www.cruising.org

Small Ship Cruising: Intimacy, Comfort And Luxury

Adventure, luxury, fine dining, worldwide itineraries of every length, exceptional value: the extraordinarily diverse menu of small ship cruises offered by members of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) features virtually all the choices and experiences found on larger vessels. But, vacationing on a small ship, whether on the grand rivers of Europe, along the coast of the Mediterranean, New England or Canada, through the islands of the South Pacific or the Caribbean, or even sailing around the world, offers two distinguishing features: the unique intimacy of sharing an experience with a relative handful of new-found friends, and the opportunity to go where larger vessels cannot, including some of the most picturesque and otherwise exclusive ports in the world inaccessible to larger ships.

More than a half dozen member lines of CLIA offer voyages in all parts of the world on ships carrying less than 500 passengers. Guests should not expect the quantity of onboard facilities found on today's larger passenger vessels carrying guests but they will discover the same attention to quality, comfort, convenience, choice and providing outstanding value that have helped cruising earn the highest of marks from millions of vacationers. Whether they are in the market for supreme luxury or rugged adventure, "up-close" cultural discoveries or a natural tropical paradise, today's travelers will find a small ship to fit their desires.

River Cruising

One of the fastest growing segments of cruising is voyages by custom-designed luxury cruise ships on the rivers of Europe and other parts of the world, including Asia and the Galapagos. Three of CLIA's newest members - AMAWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises - are undisputed experts.

With the ability to dock in the center of major cities, river cruising offers a total immersion into the historical and cultural life of the destination. Passengers often can walk or cycle from the ship to the major landmarks, World Heritage sites, museums, restaurants and cathedrals, without any of the delay of tendering from anchorages farther away. Throughout history, rivers have shaped not only the landscapes but the civilizations they pass through and river cruises bring everything, from fairy tale castles to the artistic masterpieces into immediate perspective.

In Europe, CLIA member lines offer itineraries on all the grand rivers from the Danube and the Volga to the Rhone, Saone, Seine and Douro. During the winter holidays, many itineraries take on an added level of excitement as guests visit the famous Christmas markets along the way. In 2011, it will even be possible to cruise essentially across the continent of Europe, on an itinerary offered between Amsterdam and Istanbul. And, for those travelers seeking river journeys elsewhere, the rivers of Asia, including the Mekong in Vietnam, offer another appetizing option.

Coastal Cruising

Many CLIA member lines offer coastal voyages during the autumn in Canada and New England or repositioning cruises on the West Coast between Alaska and California, but American Cruise Lines is an example of small ship cruising that features many of the towns and villages tucked away along the East Coast that are inaccessible to larger ships. American's fleet, including the 2010 arrival of the 104-passenger Independence, sail the inland waterways, rivers, and bays from Penobscot Bay and the islands of New England to the rivers of Florida. Each itinerary offers an in-depth sampling of American history, regional culture and local traditions against an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty.

For a completely different coast cruising experience there is Hurtigruten, one of most venerable cruise companies in Europe. Eleven ships in Hurtigruten fleet offer the Norwegian Coastal Voyage year-round calling on no less than 34 ports of call from one end of the country to the other, some only accessible by sea. Historically, this was the mail and passenger route, a necessity for Norwegian life. Today, an extra, luxurious dimension - a cruise vacation experience - has been added for travelers from around the world.

Luxury Small Ship Cruising

Some of CLIA's most luxurious cruise lines offer sailings on small ships, in many parts of the world. The intimate, all-suite Yachts of Seabourn offer cruises to many of the Mediterranean's more out-of-the-way ports (as well as some of the most famous). These include Zadar, Croatia; Koper, Slovenia; Le Lavandou on the French Riviera and Bandol, also in France. Seabourn's small ships sail throughout the world, navigating many of the rivers, canals and ports that larger ships cannot visit.

Among the smallest ships in the CLIA fleet are the luxurious SeaDream I and SeaDream II, SeaDream Yacht Club's 112-passenger mega-yachts. Offering European itineraries in the summer and Caribbean sailings in the winter season, these vessels also feature visits to both well-known destinations on the French Riviera, for example, and exclusive seaside towns and villages where the bigger ships cannot travel. These include cozy harbors in the British Virgin Islands and the Windward and Leeward Islands in the Caribbean and some of the lesser traveled islands in Greece, such as Naousa, on Paros, and the unspoiled island of Sifnos.

Silversea Cruises also offers top-of-the-line small ship cruising throughout the world, including world cruises of more than 100 days. The company's newest and largest ship - Silver Spirit - just tops the 500-passenger mark but other - Silver Wind, Silver Cloud, Silver Whisper, and Silver Shadow - carry between 382 and 296 guests. And, embarking in April, 2010, the 132-passenger Prince Albert II will travel from Europe and Scandinavia to Central and South America, Antarctica and South Africa before returning to Europe at the end of 2011.

Exotic/Adventure Cruises

One of the world's legendary tropical paradises - French Polynesia - is the focal point of small ship cruising on Paul Gauguin Cruises' 332-passenger m/s Paul Gauguin. Built specifically for cruising in the South Pacific, the newly renovated and refurbished ship will make 38 voyages in 2010 ranging in length from seven to 15 nights featuring such destinations as Tahiti, the Society Islands, Tuamotus, the Cook Islands, Marquesas, Tonga, Fiji and New Zealand. In its career, the Paul Gauguin has carried 140,000 guests, including 12,000 honeymooners.

Hurtigruten also offers small ship adventures, on one of the most modern luxury vessels in service today. The 301-passenger Fram, named after the Norwegian explorer Fridjof Nansen' polar exploration ship, offers a variety of cruises to destinations as diverse as Antarctica, Greenland, and Spitsbergen, in the Arctic.

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Xpedition is a 92-passenger mega-yacht that sails year-round in the Galapagos Islands. The all-inclusive nature of the voyage includes daily naturalist-led expeditions in the water and on land to explore the unique flora and fauna, including the famous and ancient giant tortoises, that so motivated and excited Charles Darwin and that have continued to inspire scientists and world travelers ever since.

Finally, Windstar Cruises offers exotic cruises of a different type - small ship cruising under sail. Luxurious, modern and decidedly high-tech, Windstar's sailing ships, which carry 148 or 312 passengers, are small and agile enough to visit some of the most exotic and out-of-the-way destinations in the Caribbean (Iles des Saintes, Bequia, Virgin Gorda), Costa Rica (Quepos, Playas del Coco, Bahia Drake, Tortuga Island), and the Mediterranean (Portovenere, Sanary Sur Mer, Port Vendres).

About CLIA

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 25 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information of CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

Select Savings Still Available for 2010 Wave Season Bookings

CLIA's 35th Anniversary Spotlights Growth & Evolution of Cruise Industry

From converted transatlantic steamers carrying a few hundred passengers to 225,000-ton vessels carrying 5,400 guests; from shuffleboard and ping pong to wave riding, rock-climbing, waterparks and luxury spas: As Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) celebrates its 35th year as the industry's leading trade association this year, a spotlight is shining on a dramatic transformation in cruising, cruise ships, and consumer expectations for vacationing. It is the story of bold visionaries, extraordinary technological advancement, bold marketing innovations and steady success despite significant challenges and obstacles. "Aside from computers and online technology perhaps, I don't know of an industry that evolved and transformed so profoundly and quickly as cruising. It would be hard to invent a story of such innovation and change. And yet it happened," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA.

Today, CLIA's 25 member cruise lines, which represent approximately 97 percent of all cruises sailed by North Americans operate more than 200 ships of all sizes in every part of the world. At least 118 of the vessels have been built since 2000; virtually all the others have been continually refurbished and modernized. Together, they will carry over 14 million passengers in 2010 and have an economic impact on the United States alone of more than $40 billion annually. In 2010, CLIA members will introduce 12 new ships ranging in capacity from 101 guests to 5,400 passengers, for a total investment of $6.5 billion. In all, 26 new vessels will enter the fleet between 2010 and 2012, representing an investment of nearly $15 billion and a net increase in capacity of 18 percent. But it was not always so.

In 1959, more travelers flew across the Atlantic Ocean than sailed on ocean liners, marking the quick demise of passenger shipping. By 1975, many shipping companies had begun experimenting with new ways to use ocean liners in order to stay in existence. Newcomers, known as the South Florida "upstarts," envisioned new concepts of vacationing at sea, first using existing ships and then quickly introducing new, purpose-built vessels.

CLIA was formed from a number of previous trade organizations to bring the industry together and promote a new kind of vacation. Warren Titus, an industry legend and president of Royal Viking Line, one of the new luxury cruise companies, was named CLIA's first chairman. Remembering the time he said, "To the best of my knowledge it was the first time an industry like ours joined together and tried to work together in the interest of the whole."

Cruising evolved quickly:

-- In 1970, some 500,000 vacationers cruised.

-- In 1977, Princess Cruises served as the setting for "The Love Boat," a TV series that came into the homes of millions.

-- By 1980, 1.4 million vacationers had joined "The Cruise Revolution," CLIA's marketing theme at the time, and, convenient air-sea vacation programs provided new appeal.

-- In 1988, Royal Caribbean's revolutionary Sovereign of the Seas, with a nine-deck atrium, luxury spa, full-scale theater and other innovations, helped turn ships into authentic vacation destinations.

-- By 1990, CLIA member lines welcomed 3.6 million guests, and in 2010, 14.3 million are forecast to cruise, including 3.6 million from international markets, one of the industry's fastest growing segments.

-- In the 1990's a boom in new ships led to the first to top 100,000 tons, the Carnival Destiny. RCI's Oasis of the Seas, introduced in 2009, weighs in at over 225,000 GRT.

-- Since 1980, the number of cruise passengers on CLIA member lines has grown at an average annual rate of 7.4 percent

New technologies enabled not just larger ships but bold new concepts in facilities, resulting in today's seagoing waterparks and full-scale luxury spas, often with their own private spa suite accommodations. There are shipboard bowling alleys and ice skating rinks. The largest ships offer several entire neighborhoods, each with its own theme or character, attractions and activities. Entertainment can feature world-acclaimed stars and groups, from Second City to Blue Man Group. In dining, the emphasis is on choice and flexibility, sometimes with a dozen or more options, and, increasingly, sophisticated and exciting enrichment programs are a regular feature of shipboard life.

Technology has also enabled the cruise industry to take a leadership position in finding solutions to environmental, health and safety issues. Rigorous recycling, energy conservation, ecological hull coatings, window tinting, propulsion and hull design, and partnerships with leading environmental organizations have helped create a new generation of increasingly "green" cruise ships.

Thirty-five years of innovations in ships and shipboard activities as well as the globalization of operations and itineraries and, most importantly, a continued commitment to provide the very best value across all price categories of cruising have helped to change consumer expectations, not only of cruising but of all vacationing. The popularity of international and multi-destination travel, interest in a variety of dining and entertainment experiences, demand for active and enriching vacations, and the insistence on quality and value are all expectations that modern cruising, by meeting them, can take pride in helping to nurture. "The North American cruise industry and all its members can be very proud of their accomplishments," Dale concluded. "This is a truly amazing story and one that will continue to be even more exciting, thanks to continued innovation and strong industry partnerships."

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Cruise Lines Report Strong Bookings During CLIA’s 2010 Wave Season

Heading into the homestretch of the industry’s biggest promotional period of the year, member companies of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported strong bookings, sparking further optimism for sales in 2010. Wave Season, the period between January and March when cruise lines and their travel agent partners showcase the full scope and variety of cruise vacations through exceptional special offers, typically generates the highest sales volume of any time of year. This year may break all records as consumers eagerly take advantage, not only of outstanding prices, but of such value-added features as generous credits for shipboard spending, accommodations upgrades, free airfare, early booking discounts and more.

The cruise lines responding to a February CLIA Wave Season survey represent the broadest spectrum of cruise experiences. In the small ship, coastal and river cruising category of the industry, American Cruise Lines reported “experiencing its best Wave Season ever. And, Hurtigruten noted that “so far we’re 21 percent ahead of the same time last year in revenue.”

Carnival Cruise Lines said, with the support of its travel agent partners, targeted marketing initiatives, itinerary enhancements and a variety of close-to-home departure points, Carnival reported record Wave Season bookings, with strong reservations activity for 2010 departures. From Jan. 1 through Feb. 21, 2010, bookings were at unprecedented levels for Carnival’s 22 ships. “We will implement an across-the-board price increase effective March 22,” said president and CEO Gerry Cahill. “Our first quarter Wave Season promotion definitely persuaded consumers to book a Norwegian cruise vacation as we saw heavy call volumes translating to exceptional bookings,” according to Kevin Sheehan, CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. Norwegian reported strong growth in group business – “up close to twofold” – as well as consumer interest in the new Norwegian Epic arriving in June and in Hawaii cruises. Royal Caribbean International’s Fourth Quarter Report “noted an improving booking environment and expects Net Yields for 2010 to improve three percent to six percent versus 2009. First Quarter 2010 Net Yields are expected to improve approximately two percent.”

Among luxury cruise lines, Crystal Cruises reports that “soaring sales for its 2010 cruises continued through the end of January. Bookings for the month were 205 percent greater than for the same month in 2009. Additionally, new-to-Crystal guests booked for 2010 are 89 percent of totals for all of 2009.” And, Seabourn Cruise Line reported: “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 in January surged 79 percent over the same period in 2009 and 155 percent of January in 2008, which was Seabourn’s best year to date.”

Windstar Cruises, the only CLIA member line to operate sail-powered cruise ships, reports “strong sales during the first six weeks of the year for 2010 sailings.”

Driving the strong consumer response to Wave Season are the special offers still available from many CLIA cruise ship members. These include:

American Cruise Lines

• Early bird discounts of $400 per stateroom for any reservations made 3 months in advance of the sailing

Azamara Club Cruises

• 2-for-1 fares and book a Club Veranda Stateroom for the price of a Club Oceanview stateroom when booking by March 31 on 2010 Europe voyages (sailings April 25 - December 9)

Carnival Cruise Lines

• A variety of attractive fares, including Early Saver rates starting at less than $70 per day, with guaranteed lowest rate with Early Saver’s price protection feature

Celebrity Cruises

• New low rates; reduced third- and fourth-guest rates; "Upgrade Your View" to veranda accommodations promotion (Offers on select sailings in Caribbean, Bermuda, Europe and Alaska)

Costa Cruises

• Up to 60 percent off select 2010 sailings; up to $100 in onboard credits for select summer Mediterranean cruises

Crystal Cruises

• Two-for-one fares for all destinations; All Inclusive – As You Wish spending credits for all destinations – up to $2,000 per couple; Free round-trip air with most cruises; Business class air for Penthouse categories in Europe; 2010 Price Guarantees

Cunard Line

• Savings of up to $600 per person on Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossings. Save up to $1,000 per person off early booking fares, based on double occupancy for Balcony staterooms on select Queen Victoria Mediterranean voyages.

Disney Cruise Line

• Select European cruises from April 10 through May 5, starting at just $50 per person, per day, including 14-night transatlantic voyage, ten- and 11-night Mediterranean sailings

Holland America Line

• Savings of up to 40 percent on ocean-view and verandah accommodations and third and fourth guest savings

Hurtigruten

• Summer Special – savings of up to 20 percent off retail rate – to promote six-, seven- or 12-day Norwegian Coastal Voyages this summer (May 1 - October 6)

MSC Cruises

• “Wave Season” special rates on select three- and seven-night Caribbean cruises, including theme cruises (comedy, baseball, country music, big band and more) on MSC Poesia, for bookings through January 31, including best available stateroom within the same category at time of booking; $100 per person deposits on all cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

• All travel partners with qualifying bookings on balcony staterooms or above made during the promotion will be entered to win a cruise

Paul Gauguin Cruises

• Free or 2-for-1 airfare from Los Angeles to Tahiti, plus up to 45 percent standard published fares for bookings made by June 30, 2010. Also no single supplement on select spring departures

Seabourn Cruise Line

• Two-For-One cruise fares plus value-priced round trip airfare add-ons to all 2010-2011 Europe and Asia cruises aboard Seabourn’s award-winning, all-suite fleet of five intimate, ultra luxury cruising yachts. Bookings must be made between March 23 and June 30, 2010

Silversea Cruises

• Up to 60 percent savings, plus free air and transfers on select voyages

Windstar Cruises

• “Europe on Sale” promotion features seven-day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles at exceptional savings; $100 per person shipboard credit for bookings by March 31; early payment gratuity package valued at $84 per guest for payment in full 6 months or more in advance

About CLIA

The Incomparable Experience And Built-In Value Of Transocean Cruising

Today’s world of cruising is global, with many members of Cruise Lines International

Association (CLIA) offering voyages in Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, South America, Asia, the South Pacific and beyond. As cruise ships large and small are seasonally repositioned from one cruising destination to another, vacationers have dozens of opportunities to enjoy one of life’s most memorable and unique experiences – a voyage by ship from one continent to another.

With the large majority offered in spring and fall as transatlantic crossings – as CLIA lines reposition vessels between the Americas and Europe – these trans-ocean voyages often also represent exceptional value for money spent.

A transocean cruise is a sea journey like no other: a unique opportunity to experience the awesome beauty of blue water ocean in surroundings of total comfort, with all the pleasures--fine dining, entertainment, enrichment--of a modern cruise ship. Depending on the route, a transocean cruise may include port visits in the Caribbean, South America, Hawaii, the far reaches of arctic Canada and elsewhere along the way.

Cunard Line is the only company that offers regularly scheduled transatlantic crossings – on the Queen Mary 2 (photo) from April to November – but more than a dozen CLIA lines offer the opportunity to savor this legendary experience on repositioning voyages. Some companies, like Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Holland America Line have numerous ships crossing the Atlantic or the Pacific this spring, from ports in North and South America. In June, travelers will have the chance to sail across the Atlantic, from Europe to America, on the maiden voyage of the world’s second largest ship, Norwegian Cruise Line’s 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic.

The following is a sample of transocean cruises available in 2010. Vacationers are encouraged to visit the Websites of CLIA member lines for more complete information on itineraries, other transocean voyages, and to discover what other opportunities are offered. Prices quoted are per person double occupancy.

Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara Journey – From Miami to Barcelona, departing April 11, prices for veranda staterooms from $1,999; from Rome to Miami, departing November 15, prices for veranda staterooms starting from $1,799. Special offers include: Up to 50 percent off brochure prices on certain sailings; Club Veranda stateroom for price of a Club Oceanview stateroom, based on availability (booking must be made by March 31, 2010)

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Century – 14 nights from Miami to Barcelona departing May 20, starting at $899 for an inside stateroom; 14 nights from Barcelona to Miami departing October 25, starting at $799

Celebrity Equinox – 14 nights from Fort Lauderdale to Rome departing April 19, prices from $899; 15 nights from Rome to Fort Lauderdale sailing October 31, starting from $1,299

Celebrity Constellation – 14 nights from Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale departing November 6, prices from $999

Celebrity Eclipse – 13 nights from Southampton to Miami departing October 31, from $1,199

Costa Cruises

Costa Atlantica – 17 nights from New York City to Copenhagen departing May 5, prices from $899.

Cunard Line

Queen Mary 2 – Twenty-one transatlantic crossings, April-November, including classic six-day voyages between New York and Southampton, plus a seven-day option as well as eight- and nine-day crossings to Cherbourg and Hamburg, starting at $895 with savings of up to $600 per person on select Early Booking fares

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Symphony – From Los Angeles to Sydney, departing February 28, fares from $3,790.

From Dubai to Athens, departing May 12, fares from $7,200. From London to New York, departing September 5, fares from $5,710.

From New York to Los Angeles, departing November 2, fares from $4,930. The line is offering shipboard credits of up to $1,000 per person

Crystal Serenity – From Dubai to Athens (part of the 2010 World Cruise), departing March 15, fares from $12,425.

From Rome to Barcelona, departing October 19, fares from $5,080. The line is offering shipboard credits of up to $1,000 per person

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Magic – 14 nights from Port Canaveral to Barcelona departing April 10, from $699; 14 nights from Barcelona to Port Canaveral, sailing September 18, $1,649 for a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

Holland America Line

Ms Eurodam – 16 days from Fort Lauderdale to Rome departing April 3, from $899

Ms Noordam – 13 days from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona departing May 14, from $899

Hurtigruten

MS Fram – 19 days from Lisbon to Oslo, featuring the Norwegian fjords, sold in three voyages: nine days between Lisbon and Dover departing April 1, starting at $1,161; a special 10-day Norwegian fjord voyage departing April 9, from $1,568; and an 11-day Baltic Adventure departing April 18 from $4,169. The line is offering a special Suite Deal for the Baltic Adventure, with 25 percent off suites, plus free airfare

MSC Cruises

MSC Poesia – 18 nights from Fort Lauderdale to Hamburg departing April 27, early booking rates start at $999; 18 nights from Kiel to New York departing September 4, early booking rates from $1,199

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Epic – Seven day transatlantic crossing, a maiden voyage, from Southampton to New York departing June 24, rates beginning at $859

Oceania Cruises

Insignia – 15 nights from Rio de Janeiro to Barcelona departing April 3, rates begin at $2,599; 15 nights from Barcelona to Rio de Janeiro departing December 6, from $2,699

Nautica – 24 nights from Bangkok to Beijing departing March 1, prices starting at $7,299; 35 nights from Cape Town to Singapore departing December 11; from $9,299

Regatta – 14 nights from Miami to Barcelona departing March 21, rates begin at $2,099; 14 nights from Barcelona to Miami departing November 13, from $2,699

Princess Cruises

Crown Princess – 14 days from Fort Lauderdale to Rome departing May 1; 14 days from London to New York departing September 3

Grand Princess – 15 days from Fort Lauderdale to London departing April 9; 16 days from London to Ft. Lauderdale departing September 25

Ruby Princess – 16 days from Ft. Lauderdale to Barcelona departing April 19; 16 days from Venice to Fort Lauderdale departing October 8

Star Princess – 18 days from Ft. Lauderdale to Copenhagen departing April 24

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Seven Seas Mariner – 16 nights from Fort Lauderdale to Monte Carlo departing March 22, from $5,770

Seven Seas Navigator – 20 nights from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco departing May 6, prices starting at $7,865; 18 nights from Seward to Tianjin departing September 15, from $8,775

Seven Seas Voyager – 14 nights from Fort Lauderdale to Reykjavik departing May 12, rates begin at $7,105; 15 nights from Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale departing November 8, from $6,945

Royal Caribbean International

Navigator of the Seas – 14 nights from Miami to Rome departing April 10; 14 nights from Rome to Fort Lauderdale departing October 23

Independence of the Seas – 14 nights from Fort Lauderdale to Southampton departing April 11

Voyager of the Seas – 14 nights from Galveston to Barcelona departing April 18; 14 nights from Barcelona to Galveston departing November 7

Adventure of the Seas – 13 nights from San Juan to Barcelona departing May 2; 14 nights from Barcelona to San Juan departing November 28

Jewel of the Seas – 13 nights from Miami to Harwich departing May 6; 14 nights from Harwich to Boston departing September 4

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Spirit – 13 days from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon departing March 19 from $2,799

Seabourn Legend – 13 days from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon departing April 8 from $3,200;– 13 days from Malaga to Fort Lauderdale departing November 20, from $2,999

Seabourn Odyssey – 13 days from Nice to Fort Lauderdale departing December 6 from $3,599; -- 12 days from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon departing March 12, 2011.

Seadream Yacht Club

SeaDream I – 13 days from San Juan to Malaga departing April 30, priced from $2299; 12 days from Malaga to San Juan departing October 14, from $2299

SeaDream II – 12 days from Barbados to Malaga departing April 25, from $2299; 12 days from Barbados to Malaga departing November 8, from $2299

Silversea Cruises

Silver Spirit – 14 days from New York to Southampton departing April 23, fares from $6,238

Silver Cloud – 15 Days from San Juan, Puerto Rico to Barcelona, Spain, departing April 14, fares from $4,398

Silver Whisper – 12 Days from Southampton, U.K. to New York City, New York, departing Sept 2, fares from $4,598

Silver Shadow – 16 Days from Vancouver, British Columbia to Tokyo, Japan, departing Sept 12, fares from $7,197

A free Economy Promotional Air Package is also available from select East, Central, and West Coast gateways

Windstar Cruises

Wind Surf – 14 days from Barbados to Lisbon departing March 21, starting from $1749; 14 days from Lisbon to Barbados departing November 14, starting from $1749

Wind Star – 14 days from St. Martin to Lisbon departing April 10, starting from $1849

Wind Spirit – 14 days from Lisbon to St. Martin departing November 20, starting from $1849

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About CLIA

CLIA Offers Bullish Forecast For The Cruise Industry In 2010

Having weathered perhaps the most challenging 18 months in its history, the cruise industry as represented by Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) member lines, is looking ahead with optimism and a proud sense of accomplishment. CLIA, its member lines and travel agents, have adapted quickly and effectively to the global economic downturn in order to keep ships sailing at full capacity throughout 2009 and expect continued growth in 2010.

CLIA was founded in 1975 to serve the needs of a small, new venture - the transformation of increasingly obsolete maritime transatlantic travel into trend-setting leisure vacationing. The industry's story is one of impressive growth - 118 new ships since 2000, and, since 1980, average annual growth in passengers of 7.4 percent, despite numerous economic downturns and other obstacles.

In 2008/2009, the cruise industry was impacted by many of the same challenges facing all businesses. Fuel prices, H1N1, the stock market crash and continued fluctuations, the housing crisis, corporate restructuring, stimulus plans and bailouts, even the uncertainty of a presidential election and, certainly, declining and fragile consumer confidence. Unlike many other industries, cruising, with an impressive history of recession-resistance, had several advantages. These include vessel mobility and redeployment, ability to quickly adapt to change, effective expense management and, above all, a product with the highest perceived value for money spent. Combined with the excitement of new ships, a proactive travel agency sales network and promotional efforts to create incredible vacation values, CLIA member lines were able to drive consumer demand and operate at full capacity throughout the most challenging months. "CLIA's member lines and travel agents responded amazingly well to the economic crisis and have put themselves in a very strong position to succeed in 2010," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "In many important ways, if you have to have these challenges, cruising is the industry to be in. We have continued high cruise vacation interest and demand and an under-penetrated market of millions who have never cruised before; approximately 80 percent of Americans have yet to cruise and the opportunity is even greater in Europe and abroad where cruise vacation adoption is growing at an accelerated rate. Statistically, cruising exceeds traveler expectations and first-timers and past cruisers keep coming back. The industry's history of thriving through even the hardest of times gives our guests confidence that they are making a safe and rewarding purchase. And, most important, cruise vacations are perceived by virtually all consumers as very high value when those consumers are seeking value above all else."

Industry Growth and Economic Impact

Despite the economic turmoil of 2009, the cruise industry continued to grow. A total of 13.445 million guests are forecast to have sailed last year (totals through the third quarter, 2009 - 9,999,068 passengers - indicate that forecast is on track), U.S. and Canadian residents accounted for 76.5 percent of guests, with 23.5 percent sourced internationally. Volume of international guests has been growing consistently. In 2000, less than 10% of the guests sailing on CLIA member cruise lines were sourced to international markets. The CLIA fleet (collectively among all 25 member cruise lines) in 2009 sailed at an average occupancy of 104.4 percent, with an average length of cruise of 7.2 days. In short, passenger volume continues to keep pace with capacity.

CLIA forecasts a total of 14.3 million passengers in 2010 - 10.7 million from North America and 3.6 million sourced internationally. This represents a total increase of passengers of 855,000 or 6.4 percent growth.

The industry's growth is also reflected in its economic impact. In 2008, direct spending in goods and services by cruise lines and their passengers totaled $19.07 billion, a 2 percent increase over 2007. Factoring in indirect spending, the total economic impact of the industry on the U.S. economy was $40.2 billion, an increase of six percent. All 50 states were positively impacted. This included the generation of 357,710 jobs paying a total of $16.2 billion in wages and salaries nationwide.

New Ships

After introducing 14 new ships representing a total investment of $4.7 billion in 2009, the CLIA fleet will invest an additional $6.5 billion and welcome 12 new vessels this year. Significantly, the new ships continue to reflect the diversity of ships and cruise experiences available to the traveling public, ranging in capacity from 101 passengers to 5,400 passengers and built for everything from roaming the globe in sheer luxury to sailing the waters of Europe's most famous rivers and the coastlines of North America.

The newest members of the CLIA fleet will include:

Royal Caribbean International: Allure of the Seas (5,400 passengers)

Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Epic (4,200 passengers)

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Eclipse (2,850 passengers)

MSC: MSC Magnifica (2,550 passengers)

Costa Cruises: Costa Deliziosa (2,260 passengers)

Holland America Line: Nieuw Amsterdam (2,100 passengers)

Cunard Line: Queen Elizabeth (2,092 passengers)

Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Sojourn (450 passengers)

Avalon Waterways: Felicity and Luminary (138 passengers)

Pearl Seas Cruises: Pearl Mist (110 passengers)

American Cruise Line: Independence (101 passengers)

Looking forward, CLIA member lines have 26 new ships on order between 2010 and 2012 - 23 ocean-going vessels and three built for river/coastal cruising. This represents a net increase in capacity of 18 percent, or 53,971 beds.

Industry Trends

At the end of 2009, CLIA surveyed its member lines and member travel agents to get a better picture of their outlook and level of optimism for 2010 and to identify major industry trends. These are some of the findings:

Travel agents are optimistic about the coming year, with 75.7 percent anticipating an increase in sales and another 11 percent expecting to hold even with 2009. Most agents surveyed looked forward to sales increases of approximately 15 percent. Although the cruise selling season spans the entire year, the traditional "Wave Season" (January-March) will continue to be important for cruise sales, according to agents, with 83 percent predicting an increase in booking volume of 10-20 percent.

Consumers, according to agents, continue to express strong interest in all types of cruising. High interest in contemporary cruising was expressed by 73 percent of clients, followed by premium cruise lines (49.7 percent) and destination/niche cruise products (47 percent). One of the most dramatic findings was the high interest in river cruising by 34 percent of clients.

Cruising continues to rank number one among consumers for perceived value, vacation interest and, for travel agents, ease in selling.

Popular Destinations

The anticipated top cruise destinations for 2010, by volume of sales, according to agents, are: The Caribbean/Bahamas, including eastern Mexico, Alaska, Mediterranean and Greek Islands/Turkey, Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal, West Coast of Mexico, Bermuda, European rivers and Canada/New England.

The top "hot" destinations (consumers increased interest) include: The Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Alaska, European rivers, Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal, West Coast of Mexico and the Bahamas

While remaining relatively short, the cruise booking window is lengthening. Agents report an average window of 5.04 months (compared to 4.6 months in 2009), with only 30 percent of clients booking less than four months out (compared to 39 percent in 2009).

Couples dominate cruise demographics although agents report continued growth in families, extended families, and friends traveling together as well. Seniors also continue to be an important segment.

Fifty-three percent of agents expect to book more new cruisers in 2010 while 37 percent expect their client mix of new and repeat customers to remain constant.

CLIA travel agents continue to be very optimistic about travel in the next three years, particularly cruise travel - 71.1 percent describe themselves as "very or extremely optimistic."

CLIA training remains extremely important for member agents. Eighty-eight percent have taken CLIA training; almost 70 percent are currently enrolled in some form of CLIA education, and 87.2 percent say training is important.

Future trends in cruising

CLIA member lines, meanwhile, identify a number of trends that will help define cruising in 2010:

-- Strong interest in group and affinity travel (for some lines more than 40 percent of business)

-- Popularity of theme cruises, notably music, food and wine cruises

-- Some lines are increasing their line-up of onboard speakers for enhanced enrichment programs

-- Cruise lines expect baby boomers and repeat cruisers to be the biggest growth markets

-- Historical and cultural shore excursions tend to be the most popular

Shipboard spas continue to attract cruisers, with some lines reporting use by 40-50 percent of passengers

-- New green, environment-friendly shipboard technologies being utilized, such as solar power, advanced water treatment systems, Alternative Maritime Power, fuel conservation, innovative hull treatments and others

It is also worth noting that many CLIA member lines have plans in place to boost marketing efforts for 2010 to ensure continued demand, including taking full advantage of social media, including Facebook and Twitter.

CLIA travel agents agree with member lines that consumers have much to look forward to in 2010. In addition to new ships of every size and description, these are some of the innovations that are guaranteed to generate strong interest among vacationers:

-- New shipboard amenities and facilities such as themed "neighborhoods," full-sized waterparks, adults-only areas, comedy clubs, more and more dining choices and a greater choice of accommodations

-- Expanded and diversified shore excursions, including private excursions

-- Incentives to book in advance, such as gratuity packages and discounts

-- Approximately 30 domestic ports of embarkation mean that half the residents of the United States are now within driving distance of cruises sailing to all parts of the world, eliminating the cost and inconvenience of flying

Summing it up, Dales says “vacations are needed now more than ever; everyone needs the time and space to relax and revitalize. Nothing makes that easier than a cruise and we are confident that with new ships and itineraries, innovative shipboard experiences and incredible value, 2010 will be a great year for cruising.”

About CLIA

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 25 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

Canada's Importance To Cruise Industry Continues To Grow

In 2009, over 775,000 Canadians are forecast to take a cruise on Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member cruise ships, triple the number from ten years ago and a 9.2 percent increase over 2008. They will represent 25.5 percent of all internationally sourced (non-U.S.) cruise vacationers.

Playing an indispensable and irreplaceable role in driving sales in this increasingly important market and helping vacationers plan with convenience and ease are Canada's travel agents, including over 900 CLIA member agencies, 6.7 percent of total agency members. And they are optimistic that Canada will become an ever stronger player in the global cruise industry in the near future. "There is no doubt that, as the cruise industry continues to grow and globalize its operations, Canada is playing a bigger and bigger role, offering multiple appealing cruise destinations on both coasts and Canadians from all parts of the country are taking more and more cruises," said Terry Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "At the same time, the cruise industry is making a significant contribution to the Canadian economy. So it is a win-win situation for everyone, and, among the biggest winners are our travel agent partners."

A strong indication of the importance CLIA places on its partnerships in Canada was the decision to hold the industry's annual conference, cruise3sixty, in Vancouver, June 2-6, 2010, the first time the event has been staged outside of Florida and an important opportunity for Canadian agents to gain information and education, inspect cruise ships and interact with the entire global cruise industry.

Since 1980, the cruise industry, as represented by members of CLIA, has shown an impressive and steady growth despite numerous economic downturns and other adverse conditions and events. The industry continues to invest in growth: in 2009 CLIA lines introduced 14 new ships; in 2010 they will launch another 13. Between 2010 and 2012 the CLIA fleet will grow by 26 vessels, an investment of nearly $15 billion. These ships, including the three largest ever built as well as some of the smallest, showcase the incomparable variety and choice offered to consumers across all price categories and types of itineraries around the world.

As the industry has grown, CLIA member lines have expanded into all parts of the world, notably Europe, South America, Asia and new destinations and itineraries in North America as well. As a result, non-U.S. sourced passengers have been on the rise, accounting for 22.3 percent of total passengers in 2008. In this context, Canada had a capacity of 8.7 million bed days offered in 2009. Canada/Alaska itineraries represented over 7 percent of total CLIA fleet capacity, an increase of 64 percent since 2000. The 1.9 million bed days for Canada/New England cruises represent an increase in capacity of 69 percent in the same time period.

