|  Dance
with the stars on an MSC Cruise.
MSC Cruises announces star-studded line-up of special
dance cruises for 2010/2011 season.
Cruise
leader MSC Cruises isn’t just renowned for spacious
ships with sumptuous designer interiors, superb cuisine
and friendly Italian service. It’s equally famous
for its creative themed cruises. From Chess and Card
Games to Arts and Crafts, Food and Wine, Dance, Wellbeing
and Beauty, there’s a choice for everyone to combine
their personal passion with a voyage of relaxation,
entertainment and discovery.
Upping the tempo,
the family-owned company with a personal touch has just
announced its 2010-2011 dance cruises, setting feet
tapping in anticipation with a spectacular choice of
18-day cruises across the Atlantic, and one week Baila
Conmigo cruises along the coasts of Argentina and Brazil.
Each of these MSC specials offers daily dance lessons
at beginners’ and intermediate level under the
personal guidance of internationally-acclaimed professionals.
The stars this year include Elaine Santana and Alex
de Oliveira of the Axel Dance Company, and Petra and
Norbert Backhausen of the Tanzschule Backhausen.
With their expert tuition, even complete novices
will be able to get their feet round the right moves
in a sweeping array of dances, from the Tango to the
Mambo, Salsa, Samba, Cha Cha and more, including Ballroom
and Popular Dancing. Each lesson includes a fitness
focus, beginning with a warm-up and ending with stretching,
adopting fun exercises selected to provide the most
appropriate support. Adding depth, there will be workshops
on the origins and special features of the different
dances, bringing insight into their techniques and soul.
MSC’s passion for dance is sure to get you
into the flow, with evening entertainment that includes
beautiful dance shows to thrill and inspire, together
with dance competitions for guests at all levels to
display their progress and prowess - while of course
having a ball. And for the sheer fun of it, there are
costume evenings at which you can twist and twirl to
the tunes of a Carnival Party, Super Sixties and Seventies
Revival, Tropical Dance Night and even the occasional
Tango Night. What’s more, if the captivating rhythms
and soulful melodies of Cape Verdean music are your
passion, an unforgettable experience awaits on MSC Orchestra,
dancing your heart away to internationally-celebrated
pianist and composer Chico Serra and his band.
So, if you’re passionate about dance for self-expression
and for fitness, there could be no finer opportunity
to immerse yourself in its pleasures than an unforgettable
voyage with MSC Cruises, dancing Latin American in its
lands of origin. You’ll be enjoying superb sports,
leisure and entertainment facilities, accompanied by
fantastic food and drink from around the world - all
served with Italian taste and style. And you could be
exploring the famous sights of Rome, Venice, Tunis,
Lisbon, Madeira, Buenos Aires, Santos or Rio de Janeiro
and more, depending on which route you select, cruising
either way across the Atlantic or along the sunshine
coast of South America.
Returning home with
incomparable memories, guests will treasure a special
souvenir, with each participant receiving a beautiful
certificate upon completion of their cruise, testifying
to the new skills they have acquired. The first of these
MSC Cruises dance spectaculars will be stepping out
on MSC Armonia from 20th September to 8th October 2010,
followed by MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Opera and
MSC Lirica all the way through to April 2011. So that
whenever you can get away, you can dance away with the
stars. To find out more about MSC's special dance cruises,
please call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 Carnival
Inspiration to Reposition to Long Beach, Carnival Paradise
to Tampa in Fall 2011. Carnival
Cruise Lines has announced two exciting year-round homeport
deployments for fall 2011, with Carnival Inspiration
repositioning to Long Beach, Calif., for three- and
four-day Baja departures and Carnival Paradise to Tampa,
Fla., on four- and five-day Caribbean voyages.
Carnival Inspiration is currently based in Tampa
while Carnival Paradise operates from Long Beach. To
reposition to their new homeports, each ship will offer
a 14-day Panama Canal voyage that will provide consumers
with a highly attractive longer length “Fun Ship”
cruise option, as well as the unforgettable experience
of transiting the Panama Canal.
Carnival Paradise
Panama Canal cruise will sail from Long Beach to Tampa
departing Nov. 28, 2011, while Carnival Inspiration
Panama Canal voyage will depart Dec. 3, 2011, and operate
from Tampa to Long Beach. These voyages will be highlighted
by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of transiting
the Panama Canal, one of the great technological achievements
of the 20th century, where ships are raised 85 feet
in the air via a series of three locks and then gently
lowered back again.
The transit also includes
the crossing of 163-square-mile Gatun Lake, the world’s
largest man-made lake, which is surrounded by a variety
of native tropical foliage and interesting sites. Each
voyage will also feature visits to five magnificent
ports of call: Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico;
Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Cartagena, Colombia; and George
Town, Grand Cayman.
Cabo San Lucas is a world-class
resort destination distinguished by rugged rock formations,
lush landscape and gorgeous beaches. Known for its death-defying
cliff divers, Acapulco boasts excellent beaches, and
a variety of fine restaurants and shops. Located on
Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, Puntarenas is a tropical
paradise with beautiful beaches and an abundance of
wildlife and eco-tourism opportunities. Cartagena features
centuries-old architecture and historical sites, including
a colonial walled city and fortress designated as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. The capital of the Cayman
Islands, George Town offers outstanding duty-free bargains
as well as world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. Early Saver
rates for these voyages start at $949 per person based
on double occupancy.
Carnival Inspiration
to Long Beach
Carnival Inspiration will bring
an exciting new dimension to West Coast cruising when
it launches year-round three- and four-day Baja cruises
from Long Beach Dec. 19, 2011. On this route, three-day
cruises depart Fridays and visit Ensenada while four-day
voyages depart Mondays and call at both Ensenada and
Catalina Island. The ship will operate a special one-time
two-day cruise to Ensenada Dec. 17-19, 2011. Carnival
Inspiration was the first ship to undergo the line’s
extensive “Evolutions of Fun” refurbishment
and includes a WaterWorks aqua park with a 300-foot-long
Twister water slide, a tropical resort-style main pool
area, and an exclusive adults-only retreat.
Carnival Paradise to Tampa
In turn, Carnival
Paradise will assume Carnival Inspiration’s popular
year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruise
schedule from Tampa beginning Dec. 12, 2011. On this
route, Carnival Paradise will depart Thursdays on four-day
cruises to Cozumel and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day
voyages to Cozumel and Grand Cayman. Carnival Paradise
offers a distinctive décor with dramatic public spaces
that pay homage to great ocean liners of the past, with
memorable venues such as the Queen Mary Lounge, Normandie
Theater, and Rotterdam Bar. The ship also offers Serenity,
an exclusive adults-only retreat.
Carnival
Cruise Reservations
Reservations are currently
being accepted for the new schedules of the Carnival
Inspiration and Carnival Paradise as well as the 14
day Panama Canal cruises. For additional information
and reservations, call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 Princess
Cruises Reveals 2011-12 Panama Canal Season. Line's
Unique Two-Day Canal Experience Offers Extra Time in
Panama.
Since its debut nearly a century ago,
the Panama Canal has been considered one of the world's
most important engineering marvels. This 51-mile passageway
between oceans can save a ship more than 7,000 transit
miles around South America, and never ceases to amaze
cruise passengers.
Princess Cruises' ships have
long offered a front-row view of the Panama Canal, and
in 2011-12 the line will offer 38 cruises to this signature
destination, with five different itinerary options.
The Panama Canal's history adds to its status as a "must
see" destination.
