The Living Room, will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, only larger and more state-of-the-art. The Living Room will be the ultimate go-to hangout for teens to kick back and socialize at the "mock-tail" bar, which serves non-alcoholic sodas and juice concoctions; learn to spin and mix music in Scratch DJ 101 classes, a part of Royal Caribbean's Scratch DJ Academy; or surf the Internet and keep in touch with friends via the bank of computer stations dedicated to the space. Teens also will be able to kick it up a notch at Fuel, a disco which will feature a hip environment, where they can hang out with friends, and a dance floor, where they can show off their moves. A spacious outdoor deck adjacent to these venues will give teens more opportunities to make new friends while on their cruise vacation.

In addition to the areas within the Youth Zone and teen-only spots aboard Oasis of the Seas, special attractions for children of all ages also will be located throughout the ship' other neighborhoods. Along the Boardwalk, kids and teens will be able to shop at retail stores tailored to their interests, and infants and toddlers can ride the Carousel with their parents or enjoy the climbing and play space modeled after a 50's style gas station next to the popular Johnny Rockets restaurant. The lively Challengers Arcade also will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, and will be decked out with the latest video games sure to entertain kids and teens. In the Vitality Spa and Fitness Zone, teens and tweens can enjoy a menu of spa options specially tailored for them in a dedicated space at the Vitality at Sea Spa.

A diverse selection of activities for families and guests of all ages will be found in all of the neighborhoods throughout Oasis of the Seas. Family-friendly innovations range from the industry's first amphitheater, the AquaTheater, featuring theatrical diving performances and spectacular water and light shows; the first zip line at sea stretching 82 feet in length and suspended nine decks above the exciting Boardwalk area; and in the Pool & Sports Zone, the H2O Zone aquapark with its toddler pool and the first beach pool at sea, featuring a true-to-form sloped entry and colorful beach chairs and umbrellas to give guests the ultimate beach experience.

When she launches in November 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line's new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Additional information is available at www.oasisoftheseas.com.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska and Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and South America.

Participants in the second “John Heald Bloggers Cruise” – taking place aboard the newly refurbished Carnival Fantasy from New Orleans in February 2009 – will not only enjoy five fun-filled days sailing with the popular senior cruise director, but they can also make a difference in the lives of local residents.

The “Bloggers Cruise Community Service Day” will take place in New Orleans on Friday, Feb. 6, 2009, the day prior to the departure of the second annual cruise – a five-day voyage to Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico, operating Feb. 7-12, 2009.

Partnering with the city’s Beacon of Hope Resource Center, “Bloggers Cruise Community Service Day” participants will clear debris and plant trees, helping to spruce up a neighborhood in New Orleans that sustained significant damage from Hurricane Katrina.

Carnival is also partnering with Maison St. Charles Hotel & Suites to provide one- and two-night pre-cruise land stays at special rates for “Bloggers Cruise Community Service Day” participants.

“I invite everyone to join me in helping the people of New Orleans and we look forward to working with the Beacon of Hope Resource Center in helping to beautify this magnificent city,” Heald said. “Once on board, we’ll enjoy Carnival Fantasy’s ‘Evolutions of Fun’ upgrades, as well as special events and shows just for my blogging friends. It’s going to be a brilliant cruise and I can’t wait to see you there,” he added.

Added Heather Huth, director of volunteers for the Beacon of Hope Resource Center, “Our goal is to create an environment that encourages our residents to return home. Although we are proud of how far we’ve come, there is still a long way to go. We are always in need of volunteer service and truly appreciate Carnival’s role in New Orleans’ continued recovery efforts.”

Following the hands-on charity activity, “Bloggers Cruise Community Service Day” participants will be the guests of honor at a cocktail reception hosted by Heald which will serve as a kick-off event for the voyage.

During the five-day cruise on Carnival Fantasy, Heald will host a number of exclusive events, including a Welcome Aboard reception, trivia contests, question-and-answer sessions and even an exclusive “Tea Time with John” session.

Special photo opportunities with Heald will be available as well. A variety of special giveaways and logo items also will be provided to all “Bloggers Cruise” participants, and Heald will, of course, be submitting posts to his blog throughout the voyage.

Carnival Fantasy was selected as the venue for the second “Bloggers Cruise” as it is the latest “Fun Ship” to undergo all phases of the line’s “Evolutions of Fun” refurbishment program, which has resulted in a total transformation of the 2,056-passenger SuperLiner.