Meanwhile, according to independent analysis of the cruise industry's economic impact, cruise calls in Canada generate more than $2.3 billion (Canadian dollars) in total output in the Canadian economy, including $1.1 billion in direct spending by cruise lines, passengers and crew. The industry generates more than 16,000 jobs paying a total of $642 million in wages and salaries. British Columbia, benefiting from the Alaskan cruise traffic, accounts for two-thirds of the national impact but even interior provinces are impacted as source markets for cruise passengers and providers of services, food and provisions, and cruise-related land tourism packages. In eastern Canada, the ports of Quebec and Atlantic Canada on a combined basis accounted for about $275 million or 12 percent of the cruise industry's impact on the Canadian economy, due to the popularity of Canada-New England cruise vacations.

Canadian Travel Agent Survey

As the cruise industry's primary distribution channel, travel agents have a unique perspective on the prospects for the future and consumer interests and expectations. For that reason, CLIA surveyed its Canadian agent members in November 2009 to get a better sense of the market. According to Bob Sharak, CLIA's executive vice president, marketing and distribution, the results are highly encouraging. "Like their American counterparts, and perhaps more so, our Canadian members are bullish on the industry. They like the prospects for the coming year and beyond, they are confident that they can expand the pool of new cruise passengers, and they are preparing themselves for success with training and professional development," he said.

Looking ahead to 2010, the CLIA survey found that 92.5 percent of Canadian agents are optimistic about travel in general and 97.7 percent expressed optimism for selling cruises. And 66.4 percent described themselves as very or extremely optimistic about selling cruises next year, while 53.4 percent were very or extremely optimistic about selling travel in general. More than 82 percent of agents expect increases in cruise sales next year. Almost 70 percent expect those sales to translate into higher cruise revenues. And, in good news to the industry, over 50% of agents believe they will sell to more first-timers in 2010 than 2009.

The survey also helped identify the Canadian cruise market. Couples and families are the most likely customers; "friends and multiple families traveling together" is the fastest growing category of cruise client; contemporary and premium pricing levels are the most popular, and the top ten cruise destinations for Canadians, in order, include the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Alaska, Europe, European river cruises, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, Mexico, the Baltic region, and South America.

Agents surveyed predicted that the "hot" destinations for 2010 will be the Mediterranean and Greek islands, European river voyages, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, the Baltic, Alaska and Southeast Asia.

Canadian agents also expressed strong commitment to professional development, with 60 percent saying training is very or extremely important. Almost half of agents (47 percent) surveyed are currently enrolled in CLIA Certification programs and 38 percent have achieved a CLIA Certification designation. More than 60 percent have taken CLIA training within the last two years.

What is needed to stimulate more interest in cruising among Canadians? Overwhelmingly, travel agents cited two conditions: a strengthened Canadian economy and continued value pricing of cruises.

For more information on CLIA and the cruise industry, please visit www.cruising.org.

Highlights from CLIA's Canadian Travel Agent Survey

Canadian travel agents are generally optimistic about 2010, especially about cruise vacation sales, with 92.5 percent describing themselves as optimistic about travel overall and 97.7 percent saying they are optimistic about selling cruises. And, 66.4 percent describe themselves as very/extremely optimistic about selling cruises while 53.4 percent are very/optimistic about travel in general next year.

A strong majority of agents expect cruise revenues to grow next year: 68.9 percent predicted moderate to significant increases in revenue in 2010. To spur those sales, the majority of Canadian agencies intend to at least maintain current levels of marketing, with many indicating plans to increase efforts in public relations, website development, social networking and cruise events.

Canadian travel agents state that, on average, 35 percent of their 2009 cruise clients were first time cruisers. Over 50 percent believe they will increase their percent of new cruiser clients in 2010.

On average, Canadian agents state that nearly 60 percent of their leisure sales are cruise vacations. In fact, cruises represent over 70 percent of leisure sales for 48 percent of those who responded to the survey.

Canadian agents sell all types of cruise vacations. When asked to list three cruise categories they typically sell, these were the findings:

Contemporary lines - 76.7 percent

Premium lines - 74.7 percent

River/coastal cruises - 50 percent

Niche/destination focused cruises - 38 percent

Luxury cruises - 31.3 percent

Expedition/adventure cruises - 5.3 percent

Identifying the characteristics or demographics of current cruise clientele, agents reported that couples top the list of passengers, followed by nuclear families (parents and children). In third place were friends and multiple families traveling together followed by seniors. Segments showing the most growth include friends and multiple families traveling together and extended family/multigenerational travel.

According to agents, Canadian consumers have the strongest interest and perceive the highest value in cruise vacations, followed closely by all-inclusive resorts. Agents also said cruise vacations were the easiest sale to make.

Looking ahead to 2010, agents predict the strongest interest and bookings for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Greek islands, and Alaska, in that order; "hot" destinations identified by agents include European river cruises and the Mediterranean and Greek islands.

Canadian cruisers are planning and booking their cruise vacation further in advance. CLIA member travel agents in Canada report 2010 bookings are occurring, on average, 5.6 months in advance versus the average 4.4-month booking window in 2009.

Current cruise pricing, according to agents, seems to be stable, with some increases in select market segments or destinations; not surprisingly, cruise line pricing influences bookings in all categories and types of cruising, agents say, with pricing most influential for contemporary cruise lines.

Among Canadian agents, 60.9 percent have taken CLIA training within the last two years and 47 percent are currently enrolled in Certification programs; another 25.6 percent enrolled in CLIA training more than two years ago.

CLIA training matters to Canadian agents: 57.5 percent say it is very or extremely important, primarily because it provides more industry knowledge than any individual agent could accumulate in any other way.

What is needed to stimulate interest in cruising among Canadians? Overwhelmingly, travel agents cite two conditions: a strengthened Canadian economy (66.4 percent) and continued value pricing of cruises (73.1 percent).

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The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America’s largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 25 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

November/December 2009

Ten Reasons To Cruise For The Winter Holidays

The members of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) celebrate the winter holidays all over the world with style and festive spirit. For those who need a reason to pack up the family and take a Hanukkah, Christmas or New Year’s cruise this holiday season, here are the top ten:

-- CLIA member cruise lines offer holiday cruises of all lengths on all types of ships, including the world’s newest and largest, in all parts of the world, from Africa to the Caribbean to the Mediterranean to Antarctica.

-- When quality family time counts the most, a holiday cruise offers flexibility and choice in recreational activities, entertainment, relaxed dining and fun for travelers of all ages.

-- With special pricing, an abundance of diverse activities and plenty of entertainment, cruising for the holidays is the ideal choice for multigenerational groups or groups of families and friends.

-- Holiday cruisers do not need to worry about planning and preparing menus, doing the dishes or cleaning the house. On a cruise, you can leave holiday chores behind and concentrate on enjoying time spent with loved ones.

-- In times of stress, the chance to totally escape is just what the doctor ordered. Vacationing has been proven to be healthy and good for one’s well-being.

-- With a caring ship’s staff doing all the work, including the entertaining, a holiday cruise means more time to celebrate and enjoy the festivities.

-- With so many different cruises and cruise ships to choose from, there is a holiday cruise for every budget.

-- Featuring inclusive pricing, incomparable comfort and convenience, and travel to some of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, no holiday celebration offers more value for money spent than a cruise.

-- What better or more-appreciated gift could there be than the lifetime memories of a holiday cruise with family or friends?

-- It’s not too late; many CLIA member lines are waiting to welcome last-minute cruise shoppers for the holidays.

Here is a sampling of what CLIA member cruise lines are offering this year during the holidays:

AMAWaterways

The festive, traditional Christmas Markets of Vienna, Regensburg, Cologne, Prague and Paris are among the highlights of AMAWATERWAYS’ winter holiday voyages on the great rivers of Europe. Strolling through bustling village squares decorated with lights and Christmas trees, passengers can shop for everything from home-made gingerbread to hand-carved wooden toys, returning at the end of the day to a ship festooned with a holiday décor. In addition to such special touches as a formal Christmas Dinner and New Year's Eve Gala Dinner, the company is offering “wonderful winter savings” with “Companion Cruises Free!” pricing. Passengers traveling in single accommodations may elect to waive the single supplement charge.

Avalon Waterways

Travelers can experience the holiday season the Central European way with Avalon Waterways on deluxe "Christmastime" river cruise vacations on the legendary Danube and Main Rivers. They will enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of 1,000-year-old-Prague and delight in the sights, smells and tastes of local Christmas markets in Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Würzberg, Bamberg, Miltenberg and Vienna. And, when they're ready to return to the ship after festive sightseeing, they’ll enjoy moving scenery from their spacious staterooms complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and French balconies as well as regionally inspired cuisine aboard award-winning ships. Cruisers booking before November 3, 2009 can receive 50 percent off airfare on already reduced winter savings.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Throughout the Carnival fleet, the winter holidays are celebrated with Christmas trees, wreaths and mistletoe, seasonal music, holiday entertainment, Christmas-themed movies and more. Santa Claus always makes an appearance toting a bag of gifts and an elaborate production show enables children to participate onstage, showcasing decorations they have made in Camp Carnival. Holiday menus feature such traditional favorites as oven-roasted turkey and pecan pie. On New Year's Eve, guests are provided with party favors, noise makers and Champagne.

Costa Cruises

With Costa Fortuna and Costa Atlantica sailing the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Costa offers a warm and festive Italian style winter holiday experience. The ships are completely decorated with Christmas trees, twinkling lights and beautiful ornaments and, on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Santa Claus makes special visits with keepsake gifts. Special holiday dinner and lunch menus offer a mix of the Italian cuisine and traditional favorites. A special New Year’s Eve “gala” night provides the opportunity to dress up for the holidays. Both ships feature holiday sailings from $599, complete with an up-to four category upgrade while kids sail for just $199 on all Caribbean holiday voyages. Deposits have been reduced to $150 on all Caribbean sailings as well.

Crystal Cruises

This Christmas and New Year, Crystal Symphony will be cruising Antarctica and South America, allowing guests to experience both the South American spring and a white Christmas in Antarctica and Cape Horn. For a warm-weather Christmas, Crystal Serenity will be in the Caribbean for the holidays, sailing roundtrip from Miami on December 21. Ports include Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Barts, Turks & Caicos, Bonaire and Miami. All Crystal Holiday voyages feature more than $100,000 in seasonal décor, handcrafted decorations, lavish feasts and parties and a black tie New Year’s Eve gala. They also offer the Crystal Family Memories program, with special savings, shipboard credits, free fares for children and more for groups.

Cunard Line

Imagine the winter holidays in picture-perfect Copenhagen and other Scandinavian capitals filled with antiquity and charm. Cunard Line is offering a special "complimentary double upgrade" promotion on Queen Victoria’s December 9, 2009 “Winter Wonderland” voyage. Roundtrip from Southampton, this Scandinavian itinerary includes overnight stays in Hamburg, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark. Both Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 will hold Hanukkah services and will have kosher culinary offerings available to guests. The ships will also be festooned with greenery, including trees and wreaths, ornaments, nutcrackers, gingerbread cottages and twinkling lights for Christmas, and kids will be delighted to find Father Christmas handing out gifts.

Disney Cruise Line

The spirit of the season surrounds guests of Disney Cruise Line during the winter holidays. Starting with Disney characters in their finest holiday attire welcoming guests at the decorated cruise terminal in Port Canaveral, the festivities include: “King Triton’s Tree Lighting” ceremony; family crafts such as stocking decorating and building gingerbread houses; holiday storytellers sharing tales of Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwaanza; traditional holiday feasts in three themed dining rooms and “Til We Meet Again,” a special holiday edition of the line’s cheerful farewell on the final night of the voyage. Disney Magic sails on seven-night eastern and western Caribbean holiday cruises; Disney Wonder offers three- and four-night Bahamian holiday cruises.

Holland America Line

Holland America offers 20 holiday cruises between December 16 and December 28. The Caribbean beckons with 11 holiday sailings from Fort Lauderdale and Tampa that range from seven to 14 days over one or two holidays. In a new offering for 2009, ms Maasdam will sail a ten-day Western Caribbean itinerary and an 11-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary. Most sailings feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, the line’s award-winning private Bahamian island. Holland America also offers roundtrip seven-day holiday cruises from San Diego to Mexico, three Panama Canal transits between Fort Lauderdale and California, a 15-day Circle Hawaii itinerary and longer cruises in Australia, New Zealand, South America and Antarctica.

Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten is offering an all-inclusive package with all of the trimmings for the Christmas season. The penguins won't be the only creature wearing a tux as Hurtigruten’s festive 21-Day Christmas and New Year’s Antarctica cruise-tour, departing December 19, 2009 celebrates the holiday season with traditional Norwegian Christmas breakfasts and dinners, onboard musicians, Christmas carols, a Santa Claus laden with gifts and a New Year's Eve dinner and midnight party -- all against a backdrop of stunning Antarctic landscapes. This offer can be booked using Hurtigruten's interest-free "Layaway Getaway" monthly payment plan.

MSC Cruises

MSC celebrates the winter holidays with an international flair, with festivities and traditions practiced around the world. In the Caribbean, MSC Poesia will offer a seven-night “Happy Holidays, Caribbean-Style” Eastern Caribbean voyage from Fort Lauderdale departing on December 20, and a seven-night “Caribbean & Confetti NewYear’s” Western Caribbean cruise departing December 27. In the Mediterranean, from Genoa to Egypt, guests can celebrate on MSC’s two newest ships, the MSC Splendida and the MSC Fantasia, on Eastern Mediterranean and Western Mediterranean holiday itineraries. Children 17 and under sail free with MSC when sharing a stateroom with two adults paying full fare.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian makes Christmas at sea an unforgettable experience. All ships are festively decorated, crew members stage an interactive holiday show in the ship's theater, cruise directors and staff sing carols and Santa takes time out of his busy schedule to hand out gifts on Christmas Day. Holiday-themed menus feature dishes such as honey-glazed black forest ham with sweet potato mash, roasted turkey with apple and apricot stuffing, pumpkin soufflé and a pear and chestnut torte. Hanukkah is celebrated with kosher menus and the lighting of a menorah each day to commemorate the eight-day celebration. While kids enjoy Norwegian's youth program, parents enjoy the high-energy, festive White Hot New Year's Eve party.

Princess Cruises

Princess’ 17-ship fleet offer a wide range of sailings in the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Hawaii and South Pacific for Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s. Whatever the destination, guests will find Yuletide carolers, waiters wearing Santa hats, festive décor, live seasonal music and films, and special holiday feasts featuring all the traditional favorites. Popular with families, the holiday voyages offer young travelers parties, sing-a-longs, arts and crafts, and the chance to help decorate the ship’s Christmas tree. They also may participate in a holiday theatrical production and, on Christmas Day, Santa Claus makes a surprise appearance, bringing gifts and joy for all.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The ships of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, beautifully decorated over the holidays with trees, garlands, bunting and ginger bread houses, will be in the Caribbean, French Polynesia and transiting the Panama Canal over the winter holidays this year. A ten-night voyage roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale features many of the Caribbean “Saints”: St. Thomas, St. Barts, St. Kitts, and Saint Maarten as well as the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Panama Canal is the featured attraction of sailings between Fort Lauderdale and California and Papeete is the departure point for sailings in Polynesia. The voyages also offer an ecumenical religious service over the holidays for those guests wishing to attend, and a special Christmas dinner menu in the main dining room.

Royal Caribbean International

Families will have the opportunity to sail the newest, biggest ship in the world this holiday season when the 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas departs December 19 from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean. In addition to seasonal decorations, the entire RCI fleet will offer such holiday favorites as classic movie screenings, caroling, cookie decorating, festive music and readings of classic Christmas stories. The December 12 sailing of Independence of the Seas, also from Fort Lauderdale, will combine the Jewish Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, with an eight-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. RCI offers holiday sailings from 10 domestic ports, including Bayonne, Baltimore, Port Canaveral, Miami, Port Everglades, Tampa, Galveston, San Diego, Los Angeles and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Legend welcomes guests to a warm, sparkling Caribbean Holiday voyage this winter. Holiday revelers can choose from a seven-day "Legendary Christmas" voyage departing Fort Lauderdale on December 21 and ending at Barbados on December 28, or a "Legendary New Year's" cruise from Barbados on December 28 ending at Fort Lauderdale on January 4, 2010. Or, they may combine the two voyages and sail on a 14-day round trip voyage to enjoy both the holidays’ festivities and fun. Seven-day fares on Seabourn Legend start from $3,499 per person, double occupancy and the full 14-day cruise starts from $6,999 per person, based on double occupancy. Accommodations are a 277-square foot ocean-view suite.

Seadream Yacht Club

SeaDream I and SeaDream II, the company’s twin luxury mega-yacht cruisers, will make four Caribbean holiday sailings this year. Offered as a roundtrip voyage from San Juan or one-way between St. Thomas and San Juan, the five-, seven- and nine-day voyages all feature an overnight stay at St. Barts in the French West Indies. Late evening stays in several other Caribbean ports of call allow for holiday shoreside festivities. Ports of call include islands in the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, the French West Indies, the Grenadines, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, depending on the cruise chosen. SeaDream fares include all meals, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with selected premium brands, plus use of “water toys” from the vessel’s Marina, and gratuities.

Silversea Cruises

The six globe-trotting Silversea ships, including the brand new Silver Spirit, celebrate the holidays from Antarctica to Zanzibar on itineraries ranging from eight to 17 days. Silver Spirit will holiday in the Mediterranean and North Africa, offering an 11-day maiden voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon. Silver Wind will spend 14 days in Africa and the Seychelle Islands, departing December 20 from Mahe. Prince Albert II departs Ushauaia on December 21 on a 17-day expedition to Antarctica. Silver Shadow departs December 11from Barbados on a nine-day Caribbean itinerary, and on December 20 on a 15-day roundtrip voyage from Fort Lauderdale through the Caribbean. Other voyages over the holidays feature South America and the South Pacific.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Come one, come all with Uniworld’s 2 for 1 Savings and Single Supplement Waived Offers on 2009 Europe Holiday River Cruises. Cherish all the glory and magic of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the magical rivers during this festive time of the year. Uniworld’s 2 for 1 Savings and Single Supplement Waived offer applies to the following cruises: European Holiday Markets, Vienna to Nuremberg, December 14; Rhine Holiday Markets, Basel to Cologne, December 20; and Rhine & Main Holiday Markets, Nuremberg to Cologne, December 17. Cruises include: elegantly appointed riverview staterooms, meals with complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks, celebratory events and entertainment, fully escorted shore excursions, and all transfers on arrival and departure days.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises offers special rates on holiday and New Year's cruises in the Caribbean and Costa Rica. Wind Spirit's holiday sailings feature a new seven-day St. Martin itinerary that includes the British Virgin Islands, St. Barts and Jost Van Dyke. Wind Star offers an in-depth discovery of Costa Rica, and Wind Surf sails roundtrip from Barbados, calling on such islands as St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, Iles Des Saintes, St. Kitts, Bequia and St. Barts. The ships are decorated with beautiful holiday decorations and feature a special holiday menu prepared by the executive chef. New Year's cruises include a festive New Year's Eve party including party favors, live music, an official countdown by the captain and a Champagne toast.

Last Minute Bargains Make The Caribbean A ‘Must’ Destination

As many Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) members showcase their newest ships on appealing Caribbean itineraries this winter and throughout 2010, vacationers have numerous opportunities to take advantage of unbeatable last minute bargains, early booking savings and some of the best year-round vacation values anywhere in the world, across all price categories of cruising.

With Port Everglades, Port Canaveral and Miami at the top of the list, CLIA members offer Caribbean itineraries from easily reached embarkation ports on the East Coast and Gulf Coasts. Among the newer places to board a spectacular cruise ship to the tropics are Baltimore, Charleston, Mobile and others. For West Coast residents, a Caribbean cruise is just a short flight away. A growing number of ports in the Caribbean region also offer the opportunity to visit as many islands as possible – in some cases, seven in seven days.

Here are some of the newest developments in Caribbean cruises:

Azamara Cruises

Azamara Journey will sail a variety of Caribbean, Panama Canal and first-ever Sea of Cortez voyages between November 2010 and April 2011. The season features 23 ports in 13 different countries. The 12-night Caribbean itineraries are roundtrip from Miami, visiting ports in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. Kitts, Guadeloupe, St. Barts, St. Lucia and Dominica. Sixteen-night Panama Canal voyages sail between Miami and San Diego.

Carnival Cruise Lines

The largest Carnival ship ever constructed, the 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream launches year-round Caribbean service from Port Canaveral in December. Carnival also is increasing its capacity from Mobile, Alabama by 42 percent with the deployment of the Carnival Fantasy in November (to be replaced by Carnival Elation in May 2010) and by 34 percent from New Orleans when Carnival Triumph begins new Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises in November. And, beginning in May 2010, Carnival Fantasy will launch the first year-round cruise schedule from Charleston.

Celebrity Cruises

The 2,850-passenger Celebrity Equinox, the company’s newest arrival, makes her debut in the Caribbean this winter with ten- and 11-night cruises from Port Everglades. Celebrity guests also have more East Coast ports to choose from, including Baltimore, Charleston and Bayonne (for Bermuda cruises) and can take advantage of lower airfares to San Juan where Celebrity Summit visits no fewer than five ports in a week. Celebrity Solstice will sail year-round in the Caribbean starting this winter.

Costa Cruises

With sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Costa Atlantica returns to the Caribbean with new, exclusive spa accommodations that feature personalized wellness consultations, complimentary spa treatments, fitness or meditation classes, complimentary access to the Wellness Restaurant and more. Guests on Costa Atlantica and Costa Fortuna can also take advantage of “Italy in the Tropics” with a “Free Upgrade” promotion and the popular “Kids Sail Free” program.

Cunard Line

Cunard is looking ahead to the 2010 Caribbean season and the arrival of its newest ship, the Queen Elizabeth, which will offer a debut 22-day Caribbean voyage roundtrip from Southampton departing December 14. The itinerary includes inaugural calls in Madeira, Tortola, Dominica, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua and the Azores. Queen Mary 2’s 2010 season will feature three different itineraries, all roundtrip from New York and varying in length from ten to 15 days.

Holland America Line

Offering diversity and a breadth of itinerary lengths from seven to 14 days, Holland America Line has nine ships sailing the Caribbean on 126 cruises from January to May and October to December. The line's newest ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, will offer seven-day western and eastern itineraries. Homeports are Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa. Some cruises include the Panama Canal and nearly all include the line's award-winning private island of Half Moon Cay, Bahamas.

MSC Cruises

Vacationers have until October 31 to take advantage of MSC Cruises’ “Last-Minute” deals on select Caribbean cruises aboard the MSC Poesia. The five- and ten-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale feature the southern or eastern Caribbean or Panama. This year marks the Caribbean debut of the 1,275-passenger Poesia, which will offer cruises of three- to ten nights.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Next year marks the arrival of Norwegian Epic, Norwegian’s largest and most innovative ship, which will begin her inaugural Caribbean season in July with alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries available as seven-day individual sailings or 14-day combined sailings and offered through April 2011. Norwegian also will seasonally homeport the 1,936-passenger Norwegian Sun in Port Canaveral beginning October 2010 for seven-day eastern and western Caribbean itineraries.

Oceania Cruises

Three of Oceania’s seven Caribbean itineraries for 2010/2011 will be new, including a ten-day “Mayan Mystique” voyage of the western Caribbean; a 14-day “Southern Treasures” cruise featuring overnights in Bermuda and Charleston; and a new springtime Panama Canal sailing. In addition, there will be two departures –November 27 and March 19 – for the 24-day “Amazon Adventure” and a 12-day holiday voyage. An introductory offer expiring March 31 includes free air and two-for-one pricing.

Princess Cruises

Princess will sail six ships on 13 Caribbean itineraries ranging from seven to 14 days this winter, with 129 departures visiting more than 25 ports in these fabled islands. Ruby Princess will take over the line’s ten-day eastern and southern Caribbean itineraries, offering some of the less-visited ports in the region. Crown Princess’s western Caribbean itinerary will feature Roatan, Honduras. Grand Princess returns with an extensive 14-day Caribbean Collection route and Sea Princess will again sail on 14-day voyages from Barbados.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent will be offering a full season of Caribbean cruises from December to April this winter aboard the newly refurbished Seven Seas Navigator. During the 2009 refurbishment the ship received two brand new restaurants (Prime 7 and La Veranda) as well as a Canyon Ranch SpaClub®. All roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, the cruises feature two-for-one fares, free air from 22 North American gateways, free Unlimited Shore Excursions and government fees and taxes included in the fare.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal welcomes the largest ship in the world, the 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas, to Fort Lauderdale in November when the ship begins year-round Caribbean cruises. Looking ahead, sister ship Allure of the Seas joins the company’s Caribbean fleet for the 2010-11 Caribbean season, which will feature year-round voyages from such ports as Port Everglades, Port of Miami, Port Canaveral, and San Juan, Puerto Rico; seasonal voyages from ports ranging from Cape Liberty to Galveston; and over 20 short itineraries to 15 ports in the Caribbean.

Seabourn Cruises

Seabourn is canceling a planned five-month deployment of Seabourn Legend in the Indian Ocean late next year. Instead, after summering in Europe, the 208-guest, all-suite Legend will return to the Americas and sail to Seabourn’s “Uncommon Caribbean” in late 2010 and early 2011, making seven- to 14-day voyages from Fort Lauderdale and St. Thomas. With Yachting Collection Savings, all- inclusive fares will start at $1,999 for a 277-square foot ocean-view suite.

Seadream Yacht Club

As in previous years, 2009 and 2010 will find the small, 56-couple, mega-yacht cruisers SeaDream I and II sailing in the Caribbean in the winter months, calling not only at vibrant port cities, but at small and exclusive seaside towns and villages where the big passenger ships can’t go. The ships will sail the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico’s Virgin Islands; French West Indies, Netherlands Antilles and the Windward and Leeward Islands, with convenient Caribbean embarkation and debarkation ports.

Silversea Cruises

Travelers should plan ahead for the 2010 Caribbean season of Silversea's brand new vessel, Silver Spirit. Beginning with a 7-day day round-trip voyage from Bridgetown, Barbados, visiting Dominica, St. Bart's, St. Kitts and Bequia, the ship, will five additional voyages, ranging in length from nine to 14 days. Silversea also offers a variety of golf programs on Caribbean/Mexico itineraries as well as culinary theme cruises featuring celebrity chefs and cooking demonstrations.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises premieres a new seven-day St. Martin roundtrip itinerary this season on the 148-guest Wind Spirit. Each week from December through March, Wind Spirit will sail roundtrip from St. Martin offering guests pristine beaches, lively island culture, lush tropics and additional daytime sailing. Port of calls include St. Kitts, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and St. Barts. The 312-guest Wind Surf offers seven-day roundtrip sailings from Barbados.

For more information on Caribbean cruises, please visit CLIA’s Web site at www.cruising.org.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America’s largest cruise industry organization., representing the interests of 25 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies.

Weddings Afloat: A Growing Trend

The popularity of weddings on board ships has increased rapidly, whether it is on a seagoing vessel or a riverboat cruising some of Europe’s fivers. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines report increases of as much as 60 percent in the last decade. To deal with this trend, more cruise lines are offering shipboard wedding packages, amenities and wedding-planning services. Many of these shipboard marriages are performed by the ship’s captain.*

Couples have gotten the message that a cruise can be the setting for an ideal destination wedding – an easily planned, fully-personalized marriage ceremony, reception and honeymoon all rolled into one convenient package. The options are boundless: a shipboard wedding on embarkation day followed by a honeymoon for two; a shoreside wedding on a tropical beach; or a sunset marriage ceremony at sea with everyone in the wedding party enjoying the entire cruise are among the many choices.

Whatever the plan – a wedding close in the Caribbean or Bahamas on one of the newest and largest ships in the CLIA fleet or on an all-suite luxury vessel in Europe or the South Seas – couples and wedding planners will find outstanding value at every price level, often with costs significantly less than a similar land-based wedding and reception. It is even possible to charter an intimate luxury yacht or elegant river cruise ship and have total control over all the details, even the itinerary. And, besides weddings, many CLIA lines offer honeymoon and vow-renewal packages, bachelor and bachelorette parties, even programs for “popping the question” – the ultimate engagement party at sea.

To gauge the significance of the cruise wedding market and its trends, CLIA recently surveyed those who sell approximately 90 percent of all cruises. More than three hundred travel agents provided their input on whom they are booking destination weddings at sea for and what their wedding clients are looking for. Here are the highlights of the findings:

Almost 40 percent of travel agents have sold shipboard or destination wedding cruises

Cruise weddings are getting more popular: Travel agents report booking more day-of-embarkation wedding cruises (18.3 percent); more shipboard weddings with guests going along for the cruise (22.1 percent) and more in-port weddings during the cruise (18.3 percent). Over 60 percent of agents report their cruise wedding business has increased in the last two years

The best reasons to have a cruise wedding? Almost 35 percent of agents say their clients want to combine a wedding with a honeymoon; more than 23 percent said value offered by cruise lines was the top reason. And for romance, more than 80 percent of agents rank the Caribbean or Bahamas destination an overwhelming favorite among their cruise wedding-clientele.

The typical wedding cruise is a seven-day voyage in the Caribbean and/or The Bahamas, on a large cruise ship with less than ten guests in the group. However, almost 30 percent of agents report booking wedding groups of 10 to 20 guests and over 10 percent book wedding parties of 20 to 30, and some cruise lines have reported wedding parties of as many as 200 attendees. The typical cruise wedding clientele are mid-priced travelers aged 44 or younger who book eight to 10 months ahead

Here is a sampling of how CLIA member lines cater to bridal couples and other romantic travelers:

Azamara Cruises

Azamara offers legal, captain-led wedding ceremonies, vow renewals and in-port wedding programs. Partnering with The Wedding Experience, a variety of packages feature everything from private receptions in the ship’s specialty restaurant to cake, champagne and more. Guests should book in advance to ensure processing of legal documents and licenses.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Some 2,300 couples will take advantage of Carnival's all-inclusive wedding packages this year, a 50 percent increase from a decade ago. Carnival's wedding programs include an official civil ceremony, reception and other value-added features and can be tailored to the couple's wishes. Shipboard ceremonies are available on embarkation day in Carnival's U.S ports and many Caribbean destinations. Vow-renewal packages are also available.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity’s most popular wedding package is the “Nautical Nuptials” program featuring a captain-led wedding ceremony at sea offered on all Celebrity ships except Celebrity Xpedition, which does not have British registry*. Other packages available include a “Bridesmaids’ Tea Party,” a “Cigar and Cognac Party,” a “Test the Waters” package and a “Welcome Reception.” Vow-renewal celebrations are also offered.

Costa Cruises

Costa’s cruise weddings take place while the ship is in port, either onboard or on land, with the company’s wedding planners taking care of all the details. Couples may invite guests to join the full cruise or simply spend the wedding day with the bride and groom. Among the choices are a “Caribbean Island Wedding” in a beach or garden location, or an “Italian Shipboard Wedding” in keeping with Costa’s romantic heritage.

Crystal Cruises

Crystal offers captain-led wedding-vow-renewal ceremonies and it is rare that one of the company’s ships sails without at least one honeymoon couple. Focusing on helping guests plan and enjoy a completely customized honeymoon rather than a pre-packaged program, Crystal offers such romantic options as a candlelight dinner on a suite’s verandah, onboard florists, a portrait studio and private shore excursions.

Disney Cruise Line

Guests on Disney Cruise Line ships can exchange vows onboard the ship or step ashore for a romantic beach-side ceremony on the line’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. With a magical Fairy-Godmother functioning as wedding planner, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings handles all the details, including floral arrangements, elegant cakes and Champagne toasts. For many couples, Disney is also the ultimate honeymoon experience.

Holland America Line

Holland America offers a Wedding Package as part of its Group Advantage Program (GAP). The wedding couple enjoys a free stateroom upgrade and a commemorative wedding cake with at least eight staterooms booked and the entire group enjoys numerous amenities, including a Pinnacle Grill lunch, private wine tastings, and chocolate-covered strawberries and Chase Limogere Brut in their staterooms.

MSC Cruises

MSC offers a variety of amenity packages to enhance cruise honeymoons and other romantic occasions. These range from a bottle of Asti Spumante and a special fruit basket or a bottle of Ferrari Perle and cold canapés, to a “Romantic Sunrise” – Champagne in commemorative flutes, orange juice and pastries – to a “Romantic Sunset” – Champagne in commemorative flutes and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers two wedding packages – “Onboard Aisles” and “On Shore Aisles” – available in ports in the U.S., Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico and Bermuda. Both include a ceremony conducted by a local official plus all the features of a wedding, from music to wedding cake and sparkling wine. Norwegian also offers vow-renewal packages and an “Engagement Aisles” program for the ultimate proposal at sea.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

French Polynesia in the South Seas is the setting for “A Lifetime of Memories” as the staff of Paul Gauguin create an unforgettably romantic event for honeymooners or those celebrating an anniversary. Among the features are a celebratory bottle of Champagne, a Polynesian blessing ceremony performed by Les Gauguines, an exclusive pillow gift, and a photo portrait.

Princess Cruises

Princess pioneered weddings at sea more than a decade ago, and since then ship captains* have married thousands of couples while sailing in locations around the globe. The unique "Tie the Knot at Sea" program offers ceremonies in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Alaska and other exotic locales, which couples can customize with live music, flowers and reception options. In addition, a harborside option enables couples to be married in port, and ashore weddings are available in a variety of scenic ports.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Guests wishing to make customized wedding plans in conjunction with a Regent Seven Seas cruise may use the services of Royal Ocean Events, which can handle all the details and requests. A honeymooner package features a letter of congratulations from the captain, Veuve Clicquot Champagne and caviar, in-suite canapés every afternoon, a miniature wedding cake and Leonidas chocolates and more.

Royal Caribbean International

In addition to a “Royal Romance” package featuring a one-hour wedding ceremony onboard ship or on shore on embarkation day, couples on Royal Caribbean can exchange vows while climbing the ship’s rock walls or ice-skating or even catching the waves on the shipboard Flowrider. Shoreside wedding venues include the glaciers of Alaska, European castles, rainforests and an Italian vineyard.

Seadream Yacht Club

SeaDream offers two wedding vow-renewal ceremonies – one designed for couples only, the other for as many as 12 guests – and both conducted by the yacht’s captain. Iced Champagne and canapés, a cake and flowers add special touches to the elegance of an elegant luxury yacht experience. SeaDream points out that for couples who have completed the legal process at home, the shipboard vow-renewal ceremony can serve as a wedding.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Offering an intimate and elegant atmosphere, Uniworld's boutique hotel-style ships provide the ideal situation for couples to charter the vessel and create the wedding of their dreams. Uniworld can accommodate 82 to 160 guests, depending on the ship, and offers flexibility to customize itineraries and inclusions. Short of this, Uniworld river cruise itineraries are perfectly suited for honeymooners whether they want to explore Europe or even the treasures of the Nile in Egypt.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar invites couples celebrating honeymoons, renewing wedding vows or honoring a special anniversary to discover romance at sea. Chilled Champagne, chocolate-dipped seasonal fruit, breakfast in bed, “Time for Two” massages and elegant dinners for two at sunset are among the amenities featured on the line that has been named “Most Romantic Cruise Line” by Porthole Magazine.