The single most expensive
construction project in United States history at the
time, "big ditch" took more than 30 years
to build at a cost of about $375 million. The Canal's
lengthy history included construction efforts by two
different nations and the creation of an independent
Panama. In total, Canal construction involved as many
as 80,000 workers and the excavation of around 268,000,000
cubic yards of earth.
Today the Canal offers
passage to approximately 14,000 ships a year. Princess
passengers sailing the Canal will enjoy the amenities
of two vessels specifically built for Panama Canal cruising
-- Coral Princess and Island Princess. The sides of
these ships just clear the massive locks that use an
average of 52 million gallons of water in each chamber
as they eventually lift and lower vessels a total of
170 feet as they pass from the Caribbean to the Pacific
during the nine-hour transit.
"Our ships
have been transiting the Panama Canal for more than
40 years and, in fact, we even christened Coral Princess
as it moved through the Canal," said Jan Swartz,
Princess Cruises executive vice president. "There
really is no better way to watch the fascinating process
as the ship transits each lock than from the decks of
our ships -- it's an exceptional way to experience this
wonder of engineering."
Princess' unique
Two-day Canal Experience, available on many longer sailings,
combines a full transit of the Canal, including the
Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun Locks, with a second
day in Panama at Fuerte Amador. This extra day gives
travelers time to explore Panama further with excursions
such as riding the Panama Canal Railway, exploring a
rainforest, visiting an authentic Embera Indian village
or touring bustling Panama City.
Beyond the
Panama Canal, these itineraries offer calls in Caribbean
Islands, Mexican Riviera resort towns, and a number
of intriguing ports in Central America. In Costa Rica,
passengers will discover a land of tropical rain forests,
lush coffee plantations and white sand coastlines set
against a backdrop of majestic mountains. In San Juan
del Sur, Nicaragua, this scenic fishing village offers
beautiful white-sand beaches and ecological richness,
while the nearby city of Granada is the oldest city
in Central America.
Panama Canal itineraries
include:
Panama Canal Two-Day Experience Cruises
-- Coral Princess and Island Princess will feature
three itineraries offering Princess' Two-Day Canal Experience
-- a full Panama Canal transit combined with a full
day at Fuerte Amador on the Pacific side of Panama.
The 14 day itinerary sails between Ft. Lauderdale and
Los Angeles with calls at Aruba, Cartagena, and Puntarenas
(Costa Rica) in addition to the Two-Day Canal Experience.
A 15 day option offers an additional call
in Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala). And another 15 day option
sails from San Francisco to Ft. Lauderdale with calls
at Cabo San Lucas, Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Cartagena,
and Aruba. Sailings on these itineraries depart between
September 25, 2011 and April 27, 2012. Coral Princess
and Island Princess also offer longer Grand Adventures
of 17, 18 and 19 days, sailing to and from Vancouver.
Full Panama Canal Transit Sailings -- A
new 14 day itinerary between Los Angeles and Ft Lauderdale,
offering a full Panama Canal transit plus visits to
Cabo San Lucas, San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua), Puntarenas
(Costa Rica), Cartagena and Aruba. Coral Princess offers
four sailings on this route, with departures on October
25, November 8, 2011, February 28, and March 13, 2012.
Roundtrip Panama Canal Cruises -- Island
Princess will sail on this classic 10 day roundtrip
itinerary from Ft. Lauderdale, which offers a partial
Panama Canal transit to Gatun Lake followed by a call
in Colon, plus calls in the Caribbean ports of Aruba,
Cartagena, Limon (Costa Rica), and Grand Cayman or Ocho
Rios. The ship offers 20 departures between October
10, 2011 and April 17, 2012. Additional information
about Princess Panama Canal cruises is available from
Seven Seas Travel, please call 888-798-9133.
 Carnival’s
Cruise Ship-Themed Exhibit Sets Sail at Miami Children’s
Museum with Host of New Hands-On Activities.
In a nod to maritime tradition, Miami Children’s
Museum and Carnival Cruise Lines today uncorked a confetti-filled
bottle to launch a redesigned cruise ship–shaped
exhibit where kids can sail on a sea of discovery and
learn the secrets behind one of South Florida’s
leading industries.
The two-level 1,850-square-foot
exhibit – the country’s only cruise-themed
children’s museum attraction – has been completely
renovated and now offers a host of new hands-on, interactive
activities that promise oceans of fun while educating
kids about seagoing travel and maritime careers.
New features on the exhibit’s first level include
Puppet Ship Theater, where kids can learn about different
maritime careers while putting on a puppet show with
a cast of miniature captains, engineers, chefs and other
shipboard personnel. Young visitors also have their
moment in the spotlight dressing up and performing as
Carnival entertainers with dazzling, sequin-festooned
costumes.
A new “What You Can Do On A
Cruise” activity includes spinning and matching
games that teach kids about the variety of fun on-board
happenings as well as sights they might see along the
way. Positioned in the “bow” of the ship-shaped
exhibit is a cozy seating area where kids and parents
can read a book or enjoy a quiet activity. Also located
throughout the first level are hands-on tabletop activities
and games, interactive wall bubbles and “fun facts”
about the Carnival vacation experience and what shipboard
life is like.
The exhibit’s second level,
which replicates the equipment and technology found
on a cruise ship bridge, is just as engaging. Here,
children can plot a course in the Caribbean with authentic
maps and charts, and listen to actual recordings of
officers, harbor pilots and quartermasters as they bring
a vessel into port.
Kids can also see “how
low can they go” with a fun limbo exercise, create
their own Calypso music with bongos and steel drums
that are typically associated with a “fun in the
sun” Caribbean cruise or learn about shipbuilding
through fun, interactive puzzles. Appropriately, the
second level bridge overlooks an adjacent exhibit which
replicates the Port of Miami.
Carnival partnered
with Atlanta-based Purpose Studios to completely renovate,
redesign and re-engineer the exhibit to offer a more
nautical feel with teak-like flooring, ship railings,
portholes and other design elements. The renovation
also includes dramatic lighting effects and a colorful
mural that re-creates the vantage point of a cruise
ship on the ocean, depicting a sea of aqua-blue waters
and a Carnival ship on the horizon.
Carnival’s
exhibit debuted in conjunction with the Miami Children’s
Museum’s Watson Island grand opening in 2003 and
over the past seven years thousands of kids have learned
about cruising and maritime careers interacting with
the ship-shaped attraction. “This exhibit embodies
the museum’s mission of making learning fun by
allowing kids to immerse themselves in the world of
cruising and discover the important role the maritime
industry plays here in South Florida,” said Jim
Berra, Carnival’s chief marketing officer.
“And on a personal note, the Miami Children’s
Museum is one of my family’s favorite places to
beat the heat during the summer.” “From
the beginning, Carnival has been a valuable partner
with the Museum, providing a quality exhibit where children
and families can play, learn, imagine and create,”
said Deborah Spiegelman, the museum’s executive
director. “These fantastic new enhancements to
the exhibit continue to provide a first class experience
for everyone. I don’t know of any other museum
that can boast about having its own cruise ship inside.”
The updated Carnival exhibit is one of 14 fun-filled
galleries at the Miami Children’s Museum, located
at 980 MacArthur Causeway on Watson Island in Miami.
Entrance to the exhibit is included with each regular
admission to the museum. Admission is $15 for adults
and children, $12 for Florida residents, free for children
under 1 year old and admission for museum members is
complimentary. For more information contact the Museum
at 305/373-KIDS (5437) or visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org.
 Crystal
Cruises Decks the Halls - and Everything Else - for
2010 Holiday Voyages.
Elaborate New Décor Creates Festive Celebrations
for Christmas & New Year at Sea.