The upgrades include a “Carnival WaterWorks” aqua park with a 300-foot-long water slide, dual-lane 82-foot-long racing slides and various water spray apparatus, along with “Serenity,” an adults-only retreat located aft and featuring comfortable chaise lounges and chairs and two oversized whirlpools.

The mid-ship pool was renovated and now offers a distinctly tropical ambiance, with thatched roofing, colorful umbrellas and other design elements. These renovations complement the first phase of the program, which included extensive refurbishments to a variety of public areas, as well as all staterooms and suites.

Reservations are currently being accepted for the Bloggers Cruise aboard the Carnival Fantasy Feb. 7-12, 2009, as well as the pre-cruise land stay at the Maison St. Charles Hotel & Suites. Participants must request fare code CPBL/FPBL when booking the cruise to be included in the 2009 Bloggers Cruise events.

For additional information and reservations, contact your travel agent at #1-800-738-8837.

Miami - (October 24, 2008 ) - The most widely heralded cruise ship to enter the market this year, Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Solstice, was delivered today at a ceremony in Emshaven, Netherlands, marking the formal transfer of the ship – the first in a class of five – from shipbuilder Meyer Werft to Celebrity Cruises. The ship will begin its transatlantic voyage October 25, with arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., anticipated November 3.

"With its innovative, half-acre Lawn Club with real, growing grass; the Hot Glass Show offered through our alliance with The Corning Museum of Glass; 10 widely varied restaurants, including four in the specialty category; stylish, spacious staterooms whose design was influenced by a panel of five women with unique travel and hospitality insights; and, of course, the intangible attribute found on every Celebrity ship – extraordinary service – Celebrity Solstice is the perfect manifestation of what the Celebrity brand is all about," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan.

"We are indebted to the countless, highly dedicated individuals who have brought this spectacular ship to this point, and who have shared our passion for innovation, and our dedication to excellence," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Celebrity Cruises' parent company, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Soon after its arrival in Fort Lauderdale on November 3, Celebrity Solstice will serve as the perfect platform for Celebrity Cruises' first Global Sales Meeting, followed by a series of exclusive, two-night preview cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries. Celebrity Solstice will be named in formal ceremonies on November 14, and will embark on its inaugural season November 23, on a series of seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. In spring 2009, the stunning new ship will introduce a series of romantic 10- and 11-night Mediterranean sailings roundtrip from Rome.

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" in the large-ship category, as voted by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers’ poll), Celebrity's fleet – including the new Celebrity Solstice – will be joined by Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011, and a fifth in 2012. For more information, call your travel agent at #1-800-738-8837.

Princess Cruises Celebrates Ultimate Romantic Milestone as Part of Ship Launch
"Love Boat" Captain Gavin MacLeod and "Bachelorette" Couple Trista and Ryan Sutter Serve as Attendants for California Pair

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (October 28, 2008) - What better way for "the most romantic cruise line" to celebrate the launch of its new Ruby Princess than by incorporating an actual wedding in the naming ceremony? In a first, a California couple will be married during the ship's christening festivities on November 6. Ruby Princess godparents, romantic television celebrities Trista and Ryan Sutter, will serve as attendants and former Love Boat captain, Gavin MacLeod, will give away the bride.

The couple, Danielle Vurpillat and Kip Hickman from Dunsmuir, Calif., were invited to share their nuptials with guests onboard after entering the Princess Cruises and USA TODAY "Romance on the Ruby" contest. In their submission they shared that it would be their dream to create their own romantic milestone by getting married onboard the new Ruby Princess - and in true Love Boat fashion, Princess is making their dream come true. In addition to the celebrity attendants, a member of the line's Department of Romance, Phil Roberts, a minister, will perform the ceremony.

Princess Cruises has long been associated with romance on the high seas, dating back to its days as the setting for the now-iconic TV show. Cementing that connection, Princess was just named the "Best Cruise Line for Romance" and "Best Cruise Line for Weddings" in the 2008 Cruise Critic Editors' Picks Awards. The Ruby Princess naming ceremony continues the line's tradition of romance as Trista and Ryan, who met and married on the television hit The Bachelorette, will christen the ship.

"A ship's naming is an exciting event in itself, so including an actual wedding in the ceremony will certainly make this a one-of-a-kind celebration," said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president. "We aim to make this a fantastic romantic milestone for Danielle and Kip as they begin their life together as husband and wife."

