Welcome to Ships and Cruises - Special Cruises

Azamara Club Cruises

Carnival Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises/UK

Azamara Club Cruises

Website: www.azamaraclubcruises.com

Azamara Club Cruises Explores The British Isles And Norwegian Coast In 2011

Azamara Club Cruises will span the breathtaking Norwegian Coast, diverse Icelandic landscapes, and charming British Isles on two unique voyages in summer 2011. Up-market travelers can choose among two remarkable voyages, departing from Copenhagen on August 17 or from Dublin on August 29, 2011, which sail to compelling destinations and enjoy extraordinary service aboard the European boutique hotel-style ship, Azamara Journey. Travelers also can take advantage of early booking values in 2010 for these two voyages, which offer 2-for-1 cruise fares, included gratuities, 50-percent rates on Azamara Land Discoveries shore excursions, and up to $2,000 savings per couple.

--Departing from Copenhagen, Denmark, the intimate, 694-guest Azamara Journey, will sail on a 12-night Iceland and Norwegian Fjords voyage on August 17, 2011. The ship will feature an overnight stay in Reykjavik, and include calls at Bergen and Geiranger in Norway; Lerwick/Shetland, Scotland; Akureyri, Iceland; and Torshavn in the Faroe Islands before arriving in Dublin on August 29, 2011.

-- Azamara Journey also will offer a ten-night voyage departing Dublin Port on August 29, 2011, featuring two days in Bordeaux, France, and Lisbon, Portugal, as well as call at Holyhead, Wales; Cork/Cobh, Ireland; and Bilbao, Gijon and Vigo in Spain.

Azamara Club Cruises sails in Northern and Western Europe, Mediterranean, Asia, South America and the Panama Canal, Transatlantic, and the less-traveled islands of the Caribbean, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region.

Azamara Club Cruises Expands To Ireland

Azamara Club Cruises has expanded into the Irish market with two new voyages from Dublin. In summer 2011, the 694-guest Azamara Journey will sail on a 12-night itinerary to Iceland and the Norwegian Fjords and a ten-night voyage around European cities.

Carnival Cruises

Website: www.carnival.com

Carnival Repositions Two Ships To Long Beach, CA and Tampa FL In 2011

Carnival Cruise Lines has announced two exciting year-round homeport deployments for fall 2011, with the 2,052-passenger Carnival Inspiration repositioning to Long Beach, California, for three- and four-day Baja departures; and the 2,052-passenger Carnival Paradise to Tampa, Florida, on four- and five-day Caribbean voyages.

Carnival Inspiration is currently based in Tampa while Carnival Paradise operates from Long Beach.

To reposition to their new homeports, each ship will offer a 14-day Panama Canal voyage that will provide consumers with a highly attractive longer length “Fun Ship” cruise option, as well as the unforgettable experience of transiting the Panama Canal.

Carnival Paradise Panama Canal cruise will sail from Long Beach to Tampa departing November 28, 2011, while Carnival Inspiration Panama Canal voyage will depart Dec. 3, 2011, and operate from Tampa to Long Beach.

These voyages will be highlighted by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of transiting the Panama Canal, one of the great technological achievements of the 20th century, where ships are raised 85 feet in the air via a series of three locks and then gently lowered back again. The transit also includes the crossing of 163-square-mile Gatun Lake, the world’s largest man-made lake, which is surrounded by a variety of native tropical foliage and interesting sites.

Each voyage will also feature visits to five magnificent ports of call: Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class resort destination distinguished by rugged rock formations, lush landscape and gorgeous beaches. Known for its death-defying cliff divers, Acapulco boasts excellent beaches, and a variety of fine restaurants and shops. Located on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, Puntarenas is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and an abundance of wildlife and eco-tourism opportunities. Cartagena features centuries-old architecture and historical sites, including a colonial walled city and fortress designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The capital of the Cayman Islands, George Town offers outstanding duty-free bargains as well as world-renowned Seven Mile Beach.

Early Saver rates for these voyages start at $949 per person based on double occupancy.

--Carnival Inspiration will bring an exciting new dimension to West Coast cruising when it launches year-round three- and four-day Baja cruises from Long Beach Dec. 19, 2011. On this route, three-day cruises depart Fridays and visit Ensenada while four-day voyages depart Mondays and call at both Ensenada and Catalina Island. The ship will operate a special one-time two-day cruise to Ensenada Dec. 17 to 19, 2011.

-- Carnival Paradise will assume Carnival Inspiration’s popular year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruise schedule from Tampa beginning Dec. 12, 2011. On this route, Carnival Paradise will depart Thursdays on four-day cruises to Cozumel and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day voyages to Cozumel and Grand Cayman.

Reservations are currently being accepted for the new schedules of the Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Paradise as well as the 14-day Panama Canal cruises.

Celebrity Cruises

Website: www.celebritycruises.com

Celebrity Celebrates The Wine Harvest Season

Guests onboard a Celebrity cruise departing between November 1 and December 11, 2010 will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of exclusive wine-related events including the cruise line’s second annual onboard Wine Harvest celebration.