In its
traditional six-star style, Crystal Cruises is introducing
extravagantly redesigned décor aboard its two
award-winning ships this holiday season. With each ship
boasting distinctly different themes, thousands of glittering
lights, ribbon-wrapped wreaths, reindeer in faux mink
swags, candy canes, crystal ornaments – even feathers
– will adorn Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity
for the 2010 Christmas/New Year cruises.
Respectively,
the vessels sail round-trip from Los Angeles on a December
22 voyage to the Hawaiian Islands and round-trip from
Miami on a December 21 Caribbean itinerary. “Holidays
aboard Crystal ships are always lavish affairs, with
unforgettable banquets and parties and decorations planned
for families and friends traveling and celebrating together,”
says Bret Bullock, vice president, entertainment.
Crystal
Symphony will sport a sophisticated palette, beginning
with three heralding angels, complete with lushly feathered
wings and golden trumpets, overlooking the Crystal Plaza.
In the Bistro, an Eiffel Tower Christmas tree with apropos
coffee-themed ornaments will be lit from within, while
golden- and white-feathered trees are set throughout
the Avenue of the Stars and Crystal Cove.
Suiting
Crystal Serenity’s Caribbean destinations, tropically
dressed penguins and polar bears will serve as Santa’s
helpers in the Palm Court lobby, with snowflakes and
lighted icicles at virtually every turn. The Stardust
lounge will become Santa’s workshop, and a chic,
cocktail-themed tree will hang upside-down in Pulse
nightclub, while Silk Road and The Sushi Bar display
chopstick-laden trees.
Christmas brings traditional
feasts, eggnog and holiday shows, while a black-tie
New Year’s Eve party rings in the New Year. Clergy
will be on board for religious services. Both 14 day
sailings include $500 per person ‘All Inclusive
– As You Wish’ shipboard credits. With promotional
Two-for-One fares, Crystal Serenity’s Caribbean
cruise starts at $7,995 per person, double occupancy.
Guests booking by September 30 save $1,000 per person
savings on verandah and penthouse accommodations, and
kids age 17 and under sail free in a third berth with
two full-fare adults.
Crystal Symphony’s
Hawaiian voyage starts at $6,395 per person, double
occupancy. Crystal’s ultra-luxury ships are
the highest rated ships in the world. For more information
and to make Crystal Cruise Holiday reservations, please
contact Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 Seven
New Overland Seabourn Journeys Highlight 2011 Seabourn
Sojourn World Cruise. Fully-Escorted
Land Packages Explore World Landmarks and Must-See Destinations.
The Yachts of Seabourn is offering seven new optional
Seabourn Journeys to guests aboard Seabourn Sojourn
during its 111-day Maiden World Cruise in 2011. The
adventurous, multi-day packages will explore UNESCO
World Heritage Sites, landmark monuments and more, such
as India’s famous Taj Mahal and the magnificent
Leshan Gian Buddha in China. These tours will provide
an in-depth travel experience of each destination and
will enhance guests’ memories as they travel around
the world. All Seabourn Journeys packages are fully
escorted, and include deluxe hotel accommodations, transportation,
some meals and guided tours.
“Seabourn
Sojourn will visit 49 ports during her maiden world
cruise,” said Pamela C. Conover, Seabourn’s
President and CEO. “But there are still other sites
that travelers should see when they travel around the
world, so we are pleased to offer these exhilarating
options to our guests,” she continued. “From
Australia’s wine country to one of the world’s
greatest archaeological sites in Angkor, our Seabourn
Journeys will take guests to seven more inland jewels
in seamless Seabourn style.”
Highlights
of the 2011 World Cruise Seabourn Journeys include:
Spectacular Queenstown and Mt. Cook National Park
January 25 – January 28, 2011; Auckland to Akaroa,
New Zealand. This three-night overland adventure
introduces guests to the spectacular sights of UNESCO’s
Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Site and Mount
Cook National Park, where they will discover the scenic
wonderland of the majestic Southern Alps, tranquil lakes
and imposing glaciers. Guests will fly to the “adventure
capital of the world,” Queenstown, and experience
an exciting jet boat excursion through the impressive
Shotover Gorge. $2,900 per guest/double occupancy.
Barossa Vintages and Australia’s Red Center
February 10 – February 14, 2011; Adelaide to Freemantle,
Australia. Oenophiles who are fans of big, bold,
full-bodied shirazes and cabernet sauvignons will enjoy
a one-night trip to Barossa Valley, the jewel of Australia's
wine country. Then it’s on to the Outback, where
guests will spend two nights in a luxury tent at an
eco-sensitive wilderness camp and witness the beautiful,
vibrant hues of the rising and setting sun reflecting
on Uluru (Ayers Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guests will also feast on sumptuous outback fare and
discover the wonders of the southern night sky. $6,500
per guest/double occupancy.
Chengdu’s
Giant Panda Discovery February 25 – March 1, 2011;
Hong Kong, China to Cai Lan, Vietnam. On this exclusive
four-night Seabourn Overland Journey, guests will visit
the Chengdu Panda Base to see giant pandas, a Chinese
national treasure and beloved worldwide. Chengdu is
home to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site and the largest stone Buddha in the world. Following
Chengdu, guests will spend a day in Hanoi, Vietnam,
before re-joining Sojourn in Cai Lan. $3,500 per guest/double
occupancy.
The Khmer Temples of Angkor March
5 – March 7, 2011; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to
Sihanoukville, Cambodia. During this two-night journey,
guests will travel to Cambodia to explore the magnificent
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor, a sprawling, ornately
carved complex of temples, towers and Hindu paintings
that is unquestionably one of the world's greatest archaeological
sites. $1,650 per guest/double occupancy.
Chiang
Rai and the Hill Tribes of Thailand March 9 – March
12, 2011; Laem Chabang, Thailand to Singapore. Travelers
will explore the Golden Triangle, a picture-perfect
vision of verdant Thai rice terraces and orchid-clad
hillsides where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos
meet. The area is ripe with ancient temples, ruins,
art and local cultures, and guests will mingle with
the local tribes to learn their way of life in this
alluring region during this three-night excursion. $3,500
per guest/double occupancy.
Monumental Love:
The Taj Mahal March 19 – March 22, 2011; Cochin
to Mumbai, India. Built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan
as a tribute to his wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj
Mahal is the greatest monument to love the world has
ever known. This two-night excursion will visit Agra,
the Red Fort and the exquisite Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. $5,000 per guest/double occupancy.
Luxor and the Valley of the Kings April 4 –
April 5, 2011; Safaga, Egypt. From the Temple of
Luxor in ancient Thebes to the Valley of the Kings,
guests will survey most of Egypt’s desert UNESCO
World Heritage Site during this overnight tour. The
magnificent Luxor and Karnak Temples are explored and
guests journey across the Nile River to the Necropolis,
where among long-hidden tombs, guests will marvel at
the sophisticated sculpture, colorful depictions of
everyday life and the pantheon of gods and goddesses
worshipped by the early Egyptians. $499 per guest/double
occupancy.
On Jan. 5, 2011, Seabourn Sojourn
will embark on a world cruise from Los Angeles to London,
visiting 49 ports via the South Pacific, New Zealand,
around Western Australia, Indonesia and Southeast Asia,
India, Arabia and the Mediterranean. Fares for the full
111-day world cruise begin at $49,995 per person, based
on double occupancy, and include many valuable bonus
benefits and amenities, such as a pre-cruise Bon Voyage
event with dinner and luxury overnight in Los Angeles,
numerous special shoreside events and exclusive complimentary
shore excursions, Personal Valet luggage shipping service,
and shipboard credits of $2,500 per guest. Gala onboard
celebrations and special gifts will also be offered
to guests during the voyage.