The wedding will take place during the ship's naming ceremony on Thursday, November 6 at 5:00 p.m. while Ruby Princess is berthed in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The couple will then enjoy the festivities during the subsequent two-night inaugural preview cruise for VIPs.

"Since we met and married on national television five years ago, we feel very well suited to be Danielle and Kip's attendants as they wed in front of more than 2,500 people onboard Ruby Princess," said Trista Sutter. "We can coach them on making sure this milestone is special and intimate for them, even though it will be viewed by many thousands of people."

The wedding and entire Ruby Princess naming ceremony will be available for viewing on line at www.princess.com beginning November 7.

The 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess includes a dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing line-up of street performers. Passengers will also enjoy Princess' other array of dining venues including the signature Sabatini's Italian restaurant and the Crown Grill steak house, plus a relaxing oasis just for adults called The Sanctuary.

The new 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, and a wedding chapel.

During Ruby Princess' inaugural season she will make seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale 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.

Seattle, WA, October 2, 2008 - With today's traveler looking for more enriching experiences and activities, Holland America Line has broadened its onboard programming with the new Explorations Team. As part of the premium line's ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Team will be comprised of event staff with specific, niche expertise ranging from technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of "edutainment" programs.

The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be a cohesive team dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard party planner, a travel guide, a "techspert" and dance directors. On cruises lasting 12-days or more, a book club leader will also join the team.

"People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs, events and activities they can personally connect with," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that choice."

The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the innovative program which already brings more than 70 culinary experts on board each year for cooking demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line's beloved towel animals.

The travel guide will host lectures and be a one-stop source for information on the various ports of call. A destination expert, the travel guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the destination's history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on ms Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.

The "techspert" will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos, arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a movie. Classes and personal workshops will be available throughout the cruise. Novices can learn about web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Those with more experience will enjoy the opportunity to learn new shortcuts and techniques.

Dance directors show guests how to dance the night away. Classes are available throughout each cruise. Whether teaching line dancing in the Crow's Nest or ballroom dancing in the Ocean Bar, the dance instructors will ensure guests of all experience levels enjoy themselves while learning new steps. After class, guests will find dance events on the ship's activity schedule where they may show off their new moves.

On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host lively book discussions in the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times. Book titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests interested in joining the discussion will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be "In a Sunburned Country" by Bill Bryson or in Asia, 'Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan."

With the addition of this new team of experts, Holland America Line guests now will have even more memories to take home from their cruise plus the personal experiences that have enriched their lives to share with family and friends. The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented fleet-wide.

This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line's ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry-dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.

For a cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

- www.hollandamerica.com -

Editor's note: Images available at http://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/W10zg:MGy:2qk.

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 in more than 100 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, and highlights include 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 15th ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, is scheduled to join the fleet in 2010.

Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, a commitment totaling more than $525 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.

Pub Lunch, Sabatini's Suite Breakfast, and Unique Enrichment Programs Among New Offerings Introduced

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (October 20, 2008) -- When Ruby Princess launches on November 8, the ship will introduce a host of new shipboard services and special features, underscoring Princess' tradition of continually evolving the onboard experience for its passengers. Among the new options is a pub lunch, an exclusive breakfast for suite passengers, unique enrichment programs from astronomy to mixology, two new stage shows, plus expanded wireless Internet and cell phone connectivity.

The 3,070-passenger vessel will feature the familiar favorites that have become passenger pleasers aboard its sister ships Crown Princess and Emerald Princess but, in addition, other special touches and innovations will be found throughout the service, dining and entertainment areas.

"The new features aboard Ruby Princess are a perfect example of our commitment to provide passengers with the widest array of intriguing options to customize their cruise vacation," said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president.

