• Carnival Glory Returns to Service From Miami Following Extensive Refurbishment
• Crystal Cruises Adds Black Sea Voyages in 2010 with Maiden Call in Ukraine
• New Crystal Cruises Boutique Shore Excursions Highlight European Destinations In 2010
• Norwegian Cruise Line Sails Into Summer With New Deployment For 2011/2012
• More Than 65 Culinary Experts For Holland America 2010 Culinary Arts Center Program
• VIP Access to 150th British Open with Crystal's New Land Option
• Princess Cruises Debuts 20 New Shore Excursions in Alaska This Summer
• New Crystal Serenity Cruise Culminates in Venetian Fireworks
• Carnival Fascination Returns to Jacksonville Following Evolutions of Fun Upgrades
• A Mediterranean Culinary Adventure Awaits on Windstar's Wind Surf
• New Yachts, Guests & Special Offers Drive Record Booking For Seabourn
• Silversea Cruises Takes You Behind the Scenes With Acclaimed Film Professionals
• Cunard Line Launches TransAtlantic Special Relationship Speaker Series Programme
• New Ship Disney Dream Brings Fun in the Sun & Water Play For Little Ones

Carnival Glory Returns to Service Following Extensive Multi-Million-Dollar Refurbishment. The 2,974-passenger Carnival Glory has resumed Caribbean service from Miami following a multi-million-dollar renovation that added a host of new facilities and features.

Eighteen new balconies were also incorporated onto existing ocean view staterooms and a new Mongolian wok venue was added to the casual poolside restaurant. Bow-to-stern Wi-Fi access was added, as well. From February to May, Carnival Glory operates seasonal 7 day cruises from Miami, alternating weekly to the eastern and western Caribbean. 7 day eastern Caribbean cruises visit Half Moon Cay, St. Thomas, San Juan and Grand Turk, while the western route features Grand Cayman, Isla Roatan, Belize and Cozumel. The ship will then be deployed to New York where it will offer a series of 4  and 5 day Atlantic Canada voyages from June 6 – September 6, 2010, followed by a series of 7 day Canada/New England cruises, from September 11 – October 9.

New Seaside Theatre
Located poolside on Lido Deck is the Carnival Glory’s new “Seaside Theatre,” a massive 270-square-foot LED screen displaying movies, concerts, sporting events, and other programming, including the popular “Morning Show” hosted by the ship’s cruise director. Utilizing the same technology featured in large stadiums and New York’s Times Square, the state-of-the-art entertainment system includes a 70,000-watt sound system, providing concert quality sound, even outdoors.

New Balcony Accommodations
During dry dock, 18 new balconies were added to existing Spa Deck accommodations, creating spacious 220-square-foot verandah staterooms. They are conveniently located next to the ship’s 14,500-square-foot “Spa Carnival” facility offering sophisticated exercise equipment, expansive workout facilities and a variety of soothing European-style treatments. With the addition of these newly reconfigured staterooms, nearly 40 percent of the Carnival Glory’s 1,487 cabins now feature private balconies.

New Adults-Only Retreat
Another popular feature added during the dry dock is Serenity, a two-level adults-only retreat located forward on Sun Deck and Sky Deck. Designed as an oceangoing oasis for relaxation, with decorative latticework and teak-style decking, this area features different styles of seating, including shaded sun loungers and hammocks, a full bar, and two oversized whirlpools.

Circle “C” Facility for 12- to 14-Year-Olds
A new Circle “C” facility catering to 12- to 14-year-olds has been added as part of the line’s unique offerings for kids. The center features a high-tech sound and lighting system, plasma-screen TVs displaying movies and music videos, and gaming pods with the latest video games and consoles.

Dining Enhancements
A new Mongolian wok option was added to the Carnival Glory’s Red Sail casual restaurant located poolside on Lido Deck. At the new venue, guests can select their favorite meat, sauce, vegetables and other ingredients and watch as a chef creates their custom-designed stir fry dish right before their eyes. Additionally, the Golden dining room, located forward, was reconfigured for Your Time Dining providing guests the option of open seating between 5:45 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly. For more information and Carnival Glory reservations, call Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.

Crystal Cruises Adds Black Sea Voyages in 2010 with Maiden Call in Ukraine. The Black Sea cruises are an exotic counterpart to the more familiar Mediterranean hot spots.

Due to strong demand, luxury specialist Crystal Cruises has expanded its 2010 European cruise collection to include two Black Sea voyages this summer. The two new itineraries feature a maiden visit to Sevastopol, Ukraine, as well as calls in Greece, Italy, Bulgaria and Turkey. Steeped in artistic, military and architectural history, the 12 day cruises sail from Venice to Istanbul on July 19 and August 24 aboard the award-winning Crystal Serenity.

“The Black Sea cruises are an exotic counterpart to the more familiar Mediterranean hot spots,” says Bill Smith, senior vice president, sales and marketing. “These destinations have a mysterious charm and tremendous historic value that places them high on travelers’ lists of must-see places.” Beginning with overnight stays in Venice, the itineraries visit Katakolon (birthplace of the Olympics) and Navplion, Greece; Nesebur, Bulgaria; Yalta, Sevastopol and Odessa, Ukraine; and conclude with an overnight stay in Istanbul, Turkey. Other highlights include the sail from Venice, the cruise through the Dardanelles and the Bosporus Straits.

