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easyCruise
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Norwegian Cruise Line
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Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Offers 32 Short Cruise Itineraries from 12 North American Homeports
Carnival will offer 32 different short cruise itinerary choices from 12 “close-to-home” departure points in 2007, including the first year-round cruise program from San Diego aboard the 2,052-passenger Elation beginning June 2.
Carnival’s 2007 short cruise itineraries include:
-- 2,052-passenger Fascination – year-round three-day Bahamas and four-day western Caribbean cruises from Miami
-- 2,052-passenger Imagination – year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean voyages from Miami
-- 2,052-passenger Sensation – year-round three- and four-day Bahamas cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla.
-- 2,052-passenger Elation – four- and five-day Bahamas/eastern Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral (through April 28); year-round four- and five-day Mexico cruises from San Diego (beginning June 2)
-- 2,052-passenger Inspiration – year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from Tampa
-- 1,486-passenger Celebration – year-round four-day Bahamas and five-day Key West/Bahamas cruises from Jacksonville, Fla.
-- 1,452-passenger Holiday – year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from Mobile, Ala.
-- 2,056-passenger Fantasy – year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from New Orleans
-- 2,052-passenger Ecstasy – year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from Galveston, Texas
2,052-passenger Paradise – year-round three- and four-day day Baja cruises from Long Beach, Calif.
-- 2,758-passenger Carnival Victory – seasonal four- and five-day Canada cruises from New York (June 12 – Sept. 3); special five-day Bahamas cruises departing Charleston, S.C. May 28 and Oct. 16; special two-day cruises from Norfolk, Va., departing June 9 and Oct. 13
-- 2,974-passenger Carnival Freedom – special one-time four-day western Caribbean voyage from Miami departing November 12
-- 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph – special one-time five-day western Caribbean cruise from New Orleans departing Aug. 28
-- 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle – special one-time two-day cruise departing from New York Oct. 18
For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups) or visit the line’s travel agent Internet portal, www.bookccl.com.
Carnival To Offer Mediterranean & Greek Isles Cruises In 2007/2008
Following strong initial consumer response to Carnival Freedom’s inaugural Mediterranean/Greek Isles cruise program set to begin this spring, Carnival Cruise Lines has announced that the 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom will return to Europe for another season of 12-day voyages in 2008.
Carnival Freedom’s 2008 European cruise season will encompass 12-day “Grand Mediterranean” and 12-day Mediterranean & Greek Isles cruises operating May 10 to Oct. 25. Currently nearing the final stages of construction at Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard, the 2,974-passenger vessel is slated to debut in Europe March 5, 2007.
12-Day Mediterranean & Greek Isles Voyages Aboard Carnival Freedom
Carnival Freedom’s 2008 Europe season will kick off with a 12-day Mediterranean & Greek Isles voyage departing May 10, 2008. Other departure dates include June 15, August 14, September 19 and October 25, 2008. These cruises will feature eight spectacular ports: Naples, Italy; Rhodes, Greece; Izmir (Ephesus) and Istanbul, Turkey, featuring scenic cruising of the Dardanelles; Athens (Piraeus) and Katakolon, Greece; and Livorno, Italy, as well as an overnight call in Rome (Civitavecchia).
These voyages offer a variety of unforgettable landside experiences, including visiting the legendary Acropolis and the Temple of Poseidon in Greece, as well as the ancient cities of Olympia, Priere, Didyma and Miletus, four of the best-preserved settlements of Grecian history. With the extended call in Istanbul, guests can visit the fabled Blue Mosque and Topkapi Museum, while the overnight call in Civitavecchia provides an opportunity to visit Rome to see the fabled Coliseum or to Vatican City to tour St. Peter’s Basilica.
Carnival Freedom’s 12-Day “Grand Mediterranean” Cruises
The 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises will depart May 22, June 3 and 27, July 9 and 21, Aug. 2 and 26, Sept. 7, and Oct. 1 and 13. The voyages visit seven captivating ports: Naples and Venice (two-day call), Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Sicily; Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; and Livorno, Italy. During these cruises, guests can visit Capri, Taormina, Monte Carlo, Florence and Pisa, home to a variety of centuries-old historical landmarks and some of the world’s most celebrated museums. The two-day call in Venice offers guests an opportunity to sample the city’s excellent restaurants, view stunning architecture, and visit magnificent museums and cathedrals.
Part of Carnival’s 110,000-ton Conquest-class, Carnival Freedom will feature 22 lounges and bars, four swimming pools, a 13,300-square-foot health club, 100 percent “bow-to-stern” wireless Internet access, cell phone service, and Carnival’s Seaside Theatre, a 270-square-foot LED screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming. The ship will also house two two-deck-high main dining rooms, a 1,400-seat casual poolside eatery with a 24-hour pizzeria, and an elegant reservations-only supper club offering U.S.D.A. prime steaks and other gourmet cuisine. Also featured will be “Camp Carnival” and “Club O2,” with expansive facilities and supervised activities for children and teens, respectively. Accommodations include a wide selection of spacious staterooms including suites and staterooms with private balconies offering spectacular ocean views. All staterooms will include the “Carnival Comfort Bed” sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.
Carnival is currently accepting reservations for Carnival Freedom’s 2008 Europe departures. Prices for the 12-day voyages begin at $1,199 per person, based on double occupancy. Special rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, as well as round-trip air supplements from a variety of North American gateways and pre- and post-cruise land packages in Rome, are also available.
For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit www.carnival.com.
‘Carnival Freedom’ To Operate Two Transatlantic Crossings In 2008
A transatlantic crossing is a dream vacation for many people, combining the romance and allure of the sea with an array of fascinating ports of call. Carnival Cruise Lines makes transatlantic crossings both affordable and convenient and in 2008 will offer consumer two distinctly different choices to enjoy this time-honored maritime tradition. The 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom will operate a 14-day crossing departing Miami April 26, 2008 and a 16-day voyage departing Rome (Civitavecchia) November 6, 2008.
Currently in the final stages of construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, Carnival Freedom is slated to debut in Europe March 5, 2007, and will also operate Carnival’s European schedule in 2008.
14-Day Transatlantic Crossing in April 2008
Carnival Freedom will operate a 14-day transatlantic crossing departing Miami April 26 and arriving Rome (Civitavecchia) May 10, 2008. The voyage offers a diversity of magnificent ports of call, with extended visits to four distinctly different destinations. Featured on the itinerary are daylong calls at St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Malaga, Spain; and Livorno, Italy. The voyage will serve to position Carnival Freedom for its previously announced 2008 European cruise season operating May – October.
16-Day Transatlantic Crossing in November 2008
Following its 2008 European cruise schedule, Carnival Freedom will operate a 16-day transatlantic crossing departing Rome (Civitavecchia) November 6 and arriving Fort Lauderdale, Fla., November 22, 2008. During this cruise, guests will have an opportunity to explore a variety of exciting destinations, each offering interesting cultures and historical attractions and landmarks. Five ports are featured on this crossing – Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Carnival’s first call at this scenic destination; and St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles.
Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Freedom’s 14- and 16-day transatlantic crossing taking place in 2008. Prices for the 14-day crossing departing April 26, 2008, begin at $699 per person while the 16-day transatlantic crossing departing November 6, 2008 starts at $849 per person. Special rates for third and fourth guests staying in the same stateroom, along with round-trip air supplements, are also available.
For additional information and reservations, call 1-800-327-9501 (individual) or 1-800-327-5782 (groups) or visit the line's travel agent Internet portal, www.bookccl.com .
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity’s ‘Millennium’ To Host Line’s 4th Annual Savor The Caribbean Series
Celebrity Cruises is serving up another sizzling Savor the Caribbean series featuring some of the nation’s hottest chefs. Celebrity’s fourth annual series will take place on Millennium’s seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailings from January 7 through March 4, 2007, with a host of celebrated chefs and restaurateurs.
Allen Susser, renowned creator of “Palm Tree Cuisine,” will be the featured chef on Millennium’s January 7 itinerary.