Many of the ship's enhancements are slated to become staples across the Princess fleet following their debut on Princess' newest ship. Among the new features being introduced on Ruby Princess:

Wheelhouse Bar Pub Lunch -- On sea days, Ruby Princess' Wheelhouse Bar will be transformed into an authentic English-style pub, serving a selection of traditional fare. A menu of British favorites, including bangers & mash, fish & chips, ploughman's lunch and cottage pie, will complement a selection of traditional pub brews such as Stella Artois, Bass Ale or Guinness. Pub lunch meal service is free of charge and will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Sabatini's Breakfast for Suite Passengers -- Suite passengers aboard Ruby Princess will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive breakfast in Sabatini's. Beginning with a "Good Morning Mimosa," the menu features a variety of breakfast favorites, plus specialty items such as brioche French toast with apple & cinnamon compote, yogurt and super granola parfait with raspberry swirl, soft-poached egg over potato & vegetables with hollandaise sauce, and freshly made Belgian waffles. Suite passengers can enjoy this new amenity, along with the restaurant's dramatic top-of-ship views, from approximately 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Artisan Cheeses at Vines -- In addition to serving more than 30 wines by the glass and seafood appetizers that have made Vines a passenger favorite, the atrium-area bar on Ruby Princess will now feature a selection of domestic and imported artisan cheeses. Twelve varieties -- including unique choices such as boschetto al tartufo bianchetto, reblochon, and cambozola -- will be featured each day for a nominal fee. Vines will also host a series of lively events where passengers can meet members of the ship's staff, and will continue to offer wine flights and parings.

New Enrichment Programs -- A number of new ScholarShip@Sea enrichment programs debut aboard Ruby Princess to expand passengers' horizons, whether they aspire to host the perfect party or increase their maritime knowledge. The Art of Entertaining offers passengers the opportunity to learn party-planning tips from lifestyle expert Susie Coelho via a multimedia presentation hosted by the cruise director. Navigation@Sea focuses on the history of navigation as well as the complexities of plotting the route of a modern cruise ship, with a presentation by the ship's navigator. Mixology@Sea lets passengers channel their inner bartender with a hands-on course taught by the ship's bar manager. For star gazers, the new Astronomy@Sea program provides passengers with the opportunity to explore the night sky through a telescope on the top deck, with the expert guidance of a ship's bridge officer. Developed in conjunction with Dr. Thomai Serdari, Professor of Art History and Director of Research Collections for New York University, Art History@Sea: Botticelli to Warhol, The Evolution of Art makes 500 years of art come to life with a special hour-long presentation.

Two New Production Shows -- Ruby Princess audiences will be able to enjoy two new Princess-produced shows in the ship's theater. "Broadway Ballroom" presents the music of the ‘Great White Way' with a ballroom flair, pairing the songs of hit musicals with dance numbers ranging from foxtrot to rumba. The show also features the talents of a costume designer and choreographer from the TV hit "Dancing with the Stars." Meanwhile, "Once Upon a Dream" uses unique multidimensional cinematic projection to follow a dreamscape unlike anything seen at sea. The audience will accompany a young woman's journey as she dreams of everything from a tea party in an English garden to singing camels in the desert, and even a trip through a waterfall and brief nightmare before waking to a new day.

The Audience Gets in the Act -- A variety of new audience-participation events will also debut on the ship, giving passengers a number of ways to seek their 15 minutes of fame. Karaoke fans can go a bit farther with Love Boat Legends, where they are actually transformed into a famous artist of the past. So You Wanna Be A Rock Star? moves beyond pre-recorded Karaoke tunes to give audience members the opportunity to rock out with a live band on stage. Oceans of Talent puts passenger talent center stage -- whether they play a musical instrument or want to try out their comedic timing. The Wake Up Show takes Princess' popular morning show with the cruise director to a new level with an irreverent talk show format, live band, special guests and an opportunity for passengers to join the "studio" audience, as the show is taped in the evening before its broadcast the next morning.

A Few Fine Touches -- A number of new service touches will be introduced to delight passengers. In the Horizon Court buffet, new waffle stations will offer fresh cooked-to-order waffles at breakfast and throughout lunchtime, and the buffet will also begin serving complimentary lemonade as a beverage choice. In the evening, passengers will find a selection of canapés in several of the ship's public lounges. Passengers arriving back from shore will be greeted with chilled face cloths, and by the pool, "misting stewards" will offer a quick refreshing spritz with Evian to cool off.

Kid Stuff -- Young passengers can enjoy a new Wizards Academy, an exclusive presentation from the award-winning California Science Center. This enriching new program lets children explore the connection between science and magic in a fun and participative environment. Kids will also enjoy activities and projects from popular arts and crafts company Klutz, or participate in Yoga for Kids, a healthy and fun course designed specifically for children.

Wireless Internet and Cell Phones -- Expanding on Princess' Internet and phone connectivity, Ruby Princess will offer laptop users additional wireless hotspots around the vessel, including staterooms. The ship will also be equipped so that passengers can use their personal cellular phones, if they have international roaming plans, while onboard.