Distinguished speakers on world affairs, architecture, science and culture add rich dimension to the voyages, including Newsweek’s Chief Political Correspondent, Senior Editor and Deputy Washington Bureau Chief, Howard Fineman; Dr. David Davenport, Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University and former president of Pepperdine University; and Dr. Bulent Atalay, a compelling expert on art, archaeology and the sciences.

Two-for-one cruise fares start at $6,470 per person, and include $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard credits. Free air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways – Business Class air for Penthouse guests – is also included.

Crystal Cruises is the winner of the hospitality industry’s most coveted awards, including being voted World’s Best Large Cruise Line by the readers of Travel + Leisure (for 14 consecutive years), Best Large-Ship Cruise Line by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine (for 16 years), and Crystal Serenity is the highest rated large ship in the latter magazine’s February 2010 issue. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact Seven Seas Travel.

Crystal Adventures Highlight European Destinations From New Heights & Depths in 2010. This spring through fall in Europe, luxury specialist Crystal Cruises is rolling out nearly 800 boutique shore excursions, dozens of which are brand new.

From soaring above Stockholm in a hot air balloon to scuba diving off the coast of turkey, distinctive Crystal Adventures augment Crystal’s 32 destination-rich itineraries exploring the Mediterranean, Baltic and Black Seas, North Cape, Canary Islands, Middle East and British Isles.

*NEW* Navigate the corniches of the French Riviera in a private Maserati, Lamborghini or Ferrari (Cannes)
*NEW* From a private box, sample Scotch whiskeys and view the pageantry of the Military Tattoo (Edinburgh)
*NEW* Take an exclusive palace cooking lesson with an Italian Countess (Venice)
Thrill to a high-speed sailing adventure in a state-of-the-art professional ocean racer (from Berlin)
Enjoy a rugged bicycle and 4x4 exploration of the lava fields and Mt. Etna (from Taormina)

“Each year we strive to offer meaningful experiences ashore that satisfy our guests’ appetite for diverse adventures,” says John Stoll, Crystal Cruises’ director, land programs. “The breadth of options guests have in each destination is truly staggering – whether one is seeking cultural enrichment or more active pursuits.”

From April through November 2010, the ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity offer seven- to 15-day itineraries departing from Athens, Greece; Copenhagen, Denmark; Istanbul, Turkey; London, England; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Rome, Italy; Stockholm, Sweden; Barcelona, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal and Venice, Italy.  Two-for-one double occupancy fares in Europe begin at $3,680 per person. Also included are up to $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard credits, and complimentary air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways – even Business Class air for Penthouse guests.

Discerning travelers voted Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony the top two highest rated large ships in the world, as featured in the February 2010 issue of Condé Nast Traveler magazine, among many other distinguished honors. For more information and Crystal reservations, please call Seven Seas Travel - 888-798-9133.

Norwegian Cruise Line Sails Into Summer With New Deployment For 2011/2012. Deployment includes several firsts, including homeporting in Copenhagen; deploying Norwegian Gem to Bermuda; and sailing year-round from New Orleans.

Norwegian Cruise Line announced its 2011/2012 summer deployment and itineraries with highlights including a new homeport in Europe; more capacity and newer ships to Bermuda from the Northeast; and a year-round commitment to New Orleans. In a first for the line in Europe, Norwegian Sun will homeport in Copenhagen offering 9 day cruises to the Baltic. Continuing its ongoing commitment to Bermuda, the company is deploying Norwegian Gem from New York for the first time and Norwegian Dawn from Boston. In addition, Norwegian Spirit will homeport year-round in New Orleans, home to the 2010 Super Bowl Champions the New Orleans Saints, representing the first time the company will homeport a ship year-round in the Crescent City.

"Our summer 2011 deployment is filled with exciting itineraries and new choices, so that our guests can enjoy Freestyle Cruising to a variety of destinations around the world during the popular summer travel season," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's CEO. In the Baltic, Norwegian Sun will sail from Copenhagen, Denmark, a new homeport for Norwegian, on 15 nine-day Baltic Capitals cruises. Ports of call include: Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; an overnight in St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm (Nynashamn), Sweden.

In addition to Norwegian Epic's deployment from Barcelona to the Western Mediterranean in the summer of 2011, Norwegian Jade, which currently sails year-round in Europe, will replace Norwegian Gem sailing from Venice on a seven-day Greek Isles cruise with ports of call including: Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos and Olympia (Katakolon), Greece. The ship will also sail a 7 day Adriatic, Greece and Turkey cruise with ports of call including: Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Izmir), Turkey and Split, Croatia. These sailings can be booked back-to-back for a 14 day cruise with no port repetition sailing to Greece, Italy, Croatia and Turkey.

Norwegian will continue its commitment to Bermuda, sailing two ships from the Northeast to Bermuda weekly from May through October calling on King's Wharf. Norwegian Gem, one of Norwegian's newest and largest Freestyle Cruising ships carrying 2,400 guests, will replace Norwegian Dawn sailing from New York on Sundays to Bermuda, staying for three full days. In Boston, the 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will homeport there for the first time, replacing Norwegian Spirit which sailed from Boston for two years. The ship will depart on Fridays with three days in Bermuda.