Heating up the January 14 cruise will be Cindy Hutson, owner of Ortanique. Hutson is best known for her Cuisine of the Sun, combining South American, Asian, Caribbean and American fusion influences.
Starring on Millennium’s January 21 itinerary will be the Caribbean Cowboy, Chef Johnny Vinczencz. Known in Florida for his Caribbean-influenced cuisine, Vinczencz is adding a second “Johnny V” restaurant on South Beach, in addition to his Ft. Lauderdale location.
Robert Trevino will be sizzling on Millennium’s cruise setting sail on February 18. Mixing his Mexican heritage, classic training and passion for Puerto Rican cooking, Trevino has helped shape “Nuevo Latino” cuisine. He has appeared on shows including Rachel Ray’s $40 A Day, and even challenged Mario Batali on Food Network’s Iron Chef America.
Edgar Leal, who will be steaming up Millennium’s February 25 cruise, developed his culinary style in his native Venezuela, where he learned to combine the classic and modern culinary influences of Latin America to create his signature Pan-American culinary style. His restaurant, “Cacao,” was recently named one of the best new restaurants in Miami by the Miami Herald.
Those sailing on March 4 will enjoy the company of two star chefs, Carmen Gonzalez and Norman Van Aken. Gonzalez, chef and owner of Carmen the Restaurant, is inspired by seafood and the traditional fare of her native Puerto Rico. Gonzalez infuses traditional Pan-Latino ingredients with modern elegance and imagination, using bold flavors with a deft hand.
World-renowned chef and culinary innovator, Norman Van Aken, is the owner of three award-winning restaurants. Van Aken is one of the only chefs in America to have won the coveted James Beard Award and Food Arts’ Silver Spoon award for lifetime achievement.
Guests onboard Millennium will have the rare opportunity to participate in a hands-on cooking class with the featured chef on each Savor the Caribbean cruise. Two classes will be offered per cruise with a class size limited to eight. The cooking class, two hours long, will have an extra charge of $59 per person. Guests also may participate in a Bacardi-sponsored class that teaches them to make perfect mojitos, complete with souvenir muddler and glass.
Extending guests culinary education on land, Celebrity will feature a host of culinary-inspired shore excursions. For example, in San Juan, guests can enjoy a private cooking demonstration with Chef Robert Trevino at his Parrot Club. The luncheon menu includes a taste of traditional Puerto Rican fare including The Parrot Club’s famous parrot passions rum drink.
In St. Thomas, guests can be a part of an intimate cooking demonstration hosted by three-time Best Chef on St. Thomas winner Brian Katz at his new restaurant, Wikked. Chef Katz will demonstrate and serve recipes such as his three-rum-flamed shrimp with fried cassava, malt-marinated chicken with plantain mofongo and Grand Marnier-macerated mangoes with white chocolate cake and caramelized cashews.
Shore excursions and cooking classes can be purchased online up to ten days prior to sailing, as well as onboard, if space remains available.
Departing Fort Lauderdale on Saturdays, Millennium will call on Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.
Website: www.celebritycruises.com
Costa Cruises
‘Costa Mediterranea’ Completes Dry-Dock In Bahamas
The Costa Mediterranea has completed scheduled maintenance during a 10-day dry dock in the Bahamas. This marks the first time Costa has berthed one of its ships for a dry-dock in the Caribbean. From December 3-12, the Costa Mediterranea underwent scheduled maintenance operations at the Grand Bahamas Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas. These scheduled maintenance operations are carried out every two years on all Costa ships.
The work on the 85,000-ton Costa Mediterranea involved both the hull, engine and hotel sections. In the hull section, the main maintenance operations focused on careening, including hull cleaning and repainting. Maintenance on the engine section included the disassembly of the pod units comprising the ship's electric diesel propulsion system. For the Hotel section, the carpeting, drapes, fabrics and other materials were replaced in the public areas and in cabins. The total cost of these operations amounted to approximately 3.5 million euros.
n. From December 16 to April 8, the Costa Mediterranea will offer two different alternating itineraries in the Western and Eastern Caribbean with departures from Miami through December 30 and Fort Lauderdale beginning January 7, 2007.
In addition to the Costa Mediterranea, the Costa Magica and the Costa Atlantica will also operate in the Caribbean during the 2006-2007 winter season. Both ships will offer seven-day cruises, with departures from Fort Lauderdale (Costa Magica) and from Guadeloupe (Costa Atlantica). The Costa Atlantica cruises are marketed exclusively to European and Canadian passengers. All three ships will offer at least one new itinerary that will include new and exclusive destinations such as:
-- St. Bart's, which is included in the Costa Atlantica’s New Year's itinerary
-- The Roatán Islands in Honduras, which feature the world's second largest coral reef and is included in the Costa Mediterranea’s Western Caribbean itinerary and in the Costa Magica's New Year’s cruise
-- Grand Turk, where the Costa Magica will dock at the new Carnival Cruise Terminal
-- Belize City, which is included in the Costa Magica’s New Year’s itinerary.
For reservations or more information, contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com .
New Winter Mediterranean Sailings Begins For Costa Concordia
Guests can experience the best of the Mediterranean and “Cruising Italian Style” aboard the stunning new Costa Concordia as she sails her inaugural winter season throughout the region. Departing on 10- and 11-night cruises to, Greece, Egypt, Turkey and Cyprus through April 4, 2007, travelers will visit exciting ports of call including Olympia, Athens, Rhodes, Alexandria and Izmir.
While visiting Athens, guests will have the opportunity to go on a guided tour of the new “Myths and Archetypes in the Sea of Knowledge,” exhibition at the Greek capital’s Byzantine and Christian Museum. The exhibition is promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the support of Costa and the Regional Administrations of Campania and Sicily. It features more than 160 works by leading Italian figures in modern and contemporary art, which have been lent by Italy’s most prestigious museums and galleries. Among the artworks are two bronze sculptures by Marcello Mascherini, “Fauno disteso” (1958) and “Danzatrice con Colombe” (1959), which belong to Costa’s private collection and which were originally featured aboard Costa’s former ships, the Federico C and the Franca C.
Among the ports called on for the first time by the Costa Concordia on this new winter itinerary include Izmir, the Turkish city where Costa’s Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi was made an honorary citizen in 2004. Costa has doubled its schedule there, with a total of 52 calls compared to 26 in 2005. Further growth is forecasted in 2007, when Izmir will become a regular port of call on 7seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean on the Costa Serena, the sister ship of the Costa Concordia. She is currently under construction in Genoa and scheduled to be inaugurated in May 2007.
Also sailing the Mediterranean this winter are the Costa Victoria and Costa Europa, which combined feature a total of 43 cruises. The Costa Victoria will depart from Savona on ten-night cruises to the Canary Islands. The Costa Europa will also use Savona as her homeport with two different routes, one to Egypt and the other to the Canary Islands. These routes, combined with Costa Concordia routes, confirm Costa’s leadership in offering the most year-round Mediterranean cruises. All of Costa’s ships sailing the Mediterranean in the winter are equipped with either retractable magrodomes or indoor pools, making poolside activities enjoyable at all times for guests.
Costa’s newest flagship, the Costa Concordia, joined the Italian cruise line’s fleet in July of 2006. At 112,000 tons with a double occupancy of 3,780, she is the largest cruise ship in Costa’s growing fleet and the largest ship ever built for an Italian company. The ship features the Samsara Spa, the largest spa at sea with more than 20,000 square feet of wellness and relaxation space with breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean. Specially created for Costa, the spa concept also features 67 exclusive accommodations with direct access to the spa. Additional features on the ship include a Grand Prix race car driving simulator and two pools with retractable magrodomes.
For reservations or more information, contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
Over half of the ships in Costa’s fleet were awarded Four Star ratings in Douglas Ward’s 2007 edition of the Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2007. The Costa ships that earned the rating in the large-ship category include the new Costa Concordia, sister ships Costa Magica and Costa Fortuna, sister ships Costa Mediterranea and Costa Atlantica, and the Costa Victoria.
Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises' 2007 Europe Collection Showcases 29 Destination-Rich Itineraries
From the ancient cities along the Aegean and Adriatic seas to the polar ice caps of the North Cape, Crystal Cruises will offer 29 destination-rich itineraries throughout Europe in 2007. Crystal's 2007 Europe Collection features a vast selection of seven- to 14-day cruises with more overnight stays in the world's grandest destinations; maiden calls to Sochi, Russia and Eidfjord, Norway's second largest fjord; the line's first cruises to and from Toulon, France; and, itineraries crafted around the Tall Ships regatta in Stockholm and the Military Tattoo in Edinburgh. Complementing the majority of itineraries are once-in-a-lifetime exclusive experiences such as the chance to fly a MiG fighter jet over Moscow, private cooking lessons at Le Moulin de Mougins, hot air ballooning over Bordeaux or an Iceland adventure by horseback.
In southern Europe from spring through fall, 22 itineraries explore the romance and history of the Mediterranean from the west—Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands, France, Monaco; to the east—Italy, Greece, Croatia, Turkey and Egypt; and on up into the Black Sea. In summer months, travelers will discover the majesty of Northern Europe on seven enriching itineraries through the British Isles, the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic and even the Arctic Circle.
Highlights of Crystal Serenity's Mediterranean season include:
-- Three seven-day cruise options in May and June are offered in addition to 12-day itineraries.
-- For the first time, some of Crystal's Mediterranean cruises will begin
or end in Toulon, France; cruises also depart from Venice, Lisbon,
Athens, Monte Carlo, Rome, Istanbul and London.
-- All itineraries offer at least one overnight port call or late night stay in cities such as Istanbul, Monte Carlo, Venice, Sorrento, Cannes, Odessa, Alexandria, Athens and Lisbon.
Highlights of Crystal Symphony's Northern Europe and Baltic season include:
-- Two nights, three days in St. Petersburg on several Baltic itineraries.
-- Overnights in Stockholm, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Bordeaux and Edinburgh.
-- A Tall Ships theme cruise adds insights on the world's largest sailing event, hosted by Stockholm in 2007.
-- A 14-day North Cape itinerary from Copenhagen to Stockholm crosses the
Arctic Circle en route to Spitsbergen.
-- Lesser known yet fascinating ports of Tallinn, Estonia and Arhus, Denmark.
or those seeking to venture farther inland, Crystal's European season features three diverse Extended Land Programs, offered pre- or post-cruise on selected itineraries:
-- A journey into the world of ancient castles, palaces and monuments in
Prague & Budapest for five-nights on Mediterranean voyages from Rome.
-- Five nights in Vienna & Salzburg showcase Austria's musical history on
Mediterranean cruises from Venice.
-- Guests also have the opportunity to experience the spectacular scenery
of Europe aboard the Orient-Express pre- and post-cruise depending on
itinerary.
The onboard travel experience is enhanced with the line's renowned Crystal Visions(R) Enrichment Program including destination-specific lectures by the Smithsonian Institution, a PGA-hosted Golf Cruise, guest speakers from the Sotheby's Institute, and Crystal's acclaimed Wine & Food Festival offered on several European itineraries. Guests will also enjoy the progressive programming offered in conjunction with the line's Creative Learning Institute, providing Berlitz language lessons and Yamaha keyboard classes.
Fares for the Mediterranean cruises start at $2,780. Baltic fares start at $3,145. Fares are based on per person, double occupancy accommodations.
For additional information, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.
easyCruise
Refurbished 'easyCruiseOne' Sets Sail With New Caribbean Itinerary
With an entirely new Caribbean itinerary, easyCruiseOne will be calling on St. Barths, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Antigua, Nevis, and St. Maarten. In addition to the new ports of call, easyCruise also introduces exciting trip promotions, a new livery, and interior upgrades including windows for almost all the cabins on board.
easyCruiseOne sails in the Caribbean from December 8, 2006 to April 12, 2007 and reservations can now be booked at www.easycruise.com. The ship departs Philipsburg, St. Maarten each Friday, and calls at St. Barths (Saturday) and Anguilla (Sunday). It pays a return call to St. Maarten on Monday, and then visits St. Kitts (Tuesday), Antigua (Wednesday), and Nevis (Thursday). Travelers can begin their cruise arriving in St. Maarten on Friday or Monday, or in Antigua on Wednesday, with international airports on both islands.
With easy flight access through St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana airport (SMX), travelers can now book a seven-night easyCruise Caribbean vacation, starting at $132 per person. The cost is based on double occupancy in an outside cabin with a window. Meals and other amenities are extra. To utilize this promotion, enter the code carib73 when booking on the www.easyCruise.com homepage, or by calling easyCruise at 1-650-385-0563 and mentioning the code carib73.
easyCruiseOne has recently undergone a transformation with a renovation of the livery to graphite grey with orange trim, a new café, bar and restaurant, and the addition of windows to sixty cabins.
Unlike any other cruise, easyCruise allows passengers the freedom to explore each destination at their leisure. Sailing each morning, easyCruise arrives in a new port by late morning allowing passengers to enjoy the day and nightlife in some of the Caribbean’s best destinations. In addition, passengers can join the cruise where and when they want, subject to a two-night minimum, with a 14-night maximum stay.
MSC Cruises
Give the Gift of an MSC Cruises Experience With Holiday Gift Rates
When you book a 2007 Deep Caribbean or Panama sailing on MSC Lirica or MSC Opera with special Holiday Gift rates and bonus upgrades, you are sure to be the star of the season. Not only will you be giving a cruise experience with an Italian flavor to some of the Caribbean's most beautiful locales, but you will also be saving as much as 65 percent off retail rates. Plus, bonus upgrades of up to three categories add as much as $150 to the value of the gift.
Holiday Gift prices start at just $695 per person, double occupancy (plus government fees and taxes).
Special Holiday Gift rates are available on select 11-night sailings of MSC Lirica and MSC Opera roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale January 9-April 18, 2007 and must be booked by December 31, 2006. Holiday Gift rates include upgrades of inside to outside staterooms and are not valid for balcony or suite staterooms. Full nonrefundable payment is due within 24 hours of booking. The offer may not be combined with any other discount or promotion. Restrictions apply.
For more information about MSC Cruises, visit www.msccruises.com.
Theme Sailings Complement Cruise Line’s Melodious Character
MSC Cruises is celebrating music with several special themed sailings:
-- Big Band Sounds—MSC Cruises celebrates music during the 2006-07 Caribbean season with Big Band theme cruises onboard MSC Opera’s 11-night roundtrip cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale January 14, February 5, and 27, and March 21.
Enjoy the classics of the Big Bands of the ‘40s as well as Dixieland, rhythm and blues, jazz and contemporary tunes. Joining the musical celebration are such talents as emcee and original New York City “Morning Mayor” Herb Oscar Anderson, as well as Sinatra-styled vocalist Rob Zappulla, and female vocalists Lorri Hafer (“I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing”) and Michele Anastasio (“Tribute to Patsy Cline”). In addition to performances throughout the sailing, guests will be able to meet the performers as they travel to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Costa Maya, Puerto Limon, Cristobal, Santa Marta, Curacao and Samana (where guests can opt for an excursion to the line’s private paradise at Cayo Levantado).
-- Dance Cruises—MSC Cruises features two itineraries that are ideal for dancing under the stars while sailing to the birthplace of passionate dances – South America. Take to the dance floor to learn from some of the best dance teachers and compete in dance contests on two of MSC Sinfonia’s repositioning cruises, departing November 26, 2007 (18 nights) from Genoa to Buenos Aires.
Highly qualified dance instructors will lead lessons in Samba, Bolero, Tango, Salsa, Country, Lambada, Mambo, Merengue, Rumba, Cha Cha, Jazz and more. Guests of all ages will be swirling around the dance floor to their favorite music before they know it!