For travelers
who cannot sail on the entire world cruise, shorter
segments from 16 to 69 days are available, several of
which also offer value-added benefits. Segments start
from $4,499 per person. For more information about the
Yachts of Seabourn, please contact Seven Seas Travel
at 888-798-9133.
 Windstar
Cruises Announces 2-For-1 Fares on Select Fall European
Sailings. Plus
Up to $750 Per Person Bonus Savings.
Windstar
Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury
yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves
of the world's most treasured destinations, offers exceptional
values to some of the most remarkable places in the
world with 2-for-1 fares on select fall European voyages
plus up to $750 per person bonus savings for new bookings
made now through September 5, 2010.
Wind
Surf 7-Day European Voyages:
October 17, 2010,
Venice to Venice Sailing: Venice, Italy (overnight);
Rovinj, Croatia; Opatija, Croatia; Trogir, Croatia;
Dubrovnik, Croatia; At Sea; and Venice, Italy from $1,299
(brochure fare $3,899) per person.
October
31, 2010, Rome to Barcelona Sailing: Rome, Italy; Portoferraio,
Italy; Porto-Vecchio, Italy; Alghero, Italy; Palma de
Mallorca, Spain; Mahon, Spain; and Barcelona, Spain
from $1,249 (brochure fare $3,799) per person.
November 7, 2010, Barcelona to Lisbon Sailing:
Barcelona, Spain; Tarragona, Spain; Ibiza, Spain; Almeria,
Spain; Malaga, Spain; Tangier, Morocco; At Sea; and
Lisbon, Portugal from $1,175 (brochure fare $3,799)
per person.
Wind Star 7-Day European Voyages:
October 23, 2010, Rome to Rome Sailing: Rome, Italy;
Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Amalfi, Italy; At Sea;
Cagliari, Italy; Porto Cervo, Italy; Porto-Vecchio,
France; and Rome, Italy from $1,249 (brochure fare $3,899)
per person.
October 30, 2010, Rome to Barcelona
Sailing: Rome, Italy; Port Cervo, Italy; Cagliari, Italy;
Carloforto, Italy; Mahon, Spain; Palma de Mallorca,
Spain; Valencia, Spain; and Barcelona, Spain from $1,249
(brochure fare $3,899) per person.
November
6, 2010, Barcelona to Lisbon Sailing: Barcelona, Spain;
Palma de Mallorca, Spain; At Sea; Almeria, Spain; Malaga,
Spain; Cadiz, Spain; Portimao, Portugal; and Lisbon,
Portugal from $1,199 (brochure fare $3,899) per person.
Wind Spirit 7-Day European Voyages:
October 30, 2010, Rome to Rome Sailing: Rome, Italy;
Port-Vecchio, France; Porto Cervo, Italy; At Sea; Amalfi,
Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Capri, Italy; Ischia, Italy;
and Rome, Italy from $1,249 (brochure fare $3,899) per
person.
November 6, 2010, Rome to Barcelona
Sailing: Rome, Italy; Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy;
Amalfi, Italy; At Sea; Carloforto, Italy; Mahon, Spain;
Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Barcelona, Spain from
$1,199 (brochure fare $3,899) per person.
Windstar's 2-for-1 Europe fares are not combinable with
any other promotions/programs or shipboard credit offers.
Offer is valid on new bookings made August 30, 2010,
through September 5, 2010. Offer valid for U.S. residents
only. 2-for-1 fares are per person, double occupancy
based on a 50 percent discount off brochure fares as
published in the 2010/2011 Windstar Cruises Sailing
Atlas.
Bonus Savings of up to $750 per person
on select sailings, is in addition to the 2-for-1 fare
and is valid on select sailings only. Rates shown are
for Category B staterooms, and once allotted staterooms
are sold, the promotion is closed for that sailing.
Government fees and taxes additional. Full payment is
required within 24 hours of making the booking. Offer
is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or modified
at the discretion of Windstar.
About Windstar
Cruises
Windstar Cruises operates three sailing
yachts known for their pampering without pretense and
their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded
coves of the world's most treasured destinations. Carrying
just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar
cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout
Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information
about Windstar sailing cruises including brochures,
rates and itineraries contact Seven Seas Travel today
at 888-798-9133.
 Over-Worked
Americans Give Up An Average Of 459 Million Vacation
Days Each Year. Now
Is A Good Time To “Cruise Them Or Lose Them,”
Says Royal Caribbean International.
Over-worked,
over-tired and stressed-out workers have one more thing
to worry about this coming Labor Day - how many vacation
days they could potentially be losing this year. And
if The President of the United States, who just returned
from a respite on Martha's Vineyard, can still find
time, then shouldn't everyone?
The fact that
people are not using all of their vacation days is well
documented and the statistics are staggering. According
to data released in a 2009 vacation study1, U.S. adults
who only receive an average of 13 vacation days per
year typically leave three days unused.
When
considering that the U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics
has recorded approximately 153 million employed Americans,
this means that each year an average of 459 million
vacation days are going unused in the United States.
Based on these overwhelming facts, Royal Caribbean is
encouraging consumers to use their hard-earned vacation
days and reminding them that even The President - a
person with arguably one of the hardest jobs in America
- needs to get away every now and then.
"Vacations
are not a luxury, they're a necessity," says John
de Graaf, Executive Director of Take Back Your Time,
a nonprofit organization that studies issues related
to overwork. "Men who take them are 32% less likely
to suffer from heart disease than those who don't. For
women, it's 50%. And women who don't take vacations
are more than twice as likely to suffer from depression.
Pass them by at your peril."
Championing
a "cruise them, don't lose them" message,
Royal Caribbean is giving vacation-deprived consumers
encouragement to leave their desks behind in favor of
some much needed rest and relaxation. The cruise line
has recently launched a compelling video - Vacation
Daze - showcasing the irony of letting vacation days
expire and the absurdity of this unfortunate reality.
The video can be seen at www.youtube.com/royalcaribbeanintl.
"The average American spends 261 days
commuting, filling out time sheets and wondering what's
for dinner. As Labor Day marks the end of summer, we
wanted to shine a spotlight on this perennial issue
and also remind people to take a much needed and hard-earned
break, even if it's just for a couple of days,"
states Betsy O'Rourke, SVP Marketing, Royal Caribbean
International.
A recent travel industry survey
suggests that close to half (45%) of working Americans
let hard-earned time-away go to waste in 2009; furthermore,
three-quarters (78%) anticipate leaving as many as 10
vacation days on the table in 2010. Why the annual commitment
to all work and no play? Most confess that coordinating
schedules with family and friends is too difficult (51%)
or they are not able to afford a "real vacation"
(40%); others admit it is less about personal situations
and more about work-life being too busy to enjoy time
away (47%). While consumers express pessimism towards
the possibility of a work escape, adults who choose
to go on vacation feel reconnected with the family (53%),
more productive and positive about their jobs (34%),
as well as the health benefits of being rested and rejuvenated.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise
brand with 21 ships currently in service and one under
construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour
land packages in Alaska, Dubai, Europe, Australia and
New Zealand, and South America. For additional information
or to make Royal Caribbean cruise reservations, call
Seven Seas Travel - Toll Free at 888-798-9133.
 Carnival
Magic’s Major Construction Milestone Marked with
Traditional Coin Ceremony. The magic continues!