For the first time in Norwegian's history, the line will homeport year-round in the Big Easy with Norwegian Spirit sailing weekly 7 day Western Caribbean cruises from April 2011 through April 2012. The 2,000-passenger Norwegian Spirit will depart New Orleans every Sunday. Ports of call include Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; and Belize City, Belize. Norwegian has homeported cruise ships in New Orleans seasonally since 2003 with Norwegian Spirit there in the winter since 2007. Norwegian Jewel, carrying 2,400 passengers, will continue her year-round deployment in New York sailing 7 day Bahamas & Florida cruises departing on Saturdays through April 2012. Ports of call include: Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida; Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian's private island) and Nassau, Bahamas. Norwegian Jewel will offer Nickelodeon" at Sea, exclusively on Norwegian Cruise Line, with Nickelodeon-themed family programming on all of its sailings. Guests will have the opportunity to experience character meet and greets; interactive game shows; and more.

Also from New York beginning in December 2011 through April 2012, Norwegian Gem will sail a series of weekly 7 day Bahamas & Florida cruises, departing on Sundays, with stops in Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida; Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian's private island) and Nassau, Bahamas.

In Alaska, both Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Star will return, sailing 7 day Glacier Bay and Sawyer Glacier cruises respectively, both from Seattle, Washington. Norwegian Pearl's weekly Glacier Bay cruises depart on Sundays and will sail through Alaska's Inside Passage with ports of call including: Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. Norwegian Pearl will also sail a 7 day Alaska & Sawyer Glacier cruise from Vancouver to Seattle on May 8, 2011 and a seven-day Glacier Bay cruise from Seattle to Vancouver on September 18, 2011.

Norwegian Star's weekly Sawyer Glacier cruises depart on Saturdays sailing through Alaska's Inside Passage with ports of call including: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, Alaska; and Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Norwegian Star will also sail a 7 day Sawyer Glacier cruise from Vancouver to Seattle on May 14, 2011 and a 7 day Sawyer Glacier from Seattle to Vancouver on September 17, 2011.

For the shorter cruise option, Norwegian Sky will continue sailing 3 and 4 day cruises to the Bahamas year-round from Miami through April 20, 2012. The three-day Bahamas cruise departs Fridays and includes stops in Nassau, Bahamas and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island in the Bahamas. On Mondays, the ship departs Miami on a 4 day Bahamas cruise with stops in Grand Bahama Island, Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island; and Nassau, Bahamas. To book one of these new itineraries, guests should contact Seven Seas Travel.

More Than 65 Culinary Experts Take Center Stage for Holland America Line's 2010 Culinary Arts Center Program. HAL showcases its own culinary stars on more than 500 annual cruises.

Taking top chefs from kitchens and restaurants all around the world and inviting them aboard Holland America Line ships, the line’s Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine, continues to expand in popularity. This year, more than 65 guest culinary experts are participating in the hugely successful program. Culinary notables this season include Bravo-TV’s “Top Chef” contender, Nikki Cascone; Mark Bittman, food columnist for The New York Times and award-winning cookbook author; and Keith Coburn, television personality of the hit series, “Deadliest Catch.”

“Because the Culinary Arts Center is such a hit, we will continue to expand the program and provide our guests with the enriching culinary experiences that have made it so successful,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “For those who love to cook and cruise, there is no more enjoyable vacation experience than taking over a fully stocked and equipped professional kitchen with an expert chef as guide.”

Holland America Line’s award-winning celebrity chefs and experts in the 2010 season include:

VIP Access to 150th British Open with Crystal's New Land Option. On board, golfers can perfect their own game in the ship’s dedicated driving and putting areas, and get tips from Crystal’s onboard PGA Pros Denise and Gordon Walker.

For travel-savvy golf enthusiasts this summer, Crystal Cruises is introducing an ultra-exclusive opportunity to be a part of the ultimate competition in the birthplace of the game. During the new three-night Extended Land Program from Edinburgh, Crystal guests will be treated to VIP access and the highest level of service at the 150th British Open Championship at famed St. Andrew’s Golf Club, before joining Crystal Serenity’s July 19 Black Sea voyage to Istanbul.

Besides the action on the links during the final two days of the championship, participants will enjoy full access to a private hospitality area with refreshments and open bar throughout the day, three-course lunch and traditional English afternoon tea. Arrangements include five-star hotel accommodations in Edinburgh, a private driver and air transportation from Edinburgh to Venice. “To attend such a renowned tournament at the oldest golf club in the world is a thrill for golf-lovers, and we’re excited to offer our guests such a distinctive opportunity,” says John Stoll, director of land programs. “This program offers guests the ideal kickoff to a fantastic vacation, with the high standards of luxury and service they enjoy aboard our ships.”

The limited-availability British Open Championship Extended Land Program starts at $5,199 per person, double occupancy. Following the British Open land program, Crystal Serenity’s July 19, 12 day cruise sails from Venice July 19, visiting Katakolon and Navplion, Greece; Nesebur, Bulgaria; Yalta and Odessa, Ukraine, plus a maiden call to Sevastopol; and Istanbul, Turkey. On board, golfers can perfect their own game in the ship’s dedicated driving and putting areas, and get tips from Crystal’s onboard PGA Pros Denise and Gordon Walker.