* Ships registered in Malta (Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Cruises) and Bermuda (Princess Cruises), permit the ship’s captain to legally marry couples on board.

About CLIA

Cruising In Europe: New Ships And Super Savings

From the Arctic Circle to North Africa, the Baltic to the Black Sea, Iberia to Istanbul, the member companies of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) have the entire length and breadth of Europe covered. With cruises offered in every length of voyage and in all price categories, there is no easier, more comfortable way to discover the pleasures of Provence, the treasures of St. Petersburg or Venice, the Greek islands, Scandinavian fjords, the Blue Danube, the Adriatic coast and much more.

Beginning this summer and continuing through the year and into 2010, cruisers in Europe will also have the choice of some of the newest ocean-going ships and river vessels in the CLIA fleet and, most importantly, can take advantage of super savings. "On top of the already incredible value on offer throughout the industry, CLIA member lines are making Europe irresistible with phenomenal savings including two-for-one pricing, free airfare from North America, "kids sail free" plans and other incentives. Add in the opportunity to sail on some of the very newest ships and the choices for European cruising become truly exciting, whether it's a luxurious trip on legendary rivers, exploring the antiquities of Rome, Greece and Turkey, and discovering the wonders of the Baltic," said Terry Dale, CLIA's president and CEO.

Here's a sampling of what CLIA member cruise lines are offering in Europe:

AMAWATERWAYS

With Europe as its core product, AMAWATERWAYS is offering discounts of $500 per person on new bookings for several river cruises including their Legendary Danube, Blue Danube Discovery, Europe's Heartland, Black Sea, Russian Waterways, Provence and Spain and Portugal and Spain itineraries. There is a $1,000 discount on longer voyages, including the Magnificent Europe, Ultimate River Cruise and Grand Danube itineraries. The savings apply to select sailings throughout 2009.

AZAMARA CRUISES

With both its 694-guest, deluxe ships in Europe this summer and next, Azamara Cruises is poised to offer travelers unique, off-the-beaten-path vacations. With Azamara butler service in every stateroom, complimentary specialty dining, concierge-style in-stateroom amenities, no formal nights, open seating in the main restaurant and incredibly warm and personalized service, guests who vacation with Azamara in Europe will cruise in rich yet relaxed style through the Greek Isles, Black Sea, Adriatic and Ionian Coast, Icelandic Fjords, Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia, British Isles and other regions. Azamara's Europe cruises mainly range from 12 to 18 nights in length; many of these feature at least one in-port overnight stay. In 2010, the line will visit 93 European ports throughout 39 sailings in the region. Azamara also offers cruisetours - a pre- or post-cruise, fully escorted, land-based tour combined with a cruise - in Europe.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES

The new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream, the largest Fun Ship ever constructed, will debut in Europe on September 21, with a series of three 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyages from Rome (Civitavecchia) featuring seven ports: Naples, Livorno and Venice, Dubrovnik, Messina, Monaco and Barcelona. The ship will then make a 16-day transatlantic crossing from Rome with stops in Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, the Canary Islands and Bermuda. The ship will feature Ocean Plaza, an indoor/outdoor cafe and entertainment venue, and numerous other innovations.

CELEBRITY CRUISES

With Celebrity Cruises' newest ship, Celebrity Equinox, set to debut later this summer in Southampton, England, the line will offer two of its highly buzzed about Solstice-class vessels in Europe for much of its 2009 season there. Celebrity Solstice, the 2,850-guest ship that Celebrity launched in late 2008, offers 10- and 11-night Eastern Mediterranean voyages this summer, roundtrip out of Rome. When Celebrity Equinox sets sail on July 31, she will offer two one-time voyages before presenting a remainder-of-season series of 13- and 14-night "Ancient Empires" cruises roundtrip out of Rome. The stylish new class of ships offers brand-defining, industry-first features, including a half-acre Lawn Club with real, growing grass; a glassblowing show and studio developed with The Corning Museum of Glass; 10 unrivalled dining venues; widely varied entertainment, including shows with breathtaking aerial acts; and a new, spa-inspired "AquaClass" category of staterooms.

COSTA CRUISES

Known for its European character and spirit, Costa Cruises inaugurated two new ships this year, the 2,260-guest Costa Luminosa and the 3,000-passenger Costa Pacifica. The company is offering several incentives to cruise in the Mediterranean this summer. Seven-night Mediterranean sailings begin at just $549 per person and discounted air offers of up to $300 off per person are also available. Additionally, Costa features Kids Sail Free "specials.

CRYSTAL CRUISES

Crystal offers Europe-bound cruisers several ways to save this summer. An "All Inclusive-As You Wish" program provides up to $1,000 per person in spending credit to be used for everything from shore excursions to cocktails while "Celebrations Savings" features savings of up to $1,500 per person on most 2009 European itineraries. In addition, there are Business Class air add-on fares for Baltic, northern Europe and Mediterranean sailings starting at just $799. And, cruisers who sail in 2009 can save 20 percent on 2010 Crystal cruises.

CUNARD LINE

Guests booking either of two upcoming European cruises on Queen Victoria can save at least $600 per stateroom, based on double occupancy. The November 7, 2009 Wonders of the Mediterranean is a 16-day roundtrip voyage from Southampton, visiting Malaga, Palermo, Dubrovnik, Venice, Split, Corfu and Gibraltar. The ten-day Winter Wonderland roundtrip voyage departs Southampton on December 9, 2009 and will call on Hamburg, Stavanger, Oslo, Copenhagen and Zeebrugge.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

Responding to customer demand, Disney will return to Europe in 2010. Disney Magic will offer a five-month season of Northern European and Mediterranean cruises, including a 12-day Northern European Capitals voyage from Dover, England featuring an overnight in St. Petersburg and Scandinavia. An 11-night Mediterranean itinerary will feature Barcelona, Malta, Tunis, Naples, Rome, La Spezia, Corsica and Villefranche. A 10-night Mediterranean cruise also will be available.

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

Six Holland America vessels, including the newest, the Signature-class ms Eurodam, will cruise to 166 ports on 75 itineraries in Europe this year ranging from the Arctic Circle to the shores of North Africa and the Black Sea. From six to 47 days, the voyages will include 16 new ports for Holland America guests. As well as other features, guests may take advantage of free or reduced cruise fares for a third or fourth person in a stateroom, upgrade savings and 25 percent discounts on most pre-and post-cruise hotel packages.

HURTIGRUTEN

Depending on the cruise, Hurtigruten offers numerous ways to save in Europe this summer and shoulder season. First, the Norwegian Coastal Value Package featuring air, hotel, cruise and transfers for one-stop shopping. Not only that, two can sail for the price of one on select Coastal voyages from Sept - Dec. from as little as $680 per person. In addition there's the special Greenland to New York expedition aboard the luxurious MS Fram departing September 22 for only $4,249. The kicker - pay off your cruise with the Layaway Getaway, a hassle-free, no-interest monthly payment plan.

MSC CRUISES

MSC's newest ship, the 3,274-passenger MSC Splendida, debuts this summer in Europe, making seven-night Splendid Mediterranean cruises featuring Barcelona, La Goulette, Tunisia, Malta, Messina, Rome, Genoa and Marseille. Special savings include MSC's Kids Sail Free program and a Boomer/Senior Saver in Europe. On select 2009 Mediterranean and northern Europe itineraries on nine ships, boomers and seniors can save at least 60 percent. One traveler must be at least 50 years of age.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

This summer, Norwegian sails three of its newest Freestyle Cruising ships in Europe. Norwegian Gem sails a seven-day Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona; Norwegian Jade, which homeports in Europe year-round, sails a series of 12 and 14-day Mediterranean cruises; and Norwegian Jewel sails a 12-day Baltic Capitals itinerary from London (Dover), England. In 2010-2011, Norwegian will continue its largest ever deployment with three ships positioned there, but for the first time ever, NCL will homeport Norwegian Gem in Venice, sailing two different seven-day Adriatic, Greek Isles and Turkey cruises. Norwegian Jade will homeport in Barcelona sailing seven-day Western Mediterranean cruises and Norwegian Sun will sail a 12-day Baltic Capitals itinerary round-trip from London (Dover), England.

OCEANIA CRUISES

Oceania Cruises has announced its 2010 European Collection of cruises with free airfare from 20 North American gateway cities and $2,000 price reductions off of two-for-one cruise fares. Oceania will offer 34 different itineraries next year, three quarters of them brand new for the line. They include off-the-beaten path destinations in Russia, Greece, Syria, Iceland, Turkey and some of the most chic yacht harbors in France, Italy and Spain. In all, the European Collection will feature 137 ports of call stretching from the ancient sands of Egypt and Israel to the great white lands of Iceland and the Polar Ice Barrier.

PRINCESS CRUISES

Princess Cruises will offer its most extensive European season ever this year. In total, the program will feature a six-ship fleet sailing on 90 voyages of 36 different itineraries to 132 ports and destinations. Sailing choices range from seven to 31days during a season that runs through November 30 and encompasses the entire Mediterranean and Adriatic, and western and northern Europe. Among the eleven new ports of call are Sochi, on the Black Sea; Murmansk, the largest city north of the Arctic Circle; Klaipeda in Lithuania; Barrow, for visits to England's Lake District; Ceuta, in Morocco and others.

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES

Regent Seven Seas is making the Baltic a bargain this July and August. On select sailings of the Seven Seas Voyager, guests can take advantage of free shore excursions; free roundtrip airfare in business or economy class; 35 percent Extended Early Booking savings for voyages departing July 17 and July 24; and two-for-one pricing on cruises departing July 31, August 7, August 14 and August 21. Seven Seas Voyager offers all-suite, all-balcony accommodations for 700 guests, single seating dining in four venues, complimentary beverages, including wine and spirits and more. Pricing includes all onboard gratuities.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

Royal Caribbean has announced that what is currently the world's largest ship, the Independence of the Seas, will be based year-round in Europe in 2010, sailing from a home port of Southampton, England. Independence of the Seas will lose its title to RCI's even larger ship, Oasis of the Seas arriving later this year, but will remain the largest ship sailing in Europe. It will be one of eight Royal Caribbean ships in Europe next year. Itineraries will range from four to 14 nights, with three- to five-night cruisetour vacation extensions.

SEABOURN CRUISE LINE

The Yachts of Seabourn now includes the first new ultra-luxury cruise ship to enter the market in over six years. Seabourn Odyssey has been hailed as "a game-changer for the luxury segment." The new 450-passenger vessel sails in the eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea for the rest of the summer and autumn on itineraries of seven to more than 30 days in length departing from several ports. The ship features ocean-view suites with private verandas, fine dining, the Spa at Seabourn and all the inclusive amenities and services travelers have come to expect. Seabourn Odyssey cruises are currently offered at savings of up to 65 percent off brochure fares.

SEADREAM YACHT CLUB

In Europe through October, the 50-couple SeaDream I and SeaDream II will sail seven- to ten-day itineraries in the Mediterranean, the Adriatic Sea, the Aegean Sea, even down to Tunisia. Embarkation ports include Barcelona, Seville, Tenerife, Lisbon, Nice, Monte Carlo, Rome, Venice, Athens and Dubrovnik. Specializing in visiting some of Europe's most elegant yacht harbors, SeaDream has added numerous new ports of call in France, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece and the Azores to the 2009 schedule. Travelers can currently take advantage of all-inclusive fares representing as much as 58 percent savings.

SILVERSEA CRUISES

Silversea Cruises has added 37 voyages that qualify for its $1,000 per suite "Onboard Spending Credit" promotion. Valid without limitation for spending onboard the ship or for shore excursions, the credit may also be combined with other discount programs including the Early Booking Incentive, an Advance Payment Bonus, Silver Sailing cruises, and free air programs. Silversea's European schedule includes a new offering: a seven-day cruise on Silver Whisper departing September 12 from Istanbul to Athens. Silver Sailing fares feature a savings of 50 percent, plus free or reduced roundtrip economy air transportation from select North American cities.

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISES

Offering river cruises throughout Europe and in Africa and Asia, Uniworld introduces two new ships in 2009 - the River Beatrice arrived in March and sails the Danube River; and the River Tosca will debut in late September to make voyages along the historic Nile in Egypt. The company has added several new European itineraries, many combining Paris with river travel to Germany, Austria, even Romania. Uniworld is currently offering exceptional savings on many of their 2009 cruises, including two-for-one specials, single supplement waived, and special end of the season savings. Uniworld has also introduced a generous Pay-In-Full Savings program with up to $2000 per stateroom savings on their 2010 Europe river cruises.

WINDSTAR CRUISES

Windstar Cruises is offering inclusive air from New York on select 2009 Europe sailings booked by July 31 and is also offering a $500 per couple shipboard credit for guests who book a 2010 cruise by September 30, 2009. Sailing April through October and into early November, the seven-day voyages on three ships--Wind Surf, Wind Star and Wind Spirit-depart from several ports including Venice, Rome, Barcelona, Athens, or Istanbul and encompass most of the Mediterranean. Windstar offers a luxurious sailing experience carrying no more than 312 guests, making it easy to visit some of Europe's most intimate harbors.

For more information on cruises to Europe this year, visit CLIA's website at www.cruising.org.

About CLIA

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information of CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

CLIA Member Lines Offer Variety Of Alaska Cruises

Every destination visited by the ships of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has its own special character and personality. The Caribbean is all about tropical beaches and sensuous indulgence. Europe is history, sophistication and cosmopolitan charm. And, then there is Alaska.

America's Last Frontier – the "Great Land" – is like nowhere else on earth. Wild, expansive, magnificent in scale and natural beauty, its boundaries seem limitless and visitors are constantly reminded of the immensity and power of Mother Nature. Cruising through sweeping bays and steep fjords

Prince William Sound

against a backdrop of giant glaciers, even a cruise ship seems tiny. As spring bursts into summer, this is what travelers from around the world come for – the unique experience of Alaska, thoroughly enjoyed in the comfort and luxury of a cruise. With new itineraries, ports, land options and special offers by member lines of CLIA, there has never been a better time to visit.

Alaska cruises are offered in varying lengths from ports all along the West Coast, from California to British Columbia to Alaska. Most lines also feature extensive land programs to ensure that the full offerings of the destination are appreciated, whether it's by dog sled, floatplane, jetboat or steam train. For 2009, cruise lines are making all this even more irresistible with added-value and special pricing, even, in some cases, two-for-one offers.

Here is a sampling of Alaska cruises offered in 2009:

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival's Alaska season begins May 13 with the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit embarking for Glacier Bay and the Last Frontier. The week-long Glacier Route voyages operate either northbound from Vancouver to Whittier/Anchorage or southbound, with stops in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka plus cruising Prince William Sound, College Fjord and the Inside Passage. Carnival Spirit also will make three round trip voyages from Vancouver to Glacier Bay, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with two days cruising the Inside Passage.

In each Alaska port, Carnival passengers have the option to engage in numerous shore excursions, from kayaking, canoeing and steam train adventures to rafting, horseback riding and flightseeing.

Celebrity Cruises

Three ships – Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Mercury and Celebrity Millennium – will sail Alaska in 2009 from a total of five ports. The itineraries include the first roundtrip Alaska cruise from Los Angeles, a 14-night voyage to Seattle and Victoria, British Columbia plus five stops in Alaska. Celebrity also offers the line's first 10-night roundtrip cruise from Vancouver; a series of seven-night sailings featuring Hubbard Glacier, with roundtrips from Seattle and Vancouver and one-way voyages between Vancouver and Seward.

Celebrity offers more than 20 cruise tours featuring a wide variety of destinations, including rail travel on the Whistler Mountaineer Coast Classic, Calgary, Banff, Denali and more.

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises returns to Alaska for the first time since 2005 with an early season itinerary departing Yokohama on April 16. The 22-day voyage also marks the first time Crystal Serenity has ever visited Alaska, with calls at Dutch Harbor, Kodiak, Seward and Ketchikan.

Land programs called Crystal Adventures will highlight the region's scenery and wildlife, with zip-lining in the Tongass National Forest, flightseeing wildlife tours, puffin expeditions, yachting off Kodiak to view Alaska's sea life and cruising across Resurrection Bay into Kenai Fjords National Park.

Holland America Line

With more than 60 years experience in the region, Holland America will have eight ships in Alaska this season sailing three different itineraries. These include seven-day Alaskan Explorer roundtrip cruises from Seattle; seven-day Glacier Bay Inside Passage roundtrips from Vancouver; and seven-day Glacier Discovery voyages between Seward and Vancouver. With more than 250 optional land excursions, the line's itineraries are planned so that even CruiseTour guests who are on board only three days will visit a tidewater glacier.

Among its extensive CruiseTour offers is Holland America's 17-day Voyage of the Glaciers CruiseTour which combines two cruises with inland options as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL has three Freestyle Cruising ships sailing in Alaska this summer from May through September. Norwegian Pearl will sail a seven-day Glacier Bay cruise from Seattle. Norwegian Star and Norwegian Sun will offer seven-day voyages to Sawyer Glacier departing from Seattle and Vancouver respectively.

Denali National Park is featured on a four-night pre-cruise "Discover Denali" package that includes a first class hotel stay in Anchorage, motorcoach and rail sightseeing, tour guides and airfare back to the guest's embarkation port.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises will offer seven-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" Gulf of Alaska cruises between Vancouver and Whittier featuring Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and College Fjord as well as seven-day roundtrips from Seattle featuring Tracy Arm. In addition, the 680-passenger Pacific Princess will sail on 14-day voyages from Seattle, with stops at Kodiak, Valdez, Icy Strait Point, and Seward as well as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Victoria and Glacier Bay. Sea Princess will offer varying itineraries on 10-day roundtrips from San Francisco.

Princess' Alaska Cruisetours combine the Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with land options ranging from three to nine nights, featuring two nights in the Denali wilderness area, plus the unique Direct to the Wilderness rail service.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas will position the 700-passenger, all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner in Alaska this season between May and September. The ship will make seven-night voyages between Vancouver and Seward featuring Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Tracy Arm, Juneau, Ketchikan and cruising the Inside Passage. The ship will also offer a seven-night roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver with two days of cruising the Inside Passage and visits to Ketchikan, Tracy Arm, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka.

Regent Seven Seas is offering two-for-one savings on most Alaska cruises, as well as free roundtrip economy airfare and free unlimited shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean International

In its 20th consecutive Alaska season, Royal Caribbean will offer different itineraries ranging from seven to fifteen nights on sailings from San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Seward and Vancouver. Guests will sail aboard one of three Royal Caribbean ships: Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Radiance and Serenade feature 10-story glass-enclosed Centrums for spectacular views of the coastal landscapes. Itinerary highlights include Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm, Sawyer Glacier and Icy Strait Point.

Royal Caribbean offers 21 cruise tour options, including a seven-night overview of Alaska's interior, including Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage and Talkeetna.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea's all-suite, 382-passenger Silver Shadow will set course for Alaska in May to offer 12 voyages ranging from seven to 12 days with round-trip or open-jaw departures from San Francisco, Seward and Vancouver. Highlights of the itineraries include the Tracy Arm fjord and twin Sawyer Glaciers as well as Misty Fjords National Monument.

New Silversea land programs in Alaska this year include a "Champion Alaska Huskies" dog-sledding experience with Iditarod race champion Martin Buser; a "Wilderness Retreat" escape to two of Alaska's premier remote lodges for hiking, floatplane sightseeing, jet boating and fine dining.

For more information on CLIA and Alaska cruises, visit www.cruising.org.

About CLIA

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

CLIA Member Lines Make Offers Too Good To Resist

Even in the best of times, cruises represent outstanding value; in fact, consumer and travel agent surveys consistently cite value for money spent as the number one reason to take a cruise. Today, when budgets are tight, value is even more important. Factor in the money-saving offers currently available from the member lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and there is only one conclusion to be made: there has never been a better time to take a cruise vacation.

Cruise value begins with inclusive cruise pricing that typically covers accommodations, meals, entertainment, use of many of the ship's recreational facilities and travel from destination to destination – sometimes as many as six during a one week cruise. Whatever else the traveler spends is optional and easily budgeted for in advance. But other factors also contribute to the value of a cruise.

Cruise vacations are available in every length, on ships of every size, in every part of the world – and in every price category. Cruise passengers pack and unpack once during their vacation and have no worries about catching planes and trains, or finding the right hotels or restaurants, or the need to communicate in languages they do not understand. The value of ease and comfort of travel may not be easily quantifiable but for many travelers it ranks right up there with price.

What all this adds up to is that there is a cruise for every budget, taste, interest and time schedule. And, with almost 30 ports of embarkation here in the U.S., millions of travelers can even drive to their ship, thus saving the cost and inconvenience of flying.

These are some of the reasons why a cruise adds up to great value. Now, there are more: CLIA member cruise lines have just announced special recession-busting offers that make cruising truly irresistible. Here is a sampling:

AMAWATERWAYS: Free airfare from the U.S. for nine European river cruise departures during April.

American Cruise Lines: An Early Bird savings program offers $400 per stateroom when reservations made three months in advance.

Azamara Cruises: Low fares and 50 percent reduction in deposits.

Carnival Cruise Lines: An Early Saver program offering as much as 25 percent off on bookings made up to three months prior to sailing for cruises of five days or less and up to five months prior to longer sailings, including rate protection in case rates later drop further.

Celebrity Cruises: Low fares and 50 percent reduction in deposits.

Costa Cruises: Free upgrades, up to $200 onboard credits per cabin, Kids Sail Free specials and 60% savings on Europe 2009 sailings with its "So Much More Amore" promotion.

Crystal Cruises: Up to $1,500 in savings on Mediterranean and Baltic cruises and up to 50 percent off on "Value Collection" cruise departures; in addition, guests who book most 2009 voyages by March 31 receive 20 percent off most sailings in 2010. Crystal also offers free one-way airfare for spring Panama Canal cruises, free air upgrades with most Europe cruises, and a "Crystal Family Memories Program" featuring one complimentary berth for every 10 full-fare berths. The line also features deposit reductions, relaxing of cancellation policies, and further savings on bookings 180 days in advance.

Cunard Line: Transatlantic Crossings on Queen Mary 2 start at $795 per person, double occupancy. In addition, starting with Queen Mary 2's April 26 Transatlantic voyage, guests can book a Queens Grill suite for the price of a Princess Grill suite when traveling on a six-day Crossing (subject to availability). Fares start from $3,545.00 per person, based on double occupancy.

Disney Cruise Line: Guests 12 and under sail free on most three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder from March 12 through May 28.

Holland America Line: A Vacation Stimulus Plan featuring low fares, 50 percent reduction on deposits and cruise tours; and 25 percent savings on the standard cancellation protection plan.

Hurtigruten: Two for one pricing on selected voyages, free upgrades, senior discounts, and a layaway payment plan.

MSC Cruises: Kids 17 and under sail free on all MSC Cruises when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults; A "Suite Deal" features savings of almost 50 percent on selected MSC Lirica 10-night Caribbean itineraries; savings of up to 50 percent for Baby Boomers and seniors on Caribbean sailings; "Senior Saver" rates of more than 60 percent off for European itineraries; and free balcony upgrades on selected European cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Families who book a cruise from February 2 through March 15, 2009 on any sailing can take their kids for as low as $99 each, and also receive up to $250 in on-board credit.

Oceania Cruises: A 5th Anniversary Celebration of Savings features up to 72 percent off on selected 2009 European and 2010 Winter Season voyages as well as price reductions, shipboard credits, free air, two-for-one cruises and free prepaid gratuities on selected 2009-2010 winter cruises. Other savings include 25 percent single supplements and 50 percent reductions for third and fourth passengers in a cabin.

Princess Cruises: "Balcony Bonanza" offers a balcony for the price of an oceanview stateroom – representing a savings of up to $1,200 per cabin. The Balcony Bonanza promotion applies to bookings made through February 28, 2009 on most 2009 summer sailings to Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Ultra-Inclusive voyages featuring free air, two for one fares and free shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean International: $200 onboard credit for Alaska cruisetours, $300 onboard credit for Europe cruisetours, low fares, and 50 percent reduction in deposits.

Seabourn Cruise Line: "Inaugural Celebration Savings" of $1,000 per suite on top of early booking savings of up to 50 percent on all seven-day Mediterranean cruises in 2009; "Inaugural Celebration Savings" of $1,500 per suite plus early booking savings of up to 45 percent on northern Europe/Scandinavia cruises; and a "Between Friends" savings of $1,500 in shore arrangements per couple for guests who book three suites.

SeaDream Yacht Club: A "Cancel for any Reason" policy with no cancellation fees.

Silversea Cruises: For 2009, there is an early booking incentive featuring discounts of up to 30 percent, plus an additional 5 percent in Advance Payment Bonus for those who pay in full six months prior to sailing; For 2010 voyages the early booking incentive climbs to as much as 35 percent, with an additional 15 percent for payments made one year prior to sailing.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: A "Pay-In-Full" (by January 31, 2009) savings of up to $2,000 per couple on European itineraries; $600 savings per couple for booking and depositing by January 31; 2 for 1 air offers for all Europe, Russia, and Egypt river cruises departing in 2009; no single supplements for a variety of European itineraries; two for one pricing on 32-day Paris & Grand European Waterways itinerary.

Windstar Cruises: 50 percent reduction in cruise deposits on all new bookings through February 28 for 2009 sailings; up to 50 percent savings on selected 2009 European sailings; and a family offer featuring a 50 percent reduction on the purchase of a second cabin.

For more information about the latest special offers from CLIA member cruise lines and to find a CLIA travel agent near you, visit www.cruising.org.

About CLIA

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 23 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

CLIA Cruise Lines Bullish On 2009 Bookings

With a track record of continued growth, the North American cruise industry is well-positioned to take on the global economic challenges of 2009. Sparked by new ships, ports, and destinations as well as innovative shipboard experiences, and a deep rooted popularity for cruising, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) members will continue to offer incredible value across the entire spectrum of cruise vacations, in all price categories. "There is no doubt that 2009 represents an uncertain environment, not

only for CLIA members but for all industries and consumers alike. However, CLIA members are confident that they will weather the challenges and emerge stronger than ever, as they have before. This is an industry that plans ahead and invests in the future, as evidenced by the impressive number of new ships on order through 2012, and one that will contribute positively to the country's economic revival," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "The remarkable diversity and variety of cruises give consumers a unique opportunity to find a vacation that fits their budget even during these economic downturns and we expect that North Americans, Europeans and travelers from all over the world will respond positively."

Industry Growth and Economic Impact

Since 1980 to the present, a period that encompasses a number of economic downturns as well as international crises, the average annualized growth of the North American cruise industry stands at 7.4 percent. An estimated 13.2 million travelers cruised in 2008, up from 12.56 million in 2007. As compared with the CLIA member line passenger volumes of 7.2 million in 2000, annual passenger volume has increased 79 percent in the past eight years. North Americans accounted for 10.15 million passengers in 2007 and the number of internationally sourced cruise guests is growing dramatically year over year. Through the third quarter of 2008, CLIA lines saw a 30 percent annual increase in international passengers, and year-end estimates are that 3.05 million internationally sourced guests will sail on a CLIA member cruise line representing 23 percent of CLIA's global cruisers. CLIA further estimates that in 2009, 13.5 million people will cruise, an increase of 2.3 percent.

At the same time, the North American cruise industry continues to make a significant contribution to the American economy, posting more than a six percent economic impact growth rate (2007 over 2006). The cruise industry generated $38 billion in total U.S. economic output in 2007, the latest figures available. The industry is generating business development and investment, job creation and spending in all 50 states, creating more than 350,000 jobs nationwide in 2007 alone. Direct spending in the U.S. in 2007 on goods and services was more than 18 billion dollars, a 5.9 percent increase over 2006.

According to CLIA's 2008 Cruise Market Profile, almost 34 million Americans intend to take a cruise within the next three years. More than 94 percent of all cruisers rate their cruise experience as satisfying with 44 percent claiming the highest "Extremely Satisfying" ranking making a cruise among the very best in meeting and exceeding guest expectations. Although the global economic crisis may have an impact on consumer intentions, these statistics give the cruise industry confidence that demand for cruising will continue to be strong, according to Dale.

New ships

In 2009, the CLIA fleet will welcome 14 new vessels, at a total cost of $4.8 billion USD ranging in size from 82 passengers to 5,400 passengers and offering a wide range of cruise experiences including coastal and river voyages, Caribbean and European itineraries and journeys to all parts of the world. The new ships include:

American Cruise Line: Independence, 104 passengers (August)

AMAWATERWAYS: ms Amadolce, 148 passengers (April) and ms Amalrya, 148 passengers (late 2009)

Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Dream, 3,646 passengers (September)

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Equinox, 2,850 passengers (summer)

Costa Cruises: Costa Luminosa, 2,260 passengers (June) and Costa Pacifica, 3,000 passengers (June)

MSC Cruises: MSC Splendida, 3,300 passengers (July)

Pearl Seas Cruises: Pearl Mist, 210 passengers (July)

Royal Caribbean International: Oasis of the Seas, 5,400 passengers (autumn)

Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Odyssey, 450 passengers (June)

Silversea Cruises: Silver Spirit, 540 passengers (November)

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection: River Beatrice, 160 passengers (March) and River Tosca, 82 passengers (April)

As these vessels are added in 2009, three ships will leave the CLIA fleet (to be transferred to other companies) - the Celebrity Galaxy, MSC Rhapsody and NCL's Norwegian Majesty. The net berth increase for the CLIA fleet in 2009 will total 18,031 beds, or 6.5 percent, by year end. Factoring in the ship delivery dates and actual operating days, annualized CLIA member line capacity increases by 4.8 percent.

Growth markets

The coming year will see continued diversification and global expansion of cruise operations. While the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe remain the dominant markets, many CLIA member lines have announced plans to increase their presence in other parts of the world, including Asia, Canada/New England, the Indian Ocean and Africa, the Amazon and Brazil, the Middle East and the Arctic regions, including Newfoundland and Greenland. Within Europe there will be new cruise opportunities in the UK, Scandinavia and northern Europe and Eastern Europe. There will be greater choice in world cruises and transatlantic itineraries as well.

Examples of newer or emerging ports around the world: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain (the Arabian Gulf); Mumbai (India); Hvar, Korcula, Sarande (Adriatic); Sihanoukville (Cambodia); Iles Des Saintes (Guadeloupe); Sylt (northern Europe); Komodo (Indonesia); Puerto Rico's "Virgin Islands;" Cooper Island, Coconut Grove, Turks and Caicos (Caribbean); Rovinj (Croatia); L'Ile-Rousse (France); Ischia, Cinque Terre and Puglia (Italy); Bonne Bay (Newfoundland); Itajai, (Brazil); Batumi (Georgia); Maputo (Mozambique); Ashdod and Haifa (Israel); Koper (Slovenia); and other ports along the Dalmatian Coast, in Japan and Korea and Indonesia.

Of particular significance for value-seeking consumers is the fact that CLIA member cruise lines offer cruises from more than 30 domestic home ports along the East, West and Gulf Coasts and major rivers in Canada and New England and the American Midwest and West. Over half the U.S. population is within driving distance of a cruise departure port. These "Close to Home" embarkation ports, providing the ability to drive to a cruise, further represent an opportunity for significant savings by eliminating the cost of airfare.

Shipboard innovations

Cruise vacationers can expect a continuing evolution of shipboard facilities and amenities in the coming year, including full-scale seagoing aquaparks; luxury spas with exclusive spa suites; increased choice and flexibility in dining; and facilities, including pools and recreation areas dedicated to adults, teens or children. Some lines have enhanced or expanded golf programs featuring courses in many parts of the world and most continue to create opportunities for guests to stay "connected" while at sea, with Wi-Fi capabilities and other state of the art technology.

Cruise trends to watch for

-- Fuel supplements: After instituting varying fuel supplement policies in 2008 in response to extreme jumps in oil prices, the majority of CLIA members lines have now dropped the supplements for cruises in 2009 and 2010 (specifics and restrictions vary with each line).

-- Booking patterns: While historically the majority of cruises are booked five to seven months ahead, the current economic climate has shortened that lead time. While still booking a cruise vacation, consumers are deferring the booking commitment closer to the sailing date

-- Budget offers: Many CLIA member lines have responded to the economic crisis with hard-to-resist offers and special promotions. Depending on the company, these include: kids sail-free plans, special prices on selected itineraries, enhanced shipboard credit offers, layaway and other flexible payment plans, free airfare and/or shore excursions, adjusted deposit requirements, special small group booking offers, and relaxed cancellation policies.

--International sourcing of passengers: The number of internationally sourced cruise passengers on CLIA member lines increased by 30 percent year over year through the 3rd quarter of 2008. The percent of guests sourced from international markets in 2007 was 18.4 percent of the industry total. CLIA's estimate for 2008 is that a record 23.1 percent of guests will come from international markets. This is largely due to the fleet's expanded presence in Europe, which represents a potentially large emerging market, and the overall trend toward globalized cruise operations. While this may vary by line, overall the top international passenger source market is Europe, with the top European source countries being the UK, Germany, Italy and Spain.

--Going green: As new ships are introduced, CLIA member lines are taking advantage of the latest technology to produce environmentally-friendly vessels. Even on older ships, every effort is made by many lines to conserve resources and recycle. Among the initiatives and technology being utilized: advanced wastewater purification, air emission reductions, LED lighting, solar power, high efficiency appliances, energy efficient windows, products made from recycled materials, "Eco-speed" and other environmentally-friendly hull coatings, low sulfur fuels, solid and liquid waste procession, water-pollution education programs, fuel conservation, food byproduct management and other initiatives.

--Increased focus on family and multi-generational travel: The CLIA fleet carried an estimated 1.6 million kids in 2008; many lines report that those numbers are increasing, in part due to the growth of multi-generational bookings. The increase in families cruising together is also evident in some luxury and specialty cruise lines, including coastal and river cruises. Families take many cruises and in fact, a recent CLIA survey found that almost half (46 percent) of families have taken two to four cruises with children under the age of 18; 15.2 percent have taken five to seven cruises, and 4.8 percent have taken more than ten. Families consistently cite outstanding value as their reason to take a cruise. Over 83 percent said cruise vacations are very good or extremely good value. And, the price is right. Among all family cruisers, 73.4 percent said that their last cruise was the same price or less than a resort vacation, with almost 50 percent saying that the cruise was slightly or much less costly.

--Growing group travel market: While still a relatively small percentage of total cruising, many lines report increases in the group market, spurred by multi-generational travel, girls'getaways/"mancations," civic and social groups, and by enticing, added-value group policies offered by many cruise lines.

--Use of travel agents: Despite, and in some ways because of, the Internet, cruise vacationers continue to use travel agents. Industry-wide, nearly 90 percent of all cruises are sold through travel agents, many of them CLIA members and CLIA-certified. Some lines report that agent bookings account for as much as 97 percent of total bookings.

Below are some trends and observations based on the responses CLIA received from a survey of more than 900 travel agents conducted in early January. Among the findings:

Despite the current economic environment, 92 percent of travel agents are expressing optimism for cruise sales when looking ahead over the next three years.

More than half (52 percent) expect cruise sales in 2009 to be "good" or "very good" compared to 2008 with another 28 percent anticipating a "fair" cruise sales season.

In terms of consumer interest and perceived value, cruises out-score all other types of vacations.

Among the destinations that travel agents believe will receive the most bookings this year are The Caribbean/The Bahamas, followed by Alaska, Europe/The Mediterranean, and Mexico.