In a time-honored maritime tradition, a ceremony recently
was held aboard Carnival Magic at the Fincantieri shipyard
in Monfalcone, Italy, during which a commemorative coin
was welded to the ship’s mast to mark a significant
construction milestone. Carnival Cruise Lines’
3,690-passenger “Fun Ship” is set to debut
in Europe May 1, 2011.
The ceremony –
which dates back to the ancient Romans who believed
that attaching coins to a ship provided divine protection
– signifies the successful completion of Carnival
Magic’s exterior outfitting. With just eight months
until the ship’s maiden voyage, work continues
on Carnival Magic’s dramatic interiors and unique
on-board innovations. Exclusive images and videos of
the coin ceremony, as well as Carnival Magic’s
fun and exciting features, are available at www.carnivalmagic.com,
a micro-site showcasing this spectacular “Fun Ship.”
Carnival Magic’s eventual year-round homeport
will be Galveston, Texas, so the ceremony had a strong
Texas presence with Carnival represented by Texas-based
Business Development Director Shannon McElroy, Mike
Julius, the company’s managing director of U.S.
sales, and Roberto Fazi, project manager for Carnival’s
corporate shipbuilding division. Fincantieri was represented
by Shipyard Director Carlo de Marco while Laura Buttignon,
a 35-year Fincantieri veteran whose father also was
employed by the shipbuilder, served as madrina, or godmother,
at the ceremony.
Following the coin ceremony,
thousands of talented artisans, craftsmen and workers
returned to work on Carnival Magic’s one-of-a-kind
features. Those include a new island-inspired
watering hole, RedFrog Pub, which features its own private-label
draught beer; Cucina del Capitano, an authentic trattoria
that brings the heritage of Carnival’s Italian
captains to the table, and an expansive outdoor sports
complex offering cruising’s first-ever ropes course,
outdoor weight-lifting area and gargantuan 500-gallon
water dump bucket - part of the splash-tastic WaterWorks
aqua park.
Spanning 15 fun-filled decks, Carnival
Magic will offer other guest-pleasing features such
as The Lanai, a wraparound promenade with whirlpools
that extend out over the ship’s sides; Ocean Plaza,
a stunning indoor/outdoor café and entertainment venue;
innovative accommodations including cove balcony cabins
closer to the waterline and two-bath, five-berth staterooms
that should hold particular appeal to families; a mouth-watering
array of formal and casual dining options offering cuisines
from around the world; the relaxing Serenity adults-only
retreat, and the Cloud 9 Spa, one of the largest health
and wellness facilities at sea.
Carnival Magic
is slated to debut in Europe with a series of seven
to 12 day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1 –
Oct. 16, 2011. Following a 16 day trans-Atlantic crossing,
Carnival Magic will launch seven-day Caribbean service
from Galveston, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011, becoming the port’s
largest year-round cruise ship. For additional information
or to make Carnival Magic cruise reservations, please
call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
MSC
European-Style Cruises In North America Offer Guests
the Best of Both Worlds. MSC Cruises is delighted
to announce a range of completely new cruise itineraries
for the season 2010-2011 to Canada and New England.
Sailing on MSC Poesia, which offers elegance, refined
luxury and the very latest in eco-technology to safeguard
the environment, MSC presents the very best of Canada
and New England. For MSC European guests, these cruises
give the opportunity to take in some of North America’s
highlight resorts, while cruising in a distinctly European
atmosphere aboard MSC Poesia. MSC Cruises’ North
American clientele, on the other hand, get the chance
to cruise close to home, experiencing Italian style
onboard MSC Poesia, providing them with the best of
both worlds: an entirely different onboard cruise experience
and a chance to see the glories of Canada, New England
and beyond.
Eastern Seaboard Itineraries
in 2010
7 night cruise: Quebec (Canada), Sydney
(Canada), Bar Harbor (Maine, USA), Boston (Massachusetts,
USA), Newport (Rhodes Island), New York City.
7
night cruise: New York City, Halifax (Canada), Sydney
(Canada), Charlottetown (Canada), Quebec (Canada).
7 night cruise: New York City, Halifax (Canada), Charlottetown
(Canada), Corner Brook (Newfoundland, Canada), Quebec
(Canada).
9 night cruise: Quebec (Canada), Sydney
(Canada), Boston (Massachusetts, USA), Newport (Rhodes
Island, USA), New York City, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale,
Florida, USA).
10 night cruise: New York City, Sydney
(Canada), Charlottetown (Canada), Quebec (Canada), Halifax
(Canada), Newport (Rhodes Island, USA), New York City.
A world of experiences in 2010
Canada
is a vast country of contrasts: bustling metropolitan
cities and breathtaking landscapes make this a truly
unique place to visit and our Canadian destinations
in 2010 include Quebec, Sydney, Halifax, Charlottetown
and Corner Brook in Newfoundland. Onshore excursions
include a trip to Halifax, where travellers can explore
Nova Scotia’s vibrant capital and discover the
city’s connections to the sinking of Titanic. Charlottetown
is renowned as the ‘City of Churches and Trees.
Highlights include a trip to the village of Avonlea,
where fictional characters from Anne of Green Gables’
stories come alive before our guests’ very eyes.
New England is famed for its autumnal palette of gold
and brown scenery, where white Georgian houses in picturesque
villages point to memories of a colonial past. Here
we offer excursions to places such as Boston, Bar Harbor
and Newport.
New for 2011
Next year,
an exciting addition to our Canada and New England cruise
itineraries will be a new port of call in Canada, namely
Saint John, New Brunswick. A beautiful harbour, Saint
John is the oldest incorporated city in Canada, offering
many sights and activities for our guests to explore.
MSC Poesia
The magnificent MSC Poesia
cruise ship is a masterpiece of modern cruise ship design
that combines refinement and elegance with the most
modern of facilities and an abundance of onboard activities.
With luxury at every turn, MSC Poesia offers new levels
of comfort, with spacious suites, most of which come
with their own balcony. Designed by Studio De Jorio
International, the hand of European artistry is everywhere
with sophisticated colour schemes and plush materials
that provide grandeur and ergonomy in equal measure.
Onboard highlights include the stunning Zebra Bar,
880 sqm of pure design, the Texas Poker Room, for those
that fancy a flutter, the Pigalle Lounge, with its distinctly
Parisian flavour, and the Kaito Sushi Bar, described
by the prestigious Berlitz Guide as “…an authentic
Japanese restaurant with an extensive, outstanding menu.”
MSC Aurea Spa offers a haven of relaxation and regeneration,
there is mini-golf for those looking to keep their eye
on the ball, and for children, the stone-age dinosaur-themed
children play area offers a never-ending source of fantastical
fun.
With 1,275 cabins, 5 restaurants, 11 bars
and lounges and simply too many activities to list here,
the MSC Poesia offers guests the best of all that is
Made in Italy, with more than a touch of the international.
For additional information or to make MSC Poesia reservations,
please call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
Captain
Giovanni Cutugno to Serve as Master of New Carnival
Magic. Captain Giovanni Cutugno, whose maritime
career has spanned more than three decades, has been
named master of Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship,
the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic.
The Torre
Faro, Sicily, native will oversee all operations of
the 3,690-passenger vessel which is set to debut in
Europe in May 2011. Carnival Magic marks the fourth
new Carnival ship that the highly experienced mariner
has introduced. He also served as the captain during
the inaugural seasons of the Carnival Inspiration in
1996, Carnival Spirit in 2001, and Carnival Valor in
2004.