-- Classical Cruises—Classical music takes center stage on MSC Melody’s November18, 2007 21-night sailing from Genoa to Durban. The itinerary features afternoon interludes, evening concerts, lectures on the history of classical music and new ways to appreciate and understand the unique and universal language that is music.
For more information about MSC Cruises and its music theme cruises, visit www.msccruises.com or a local travel agent.
Norwegian Coastal Voyages
Air-Inclusive Getaway To Norway At $699
An air-inclusive, four-day Norway Winter Wonderland getaway at $699 per person, single or double occupancy, has been introduced by Norwegian Coastal Voyage for travelers with limited time to explore the country's spectacular fjord-indented coast. The winter break on a Norwegian Coastal Voyage ship sailing between Bergen, a charming Hanseatic port, and Trondheim, the country's first capital, includes round-trip SAS flights from New York, local flights in Norway, leisure time in historic Bergen, two nights and breakfast daily aboard ship, port charges, airport transfers and air taxes. Daily departures are scheduled through March 31, 2007 except December 15-24.
The 11-ship fleet sails from Bergen northward in sheltered waters along the mountainous coast and by scores of islands to the Art Nouveau town of Alesund; Molde, with splendid views of the snow-capped Romsdal Alps, Kristiansund, set on three islands, and Trondheim, home of Norway's largest medieval cathedral. In the Arctic twilight the lights of towns, villages and lighthouses glow against snow-clad landscapes. Average winter temperatures in Bergen and Trondheim, which are warmed by the Gulf Stream, are between 27° and 40°.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage operates daily year-round, carrying local and international passengers to 34 ports ranging from remote fishing villages to bustling cities. The 164- to 674-berth ships are floating galleries of contemporary Norwegian art and have panoramic lounges, a dining room, 24-hour café, bar and a shop. Many have an Internet café, Jacuzzis, saunas and a fitness room.
A $25 surcharge applies each way to weekend flights; add-on airfares are available from other U.S. cities. The trip can be extended by adding hotel stays, including breakfast, at the Bergen Strand Hotel at $99 per person, double, per night; the Trondheim SAS Royal Garden at $129; and Oslo's Hotel Royal Christiana, with round-trip airport transfers, at $235.
Information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from Norwegian Coastal Voyage Inc., (800) 323-7436 or (212) 319-1300; fax (212) 319-1390; for brochures (800) 666-2374, 24 hours a day; www.norwegiancoastalvoyage.us.
Norwegian Cruise Line
NCL Corp. Announces Longer Inter-Island Itinerary for Hawaii in 2007-08
NCL Corporation has announced that beginning in September 2007 it will move Pride of Aloha to ten- and 11-day cruises from Honolulu sailing both inter-island itineraries mixed with Hawai'i cruises calling into Fanning Island in Kiribati, NCL’s Pacific Island hideaway just north of the Equator.
Norwegian Sun will be redeployed to Miami to sail seven-day Western Caribbean cruises beginning in October 2007 through mid-April 2008. Norwegian Sun’s seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary features calls into Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Costa Maya, Mexico; and a call into Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island.
The ship will join Norwegian Pearl sailing nine- and five-day Southern and Western Caribbean cruises and Norwegian Jewel sailing seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries, offering a full complement of cruises to the most popular Caribbean destinations. "We are now receiving very good feedback from our guests on the seven-day inter-island cruise, and we are increasingly hearing requests for a longer version of this destination-rich inter-island cruise including one or two days at sea," said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation. "With these new 10- and 11-day itineraries, we can deliver expanded Hawaii itineraries to our guests that include longer stays on the four main islands of Hawaii, relaxing days at sea and spectacular coastal cruising."
Pride of Aloha begins her new deployment in September 2007. The 10-day Hawaii only cruise features an overnight in Honolulu ensuring guests can enjoy all the wonderful sights in Oah'u; an overnight in Kauai; three days in Maui including a overnight in Kahului with a call into Lahaina; and calls into Hilo and Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Highlights also include a night time sail by the K?lauea Volcano and a day at sea cruising by the N? Pali coast line and cruising the north coast of Molokai.
The 11-day Hawaii only cruises feature the same port of calls as the 10-day but include two days at sea with guests enjoying a sail by the N? Pali coast line, a night time sail by the K?lauea Volcano and sailing the north coast of Molokai and the north coast of Oahu.
The 11-day Hawaii/Fanning Island itineraries include an overnight in Kauai featuring a sail by the N? Pali coast line at sunset; calls into Hilo and Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii; a call into Kahului, Maui and a call into Fanning Island.
Located 1,000 miles south of Hawaii, Fanning Island, or Tabuaeran as it is know by the locals (from the Kiribati word meaning 'heavenly footprint') is an exotic South Pacific paradise. Guests enjoy a unique adventure, rarely available to modern travelers. Sea birds are plentiful, sea life is hugely diverse and snorkelers and divers marvel at the stunning coral reefs. Most notably though, the island is inhabited, and guests are welcomed by the 1,300 friendly Micronesian islanders, which is a highlight of the trip for many passengers. The Hawaii/Fanning Island cruises are scheduled for every fourth Pride of Aloha cruise.
Pride of America and Pride of Hawaii continue their popular seven-day inter-island cruises calling on all four main islands featuring 100 hours in port with overnights in Kauai and Maui.
Pride of America features Saturday departures from Honolulu with calls into Hilo, Hawaii; an overnight in Kahului; Maui; Kona, Hawaii; and an overnight in N?wiliwili,
The newest addition to the NCL America fleet, Pride of Hawaii, began her seven-day inter-island cruises from Honolulu on June 5, 2006. She offers Monday departures calling on Hilo, Hawaii; an overnight in Kahului; Maui; Kona; Hawaii; and an overnight in N?wiliwili, Kauai.
Pride of Aloha and Norwegian Sun’s new cruises go on sale December 27. Detailed itineraries will also be available on www.ncl.com on December 27.
For further information, visit www.ncl.com
P&O Cruises/UK
P&O Cruises Launches Its Worldwide Winter Holidays 2007/08 Brochure
The brochure features holidays of between 16 and 59 nights in duration, encompassing some of the world’s most iconic destinations. Travelers can tailor their holiday to include one or three night pre- or post-cruise city stays in some of the world’s most vibrant cities, including Sydney, San Francisco, Singapore, Rio de Janeiro and Cape Town.
Sample itineraries in the brochure are:
-- San Francisco to Auckland on Aurora from £2,474. 16 nights January 26 to February 12, 2008. Calling at Honolulu, Pago Pago, Nuku’Alofa, Auckland.
-- Dubai to Shanghai on Oriana from £3,134. 23 nights January 23 to February 15, 2008. Calling at Mumbai, Cochin, Colombo, Phuket, Penang, Singapore, Kemaman, Vung Tau, Hong Kong, Shanghai.
-- Rio de Janeiro to Lima on Artemis from £4,481. 30 nights January 15 to February 14, 2008. Calling at Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley, cruise by Half Moon Island – Antarctica, cruise by Hope Bay – Antarctica, cruise by Deception Island – South Shetland Islands, cruise around Cape Horn, Ushuaia, transit Beagle Channel, Punta Arenas, transit Straits of Magellan, cruise by Amalia Glacier, cruise by PIO X Glacier, Puerto Montt, Santiago (from Valpariso), Coquimbo, Arica (for Machu Picchu), Lima (from Callao).
All prices given are per person and based on two adults sharing a twin
cabin inclusive of a maximum 45 percent. Pricebreaker early booking discount. There
are a limited number of cabins set aside to be sold with the maximum Pricebreakers discount. Once these cabins have been sold the price may revert either to a higher Pricebreakers discounted fare or to the full brochure fare. Prices are inclusive of accommodation, all main meals, entertainment and facilities as detailed in the brochure. Flights are included where relevant and all transfers are included. For more information or to request a copy of the brochure call P&O Cruises at 0845 3 584 444 in the UK or visit your travel agent. Website: www.pocruises.co.uk
Peter Deilmann Cruises
Deilmann Cruises Offers Free Air & Shore Excursions On 2007 Baltic Sea Voyages
Peter Deilmann Cruises is offering Americans three Baltic Sea cruises next summer on the five-star MS Deutschland with free air and free shore excursions. The 11-to-14-night voyages in May and June 2007 sail to Gothenberg, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Gdansk, Tallin (Estonia) and Riga (Latvia). Passengers can fly free roundtrip from New York and 16 U.S. cities and save up to $600 in shore excursions.