Two-for-One cruise fares start at $6,645 per person, double occupancy, and include a $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive - As You Wish’ shipboard credit. Air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways - Business Class air for Penthouse guests – is also included. For more information and Crystal reservations, call Seven Seas Travel today.

Princess Cruises Debuts 20 New Shore Excursions in Alaska This Summer. Passengers Can Help Out with a Scientific Expedition or Get Up Close and Personal with Glaciers and Wildlife.

This year Princess Cruises offers passengers some fresh ways to experience Alaska up close and personal with a variety of new shore excursions for the summer. Among the 20 new options is a unique opportunity to join a scientific expedition while in Juneau to help study climate change and wildlife behavior patterns. Passengers can also get closer to the dramatic glaciers of Tracy Arm, pilot their own zodiac on a tour of Ketchikan or enjoy the opportunity for animal encounters at a film trainer’s wildlife park. These new options join Princess’ extensive shore excursion program, which currently offers 215 different Alaska tour options for passengers starting in May.

“Alaska offers so many thrilling experiences for visitors – there’s beautiful scenery nearly everywhere you turn, great opportunities to encounter wildlife, an intriguing Native culture, and of course the towering glaciers,” said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. “These new excursions showcase some of the many wonders available throughout this amazing state, and offer visitors a number of ways to get a very personal Alaska vacation.”

New tours available to Alaska passengers this summer include:
Whales & Glaciers Citizen Science Adventure (Juneau) – This unique tour will give participants a taste of what it’s like to be a research scientist in the wilds of the Last Frontier. Passengers join a science-based excursion giving them the opportunity to participate in a GPS time-lapse photo project at the Mendenhall Glacier that documents the effects of climate change on the Juneau Icefield. Citizen scientists can also collect water samples, net plankton and record humpback whale and other marine wildlife behavior. This observational data will improve scientists’ understanding of the many variables that affect Alaska’s marine ecosystem. In addition, passengers will enjoy a whale-watching cruise, with guaranteed whale sightings.

Back Country Zodiac Expedition (Ketchikan) – Passengers can be their own captain for the day as they skipper their custom-built motorized inflatable along the coastline of Revillagigado Island for a unique Alaska adventure. Participants will follow their guide on a journey that explores Native culture with a view of Saxman Native Village, and a search for wildlife such as bears, eagles, whales, seals and more. The group guide will explain the area's history, geology, culture and ecology.

Alaska Wildlife Park (Princess Exclusive – Skagway) – Visitors can meet many types of animals at the Kroschel Films Wildlife Park Center. The park is run by trainer Steve Kroschel who has a lifetime of experience working with wild animals for movies such as "Never Cry Wolf" and the PBS "Wild America" series. His center provides a home for numerous orphaned wild animals including wolves, Arctic fox, lynx, porcupine, pine marten, mink, reindeer and wolverines. Guests will enjoy hands-on, face-to-face encounters and intimate close-up photography of many of these animals as they learn about the behavior of these intriguing creatures and gain an understanding of the time and trust required to train them.

Whales, Bears & Glaciers Adventure (Princess Exclusive – Juneau) – This excursion offers an opportunity to experience the perfect Alaska trifecta: whale watching, bear viewing and a scenic flight over the glaciers of the Juneau Icefield. Visitors will see two of Alaska’s most impressive creatures with a whale watching cruise that guarantees sightings, plus a bear search at a salmon-bearing stream. The tour caps off with a flight over the Juneau Icefield and the Mendenhall Glacier on the way back to town.

Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer (Juneau) – Sapphire Princess passengers have a new way to get a close-up look at the glaciers of Tracy Arm as they cruise aboard a luxurious, high-speed catamaran for an in-depth exploration of the twin Sawyer Glaciers. The adventure begins just before Sapphire Princess reaches the entry to Tracy Arm, as participants board their catamaran directly from the ship. After viewing glaciers from a much closer vantage point than is possible from a cruise ship, they will travel to Juneau to rejoin Sapphire Princess.

Adventure Park & Zip Lines (Skagway) – Thrill-seeking passengers can walk along raised balance beams, cross suspension bridges and fly through the air on a series of zip lines with this adventurous excursion. The exciting course will keep passengers challenged and exhilarated as they soar through the air on a series of six zip lines through the lush Alaska canopy.

Juneau Jeep Adventure (Princess Exclusive) – Visitors can experience Juneau's most scenic and historic locales in the rugged comfort of a Jeep Wrangler for a small group adventure. A diver/guide will take each group on a tour through Juneau, to a scenic view of Mendenhall Glacier and other local sites, ending with a stop at the award-winning Alaskan Brewing Company for a final taste of Juneau.

Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter & Salmon Bake Combo (Princess Exclusive – Juneau) – This unique tour combination gives passengers a stunning aerial view of the famed Mendenhall Glacier plus the chance to feast on wild Alaska salmon. Participants will enjoy a glacier landing where they can explore the glacier’s surface and learn how glaciers form, flow and shape the landscape. Once they’ve worked up an appetite, visitors join the salmon bake festivities for an all-you-can-eat meal.

Historical Ketchikan Walking Tour (Princess Exclusive) – Visitors can gain a unique understanding of Ketchikan and its Tlingit culture on this guided walking tour of Alaska's "First City." Led by a former city mayor of Tlingit descent, the tour offers personal knowledge of the many changes Ketchikan has experienced over the years. Visitors will also learn the significance of totem poles within Native culture, see the former red light district, and visit a salmon ladder to see the incredible journey salmon endure as they return to their spawning ground.