Under Captain Cutugno’s command,
Carnival Magic will debut with a series of seven- to
12-day Mediterranean cruises from May 1 to Oct. 16,
2011. Following a 16-day transatlantic crossing, the
ship will launch year-round seven-day Caribbean service
from Galveston Nov. 14, 2011. As the line’s
newest “Fun Ship,” Carnival Magic will offer
a number of unique innovations, including Cucina del
Capitano, which brings the heritage of Carnival’s
captains to the table.
Archival photos of
Captain Cutugno and other Carnival captains will adorn
the walls of the 100-seat eatery. Other unique features
on the Carnival Magic include RedFrog Pub, an island-inspired
watering hole featuring its own private label beer;
and SportsSquare, an outdoor recreation complex with
the first-ever ropes course and outdoor weight-lifting
area. Among the many features within the ship’s
sprawling WaterWorks aqua park will be a 500-gallon
dump bucket – the largest at sea. For additional
information or to make Carnival Magic reservations,
please call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 Queen
Elizabeth’s Royal Spa Features Soothing and Revitalizing
Treatments. Cunard
Line’s tradition of providing guests with the ultimate
luxury experiences at sea continues on board with Queen
Elizabeth’s Royal Spa.
The tranquil 13,000
square-foot modern spa space features stunning décor
in line with the art deco style of the new Cunarder,
and includes two levels for treatment rooms, and fitness
and pool facilities.
Like her sister ships,
Queen Elizabeth’s spa offers a comprehensive health
and wellness programme with a spectacular Hydrotherapy
Pool and Thermal Suite, with the new addition of the
Royal Bath House, the centerpiece for the ultimate spa
experience. Inspired by holistic, relaxing and stress-relieving
treatments drawn from disciplines around the world,
the Royal Spa will offer among the most luxurious and
exotic treatments available in any spa resort, including
being the first spa at sea to provide Remède
products and treatments.
In addition to the
highly-sought after features of the Thermal Suite and
Hydrotherapy Pool, a new fixture on board Queen Elizabeth’s
Royal Spa is the Royal Bath House. This covered space
is a social relaxation area that includes both the Thermal
Suite and Hydrotherapy Pool, all adjacent to the main
outdoor pool on Deck 9. Plush robes, slippers and other
amenities will be provided.
Day passes are available
for those guests not booking a treatment. Beyond the
aquatics area of the spa, guests can enjoy time to rejuvenate
and revitalize with treatments provided by one of Cunard’s
many high-end partners. Queen Elizabeth will be the
first spa at sea to offer Remède service, including
Customized Facials and Massages, as well as Remède and
Elemis spa products.
Additionally, other
new treatments and partners include:
*
Royal Spa Self-Scrub: A customized, do-it-yourself experience,
guests work with the spa’s mixologist to create
a special blend of exfoliants that buff away dead skin
and impurities.
* Cellulite Reduction and Revitalizing
Leg Therapy by Ionithermie: This detoxifying, firming
and toning treatment helps to eliminate toxins using
faradic and galvanic stimuli. Alleviates water retention
and also guarantees inches will be lost after just one
treatment.
"As the world awaits Queen
Elizabeth, our guests are eager to experience all the
lavish amenities featured on board, including the rituals
of luxury found in the Royal Spa,” said Peter Shanks,
president of Cunard Line. “From couples treatment
suites and new treatments, to adventurous fitness classes
and premium spa product partners, Cunard continues to
offer White Star Service as it provides the ultimate
in rejuvenation at sea.
The Royal Spa also
includes a full-service hair and nail salon using award-winning
products and providing the latest services, such as:
* Phyto Hair Cocktails: Phyto is a botanical blend
of powerful plants and herbs that help repair the structure
of the hair and nourish the scalp and follicles, roots
and ends. Choose from Phyto Thirst Quencher, Rescue
Remedy,Botanical Bliss or Colour Guard
* bliss®
Poetic Waxing: Bliss’s famous “painless as
possible” waxing removes unwanted hair from (practically)
anywhere
* Award-winning St. Tropez Sunless Tanning
for the face and body
* Brazilian Blowout: The Brazilian
Blowout leaves hair smooth, healthy and frizz-free for
up to 12 weeks without the use of damaging chemicals.
Through the use of a proprietary polymer system, this
treatment actually enhances the condition of the hair
by creating a protective protein layer around the hair
shaft to eliminate frizz and smooth the cuticle, improving
the health of the hair.
Refreshing Fitness
For health-focused guests, Queen Elizabeth’s fitness
centre includes a fully appointed work-out facility
and aerobics studio featuring signature fitness classes,
including:
* Walkvest®: Burn extra calories
while wearing a weighted vest (two - 16 lbs.) while
walking.
* Walking Poles: Turn walking into a total
body workout, engaging every muscle with each stride.
Classes show how the use of the poles can enhance “walking”
experiences to help improve stamina, posture and balance.
* Aqua Tone: This special class incorporates movements
with various types of water equipment, such as dumbbells,
floats, aqua gloves and fins. The water resistance helps
build muscles without overexertion.
Wellness
Centre
To promote overall wellbeing, the Royal
Spa also offers services using the ancient traditions
of Chinese medicines and Ayurvedic techniques. A professionally
trained acupuncturist, registered by the British Acupuncture
Council, offers six different treatments to assist in
alleviating stress or pain, or helping with weight loss.
Ayurveda (Sanskrit for the Science of Life) is an ancient
Indian health care system and offers a wellness plan
that includes guests’ preferred type of exercise,
dietary choices and even way of life/hobbies around
their primary “dosha” (constitution): Pitta
(water and fire), Vata (ether and air) or Kapha (water
and earth).
Three popular balancing Ayurvedic
therapies are offered that will relax and rejuvenate
the spirit, whatever the dosha. And since a key part
of health and wellness is education, seminars from managing
arthritis to metabolism enhancement will be offered
throughout each voyage. For more information and to
book a voyage aboard Queen Elizabeth, please call Seven
Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
Carnival
Announces Unique and Magic Ways Guests Get In on the
Fun On Its Newest ‘Fun Ship,’ Carnival Magic.
With 249 days until its newest “Fun Ship,”
the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, sets sail, Carnival
Cruise Lines today revealed a peek through the porthole
at some of the ship’s unique spaces and fun features.
From Carnival’s first-ever pub, featuring
its own private label beer, to an authentic trattoria
that brings the heritage of Carnival’s Italian
captains to the table, to an expansive outdoor sports
complex featuring the first-ever ropes course and outdoor
weight-lifting area on a cruise ship – along with
cruising’s first gargantuan water dump bucket –
Carnival Magic is destined to be the most innovative
“Fun Ship” to date.
Carnival Magic
offers vacationers a variety of innovative and inspirational
opportunities for fun, relaxation and enjoyment including:
RedFrog Pub – An exciting new concept,
the RedFrog Pub offers a laid-back Caribbean vibe with
island-inspired snacks and drinks, including ThirstyFrog
Red, a private-label draught beer brewed especially
for Carnival Magic. Located on Promenade Deck 5, the
100-seat indoor/outdoor pub is a convivial place where
guests can relax, meet new friends, sip a frozen cocktail,
and nosh on Bahamian conch salad, grouper fingers, firecracker
Jamaican chicken wings, and other Caribbean favorites.
RedFrog Pub will also offer tastings of top-rated rums
of the Caribbean and a collection of the region’s
best beers. With a nod to Carnival Magic’s Caribbean
itineraries which kick off in November 2011, RedFrog
Pub’s décor is decidedly British West Indies meets
Key West, evoking the warmth and friendliness of a local
island watering hole. Nautical-themed interiors with
rich wood details, vibrant tile work, portholes, and
images of ships at sea, along with foosball and shuffleboard
tables and a jukebox, complete the playful pub atmosphere.