Ultimate Ship Tour -- A new exclusive opportunity to experience an array of "back of house" areas that are key to a ship's daily operations, the Ultimate Ship Tour will give passengers the unique opportunity to explore beyond the public areas with visits to the ship's engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab, funnel, bridge and other spaces. In addition to getting a rare insider's view of many areas typically seen only by the ship's crew, participants will receive a variety of themed mementos at many of the stops along the route.

Ruby Princess also includes a dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing array of performing street entertainers, Princess' signature adults-only oasis called The Sanctuary, Sabatini's Italian restaurant, Crown Grill seafood and steak house, "Movies Under the Stars" giant outdoor movie screen, and Hearts and Minds wedding chapel. The ship will feature an inaugural season of Western Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, followed by a program of Mediterranean voyages in summer 2009.

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

Tonight, a California family could win a 7-day cruise on Norwegian Star

Miami, FL - Sep 30, 2008 - Norwegian Cruise Line ("NCL") helps make family dreams come true tonight on ABC's new primetime game show, "Opportunity Knocks," which airs at 8 pm EST (7 pm CT). One California family of five will have the opportunity to win a seven-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera aboard one of NCL's Freestyle Cruising ships, Norwegian Star, as part of the game shows "dream-of-a-lifetime" prize package.

In "Opportunity Knocks," host and executive producer JD Roth knocks on a family's front door in "Anywhere, America," giving them the opportunity to have a family game night where they can win hundreds of thousands of dollars and amazing prizes that could change their lives. Each week, the mobile "Opportunity Knocks" team literally sets up shop on a family's front lawn, where an audience made up of neighbors and friends cheers them on.

In tonight's episode, the Laut family from Lakewood, California that includes parents Don and Rebecca, along with their three children: Aaron, 12; Cody, 10; and Megan, 8; are asked trivia questions based directly on their lives, each other and articles in and around their home. Highlights include mother Rebecca identifying which umpires she is known to heckle at Aaron's Pony League games; Megan is asked if she can remember her brother's slogan from his run for student body president; and Aaron tries to remember the score of a big televised football game that caused his father, Don, to run out into the street whooping and hollering - while wearing his pajamas. For that answer, legendary ABC sportscaster Keith Jackson provides some humorous play-by-play. If they prove they know their family inside and out - in front of all their friends and neighbors - they could win thousands of dollars and amazing prizes, including the NCL cruise to the Mexican Riviera. One of Rebecca Laut's dreams is to take her family on a cruise, and she will have the opportunity to win the cruise tonight.

NCL will be featured on future episodes of the nationally-aired family game show.

Executive producers for "Opportunity Knocks" are Ashton Kutcher, Jason Goldberg, Karey Burke, JD Roth and Todd A. Nelson.

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 a new third generation Freestyle Cruising project known as F3, 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 at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.

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

LOS ANGELES, September 29, 2008 - With its 2009 World Cruise, Crystal Cruises is introducing The Interactive Literary Review, a book club moderated by the dynamic, best-selling author and literary critic Robert Adams. On each of the seven segments Adams and guests will delve into three internationally acclaimed novels. Adams, author of the best-selling book, A Love of Reading, lectures exclusively for Crystal and is applauded for his theatrical "performance reviews" of books.

The program is launching through the ultra-luxury line's Creative Learning Institute, which generously expands its programming on each segment of the 106-day "Pacific Circle Celebration" World Cruise, departing Los Angeles on January 21.

"Crystal's new Literary Review was designed to stimulate discussion, entertain, foster camaraderie and provide an intellectual forum for common interests," said Bret Bullock, vice president, entertainment. "Robert has selected a diverse collection of the world's most compelling, topically relevant books. Set in international locations from Papua New Guinea to Afghanistan, the multi-layered characters and story lines invite discussion."

The 21 novels, penned by authors from more than 10 countries, include such acclaimed titles as A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khalid Hosseini; Cat's Eye, by Margaret Atwood; Palace Walk, by Naguib Mahfouz and Birdsong, by Sebastian Faulks. All titles for each cruise segment are listed at crystalcruises.com. On board, they are available for purchase in the Captain's Choice retail shop, and several of the works, along with more than 1,500 others, are available in Crystal Serenity's library.