By a large margin, a primary motivator for consumers' booking a cruise during the January "Wave Season" is good to extraordinary value offered by the cruise lines. In second place is consumers' love for cruising.

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About CLIA

CLIA Partners With Marketease Online™

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has teamed with MarketEaseOnline™ (MEO) to create a new suite of electronic marketing tools for CLIA's 16,000 member travel agencies and cruise lines. The partnership features free customized "WhereToCruiseNext" emails delivered to a growing database of cruise consumers. The emails will offer cruise promotions from only CLIA member lines, with the call to action directly back to the recipient's participating CLIA member agency. MEO also includes email tools for agents to create and send their own cruise email campaigns. "We are dedicated to providing resources to help our travel agency members grow their cruise business," said Bob Sharak, executive vice president of marketing and distribution for CLIA. "We know consumers are looking for value in today's marketplace and with this new product, we can help our member agencies and member lines deliver the best cruise values directly to consumers."

Through this new arrangement, CLIA and MEO will enable agents to create agency-branded cruise email campaigns, delivered on behalf of the agency directly to the client. Delivery of the emails will be a seamless process handled by ITAMS. Content and websites for customized email campaigns will be provided through the VacationPort product of Passport Online Inc. A link to a suite of email tools will be available to all CLIA member agencies at the Travel Agent Center section of CLIA website, www.cruising.org, allowing for effective and efficient marketing communications while safeguarding the confidentiality of participating CLIA members' client databases.

"We have seen excellent results with our recent expansion of the WhereToNext and TravAlert consumer email programs," said Darla Graber, president of ITAMS. "It was a natural expansion to take this program to the cruise marketplace. The agency community is embracing email marketing more every day and their consumers are responding. This new arrangement with CLIA will allow the delivery of cruise offers to agency consumers in a professional, timely electronic format and deliver new business back to the travel agents."

MEO adds easy-to-use email marketing tools that will transform an existing client database into a true marketing vehicle. Supplier content can be customized and sent to a single client or a group of potential travelers with four simple click and point steps.

MEO is a web-based CRM- and email marketing tool that allows agents to create and send email campaigns to their clients at any time, as long as an Internet connection is available. The program enables agents to create and store a client database that includes individual client profiles, with over 100 preset marketing criteria and 25 customizable fields. Cruise lines must be CLIA members to participate.

To take advantage of this new "WhereToCruiseNext" initiative, agents are requested to check out the CLIA preferred member benefits section of CLIA's website or simply click on www.MarketEaseOnline.com/CLIA.

Bloomberg Chief To Address Cruise Industry On Global Economy

With the world's most important economies hard at work seeking solutions to today's economic challenges, travel agents and suppliers are responding strongly to the opportunity to meet as an industry at cruise3sixty, April 2-6, 2009 in Fort Lauderdale. With five months to go, registrations already top 1,100 and suppliers are showing very high levels of interest in sponsorships and exhibitions, according to CLIA executive vice president Bob Sharak.

Cruise Lines International Association has tapped Daniel Doctoroff, president of Bloomberg LP and former deputy mayor of New York, to be keynote speaker at the association's industry-wide cruise3sixty conference April 2-6, 2009 in Fort Lauderdale.

Doctoroff took the position of president of Bloomberg LP in early 2008, assuming control of an information services, news and media company with over 143 bureaus around the world and 10,000 employees. Before joining Bloomberg, Doctoroff worked for the company's founder, Michael R. Bloomberg, mayor of New York, as deputy mayor for economic development and rebuilding. Prior to that he was a managing partner at Oak Hill Capital Partners, a private equity investment firm where he was responsible for the purchase of a wide variety of companies in such fields as insurance, cable television, hotels, leasing and information services. He also was instrumental in creating NYC2012, the nonprofit devoted to bringing the 2012 Olympic Games to New York.

"Dan Doctoroff's keynote address is reason alone to register for cruise3sixty 2009 but, in fact, there are many others and the industry is responding strongly and quickly," said Bob Sharak, CLIA's executive vice president. "We already have 1,100 paid registrations, with five months to go. Suppliers are showing very high levels of interest in sponsorships and exhibitions, and there is no doubt that the conference, once again, will be a record turnout. We're in a tough economy. All of us at CLIA have been highly impressed by and proud of our travel agent members who clearly are being proactive in seeking opportunities like cruise3sixty to help themselves thrive during these challenging economic times."

cruise3sixty is the cruise industry's "must-attend" annual conference and the premier event for Cruise Lines International Association. In addition to innovative general sessions with leading experts like Doctoroff, cruise3sixty features a dynamic, business-oriented trade show with one-on-one appointments, technology and destination training and cruise ship inspections. In its fifth year, the conference has steadily grown, most recently drawing nearly 1,400 travel agents, over 300 exhibitors and hosting 17 cruise ships for inspections. For more information and registration materials, visit www.cruise3sixty.com or www.cruising.org.

CLIA Cruise Lines Sail The World from More than 30 US Ports

On board Queen Mary 2 docked at Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
with Manhattan as backdrop Photo by PW Mooney
For the member companies of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), cruising is all about choice, flexibility and value. While spectacular new ships tend to grab the headlines and symbolize the remarkable growth and diversity of the industry, a quieter and very timely trend is the growth of domestic ports of embarkation to more than 30, from Anchorage to St. Augustine, Boston to New Orleans. In fact, virtually the entire population of the United States is within driving distance of a cruise.
This not only adds significantly to the convenience factor of a cruise vacation – driving to the ship and leaving the car a short walking distance away – but can also represent significant savings during times of economic uncertainty, even allowing for the high price of gasoline. "No other type of vacation offers the variety of experiences – worldwide destinations, diverse itineraries, varying cruise lengths, types of ships, different onboard experiences, and shore side activities – that the CLIA fleet provides," said Terry Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "The aim is to enable every vacationer to choose the cruise that is exactly right for individual tastes, interests and budget. A big part of that for millions of travelers is having a departure port close to home."
When the modern cruise industry began in the 1960's, the vast majority of voyages departed from a handful of big city ports, notably New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Today, cruisers can choose an itinerary from such East Coast embarkation points as Bangor, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Norfolk, Charleston, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Passengers embarking in the New York metropolitan area have three ports to choose from: Manhattan, Brooklyn and across the Hudson River in New Jersey. On the West Coast the choices include four ports in Alaska, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. On the Gulf Coast, cruisers can opt for such cities as Galveston, New Orleans, Mobile and Tampa.
Equally significant, the cruises offered from these domestic ports represent the entire spectrum of the cruise experience: Large ships and small; the newest vessels; itineraries in Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, the Bahamas and the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, even transatlantic and world cruises and adventure voyages. In short, consumers can find a convenient domestic port of embarkation for virtually any kind of cruise they want.
Among the some of the most popular are America's coastal and river cruises. While some of the largest CLIA member ships offer cruises along the New England coast to Canada and along the coast of Alaska, most coastal and river voyages are made with small ships that can venture well inland to places inaccessible to other vessels. Vacationers can find these cruises leaving from ports throughout the country, including virtually the entire length of the Mississippi River, on rivers along the Pacific Northwest Coast, the Intra-Coastal Waterway on the East Coast and the rivers and coastlines of New England and maritime Canada. For American vacationers the result is the opportunity to cruise the tropical islands of the Caribbean, transit the Panama Canal or explore Mark Twain's mighty Mississippi, all from a port of embarkation only a convenient and comfortable drive away.

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Cruise Excursions: The Unusual, The Elegant And The Adventurous
Walking the rooftops of Stockholm, catching lobsters in Maine, Maseratis in Monaco and bobsleds in Jamaica: anyone who thinks cruise ship shore excursions offered by members of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) consist of only half-day city sightseeing tours, is in for a huge surprise.
Today's cruise industry is all about offering variety and choice. In addition to new ships of all sizes, innovative and diverse itineraries and new worldwide cruise destinations, CLIA members have also dramatically enhanced the scope and quality of cruise vacations by offering shore excursions that are dazzling in their ingenuity and often breathtaking in their sense of adventure. And many offer luxury in the extreme.
For starters, there are reserved seats for the Monaco Grand Prix and the chance to drive one of the world's fastest sports cars through the French Riviera. There is icy champagne on the way to the Arctic Circle. There's hunting the Red Elephant of Tsavo with a camera, and sampling rare wines from one of the world's largest private collections. Cruise guests can explore the Viking ruins of Greenland or the ancient Incan treasures of South America. They can ride Harleys in the Caribbean, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia, or go biking in Croatia. In short, virtually anything an adventurous or inspired traveler can imagine doing is probably offered on a CLIA cruise line shore excursion.
Here are some examples of member lines' most unusual, newest or most popular options:

American Cruise Lines
During the summer months, passengers on ACL's Lobsterfest Cruises can board the Captain Jack, a 30-foot Downeast lobster boat to find out what it is like to be a true Maine lobsterman. The adventure includes local history, glimpses of seals, porpoise and the occasion whale, fishing poles to catch cod and mackerel and authentic lobstering, including baiting and hauling the traps.

AMA Waterways
The 12th century city of Uglich, on the banks of Russia's Voga River has great appeal in its own right but the highlight of AMA Waterways' shore excursion here is an authentic home visit and meal with a Russian family. Treated to breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea, depending on the time of day, the hours spent in cultural bonding may even include a bit of dancing. Uglich is famous for some of Russia's most beautiful churches and cathedrals, including the Church of Dimitry, dedicated to the son of Ivan the Terrible.

Azamara Cruises
One of Azamara's most interesting shore excursions is Colors, Tastes and Smells of Turkey. Offered in Kusadasi, guests visit the town of Sirince, known for its fragrant and flavorful apricots and peaches; travel through the mountainous region of Kirazi Koy to visit a local primary school and perhaps nap under a tree before a special lunch of gozleme, keskek and manti and a cup of strong Turkish coffee. For those inclined, there is also the harvesting of fruit with the local residents.

Carnival Cruise Lines
Offered for passengers in Ocho Rios and celebrating the improbable Jamaican bobsled teams of the 1980's and 1990's Winter Olympics, the Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica at Mystic Mountain is a new eco-friendly shore excursion just launched in July. It features a bobsled ride through the tropical forest, a chairlift journey over the countryside, a zip-line canopy adventure through the treetops, an island culture and heritage center, as well as dining and shopping.

Celebrity Cruises
A visit to the famous Hermitage Museum is a staple of most shore excursions in St. Petersburg but Celebrity goes one step further: Hermitage Splendour – An Exclusive Evening at the Hermitage Museum features a private tour and ballet performance after hours, when the museum is closed to the public. In addition to the incomparable art collection, the evening is highlighted by performances of the Mariinsky Theatre dancers.

Costa Cruises
One of Kenya's first and largest wildlife refuges, Tsavo National Park, is the focus of Costa's "Safari" shore excursion for passengers in Mombasa. The "game drive" is conducted in closed-top minibuses for up-close photography of the reserve's famous "Red Elephant," zebra, giraffe, buffalo, lions and leopards and includes a stop in one of the park's lodges, for more a relaxed viewing from the terrace.

Crystal Cruises
With Crystal's "Extreme Luxury" excursions on most Mediterranean itineraries, guests can slip behind the wheel and race through Italy in a private Ferrari, following a guide through the Umbrian countryside or the winding roads of Livorno and Tuscany, lunching at a five-star restaurant along the way, or motor through the French Riviera and Monaco's dramatic hills in a Maserati, Lamborghini, or a Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, one of the world's fastest grand touring cars.

Cunard Line
The Sticky Wicket Restaurant and Bar is only one feature of Cunard Line's Cricketing Legends tour for guests visiting Antigua on Queen Victoria. The program includes a visit to the Antigua Recreation Ground, home to four cricket world records; a guided tour of the new Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, venue for the 2007 World Cup; and even lunch and a visit, with photo opportunities with Sir Vivian himself or numerous other famous Antiguan cricketers.

Disney Cruise Line
For those who thought Disney was all about Mickey and Donald, there is Disney Cruise Line's Graycliff's Wine & Cheese Pairings adventure in Nassau. For guests 21 and older, the program features some of the world's finest wines and old-world cheeses at this five-star restaurant built in the 18th century. Exclusive to Disney, it is highlighted by eight tastings from one of the world's largest private collections of rare wines.

Holland America Line
Geared to those travelers who "have seen it all," HAL's "Machu Picchu, Chinchero, Maras & Moray" Encore Collection is a four-night, three-day overland adventure from the port of Arica in Chile. It includes travel by plane, motorcoach and vista-dome railcar to heights of 14,000 feet or more, with visits to some of South America's most famous pre-Columbian landmarks as well as the Huaca Pucilana Archaeological Center and the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lima.

Hurtigruten
Archaeologists believe than when Viking explorer Erik the Red first visited Greenland in 982, he spent the winter on the island of Illutalik. In fact, for visiting guests of Hurtigruten, there is much evidence of the presence of Norse settlers throughout the area. In Narsaq, passengers will explore an excavated farm estate complete with houses, stables and a storehouse. And the tour includes a visit to the ruins of a European farm and church that have been unearthed in the Dyrnaes Valley nearby.

Majestic America Line
Guests on the American Queen board the "Twainland Express" for a trip back to the age of steamboats and a young man named Samuel Clemens who, of course, went on to become one of America's most famous writers and humorists. In addition to stories about Hannibal, Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer, the excursion includes a visit to the Mark Twain Cave for a circular tour featuring the latest in cave lighting techniques and passageways carved out of limestone ages ago by underground streams.

MSC Cruises
On MSC Cruises' 2008-2009 Caribbean itineraries, the shore excursion emphasis is on adventure. Options include kayaking over coral reefs, dune buggy tours, snorkeling and diving and swimming with dolphins. In Grand Cayman, guests may learn how to Scuba dive. In St. Maarten there is horseback riding on the beach, adventures using catamarans and Swiss Army jeeps, and the Harley Davidson Experience featuring legendary models of motorcycles for island tours.

Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL recently launched a new class of private touring that offers more choices and convenience for guests wishing to explore ports of call however they want. The company's "Ultimate Touring" offers such VIP tours for small groups of two to 18 people as the "Rooftop Walk in Stockholm" – a guided walk conducted along the roofs of this historic city, visiting locations such as the Old Parliament Building, the Gamla Stan quarter and the Royal Palace.

Princess Cruises
The "Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb" takes guest along the upper span of the famous bridge on catwalks and ladders, steadily all the way to the summit – over 400 feet above Sydney harbor. From the top of this Australian icon, visitors can see the equally famous Sydney Opera House and the entire city spread out below. The tour includes a comprehensive briefing, all necessary equipment, and a safety demonstration which includes an alcohol breath test.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Augustus House and Ara Pacis is a tour in Rome offered exclusively by Regent. Among the highlights are a guided walking tour through underground levels of the ancient St. Clemente Church, each representing different centuries of the Roman Empire; a visit to Augustus Palace that, according to mythology, was the site where Romulus and Remus were found by the She-Wolf; and a tour of the Altar of Peace, or Ara Pacis, constructed by decree of the Roman Senate following conquests by Caesar Augustus.

Royal Caribbean International
Keeping up with the latest technology, Royal Caribbean offers a unique GPS Video Walking Tour of Key West. In addition to a complimentary drink at Pat Croce's Rum Barrel, guests use the handheld GPS Ranger to trigger a video and audio tour that not only provides directions but facts, myths and legends. The device can be programmed to follow a set path exploring Key West's most famous sites, or used to "roam alone." Either way it is interactive, easy to use and fun.

Seabourn Cruise Line
From Helsinki, Seabourn guests may board a private jet to visit the Lapp people of the Arctic Circle. After landing in Rovaniemi, travel is by wooden river boat northward, complete with icy champagne, for a visit to a family reindeer camp and an Arctic Circle crossing ceremony or reindeer lassoing. Featuring a traditional Lapp lunch and folk dancing, the tour also includes a visit to the Arktikum museum and science center before returning to Helsinki by jet.

SeaDream Yacht Club
Cycling in Croatia is the theme of one of SeaDream's Land Adventures from Dubrovnik. After an air-conditioned drive along the Adriatic coast, guests are met in the village of Gruda by professional staff, who provide bicycles, helmets and instruction. The almost three-hour ride winds through beautiful Croatian countryside past vineyards and along the Ljuta River where a rest stop features a choice of local fruits. For those even more adventurous, Seadream also offers rock climbing expeditions in Croatia.

Silversea Cruises
"The Perfect Dubai Experience" features limousine service to the Novotel Airport and a chartered helicopter tour of one of the Middle East's most modern and fast growing cities. Setting down on the cantilevered helipad on the 28th floor of the Burj Al Arab hotel, the tour also includes a journey of culinary splendor that begins with a simulated submarine voyage to one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, The Oyster, or Al Mahara, that features a floor-to-ceiling seawater aquarium and seafood dishes from around the world.

Windstar Cruises
Windstar's Monaco Grand Prix Package tour includes a private Welcome to Monaco cocktail reception and gala dinner onboard ship; an exclusive gift package of binoculars, an official Grand Prix program and souvenirs; reserved seating for the Formula One time trials; an exclusive Windstar reception at the H.S.H. Prince Rainier III Auto Collection Museum; and a private breakfast onboard ship before reserved seat viewing for the final Grand Prix race.

About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit http://www.cruising.org/.

New Marketing Director For CLIA Announced
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has named Jim Smith, CTIE, to the position of director of marketing. Bringing extensive experience in sales, marketing, branding, event planning and public relations to the job, his responsibilities will include managing all the association's consumer and trade marketing efforts, including agency membership and training, collateral production and development, e-marketing and Web content and trade advertising. He will also take charge of CLIA's annual National Cruise Vacation Month and World's Largest Cruise Night and other CLIA promotional initiatives and programs.

CLIA Issues Statement On Cruise Industry's Commitment To The Environment
Cruise Lines International Association reaffirmed this month the industry's continued commitment to the environment and advanced wastewater treatment management, in response to public statements concerning member cruise line operations in the Baltic Sea.
In a recent public statement, Mats Abrahamsson, Program Director of the World Wildlife Fund Baltic Ecoregion Program said, "It should be the responsibility of anyone operating a ship in the Baltic Sea to take care of their own wastes in a responsible manner."
In response, Terry Dale, President and CEO of CLIA, said:
"A recent study conducted by the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland reported that cruise ships contribute only a tiny fraction of the nutrients released into the sea – less than 1 percent.
"CLIA member companies adopted stringent wastewater treatment practices nearly a decade ago, and have operated in accordance with these practices since that time. Additionally, where available and reasonable, ships discharge wastewaters to shore facilities in Baltic Sea cruise ports. Moreover, many cruise lines have already invested hundreds of millions of dollars in advanced onboard systems that treat wastewater to the highest standards available.
"As an industry deeply committed to the protection of the environment, we look forward to continuing to work with the WWF as well as the ports, the maritime industry, land-based facilities and local government to protect the Baltic for generations to come."
Dale noted that since 2007, CLIA has worked closely with the WWF to share information and find solutions to the environmental challenges in the Baltic region. He also called for a collaborative effort to control all sources of nutrients contributing to issues in the Baltic Sea, whether from land or sea.
"A truly effective effort would include farm operations, industrial facilities and municipal wastewater treatment plants, in addition to ports and the maritime industry," Dale said.
All members of the Cruise Lines International Association operating in the Baltic Sea – and all over the world – meet or exceed the discharge standards for sewage set by the International Maritime Organization, Dale noted.
The VTT study is available online at http://www.vtt.fi/inf/pdf/tiedotteet/2007/T2370.pdf .

CLIA Urges US Senate To Act On Environmental Treaty
The Cruise Lines International Association urged on June 26, 2008 that the U.S. Senate act promptly on legislation that would permit the United States to participate fully in shaping a new international treaty to curb air emissions from commercial shipping. Without timely Senate action, the United States delegation – led by the U.S. Coast Guard – would not be permitted to vote on important amendments to the treaty, to be considered at a meeting of the International Maritime Organization in October. The treaty is known as MARPOL (Marine Pollution) Annex VI.
In a letter to Senators, CLIA president Terry Dale pointed out that the far-reaching amendments will set more stringent standards for maritime air emissions, which will provide air quality benefits for America's coastlines and port communities.
Specifically, the amendments will ban the use of ozone-depleting substances and set international standards to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
The United States has been a leader in discussions on these and other strengthening amendments, but without Senate action will not be considered an official party to the upcoming negotiations, Dale noted.
On the other hand, Senate action on implementing legislation "will send an important message that the United States does not wish to sit on the sidelines and that we are committed to sound public policy that truly benefits the global environment," Dale said.

-- Northern Europe Cruises

CLIA Releases Optimistic 2008 Cruise Market Profile Study
Driven by satisfied customers eager to travel more, despite the uncertain economy, the cruise industry is well-positioned for continued growth and success. This is one of the conclusions to be drawn from the Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) 2008 Cruise Market Profile Study released this month.
The biannual survey of American consumers, first conducted in 1986, identifies American consumer demographics, attitudes and intentions as they relate to leisure travel and specifically to cruising. Research was conducted online in March and April 2008 by TNS, a leading market research firm. A total of 2,426 U.S. residents were interviewed.
This year's findings reinforce previous studies in painting a picture of a healthy, in-demand cruise industry fueled by vacationers with broader travel interests than non-cruisers and whose satisfaction with cruising is based on perceived and realized value. In 2007, 9.57 million Americans took a cruise vacation representing 76 percent of the total 12.56 million guests carried on CLIA member cruise lines. Based on this year's study, 33.7 million Americans stated intent to cruise within the next three years.
The study also shows that travel agents, who sell the great majority of cruises, remain a vital part of the industry and are perceived by travelers as providing the best service in vacation and cruise planning. The majority of cruisers (70 percent) reported that professional designations, such as CLIA's Cruise Counselor Certification, would influence their choice in selecting a travel agent to plan and book their vacation. "Given the current economic climate, we are particularly pleased to see that American cruisers remain bullish on the industry. Their high satisfaction with a wonderfully diverse cruise product drives their intention to take more cruises. In fact, cruisers represent the ideal travel prospect, because of their broad interest in all types of travel and willingness to spend on what they perceive to be high value experiences," said Terry Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "This fact is not lost on CLIA's nearly 16,000 travel agency members who continue to be the industry's invaluable distribution system and consumers' most reliable source of assistance and service in planning and booking vacations," he continued.
Among the key findings of CLIA's 2008 Cruise Market Profile Study:
-- Consumer interest in cruising continues to be strong despite downward pressure on travel in general due to the economy and fuel costs; 77 percent of past cruise vacationers and 55 percent of vacationers who have yet to take a cruise expressed interest in doing so within the next three years.
-- CLIA survey respondents who indicated a "definite" or "probable" intent to cruise within the next three years represents almost 34 million adults from the target market (at least 25 years of age with a minimum household income of $40,000), which is good news for not only the cruise industry, but also for travel agents who can cultivate new customers.
-- 94.8 percent of all cruisers rate their cruise experience as satisfying with 44 percent claiming the highest "Extremely Satisfying" ranking making a cruise among the very best in meeting and exceeding guest expectations.
The general profile of the 2008 cruise vacationer is upscale (with a median household income of $93,000), educated (69 percent have a college degree) and the median age of cruisers is now 46 years old, down from 49 in 2006, which shows that cruise vacations continue to appeal to younger travelers.
-- Travelers most frequently name the Caribbean as their cruise destination of choice (43 percent) with Alaska, Bahamas, Hawaii, Europe and the Mediterranean/Greek islands also top choices.
-- Cruise vacationers agree (80 percent) that a cruise is a great way to sample destinations that they may wish to visit on a future land-based vacation.
-- The cruise line utilization and the consumer awareness of more than 30 domestic embarkation ports add strong inducement to future cruising: 72 percent cite additional "close to home" ports as increasing their likelihood to cruise. Respondents cited the convenience of being able to drive to the ship (71 percent), saving money by not having to purchase air travel (67 percent) and avoiding the hassles of flying to embarkation points (64 percent) as primary benefits of "close to home" cruising options.
-- Cruise vacationers are the premier leisure traveler. Cruisers travel 39 percent more per year than non-cruise vacationers, they take 2.9 annual leisure trips on all types of vacations by both land and sea (21 percent or nearly one in four of their vacations are by cruise), and they typically spend 50 percent more on their vacation travel than a non-cruise vacationer.
-- Both past cruisers (69 percent) and cruise prospects (56 percent) recognize a cruise vacation as providing very high value for the vacation dollar. Those who have experienced the inclusive nature and service of a cruise vacation rank cruising as the best vacation value.
-- Typical vacationers, including cruisers (75 percent), travel in pairs, usually with spouses, with the proportion of family travel with kids under 18 steadily growing (25 percent in 2008 from 13 percent in 2002).
-- Travelers, including cruisers, consider destination as the most influential aspect of choosing a vacation.
-- Travel agents continue to play an important role in planning and booking cruises and travel: 42 percent of respondents say agents provide the best service, up from 40 percent in 2006; 59 percent are extremely or very satisfied with agents, with overall satisfaction of 93 percent; 78 percent of cruisers use travel agents for all types of travel planning as compared to 44 percent of non-cruise vacationers.

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CLIA Member Cruise Lines Offering Northern Europe 2008 Itineraries
From the coastal villages and majestic fjords of Norway to the splendor of St. Petersburg, from the Land of the Midnight Sun above the Arctic Circle to the former Soviet capitals of the Baltic Sea, few regions of the world offer such variety of landscapes, beauty and cultural significance as northern Europe.
All of it can be enjoyed in a comfortable and often highly luxurious way - by cruise ships belonging to 16 member lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). In fact, in a part of the world where natural environments, history and culture have been shaped by the sea, there may be no better or easier way to savor it. And, thanks to inclusive pricing and current foreign exchange rates, passengers who have paid in advance in dollars are enjoying much appreciated extra value on their northern Europe cruise this summer and fall.
CLIA member lines offer northern European cruises of three days to two or three weeks in length, from embarkation ports in the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and Europe. Destinations include Ireland and Scotland; the beautiful cities of Scandinavia, including Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm; Finland, Russia and other capitals of the Baltic; Germany and Poland. There are longer voyages that encompass Scandinavia and Russia and shorter ones with a more narrow focus - the North Cape and the Arctic Circle, the coast of Norway or the British Isles. And, many transatlantic crossings in the fall of 2008 will feature ports in northern Europe as well as exotic destinations such as Iceland and Greenland.
In all, travelers will have more to choose from - in size and number of ships and itineraries - than ever before. Here are some examples of northern Europe cruises offered by CLIA lines:

Azamara Cruises
Azamara offers 12-, 14- and 16-night itineraries that feature northern Europe. One, between Barcelona and Copenhagen, combines Spain, Portugal, France, the UK, Holland and Germany with Denmark. There is a Norwegian Fjords cruise and a Scandinavia/Russia itinerary, both roundtrip from Copenhagen, as well as a British Isles voyage that features Scotland and Denmark.

Carnival Cruise Lines
This year marks Carnival's inaugural season in northern Europe. The new Carnival Splendor will offer a 12-day itinerary beginning July 13 from Dover, England that features Copenhagen, Warnemunde (for Berlin), Helsinki, St. Petersburg (for a two-day visit), Tallinn and Amsterdam. The cruise will be offered on five sailings through August 30, offering passengers an opportunity to experience some of Europe's most famous cultural treasures.

Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity will have two ships in northern Europe this year - Celebrity Century and Celebrity Constellation. Five- to 14-night itineraries feature Scandinavia, Scotland and Ireland, Russia, the Arctic Circle and North Cape, and the Norwegian Fjords. Ports of embarkation include Amsterdam, Harwich, Copenhagen, and Stockholm. Among the new ports for Celebrity this year will be Harwich, Cherbourg and Brest.

Costa Cruises
This year Costa will have three ships in northern Europe - Costa Mediterranea, Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria. Offering seven-night trips, the itineraries will feature various combinations of ports in Scandinavia, Iceland, Netherlands, Germany, France, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia and Spitsbergen, an archipelago of islands in the Arctic Circle. All three ships feature a large percentage of verandah accommodations for ideal viewing of scenery.

Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises this year will offer one seven-day and five 11-day Baltic cruises with extended stays in St. Petersburg, Russia, as well as one North Cape voyage and a British Isles itinerary. In addition to the excitement of the ports themselves, Crystal Symphony's northern European cruises will offer a choice of other features, including top classical music artists, a Tall Ships event, and golfing at top-ranked courses, even VIP access to the famed British Open golf championship.

Cunard Line
Cunard returns to the Baltic with the new Queen Victoria and a variety of itineraries in Russia and the Norwegian Fjords. The 14-day Russian Rendezvous features Zeebrugge, Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Gdansk and two days in St. Petersburg. There is also a seven-day cruise of the Norwegian Fjords and a 12-day itinerary called Voyage of the Vikings roundtrip from Southampton featuring the North Cape and numerous ports in Norway.

Holland America Line
Holland America's newest ship, ms Eurodam, will offer a series of ten-day roundtrip cruises from Copenhagen that feature Scandinavia and the Baltic, with the possibility of combining two trips for a 20-day northern Europe cruise that does not repeat a single port. In addition, the ms Prinsendam sails to the Polar Ice Cap as well as the Kiel Canal and journeys up the Thames to the heart of London. Ms Maasdam is featuring a 35-day Voyage of the Vikings cruise roundtrip from Boston.

Hurtigruten
Norway's 1,250-mile west coast between Bergen and Kirknes, above the Arctic Circle, is the setting for Hurtigruten's six themed voyages on its fleet of modern ships, which make 34 ports of call during the 12-day roundtrip sailing. Norwegian coastal voyages may also be taken on seven-day northbound and six-day southbound itineraries. The wide range of themes of onboard activities includes Singles at Sea; the culture and history of the Himalayas; Springtime Awakening to open mind, body and soul; classical music; big bands; Arctic birding; and, for the Red Hat Society, Northern Lights and Fun-filled Nights.

MSC Cruises
This year, MSC Cruises will have three ships in northern European waters, offering a variety of cruise lengths and itineraries. MSC Opera and MSC Lirica offer seven-night Russia & The Baltic and Scandinavian Fjords voyages departing from either Kiel or Copenhagen. MSC Armonia offers ten-night cruises from Dover that feature the Netherlands, Germany, Russia, the Baltic or the Scandinavian Fjords as well as the North Cape, land of the midnight sun.

Norwegian Cruise Line
In 2008, Norwegian Cruise Line will offer its largest ever deployment in Europe and, for the first time in the company's 41-year history, position a ship in the region year-round. Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Jewel, both with Freestyle 2.0 upgrades, will be sailing a variety of Northern Europe itineraries. These itineraries include Baltic Capitals and North Cape cruises with ports of call in Alesund, Kristiansund, Honningsvaag, Trondheim, Hellesylt, Geiranger, Bergen, Oslo and Stavanger, Norway; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Brussels/Brugge, Belgium; Copenhagen, Denmark; Berlin (Warnemuende), Germany; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland; Tallinn, Estonia; and Stockholm, Sweden.

Oceania Cruises
Oceania's 2008 northern Europe season includes a 14-day itinerary between Stockholm and London that features Tallinn, two days in St. Petersburg, Helsinki, Gdansk, Copenhagen, Berlin, the Kiel Canal, Amsterdam and Bruges and an overnight visit in Stockholm. In 2009, the company will offer a new Scenic Splendors and Gilded Palaces voyage between Rome and Stockholm as well as a new Vikings, Castles and Kings itinerary highlighting the British Isles and Ireland.

Princess Cruises
Crown Princess makes her European debut this year with cruises of Scandinavia and Russia, offering two itinerary options - a visit to Oslo or Berlin combined with two full days in St. Petersburg and all the delights of Scandinavia. Grand Princess offers cruises of the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and the British Isles, while Royal Princess will offer three all-new itineraries, including a sailing to the best of classical Europe between Stockholm and Rome.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas will offer ten cruises in northern Europe this year featuring Scandinavia, Russia and the Baltic. All are offered on the 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager, the only all-suite, all-balcony ship in the region. Trips include seven-night sailings between Stockholm and Copenhagen; ten-night sailings from Copenhagen to Southampton; a ten-night cruise from Reykjavik to Southampton; 11-night roundtrips from Stockholm and two 14-night itineraries. New ports of call include Sochi, Russia; Bristol, England; and Ny Alesund, Norway.

Royal Caribbean International
This year will mark Royal Caribbean's largest deployment in Europe, with seven ships visiting all parts of the continent. Jewel of the Seas will sail from Harwich, England on 11- to 13-night voyages to Norway and its famous fjords, the British Isles, Scandinavia, Russia and the cities of the Baltic. Jewel also will sail on a series of three- and four-night North Sea cruises departing from or between such ports as Amsterdam, Oslo, Hamburg and Harwich. Each voyage will feature one popular northern European city, including Copenhagen and Brussels.

Seabourn Cruise Line
The intimate Seabourn Pride sails 12 nights round trip from Copenhagen into the heart of St. Petersburg, then lingers for three full days. Tallin, Helsinki, Berlin, an overnight in Stockholm, and the charming Danish Isle of Bornholm round out this summer yachting classic. Copenhagen, likewise, is the pivot for nine-day yachting cruises of Norway's fjords. Cities like Bergen, Oslo and Aalesund are interspersed with scenic splendors such as Ulvik, Eidfjord, Gudvangen and Flaam. The Sail & Stay option adds two nights ashore in Copenhagen.

Silversea Cruises
This summer, Silversea's Silver Cloud and Silver Wind as well as the company's new expedition ship, Prince Albert II, will feature 24 different northern Europe itineraries of six to 18 days. Among the opportunities offered passengers will be sailing beneath London's Tower Bridge, docking directly in the heart of St. Petersburg, exploring Greenland's fjords and glaciers by Zodiac, a private tour of the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace in London and "cosmonaut for a day" training at Russia's Yuri A. Gagarin Space Center.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit http://www.crusing.org.

Small Ship Cruising: Seeing The World Up Close
At first glance, the American Eagle, the River Queen and the Seabourn Spirit might seem to have little in common. The first carries barely 60 guests on informal journeys
through the Chesapeake Bay, the Antebellum South and other destinations on the East Coast. The River Queen travels the legendary Rhine and Moselle rivers of Europe. And, the Seabourn Spirit and its sister ships sail the world, accommodating just over 200 passengers.
But, in fact, these ships, while representing very different varieties of small ship cruising, have important things in common, qualities that distinguish this cruise segment from all other types of travel. And, they are just three of many small ships belonging to member lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
Together, almost 50 small ships belonging to CLIA offer the opportunity to explore the world from a uniquely personal perspective. From Antarctica to the Arctic, the Caribbean to Canada, Mexico to the Mediterranean, they travel the great rivers of Europe and North America, sail along Norwegian fjords and other scenic coasts, cross oceans, explore the globe's most remote destinations, and even embark on world cruises. Their size enables a small group of travelers to go where no other cruise ships go - to the inland capitals of Europe and Asia, tiny islands in the tropics, undiscovered ports in the Middle East, remote coves and bays in Alaska, America's Intra-Coastal Waterway and much
more. The combination of out-of-the-way destinations and relatively small amount of passengers means that the lucky few onboard experience the world as though it was theirs alone to discover.
Whether the shipboard experience emphasizes sheer elegance and luxury while visiting some of the world's most glamorous yachting destinations, or a more informal yet equally delightful and comfortable lifestyle for journeying through nature's most extreme environments, all small ships have other qualities in common. They enable guests to socialize easily and share experiences with new-found friends who share their interests
and tastes. They provide a true and very satisfying sense of having a home away from home, feeling cared for by staff the guests come to know and enjoy. And, small ships virtually eliminate the hassles of travel. Getting on and off the vessel is effortless, with docking in the very center of the action of each destination or port, and sightseeing is
crowdless, often in places where there are few other visitors.
Here is a sampling of small ship cruise opportunities offered by members of CLIA:

American Cruise Lines' four ships—American Star, American Spirit,
American Glory and American Eagle—carry no more than 100 passengers and offer comfortable accommodations, a friendly informal ambiance and such amenities as onboard naturalist and historians, enrichment activities and entertainment, dining that features regional dishes and complimentary cocktails in the evening. Itineraries encompass the length of the East Coast, including the Rivers of Florida, the Antebellum
South, the Mid-Atlantic Inland Passage, the Chesapeake Bay, the Hudson River, Maine and New England Islands.