Highlights of the Celebrity Cruises’ Wine Harvest Celebration include an emphasis on French food, wine and spirits, presented in partnership with the French Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, available to guests onboard Celebrity’s ships from November 1 to 19, 2010.

Celebrity Cruises will reprise its 2009 industry-first unveiling of Beaujolais Nouveau across the fleet on November 18 (November 19 on Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Century). Hosted by a guest speaker and Celebrity Cruises’ own Cellar Master, the event will offer guests the opportunity to sip the eagerly-anticipated light wine from oak casks and commemorative bottles, while enjoying live music and dancing, canapés, gourmet French cheese and a roast carving station.

Guests with a passion for music and chocolate will enjoy Celebrity Cruises’ “Jazz, Port and Chocolate Tasting Seduction,” with a complimentary glass of port wine and a deluxe chocolate buffet and fountain, all set against a backdrop of light jazz music.

Throughout the course of the celebration, a “Celebrity Wine Harvest Exhibition” will be open to all guests on embarkation day. Hosted by Celebrity Cruises’ certified sommeliers, the event features a complimentary glass of house wine, canapés and hors d’oeuvres, and an overview of the varied wine experiences and packages available for guests, paired with the opportunity to make reservations for limited-capacity events.

Additional wine-focused experiences offered year-round through Celebrity Life include:

--“Wine Appreciation 101” presents tastings of six different varietals and wine appreciation tips offered by Celebrity Cruise’s certified cellarmasters.

--“The Art of Food and Wine Pairing” explores how certain flavor components, such as acids in food, can impact the flavor of wines.

--“Celebrity’s World Wine Tour and Silent Auction” allows guests to taste wines from each of the regions represented in Celebrity Cruises’ global wine program, including South Africa, France, Germany/Austria, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and South America. The tastings are paired with canapés, fruits and cheeses followed by a silent auction of premium wines packaged at special prices.

-- The Riedel Workshop. Participants learn and experience how the shape of a wine glass can affect the outcome of flavors on the palate, and hear the interesting tale of how the Riedel family has influenced the crystal industry.

Complimentary wine tastings.

Every sailing will feature presentations by Celebrity Cruises certified Cellar Master, a guest winemaker, or a guest speaker.

Only the Riedel workshop requires pre-registration; guests can sign up once onboard, at the Celebrity Wine Harvest Exposition or at the guest relations desk. Some of Celebrity’s wine-focused activities require guests to pay a participation fee.

Celebrity Cruise’s Wine Harvest Celebration will be offered on nine of its ten ships; Celebrity Xpedition, the 92-guest mega-yacht sailing year-round in the Galapagos Islands, will not offer these activities.

Celebrity Cruises/UK

Website. www.celebritycruises.co.uk

Head to the Med with Celebrity Cruises

See the sights of Italy and the Mediterranean aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Eclipse on a 14-night Italian Mediterranean cruise costing from only £1,409.00* per person (based on two people sharing an inside cabin)

Onboard features include a real grass lawn on deck, a glass-blowing show and studio developed with The Corning Museum of Glass and the Celebrity iLounge, the Apple-only Internet café and Apple reseller.

Price includes a 14-night Italian Mediterranean cruise departing from Southampton (England) and calling at Gibraltar (UK), Provence (Toulon, France), Florence (Italy), Rome (Italy), Cagliari (Sardinia, Italy), Seville (Cadiz, Spain), Lisbon (Portugal) and Vigo (Spain), before returning to Southampton (England); meals and entertainment onboard and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

*Price is based on 07 May 2011 departure.

Crystal Cruises

Website: www.crystalcruises.com

Crystal Cruises Decks the Halls - and Everything Else - for Holiday Voyages

In its traditional six-star style, Crystal Cruises is introducing extravagantly redesigned decor aboard its two award-winning ships this holiday season. With each ship boasting distinctly different themes, thousands of glittering lights, ribbon-wrapped wreaths, reindeer in faux mink swags, candy canes, crystal ornaments - even feathers - will adorn Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity for the 2010 Christmas/New Year cruises. Respectively, the vessels sail round-trip from Los Angeles on a December 22 voyage to the Hawaiian Islands and round-trip from Miami on a December 21 Caribbean itinerary.

"Holidays aboard Crystal ships are always lavish affairs, with unforgettable banquets and parties and decorations planned for families and friends traveling and celebrating together," says Bret Bullock, vice president, entertainment.

Christmas brings traditional feasts, eggnog and holiday shows, while a black-tie New Year's Eve party rings in the New Year. Clergy will be on board for religious services.

Both 14-day sailings include $500 per person 'All Inclusive - As You Wish' shipboard credits.

-- With promotional Two-for-One fares, Crystal Serenity's Caribbean cruise starts at $7,995 per person, double occupancy. Guests booking by September 30 save $1,000 per person savings on verandah and penthouse accommodations, and kids age 17 and under sail free in a third berth with two full-fare adults.

--Crystal Symphony's Hawaiian voyage starts at $6,395 per person, double occupancy.