Crystal Srenity's World Cruise spans the globe, visiting 45 ports of call in 22 countries throughout the South Pacific, Asia, Africa and Europe. Eight distinctive segments range from 11 to 17 days.

Crystal's Creative Learning Institute

Crystal's Creative Learning Institute provides comprehensive instruction and enrichment opportunities. In addition to the Interactive Literary Review, expert instruction is offered through a wide range of Crystal partners, including Yamaha, Berlitz, Tai Chi Cultural Center, The Cleveland Clinic and The Society of Wine Educators.

The Crystal Difference

Aboard the ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, refined elegance meets casual simplicity. With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is 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. Grounded in more than a decade of accolades, Crystal has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler more than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history.

For additional information and Crystal reservations, please call #1-800-738-8837.

Local Experts, Artisans, Cuisine and Shore Excursions Highlight Aloha Spirit

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (October 3, 2008) -- As Golden Princess begins a new season of sailings to the Hawaiian Islands, Princess Cruises passengers will find themselves immersed in all things Hawai'i, with the culture, traditions, arts and tastes of the island paradise highlighted throughout their cruise.

Whether they're attending demonstrations by local artisans, learning to play the ukulele, exploring historic attractions, or savoring regional cuisine in the dining room, the ship's Hawai'i travelers will enjoy the aloha spirit each day.

"Our goal is to captivate our passengers with onboard experiences that capture the heart and soul of Hawai'i," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president. "We want to make sure that our guests go home with a deeper understanding of the islands and the people who live there."

This year, Princess' Hawaiian programs are engaging passengers with a variety of cultural presentations and demonstrations, interpretive lectures, folkloric performances, hands-on activities, Hawaiian cuisine, and a number of new Adventures Ashore excursion options throughout the islands. Among these Hawaiian experiences are:

In-Port Guest Artists -- A variety of local artisans and performers will come aboard during select island port calls. Passengers will observe the unique expertise needed to create these truly Hawaiian arts, and may learn some craft skills themselves.

Kaua'i: Ni'ihau Shell Artists -- The "forbidden" island of Ni'ihau is privately owned and largely closed to the rest of the world. Although outsiders generally cannot visit there, Princess passengers have the unique opportunity to share in the island's traditional culture when some of Ni'ihau's skilled artisans come onboard for a special shell lei making demonstration. Following an ancient art form, the native Hawaiian lei makers use tiny and delicate shells found only on the northern coast of Ni'ihau, creating pieces that are highly prized as fine jewelry. In a presentation exclusive to Princess, passengers are invited to meet the artists and watch as they demonstrate the intricate process and share history of the craft. Although these heirloom-quality pieces are not widely available in stores, those who wish to own one of these stunning lei will also have the opportunity to purchase them from the craftswomen while they are onboard in Kaua'i.

Hilo: Selected Artisans -- In another presentation unique to Princess, native bone carver Dean Kaahanui comes aboard during some Big Island calls to present a workshop on the history of his craft and demonstrate the art of bone carving. During the workshop, he'll also explain the inspiration for his work, which is often based on Hawaiian legends. After the demonstration, passengers also have an opportunity to purchase some of Kaahanui's fine carvings. In Hilo, passengers may also have the opportunity to meet feather lei makers who will teach the ancient art of hulu lei.

Honolulu: Hula Show -- Keiki (children) from the award-winning Halau Hula Olana, one of the islands' most respected hula schools, perform onboard during Honolulu calls. These charming young dancers present an entertaining show that highlights the children's commitment to learning their halau's (school's) unique hula tradition that has been passed down from generations of kumu (teachers), Hawaiian language and the stories of Hawai'i.

Naturalists and Lecturers -- Passengers can also add to their knowledge and appreciation of the islands through a series of special presentations from guest lecturers and naturalists -- many from prestigious organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Park Service. These experts will provide insight on the wonders of the islands, including marine biology, whale migration, volcanoes, the islands' unusual endemic species, Hawaiian culture and history, and local myths and legends.

Regional Hawaiian Cuisine -- Hawai'i's bountiful fare -- including fresh fruits such as pineapples and mangos, unique fish and seafood, luau staples such as roast pig, and treats like coconut and macadamia nuts -- star in Princess' special Hawaiian regional cuisine selections. Princess chefs use the state's abundance of unique flavors to serve up such dishes as Macadamia and Panko Crusted Mahimahi, Lehua Honey BBQ Pork Spareribs, and Luau Pork with Apricot Drippings. A festive Hawaiian Island Night celebration will also feature a full buffet feast loaded with a rich variety of local taste treats, including pupus, a fresh fruit carving station and tropical-themed desserts.