Hurtigruten, formerly Norwegian Coastal Voyage, continues to offer a variety of cruises along the 1,250-mile coast of Norway with its majestic fjords on numerous small ships as well as journeys on the Gota Canal between Stockholm and Gothenburg on three Art Nouveau vintage ships. But among the most popular offerings are voyages to Antarctica, a North to South world cruise, and Greenland Exploration cruises featuring the 310-berth MS Fram, launched in 2007 and built specifically for adventure. As they visit such remote destinations at the southern tip of the world as Marguerite Bay, Whaler's Bay, Cuverville Island and others, passengers discover that the only ones wearing tuxedoes are the penguins.

Majestic America Line offers voyages from Alaska to the Mississippi River. The intimate, 112-stateroom Empress of the North is small enough to explore the wilderness and waterways of Alaska's Inland Passage. The 142-passenger Queen of the West and the 75-stateroom Columbia Queen were built to cruise the rivers of the Northwest, including the Columbia and the Snake. And, on the mighty Mississippi, the historic, 176-passenger
Delta Queen is the last operational steam-powered sternwheeler reminiscent of those piloted by Mark Twain, while the 436-guest American Queen is the world's largest river cruise ship. In addition to capturing a romantic and unique era in American history, both glamorous ships are fully modernized for today's travelers.

Pearl Seas Cruises' first ship, as yet unnamed, will begin service in 2009 offering 214 passengers accommodations with private balconies equipped with flat screen TV/DVD systems, a well-stocked library, six lounges, a sports and exercise deck and multiple observation areas. The ship will sail on seven- to 11-night itineraries in the Caribbean during the winter months and a variety of voyages in North America during the spring, summer and fall. These include trips through the Canadian Maritimes, the St. Lawrence Seaway and Thousand Islands, a circumnavigation of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and the Great Lakes.

Seabourn Cruise Line also offers the very highest levels of luxury on its three 208-guest yachts, Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend. In 2009, they will be joined by the somewhat larger, all-new Seabourn Odyssey. With staff members almost outnumbering guests, Seabourn guests are treated to gourmet cuisine created by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, a casino and spa, all-suite accommodations, complimentary wines, spirits and champagne and such signature experiences as "Caviar in the Surf." In addition to the world cruises and transatlantic crossings, Seabourn voyages take in the entire world
from Asia to Europe to the Americas and Caribbean.

Seadream Yacht Club offers a true luxury yachting experience on two 110-passenger ships, SeaDream I and SeaDream II. Facilities and amenities include fine dining with complimentary red and white wine, a casino, library, a piano bar and Top of the Yacht bar, a Main Salon and a water sports marina offering a full range of equipment for enjoyment right off the ship. From May through October, the ships offer seven-night itineraries to classical yachting ports in the French and Italian Riviera, Costa del Sol, the Amalfi Coast, Greek Islands, and the Adriatic and Black Seas. In the winter, SeaDream visits some of the most exclusive islands in the Caribbean, including St. Barts, Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke and the Grenadines.

Silversea Cruises' new Prince Albert II is an adventure ship carrying no more than 132 guests on luxurious expeditions to the Arctic, Antarctica and many points in between. During its inaugural 2008 season it will feature special Sea of Cortez expeditions in September, complete with eight Zodiac boats for up close viewing of birds, dolphins, whales and sea lions. The company's other four larger ships also fit the small ship
category, with Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper carrying no more than 382 passengers and Silver Cloud and Silver Wind accommodating only 296. Offering worldwide itineraries, the vessels feature ocean-view suite accommodations, complimentary shoreside experiences, entertainment and onboard enrichment, complimentary beverages and in-suite beverage cabinets and other amenities for an ultra-luxury experience.

Uniworld River Cruises is the leading operator of river cruises in Europe, offering intimacy and personalized service on a variety of ships that typically carry no more than 134 guests. Combining old world elegance with modern amenities, the vessels feature expansive views of passing countryside, libraries, a lounge with full-service bar,
boutiques, a beauty salon and 24-hour coffee bar. Operating for more than 30 years, Uniworld offers itineraries on 12 rivers in 20 countries across four continents, including Europe, Russia, Egypt and China. Among the most popular European itineraries are Castles Along the Rhine, Danube Discovery, Enchanting Danube, European Jewels, Eastern Europe Explorer and Tulips & Windmills. One 17-day voyage features the Ukraine, the Black Sea and Istanbul.

Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts—Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf— known for offering a pampered luxury lifestyle and the ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of some of the world's most sought after destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the ships visit 50 countries, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe,
the Caribbean and the Americas. Windstar appeals to contemporary travelers with a casual onboard ambiance, alternative dining venues, a diversity of shore excursions, deluxe spa facilities and a complimentary water-sports program. Popular with honeymooners because of the ships' innate romantic elegance, Windstar also offers voyages through the Greek Islands and in-depth explorations of Costa Rica.

For more information about small ship cruising, visit www.cruising.org .

About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 23 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe,
secure and healthy cruise ship environment.

CLIA Enhances Travel Agent Resources With New ‘Infocentre'
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced another new feature to its online "Your Business Resource Center" for its member travel agencies and agents.
InfoCentre is a one-source service for agents to order sales and promotional materials from cruise lines and other travel suppliers. By simply accessing InfoCentre through the online, password-protected "Your Business Resource Center", agents can place orders for a wide variety of cruise lines and other travel suppliers' sales materials. Requested information is shipped by InfoCentre and delivered to the agent in two to five days, nationwide.
This demand-driven distribution model significantly reduces the waste associated with unsolicited sales materials that suppliers send to agencies. As a result, millions of brochures can be saved by simply providing agents with what they need when they need it. "CLIA is committed to making the industry greener and helping travel agents in every aspect of their business, including finding ways to improve the fundamentals of conducting business in the cruise industry," said Bob Sharak, CLIA's executive vice president of marketing and distribution. "This new one-stop resource, InfoCentre, is a great enhancement to ‘Your Business Resource Center' because it supports agents' sales efforts in an environmentally-friendly way."
"Your Business Resource Center", which offers CLIA agents exclusive access to a full spectrum of services at one web page, was launched at the beginning of the year. InfoCentre, the latest service to be added to "Your Business Resource Center", was created by Todd Travel Promotions which has worked with CLIA on a variety of projects since 1975. InfoCentre may be accessed at www.ordericworld.com and from the Business Resource Centre at www.cruising.org.

New Cities, Courses And Certification Credits For Trainingfest 2008
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced details of TrainingFest 2008, the fastest way for travel agents to earn CLIA certification credits, including new cities and new seminars. New in 2008 is the ability to earn the mandatory training credits needed during the two-day TrainingFest to become a Master Cruise Counsellor (MCC).
TrainingFest provides travel agents throughout the United States and Canada with a convenient way to earn valuable credits toward CLIA certification by attending the two-day seminar program and trade show in any of 11 cities between July and September. For the first time, participation in four seminars and attendance at the trade show will fulfill CLIA Institute requirements for MCC accreditation. TrainingFest has grown in attendance every year since it was launched in 2006, including a 10 percent increase in attendance in 2007 for a total of more than 1,200 agents attending the event throughout North America. "Along with cruise3sixty and our extensive ongoing program of online and classroom training courses, TrainingFest is a major feature of CLIA's commitment to provide all the tools and knowledge travel agents need to become expert sellers of cruises," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "The effort is a win-win situation for all of us because CLIA agents report an average increase in annual cruise sales of 261 percent after completing certification."
TrainingFest cities for 2008 include:
Houston, July 10-11
Philadelphia, July 17-18
Las Vegas, July 24-25 (New for 2008)
Cleveland, July 31-August 1 (New for 2008)
Atlanta, August 7-8
Los Angeles, August 14-15
Toronto, August 21-22
Seattle, September 4-5 (New for 2008)
Baltimore, September 11-12
Edmonton, September 18-19 (New for 2008)
Chicago, September 25-26
New seminars for this year's TrainingFest include Power Selling Techniques and Cruising…Knowing the World You Sell. Both are Level 1 courses and recommended for agents with less than two years experience selling cruises. Other Level 1 seminars this year will be: Cruise Vacations – An Introduction and Principles of Professional Selling. The more advanced level 2 seminars will include: Building a Smart Business Plan, Customer Relations Management Made Easy, Selling to Special Interests – Niche Markets, and Cruising – The Ultimate Incentive.
In addition to the seminar program, TrainingFest will feature a CLIA member cruise line trade show that provides participants further opportunities to expand their knowledge of cruise products offered by each brand.
Fees for TrainingFest range from $35 to $105 depending on the number of seminars taken and whether the agent is a CLIA member. Admittance to the trade show is complimentary for all taking at least one seminar and for a small fee for anyone not participating in the seminar program.
For more information about TrainingFest and to fill out an application form, visit www.cruising.org or call 754-224-2200.

Travel Agents At CLIA's Cruise3sixty Express Strong Optimism For 2008
The 1,500 travel agents at Cruise Lines International Association's 4th annual cruise3sixty conference and trade show in Fort Lauderdale March 7 to 9 expressed their strong optimism about sales in 2008. CLIA's 24 member cruise lines called on the sellers to take advantage of their companies' major investments in new ships, itineraries, destinations and shipboard innovations – as well as CLIA's training and education – to help build their business.
Delivering a snapshot of the industry today, Dan Hanrahan, CLIA's marketing committee chairman and president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises, told the 2,200 total delegates, "The travel agency community is bullish on the cruise industry," according to travel agent surveys conducted as recently as mid-February. An immediate interactive poll of the audience, a new feature at this year's cruise3sixty sessions, drew an optimistic response, with more than 90 percent of agents expecting as good or better sales in 2008 compared to the past year, despite a weakening economy.
Providing a glimpse of new developments in the industry, Hanrahan said there was ample reason for the optimism. By 2012, the CLIA fleet will expand by 36 ships, an investment of nearly $22 billion and representing a potential incremental increase in agent commissions of $300 million.
Hanrahan joined fellow cruise presidents during a wide-ranging panel discussion about opportunities and challenges facing the industry. Hanrahan was joined by Gerry Cahill, Carnival Cruise Lines; Carol Marlow, Cunard Line; Rick Sasso, MSC Cruises and Mark Conroy, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The theme was strategies agents can use to sustain the optimism and realize their goals.
Moderated by CLIA president and CEO Terry Dale, who frequently brought agents in attendance into the conversation through interactive instant polling, the discussion covered a number of topics, including the biggest changes in the industry in 20 years, the greatest challenge for cruise lines and ways to counter bumpy economic times. "We're not recession proof but we've certainly proved to be recession resistant," Hanrahan said.
The panelists urged agents step up their marketing initiatives, stressing the exceptional value of cruise vacations, really get to know their customers, and close the deal. "You've got to focus on promotion, be proactive and go for the close, ask for the order," Conroy said. Noting the great diversity of cruise products and experiences, the CEO's said the primary challenge was to convert land-based vacationers to cruisers. From the cruise lines' perspective, the panelists agreed that the biggest challenges were continuing to provide top quality service, including finding and retaining good personnel, and controlling costs, an issue made considerably more difficult with the cost of new ships almost tripling.
For many at cruise3sixty, one of the most popular panels was a look at the cruise industry from experts representing the future generation of cruisers. In a group discussion called "Kidding Around," six children aged seven through fifteen offered their opinions on everything from shipboard activities and food to favorite destinations. Moderated by Eileen Ogintz, whose nationally syndicated column "Taking the Kids" reaches 10 million readers, the kids debated whether spending time with family or time away from family was more fun, agreed that making new friends, doing new things and seeing new places were the best reasons to cruise and said that their personal choices and wishes were part of the decision-making process when their families planned a vacation.
On Saturday evening, CLIA hosted its annual Hall of Fame dinner where it inducted three cruise industry legends: A. Kirk Lanterman, chairman emeritus, Holland America Line; Joanie Ogg, former president of National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents (NACTA); and Donna Flora, vice president, travel industry relations, American Express. Entertainment for the evening featured four cruise line performance acts from Carnival Cruise Lines (G-Force), Celebrity Cruises (Solstice), Norwegian Cruise Line (Second City) and Royal Caribbean International (Invitation to Dance).
On the closing day of the conference, ten cruise lines showcased innovative amenities and features of their new vessels such as private spa suite accommodations, new dining options, even the first real lawn at sea. The lines included: Azamara Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International.
Agents also were briefed on the rapidly growing small ship/river cruises market. Executives from four companies – Hurtigruten, Majestic America Line, Uniworld Grand River Cruises and Windstar Cruises – and three top producing agents pointed out the opportunities to earn high commissions and develop new clientele. Together, they called on agents to take advantage of training opportunities offered by the lines and CLIA to develop the knowledge to find and retain the well-educated, experienced travelers who gravitate toward small ships and the river cruise experience.Terry Dale concluded cruise3sixty 2008 saying, "In all the change happening around us, the one thing that will never change is our need for you, our partnership with travel agents.
CLIA's cruise3sixty will return to Fort Lauderdale April 2-5, 2009, and has officially announced that for the first time, CLIA will hold cruise3sixty on the West Coast, in Vancouver, June 3-7, 2010. Registration for 2009 will open to pre-registered delegates on March 10 and to the public on April 1, 2008. Visit www.cruise3sixty or www.cruising.org for more details.

Cruise Industry Anticipates Record Year For Cruise Bookings
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the cruise industry organization for 24 member cruise lines and 16,000 travel agency members, predicted at a press meeting in New York a record year for 2008, with its member lines projected to carry 12.8 million passengers. Of the total, 10.5 million passengers will originate from North America; 2.3 million from international markets. "The cruise industry, represented by CLIA member lines and driven by new ships, innovative itineraries and ground-breaking shipboard facilities and activities, continues to demonstrate enviable strength," said Dan Hanrahan, CLIA's marketing committee chairman and president & CEO of Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises. "We anticipate that the unparalleled diversity of cruise experiences offered by our members will result in another record year for the industry."
Also newly released was the third quarter 2007 passenger carrying results and fourth quarter estimates, which revealed that CLIA member cruise lines are anticipated to have carried 12.6 million worldwide passengers last year, a 4.6 percent increase over the 12.01 million carried in 2006. Included in that forecast are 10.33 million North Americans in 2007, compared with 10.08 million the previous year. Cruise lines also maintained their high utilization rates, posting a collective occupancy factor of over 105 percent in 2007.
Adding to the excitement of cruising in 2008 will be the introduction of eight new ships and two redeployed vessels joining the CLIA fleet, representing a total increase in berths of 23,275. Taking into account the timing of ship introductions and deletions throughout the year, the actual annual increase in available net bed days—and passenger growth—is projected to be a moderate 1.6 percent. Based on known 35 new ships that CLIA will introduce from 2008 - 2012, the CLIA fleet will have a 29 percent increase in capacity from 2007, reflecting a dynamically changing capacity environment.
CLIA's optimism is supported by early reports from CLIA member travel agents on this year's Wave Season, the period between January and March traditionally known as the heaviest booking period of the year. A recent survey indicated that 90 percent of agents expect as good or better annual sales results as 2007, 60 percent of agents expect 2008 to be better than 2007, and 20 percent expect it will be their best year ever overall for cruise bookings. Almost 35 percent of respondents expect Wave Season to be their highest volume booking period although 32 percent reported that their cruise sales are generally consistent throughout the year -- which is also good news for the industry.
"With consumers typically booking at least five to six months out, Wave Season gives us a good indication of the year to come and it's looking positive," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "We are also heartened by the fact that cruise bookings and sales are increasingly strong throughout the year, extending beyond Wave Season. From all indications, CLIA member lines are having great success reaching an increasingly diverse population of vacationers -- of all ages, backgrounds and interests. And, according to the travel agents who sell nearly 90 percent of all cruises, they are strongly receptive to the extraordinary range of different experiences offered on CLIA member ships."

New Ships, Itineraries & Shipboard Amenities Shape 2008 Cruise Experience
Looking ahead to 2008, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has pronounced the state of the cruise industry to be sound, growing and diverse. "The cruise industry continues to be an amazing success story," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "CLIA lines have experienced a more than 36 percent increase in net capacity since 2002, yet maintained average occupancy to over 105 percent. In 2008, the addition of eight brand new ships as well as the reintroduction of several vessels will create new CLIA member cruise line capacity that we anticipate will be filled as increasing numbers of consumers are drawn to the remarkable diversity and variety of cruise experiences all over the world."
CLIA member lines have enjoyed an average annual passenger growth of more than seven percent since 1980. Worldwide, CLIA forecasts 12.5 million people will have taken a cruise vacation in 2007, an increase of 4.2 percent over the previous year. Of the 12.52 million 2007 cruise guests, 10.5 million were sourced from North America with over 2 million, or 16 percent, being sourced from international markets. CLIA expects the percentage of internationally sourced guests (outside of the U.S. and Canada) to increase as cruising continues to gain momentum worldwide. Combined with the increase on worldwide capacity, the actual number of international guests has increased four-fold since 1995.
New Ships: Between 2008 and 2012, 35 new cruise ships will be introduced, an investment of more than $21 billion. By the end of 2007, the CLIA fleet had exceeded 175 vessels, of which more than 100 were built since 2000. This year CLIA will welcome eight new arrivals from its member lines:
-- Royal Caribbean International's Independence of the Seas, with a capacity of 3,643 passengers —May
-- MSC Cruises' 2,550-passenger Poesia – May
-- Carnival Splendor, carrying 3,006 passengers – July
-- Holland America's 2,104-passenger Eurodam - July
-- Pearl Seas Cruises' 210-passenger ship (to be named) - July
-- Princess Cruises' 3,100-passenger Ruby Princess - November
-- Celebrity Solstice, carrying 2,850 passengers - December
-- MSC Cruises' 3,300-passenger Fantasia – December
In addition, Silversea Cruises will refurbish and re-introduce its recently purchased Silver Dawn carrying 132 guests on adventure voyages. Also, Norwegian Cruise Line will transfer Pride of Hawaii from its NCL America inter-island Hawaii itinerary and rename the ship Norwegian Jade to sail in the NCL fleet in Europe during the summer of 2008.
In addition to the new build and reintroduced vessel capacity increases, net capacity is moderated by known deletions in the CLIA fleet via vessel sale or transfer including:
-- Orient Lines – Marco Polo, 848 Guests (March)
-- Royal Caribbean International's Empress and Sovereign of the Seas – 3,894 guests (March/October)
-- Carnival Cruise Lines – Celebration – 1,486 Guests (April)
-- Majestic America – Delta Queen, 174 Guests (November)
-- Cunard QE2 – 1,791 guests (November)
Collectively, the 2008 vessel additions and the known deletions as of December 2007 represent a net increase in 2008 bed day capacity of 2.6 percent.
Growth in new markets: In addition to the perennially popular Bahamas/Caribbean, Alaska and Mexico cruise markets, the big news in the industry is the continued strong growth in European cruises – the Mediterranean and Adriatic, Iberia, northern Europe, Scandinavia and the Baltic region. Many CLIA member lines are significantly increasing their capacity in Europe, including year-round deployments of large capacity ships and the introduction of new ships straight out of the shipyards of Europe. With cruising considered a relatively "new concept" – it is estimated that only five percent of Europeans have taken a cruise vacation – some CLIA members are also establishing their own European brands targeting the Spanish, French, German and UK markets.
The cruise boom in Europe has also fueled the development of new itineraries and ports of call in the region. These range from out of the way ports in Scotland and remote islands in the north Atlantic to ports on the Black Sea, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Albania and Dalmatian coast, to Tunisia and other North African ports, Sicily, Corsica, and "undiscovered islands of Spain, Italy and Greece.
South America, from the Caribbean nations of Belize and Honduras to the Falkland Islands, is experiencing equally impressive growth, with CLIA members deploying ships
there for the first time or greatly expanding their presence, particularly during the winter season, to take advantage of consumer interest (from North and South America as well as Europe) in exploring the great cosmopolitan cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and others as well as the continent's extraordinary natural beauty, from the Chilean fjords to the mighty Amazon River. Many of the itineraries also feature the wonders of Antarctica.
An emerging market is cruising in the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand with several CLIA member lines deploying larger ships in this area, adding more ships and establishing a year-round cruise presence. The popularity and variety of the destinations, coupled with the exotic appeal of places like Tahiti, the fascinating aboriginal culture of Australia and the spectacular scenery of New Zealand are driving new interest among cruise passengers worldwide.
Other markets that are experiencing strong growth, though on a much smaller scale, include the Middle East's Gulf region where such destinations as Dubai and Oman are investing in port development and attracting the interest of not only travelers but cruise lines, as well.
Globalization: As CLIA members seek to keep customers loyal and attract new ones, the industry is characterized by the globalization of itineraries and destinations. In addition the growth markets already mentioned, many cruise lines are expanding their areas of operation, in some cases encompassing over 300 ports of call on all seven continents. In part this has been driven by surprisingly strong consumer demand for world cruises, with several CLIA members either joining the "long cruise" market for the first time or expanding their world cruise operations with more ships or more ambitious itineraries.
New itineraries featuring ports of call in Africa, including Tunisia, The Gambia, the Seychelle Islands, Kenya and Madagascar; in Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, India; and closer to home, Egg Island in The Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos, Peter Island in the Caribbean. Port development projects are also proposed in Turks and Caicos, Roatan and other destinations in the Caribbean region. Along with the more exotic worldwide itineraries has been a growth in extended excursions to cultural treasures in Europe, Asia and elsewhere, including the temples of Angkor Wat, the Taj Mahal, even the mountain Kingdom of Bhutan.
Shipboard Innovations:
Continuing the trend toward offering passengers greater choice and flexibility, CLIA member lines are introducing an impressive range of shipboard facilities and activities. Recreational facilities continue to become more varied and ambitious, as reflected in such
offerings as full-scale aqua parks, adults-only and teens-only recreational areas, even bowling alleys. The shipboard dining experience continues to focus on allowing guests more choices and options – when, where, what and with whom to eat, including, in some cases, dining rooms or restaurants for children.
Among the hottest trends to watch for: a new generation of shipboard spas that compete in size and amenities, including dedicated spa suites, with top-brand, land-based spas; the latest personal technology, including cell phones, iPods, and wireless Internet access; increasingly impressive onboard enrichment programs, including cooking schools, theater camps for kids; and, less visible but increasingly influential, the creation of "consumer advisory panels," including teens and women, to provide input on everything from entertainment and recreation to interior design.

CLIA Adds Major New Benefit For Members
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has just added another major feature to its already impressive list of member benefits. CLIA announced its partnership with Marsh , offering CLIA agencies online quotes for insurance programs. The information and the link to Marsh ConsumerConnexions is located in the members-only section of CLIA's website. "CLIA's goal is to provide our members with the broadest possible range of products and services designed to support their businesses in every way," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "These new insurance products from Marsh are a major step toward completely fulfilling that goal."
Marsh ConsumerConnexions offers exclusive access to several insurance programs. These include group health, individual health, long term care, short term medical, term life, auto and homeowners, dental, executive medical and others. By using Marsh Smart Business Interactive, CLIA members can receive an online, no obligation quote.
Marsh ConsumerConnexions designs, implements, and manages insurance, risk management and financial service programs for private clients and sponsoring entities, delivering vision, value, convenience, choice and innovation to consumers worldwide. Marsh, a unit of Marsh & McLennan Companies (MMC), is the world's leading insurance broker and risk advisor providing advice and transactional capabilities to clients in over 100 countries.
About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

Over-the-Top Accommodations Redefine Cruise Ship Luxury
An elegant duplex apartment the size of a house; exclusive courtyards and verandahs with private pools, hot tubs and fitness areas; private space large enough to entertain 100 friends; 24-hour butlers and concierge service; a marble-appointed bath for every bedroom: today's cruise ships are redefining luxury with over-the-top suite accommodations unimagined only a few years ago.
On luxury yachts, globe-trotting ocean liners and every type of cruise ship in-between, guests in search of the ultimate in elegance, exclusivity or spacious privacy will be astonished by what they find. Among the member lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) there are ships offering suites of more than 2,000 square feet. In one case, five, two-story suites can be combined to create an incomparable living space of more than 9,000 square feet. Even on intimate yachts and ships carrying barely 100 passengers, a lucky few have the option to live in grand style in the "Owner's Suite."
While the size, design and ambience of these remarkable accommodations may vary, what is common to all is a level of personalized service unparalleled on land or sea. In addition to the latest in technology and the world's finest toiletries and other amenities, most suite accommodations feature the undivided attention of butlers or suite stewards, the skillful services of a concierge and a variety of options that enable the occupants to enjoy, in complete privacy, anything from cocktails with friends to full-course meals served on a verandah under the stars.
Most remarkable is the fact that many CLIA member lines report that these decidedly upscale accommodations are often the first to sell out.
Here is a sampling of over-the-top suite accommodations offered by members of CLIA:

Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises' deluxe, 694-passenger ships each offer guests the choice of six Penthouse Suites, four Royal Suites, and 32 brand-new, custom-built Sky Suites. While guests in every stateroom and suite on Azamara's ships enjoy stateroom butler service, fresh-cut flowers, fresh fruit, afternoon canapés, plush cotton bathrobes, European bedding and towels, complimentary slippers, and one night of complimentary dining in a specialty restaurant, guests in suites receive even more pampering. Guests staying in suites will receive a bottle of champagne in their stateroom at embarkation, two nights of complimentary dining in the specialty restaurants, in-room DVD players and the ability to enjoy movies free of charge from the ship's library; silk hangers and drawer liners upon request; and the ability to book certain spa services to take place in the privacy of their suite.

Carnival Cruise Lines
When the 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor arrives in 2008, it will feature the line's first spa accommodations, which are adjacent to a luxurious 21,000-square-foot spa that spans the forward portion of two full decks and overlooks the bow of the ship. Accessed through a private elevator and stairway, Carnival Splendor's 68 spa suites include priority spa appointments with a pre-cruise concierge consultation, complimentary fitness classes, an abundance of special spa amenities, and unlimited use of the facility's relaxing thalassotherapy pool and an elaborate thermal suite.

Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises' suites feature 24-hour butler service, which includes full breakfasts, lunches and dinners served in the suite, if guests desire; hors d'oeuvres delivered to the suite every afternoon; complimentary espresso and cappuccino; in-suite afternoon tea service; assistance with packing and unpacking; assistance with booking AquaSpa® appointments, and more. Amenities for guests in Celebrity's suites include welcome champagne, personalized stationery, a Celebrity Cruises tote bag; priority check-in and departure; priority tender services in applicable ports of call; express luggage delivery at embarkation; dining room seating preference; invitations to exclusive cocktail parties and onboard events; a private portrait sitting; and complimentary use of the Thalassotherapy pool in Celebrity's AquaSpa® facilities, on those ships that have one.

Costa Cruises
The Costa Serena and the Costa Concordia each offer exclusive spa suites with direct access to the ships' revolutionary Samsara Spa. Exclusive Samsara Spa Suite privileges include flat screen televisions, special Elemis bath accessories and access to the wellness cuisine in the private Ristorante Samsara. Suite accommodations also feature the spa's unique "Welcome Ritual," including unlimited use of the spa facilities, the Thalassotherapy pool, two complimentary fitness classes, two spa treatments, two sun-lamp sessions, a personalized wellness consultation and an invitation to the Samsara Spa tea ceremony.

Crystal Cruises
The four Crystal Penthouse suites on Crystal Serenity feature over 1,300 square feet of space, which encompasses a verandah, living room, dining area, luxurious bedroom, master bath with Jacuzzi, separate shower and ocean view, library, pantry, guest bathroom and private workout area with a personal treadmill. Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks, state-of-the-art sound system, flat screen TV, and the undivided attention of a personal butler are also part of the package. On Crystal Symphony, the two Crystal Penthouse suites are just slightly smaller but features most of the same luxury amenities.

Cunard Line
On Cunard's newest liner, Queen Victoria, four Grand Suites named after illustrious past Cunard liners: Aquitania, Berengaria, Mauretania and Laconia will range in sizes from 1,918 to 2,131 square feet. Two more past Cunarders are honored with the naming of two Master Suites, Carpathia and Caronia, at approximately 1100 square feet. The ultimate in luxury, Queens Grill suites aboard Queen Victoria feature butler service with butlers trained to the exacting standards of the International Guild of Professional Butlers.
Queen Mary 2's five duplex Queens Grill suites range in sizes from 1,566 to 2,249 square feet. For those passengers seeking even more space, all five may be combined to create a 9,000 square foot home at sea. Four forward suites overlooking the ship's bow measure between 796 and 1,194 square feet and can be connected to create a stunning 3,980-square-foot suite.

Disney Cruise Line
Disney Magic and Disney Wonder cater to royalty with two Royal Suites on each ship featuring two bedrooms, one with a queen bed, the other with twin beds and pull down bunks, as well as 2 ½ baths, a whirlpool tub, living room, dining room, media library with a pull-down double bed and verandahs. Amenities include Disney-designed furnishings and extras such as a non-stocked wet bar, DVD player, walk in closets and the services of a concierge that begins even before boarding. All suites offer spectacular ocean views as well.

Holland America Line
Holland America provides its suite guests with exclusive amenities as well as spacious accommodations. All the line's ships feature at least one penthouse suite and a variety of other suite sizes, depending on the ship. In addition, passengers with suite accommodations have exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge staffed by a 24-hour concierge. Offering a private place to relax and socialize, the lounge provides worktables, a TV, a library, sofas and chairs and refreshments, including continental breakfast, a mini-bar and coffees, sandwiches and pastries through much of the day. Added luxuries for suite guests include a full stateroom breakfast at the start of the cruise, corsages and boutonnieres for the first formal night and, in many cases, a private verandah.

MSC Cruises
When MSC Fantasia debuts in 2008, guests will have a choice of 68 suites in an exclusive VIP area accessed by two private elevators. The five different suite designs all feature full butler service, laundry, housekeeping, room service from a dedicated VIP galley and concierge services. In addition to the suite accommodations, the VIP area will feature an observation lounge and bar, a concierge lounge, two VIP massage rooms in the spa, which is directly accessed from the VIP suites, and a VIP Sun Deck that includes a swimming pool, two Jacuzzis, showers and a bar for suite guests only.

Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL offers some of the most high-end accommodations afloat with its exclusive "ship within a ship" concept, which combines luxury accommodations with all the facilities of a large vessel in a private setting. Guests can cruise in style in Garden Villas, each spanning up to 5,750 square feet and offering a spacious living room, dining room, and three separate bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. Garden Villa guests also enjoy their own private sun beds, hot tub and steam room in a private garden, plus butler and concierge service. One of NCL's newest and most luxurious stateroom categories is the Courtyard Villa suite complex. The ten suites share a private courtyard, complete with lap pool, hot tub, male and female steam rooms, and a small fitness area.

Princess Cruises
In a style befitting its name, the Grand Princess features a Grand Suite, complete with fireplace, hot tub, convertible double sofa bed, large walk-in closets, spacious living areas and whirlpool tubs in the bathroom. All Princess ships offer suite and mini-suite accommodations of varying descriptions but all surround their occupants with luxury. Among the amenities are luxury toiletries, the finest in linens, in-suite DVD players, mini-bars and complimentary services such as access to the spa's thermal suite and the Internet Café, a private portrait sitting and expedited embarkation and disembarkation. Suite stewards are always on hand to assist.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
No need to ponder the pros and cons of suite accommodations on Seven Seas Mariner or Seven Seas Voyager because both ships offer nothing but suites, some as large as 2,002-square feet and all with private balconies. In-suite amenities include high tech, interactive TV systems and DVD players, marble-appointed bathrooms with separate showers and full tubs, separate sitting areas, walk-in closets and, in Penthouse B suites and above, the pleasures of attentive butler service. A third ship, Seven Seas Navigator, also features ocean-view suites, 90 percent with balconies. Ten of the suites are interconnecting, creating a living space of over 1,500-square feet.

Royal Caribbean International
With a total of more than 2,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space, the Presidential Family Suite can be found on the company's "Freedom Class" ships accommodating up to 14 guests. Among the features: two master bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and 30-inch flat screen TV's, two additional bedrooms, with 23-inch TV's, a common area with two additional bathrooms with showers, a spacious living room with a sectional sofa that sleeps two and an extensive entertainment center, including a 42-inch plasma TV. The balcony is equipped with a whirlpool, wet bar, lounge chairs and dining alfresco for 14. Throughout the RCCL fleet, Royal Family Suites feature two bedrooms, two baths and spacious living areas.

Seabourn Cruise Line
When Seabourn Odyssey debuts in June of 2009, she will offer some of the most exceptional accommodations at sea. The Winter Garden Grand Suite provides a living room with a sofa bed for one and armchairs, a dining table for six, a butler pantry with wet bar, a private veranda and a solarium with bathtub, a separate seating area with couch, chairs, desk/dining table, another private veranda, two bedrooms with queen-size beds or two twin beds, two walk-in closets with personal safe, one alcove closet, three flat-screen televisions with DVD, one fully stocked bar, two bathrooms with separate tub (one whirlpool) and shower, and guest bath. The combined suites measure 1182 square feet. Two private verandas add another 215 square feet of private space.

SeaDream Yacht Club
SeaDream I and SeaDream II are luxury mega yachts, each with only 55 guest accommodations. The prize is the 450 square foot, elegantly appointed Owner's Suite featuring a private master bedroom and marble-lined bathroom, and a living and dining room area with a guest bath providing extra comfort for private entertaining. Amenities include Bulgari® toiletries, SeaDream's own plush 100% Turkish cotton bathrobes with slippers, separate, multi-jet shower massage units, lighted magnifying mirrors and hair dryers. Each suite's living room area features an entertainment center with a flat screen television, CD and DVD systems, Internet-ready outlets and personalized stationery. There is also a bar and refrigerator unit stocked with complimentary beer, soft drinks and bottled spring water.

Silversea Cruises
Two-bedroom Owner's Suites on Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper - each ship has two - offer over 1,200 square feet of luxury. Light-filled, with views of the sea from two private teak verandahs, the suites accommodate six guests and feature a living room with full-sized sofa, club chairs and coffee table, a dining area, a private bar stocked with complimentary beverages, wines and spirits, two bedrooms each with a TV, walk in closets, two marble baths with separate showers, a powder room and a full-sized Jacuzzi. Complimentary butler service and the finest of toiletries and linens, plus laundry service, 24-hour room service and Pommery Champagne upon arrival are among the other amenities.