Free airport-ship transfers are among the added attractions to these sailings that depart from Hamburg and Travemunde, Germany. Air supplements cost just $110 from 19 Midwest cities and $150 from 15 cities in the West. For passengers who arrange their own air, there is a $750 reduction from the cruise fare.
An extra inducement for U.S. travelers to these Grand Hotel Voyages is the 100 PERCENT free pre-arranged packages of English-language shore excursions. Prices on these cruises start at $4,571 per person twin for the 11-night sailing, including roundtrip air transportation.
-- the first Baltic voyage, May 20-June 1, 2007, is 12 nights long and departs from Hamburg. The cruise sails through the Canal Passage to the North Sea and Gothenburg, Sweden’s largest port, then to Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, the Polish ports of Baltiysk and Gdansk and the historic Polish city of Stettin. Overnight stays are in Gothenburg, St. Petersburg and Gdansk.
-- The 11-night cruise, June 14-25, also overnights in St. Petersburg and visits Stockholm, the Finnish Island of Aland, the capitals of Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga and the lovely old city of Gdansk.
-- The third Baltic cruise, June 25-July 5, 2007, spends two nights in St. Petersburg, and one in Stockholm. Riga, Helsinki and Copenhagen are other port calls on the 14-night cruise, which ends in the famous German sailing city of Kiel.
A classic ocean liner, launched in 1998 and meticulously refurbished every year, the nine-deck ship is richly decorated in art nouveau and art deco styles reminiscent of earlier days of ocean travel. The ship’s three beautifully designed restaurants and outdoor dining terrace provide formal and informal settings for dining, while intimate lounges and cafes with music offer before and after dining entertainment. The high level of service adds to passengers’ comfort with a 2-to-1 ratio of passengers to crew. The Deutschland’s 286 staterooms are well appointed with ample storage space, color TV, min-bars, bathrobes and slippers; bathrooms offer quality toiletries and hairdryers. Passengers are greeted on arrival with champagne and a gift tote bag. Outdoor and indoor swimming pools, three sun decks, open-air promenade deck, an elegant theater for film screenings and lectures, fitness center, sauna, Turkish bath, grand two-level ballroom with dancing and international revue shows, shopping boutique, beauty salon and infirmary are among other features of the ship. The ship’s expanded Wellness Spa offers Thalasso Therapy, Cleopatra Bath, a broad range of massage therapy and other health and beauty treatments. There are daily classes in Pilates, Nordic walking and aqua jogging, make-up and fitness consulting sessions.
Details on the sailings and the Grand Hotel Voyages brochures are available from travel agencies and Peter Deilmann Cruises at 1-800-348-8287 or by e-mail at pdcmail@deilmann-cruises.com. The cruises can also be viewed and downloaded online at www.deilmann-cruises.com.
Princess Cruises/Australia
Seven Nights in the Caribbean from A$919
Princess Cruises has made the warm waters and tropical beaches of the Caribbean even more appealing to Australians with the release of seven-night voyages to the world’s most popular cruise destination from just A$919 per person.*
Dream destinations in Princess Cruises’ Caribbean program include the turquoise waters, lush rainforests and white-sand beaches of the Bahamas, US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico as well as Princess Cruises’ own private beach resort, Princess Cays.
The 2007-08 Caribbean cruise season for Princess Cruises will see the debut of Princess Cruises’ latest megaliner, the 3100-passenger Emerald Princess. Like her twin sisters, Caribbean Princess and Crown Princess, the 116,000-ton Emerald Princess will offer features perfect for island cruising such as Movies Under the Stars on giant poolside screens, a Caribbean-themed restaurant and hundreds of staterooms with their own private balconies.
Princess Cruises has launched a range of fly-cruise deals available between May 2007 and May 2008 including:
-- Seven-night round-trip eastern Caribbean cruises aboard Caribbean Princess from Fort Lauderdale to St Maarten, St Thomas and Princess Cays from A$919 per person*, cruise only. Including return flights from Australia, the cruise is available from A$3569 per person from Sydney, A$3649 per person from Brisbane and Melbourne, A$3949 per person from Adelaide and A$4119 per person from Perth.
-- Ten-night round-trip southern Caribbean cruises aboard Emerald Princess from Fort Lauderdale to Aruba, Bonaire, Grenada, Dominica, St Thomas and Princess Cays from A$1349 per person*, cruise only. Including return flights from Australia, the cruise is available from A$3999 per person from Sydney, A$4079 per person from Brisbane and Melbourne, A$4379 per person from Adelaide and A$4549 per person from Perth.
-- Princess Cruises is also offering seven-night cruises from Los Angeles and San Diego to the Mexican Riviera from A$829 per person*, cruise only, with flight packages available.
For details, see a travel agent, phone 13 2488 or visit www.princess.com.au
*Fares are cruise only, per person, in complete twin stateroom and include all main meals, onboard accommodation, entertainment and all taxes and charges (which are subject to change). Subject to availability. conditions apply. To be read in conjunction with passage and booking conditions which passengers will be bound by.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Announces 2008 Antarctica Itineraries
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has unveiled two Antarctica itineraries for 2008, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the stark beauty and abundant wildlife of the White Continent amid the comfort of the world's top-rated expedition cruise ship, Explorer II. Regent Seven Seas will offer guests two round-trip itineraries in 2008, departing from the world's southernmost city of Ushuaia (Argentina) and sailing the Falkland Islands, Drake Passage and Antarctic Peninsula. A new, extended 14-night itinerary also includes South Georgia Island.
Setting sail on January 21, 2008 (11 nights) and February 1, 2008 (14 nights), both cruises begin with calls to the wildlife-rich shores of the Falkland Islands and the quaint village of Port Stanley, with its unique architecture, charming pubs and teahouses. The Explorer II then cruises the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula (with opportunities for disembarkation and exploration as weather permits) and then onward through Drake Passage. Before returning to Ushuaia, she'll also sail along Cape Horn, located at the confluence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. New for 2008, the extended 14-night cruise also includes a call at South Georgia, featuring large colonies of king penguins, fur and elephant seals.
January and February are peak summer months in Antarctica, bringing milder temperatures, longer days and unrivaled wildlife viewing: penguin chicks (and their parents, who gather by the tens of thousands to tend to them), seal pups and parents, whales, blooming snow algae, albatross and other seabirds, and spectacular glaciers and icebergs. Explorer II's team of naturalists, historians, marine biologists, geologists, and ornithologists will add immeasurably to guests' adventures in these pristine realms.
Though a range of shore excursions can accommodate more adventurous travelers, the state-of-the-art Explorer II provide guests a way to experience the beauty of Antarctica in stylish comfort, and its small size and maneuverability brings guests face-to-face with each of the sites. Explorer II features a polished brass and wood interior with all ocean-view suites and staterooms, two open-seating restaurants, a full-service health club and a salon. Although the ship is designed to accommodate up to 394 passengers, Regent limits these cruises to 198 guests for maximum comfort.
Beneath its stylish exterior, the Explorer II features a strong steel foundation, including an ice-strengthened hull, bow and stern thrusters to make her extraordinarily maneuverable, and stabilizers to ensure a safe, smooth passage. Regent's expedition team of highly-trained naturalists and biologists, along with the high crew-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1.5, ensures the ultimate relaxing and enriching voyage.