New Adventures Ashore -- Several new shore excursion options debut this season, adding some enticing island activities to Princess' line-up of nearly 100 Hawai'i tour choices. For those who want to indulge in island flavors, A Gourmet Tour of Volcanoes National Park (Hilo) offers the opportunity to not only enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, but also visit a local coffee mill, winery and artisanal candy company -- the latter for tastings of fresh macadamia cookies. In Honolulu, passengers can enjoy the romantic Ali'i Dinner Cruise, a sunset sailing on the world's largest Polynesian catamaran. In addition, Honolulu visitors can choose a new way to see Pearl Harbor with the Mighty Mo and Pacific Aviation Museum tour -- featuring the battleship USS Missouri, where Japan surrendered to end World War II. On Maui, passengers can enjoy one of the state's best snorkeling sites with the Molokini Crater Snorkel Adventure & SNUBA tour.

On Kaua'i, the new Grove Farm and Kauai Plantation Railway tour lets passengers discover the history of the Garden Isle with visits to Grove Farm, a beautifully preserved homestead and sugar plantation, plus ride the narrow gauge railway at Kilohana Plantation through fields of sugar cane, bananas, pineapples, papaya and coffee. Also on Kaua'i, passengers can explore an area usually inaccessible to the public with the Historic Haraguchi Rice Mill and Hanalei Taro Fields tour -- featuring Hawaii's only remaining rice mill and surrounding taro fields. Kaua'i visitors can also enjoy visits to the historic Kilauea Lighthouse and Limahuli Botanical Garden, a lush 17-acre garden complex set in a scenic 900-acre botanical preserve. Finally, passengers can opt for the Ultimate Island Adventure by Private Vehicle, where they can choose to explore Kaua'i's north or south shore in the comfort of their own VIP luxury vehicle.

Passenger Activities -- For passengers who want to immerse themselves further in Hawaiian culture, onboard instructors teach a number of classes throughout the cruise, including the opportunity to learn such local skills as orchid lei making, hula dancing (both traditional and contemporary), sarong tying, Hawaiian language and ukulele playing. Ukulele aficionados can even show off their new skills at the end of the cruise with a passenger talent show.

The Islands on Film and TV -- The ship's movie and television programs will also put passengers in the island mood with Hawaiian topics and stories. Princess partnered with the National Park Service to produce an exclusive video presentation on Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park that gives passengers a comprehensive preview of this spectacular attraction. Hawaiian-themed films have been added to the ships' selection of recent Hollywood movies, with classics such as "From Here to Eternity" and documentaries such as "Riding Giants," profiling the world's top surfers. In addition, a selection of travel videos and documentaries give passengers a feel for the islands. Among them are a series of National Geographic presentations covering the islands' unique species, Pearl Harbor and Hawaiian culture, as well as a variety of specials on local-interest topics.

For the 2008-09 season, Golden Princess sails to the Hawaiian Islands on 14 departures. The ship offers 14-day round-trip Hawai'i cruises from Los Angeles that include calls at Hilo, Honolulu, Kaua'i (Nawiliwili), Maui and Ensenada. The ship sails between October 1, 2008 and April 1, 2009.

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

Miami - (September 29, 2008 ) - The most widely heralded ship to enter the cruise market this year, Celebrity Solstice, departed Meyer Werft shipyard yesterday in Papenburg, Germany, as the largest ship ever built by the longtime shipbuilder. In a milestone event known as "The Conveyance," the 2,850-guest Celebrity Solstice made its way down the River Eems, as tens of thousands of area residents lining the river banks cheered and photographed the historic event.

"This is a very momentous occasion for Celebrity Cruises," said the brand's President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Celebrity Solstice is the perfect manifestation of what the Celebrity brand is all about: extraordinary service, spectacular dining, and fabulous style and design. And as the first in a series of five Solstice-class ships, it’s a vivid example of the growth and momentum of the Celebrity brand, and our commitment to meet our guests' and travel agent partners’ demands for more vacation options with Celebrity."