Bear Country & Wildlife Expedition (Ketchikan) – Passengers can view black bears in their natural habitat on a wildlife experience just a short drive from downtown Ketchikan. Participants will enjoy a nature walk on their way to a stream where more than 100,000 Pacific salmon return each year to spawn. Large concentrations of bears and other wildlife gather to feed on the huge runs of salmon. In addition to the bears, bald eagles wait for scraps, while mink, marten and wolf frequent the area, and seals can usually be seen feeding on the bountiful fish harvest.

Behind the Scenes at Butchart Gardens (Victoria) – One of Victoria’s premiere attractions, Butchart Gardens is a beautiful place to explore independently. However, with this tour, guests have the unusual opportunity to go beyond the usual self-guided visit, and enjoy an exclusive in-depth guided tour behind the scenes. Visitors will learn the history of the gardens and explore the Mediterranean Garden and botanist’s greenhouse, plus see a demonstration by the gardens’ ceramics master as he displays his skills in flower-pot making.

For more information about Princess Alaska cruise and cruisetours or to make reservations, contact Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.

New Crystal Serenity Cruise Culminates in Venetian Fireworks. On board, guests can celebrate with an champagne reception, entertainment, Venetian dinner and view of the fireworks from the spacious open deck.

This July, guests aboard Crystal Cruises’ award-winning Crystal Serenity will be treated to one of Italy’s most popular Venetian traditions. The ultra-luxury line is introducing a new cruise for 2010 that sails into Venice just in time for the annual Redentore Festival, a spectacle of brightly colored boats, gondola races, costumes and traditional feasts culminating with a magnificent fireworks display. The 12 day Mediterranean/Adriatic voyage, departing from Athens on July 7, marks Crystal Cruises’ first ever itinerary with two shipboard overnights in Venice.

Dating back to the 16th century, the Redentore Festival commemorates the church of the same name, built on the island of Giudecca to mark the end of a plague that had stricken the city. Each year on the third Saturday in July, Venetians gather in San Marco Basin to celebrate, where they remain until late-night fireworks are set off in the bay of San Marco. On board, guests can celebrate with an al fresco champagne reception, local entertainment, Venetian dinner and view of the fireworks from the spacious open deck.

“Venice is one of the most magical cities in the world; to be there during this festival adds yet another layer to the authentic experience that our guests seek and expect with a Crystal cruise vacation,” says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel operations. “We’re thrilled to be a part of the celebration and to offer our guests more time to immerse themselves in the culture.” In addition to dozens of shoreside activities offered in the seven ports included in the itinerary, guests can maximize their stay in Venice with extravagant experiences like exclusive cooking lessons and lunch with Countess Lelia Passi or a bird’s eye view of Padua from a hot air balloon.

The voyage visits Athens, Santorini, Crete and Patmos, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; Kotor, Montenegro; Split, Croatia; and Venice, Italy. Two-for one cruise fares start at $6,465 per person, double occupancy. Complimentary air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways, including Business Class air for Penthouse guests, plus a $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard credit are included. For more information and Crystal cruise reservations, contact Seven Seas Travel.

Carnival Fascination Returns to Service from Jacksonville Following Extensive ‘Evolutions of Fun’ Upgrades. Refurbishment included Top Deck Features, Balcony Accommodations, and a New Adults-Only Retreat.

The 2,052-passenger Carnival Fascination resumes its year-round 4 and 5 day schedule from Jacksonville, Fla., today following a $34 million dry dock that included the addition of an expansive new water park, exclusive adults-only retreat, redesigned main pool area and 98 balconies to existing staterooms. These renovations are part of the line’s $350 million “Evolutions of Fun” refurbishment program for its eight 70,000-ton Fantasy-class vessels.

The Carnival Fascination is the sixth ship in the series to receive the extensive upgrades. Carnival Fascination operates Jacksonville’s only year-round cruise schedule, carrying approximately 170,000 passengers a year. On this program, 4 day cruises departing Thursdays visit Freeport and Nassau, The Bahamas; 5 day cruises departing Mondays call at Key West, Fla., and Nassau; and 5 day voyages departing Saturdays visit the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay and Nassau.

“Our Jacksonville-based cruises are a great option for those seeking a convenient, high quality vacation at a tremendous value and these new features will enhance the Carnival Fascination’s already strong appeal with consumers,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO. Added Rick Ferrin, JAXPORT’s CEO, “The Fascination has proved to be a tremendous draw for cruise passengers from throughout the southeastern U.S. with the ship typically sailing at 100 percent capacity. This package of new amenities will refresh the experience for repeat customers and enhance the experience for first-time cruisers. It’s a win-win situation for all of us.”

Exciting Top Deck Features
Carnival Fascination’s multi-million dollar refurbishment included a total transformation of its open decks, which now feature a massive new WaterWorks aqua park on Verandah Deck. This sprawling, all-ages facility includes an enclosed 300-foot-long Twister water slide full of exhilarating twists and turns, two 82-foot-long racing slides, and a splash zone for kids. The ship’s Lido Deck pool was also renovated with a colorful tropical theme featuring oversized umbrellas, vibrant tile work, thatched roofing and huge stylized palm trees, creating a relaxing resort-style ambiance.