Cucina del Capitano (“The Captain’s
Kitchen”) — An homage to Carnival’s
rich Italian lineage – all of the line’s captains
are Italian and many Carnival ships, including Carnival
Magic, are built in Italy – Cucina del Capitano
is a delicious dinner-time option with made-to-order
Italian favorites in comfortable, relaxed surroundings.
Here, guests can dine on hand-made pastas, risotto and
fresh-from-the-oven Italian specialties – many
served family style – complemented by a wine list
specializing in Italian vintages.
Many of the
dishes and recipes were hand-selected by Carnival’s
captains. Framed archival photographs, many from the
captains’ personal collections, table arrangements
that invite conversation, wood-beam ceilings, and ornate
wrought ironwork recreate the ambiance of a cozy Italian
home, while warm, attentive service makes diners feel
like they’re part of the family. Truly an unforgettable
dining experience. Dinner carries a nominal fee. During
the day, the space is utilized as a casual made-to-order
pasta bar with items offered on a complimentary basis.
SportsSquare – Sports junkies rejoice.
Taking Carnival’s popular outdoor recreation
areas to an entirely new level is SportsSquare, which
features the cruise industry’s first ropes course
where thrill-seeking guests can traverse across nets
suspended above Spa Deck 12 and offering spectacular
views to the sea nearly 150 feet below.
Surrounded
by an eighth-mile jogging track, the expansive SportsSquare
complex also includes the first outdoor weightlifting
area on a cruise ship, along with Carnival’s first
two-level miniature golf course, a Vita exercise course,
a lighted multi-purpose court for basketball, volleyball
and soccer, along with ping pong and foosball tables.
A full bar with a large flat-screen display is available
for those who just want to relax and check out the sports
action in the area or on TV.
Carnival Magic’s
other top-deck amenities include the splash-tastic WaterWorks
aqua park that will offer even more thrills with an
exhilarating “Twister” spiral water slide,
as well as the new Aqua Play splash park designed for
youngsters and their families, featuring a gigantic,
500-gallon “dump bucket” and a host of other
wet ’n wild features. Resort-style pool areas offer
the perfect venue for catching rays or some Zs.
Cruisers will also find a variety of signature
“Fun Ship” elements on Carnival Magic, including:
Expansive Family-Friendly Spaces – The ultimate
family vacation, Carnival Magic offers more than 19,000
square feet of space catering to kids and families,
including dedicated spaces for children (Camp Carnival),
’tweens (Circle “C”) and teens (Club
O2), with organized activities and enthusiastic counselors
for each group.
Serenity – The ideal
space for some adult-only “me” time, Serenity
offers comfortable chaise lounges and chairs, hammocks,
colorful umbrellas and two jumbo-sized whirlpools, along
with full bar service specializing in frothy, icy concoctions.
Cloud 9 Spa – Guests in the mood
for a workout or some personal pampering can visit this
stunning and sophisticated facility. At the Cloud 9
Spa, troubles melt away as guests soak in the soothing
thalassotherapy pool, unwind in the elaborate thermal
suite or just take in the elegant, serene surroundings.
Stateroom Innovations – With 1,845
staterooms, Carnival Magic offers a wide array of accommodation
types, including two-bathroom/five-berth cabins and
connecting staterooms that hold particular appeal to
families; cove balcony cabins closer to the water line;
and spa staterooms providing special access and benefits.
Food, Glorious Food – Whether
its authentic delicacies from India and China, a full-service
meal in an elegant, two-level dining room, a late-night
slice of pizza, an exquisite meal in a classic American
steakhouse, or just a burger by the pool, Carnival Magic
offers a tantalizing array of international cuisines
sure to satisfy every palate.
Dazzling
Entertainment – From a laugh-out-loud Punchliner
Comedy Club, live bands along the promenade, Superstar
Live Karaoke where guests sing to channel their inner
rock star fronting a four-piece band, or dazzling production
shows incorporating the latest special effects, nights
are truly special aboard Carnival Magic.
Carnival’s
Seaside Theatre – This 270-square-foot LED
screen and poolside seating is the perfect spot for
guests to sit back, relax and watch classic and first-run
movies, sporting events, news, concerts and other programming,
either during the day or night.
Ocean Plaza
– A place to see and be seen, Ocean Plaza is
a stunning indoor/outdoor café and live entertainment
venue where guests can dance to live music and enjoy
specialty coffees and sweets – even freshly made
milkshakes. Full bar service, specializing in martinis
and mojitos, is also available.
The Lanai
– Taking the traditional cruise-ship promenade
to new heights, The Lanai is a half-mile, open-air promenade
encircling Promenade Deck 5. Here, guests can stroll
while enjoying spectacular ocean vistas, curl up with
a good book, soak up some sun in a comfortable deck
chair, or relax in one of four cantilevered whirlpools
that extend out over the ship’s sides.
Fun Hub – Available on any guests’
Internet-connected laptop or at dozens of convenient
locations throughout the ship is the Fun Hub, a social
network and comprehensive shipboard intranet portal
that provides access to a variety of information on
Carnival Magic’s services, facilities and daily
activities. Carnival Magic will also offer bow-to-stern
Wi-Fi and cell phone service.
Carnival Magic’s
many unique innovations are highlighted in an interactive
micro-site, www.carnivalmagic.com, which features a
full-screen virtual tour, exclusive images and videos,
construction footage and more. The site also contains
details on a series of unique and exciting contests
and promotions Carnival will offer for fun fans to add
their personal touches on Carnival Magic leading up
to the ship’s maiden voyage.
The 3,690-passenger
Carnival Magic is slated to debut in Europe with a series
of seven- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating
May 1 – Oct. 16, 2011. Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic
crossing, Carnival Magic will launch seven-day Caribbean
service from Galveston, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011, becoming
the port’s largest year-round cruise ship. For
additional information or to make Carnival Magic reservations,
please call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 Have
the Slime of Your Life on Two Exclusive Nickelodeon
All Access NCL Norwegian Cruises. Guests
who book now receive up to $250 in on-board credit and
half off deposit.
Norwegian Cruise Line and
Nickelodeon are offering the ultimate family cruise
vacation with two "Nickelodeon All Access Cruises"
setting sail in 2011. These special Nickelodeon-themed
cruises give guests access to seven days of slime-filled
entertainment all day, every day aboard Norwegian Jewel,
sailing from New York on February 20, 2011; and on the
cruise line's newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian
Epic, sailing from Barcelona on July 24, 2011.
Families
who book an All Access Cruise between August 23, 2010
and September 13, 2010 will receive a special offer
of up to $250 in on-board credits, based on stateroom
category; and half off the deposit (excluding the Garden
Villa and other suite categories).
Norwegian
and Nickelodeon have partnered to provide families with
a once-in-a-lifetime cruise vacation that is all Nickelodeon,
all week long. Exclusive Nickelodeon family programming
featured on the two "Nickelodeon All Access"
cruises includes:
- Ultimate sliming
experience offers a chance for the whole family to get
slimed together.
- Meet & greets with the
stars of Nickelodeon's hottest live-action shows. Special
cruise guests have included stars from iCarly, True
Jackson VP, and the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants.
- Special viewings and premieres of never-before-seen
episodes of Nickelodeon's hit TV shows like iCarly,
Victorious and SpongeBob SquarePants.
- Meet
& greets with some of your favorite Nickelodeon
characters including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the
Explorer, Aang the Last Airbender and many more!