Among the wealth of attributes guests will find only on Celebrity Solstice are: • The industry’s first Lawn Club, a lush, half-acre recreation area with real, growing grass.
• The industry’s first Hot Glass Show, with live glassblowing demonstrations presented in association with The Corning Museum of Glass.
• Larger staterooms, with design inspirations offered by a panel of five women, hand-picked for their unique travel and hospitality insights.
• 10 varied restaurants, ranging from the dramatic, two-level “Grand Epernay” main dining room with a sweeping wine tower, to four exquisite specialty restaurants, to several stylish, casual venues.
• An entirely new category of accommodations, “AquaClass,” designed to offer a spa vacation experience at sea rivaling the best of those on land.
• A state-of-the-art theater and stage design, with three new leading-edge shows custom-designed for Celebrity with Poet Theatricals, in their first cruise line partnership.

"There also is the intangible attribute which is consistent across the Celebrity fleet, and that's the extraordinary, anticipatory service our phenomenal staff offer our guests every day," said Hanrahan.

Celebrity Solstice will be berthed in Eemshaven, Netherlands, from September 29 to October 24, with two separate sea trials planned during that period, in addition to crew arrivals, training, provisioning and finishing work onboard. The ship will depart Eemshaven October 24 on a transatlantic voyage, with arrival in Fort Lauderdale planned for early November, followed by a series of promotional cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries. The ship will be named in formal ceremonies on November 14, and will begin its maiden season November 23, with a series of alternating 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, calling on San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, and Tortola during this Fall and Winter. Celebrity Solstice presents a series of romantic 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises from Rome beginning in Spring 2009.

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 ten "Top Cruise Ships in the World" in the large-ship category, as voted by the readers of Condé 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, a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011, and a fifth in 2012. For more information call #1-800-738-8837.

Visit romanceontheruby.usatoday.com for a Chance to Win a Trip to the Inaugural of Princess Cruises' Newest Ship, Ruby Princess

McLean, VA, September 12, 2008 -- USA TODAY and Princess Cruises today announced a "Romance on the Ruby" contest that will allow 10 lucky couples the chance to attend the naming festivities for Princess Cruises' newest ship, Ruby Princess, November 6-8, 2008, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

For the launch of Ruby Princess, Princess Cruises is celebrating romantic moments and milestones. In honor, celebrity couple Trista and Ryan Sutter will christen the ship. The Sutters, who met on ABC's hit reality series, The Bachelorette, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this fall, and will mark this milestone event during the Ruby Princess inaugural.

USA TODAY and Princess Cruises want to give 10 deserving couples the chance to join the Sutters onboard the ship to celebrate their own romantic milestone event. To enter, couples must submit a 250-word essay by October 3 on what their romantic milestone is and why they deserve a getaway to celebrate. Princess Cruises' Department of Romance members will judge the entries and choose 10 finalists who will receive an all-expense-paid trip with their significant other to the inaugural and two-night sailing on the Ruby Princess. Finalists will be announced on October 17 at romanceontheruby.usatoday.com as well as USA TODAY's online site devoted to cruising,The Cruise Log (cruises.usatoday.com). Trista and Ryan Sutter will then select a grand prize winner out of the 10 finalists who will be named on October 24. The winner and their significant other will win a seven-day sailing on the new Ruby Princess plus coach airfare. For full official rules and to submit your essay, visit romanceontheruby.usatoday.com.

Launched in January 2008, USA TODAY's Cruise Log is one of the premier online homes for people who like to cruise -- a place where both avid and first-time cruisers can get together to talk about lines, ships and ports; ask questions; post photos; read the latest cruise news; research trips and make bookings. The Cruise Log is run by veteran cruise writer and editor Gene Sloan at cruises.usatoday.com.

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-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess offers its passengers the opportunity to escape to the top destinations around the globe, with sailings to all seven continents, ranging in length from seven to 102 days. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Princess Cruises is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, our member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together we offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

About USA TODAY:
USA TODAY is the nation's top-selling newspaper. It is published via satellite at 34 locations in the USA and at four sites abroad. With a total average daily circulation of 2.3 million, USA TODAY is available worldwide. USA TODAY is published by Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI). The USA TODAY brand also includes: USATODAY.com, an award-winning news and information Web site that is updated 24 hours per day; USA TODAY Sports Weekly, a magazine for enthusiasts of college and professional football and baseball; USA TODAY Mobile, offering up-to-the minute news and information on a variety of mobile platforms and devices; and USA TODAY LIVE, the television arm of the USA TODAY brand that brings the spirit and quality of the newspaper to television.

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