New Balcony Accommodations
Ninety-eight balconies were also added to existing accommodations during the dry dock, creating spacious 230-square-foot balcony staterooms that provide the ideal vantage point for viewing the tropical scenery. Sixty-two of the new balcony staterooms are located aft with several of these featuring extended balconies, while 24 are located mid-ship and 12 near the stern. Several suites were also retrofitted with larger, extended balconies.

New Adults-Only Retreat
Another popular “Evolutions of Fun” element added during the dry dock was an adults-only retreat called Serenity, which is located on Promenade Deck aft, providing magnificent ocean vistas. Designed as an oceangoing oasis for relaxation, this area features a tropical design with teak-style decking, colorful umbrellas, and thatched roofing, along with two oversized whirlpools. Guests can relax in comfortable chaise lounges and chairs while enjoying frozen drinks and other icy concoctions.

Dining Enhancements
Delicious new dining options were added to the ship’s casual poolside restaurant, Coconut Grove Bar & Grill. These include a Mongolian wok venue where guests can select their favorite meat, sauce, vegetables and other ingredients and watch as a chef creates their custom-designed stir fry dish, and a rotisserie featuring roasted chicken and traditional side dishes. Additionally, the Sensation and Imagination main dining rooms were refurbished with new carpeting, upholstery and other cosmetic enhancements. The Sensation dining room, located forward, was also reconfigured for Your Time Dining providing guests the option of open seating between 5:45 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly.

A Mediterranean Culinary Adventure Awaits Guests on Windstar's Wind Surf. New Dining Experience Debuts in Degrees Restaurant.

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, unveils its new dining experience in Wind Surf's Degrees restaurant reflecting a Mediterranean culinary journey of simple cooking and seasonal preparations, showcasing authentic ingredients and classic techniques. "We look forward to presenting our guests with yet another degree of choice in dining and delivering a culinary adventure highlighting the regional and local cuisine reflective of destinations visited on our voyages," said Diane Moore, President of Windstar Cruises.

Degrees now features an innovative and stylish Mediterranean menu created by David Shalleck who has worked for over two decades in the culinary industry as a chef and television producer alongside some of America's most celebrated chefs. Shalleck is the author of the culinary travel memoir "Mediterranean Summer" chronicling his experiences as a chef on a private sailing yacht in France's Cote d' Azur and Italy's Costa Bella preparing menus comprised exclusively of local ingredients, reflecting the flavors of each port. Shalleck's book is the inspiration for Degrees' new dining concept.

"Our collaboration is a brilliant partnership of shared vision and core values," said Shalleck. "The results are an alluring menu program that brings guests closer to a destination and supports lasting taste memories." Shalleck has spent time aboard Wind Surf alongside Windstar's executive chef and culinary team, perfecting the Mediterranean menu and overseeing the launch.

The spirited menus comprise 70 new recipes and use ingredients indigenous to local cuisines with flavors and styles of cooking inherent of Windstar's destinations. Guests enjoy an evening starting with amuse bouche, followed by a selection of first courses, then on to pastas and soups, followed by a variety of entrees and side dishes and ultimately finishing with an assortment of desserts to choose from. Highlights of the menu include: Baccala Mantecato - a delicate creamy blend of salt cod and potatoes; Canape Pissaladierre - a caramelized onion tartlet with Nicoise black olives; Assiette Charcuterie - Spanish pork loin lomo, French saucisson, Italian speck and celery root remoulade; Pulpo "a la Plancha" - braised and griddled octopus with potatoes and spicy chorizo sausage; Provencal Squash and Leek Soup; Griddled Tuna "Misticanza;" Fish in Crazy Water; Pan Roast Duck Breast with Apricots; Double-Cut Lamb Chops; Honey-Coated Calmyrna Figs and Whipped Mascarpone in a Pistachio Tuile; and Panna Cotta with Pineapples and Dark Rum Syrup.

While there is no additional charge for dining at Degrees which accommodates 90 guests, reservations are recommended. Degrees new dining concept is part of Windstar's previously announced next phase of its Degrees of Difference initiative, adding amenities and enhancements to its luxurious ships.

About David Shalleck
Chef David Shalleck is the founder of VOLOCHEF® Culinary Solutions offering specialized services to the hospitality and media industries as well as private dining for special occasions and events. Shalleck has run the kitchens in noted restaurants and cooked for events in New York, San Francisco, the Napa Valley, Provence, and throughout many of Italy's famous regions. As a television culinary producer, he has worked alongside some of America's most celebrated chefs and hosts. Recent credits include the PBS series "More Fast Food My Way" and "Artist's Table" with Jacques Pepin, "Made in Spain" with Jose Andres, "Chef's Story at the French Culinary Institute," and with Cat Cora on the Food Network's "Iron Chef America."

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.