Per person prices for Regent's Antarctica cruises start from $9,395 for the 11-night voyage and $11,494 for the 14-night voyage, including up to 25 percent Early Booking Savings coupled with Free Coach Air from our 86 gateways—a value of up to $2049 per person. Cruise-only guests will receive $1200 credit. Air scheduling, routing, and carrier for free air offer are at Regent Seven Seas' sole discretion.
Both programs include a one-night pre-cruise stay in Santiago (Chile); round-trip charter flights from Santiago to Ushuaia; a city tour and Patagonian lunch on day of embarkation in Ushuaia; and a complimentary backpack and parka. As with all Regent Seven Seas cruises, fares include all shipboard gratuities; complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits served throughout the ship; and a refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer and bottled water replenished daily in higher stateroom categories.
Through The Regent Travel ConciergeSM, guests may select from a variety of exciting pre- and post-cruise land adventures, from horseback riding in Ushuaia to a guided walking tour of the city's Tierra del Fuego National Park, including a trek across the border to Chile. Air scheduling, routing, and carrier for free air offer is at Regent Seven For further information, contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334. For brochures, call toll-free (866) 284-4079; for reservation information call toll-free (800) 285-1835; or visit: www.TheRegentExperience.com.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils 2008 World Cruise
Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will embark on the longest and most extensive voyage in its history with the 115-night 2008 World Cruise—the line's eighth such cruise. Guests will travel in stylish luxury aboard the 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Voyager as she circumnavigates the globe, visiting 51 ports in 26 countries throughout the South Pacific, Orient and Arabia, as well as the Mediterranean and Bermuda. New for 2008, the voyage commences in beautiful San Francisco. "With an itinerary designed through direct feedback from top travel agents and customers themselves,” said Regent President Mark Conroy. “The 2008 World Cruise presents an ultimate travel fantasy - our largest ever selection of ports spanning five continents, 11 overnights, special on-board entertainment and the sumptuous amenities of a six-star luxury vessel."
The 2008 World Cruise will depart on January 6, 2008 from San Francisco with seven individual segments, each offering an array of exclusive Concierge Collection land adventures, as well as special onboard lecture programs and activities. Segments include:
-- San Francisco to New Zealand (January 6-30) - Visit the Hawaiian ports of Hilo, Maui and Honolulu before crossing the Equator to French Polynesia for calls in Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti as well as the Cook Islands. Then enjoy five luxurious days at open sea before visiting the pristine subtropical New Zealand port Bay of Islands and cosmopolitan Auckland.
-- New Zealand to Sydney (January 30-February 9) - Cruise some of New Zealand's most picturesque ports including Tauranga, art deco Napier, and the stunning capital city of Wellington. Then depart for Tasmania, Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, voted by Travel + Leisure readers as the World's Best City for 11 years straight as part of the "World's Best" readers survey issue.
-- Sydney to Shanghai (February 9-29) - Sail the East Coast of Australia with stops in Hayman Island and Cairns, before sailing the Coral and Solomon Seas for the port of Madang in Papua New Guinea. Then cross the Equator for Saipan, Osaka and Kagoshima in Japan and bustling Shanghai, China.
-- Shanghai to Singapore (February 29-March 13) - Continue on to the exotic Asian ports of Hong Kong, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, where the teeming economic center meets the timeless traditions of an ancient culture. Visit Bangkok and Ko Samui, Thailand before ending in Singapore, known for its outstanding hotels and world-class shopping.
-- Singapore to Mumbai, India (March 13-27) - Visit the architecturally diverse colonial town of Georgetown, Penang, then travel to Yangon, Myanmar (formerly Rangoon, Burma) for two overnights in port. This less-visited destination holds cultural charm, friendly and laid back residents, and the magnificent golden Shwedagon Pagoda, viewed from most parts of the city. The voyage continues to Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Mumbai (formerly Bombay), India.
-- Mumbai to Piraeus (for Athens), Greece (March 27-April 13) - Voyage across the Arabian Sea for the glistening beaches and science-fiction skyscrapers of Dubai and the sparkling white capital city of Oman. Then cross the Red Sea to Jordan and three ancient Egyptian ports before transiting the Suez Canal and entering the Mediterranean for Rhodes, Greece and Turkey, ending in Athens.
-- Athens to Ft. Lauderdale (April 13-30) - Walk the ancient ruins of Athens and Olympia before traveling to Malta, Tunisia and Malaga (Spain) and Madeira. Then cross the Atlantic Ocean on a relaxing six-day voyage at sea, with a stopover in Bermuda for a round of golf or shopping before ending in Ft. Lauderdale.
Seven Seas Voyager gives guests additional time in several ports with 11 overnight stays including Tahiti, Sydney, Osaka, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Min City, Mumbai and Dubai.
For a dramatic beginning to the adventure, guests may combine the World Cruise with a 16-night Panama Canal cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to San Francisco to create a 131-night cruise (December 21, 2007 - January 6, 2008). Experience the tropical treasures of Grand Cayman, Colombia and Panama Canal; the pristine beauty of Costa Rica; and five Mexican hot spots before moving north to Los Angeles and finally cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Per person prices range from $59,995 (Early Booking Savings) to $209,995 for the 115-night World Cruise, and from $6,597 for an individual segment. Regent's 2007 World Cruise guests will be offered an exclusive opportunity to pre-book this journey beginning December 4, 2006, while general bookings will be accepted beginning December 18, 2006. Individual segments will be open for bookings beginning January 15, 2007. Cruise fares include all shipboard gratuities; complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; in-suite bar setup in butler suites; and refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer and bottled water replenished daily.
For brochures, call toll-free (866) 284-4079; for reservation information call toll-free (800) 285-1835; or visit: www.TheRegentExperience.com.
Visit Alaska's Inside Passage With Famed PBS Personalities
Regent Seven Seas Cruises invites guests to join celebrated public broadcasting personalities on a journey of politics and world affairs as well as art, theater and television through its Spotlight on Public Broadcasting on Seven Seas Mariner's May 12, 2007 11-night Alaskan voyage. Part of the cruise line's ongoing onboard enrichment programs, Spotlight Series, Spotlight on Public Broadcasting was created in partnership with local PBS stations nationwide and Artful Travelers, specialists in pairing the best of art, culture, entertainment and travel to create extraordinary experiences.
Spotlight on Public Broadcasting includes in-depth and engaging explorations of politics, current events, film, theater, and television, led by PBS personalities and other special guests. Regent cruise guests may participate in interactive presentations and panel discussions while at sea, specially designed shore excursions while at port, and private cocktail events and dinners hosted by the featured guests and exclusive to Spotlight on Public Broadcasting participants. Featured guest hosts aboard this sailing include:
-- Gwen Ifill, moderator and managing editor of Washington Week, the longest-running public affairs program on public television, and senior correspondent for The News Hour with Jim Lehrer;
-- Scott Simon, a Peabody Award-winning correspondent and host of Weekend Edition Saturday, Simon has covered numerous presidential campaigns and eight wars;
-- Ric Burns, an internationally recognized documentary filmmaker and writer, best known for his epic series New York: A Documentary Film, and for co-producing and co-writing the celebrated PBS series The Civil War;
-- Charlie Cook, editor and publisher of The Cook Political Report and political analyst for the National Journal Group, Cook is widely regarded as one of the nation's leading authorities on U.S. elections and political trends;
-- Scott Ellis, an award-winning director of Broadway and off-Broadway musicals, comedies and dramas;
-- David Lee, one of the most highly acclaimed producers of situation comedies, co-writer and co-producer of The Jeffersons and Cheers, and co-creator of Wings and Frasier.
In addition, noted chefs and winemakers will also be onboard this sailing leading unique events of their own. For example, guests may attend the Battle of the West Coast Wines wine tasting events focusing on the best of California, Oregon and Washington wines.
Also featured on this sailing is a Spotlight on Photography, featuring practical onboard workshops in digital photography with noted travel photographer Paul Sutherland, whose work has appeared in National Geographic and Newsweek among other publications. Additionally, naturalists from famed ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society will be onboard leading lectures on the eco-systems of Alaska.