- Nickelodeon's signature messy game shows like Slime
Time LIVE! and poolside events.
- Breakfast
with Nickelodeon characters every day of the cruise.
The non-stop excitement and thrills of the "Nickelodeon
All Access Cruise" are only available on: Norwegian
Jewel sailing President's Day holiday, February 20,
2011, round-trip from New York to Orlando (Port Canaveral),
Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's
private island or Norwegian Epic departing on July 24,
2011 from Barcelona with ports of call including Florence/Pisa
(Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples, Italy;
and Palma, Majorca, Spain. Starting rates are from $899
per person double occupancy on Norwegian Jewel and from
$1299 per person double occupancy on Norwegian Epic.
The on-board credit limited time offer includes $250
per stateroom when sailing in a Garden Villa, available
on Norwegian Jewel; $150 for suites; $100 for mini-suites
and deluxe balcony staterooms; $75 for balcony staterooms;
$50 for ocean view and $25 for inside staterooms.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in
its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand
for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by
putting kids first in everything it does. The company
includes television programming and production in the
United States and around the world, plus consumer products,
online, recreation, books, and feature films. Nickelodeon's
U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million
households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable
network for 16 consecutive years. .
About
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
is the innovator in cruise travel with a 44-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, Norwegian has 11
purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests
the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on
some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea.
Norwegian's largest and most innovative Freestyle
Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010.
Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of
Blue Man Group, debuting for the first time at sea on
Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line
of Legends in Concert, Second City Comedy Troupe, Howl
at the Moon Dueling Pianos, Gibson Guitar, and Nickelodeon,
the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque
Dreams" & Dinner is also featured on board
Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea
under a big top. To book one of the only two "Nickelodeon
All Access Cruises" in 2011, please call Seven
Seas Travel today at 888-798-9133.
 Royal
Caribbean Expands Relationships With Internationally
Acclaimed Artist Romero Britto.
Allure of the Seas to Feature First Britto Store at
Sea.
As Royal Caribbean International prepares
for the December 2010 launch of Allure of the Seas,
the world's next largest and most revolutionary cruise
ship, the global cruise line continues to unveil surprising
new features and amenities that will distinguish Allure
from her sister-ship, Oasis of the Seas.
After
announcing an integrated partnership with DreamWorks
Animations and Chicago: The Musical as the ship's signature
show, as well as a line-up of new dining, entertainment
and shopping options, Royal Caribbean is pleased to
share details of yet another new venue that will call
Allure of the Seas home - the very first Britto Concept
store at sea by pop culture icon, Romero Britto.
Royal Caribbean has enjoyed a long relationship
with Britto, which began in 2003 when the artist designed
the pool deck for the debut of Mariner of the Seas.
Marking the next evolution of this partnership, the
Britto Store onboard Allure of the Seas will be an engaging
and interactive space for guests to enjoy the color,
innovation and spirit which encapsulates Britto's art.
The store will be located in the Central Park neighborhood
and will display artwork along with smaller collectible
pieces and sculptures of all sizes. A unique sculpture
boasting Britto's well-known butterflies will grace
the gardens of Central Park directly in front of the
store, welcoming guests and providing a cheerful photo
opportunity.
Britto will be creating two original
pieces exclusive to Royal Caribbean for guests to purchase,
including a custom painting which will be available
as canvas Giclees, as well as a Royal Caribbean-inspired
teddy bear. The artist also will attend Allure of the
Seas' inaugural sailing on December 5, 2010, providing
Britto fans a unique opportunity to interact with the
artist in painting parties, autograph sessions and meet
and greet events.
Within the store, which will
be outfitted in black and white as a contrast to Britto's
exceptionally colorful artwork, guests will have the
opportunity to learn about the artist himself from a
documentary of Britto's accomplishments as well as participate
in wine and champagne events, art discussions, and other
activities related to Romero Britto.
A wide
array of artwork, posters, giftware, collectibles and
luggage will be available for purchase, ranging from
original and limited edition Giclees, to tableware such
as teapots and coasters; collectible figurines and sculptures;
stationery; umbrellas; children's books; pet toys and
much more. A modern day pop culture icon, Romero Britto
creates contemporary masterpieces that evoke a spirit
of hope and convey a sense of warmth.
Embraced
by the international community, Britto's paintings and
sculptures are currently featured on five continents
in more than 100 galleries worldwide. His original artwork,
dubbed "the art of healing," brings together
bright colors and playful themes with compositional
elements of Cubism. Britto's artwork conveys an honesty
that reflects his desire to use colors which exude happiness.
His belief that "art should be accessible to all,
and enjoyed by people of all ages" is a key reason
his artwork appeals to art lovers ages eight to eighty.
Allure of the Seas shares the title of the world's
largest and most revolutionary cruise ship with sister-ship
Oasis of the Seas. An architectural marvel at sea, she
will span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered
tons, carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature
2,700 staterooms. Allure of the Seas will tout Royal
Caribbean's exclusive neighborhood concept of seven
distinct themed areas, which will 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 alternate a Western
Caribbean with an Eastern Caribbean seven-night itinerary
from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale,
Fla.
Royal Caribbean International is a global
cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and
one under construction. The line also offers unique
cruisetour land packages in Alaska, Dubai, Europe, Australia
and New Zealand, and South America. For additional information
or to make reservations, call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.
 South
Africa's Cape Grace Hotel Added to Crystal's 2011 Pre/Post-Cruise
Program. Cape Town’s chic, contemporary Cape
Grace Hotel is now available as a pre or post-cruise
“Classic Plus” Hotel Program with Crystal
Cruises’ ultra-luxury cruises to and from South
Africa in the spring 2011.
With “Classic
Plus,” Crystal guests can enjoy five-star hotel
accommodations before or after their cruise, private
car transfers, meet and assist arrangements, porterage,
full breakfast and other perks at destinations around
the world.
Like Crystal Cruises, the
Cape Grace Hotel has been named to Condé Nast Traveler’s
prestigious Gold List numerous times and is renowned
for its personalized service. The Cape Grace “Classic
Plus” Hotel Program is available for stays of one,
two or three nights following Crystal Serenity’s
March 29 voyage from Mumbai to Cape Town, and before
the April 17 cruise from Cape Town to London. Both
cruises are segments of Crystal Cruises epic 2011 World
Cruise. An alternative “Classic” Hotel
Program at the charming colonial Mount Nelson Hotel
is also available.
“Crystal’s hotel
programs are designed to offer travelers a seamless
vacation experience with a level of style, service,
and luxury similar to their Crystal shipboard,”
says John Stoll, Crystal’s vice president, land
and port operations. “The programs also deliver
a high degree of comfort, as guests know that Crystal
is giving great attention to arrangements and details
that ease travel in foreign destinations.”
Situated
in the heart of Cape Town’s wharf area, the Cape
Grace offers an ideal location for touring, dining,
shopping and even luxury yacht charters. Besides
its warm, attentive service, the luxury property features
a full spa and bars and restaurants offering innovative
menus complemented by premium local wine selections.
Guests can further extend the March 29 voyage
from Mumbai to Cape Town with a three-night, pre-cruise
land program visiting the Taj Mahal for a fraction of
the valued fare. The April 17 itinerary from Cape
Town to London focuses heavily on West Africa’s
heritage. Rates for the Cape Grace “Classic
Plus” program begin at $550 per person, double
occupancy, for the first night of stay, with reduced
rates available for additional nights. For more information
about Crystal Cruises, please call Seven Seas Travel
at 888-798-9133.
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