Windstar has been recognized by notable names in the travel world. Celebrated Living, American Airlines' prestigious publication for first class passengers, named Windstar Cruises "Best Small-Ship/Mid-Ship Cruise Line" on their 2009 Platinum List for the third time in a row. Windstar received a "Favourite Small-Ship Cruise Line" award in the U.K.'s Condé Nast Traveller's 2009 Readers' Travel Awards and was listed in their "Top 100 of the Best the Travel World has to Offer." Windstar has been voted the "Most Popular" cruise line in the small-ship category by Zagat. Windstar also received high marks in the categories of Top Overall, Top Cabins, Top Service, Top Dining and Top Facilities in Zagat. Windstar earned top honors in Travel + Leisure's "World's 2009 Best Awards," was lauded among "The World's Best Small Ships" by Condé Nast Traveler in 2009 and received the "Most Romantic Cruise Line" honor from Porthole Magazine for the fifth time in a row in 2009.

For more information including brochures, rates and itineraries call Seven Seas Travel Toll FREE at 888-798-9133.

New Yachts, Guests And Special Offers Drive Record Booking For The Yachts Of Seabourn. The company is attracting higher numbers of both first-time travelers and repeat guests who are eager to travel well and experience Seabourn-style cruising.

With three new yachts joining its award-winning fleet and a selection of new exotic itineraries and destinations, The Yachts of Seabourn is attracting all-time high numbers of new guests. And with new travel agent partners introducing their clients to Seabourn, the company has experienced record booking volume in the first month of 2010. For January, numbers of bookings showed a 106 percent increase compared to 2009, and were up 215 percent compared to 2008. The number of first-time guests booking a Seabourn cruise in January surged 79 percent over the same period in 2009 and 155 percent over January in 2008, which was Seabourn’s best year to date.

According to Pamela C. Conover, Seabourn’s President and CEO, the strong booking volume indicates the growing demand for luxury cruising, particularly for Seabourn’s high-end travel experience. “Travel agents and consumers have responded very favorably to our new yachts, itineraries and value-added promotions,” Conover said. “As a result, we are attracting higher numbers of both first-time travelers and repeat guests who are eager to travel well and experience Seabourn-style cruising.” The 450-guest Seabourn Odyssey, introduced in June 2009 and the first luxury vessel to be launched in six years, has been hailed as a “game-changer for the luxury segment.” Two sister ships are scheduled to debut in the next two years - Seabourn Sojourn in 2010 and Seabourn Quest in 2011. Together, the three new vessels represent a capacity increase of over 200 percent for the line in a three-year period – underlining the company’s confidence in an increasing demand for high-end cruising.

The addition of the three new ultra-luxury yachts has allowed the line to offer a wider range of new itineraries and exotic destinations, which have pleased its loyal repeat customers and attracted new ones as well. Further, beginning late last year, the line released several value-added promotions combining attractive savings and, in some cases, complimentary roundtrip air transportation.

Seabourn offers travelers an array of new itineraries, including year-round sailings in Asia aboard Seabourn Pride, exploring Vietnam, Thailand, China, Korea and Japan. The new vessels continue to offer popular itineraries such as Europe, the Mediterranean and the Americas, as well as annual World Cruises.

For a limited time, many 2010 Europe voyages are being offered with free business or economy class airfare (depending on category of suite booked), plus savings of up to 50 percent off of published brochure fares, for bookings made in February. The Yachts of Seabourn is also currently offering complimentary round trip business class airfare from 27 North American gateways to eight 12-day voyages in Asia aboard Pride from June 3 to August 22, 2010. Bookings must be made by February 15, 2010. The included airfare is combinable with Early Booking Savings of up to 30 percent off brochure fares. The complimentary business-class air offer is subject to space availability. Certain restrictions apply.

Seabourn has consistently received top honors and ratings from a number of well-respected and discerning travel publications and luxury travel experts, including Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Cruise Critic and the Virtuoso Travel Network. For more information or to book a cruise on The Yachts of Seabourn, contact Seven Seas Travel.

Lights, Camera, Action! Silversea Takes You Behind the Scenes With Acclaimed Film Professionals. Karen Allen, Kristi Zea and Ron Nyswaner Set to Host Filmmaking Presentations on Silver Spirit's Grand Inaugural Voyage.

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has tapped motion picture luminaries to host filmmaking discussion panels, screenings and enlightening presentations on the 20 February 2010, 16-day segment of Silver Spirit's Grand Inaugural Voyage, sailing from Buenos Aires to Santiago. Guests on this special voyage will enjoy an enrichment programme hosted by award-winning actress Karen Allen, best known for her role as Marion Ravonwood in Raiders of the Lost Ark and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull; award-winning production designer Kristi Zea, renowned for her work on such films as The Departed, Good Fellas and As Good as It Gets; and screenwriter Ron Nyswaner, whose screenplay for The Painted Veil won the National Board of Review's Best Adapted Screenplay Award.

"It's a great pleasure for us to welcome such accomplished members of the film industry to share their insights and expertise for the enjoyment of our guests," said Mary Thomas, Silversea's manager of enrichment programmes.

Another award-wining filmmaker Silversea has lined up as a guest speaker during Silver Spirit's Grand Inaugural Voyage is Hugh Thomson. His acclaimed ten-hour BBC documentary series Dancing in the Street: A Rock and Roll History was nominated for a Bafta award and another of his film series, Indian Journeys, also made for the BBC, won the Grierson Award for Best Documentary Series. Thomson is also an author and explorer, with special expertise in explorations of Inca settlements in Peru and far-reaching travels in Mexico. He will host presentations with a regional focus on two Silver Spirit voyages: #5006, a 14-day cruise from Valparaiso to Acapulco departing 8 March (featuring an overnight stay in Lima); and #5007, a 10-day sailing to Los Angeles departing Acapulco 22 March.