This special sailing aboard the 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner departs on May 12, 2007 from San Francisco, calling on Astoria, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; Prince Rupert and Seymour Narrows, British Columbia; Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Sitka in Alaska; and ending in Vancouver on May 23. The world's first all-suite, all-balcony ship, recently refurbished Seven Seas Mariner is decidedly more intimate than most of the mass-market vessels cruising the Inside Passage. She is the first to offer menus inspired by the famed Le Cordon Bleu® of Paris in Signatures, one of four open-seating restaurants onboard, and boasts a 1:1.6 crew per guest ratio, providing a peerless level of personal service.
Per person prices for this sailing start from $3,998; guests should mention the code PTVatSEA upon reserving their suite for access to unique events open only to Spotlight on Public Broadcasting guests. (There is no charge for participation in Spotlight Series.) Cruise fares include all shipboard gratuities; complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; in-suite bar setup in butler suites; and refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, beer and bottled water replenished daily.
For more information, guests may visit www.TheRegentExperience.com or www.ptvatsea.com.
Headquartered in Palm Springs, CA with affiliate offices throughout the world, The Artful Travelers is a unique travel organization that combines the best of art, culture, entertainment and travel for those who value extraordinary life experiences. For further information, visit: www.artfultravelers.com or call (206) 617-9098.
Royal Carribean Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean Makes A Big Splash In New Orleans
Royal Caribbean International returns to homeport in New Orleans on December 2, when Grandeur of the Seas sails in with balmy seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries on her roster. The 2,400-passenger ship’s return will help to boost local tourism–and spirits–as the local economy recovers from the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in August 2005. “Royal Caribbean’s return to New Orleans means a lot for the cruise line, and hopefully for the city and its people as well,” said Adam Goldstein, president of Royal Caribbean International. “The impact of Hurricane Katrina was overwhelming, but we are confident that the return of cruising to New Orleans will help bring back the ‘Big Easy,’ reinforcing the city’s legacy as being a truly world-class destination.”
Through April 28, 2007, Grandeur of the Seas will sail to Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman and Costa Maya, Mexico. Prices start at $399 per person, for interior cabins, based on double occupancy.
Grandeur is part of the Vision-class series of ships, known as ships of light and characterized by thousands of windows and stunning glass canopies. The ship comes equipped with a full-service spa, six whirlpools, an outdoor jogging track and a wide variety of bars and restaurants. In addition, Royal Caribbean’s Explorations! program gives Grandeur’s guests the opportunity to explore New Orleans’ history and culture with a guided city tour of the French Quarter, the Garden District and other celebrated neighborhoods in the “Big Easy.”
Royal Caribbean International Offers Family Fun with Strategic Alliances
Royal Caribbean International's littlest guests can get their hands dirty and their minds expanded through new onboard family activities offered by Fisher-Price and Lowe's. These partnerships allow young cruisers to have fun while learning and create lasting memories along the way. More than 330,000 children and teens under 18 sailed with Royal Caribbean in 2005, an 8.4 percent increase over 2004, and an impressive 62 percent increase over 1999. With these staggering numbers in mind, the cruise line continues to look for ways to keep their youth programs fresh and entertaining.
Royal Caribbean's guests, ages 3 to 8, accompanied by their parents, can experience a special driving adventure on the Fisher-Price Power Wheels(R) Track, featured on the cruise line's private island, CocoCay, in the Bahamas. Young driving enthusiasts have the newest Power Wheels(R) vehicles to choose from, including the Jeep(R) Hurricane, Ford(R) Mustang, Cadillac(R) Escalade(TM) Custom Edition in either black or Barbie(R) pink versions, and the Barbie(R) Beach Party Jeep(R) Wrangler(R).
The 'Build and Grow' with Lowe's program invites parents and their children, ages 5 to 11, to take part in constructing and decorating a Lowe's wooden cruise ship, designed exclusively for Royal Caribbean. The Build and Grow workshops, developed by Lowe's, are interactive and encourage children and parents to work side-by-side. Budding builders receive a cruise ship kit, a Lowe's apron, safety goggles, a certificate of completion and merit patch. Build and Grow is part of Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean program, long recognized as one of the industry's premier shipboard youth programs.
In addition to the new Power Wheels(R) Track, Fisher-Price will continue its popular infant and toddler programs fleetwide, in which curriculums created by early childhood experts were developed exclusively for Royal Caribbean. Learning groups are divided into age categories: Aqua Babies, 6 to 18 months and Aqua Tots, 18 to 36 months. Each class offers 45-minute play groups in which parents and their children can explore, discover and imagine with great toys, songs and themed activities.
In a continuing effort to offer its youngest cruisers amazing adventures, Royal Caribbean has re-launched its Adventure Science program. The new High Touch-High Tech Adventure Science program, also part of Adventure Ocean, provides participatory science experiences for children of every age. Each interactive program is 45 minutes long with such themes as: Meteorology Madness, Buccaneer's Bounty, The Power of the Sun, Volcanoes, Think Snow and Jurassic Jr. "Adventure Science continues to be the most exciting program for children on the high seas," said Jaclyn Fink, Adventure Ocean specialist, Royal Caribbean International. "Young cruisers don't expect to conduct fascinating science experiments while on vacation, but High Touch-High Tech brings science to life 1,000 miles out to sea. Before they know it, they've learned the impact made by Isaac Newton in everyday life."
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Drops Libya Port Calls From 2007 Cruises
Seabourn Cruise Line has cancelled calls in Libya scheduled for the ultra luxury Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend in 2007, due to that country's refusal to permit entry for its guests traveling on U.S. passports. "We regret the need to change any itinerary," said Seabourn's president Pamela C. Conover, "but we have repeatedly petitioned the Libyan authorities to allow all of our guests into their country and they have shown no indication that they will do so. Fortunately, there are very attractive alternatives available, and we have added several."
The change affects two cruises, the first of which is a 12-day voyage aboard Seabourn Spirit from Alexandria, Egypt to Rome, departing May 7, 2007. On that cruise, instead of two days at Tripoli and one day at Derna, Libya, guests will enjoy calls at Kusadasi, Turkey, for Ephesus; the Greek Isle of Mykonos, a transit of the Corinth Canal and a call at Itea, Greece, near the ancient ruins of Delphi. The voyage also includes calls at medieval Valletta and Gozo in Malta; Catania on Sicily; a maiden call at the Aeolian island of Lipari and picturesque Sorrento, Italy; ending at Civitavecchia, Italy on May 19.
The second affected cruise is an 11-day voyage aboard Seabourn Legend, sailing between Rome and Lisbon on October 27, 2007. On that voyage, visits to Naples, Italy; Palermo, Sicily and Valletta, Malta will replace a scheduled two-day call at Tripoli. The other scheduled ports on the cruise, including Sousse, Tunisia; Cagliari, Sardinia and Malaga, Spain, will remain on the itinerary. At Sousse in Tunisia, all Seabourn Legend guests will be invited to an Exclusively Seabourn experience including traditional Tunisian music in one of the old city's historic Moorish houses.
The autumn voyage is being offered at Early Bookings savings of up to 40 percent and fares starting from $4,997 per person, double occupancy. For past guests of Seabourn or any member line of World's Leading Cruise Lines, (Carnival, Costa, Cunard, Holland America, Princess or Windstar) Signature Value Savings of 50 percent apply, with fares from $4,148 per person, double.
Complete revised itineraries for both voyages may be viewed on the Cruise Calendar section of Seabourn's website at www.seabourn.com .
Great Gift Idea: Guarantee Fare On Seabourn's Greek Isles
It might not qualify as a stocking stuffer, but The Yachts of Seabourn is playing Santa with a sugarplum offer of a special Guarantee Fare on a seven-day voyage of the "Greek Isles and Turquoise Coast" aboard its intimate, all-suite Seabourn Spirit. Cruise only fare is $3,995 per person, based on double occupancy of a 277-square foot ocean-view suite in category A or better. The specific suite will be confirmed by Seabourn 30 days prior to departure.