Windstar Cruises
Perched on the Bridge Deck of Windstar Cruises' Windsurf are two new suites that provide all the luxury expected from a private European villa. Encompassing almost 500 square feet, they feature a living room and dining area, entertainment center with flat panel TV and DVD player, a separate bedroom also with flat screen TV and DVD player, a full bath with a whirlpool tub, separate shower and L'Occitane bath amenities. Chilled Champagne is offered upon arrival and evening appetizers and high tea service is available upon request. iPod Nanos are also available for checkout during the voyage.

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To locate a CLIA member travel agency near you, use the Travel Agent Locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies.

Fitness, Wellness, Spa and Healthy Dining Programs Appeal to Cruisers

Theme Cruises and Special Interest Programs Continue to Lure Passengers

Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines

South America Cruises Offer Vibrant Cultures And Natural Splendors
From the Amazon to Antarctica, Peru to Patagonia, Buenos Aires to Brazil, there is no more enjoyable, convenient and comfortable way to explore the impressively diverse and often remote treasures of South America and the world's most southern waters than by cruise ship.
Few cruise destinations offer such incredible variety as South America. There are the sophisticated, cosmopolitan cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Valparaiso, among others, and the renowned beaches of Brazil; the extraordinary natural wonders of Patagonia, the Chilean fjords, Cape Horn and the Strait of Magellan, barely disturbed since Charles Darwin's famous exploration in the 19th century. The continent of Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, the Amazon River, vibrant celebrations of Carnival, extraordinary cultural landmarks, stunning landscapes and unique ecological diversity, flora and fauna: these are all to be found on South America cruises.
Many CLIA member cruise lines position one or more ships in South America at the
best time for cruising in late fall through winter. They offer itineraries as short as two days from ports in Brazil, to Christmas, New Year's or Carnaval holiday voyages, to circumnavigations of the continent in appealing segments of two or more weeks. From yacht-sized ships to the newest ocean liners carrying thousands of passengers, the
vessels come in all sizes, offering shipboard lifestyles and character as varied as the expectations of vacationers seeking to cruise. Many South America voyages also feature shipboard and shore side educational programs or, in some cases, special themed itineraries showcasing the cultural and natural wonders of the destination.
Here's a sampling of South America cruises offered by CLIA member lines in 2008 and 2009:

Azamara Cruises
In 2008, Azamara Journey will offer several South American cruises, including a 12-night roundtrip from Buenos Aires departing January 28 to celebrate Carnival in Brazil; a 12-night voyage between Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo departing February 27 featuring stops in Punta del Este and Montevideo in Uruguay and four stops in Brazil, including Rio; a 12-night roundtrip from Sao Paulo departing March 10 to Buenos Aires and
back; and an 18-night sailing from Sao Paulo to Miami departing March 22 with stops in Brazil and the Caribbean. On December 18, 2008, Azamara Quest will sail from Sao Paulo to Buenos Aires, featuring the Falkland Islands, Cape Horn and the southern tip of South America.

Carnival Cruise Lines
For the first time, Carnival Cruise Lines will operate three voyages in South America in 2009 with extended visits to destinations in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Chile and Peru aboard the its newest Fun Ship, the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor. The first cruise is a 17-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires, departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 31, 2009. A second 14-day, six-port Cape Horn/Strait of Magellan cruise from Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso).departs February 17. The final 18-day Andes, Peru and Mexican Riviera cruise departs from Santiago (Valpariso) March 3 and concludes in San Francisco on March 21.

Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Infinity offers several South American itineraries in 2008, including a 14-night voyage from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso, Chile departing January 6. On January 20, the ship embarks on a 15-night cruise to Rio de Janeiro from Valparaiso to celebrate Carnival, and, on February 15, sets off on the first of four voyages between Buenos Aires and Valparaiso (other embarkation dates are March 1 and 15 and December 21). On March 30, Infinity leaves Valparaiso on a 14-night journey to Fort Lauderdale, with a visit to the Panama Canal (the reverse itinerary will be offered December 7).

Costa Cruises
Three ships will spend winter in South America this year, offering a variety of cruises from Santos, Brazil in between transatlantic voyages in the fall and spring. Costa Victoria will offer three- to nine-night voyages from Santos beginning December 13, plus a 22-night Christmas/New Year voyage to the tip of South America and the Falkland Islands. Costa Magica will offer three- to seven-night voyages to a number of Brazilian destinations, including Rio de Janeiro and Salvador da Bahia, with the first departure from Santos scheduled for December 14. And Costa Classica also sails from Santos beginning December 20, offering three- to 11-night itineraries, with some of the longer trips featuring Uruguay and Argentina in addition to popular ports in Brazil.

Crystal Cruises
Crystal Symphony will circumnavigate South America at the end of 2008. Departing from Los Angeles on December 7, the 49-day voyage takes in the Pacific coast of Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru and Chile before journeying around Cape Horn. After visiting Antarctica for New Year's and the Falkland Islands, the ship then visits Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Barbados, Turks & Caicos before finishing the voyage in Miami on January 25. The cruise is available in segments of 15 days, between Los Angeles and Valparaiso; 18 days, from Chile to Buenos Aires, and 16 days from Argentina to Miami.

Cunard Line
Three "Queens" will sail throughout the world in 2008; one of them will visit South America. Queen Elizabeth 2's first leg of her 26th and last World Cruise before she retires from a distinguished career features two South America segments. Departing from New York on January 13, a 24-night sailing will include stops in Fort Lauderdale, Barbados, Salvador da Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, the Falkland Islands, Cape Horn, and Punta Arenas, Chile before arriving in Santiago, or Valparaiso. Then, departing from Santiago on February 6, QE2 offers the rare opportunity to visit a more distant part of South America, Chile's mysterious Easter Island, as the ship sails across the Pacific Ocean.
Holland America Line
A bounty of choices is offered on five ships and more than 17 cruises to South America. New for 2008 is an extra January sailing on an expanded 20-day South America Explorer & Antarctica cruise aboard ms Rotterdam that features Wilhelm Archipelago, South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Sound. Also new are a 32- to 36-day Panama Canal & Amazon Explorer sailing on ms Veendam in September; and in November; a 13- to 26-day Inca Discovery on ms Statendam; a 26-day Amazon Explore" on ms Prinsendam; and a 22-day Americas Discovery on ms Amsterdam with tours to Chile's Machu Picchu and Lauca National Park. Cruises include guest lecturers and regional experts.

Hurtigruten (Norwegian Coastal Voyage)
Hurtigruten sailings this winter will be focused on South America and Antarctica. With departures November 21 through February 17, there are 13-day Argentina & Antarctica itineraries featuring five days in Antarctica; eight sailings between October 31 and February 6 of a 19-day Antarctica and Chilean Fjords cruise with 15 days at the southern tip of South America and Antarctica; and a 21-day Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands Islands voyage, with two departures: October 15 and February 20. All itineraries feature naturalist guides, noted guest lecturers, city tours and, where appropriate, "PolarCirkel" boat landings. There are also a variety of optional shore excursions featuring such attractions as the Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Chilean pampas and tours of Torres del Paine National Park by foot or plane.

MSC Cruises
Three ships will winter in South America, offering a range of itineraries and ports of embarkation. MSC Opera, sailing roundtrip from Santos, will make three- to seven-night cruises between November 23 and March 19. Highlights will include Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and visits to Buenos Aires. Between December 9 and February 10, MSC Sinfonia will offer roundtrip cruises from Buenos Aires ranging from three to nine nights, including a Christmas itinerary featuring Rio de Janeiro. MSC Armonia will be based in Rio, offering roundtrip itineraries of four to nine nights between December 19 and March 11. During MSC's South America season, there will also be a number of theme cruises focusing on wellness, fitness and Brazilian dance.

Norwegian Cruise Line
Beginning November 7 and extending through March 30, 2008, Norwegian Dream will be positioned in South America offering 14- and 18-day cruises featuring the Chilean Fjords, Tierra del Fuego and the Strait of Magellan. She will offer 14-day itineraries roundtrip from Santiago and between Santiago and Buenos Aires. On April 13, the ship will embark on an 18-day repositioning voyage from Santiago to Boston. In 2008, Norwegian Sun will offer 14-day Chilean Fjords and Strait of Magellan voyages between Santiago and Buenos Aires departing November 23, December 7 and 21.

Oceania Cruises
During the winter season of 2008-2009, Oceania will offer a variety of South America cruises ranging in length from 12 to 19 days. A 12-day itinerary between Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires features Buzios, Ilhas Grandes, Sao Paulo, Porto Belo, Itajai, Punta del Este, and Montevideo, with departures December 8, 2008; January 24 and February 5, 2009. A 16-day Buenos Aires-Valparaiso trip departing December 20, 2008 includes stops in Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley, Ushuaia, Cape Horn, Punta Arenas, the Chilean fjords, Laguna San Rafael, Puerto Chacabuco, and Puerto Montt. There will also be a 19-day Rio-Valparaiso itinerary, with departures January 5, February 17 and March 8, 2009.

Princess Cruises

In 2008, Princess will position three ships in South America during the winter months, offering a record 21 departures on six different itineraries. Star Princess will return with the popular Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan, Antarctic and Andes cruises plus a new 14-day Cape Horn itinerary. The intimate Pacific Princess explores the Amazon rainforest offering more voyages there than ever before. Her sister ship Royal Princess will sail on two new 12-day voyages between Fort Lauderdale and Guayaquil, Ecuador that will provide optional cruisetours to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. For those who can't wait until late 2008, the line's South America season this year gets under way December 20, 2007 with a 21-day Brazilian Adventure from Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires on.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Seven Seas Mariner will offer several South American cruises in early 2008. Departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 4, the ship will make a 12-night journey to Callao, Peru through the Panama Canal. The voyage will be highlighted by a "Spotlight Series" on chocolate. From Callao, the ship departs for Buenos Aires on January 16, sailing around Cape Horn, through the Falkland Islands. The 19-night cruise will feature a Le Cordon Bleu Circle of Interest program featuring intensive workshops, demonstrations and culinary excursions. Departing from Buenos Aires on February 2, Seven Seas Mariner sails up the Amazon River to Manaus on a 17-day voyage, then sails for Fort Lauderdale on a 12-night trip departing February 21.

Royal Caribbean International
Between December 18, 2007, and March 22, 2008, Splendour of the Seas will make a series of South America cruises ranging from a two-night roundtrip from Santos (Sao Paulo) and several eight-night roundtrips from Santos to Montevideo, Rio de Janeiro and other ports, to 15-night, one-way voyages between Sao Paulo and Valparaiso. Radiance of the Seas will offer longer voyages in South America: 13- to 16-night cruises between major ports such as Santos, Buenos Aires and Valparaiso. Scheduled for November 23 through March 13, the series will include a 13-night roundtrip from Buenos Aires to celebrate Carnival in Rio de Janeiro.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Pride offers four South American itineraries in early 2008. Treasures of the Inca Coast is an 18-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Valparaiso, Chile departing January 5. Patagonian Passage, departing January 23, takes passengers on an 18-day voyage from Chile to Buenos Aires around the tip of South America. On February 10, Seabourn Pride sails from Buenos Aires to Manaus on a 20-day itinerary visiting Uruguay, Rio de Janeiro and other ports in Brazil; and, the Amazon & Caribbean Isles 16-day journey from Manaus to Fort Lauderdale departs on March 1 and features Devil's Island, French Guiana, Barbados, Guadeloupe, Virgin Gorda and San Juan.

Silversea Cruises
In late 2007, the 296-guest Silver Wind will offer five voyages of eight to 16 days exploring South America from French Guiana in the north, along the east coasts of Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina, through the Strait of Magellan to Chile and its famous fjords. For example, a 14-day cruise departing from Manaus on the Amazon on November 13 takes in the length of the Amazon and calls in Santarem, Belem, Natal, Recife and Salvador before arriving in Rio de Janeiro. International relations expert Dr. Richard Atkins will host discussions on the region's history and culture. Silver Wind will return to South America in winter, 2008 for another series of four voyages.

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Theme Cruises and Special Interest Programs Continue to Lure Passengers
The cruise industry - as reflected in the theme cruises and special interest lectures, workshops, discussions and shore excursions offered by the member lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) - is more than ready and able to give cruisers what they're looking for and, more likely, dramatically exceed their expectations. South African wine, NASCAR racing legends, vegan cooking or French haute cuisine, killer whale safaris in the Arctic, golf, Tai Chi, Broadway trivia, mastering Adobe Photoshop or video editing: these are just a few of the subjects featured in special interest programs or theme cruises on CLIA cruise lines.
These, and hundreds of other topics and themes, can be found on short and long cruises in virtually every part of the world. In addition to showcasing the history, culture and natural wonders of countries and regions visited, the special interest programs are designed to help passengers pursue the latest trends in hobbies, explore new fields of learning, catch up on world developments, even engage some of the world's leading experts and celebrities in conversation.
Here are some special topics featured in shipboard programs and theme cruises offered by CLIA member lines:

Carnival Cruise Lines
Theme cruises include: the first annual Soap Opera Cruise, a five-day cruise from Miami aboard the Carnival Imagination November 15-19, featuring ten popular daytime drama personalities; the Rusty Wallace Cruise, a seven-day cruise from Miami, December 1-8, with the car-racing legend; the Mind & Body Cruise, a seven-day cruise from Galveston aboard the Carnival Conquest December 2-9, co-sponsored by Shape and Men's Fitness magazines; and the John Heald's Bloggers Cruise, a seven-day cruise from Miami aboard the Carnival Freedom January 19-26, 2008, featuring Carnival's popular senior cruise director.

Costa Cruises
Among Costa's many theme cruises: Holistic Holiday at Sea aboard the Costa Fortuna, departing March 30, 2008 from Fort Lauderdale, with renowned teachers and authors and more than 50 workshops on vegan and macrobiotic cooking, massage, meditation and health; and the Chocoholic Celebrity Chef Cruises 2008 aboard Costa Mediterranea, departing from Fort Lauderdale on February 5, with all-star chefs from the Food Network, plus feasts of chocolate dishes, recipes, lectures, demonstrations, private parties and more.

Crystal Cruises
Of Crystal's 61 voyages in 2008, 28 will feature focused programming ranging from wellness through Tai Chi, yoga and Pilates. Themes include the Arts & Antiquities cruise; the perennially popular Crystal Wine & Food Festival, offered on six voyages; three special Golf cruises in partnership with TaylorMade; Jazz & Big Band; Film & Theatre; and Smithsonian Journeys, featuring lecturers from the Smithsonian Institute offering particular insights on the Panama Canal. Crystal will also connect with the Tall Ships sailing event in Northern Europe in July. In addition to theme cruises, Crystal's Creative Learning Institute offers complimentary destination lectures, special interest lectures on such topics as music keyboard classes, Computer University@Sea; Berlitz Foreign Language instruction and more.

Cunard Line
Cunard's newly re-visioned enrichment programme, Cunard Insights™, features renowned authors, lecturers and personalities from the worlds of culture, entertainment, sports and politics. Among the featured guests during Queen Mary 2's remaining 2007 Transatlantic season are Jeffrey Hoffman, former NASA astronaut and currently co-director of the Massachusetts Space Grant Consortium at MIT, September 22 sailing; Frank DeFord, Emmy Award-winning sports commentator, October 7 sailing; Richard Underwood, notable space photographer and technical director at NASA, October 19 and 25 sailings; and Lynn Truss, best-selling author of Eats, Shoots and Leaves, on the October 25 westbound transatlantic crossing.

Holland America Line
One of Holland America's most popular special interest programs is the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine. Featuring celebrity chefs from around the world, the program is part of the line's $225 million Signature of Excellence initiative and features special show kitchens, classes and cooking demonstrations on each ship. This year, the line introduced special cooking activities for kids as part of the Club HAL program. Another popular feature is the Explorations Speaker Series on longer voyages, with notable speakers and experts from a variety of fields. Stock market analyst David Leibowitz will be featured on the October 20 sailing of the ms Prinsendam. Other special interest activities include the line's iPod-based shipboard art tours, and a "completely wild Alaskan seafood dinner" served during the Alaska cruise season.

Hurtigruten (Norwegian Coastal Voyage)
Hurtigruten's 12-day theme cruises capture the special quality of
sailing in the dark sea, along fjords and snow-clad mountains with lights glowing from villages, towns and lighthouses and, when conditions are right, the Northern Lights. Among the themes are: Watercolors and Art, a February 19 departure, with onboard artists and teachers; Winter Digital Photography in the Arctic, departing February 4; Harmony at Sea, departing February 12, with an experienced choirmaster organizing passengers into singing groups; and a Bridge cruise departing January 28. Other special interest activities offered include whale safaris to view the killer whales in the Lofoten Islands, featured on October 30 and December 26 sailings, and winter snowmobile and dogsled safaris in Spitsbergen, with eight- to 13-day cruise departures between February and May.

MSC Cruises
MSC offers a full slate of theme cruises throughout the year, enabling guests to expand their knowledge of a wide range of subjects. Themes include food and wine, classical music, dance, art, astronomy and astrology, hobbies such as art, photography and bridge, golf and well-being and health. Among the theme cruises coming up: Baseball Greats, featuring some of the game's legends, a seven-night cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale December 14; and a Golf Cruise featuring some of Europe's best courses departing October 22. Guests on all MSC ships also have the opportunity to learn to speak Italian as well as learn the latest dance steps.

Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL will host Cooking Light's annual Ship Shape Cruise on November 11 aboard Norwegian Dawn. This health-and-wellness voyage will depart Miami, sailing an Eastern Caribbean itinerary. Guests will enjoy morning walks, customized shore excursions, cooking demonstrations and question and answer sessions with Cooking Light chefs, a private beach party in St. Thomas, Iron Chef-style cooking competitions and more. NCL America, which sails inter-island Hawaiian itineraries, features conservation and research discussions by experts from the Pacific Whale Foundation on select ships.

Oceania Cruises
In addition to destination experts and special interest lecturers on such topics as political science, history and finance onboard every sailing, Oceania is noted for its culinary cruises with well-known chefs. Among those coming up is an Antarctica and Chilean Fjords cruise with Susie Heller, departing December 20. Heller has been executive producer for Jacques Pepin and culinary producer for Julia Child. Master Chef Andre Soltner, dean of Classic Studies at the French Culinary Institute and former chef-owner of now closed Lutece restaurant in New York, will be featured on a January 10 sailing between Chile and Buenos Aires. Alain Sailhac will join a Buenos Aires to Childe cruise departing January 26. Other special interest themes include wine tasting seminars and classes in computer software, iPod, Adobe Photoshop and video editing.

Orient Lines
As part of its Celebrity Speakers program, Orient hosts numerous lecturers, including noted historians, journalists, political commentators, diplomats, naturalists, explorers and scientists. Among the names Orient guests might encounter are: internationally known photographer Joe Dimaggio, Buzz Aldrin, the astronaut who landed on the moon, Ian Maxtone-Graham, Peter Hillary, Angelo Dundee and others. Colonel Stephen Bauer, White House aide to five Presidents, will be onboard the October 10-24 sailing between Barcelona and Istanbul; Paul Kidd, butler to the British Royal Family will sail between Barcelona and Rio de Janeiro departing November 14; and Dr. Mark Rich, noted geologist will lecture on Scandinavia and the Baltics on the December 13 sailing from Stockholm.

Princess Cruises
Princess offers a comprehensive shipboard enrichment program called ScholarShip@Sea. Featuring guest lecturers and experts on such topics as cooking, visual arts, computer skills, photography and pottery, participating passengers can choose from approximately 20 courses per voyage. The four core subjects are Culinary Arts, Visual/Creative Arts, Photography and Computer Technology and some of the topics include scrapbooking, Italian cooking, ceramics, digital travel photography, Web page design and water color painting. In addition to the main subject areas, each sailing may include courses or lectures on such topics as maritime history, science, politics, nutrition, geography, health and fitness, presented by authors, astronauts, naturalists, historians and personal development experts.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Every Regent Seven Seas cruise is a voyage of discovery. Themes for 2008 include Le Cordon Bleu Circles of Interest cruises featuring distinguished chefs, workshops, demonstrations and special dinners, plus Spotlight Series showcasing international food and wine. A Le Cordon Bleu program on Seven Seas Mariner departs January 16 from Callao, Peru to Buenos Aires; a "ulinary Treats from the Mediterranean and the Black Sea Spotlight Series program on Seven Seas Navigator's 11-night Civitavecchia to Istanbul voyage departs June 21. Other Circles of Interest in 2008 include photography on India and Africa cruises; Europe voyages that focus on history, archaeology, literature, antiques, jewelry and shopping; Atlantic and Pacific crossings featuring big band, jazz and musical theater themes; and itineraries emphasizing art and design. Regent will also feature acclaimed naturalist Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program on Alaska and Tahiti voyages next summer.

Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Pride's 14-day Rivers of Western Europe voyage departing from Lisbon on April 28, 2008 is a good example of the company's approach to enrichment. Visiting some of Europe's most prestigious and productive food and wine regions, the cruise will feature culinary and shopping excursions ashore and gourmet tastings and demonstrations on board. Guests will explore the cuisines of northern Spain, the vineyards and chateaux of Bordeaux, the seafood of La Rochelle, Mont-St.-Michel, the Channel Isle of Guernsey and take a journey up the Seine River to Rouen in the heart of Normandy, with optional excursions to Paris. An overnight at Oostende, Belgium provides access to the historic city of Bruges before the cruise terminates in London, once again becoming one of Europe's hottest dining scenes.

Silversea Cruises
Golf, wine, art and history are some of the themes Silversea Cruises will offer in the coming months. On the November 27 sailing of Silver Wind from Rio de Janeiro, the wines of South America will be explored with Eduardo Pulenta, Jr., of Pulenta Estate, Mendoza. Silver Cloud's sailing from Port Louis to Cape Town on December 11 will feature Duimpie Bayley, noted South African wine expert. Silver Links golf voyages will be offered in the Caribbean (October 26 departure), the Panama Canal (November 23 sailing) and during a 15-day Pacific Interlude voyage beginning December 8. Author Rex Pickett, of Sideways fame, will be on this voyage as well. And, Silver Wind's July 21, 2008 roundtrip voyage from Copenhagen will feature historian and travel writer Corey Sandler.

Uniworld Grand River Cruises
Cruising the major rivers of Europe might be considered education enough but Uniworld leaves nothing to chance, providing guests with a broad range of lectures as well. On Eastern Europe itineraries, there are discussions of modern Croatia and Serbia; in Burgundy and Provence, Van Gogh, the art of silk painting and gourmet chocolate are some of the themes. Glassblowing, apple strudel baking, cheese tastings, Black Forest cake baking, "Water and Light" in French impressionism, and waltz lessons are other topics offered. And during the "Castles Along the Rhine" cruise, the Nibelungen and Rhinegold, of Wagner fame, are featured subjects of discussion. Each itinerary also features entertainment that captures the character and expression of local cultures and destinations.

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Fitness, Wellness, Spa and Healthy Dining Programs Appeal to Cruisers
For a growing number of travelers, a vacation is no time to leave health and fitness behind. For them, paradise includes a spa, fitness facilities and nutritious, healthy cuisine. Increasingly, that paradise is to be found on a cruise ship.
Among approximately 175 cruise ships belonging to members of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the majority has been built since 2000 and almost all have health and fitness facilities, with full-sized luxury spas and shipboard sports facilities among the major features of the larger vessels. More important, virtually every CLIA member ship offers delicious "spa cuisine" or other healthy dining selections, often in a choice of restaurants and dining rooms, and innovative wellness, exercise and fitness programs. Many lines even offer theme cruises focusing on wellness and featuring some of the world's top fitness, wellness and culinary experts. The result is exciting, new opportunities for travelers to go on vacation and rejuvenate their mind, body and soul.
In 2007 and 2008, many CLIA member lines will offer fitness, holistic or wellness programs - both on board ships and on land - and themed cruises throughout the world, from the Caribbean and Europe to Asia, Scandinavia, the Pacific, Alaska and Canada. Here is a sampling:

Carnival Cruise Lines
Completely revamped Spa Carnival Fare culinary offerings incorporate the latest trends in gourmet preparation, ingredients and presentation to create the ultimate in healthy fine dining options. The new selections are featured on all dining room menus and include nearly 50 salads, appetizers, soups, entrees and desserts. In addition, Carnival and Shape and Men's Health magazines have teamed up for the fourth annual Mind and Body Cruise on Carnival Conquest, departing from Galveston December 2. The seven-day voyage will include fitness and wellness seminars, cooking demonstrations and nutritional workshops.

Costa Cruises
Guests will experience a true mind and body overhaul on Costa's Holistic Holiday at Sea aboard the Costa Fortuna. Departing from Fort Lauderdale on March 30, 2008, the seven-day cruise will feature world-renowned teachers and authors, more than 50 workshops on vegan and macrobiotic cooking, shiatsu massage, meditation, cancer prevention, heart disease and other topics. The Caribbean voyage includes stops in San Juan, St. Maarten, Tortola and Grand Turk.

Crystal Cruises
Crystal Serenity will offer a rejuvenating Caribbean journey for Mind, Body and Spirit over Thanksgiving this year. The 11-day voyage, departing from Miami on November 19, will feature renowned Tai Chi and yoga masters, fitness expert Debbie Rocker and a health specialist from the Cleveland Clinic as well as Crystal's signature "Walk on Water" program and professional golf instruction. In 2008, a number of theme cruises will also address the topic of health and fitness, in addition to two "Mind, Body and Spirit" sailings, including three expanded golf cruises, and a ten-day transatlantic crossing in November featuring "Big Band & Ballroom Dancing."

Cunard Line
Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 features the only Canyon Ranch SpaClub® at sea, offering 24 massage, body and skin care treatment rooms, a gymnasium and weight room with more than 50 pieces of cardio and weight-training equipment, a juice bar, and men's and women's locker rooms. Canyon Ranch SpaClub also offers a vast selection of spa treatments, fitness classes and the only chiropractic services at sea. Complimentary Canyon Ranch lectures take place on every voyage and cover a wide range of subjects including exercise, nutrition, osteoporosis, digestive concerns, aging, living with cancer, and motivation. All three main dining rooms offer specially designed Canyon Ranch SpaClub menu choices for those that want delicious tasting nutritious meals.

Holland America Line
Fitness and health are high priorities on all Holland America cruises, with each ship offering a comprehensive fitness program featuring such special activities as Pilates, indoor cycling, yoga and Tai Chi coming in 2008. Shipboard Greenhouse Spas and beauty salons offer a full menu of massage, skin therapy, body rituals and extensive water therapies in the Thermal Suites and Hydrotherapy Pools. The ships' Fitness Center classes include Kickboxing, Step Aerobics, Fit Ball, Core Training, Fab Abs, Circuit Training, Total Body Conditioning, Stretch & Relax, and Sit & Be Fit. Fleet wide dining offers healthy lifestyle options at every meal.

MSC Cruises
Guests on MSC Cruises are offered numerous opportunities for cruises with wellness, fitness and organic food and wine themes. Among the shipboard programs are: in-depth study of massage techniques and beauty treatments, "well-being" packages with Balinese and Thai massage, reflexology and ayurveda, group fitness programs, special healthy menus, even "well-being" cocktails. This year, the MSC Opera will offer a wellness cruise from Copenhagen beginning September 13; the MSC Lirica will feature an organic food and wine theme on a seven-day sailing from Genoa on September 29; and MSC Sinfonia will feature fitness on its eight-day sailing from Buenos Aires on December 9. These themes will be repeated in 2008.

Norwegian Cruise Line
Healthy cruising on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) encompasses nutritious dining options and fitness activities to suit every type of cruiser. NCL's Freestyle Cruising allows guests to enjoy up to ten restaurants on each ship with cooked-to-order meals and no fixed seating times, and healthy menu options ranging from appetizers to desserts are available thanks to a partnership with Cooking Light. The ships' 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools, basketball courts and putting greens are complemented by activities such as Pilates, aerobics, yoga and spinning. On NCL's newest ships, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Gem, guests can even try their hand at on-board rock climbing walls and enjoy the first-ever bowling alleys at sea.

Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers passengers the opportunity to stay active during their vacation with an extensive selection of exercise classes, fitness programs and gym supervision. Specialized fitness opportunities include personal training and consultation sessions and a series of health and nutrition seminars. Classes include Step Xpress, Total Body Conditioning, Xpress Circuit, yoga, Pilates, pulse cycling, KickBoXpress, aerobic dance and power walking. More advanced options include one-on-one training, body composition analysis and a Chakra balancing capsule. In addition, shipboard restaurants offer a diverse selection of Lotus Spa menu selections.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
In addition to its shipboard Carita Spas, which offer an extensive range of physical regimens, including health and revitalization, Regent Seven Seas will offer two wellness themed cruises in 2008 on the Seven Seas Voyager. Departing May 26 and June 2, the Mediterranean itineraries will feature a Circle of Interest program led by the renowned wellness guru Oz Garcia and his brother Albert. Focusing on their specialty, anti-aging and longevity, Oz and Albert Garcia will offer personal consultations onboard and wellness-themed excursions onshore.

Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean gives cruisers a "total mind, body and soul vacation" through its new Vitality program. Introduced on the line's two newest ships - Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas, the program provides an integrated approach to wellness incorporating all aspects of the cruise experience. Vitality pairs new fitness classes and spa treatments with food choices, such as Vitality menu selections on the line's trans-fat free menus, energy bars, protein shakes and Tazo teas. Other features include seminars on stress and relaxation, weight management, health and fitness, and land-based activities, such as New Balance self-guided jogging trails at ports-of-call and the Dragon's Breath Flight Line on Labadee, the line's private beach destination in Haiti.

Seabourn Cruise Line
Pure Pampering is a complimentary program of shamelessly sybaritic services on Seabourn yachts. The program includes a menu of five soothing and revitalizing Molton Brown therapeutic bathing experiences, with the option of having the bath drawn by the guests' personal suite stewardess. There is a Sensual Bath that is perfect for sharing; an invigorating Ginseng Bath featuring the restorative powers of Brazilian ginseng; a warming Eucalyptus Bath; the Yuan Zhi Peacemaker Bath for calming and soothing the mind; and the Oceanic Stress-Relieving Bath, with the healing properties of Dead Sea salts, seaweeds and horse chestnut extracts.

Silversea Cruises
Integrating classes in nutrition and exercise, fitness activities, spa therapies and healthy dining options, Silversea's new Wellness Program creates the opportunity for complete rejuvenation of mind, body and soul while at sea. The program is incorporated into the line's new Spa at Silversea concept, offering a more personalized and holistic spa experience that focuses on the guest's individual needs and lifestyle. In addition, the fitness centers aboard Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper have been expanded, adding 300 square feet for new cardiovascular training equipment. A comprehensive fitness regimen includes workout programs such as aerobics, Pilates, circuit training and yoga that are paired with a daily collection of light and low-carb menu selections created by Silversea's master chefs.
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The best way to learn more about South America cruises is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org. Websites for CLIA cruise lines can be found at http://cruising.org/cruiselines/links.cfm.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.

CLIA Study Details Cruise Industry's 2006 Economic Impact On US Economy
The North American cruise industry last year generated $35.7 billion in gross U.S. economic output and supported 348,000 American jobs paying $14.7 billion in wages, according to a new report prepared for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
The report shows total cruise industry spending increased by 10 percent in 2006 and finds that the overall spending had an impact in all 50 states.
Direct purchases by the cruise lines for goods and services such as food and beverage, fuel, equipment, business services, port services, vessel maintenance and repair as well as purchases by crew and passengers of goods and services related to cruising, including pre- and post-cruise stays, airfare and lodging, totaled $17.6 billion in 2006. Adding the indirect economic impacts, such as transportation services to deliver finished products to the cruise lines and utilities needed to run manufacturing equipment, the total economic impact generated by the cruise industry was $35.7 billion.
The economic impact of the cruise industry reached into every state, with 79 percent of direct purchases and 83 percent of total employment and income concentrated in 10 states: Florida, California, Texas, Alaska, New York, Hawaii, Georgia, Washington, Illinois and Massachusetts. U.S. ports also saw the benefits from a growing cruise industry. Embarkations at U.S. ports increased by over 4 percent, totaling 9 million, and accounted for 75 percent of total global embarkations.
The Contribution of the North American Cruise Industry to the U.S. Economy in 2006 study was conducted by Business Research & Economic Advisors (BREA) in Exton, Pennsylvania, and analyzes the economic benefits to the US economy from five principal sources: spending by cruise passengers and crew; shoreside staffing by cruise lines in U.S. cities; expenditures by cruise lines for goods and services; cruise line spending for U.S. port services; and expenditures in U.S. shipyards for maintenance and repair. "Given North America's importance in the global cruise market, it is gratifying to report that it is also hits the mark on such critical economic factors as spending output and employment," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO. "The US economic benefits for 2006 reflect what we believe is a healthy rate of growth that supports an expanding industry."
Among the factors behind the 2006 economic impact:
-- In 2006, 12 million people worldwide took a cruise vacation, an increase of 7 percent over 2005.
-- U.S. residents accounted for 78 percent of the industry's total passengers.
-- The top ten US cruise ports by cruise embarkations in 2006 were: Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades, Galveston, Los Angeles, New York, Tampa, Long Beach, Seattle and Honolulu.
-- Based on passenger survey data, approximately 40 percent of embarking passengers stayed one or more nights in a port city and averaged $289 per visit.
-- Global industry revenues increased 7 percent to $20.6 billion.
-- The $17.6 billion in direct spending created over 153,800 direct jobs paying $5.7 billion in wages.
- By year-end 2006, the cruise industry's fleet had increased to 151 vessels with a combined capacity of 249,691 lower berths.
-- The cruise industry operated in 2006 at an occupancy rate of 104 percent.
The full economic study and summary can be downloaded from CLIA's Web site, www.cruising.org. Information on the top states benefiting from cruise industry purchases also can be found on CLIA's website for: Florida, California, Texas, Alaska, New York, Hawaii, Washington, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Louisiana.

CLIA Names Steve Collins Director Of Environmental And Health Programs
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has named Steve Collins, a marine environmental expert and former U.S. Coast Guard officer, as the association's director of environmental and health programs, effective this week. "CLIA welcomes Steve Collins in this role to continue the industry's important work in the areas of environment, sanitation and health," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA president and CEO. "His extensive experience both in corporate environmental affairs and the Coast Guard will prove invaluable as CLIA continues to move forward in shaping policies, regulations and practices that prove to be beneficial to both the public and the industry," said Dale.
Collins has responsibility for all aspects of the cruise industry's environmental and health matters including wastewater, air and shoreside waste disposal issues, as well as sanitation and medical programs. He is also responsible for developing and coordinating industry positions with regards to environmental vessel sanitation and medical practices and representing those positions to international, federal and state regulatory agencies. Collins is also coordinating the industry's environmental input to projects involving a wide range of partners, such as Conservation International and the Ocean Conservation Tourism Alliance (OCTA) and others. He will be based in CLIA's Fort Lauderdale office.
Immediately prior to joining CLIA, Collins was with Xanterra Parks & Resorts serving as director of environmental affairs at Yellowstone National Park which, in 2006, won the EPA Environmental Achievement Award for innovative programs and exceptional stewardship. From 2000 to 2006, he was Royal Caribbean Cruises' corporate regulatory compliance manager where he helped develop corporate policy consistent with U.S. and foreign regulations in 240 ports worldwide. From 1994 to 2000, Collins was program manager and administrative director at the Berkeley Environmental Restoration Center at the University of California, Berkeley, supervising a $25 million environmental clean-up contract between the U.S. Navy and UC Berkeley.
Collins is a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) and holds a Masters in Business Administration, with a concentration in the environment, from Florida Atlantic University, and a Bachelors of Science and Business Management from Santa Clara University. He has a Certificate in Hazardous Materials Management from the University of California and studied national security decision making in the Masters Degree Program at the US Naval War College.