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

In the US, Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and ratedNumber-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI). International awards include "Best Innovation in Products and Services" from the Italian Innovazione Marketing Oggi Awards (2009); "World's Leading Small Ships Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2009); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2009); and "Best Luxury Cruise Operator" according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).

For more information on Silversea ultra-luxury cruises, please call Seven Seas Travel at 888-798-9133.

Cunard Line to Launch Special Relationship Enrichment Programme. New speaker series aboard Queen Mary 2 to focus on close political and cultural ties between the United States and the United Kingdom.

In keeping with its longstanding tradition of offering guests award-winning enrichment programmes, Cunard Line announces the Special Relationship speaker series. Guests sailing on select 2010 Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossings will have the unique opportunity to attend lectures by ambassadors, statesmen, politicians, journalists, academics and broadcasters with a shared interest between the United States and United Kingdom, an association first referenced as a “special relationship” by Winston Churchill in 1946. The programme was developed in direct response to guests noting their interest in hearing about politics and contemporary issues while onboard.

“When Cunard began its Transatlantic liner service 170 years ago, it began a tradition of bridging the United Kingdom and the United States. With this programme, we will bring to life and explore the historical connection between these two countries with our guests, who have expressed great interest in the subject,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line. “Additionally, the Special Relationship series further underscores Cunard’s commitment to bringing its guests not only legendary voyages aboard the most famous ocean liners in the world, but also engaging and intellectual pursuits during their journey.”

Joining the 15 April Crossing will be Iwan Morgan, professor of U.S. Studies and head of U.S. Programmes at the Institute for the Study of the Americas at the University of London. The political scientist also has been published widely in various fields of modern U.S. political history and economy. His latest book, The Age of Deficits Presidents and Unbalanced Budgets from Jimmy Carter to George W. Bush, was published at the end of 2009.

Kenneth T. Walsh, chief White House correspondent for U.S. News & World Report, is scheduled to sail on the 1 June Transatlantic Crossing. He has covered the residencies of Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and, currently, Barack Obama. Walsh is the author of four books focused on presidential topics and has won the two most prestigious awards for White House coverage – the Aldo Beckman Award in 1991 and the Gerald R. Ford Prize for Distinguished Reporting on the Presidency in 1992 and 1998.

Sailing aboard the 22 April and 25 June Crossings is Jeffrey Weinberg, who has served each of the last seven U.S. presidents as a legislative attorney at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Executive Office of the President. While onboard, Weinberg will be leading discussions on the following topics: insights into the Obama Administration, strengths and weaknesses of the governments of the U.S. and the U.K., and "tools" that are available to the President to enhance his effectiveness.

Additional programme participants will be announced in the coming months. Other scheduled voyages featuring Special Relationship speakers include: 12 September, 1 October, 10 November.

The Special Relationship series is part of Cunard Insights, the enrichment programme that introduces guests to stimulating experts and accomplished visionaries who reflect the Line's heritage of adventure and prestige. Through a series of lectures, Q&A's, social gatherings and workshops, guests connect with personalities who have achieved notable distinction in areas including history, world affairs, science, arts and literature. The Insights programme underscores Cunard’s longstanding view that onboard entertainment should afford guests a provocative and rewarding cerebral experience.

In 2010, Cunard offers guests more choices of Transatlantic Crossings, sailing classic 6 and 7 day voyages between New York and Southampton, as well as new extended seven-, eight- and nine-day Crossings to Cherbourg, France, and Hamburg, Germany, between April and November. Widely considered the definitive ocean travel experience, a Transatlantic Crossing offers guests a myriad of opportunities for intellectual interaction, leisurely pursuits, health and wellness activities and gourmet dining. Unique Cunard amenities found aboard Queen Mary 2 include the famed Princess and Queens Grill accommodation, the first Canyon Ranch SpaClub at sea and the first Todd English restaurant at sea.

For more information about Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth and to book a voyage, call Seven Seas Travel.

Disney Cruise Line Brings Fun in the Sun, Water Play For Little Ones and Goofy's Golf on the Disney Dream. The Disney Dream will also have a Mickey Pool.

An elaborately themed interactive sports deck, whimsical water play area, and relaxing poolside oasis for adults join the first-ever shipboard water coaster - AquaDuck - to provide fun in the sun for guests sailing on the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Dream. These additions, announced today, one year from the maiden voyage of the Disney Dream, offer new experiences for guests of all ages.

Goofy's Sports Deck
On Goofy's Sports Deck, the magic tees off on deck 13 with Goofy's Golf - a miniature golf course where "lessons" featuring Goofy and his son, Max, lead guests through nine themed holes of wacky fun. Each hole offers special golf instructions - with a goofy twist. Lessons include:

• "Handling a dog leg" - Guests avoid a fire hydrant and use Pluto's dog bone to guide them to the hole.
• "Stuck in the rough" - Goofy shows golfers how to avoid the tall turf and steer clear of a lawn mower.
• "Reading the green" - Stacks of books and a large magnifying glass are obstacles to circumvent on this undulating green.
• "Attacking the green" - Yo ho, yo ho! Golfers and landlubbers take a swashbuckling approach to sinking their putt on this pirate-themed hole.