The cruise departs Athens (Piraeus) on June 23, 2007 and visits the Greek isles of Mykonos, Mylos and Patmos, as well as Fethiye and Kusadasi in Turkey before ending at Istanbul on June 30. At Kusadasi, all Seabourn Spirit guests will be invited to a complimentary "Exclusively Seabourn" evening reception and concert in the ruins of ancient Ephesus after the site is closed to the public.
Aside from the breathtaking ports of call, guests will enjoy Signature Delights including complimentary service of spirits and wines including French champagne throughout the cruise, gourmet cuisine created by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, and indulgent Pure Pampering therapeutic bathing selections from Molton Brown.
For details, contact your travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.
Washington Insiders Highlight Seabourn's 2007 Dress Circle Enrichment
Guests traveling on select cruises aboard The Yachts of Seabourn in 2007 will share their voyages with luminaries from the closely entwined worlds of international politics and investigative journalism. Seabourn has invited a trio of prominent personalities, each possessed of special knowledge on these topics, to sail on board and provide its guests with privileged insights into the inner workings of public policy and the news media, as a part of the Dress Circle onboard enrichment program.
-- David S. Broder is a Pulitzer Prize-winning correspondent for the Washington Post; a syndicated columnist whose insights are carried in over 300 newspapers nationwide, the author of half a dozen books on U.S. politics and a regular commentator on NBC's Meet the Press; PBS's Washington Week in Review and CNN's Inside Politics. He will sail aboard Seabourn Pride's 13-day cruise of "Rio & the Amazon" departing Rio de Janeiro on February 18, 2007.
-- Robert C. McFarlane is intimately familiar with the corridors of power, having served as national security advisor to President Reagan and in key White House posts in the Ford and Nixon administrations. As founder of Global Energy Systems and a director of the Washington Institute for Near East Studies, he is uniquely suited to join Seabourn Spirit's 16-day voyage to "Arabia, India & Orchid Isles" departing Dubai on November 20, 2007.
-- Bob Schieffer was the popular anchor of the CBS Evening News in 2005 and 2006, but his exemplary career as a broadcast journalist includes 20 years as anchor of the Saturday CBS Evening News, 15 years as moderator of the network's Sunday staple Face the Nation, and much more. As CBS chief Washington correspondent, he has covered presidential campaigns since 1972. He will be on board Seabourn Spirit's 14-day cruise of "Asian Capitals & Vietnam" departing Singapore on December 6, 2007.
On Seabourn's yacht-like, 208-guest ships, guests will enjoy a privileged proximity to these celebrated experts, whose insights and anecdotes will surely add luster to the fascinating journey that they all will share. They will also enjoy Seabourn's Signature Delights including complimentary service of spirits and wines including French champagne throughout every cruise, gourmet cuisine created by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, indulgent Pure Pampering therapeutic bathing selections from Molton Brown and an Exclusively Seabourn complimentary shoreside experience on every cruise.
With Early Booking Savings of up to 40 percent, fares for these cruises start from $6,333 per person, based on double occupancy of a 277-square foot ocean-view suite. Past guests of Seabourn or any member line of the World's Leading cruise Lines (Carnival, Costa, Cunard, Holland America, Princess or Windstar) qualify for VIP Savings of 50 percent and fares from $5,198 per person, double on some departures.
For details, consult your travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Takes The Wraps Off World Cruise 2008
Energized by the overwhelming success of World Cruise 2007, scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale next month, Silversea is excited to unveil World Cruise 2008, appropriately themed The Rhythms of the World. The curtain rises on January 16, 2008, when Silver Shadow is set to embark on a 110-day voyage, encircling the world and embracing the cultures of more than 25 countries and over 50 different ports of call.
Departing Fort Lauderdale, the intimate Silver Shadow, with no more than 382 privileged and pampered guests on board, will sail through the Panama Canal and along the Mexican Riviera, following a route of enchantment to no less than four tropical Hawaiian hideaways. Intriguing island destinations like Majuro in the Marshall Islands, Pohnpei in Micronesia, Apra Harbor on the island of Guam, and historic Iwo Jima, all previously unexplored by Silversea, will host inaugural calls. Guests will discover exotic Far East traditions and the timeless beauty of Egypt. They'll savor some of the world's most cherished cuisines and explore the splendors of Italy and Spain before crossing the Atlantic to a warm Caribbean welcome, returning full-circle to Fort Lauderdale. Highlights of this epic journey will include extended overnight calls in Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Mumbai and Barcelona.
On World Cruise 2008, guests will enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations (most with private veranda), sumptuous gourmet cuisine, personalized service, warm Italian hospitality, and Silversea's generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and all gratuities. Plus, complimentary Butler Service is provided in the Grand, Royal, Rossellini and Owner's Suites.
The following complimentary amenities will also be available to guests who book the full 110-day cruise: exclusive shoreside events, including a hosted event on the eve of departure with hotel accommodations and private transfer and baggage handling between airport, hotel and ship; an onboard spending credit; escorted shore excursions to exotic sites in select ports of call; a gala farewell event; and special commemorative gifts. A complimentary Business Class air upgrade is also available for guests who purchase Silversea’s optional Air and Hotel Program.
World Cruise 2008 officially opens for reservations on January 2, 2007, when pricing and the complete itinerary will also be available at www.silversea.com.
Windstar Cruises
‘Wind Surf’ Adds New Dives in Caribbean
Wind Surf’s popular scuba diving program in the Caribbean has been expanded with new double-tank dive sites in Dominica, Grenada and St. Martin. Windstar Cruises’ elegant 312-guest motor sailing yacht Wind Surf offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean on reefs teeming with marine life.
The shores of Dominica are well-known for excellent diving and the ship’s stop in Roseau allows for two dives in the Scottshead Marine Reserve. The first dive at L’Abym takes divers to a vertical wall dropping to more than 800-feet in some places and teems with schooling reef fish. The second dive site, called Champagne, is located in a freshwater hot spring offering a unique experience diving with geo-thermal vents pumping up air bubbles and hot water.
In Grenada, two dives in Flamingo Bay center around impressive rocks covered in rock fans, gorgonian bushes, barrel sponges, and coral fingers ending in a sandy white bottom. Divers may see a great variety of marine life here including sergeant majors, yellow stripe grunts, goatfish, lobster, eels and small octopus.
At the Wind Surf’s stop in St. Martin, divers will transfer over to the Dutch side of the island where a local dive operator will choose two dive sites. Divers will descend down a mooring line onto the top of the reef. Diving in this area is known for close encounters with reef sharks, nurse sharks, hawksbill turtles, stingrays and possibly dolphins.
Scuba diving enthusiasts can take advantage of Windstar’s Dive the Five package offered at $350 for five one-tank dives. A Discover Scuba Diving program, as well as a PADI Advanced Open Water Course and Adventures in Diving program are also offered.
The Wind Surf’s southbound itinerary roundtrip from Bridgetown, Barbados visits Bequia, Grenadines; Roseau, Dominica; Pigeon Island, St. Lucia; Mayreau, Grenadines; St. Georges, Grenada; and Tobago. The northbound itinerary roundtrip from Barbados visits Charlestown, Nevis; St. Martin; St. Barthélemy; Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe; Îles des Saintes; and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia. The two itineraries are ideal for combining into a two-week cruising vacation.
Windstar’s scuba diving program is also offered on the msy Wind Star in Costa Rica and the msy Wind Spirit sailing out of St. Thomas in the Caribbean.
As part of the line’s Degrees of Difference initiative, another multi-million dollar investment will be made in all three ships in 2006 and 2007. For the Caribbean season, the Wind Surf will be fresh from a five-week work period in the fall with remodeled bathrooms in all staterooms, two new deluxe suites and the Yacht Club, the new hub of the ship with computers, Internet, espresso bar, books and movies, flatscreen TV and comfortable seating.
For more information including brochures, rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