Safety Measures In Place For Cruises Through Hurricane Season
The hurricane season has officially arrived and the cruise industry is well prepared. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) members make the safety of its guests, crew and vessels their highest priority. Unlike other vacation settings, by virtue of being a completely mobile vacation, cruising allows passengers to continue their vacations by altering itineraries should Mother Nature intervene.
The cruise lines are prepared to keep their passengers and ships out of harm's way. In the event of severe weather, certain operational protocols are in place for cruise lines, including:
-- Modern cruise ships feature technologically-advanced weather forecasting systems that enable them to reposition a ship well in advance of significant weather-related disturbances.
-- In the event that ports of embarkation and debarkation are closed due to severe weather conditions, cruise lines can use a nearby alternative port. In these cases, cruise lines coordinate the logistics of loading food and supplies and getting passengers to and from the original port.
CLIA offers the following advice when booking a cruise:
-- Be flexible – Understand that the cruise line can change the itinerary in order to keep out of harm's way. Cruise lines communicate itinerary changes up until the sailing date to their passengers. Travelers should monitor cruise line Web sites and contact their travel agent for modifications to itineraries prior to finalizing travel.
Purchase travel insurance – Travel insurance is a good idea for every vacation for added piece of mind. Added assurance in the event that your vacation doesn't go as planned is a valued investment.
-- Use a CLIA travel agency – Travel agents are trusted resources not only for booking cruise vacations, but they can assist in altered travel due to itinerary changes. Passengers who book their air travel as part of their cruise vacation package generally receive added assistance if altered itineraries result in air travel changes.
"Passengers should rest assured that CLIA member lines have the latest technology and information to closely monitor weather conditions and take all actions necessary to make certain its passengers enjoy a safe and enjoyable cruise vacation," said Terry Dale, CLIA president and CEO.

Longer Port Stays & Shore Adventures Add New Dimension To Cruising
A day in port, and often a different port each day, defines the majority of cruise itineraries. But many of the world's most wonderful places are a bit too far from port to
explore in a matter of hours. In these destinations, extended port stays and multi-day shore adventures, even the option of leaving the ship in one port and re-embarking in another, add a memorable new dimension to many cruises offered by almost a dozen CLIA member cruise lines.
Extended port stays—sometimes 18 hours, more often two full days—showcase some of most exciting, culture rich and unique cities on earth. The extraordinary history and culture of St. Petersburg in Russia, the unique glamour and style of Venice, the fun and beauty of Sydney, the energy and charm of Copenhagen: these are among the many world capitals and great cities where cruise passengers can be assured of two days in
port on many cruises. Other examples include India's financial and Bollywood districts in Mumbai; the powerhouses of Asia, including Hong Kong and Singapore; and the intriguing, history-rich meeting of East and West in Istanbul. A number of itineraries feature cities with exceptional nightlife, from San Juan, Puerto Rico to Buenos Aires or Rio de Janeiro.
Extended stays are a particularly popular feature of many world cruises as well. A number of CLIA member lines offer leisurely two-day visits to major capitals, but also to such exotic ports as Papeete in Tahiti and Panama. Ports in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman, including Dubai, one of the fastest growing cruise ports in the world, and Aqaba and Safaga, are among the newest extended port stay options on many longer voyages.
Cruises to some of the most exotic destinations in the world feature an eclectic choice of shore or land excursions that can last four days or more. There are three-night adventures to the wilds of Patagonia, extended trips to legendary Machu Picchu, and African safaris to private game reserves. Angkor Wat, the royal city of the ancient Khmer empire in
Cambodia is a popular two-day excursion on many itineraries, as is an overnight adventure to Macau from Hong Kong. China's Silk Road, the terra cotta warriors of Xian, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall are among the features of extended tours in China.
Many of India's treasured attractions, including the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort and the Pink City of Jaipur are the featured excursions that last up to five days. And, in Egypt, such extraordinary sites as the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, the Temple of Karnak, Abu Simbel and Alexandria are offered in overland trips that last up to five days.
Cruise passengers exploring Scandinavia can extend their travels to include Lapland, a tour of Scandinavian capitals and St. Petersburg. Alaska cruises can be enhanced with multi-day land journeys by rail or motorcoach to glaciers, national parks and wilderness lodges. One of the most exotic excursions is a trip to the giant stone carvings of Easter
Island. "These and other destinations in South America, Antarctica, Hawaii, the
South Pacific and Asia represent, for many travelers, the dream of a lifetime. By ensuring that such fabled places can be enjoyed with leisure through extended port stays and multi-day shore excursions, CLIA lines are making sure that our travelers' dreams come true," said Terry L. Dale, CLIA's president and CEO.
CLIA lines that offer extended stays or multi-day land adventures include Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Coastal Voyage, Orient Lines, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.
The best way to learn more about extended port stays is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 21 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in
Travel- agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies.

CLIA Cruise Lines Offer Diverse Worldwide Itineraries

CLIA's Cruise3sixty Delivers For Travel Agent Success
Provocative programming, gold standard educational opportunities and dazzling entertainment were just a handful of ingredients that ushered Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) cruise3sixty 2007 into a third consecutive year of unprecedented success, with a record-breaking 2,000 delegates in attendance, including 1,250 travel agents, 300-plus trade show exhibiting companies and over 250 exhibitor booths. "CLIA challenges itself each year to ensure that each successive cruise3sixty offers an agenda that is completely new and ensures that our member travel agents will come away in a position not just to keep abreast of trends but to create them," said Terry L. Dale, the association's president and CEO. "This year's cruise3sixty did just that."
The extraordinary popularity of cruise3sixty 2007 has prompted CLIA to offer both East and West Coast conferences in 2008, Dale announced at the conclusion of this year's show. "It is important to keep the momentum of cruise3sixty going forward and to continue to quench agent demand, which is why we made the decision to host two such events next year," he said, adding that dates and venues will be announced soon.
The cruise3sixty conference, which was held from March 30 to April 1 at Florida's Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, combined the best elements of a travel conference with cutting-edge educational and professional development programming, plus hands-on business and technology training opportunities for travel agents. It is the signature annual event of CLIA, comprised of 16,500 North American travel agencies and 21-member cruise lines. In addition to a record number of delegates at this year's cruise3sixty, the trade show had its most successful year in terms of the number of exhibitors, especially destinations. "The trade show was fabulous," said Penney Rudicil, owner, The Travel Planner. "Both days the floor was packed with agents gathering information and talking with a variety of wonderful suppliers, hoteliers, tourist and convention bureau representatives - as well as host agencies, and consortiums."
CLIA honored five inductees into its Hall of Fame, including Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.; Kathy and Leo Falkensammer, owners of Prestige Travel; Knut Kloster, co-founder of Norwegian Caribbean Cruise Line, now known as Norwegian Cruise Line; and the late Deborah Natansohn, president of Seabourn Cruise Line.
The audience was also wowed by top-shelf entertainment provided by Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International, which presented performances found on board their ships.
A "Small Ships, Big Experience" panel moderated by cruise industry veteran and two-time past CLIA chairman Rod McLeod featured some of the top names in the small ship market, including Charles Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines and the new Pearl Seas Cruises; Bob Lepisto, senior vice president of sales and marketing of SeaDream Yacht Club; Doug Seagle, vice president of sales of Seabourn Cruise Line; and Hans Rood, president of Norwegian Coastal Voyage.
Panelists encouraged attendees to dip their toes into the small ship market, noting that these cruises reap spectacular rewards. "Once you make that first sale, you'll have those clients forever," said American Cruise Line CEO Charles Robertson. Added Seabourn VP of Sales Doug Seagle: "There's never been a market segment more important then ours, with average commissions of $1,200. We like to say our commissions have commas."
A "Town Hall" meeting at the 2006 cruise3sixty featured a panel of non-cruising travelers who voiced their candid impressions of cruise vacations, travel agents and why they have not taken a cruise vacation. CLIA subsequently arranged for two of these "non-cruisers" to take their first cruise and cruise3sixty welcomed them back to share their experience. Margarita Huerta, a director of human resources, praised both her travel agent Sylvia Berman and Carnival Cruise Lines for debunking her preconceived notions about the value of travel agents and fears of confinement, boredom and nausea associated with cruising. "I now see that having a travel agent is very important," said Huerta, who sailed aboard Carnival Valor. "Sylvia was so informative about everything - including all the destinations we visited. Her input was absolutely invaluable." Huerta added that none of her concerns were realized during her cruise. "I felt so pampered and the service was impeccable. I had so many options to choose from in terms of activities and dining."
Jim Long, an attorney who last year said he was concerned about the impersonal nature of cruising, used Ken Smith, owner of Dreams Come True in Maplewood, New Jersey as an agent. "All our questions were answered by Ken - he did a really great job," Long said. As for the cruise experience itself, Long, who sailed, along with his wife, Margaret, on a Seabourn vessel, rated the experience as "absolutely fabulous," with impeccable service and five-star dining. "The staff really took good care of us," he said.
A distinguished panel of experts addressed issues of health, safety and environment head-on with valuable, accurate information to address concerns agents' customers may have.
Moderated by Virginia Sheridan, president of M. Silver Associates, CLIA's national public relations firm, the panel included J. Michael Crye, executive vice president of CLIA; Dave Forney, former chief of the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program; Captain Karl Schultz, commander of the Miami Sector of the U.S. Coast Guard; and Jamie Sweeting, senior director, travel and leisure, Center for Environmental Leadership in Business, Conservation International. The panel demystified the perceptions surrounding norovirus. "Norovirus is widespread in the general population but the cruise industry has to report every case to the CDC," said Forney. "This kind of reporting doesn't exist anywhere else on land." It is estimated by the CDC that 23 million Americans contract norovirus every year, or one in every 12 people, when less than one in every 3,600 cruise passengers has actually been affected by norovirus. Forney also commented that the sanitation conditions on ships are impeccable and state of the art.
cruise3sixty added a new twist to the traditional industry panel with "Agents View," moderated by Dr. Marc Mancini, and featuring leading cruise executives who fielded wide-ranging topics, from the future of home-based agents to the importance of the agent-supplier relationship as it relates to the future of cruising.
Cruise executives included Royal Caribbean International's Lisa Bauer, Carnival Cruise Lines' Vicki Freed, Celebrity Cruises' Keith Lang, Norwegian Cruise Line's Scott Rogers and Princess Cruises' Jan Swartz. Agents included TAAB members Penney Rudicil, The Travel Planner, Gallatin, Texas; Brad Anderson, America's Vacation Center, Escondido, Calif.; Scott Koepf, Jurni Network and Nexion, South Lake, Texas; and Joannie Ogg, president of the National Association of Commissioned Agents.
Cruise panelists reiterated their enduring commitment to the travel agency community, and encouraged retailers to focus their selling efforts on the experience and value cruise vacations offer rather than simply focusing on price. The executives also detailed ways in which they are improving their relationships with agents through new and improved technology systems and other products designed to enhance productivity. Panelists inspired agents to work toward boosting their cruise sales and stressed that all agents - both home-based and brick-and-mortar - are viewed as equal business partners.
An opening address by NBA legend and travel entrepreneur Earvin "Magic" Johnson also served to motivate and inspire attendees. For Donna Gibson-Worrell, who just last year became an agent, Johnson's address renewed her faith in her decision to pursue a career in travel. "I found listening to him very encouraging," said Gibson-Worrell of Travel Planners in Tamarac, Florida. "He made me feel that I could definitely go out and sell more and really exceed my client's expectations. I'll definitely return to cruise3sixty next year."
Stay tuned for details on cruise3sixty 2007, the venues of which will be announced soon. Web site at to www.cruising.org.

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Cruise Lines Expand Itinerary Options Around The World

Just imagine: the Middle East, Egypt and Europe – all in one itinerary. Greenland, on a ship custom-designed to ply its ice-laden waters. The French Riviera, from the vantage point of its most intimate and exclusive yachting harbors. Australia and New Zealand, with visits to cosmopolitan cities, coral reefs, verdant jungles and majestic fjords.
But there's no need to simply imagine. The 21 members of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) bring these destinations to life with new 2007 itineraries that provide up-close-and-personal experiential vacations around the globe – coupled with onboard features and amenities that pamper travelers en route.
In Europe, new offerings include an itinerary that enables travelers to experience the excitement and glamour of the America's Cup race in Valencia, Spain, on a cruise aboard a diminutive ship carrying less than 400 guests. Conversely, a brand-new mega ship, carrying upwards of 3,000 passengers, debuts a series of itineraries from Rome that spend 12 awe-inspiring days in the Mediterranean, visiting some of the most exciting ports in Greece and Turkey.
Another departs from Rome (Civitavecchia) and sails to some of the Middle East's most intriguing destinations, including the United Arab Emirates' Dubai, Egypt's Safaga and Luxor, Alexandria and Safaga, Oman's Salalah. Still farther a field, a new two-month voyage visits Russia, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Somoa, Kirabati and Hawaii with the convenient option of departing or returning from a US port.
Closer to the US, new itineraries also bring renewed verve to the world's most popular cruising grounds, the Caribbean, with new sailings that operate roundtrip from a wide variety of North American homeports. For instance, a new Southern Caribbean itinerary includes calls at St. Thomas, Antigua, Barbados, St. Maarten and Tortola with the convenience of sailing roundtrip from New York. And warm-weather sailings are heating up on the West Coast, as well. This year, new itineraries include a first: Year-round departures from San Diego, which offer travelers the option of convenient getaways that highlight the Mexican ports of Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada. "CLIA member lines ensure that passengers' intellectual curiosity is perpetually peaked by forging new itineraries around the world, complete with wide-ranging shore excursions that bring each and every destination to life," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the chief marketing organization for the cruise industry and 16,500 North American travel agencies. "No matter what travelers yearn for in terms of destinations, CLIA members are guaranteed to feature itineraries that perfectly fit the bill – and on ships that do the same."
CLIA member lines also offer tremendous diversity in terms of cruising styles. Travelers can choose between luxury yachts that carry fewer than 100 passengers or contemporary mega ships that sail with 3,600 passengers – and everything else in between. This year's slate of new itineraries offers travelers itineraries as short as two days and as long as 64 days.
The list below highlights a sampling of the innovative itineraries on CLIA-member cruise line ships:
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Line's new four- and five-day Baja Mexico program from San Diego – the only one of its kind available from Southern California – debuts in June aboard Elation, with Thursday departures on four-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Monday and Saturday departures for five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada.
Celebrity Cruises
Sightings of koala bears, kangaroos and kiwi birds await vacationers sailing with Celebrity Cruises this year. Mercury presents six 14-night open-jaw sailings between Auckland, New Zealand and Sydney, Australia from December 2007 through March 2008. The line's first calls at French Polynesia's Papeete, Moorea and Bora Bora precede Mercury's Australia/New Zealand schedule.
Costa Cruise Lines
From the sun-soaked beaches of Mykonos to the Mauresque medinas of Morocco—Costa offers the best of the Mediterranean in year-round cruises spanning from seven to twelve nights. In 2007, the Italian cruise line will offer guests over 350 itineraries in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean aboard its fleet, including the new Costa Serena and Costa Concordia.
Crystal Cruises
As Dubai continues on its awe-inspiring climb as one of the world's hottest travel destinations, Crystal Cruises introduces a 14-day Crystal Symphony itinerary from the destination to Rome. Highlights include Oman's Salalah, Italy's Sorrento and Egypt's Alexandria – and an overnight in the Safaga for visits to Luxor and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
Cunard Line
Queen Mary 2's 2007 and 2008 deployment includes a series of 12 ten-day Connoisseur's Caribbean voyages, which travel roundtrip from New York. The Cunard Line flagship visits classic Caribbean ports of call, including Road Town, Tortola; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas on the 10-day itineraries.
Disney Cruise Line
This summer, Disney Cruise Line adds European flair to its itinerary offerings, repositioning Disney Magic to Barcelona on ten-night and 11-night Mediterranean cruise vacations. The itineraries, with eight ports of call that serve as gateways to such renowned cities as Florence, Rome, Pisa and Cannes, offer a family-friendly way to explore Europe.
Holland America Line
New in Holland America Line's 2007 itinerary portfolio is a 64-day Polynesian Explorer cruise aboard Amsterdam, visiting ports in Russia, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Samoa, Kirabti and Hawaii. Two segments—Seattle-Singapore or Singapore-San Diego— enable guests to explore far-flung destinations with just one international flight.
MSC Cruises
With three ships sailing in Northern Europe in 2007, MSC Cruises has expanded the ports the line will be visiting in the region. MSC Rhapsody's 11-night itinerary, for example, includes calls at Amsterdam, Dover, Brunsbuettel, Kiel, Ronne, Riga, Talin, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen. Guests may sail roundtrip from either Copenhagen or Amsterdam.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage
Fram, the first custom-built ship for Greenland cruising, departs from Iceland's capital city of Reykjavik in May. The Norwegian Coast Voyage cruises include Tasiilaq, just south of the Arctic Circle; Skjoldungen, well-known for its undisturbed wildlife; Uunartoq, home to geothermal springs; Qassiarsuk, settled by Vikings in 982; and the country's capital, Nuuk.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line debuts the new Norwegian Gem on three 12-day itineraries from Barcelona in October and November, calling at some of the Iberian Coast's most exciting ports. The ship then positions to its New York homeport for a year-round lineup of seven-day Bahamas and Florida itineraries, and ten- and 11-day Exotic Southern Caribbean sailings.
Oceania Cruises
This spring Oceania Cruises' Regatta embarks on a ten-day itinerary from Barcelona to Athens hosted by renowned culinary expert Jacques Pepin. In addition to visiting Italy's Rome, Amalfi and Taormina, and Greece's Katakalon, Crete and Athens, the ship makes maiden calls at Spain's Mahon; Italy's Porto Cervo and Cinque Terre; and Greece's Monemvasia.
Princess Cruises
The debut of the intimate Royal Princess offers a series of elite 12-day voyages between Rome and Venice with calls at Italy's Portofino, Sorrento and Messina; France's Corsica; Monte Carlo; Malta; and Greece's Corfu. The Princess Cruises itinerary includes new unique ports in Kotor, Montenegro; Split, Croatia; and Italy's Ravenna. Five departures are available in June, September and November.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises features four European Grand Crossing voyages in 2007, visiting ports in Morocco, France, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Spain and the Canary Islands. On board, Regent Festival programming pampers guests with great music and dancing, enhanced programs in yoga and Pilates, food and wine classes, as well as a range of lecture series.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International deploys a second 142,000-ton ship, Navigator of the Seas, in Europe this summer on an innovative 14-night itinerary visiting a collection of Mediterranean treasures. Sailing from roundtrip from Southampton, she calls at the United Kingdom's Gibraltar; Spain's Barcelona, Lisbon, Malaga and Vigo; Italy's Florence and Cagliary; and France's Villefranche.
Seabourn Cruise Line
In May, Seabourn Cruise Line's Seabourn Legend features two eight-day Mediterranean cruises that combine visits to the dazzling resorts and yachting harbors along the French Riviera as well as Florence and Portofino along Italy's Ligurian coast. The itinerary, which sails from Monte Carlo, also visits to the popular French yachting center of Calvi.
Seadream Yacht Club
SeaDream Yacht Club, which sails in Europe in the summer, introduces a series of five-, seven- and nine-night yachting itineraries in the Caribbean from November 2007 through April 2008, and includes 22 small, intimate yachting ports. All tolled, more than 30 itineraries visit the British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, the French West Indies, Netherlands Antilles and Windward and Leeward Islands.
Silversea Cruises
One of the most thrilling events on the roster for Silversea Cruises guests is the America's Cup 2007"itinerary, enabling guests to experience first-hand all the excitement and drama of the regatta when Silver Whisper drops anchors in Spain's Valencia. The eight-day itinerary, roundtrip from Barcelona, enables guests to watch the event on board.
Windstar Cruises
A new seven-day itinerary from Rome to Barcelona aboard Windstar Cruises' five-masted Wind Surf visits the Italian and Spanish ports of Amalfi, Sorrento, Capri, Mahon, Menorca, Palma de Mallorca and Tarragona. Wind Surf sails seven-day cruises in the Western Mediterranean from April through November from Lisbon, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome, Nice, Venice and Monte Carlo.
The best way to learn more about CLIA member line itineraries is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

New CLIA Survey Finds Caribbean Still No. 1 Destination

Cruise Lines Prepare For A Record Europe Season
The Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) member lines are poised for a banner 2007 Europe cruise season. The strong outlook stems from the number of ships
deployed in the region, the diversity and breadth of itineraries and ports, and the unprecedented number of passengers who recognize the incredible value European cruises offer. CLIA lines will serve as gateways to Europe's perennial favorite cities,
including London, Florence and Rome. Collectively, lines blanket the European cruising arena, with itineraries covering virtually every part of the region. This year, lines are adding ports along the increasingly popular Dalmatian Coast in Croatia, Italy's Puglia region, as well as the Greek Isles and the coast of Turkey.
Some cruise lines have extended the European sailing season to a full nine months, while others will have a presence in the region year-round. Many CLIA lines also are adding more overnight port visits, enabling guests more time to thoroughly explore ports on shore excursions that have become increasingly more diverse and adventuresome. Many of these ports are also ideally suited for exploring independently, by foot or rental car. CLIA-member travel agents are reporting that Europe cruises are in high demand, with some of their customers already reserving space for 2008," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the chief marketing organization for 21 cruise lines and 16,500 North American travel agencies. "All indicators point to a record-breaking season. Travelers who haven't made their Europe cruise booking yet this year are well advised to take action immediately."
There is a style of ship and European itinerary to meet any prospective vacationer's desires. Travelers can choose between luxury yachts that carry as few as 100 passengers or contemporary mega ships that carry as many as 3,100. Following is a rundown of the diverse portfolio of Europe cruises CLIA-member lines are offering travelers this year:
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines' new Carnival Freedom sails an inaugural schedule of 12-day voyages featuring the line's first visits to the Greek Isles and Turkey, and extended calls at a variety of Mediterranean ports March through October. Featured ports include Livorno, Naples, Messina and Venice; Barcelona; Cannes; Izmir and Istanbul, Turkey; Athens, Rhodes and Katakolon, Greece; and Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Celebrity Cruises
From Casablanca to Cornwall, from the Bosporus Strait to the best of ancient Greece, Celebrity Cruises' European itineraries aboard four ships take guests to a broad array of romantic, historic and exotic locations. From Amsterdam, the line will make its first calls on the Norwegian towns of Molde and Tromso, considered the gateway to the Arctic.
Costa Cruises
With 60 years of experience sailing the waters of Europe, Costa Cruises offers a robust and diverse cruise schedule, with 273 year-round departures, deploying 10 ships both seasonally and annually throughout the year. The line's cruising grounds include the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, the Greek Isles, Northern and Western Europe and the Baltics.
Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises' Crystal Symphony offers its guests voyages to Western Europe, the Baltic countries, Russia, the North Cape/Arctic and the British Isles. Crystal Serenity cruises Western Europe, the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and Canary Islands. The line also launches its first-ever roundtrip cruise from France's Toulon with maiden calls
at Sochi, Russia, and Eidfjord, Norway.
Cunard Line
Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 visits destinations in England, Norway, France, Spain, Germany, Portugal and Italy. Queen Elizabeth 2 ports in Italy, Norway, France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Turkey, Greece and Malta. In December, Queen Victoria is unveiled on a ten-day Maiden Christmas Markets Voyage from Southampton, followed by a 16-day Canary Islands sailing.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line adds European flair to its itinerary roster, repositioning a ship in Europe for the first time ever this summer. The sailings, operating roundtrip from Barcelona and including eight ports of call, offer families a hassle-free way to experience the beauty and culture of Europe combined with the fun of a Disney cruise.
Holland America Line
This year marks Holland America Line's longest European season in recent history with sailings from March through November to Western and Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Black Sea. Itineraries range from 10- to 56-days with 136 ports of call, featuring 82 departure dates. Thirteen maiden ports include Jupivogur, Iceland; Sochi, Russia; and Koper, Slovenia.
MSC Cruises
The entire MSC Cruises fleet of eight ships will be positioned in Europe for the majority of the year, with departures available from Genoa, Livorno, Naples, Rome, Venice, Bari and Barcelona. Three are positioned in Northern Europe, up from two in 2006. MSC Orchestra debuts this spring from Venice on a series of seven-night itineraries.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage
Norwegian Coastal Voyage features 11 ships that ply Norway's coast and two that cruise to Spitsbergen in the Arctic. New this year are 16-day escorted land/cruise packages that combine Sweden and Norway with a six-day voyage along Norway's coast; and itineraries to Greenland aboard Fram, a new expedition ship designed for cruising the country's iceberg-laden waters.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line deploys Norwegian Dream and Norwegian Jewel on seven- and 12-day itineraries that explore the Baltic capitals roundtrip from London; Egypt and Greek Islands sailings between Istanbul and Athens; and Mediterranean voyages between Istanbul and Barcelona. In October, Norwegian Gem, the line's newest ship, will offer three exclusive Mediterranean itineraries from Dover and Barcelona.
Oceania Cruises
With three ships positioned in Europe seasonally, Oceania Cruises offers guests 53 departures with 20 distinct itineraries to the Western Mediterranean, the Greek Isles and Scandinavia. The line's ships visit more than 70 ports, including more than 80 overnight stays in such perennial favorites as Athens, Dubrovnik, Istanbul, Sorrento, St.
Petersburg, Stockholm and Venice.
Orient Lines
Orient Lines' Marco Polo embarks on a variety of European itineraries throughout the year, ranging from ten to 37 days. The majority of sailings depart from April to June and feature fascinating tours that enable guests to discover the jewels of the Mediterranean and Western Europe, as well as the gems of Northern Europe and Scandinavia.
Princess Cruises
In its most dramatic Europe deployment ever, Princess Cruises positions five ships ranging from 680 to 3,100 passengers on itineraries ranging from seven to 24 days and to destinations as varied as Iceland and Egypt. The line's season runs from April 11 to December 3, featuring 81 departures on 31 itineraries, calling at 110 ports.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas' Seven Seas Voyager sails Southern, Western and Northern Europe, while Seven Seas Navigator makes the Mediterranean her home for more than six months, canvassing nearly the entire region, from the Strait of Gibraltar to the Greek Isles to the Aegean Sea. Maiden calls include ports in Croatia, England, Greece, Spain, Slovenia and Montenegro.
Royal Caribbean International
Six Royal Caribbean International vessels, including two that carry 3,100 passengers, ply a diverse array of European cruising grounds on itineraries that run from three to 12 nights. Destinations include the Baltics, the British Isles, the Canary Islands and Spain,
the Greek Isles, Italy, France, Malta, the Netherlands, Russia, and the Scandinavian countries.
Seabourn Cruise Line
In 2007, Seabourn Cruise Line's fleet of three ships again explore Europe, from the fjords of Norway to the Crimean coast of the Black Sea, arriving in the Mediterranean in spring, where Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit remain through fall. Seabourn Pride departs the Mediterranean in May, heading northward to summer in Scandinavia, Russia and the Norwegian fjords.
Seadream Yacht Club
SeaDream Yacht Club's SeaDream I and SeaDream II call at ports in the Greek Islands, the Mediterranean and Croatia on itineraries of seven to ten days, including the classic yachting ports of Nice, Monte Carlo, Cannes, St. Tropez, Santorini, Barcelona and Portofino. Its 2007 lineup offers guests more beaches, overnights and late evening in port.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises' entire fleet of four ships sail on itineraries of seven to 17 days, visiting Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe ports. Highlights include an itinerary that explores the northern regions of Sweden and Finland around the Gulf of Bothnia; and another that spends six nights in Valencia during the America's Cup race in June.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises has increased the number of Greek Isles sailings along the popular Istanbul-Athens route. Wind Spirit and Wind Star sail the Greek Isles from May to September and also offer a sprinkling of Mediterranean itineraries in early spring and late fall. Wind Surf sails on voyages that explore the Western Mediterranean from April through November.
The best way to learn more about European cruises is to seek the counsel
of a CLIA travel professional. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org .

Caribbean Continues To Rate As No. 1 Cruise Destination By Wide Margin
It's not just the Caribbean's sugary beaches that are white-hot. Travel agents polled in a recent survey by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), North America's
largest cruise industry association, substantiated what cruise insiders have known all along: The Caribbean's mantel as the most popular cruising destination remains undiminished and grows more popular by the day. In fact, nearly 80 percent of more than 500 CLIA travel agents polled named the destination as the most popular cruising ground for their agencies' customers.
Further cementing the survey findings was the fact that 88 percent of agents reported that the total number of Caribbean cruises sold at their agencies in 2006 increased over 2005—with 93 percent of respondents predicting that 2007 sales totals would surpass 2006 levels. "With Caribbean cruises, travelers basically get a two-for-one—they can enjoy warm weather and beautiful beaches and destinations that are second to none—and on ships that are destinations in themselves," said Michelle Fee, a member of CLIA's Travel Agency Advisory Board and CEO of Cruise Planners in Coral Springs, Florida. "Getting there couldn't be more convenient or flexible, with cruise lengths, itineraries and embarkation ports to suit virtually any budget and interest."
Customer satisfaction rates also soared, with nearly 90 percent of agencies reporting that their clients were very satisfied or extremely satisfied. Total satisfaction ratings were 98.5 percent.
The high level of satisfaction comes as no surprise to CLIA member cruise lines, which have debuted large numbers of their newest and most cutting-edge ships in the region. "Hands down, cruise vacationers will find the cruise industry's most innovative ships in the Caribbean," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, whose members include 21 premier cruise lines and 16,500 North American travel agencies. "The Caribbean is a veritable candy store when it comes to the array of cruise lines and ships that are available to travelers."
Other survey findings include:
* Sixty-four percent of respondents said their clients rated their chosen cruise lines and ships as the best attribute of Caribbean cruises, and also cited selling points as the Caribbean's climate, overall ambiance, ports-of-call, beaches and shopping. Forty-nine
percent cited that a cruise was the perfect way to sample Caribbean islands that they wish to visit again by ship or by land.
* Generally comparable with capacity deployment, 53 percent of respondents sold Western Caribbean itineraries most often, 34 percent the Eastern Caribbean and 9 percent the Southern Caribbean.
* Seventy-five percent cited seven-day itineraries as the most popular cruise length, 13 percent voyages of five days or less, and ten percent cruises of eight to ten days.
"No other warm-weather destination presents so many choices of ships and cruise itineraries, from a three-night getaway to an extended voyage to Central America and beyond," said Dale.

New CLIA Survey Shows Changing Wedding/Honeymoon Cruise Market
Wedding and honeymoon cruise vacations aren't just for the very young and "just married" anymore. In fact, 40 percent of travel agents report second-marriage couples are
their largest source of business and 32 percent noted they are booking more weddings on cruises along with their family and friends, according to a survey conducted by the Cruise Lines International Association, the premier marketing organization for 21 cruise lines and 16,500 North American travel agencies. "The wedding and honeymoon cruise business is off the wall - it's fabulous," said Sylvia Berman, a member of CLIA's Travel Agency Advisory Board and owner of Post Haste Travel in Hollywood, Fla. "Because couples are marrying later, they know they'll have kids sooner and if they don't travel they might have to wait 10 or 12 years."
Of the 460 CLIA-member travel agents who participated in the poll, 20 percent of agents said the biggest change in their honeymoon and wedding business came from more couples renewing vows aboard cruise ships, and eight percent saw an increase in same-sex couples choosing cruises as romantic vacation options.
According to the survey, 56 percent of agents said Generation Xers (ages 28 to 42) now represent the largest group of honeymoon and wedding cruise guests. Generation Y (ages 27 and younger) accounted for 25percent of honeymoon and wedding business, while Early Baby Boomers (ages 43 to 51) represented 13 percent and Late Boomers (ages 52 to 61) 6 percent. In other survey news, 57 percent of agents agreed that the Caribbean/Bahamas was the most popular cruising destination for couples, followed by Hawaii (23 percent), Europe (9 percent) and Alaska (7 percent).
Fifty-four percent of agents said that, on average, couples pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for the cruise portion of their vacation, while 35 percent said couples pay between $3,000 and $6,000 per couple. "Because cruises are, by nature, virtually all-inclusive, they are ideal for honeymoon and wedding couples and our member lines are definitely
seeing an increase in this market," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "Whether it's a wedding, vow renewal, a honeymoon or romantic couple's getaway, CLIA cruise lines have expanded the offerings available to these travelers with packages, features and amenities that are clearly exceeding the expectations of today's travelers."
CLIA-member cruise lines offer flexible wedding and vow renewal packages and many feature shipboard wedding chapels. Packages are available in prices to match virtually any budget and depending on the package, photographers, bridal bouquets, wedding cake, music and champagne toasts can be provided.
Honeymooners will also enjoy the atmosphere of romance aboard CLIA-member line ships, which in some cases carry fewer than 100 passengers and in other cases more than 3,000. In addition to moonlit walks on deck, couples can opt for tables for two in romantic specialty restaurants, dance in softly lit nightclubs and relax with couples
massages. Many high-end suites feature butler service that enable couples to enjoy time away from other guests, as well as al fresco balcony dining.

Weddings and Honeymoons Aboard CLIA Member Lines
Depending on the cruise line, honeymoon, wedding and vow renewal packages may be conducted on board, with services conducted by a local officiant, or while in port on embarkation day. Friends and family can join the couple for the day or opt to come along for the entire cruise. Additionally, CLIA cruise lines feature destination wedding packages that enable couples to marry in ports of call around the globe, including Caribbean beachside ceremonies to those atop rooftop villas in Europe to more adventurous venues like the peaks of Alaskan glaciers.
Following is a roundup of some of the romantic amenities and features available on CLIA member line ships:

Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines offers programs that provide couples with a memorable way to tie the knot - with all the "extras" found in traditional land-based ceremonies and with prices to match any budget. Carnival also offers destination weddings, vow renewal programs and wedding chapels on select ships, as well as wedding ceremonies at most embarkation ports.

Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises exclusively features Deck Weddings, al fresco events under white wedding canopies adorned with flowing white sheers and fresh flowers. The line also offers customizable wedding programs that let couples express themselves at every turn, and nuptials and vow renewals at sea where the captain serves as officiate.

Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises features wedding packages in most Caribbean ports of calls, enabling couples to choose a destination that perfectly suits their needs. They can also opt for ceremonies in romantic shipboard chapels. As an added bonus, they can leave all of the legwork to the ships' wedding planners and staff.

Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises' package perks include high-end wines and champagnes, portrait photos, couples' massages in Penthouse Deck accommodations and specialty shore tours such as hot air balloon rides. The line's pre-reservation service allows guests to pre-reserve special services and requests in advance. Onboard concierges also assist in ensuring seamless romantic experiences.

Cunard Line
Cunard Line offers newlyweds the unique opportunity to embark on romantic adventures with voyages between two continents aboard Queen Mary 2's signature 6-day transatlantic crossings. Honeymooners can luxuriate in Canyon Ranch SpaClub® treatments, toast a life together in the Veuve Clicquot® Champagne Bar, or dance cheek-to-cheek in the largest ballroom at sea.

Disney Cruise Line
Weddings aboard Disney Cruise Line's two ships are arranged through Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings program, which includes on-site wedding coordinators to assist with ceremonies and receptions. The wedding coordinator can also assist in booking shore excursions and spa appointments for couples. Passengers can also tie the knot on the line's private island, Castaway Cay.

Holland America Line
Whether tying the knot atop Alaskan glaciers, Caribbean islands or on board ships, Holland America Line wedding coordinators help couples' tailor programs to their specific requests. They can opt for small ceremonies and mini-receptions – or bring family friends along for larger affairs. Packages include personalized ceremonies with a choice of trimmings.

MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers packages that include such amenities as chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to staterooms and breakfast in bed. Couples can also opt for spa packages that include massages for two. The line can also coordinate activities, such as parties and special shore excursions, for couples traveling with friends and family.

Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers wedding package options in such destinations as New York, Bermuda and the Caribbean, as well as weddings aboard its ships. The line's planners can handle every detail of the big day for couples and their friends and families—from ceremonies to champagne toasts to wedding announcements.

Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises, the only line that enables captains to marry couples* at sea, also features harbor-side ceremonies in embarkation ports or weddings ashore in select ports. Those guests exchanging vows in shipboard chapels can take advantage of live Wedding Cams to share their special day with family and friends at home.
*Princess ships are registered in Bermuda, which allows captains to perform wedding ceremonies at sea.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Couples sailing on Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Paul Gauguin Tahiti itineraries can partake in vow renewal ceremonies, which Polynesian blessings performed by Les Gauguines, native women who serve as cultural hosts on board. Options aboard sister ships include helicopter weddings to Alaskan Glaciers, quaint Canadian inns and uninhabited Caribbean cays.

Royal Caribbean International
Couples who sign on for "Explorer Wedding," which debuts later this year, can choose adventurous wedding options that include marrying while atop glaciers, surfing on shipboard FlowRiders or snorkeling in the Caribbean. The line's more traditional wedding and romance packages include shore-side vow renewals at its private island in Labadee, Haiti.

Seabourn Cruise Line
On Seabourn Cruise Line ships, couples can enjoy romantic dinners, served course by course, in their own suites. Late in the evenings, they lounge on deck with champagne and caviar. A word from the bride summons the stewardess, who prepares baths with therapeutic oils, crowning the snowy foam with flower petals.

Seadream Yacht Club
SeaDream Yacht Club features wedding vow renewal ceremony packages accompanied by onboard guitarists and conducted by the captains. On SeaDream yachts, couples enjoy such romantic options as dining alone in nooks and crannies on deck, lolling in double Balinese sun beds and enjoying his and hers massages in the onboard spa.

Silversea Cruises
Silversea's Personalized Voyages lets couples tailor their honeymoon cruise to suit their own tastes by choosing when and where to embark and disembark from more than 200 destinations. On board, they can reserve romantic candlelit tables for two in the restaurant or dine in the privacy of their suites at no additional charge.

Windstar Cruises
Sailing in the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Panama Canal, Mediterranean and Greek Isles, Windstar itineraries are naturally romantic, visiting a host of secluded ports. An array of vow renewal, honeymoon and wedding packages are available, with wedding arrangements coordinated through Windstar's professional wedding planners who assist with each and every detail.
The best way to learn more about romantic onboard options is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org .

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 21 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies.

Cruise Industry Poised For Record-Breaking 2007

For the cruise industry, 2006 proved to be another year of upward evolution, with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines continuing to break new ground on many fronts. For 2007, new and refurbished ships will continue to raise the bar with even more innovative facilities and amenities; new ports of call are keeping itineraries fresh and exciting; and increased enrichment programming is completely in sync with today's quests for experiential vacation options.
The interest in cruise vacations has indeed reached new heights, a fact that is clearly evidenced in the record number of ships - 100 - that have, or will, enter service between 2000 and 2010. Seven new ships debuted in 2006, and another nine are scheduled to launch in 2007.
With more than 150 vessels, carrying from as few as 50 guests to as many as 3,600, CLIA cruise lines sate the interests of multigenerational travelers, including baby boomers, families, newlyweds, Gen-Xers, seniors, first-time and repeat sailors—and everyone else in between.
Both new cruisers and those who are veterans are indulging on every element of their cruise vacations, opting to upgrade to balcony and suite accommodations, and purchasing itineraries that are longer and to more exotic locales. Furthermore, the luxury cruise market is experiencing a renaissance, as legions of travelers seek out the posh amenities and facilities of these ships, as well as their innovative and far-flung itineraries.
Closer to home, North American ports also continue to exceed the expectations of travelers. More than 8.6 million passengers embarked on cruise vacations from U.S. ports, which handled 75 percent of all global embarkations in 2005, representing an increase of 6 percent over 2004.
With a 4.5 percent ship capacity increase, the number of guests boarding ships from U.S. ports continued to blossom in 2006, a trend that is expected to accelerate in 2007.
As the cruise industry matures, so too do baby boomers. They are a formidable swath of the population that grew up on rock ‘n roll, who, although aging chronologically, remain forever "young at heart." In travel terms, baby boomers seek vacations that incorporate active and adventurous elements but are unwilling to sacrifice creature comforts.
Fortunately, new ships debuting in 2007 continue to push the bar on innovations, expanding the evolutionary process that began decades ago by adding more bells and whistles, but not at the expense of service. Cruisers can luxuriate in five-star spas; dine at multiple restaurants - some affiliated with celebrity chefs; participate in heart-pounding shores excursions, and attend entertaining and thought-provoking lectures. "Today's traveler is seeking intellectual fulfillment while on vacation," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the chief marketing organization for 21 leading cruise lines and nearly 16,500 North American travel agencies. "CLIA cruise lines are responding to baby boomers' desires with onboard enrichment programs that include a wide range of focus areas."
Depending on the cruise line, vacationers can attend a workshop in Shakespearian acting taught by alumni of London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, study French with a Berlitz instructor or discover undersea wonders with oceanographer Jean-Michel Cousteau.
Guests lecturers might include noted astronomers to shed light on the galaxies; authors who discuss their best-selling books; scientists, naturalists and explorers who explain little-known destinations, flora and species; and diplomats, politicians and professors who help bring foreign peoples and cultures to life.
New destinations: At the same time, the trend to visit destinations farther a field will flourish in 2007, and each successive year thereafter, quenching pent-up wanderlust. CLIA travel agencies report that intrepid travelers are booking cruise vacations to such regions as Asia, South America and the South Pacific. And closer to home - in the Caribbean - cruise lines are introducing new itineraries that delve deeper into less-trafficked island gems, from Antigua south to Trinidad. "Unlike traveling by air, cruises are fundamentally hassle free, transporting vacationers to exotic destinations that on land would be difficult and in some cases impossible to visit," noted Dale.
The Old World, which has benefited from sold-out summer seasons in 2005 and 2006, is on track to record another banner year. CLIA-member cruise lines will be adding new ports along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, as well as in southern Italy, Turkey, Greece and Spain.
Passports needed: However, those travelers without passports will soon miss the boat on itineraries that blanket the globe if they don't obtain passports. Although Congress extended the deadline of passport requirements for cruise passengers, travelers can expect the cruise industry to continue to promote the value of passports because they are in effect, priceless.
Less than half of U.S. cruisers on voyages five days or less have passports, but CLIA cruise lines are continually launching new itineraries to exciting foreign destinations. Postponing the application process is likely to result in disappointment on the part of many travelers. To learn how to apply for a passport, visit www.travel.state.gov/passport.
Romance at sea: An ocean voyage has been the quintessential romantic vacation for generations, from Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr in "An Affair to Remember" to Leonardo di Caprio and Kate Winslet's epic "Titanic" love affair. Star-crossed cruisers can dine al fresco on their stateroom verandah, enjoy high-energy floorshows, flirt with Lady Luck, dance cheek-to-cheek, or savor the sea air on a moonlit stroll on deck.
Not surprisingly, cruises are ideal for honeymooners—a fact that has led to a burgeoning of this market segment—whether 20-something couples or newlyweds in their 40s and 50s celebrating a first or subsequent marriage. Depending on the cruise line, ships' captains can perform a legally binding wedding at sea or ceremonies can be held on board by a local officiant while in port on embarkation day, allowing family and friends to join in the festivities. In growing popularity, wedding guests are invited to sail with the couple.
Family vacation: Cruises provide the ideal vacation venue to maintain close ties, and larger numbers of family groups are bringing several generations together. For maturing boomers, family is a priority, as is finding meaningful ways to bond with children and grandchildren who may live far away. Today's cruise ships are uniquely able to satisfy the ever-changing dynamics of modern American families, which might also include step-parents and children, plus cousins, aunts and uncles and family friends.
Luxury cruises: In 2006, the majority of luxury ships sailed full - thanks in part to increased affluence and younger, first-time cruisers who have discovered luxury cruising's huge appeal. Business is so buoyant, in fact, that for the first time in many years orders are being placed for new ships catering to this segment of the cruise industry.
The traveling public has become aware that luxury cruises offer tremendous value and 2007 is predicted to be another stellar year. The sumptuous accommodations on today's CLIA-member luxury vessels are a far cry from their predecessors of 25 years ago. Balcony suites and staterooms are now the norm rather than the exception, as are luxury appointments and plush amenities. The attention to detail extends throughout all areas - food, entertainment and public facilities - coupled with gracious, attentive service.
Early booking: The travel industry trend toward making cruise reservations far in advance is predicted to accelerate even further in 2007, with consumers heeding CLIA's message that early bookers are ensured the best savings and their optimum choices in ships, staterooms and sailings. According to Dale, "Some CLIA travel agents have reported that travelers booked 2008 cruises nearly two years in advance. Others have said that their 2007 booking levels are already exceeding those of 2006."
The best way to learn more about these cruise industry developments and trends is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 21 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies.

Bigger Isn't Always Better When It Comes To Cruising Exotic Locales
When it comes to exploring off-the-beaten-ports of call, smaller ships offer big adventures. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) counts as its members 20
diverse cruise lines, of which eight operate vessels that fall into the "small ship" category. While large mega-liners offer nonstop activities and extensive onboard facilities, smaller ships focus on voyages of discovery that explore secluded coves and hidden harbors that larger vessels often must bypass because of their larger size.
CLIA member lines that include American Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Coastal Voyage, Pearl Seas Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Windstar Cruises all offer fascinating, destination-rich itineraries on ships that carry 500 passengers or less.
Itineraries span the globe, reaching as far north as the Arctic Circle to the Antarctic Peninsula in the south. Travelers can visit New England's quaint summer playgrounds of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, the protected wildlife sanctuary of the Galapagos Islands, remote Viking settlements in the land of the proverbial Midnight Sun, and legendary European resorts along the French Riviera and Italian, Iberian and
Dalmatian coasts.
Here's a sampling of the intriguing itineraries offered by CLIA-member
cruise lines:
American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines offers unique itineraries aboard three ships that carry no more than 100 passengers along the smooth, inland waterways of the U.S. on itineraries between Maine and Florida. Culturally enriching, behind-the-scenes shore excursions and informal lectures from a cadre of naturalists, historians, and other experts bring destinations alive with their knowledge and passion for American heritage.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises transports guests to the Galapagos Islands aboard the yacht-like, 94-passenger Celebrity Xpedition. Itineraries of seven-plus days enable travelers to snorkel, hike and explore the Galapagos, mingling with sea lions, chatting with environmental experts and enjoying dinner and dancing under the stars, all in one day. They can
dine at the outdoor grill or in the elegant main restaurant.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage
Twelve ships in the Norwegian Coastal Voyage fleet carry 100 to 490
passengers along Norway's coast between Bergen and Kirkenes, as far
north as Spitsbergen and Greenland. The line also visits Antarctica
during the austral summer season. Ships are large enough to be
comfortable but small enough to sail close to the shore to take in the
stunning scenery.
Pearl Seas Cruises
Pearl Seas Cruises is CLIA's newest member. Beginning in 2008, it will visit the Canadian Maritimes, Newfoundland, New England and the Caribbean aboard intimate, luxury vessels that can slip into off-the-beaten path destinations as well as better-known ports. Pearl's first ship will carry 165 passengers and debut in July 2008. A second
210-passenger ship inaugurates service in June 2009.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Paul Gauguin (330 guests) and Seven Seas Navigator (490 guests) boast an ambiance that is relaxed, yet highly accommodating. Passengers can avail themselves of such intimate one-to-one experiences as Le Cordon Bleu workshops, which are limited to 16 participants, Circles of Interest programs that enable like-minded guests to experience personalized shore excursions and onboard lectures.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Cruise Line itineraries are —and maneuverability. Ports that are inaccessible or impractical for larger ships are one of the major attractions for Seabourn guests. Uppermost in travelers' minds is the level of personalized service and the sense that
they are part of an intimate club.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises' four-ship fleet offers guests high levels of personalized service and a spacious, uncrowded feeling. All suites afford ocean views, private sitting areas and most have private verandas. Open- seating at meal times is complimented by such large-ship
hallmarks as show lounges with nightly entertainment, casinos, state-of-the-art spa and fitness facilities, and broad, teak decks.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises' tag line "180 Degrees From Ordinary" aptly describes the line's casually elegant shipboard atmosphere. Its three motor sailing yachts, which carry between 148 and 308 guests, sail the world's most beautiful waters calling at 100 exotic locales and hidden harbors that larger ships must bypass. Itineraries for 2006-2007 include ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas.

The best way to learn more about these destination-intensive itineraries is to seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional, considered the consumer's very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 20 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment.
CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members nearly 17,000 travel agencies.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Holidays On The High Seas Provide The Fun And Festivities Of Home
There is only one thing travelers sailing on holiday cruises won't find: hassles. They can leave such time-intensive tasks as meal preparation and party planning behind - leaving those details in the capable hands of shipboard staff. Cruise vacations aboard the ships of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines enable guests to focus on what the holidays are really all about, which is spending quality time with loved ones.
Vacationers, whether traveling independently, with their spouse or as part of a large, multi-generational group, will find innovative facilities, amenities and services aboard today's cruise ships. Such passenger-pleasing features include elegant public rooms, balcony cabins, gourmet and casual dining options, live nightly entertainment, state-of-the-art spas and fitness centers, casinos, video arcades and more. There's plenty to do, from exercise classes to golf instruction, art auctions to cooking demonstrations, enrichment lectures to computer learning workshops.
The holiday spirit is also bountiful aboard CLIA-member line ships, which are sometimes wrapped like exquisite holiday gifts. Vessels are adorned with twinkling lights, menorahs, mistletoe, wreaths, holly and other decorations. Santa Claus often makes a guest appearance, and regardless of whether passengers celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanza, they'll be sure to savor a wide range of holiday shows, films and gala dinners.
On December 25, nearly every CLIA-member line will offer an ecumenical Christmas worship service, with a Roman Catholic Mass also celebrated on some ships. "Holiday cruises provide travelers with a chance to thoroughly revel in the holidays, leaving the hassles of everyday life behind," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the chief marketing organization for 20 leading cruise lines and nearly 17,000 North American travel agencies. "Best of all, there's a joyful energy on board that will captivate everyone, from grandparents to toddlers."
Here is what CLIA member lines offer travelers during the holidays:
American Cruise Lines
The three vessels in the American Cruise Lines fleet celebrate the holidays with itineraries to the Antebellum South, visiting its glittering bays, elegant mansions, moss-draped oaks and abundant wildlife. Another itinerary explores the rivers of Florida, including the St. Johns River, taking in the beauty of its remote islands, history, architecture, beaches, seaports and cities.
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines decorates its ships with Christmas trees, wreaths and mistletoe. The line features production shows where children participate and their handmade decorations from Camp Carnival, the onboard kids' program, are displayed. Santa Claus comes aboard, toting a bag of gifts that are distributed to youngsters. Also, a range of holiday-themed movies are aired.
Celebrity Cruises
At Celebrity Cruises, holiday itineraries include the Caribbean, Hawaii, Panama Canal and South America. Ships are decorated for Christmas and Hanukkah. Festivities include eggnog parties, caroling, and special holiday meals. New Year's Eve parties come complete with party favors, live reports and countdowns with ship captains. On Christmas Day, guests will find gifts in their staterooms.
Costa Cruises
The holidays come with festive, Italian touches at Costa Cruises aboard Costa Magica and Costa Mediterranea, which ply the Caribbean. The ships will be decorated with lavish Christmas trees appointed with twinkling lights and opulent ornaments. Dinner menus offer guests a mix of the line's renowned Italian cuisine as well as a healthy sampling of holiday favorites.
Crystal Cruises
Sumptuous dinners, gala parties and lavish decorations are par for the course aboard Crystal Cruises' Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony during the holidays. To make the holiday season even merrier, on December 22 Crystal Symphony embarks on a 12-day Mexican Riviera sailing out of San Diego - marking Crystal's only roundtrip voyage from the city in 2006.
Cunard Line
From December 23 until January 9, 2007 Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 is proud to offer two unique shows by London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art: "A Christmas Carol" and "Happy Hanukkah, Mr. Scrooge," a piece specially commissioned for the line. Queen Elizabeth 2 sails on a 16-night"Festive Atlantic Islands & Africa voyage, departing December 17.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line's 1,000-acre Bahamian island, Castaway Cay, is transformed into a "snowy" holiday hideaway with carolers, sleighs full of presents and visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The atrium lobbies onboard Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will host tree-lighting ceremonies, complete with "snow" flurries and a three-deck-tall Christmas tree festooned with decorations as their centerpiece. (More details at Family Cruises.)
Holland America Line
Holland America Line invites travelers to celebrate the season on one of 19 holiday escapes, which include Christmas itineraries to popular Caribbean and Mexico ports, a thrilling expedition to Antarctica and Patagonia, and a New Year's cruise down under. Departures range from seven to 20 days, accommodating the schedules of professionals, school kids and grandparents alike.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises' fleet is thoroughly decked out in holiday finery. Ships feature special holiday menus as well as seasonal entertainment. MSC Lirica departs Fort Lauderdale on December 18 for an 11-night sailing to Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and Grand Cayman. MSC Opera sails on a 17-night transatlantic cruise from Genoa to Fort Lauderdale on December 16.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage
On Norwegian Coastal Voyage, passengers take in a winter wonderland onboard and outside. The snow-clad landscape between Bergen and Kirkenes is aglow with twinkling lights from villages and lighthouses. And, if the atmospheric conditions are right they'll see the Northern Lights flash across the sky. Onboard, ships are decked out with all the holiday trimmings.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Guests sailing aboard NCL and NCL America ships will find a festive holiday ambiance, interactive shows, caroling, themed menus and Christmas Eve worship services. Menorahs are located throughout public areas to remind passengers of this special time of year. On New Year's Eve, partygoers can ring in the New Year with party hats and streamers.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises' fleet offers a wide range of Christmas and New Year's cruises that span the globe, including itineraries in the Caribbean, Mexico, Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand, South America, Hawaii and the South Pacific. Activities are available for each and every family member and ships are decorated from stem to stern in tasteful holiday décor.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers holiday cruises in the Mexican Riviera, Caribbean and French Polynesia. On December 11, the all-suite Navigator of the Seas embarks on a seven-day Spotlight on Sweets cruise featuring Christophe Michalak, head pastry chef at the Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris, who will conduct cooking demonstrations and offer samplings of his award-winning sweets.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International's fleet of 20 ships transforms into winter wonderlands with caroling, eggnog parties, gingerbread displays and Christmas trees, on holiday sailings to the Caribbean, Mexico and Panama Canal. The Adventure Ocean program, which offers supervised activities for children of all ages, features holiday-related activities, including cookie decorating, holiday shows, kids caroling, and pictures with Santa.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Cruise Line's Seabourn Pride and Seabourn Legend sail 14-day roundtrips from Fort Lauderdale to a bevy of inviting Caribbean islands for the holidays, offering revelers their choice of a traditional two-week Caribbean holiday cruise that includes both Christmas and New Year's or separate seven-day Christmas or New Year's cruises that begin or end at Caribbean ports.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises' fleet is resplendent with opulent decorations that echo the spirit of the season with many of the artful displays created by the line's master chefs. Whimsical gingerbread cottages and seasonal cookies adorn lounges, adding a touch of old-fashioned holiday charm. Christian clergy lead ecumenical worship services for Christmas and menorahs are lit daily during Hanukkah.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises ships will feature holiday itineraries to Costa Rica and the Southern Caribbean, setting the stage for memorable celebrations. From Costa Rica's Puerto Caldera, Wind Star sets sail on an eco-adventure that explores the Pacific Coast. Wind Surf and Wind Spirit guests can soak up the Caribbean sun on sailings departing from Barbados or St. Thomas.

Editor's Note: Click Cruise Itinerary News/Offers for more information on cruise lines celebrating the holidays.

Southern Caribbean Itineraries Offer Adventures In Less-Charted Waters

Caribbean-bound cruise ships generally ply any one of three distinct but equally alluring routes: eastern and western itineraries, readily available from a wide variety of U.S. homeports, visit the Bahamas and the most popular Caribbean ports of call, while southern Caribbean sailings transport travelers deeper into the region, to the Leeward Islands and beyond.
Southern Caribbean cruises visit the idyllic and diminutive islands from Antigua south to Trinidad, and along the northeastern coast of South America. These voyages offer cruisers port-intensive itineraries that take in some of the Caribbean's lesser-known and most pristine islands.
These cruises sail from San Juan, Barbados, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and ports in New York and Florida. Most Southern Caribbean itineraries are seven days or longer, with port calls made virtually every day. Destinations include Aruba, Barbados, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, St. Barts, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Margarita Island, Martinique, Trinidad and Tobago, plus several ports located at South America's tip.
The following CLIA member lines traverse Southern Caribbean on itineraries that sail out of Caribbean ports in 2006 and 2007:

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines' 2,642-passenger, 101,353-ton Carnival Destiny operates year-round seven-day sailings roundtrip from San Juan that call at the islands of St. Thomas/St. John, Dominica, Barbados, St. Lucia and Antigua.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' Galaxy sails roundtrip from San Juan on 10- and 11-night cruises, visiting Tortola, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Margarita Island, Curacao, Aruba, Dominica and St. Kitts, depending on the itinerary.

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises offers a selection of seven-, ten- and 14-day itineraries that visit deep Caribbean ports, sailing roundtrip from Miami. Destinations include Antigua, Bonaire, Grand Turk, St. Lucia and Tortola.

Costa Cruises

Select sailings on the Costa Magica and Costa Mediterranea depart from Ft. Lauderdale and visit ports including St. Maarten and Tortola, while a variety of shore excursions allow guests to experience the natural beauty and culture of the islands.

Cunard Line

Queen Mary 2 sails two seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Ft. Lauderdale in December 2006; Southern Caribbean Liner and Dreamers Western Caribbean. Calls include Barbados; St. Kitts; St. Thomas; Montego Bay; and Cozumel.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line explores the Southern Caribbean with a variety of itineraries that range from ten0 to 14 days. Five ships journey to 18 different ports of call on 36 departures.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' takes guests to such exotic ports as Grenada, Barbados, Tortola, St. Lucia, Martinique, Margarita Island and Samana (Dominican Republic), featuring the line's private paradise, Cayo Levantado.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line features nine-, ten- and 11-day Southern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from New York and Miami. Depending on the itinerary selected, destinations include Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada and Tortola.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' Regatta offers travelers an array of itineraries roundtrip from Miami that visit sophisticated St. Barts, lush Dominica, charming Antigua, beautiful Samana and the diving Mecca of Grand Turk.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises' features seven-, ten- and 14-day Southern Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan and Barbados. Destinations include Antigua, Dominica, Grand Turk, St. Barts, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and Tortola.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Depending on the sailing date, Regent Seven Seas' itineraries call at Dominica, Grand Turk, St. Barts, St. Thomas and Tortola. Seven-, eight-, ten- and 11-day cruises are available from Fort Lauderdale.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International positions Adventure of the Seas, Empress of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas on deep Caribbean itineraries roundtrip from San Juan. Three-, seven- and 11-night voyages are available.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line offers seven-day southern Caribbean voyages aboard Seabourn Pride from Barbados and St. Maarten in November and December 2006 and on Seabourn Legend from St. Thomas in early 2007.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises features itineraries ranging from seven to 12 days with departures from San Juan and Barbados aboard Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper in late 2006 and the first and last quarters of 2007.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises' Wind Spirit and Wind Surf sail seven-day cruises to the deep Caribbean from December through March. Wind Spirit sails roundtrip from St. Thomas. Wind Surf sails roundtrip from Barbados.

To learn more about these exciting itineraries seek the counsel of a CLIA travel professional. To locate an agency near you, use the travel agent locator on CLIA's Web site at www.cruising.org.

Learning Enrichment Programs, Cooking Classes Abound On CLIA Member Lines

Learning The Ins and Outs of Cooking From World Celebrated Chefs
Foodies seeking reservations at these celebrity chefs' tony, shoreside restaurants will likely have to wait months. But aboard today's cruise ships, vacationers have unlimited access to the creative cuisine of these talented gourmands. That's because celebrity chefs from around the world are partnering with the member fleets of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) in a variety of ways. In some cases, celebrity chefs serve as culinary consultants ensuring guests enjoy the best and freshest fare. Celebrity chefs are also offering their signature cuisine on dining room menus, while others have partnered with cruise lines to create full-scale alternative dining restaurants that mirror the style, ambience, and gastronomy of their land-based eateries.
CLIA's member lines also offer themed culinary sailings, featuring talented celebrity chefs and wine connoisseurs - in addition to well-known cookbook authors and television cooking-show hosts.
Following is a listing of celebrity chef dining programs available aboard CLIA's member cruise lines:
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines offers its George Blanc Signature Selections - one-of-a-kind appetizers, entrees and desserts created by the world-renowned French master chef who has maintained the coveted three stars from Michelin for more than 25 years. Blanc and his staff have also trained Carnival's chefs both at his restaurants in Vonnas, France, and aboard the line's ships.
Celebrity Cruises
Renowned chef, culinary consultant and cookbook author Michel Roux has served as Celebrity Cruises' culinary consultant since 1989. Under Roux's direction, Celebrity offers choices in both menu and venue, enabling guests to diversify their shipboard dining experience - the most innovative among them being the line's intimate specialty restaurants available aboard select vessels.
Costa Cruise Lines
Club Concordia, the specialty restaurant aboard Costa Cruise Lines' new Costa Concordia, highlights menu items from Ettore Bocchia of Italy's Michelin-rated Villa Serbelloni and the creator of Italian "molecular" cuisine. Bocchia's innovative creative process looks at the physical and chemical properties of food and then enhances their flavors and creates new textures.
Crystal Cruises
Among its many guest chefs, Crystal Cruises' fleet features Italian cuisine by Piero Selvaggio, owner of Valentino restaurants, in Prego. Crystal Serenity showcases contemporary Asian cuisine in Silk Road and The Sushi Bar with dishes created by Nobu Matsuhisa and prepared by Nobu-trained chefs. On Crystal Symphony an Asian menu at Jade Garden highlights selections from Wolfgang Puck's Chinois restaurant.
Cunard Line
Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 features a restaurant designed by acclaimed chef and restaurateur Todd English. The 156-seat restaurant - simply called Todd English - highlights his interpretive Mediterranean cuisine. The popularity and demand of this unique dining venue has propelled another Todd English restaurant onboard Queen Victoria, which is scheduled to debut in December 2007.
Disney Cruise Lines
Disney Cruise Lines' Disney Magic and Disney Wonder feature a guest chef from the Walt Disney World Resort once per month. Guest chefs are also featured on the line's longer itineraries such as the 14-night Transatlantic crossing when Disney Magic repositions from Port Canaveral to Barcelona for its inaugural Mediterranean cruise season in spring 2007.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line features top chefs, wine experts and leading cookbook authors as part of its Culinary Arts Center program in connection with Food & Wine magazine. With the chefs, passengers can participate in demonstrations and seminars in state-of-the-art "show kitchens at sea," which resemble the elaborate show kitchens used on television cooking programs.
Oceania Cruises
Jacques Pepin, the personal chef to three heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle, serves as Oceania Cruises' executive culinary director. Pepin, who is also a food columnist and cookbook author, designs all menus for the line. Each year he hosts a cruise featuring cooking demos, food and wine lectures and special menus.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises boast the only Le Cordon Bleu restaurants at sea - Signatures, aboard Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner - through its exclusive partnership with Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute. The line features Le Cordon Bleu workshops for guests as well as a variety of chefs and wine writers/consultants on select cruises.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Charlie Palmer, the celebrated chef and restaurateur, oversees the cuisine served aboard Seabourn Cruise Line's three all-suite ships. A two-time James Beard Award-winner, Palmer is the proprietor of nine fine-dining establishments including Aureole, the Charlie Palmer Steak and the Dry Creek Kitchen in the Palmer-owned Healdsburg Hotel in California's Sonoma County wine country.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises partners with Relais & Châteaux to provide Culinary Arts sailings with Relais gourmands who display their epicurean artistry during informative and entertaining cooking demonstrations. Through the partnership, chef Jacques Thorel, owner of two-starred L'Auberge Bretonne, provides the line with culinary consultation and has created its La Collection du Monde signature dishes.
Windstar Cruises
For the last 12 years, Windstar Cruises has worked with Chef Joachim Splichal of the Los Angeles-based Patina Group, Splichal's collection of award-winning restaurants. He creates dining room menus for the three-ship fleet and has also designed a special menu for Wind Surf's Bistro when it serves as a steakhouse four nights a week.

Learning-Enrichment Courses Latest Trend On Cruise Vacations
There was a time not long ago when the words "education" and "vacation" were rarely used in the same sentence. But, with the graying of the baby boomer generation, more travelers are seeking intellectual fulfillment while on vacation, and the member
companies of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) are responding with enlightening onboard enrichment programs that provide guests with a variety of learning experiences while at sea.
Today's cruise lines offer enrichment programs to sate mind, body and spirit. Depending on the cruise line, vacationers can attend a workshop in Shakespearian acting taught by alumni of London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, or study French with a Berlitz instructor or discover undersea wonders with oceanographer Jean-Michel Cousteau.
Guest lecturers also include noted astronomers who shed light on the galaxies; celebrated authors who discuss their best-selling books; celebrated diplomats, politicians and professors that help bring foreign peoples and cultures to life; and scientists, naturalists and explorers who explain little-known destinations, flora and species. "Guests who choose to learn on a cruise are seeking an entertaining educational experience," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "Guests aboard CLIA member-line ships give consistently high scores to the cruise lines' innovative enrichment programs."
The following is a listing of CLIA-member cruise lines offering onboard enrichment programs:
American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines' "enlighteners" include naturalists, historians and academics who enhance each voyage. During informal lectures, open discussions and workshops, these experts bring local history, nature and culture alive with their knowledge and passion for American heritage. They also lead sightseeing excursions, providing guests with insights
and behind-the-scenes visits to a wide sampling of America's most intriguing destinations.
Carnival Cruise Lines
During Carnival Cruise Lines' Alaska voyages aboard Carnival Spirit, marine biologists and wildlife specialists describe the passing scenery and sea and animal life from the ship's bridge. The third annual Mind/Body cruise on Carnival Glory in December features comprehensive nutrition, fitness and wellness workshops by leading experts.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises invites two to five special guest lecturers on board to participate in its Discovery Enrichment Series program. Topics range from finance and astronomy, to wine education and politics, to history and culture. Upcoming 2006 enrichment lecturers include Olympian Brian Goodell, astronaut Col. R. Walter Cunningham, former news correspondent Irving R. Levine, and former Southwest Airlines CEO Howard Putnam.
Costa Cruises
Guests can experience a true mind and body overhaul with the Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise, which sets sail in March 2007 aboard Costa Cruises' Costa Magica. The Caribbean itinerary will feature noted practioners and authors who will enlighten travelers on how to enhance their lives with practical tools and workshops about vegan and macrobiotic cooking, meditation and heart disease.
Crystal Cruises
From destination experts, scientists, authors, politicians and actors Crystal Cruises offers a diverse spectrum of enrichment lecturers for its well-educated and discerning clientele. Under the umbrella of its Creative Learning Institute, Crystal offers wellness seminars conducted by The Cleveland Clinic and The Tai Chi Cultural Center, Berlitz language immersion, Yamaha keyboard instruction, and destination specific lecturers from the Smithsonian Institution.
Cunard Line
Cunard Line ships have a long tradition of onboard enrichment. Queen Mary 2 offers "Oxford Discovery," in conjunction with London's prestigious University of Oxford, which features guest lecturers who speak on such topics as entomology, creative writing, political science and art. Passengers can also learn Shakespearian acting at workshops
taught by alumni of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
Disney Cruise Lines
Guests sailing on Disney Cruise Lines' eastern and alternate western Caribbean itineraries can learn what goes into making the magic throughout the Walt Disney Company with the Disney Behind the Scenes presenter program. On longer itineraries, Disney also offers presentations by guest lecturers. Additionally, once per month, the line
brings on a guest chef from the Walt Disney World Resort.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line enhances the destination experience with region-specific enrichment opportunities such as the Explorations Speaker Series and demonstrations and classes presented by noted chefs in cooperation with Food & Wine magazine. Featured lecturers include archeologist Dr. Mark Aldenofer, astronomer Dr. Normal Caisse,
Emmy-winning ABC News Producer Lynn Friedman of San Francisco, and Ethel
Merman and Lucille Ball scholar/author Geoffrey Mark.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises enrichment program features experts in a variety of fields including golf, art and bridge. Instructors also conduct arts and crafts, photography and wine tasting workshops. On astral theme cruises guests learn about constellations, celestial navigation and the astrological and astronomical concept of the zodiac. Former Major League
baseball players provide insight into the game on two Caribbean sailings.
Norwegian Coastal Voyages
Norwegian Coastal Voyages features an expedition team of esteemed lecturers on all sailings to Antarctica under the direction of Tomas Holik, who first visited Antarctica in 1991 as a researcher at the Polish base. He is joined by Dr. John Chardine, with the Canadian Wildlife Service, and explorer Alan Parker, awarded the Polar Medal for
outstanding Antarctic service, among others.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line vessels operating intra-Hawaiian island itineraries feature Hawaiian arts and crafts classes that include lei making. Representatives from the Pacific Whale Foundation, one of Maui's most significant conservation and research organizations, provide illustrated lectures on marine conservation. Destination, lifestyle,
wellness, computer, bridge, and arts and crafts lecturers are featured on variety of sailings, depending on the itinerary.
Princess Cruises
Through Princess Cruises' ScholarShip@Sea program, passengers take home more than happy memories and souvenirs. They also bring home new skills and knowledge - and perhaps their own ceramic artwork. The program offers a robust portfolio of edu-tainment courses in which experts edify travelers on such topics as the culinary arts, visual arts, computer skills, digital photography, finance, web page design and
pottery.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises' "Circles of Interest" program is designed to enhance the destination experience for guests with onboard lectures, workshops and specially crafted shore excursions whose themes include art, design and museums, history, archaeology and literature. Through an exclusive partnership, Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society colleagues share their broad knowledge about the sea with guests.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International itineraries offer programs that delve into an eclectic range of topics. Programs run the gamut, from home improvement and gardening to the performing arts and entertainment. A New Di