New Low Business Class Air For Crystal's Summer 2011 European Cruises

Luxury specialist Crystal Cruises announces reduced Business Class air add-ons for nine 2011 Mediterranean, Baltic and North Cape voyages aboard Crystal Serenity. Guests booking verandah and deluxe staterooms can upgrade their complimentary coach air transportation to Business Class for only $999 each way from more than 20 North American gateway cities. While Business Class air transportation is included with Crystal's penthouse accommodations for Europe, the new promotional add-on fares for all other accommodations are available on the following voyages:

* May 22, June 2 and June 27 - Baltic Sea voyages with double overnights in St. Petersburg, departing from Stockholm, Copenhagen and Hamburg;

* June 13 and July 8 - North Cape cruises exploring Norway and the Polar Ice Cap, departing from Copenhagen;

* July 22 - British Isles voyage round-trip from London; and

* August 2, August 14 and August 26 - Western Europe/Mediterranean cruises, including Black Sea ports, departing from London, Rome and Barcelona.

Included with all 2011 voyages are All Inclusive - As You Wish' shipboard spending credits of up to $1,000 per person, and a host of family and group perks with the Crystal Family Memories program. Guests booking verandah or penthouse accommodations on the May 22, June 13 or August 26 cruises by December 31 will receive up to $3,000 per couple in additional savings. The Business Class air promotion is capacity controlled and subject to space availability.

Per person, promotional, Two-for-One cruise fares for the above voyages start at $7,010, while verandah staterooms start at $7,770, double occupancy.

Fitness Experts Set For Crystal's Mexican Riviera Cruise

To jump start New Year's resolutions, best-selling fitness author and head trainer for "Dr. Phil's Ultimate Weight Loss Challenge," Robert Reames, along with guest specialists in Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi and even paddle tennis, will headline Crystal Symphony's December 5 ultra-luxury Mind, Body & Spirit voyage. The Experience of Discovery cruise, with comprehensive wellness programming and complimentary instruction

throughout, departs round-trip from Los Angeles for Cabo San Lucas, Puerto

Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Robert Reames, who has also appeared as a guest expert on various major

television networks, including CBS's Early Show and Fox Morning News, will lead

informative presentations, as well as more intimate question-and-answer sessions

for guests to address specific issues. Other experts include:

* Anita Sanci - A certified, professional Kripalu Yoga teacher and Yoga

Teachers' Alliance facilitator, Sanci will teach classes for all levels;

* Tracey Mallett - The internationally renowned Pilates and fitness coach will

teach Pilates mat and Reformer group classes;

* Dr. Martin Lee - Lee, founder of the Tai Chi Cultural Institute will teach

classes and lecture on youthful longevity;

* Anand Amritraj - Amritraj, among the first Indian members of the international

tennis team and, with his brother, a semi-finalist in men's doubles at

Wimbledon, will give lessons on Crystal's paddle tennis courts.

Along with special theme-related programs, Crystal boasts numerous

complimentary options for guests seeking health and wellness on vacation,

including the line's Exclusive Walk on Water program; State-of-the-Art KinesisT

Equipment; Tour de Spin Indoor Cycling Classes; and acupuncture treatments, as

well as low-fat, low-carb and sugar-free options on virtually every menu.

Per person, promotional Two-for-one cruise fares start at $2,165 (double

occupancy), and include $500 per person 'All Inclusive - As You Wish' shipboard

credit.

Natural Beauty Of The South Pacific Shines On Crystal Voyage

From soaring high over Bora Bora by helicopter to swimming with – or simply viewing – the diverse sea life that inhabit the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Cruises is offering nearly three dozen Crystal Adventures revealing the South Pacific’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Crystal Serenity’s 12-day, January 30 voyage sails from Papeete to Auckland,

featuring different perspectives on the region’s famous tropical culture. Visiting the Society and Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga and Auckland, shoreside

adventures highlight the untouched landscapes and lush vegetation, indigenous

wildlife and even 3,000-year-old local villages, including:

* Hike into Rarotonga’s Takitumi Rainforest, where conservation efforts continue

to preserve the island’s native plants and animals like the rare ground orchid

and the long-tailed cuckoo;

* Climb to Bora Bora’s Pahonu Hill for panoramic views of the island’s reefs and

lagoons, or snorkel on the barrier reef past Toopua Point;

* Experience Auckland’s west coast, with forests teeming with native wildlife,

one of the world’s most awe-inspiring black-sand beaches and cascading

waterfalls pouring into a rainforest; and

* Meet local families and join a traditional kava ceremony at the Viseisei

Fijian Village, where the first settlers of Fiji landed 3,000 years ago.

Guests can also expand their awareness with onboard presentations from acclaimed

earth and environmental scientist David J. Drewry.

Promotional Two-for-One segment fares start at $6,910, per person, double

occupancy, including complimentary air transportation from many North American

gateways and up to $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard

credits.

Guests can earn $400 in shipboard credits for each new-to-Crystal guest they refer who sails on the same voyage with Crystal’s new Bonus Share the Experience program.

Cunard Line

Website: www.cunard.com

Embark On A Royal Oceanic Affair With Cunard

Not one, but two Queens will make their way to Australia next February, 2011 as Cunard Line announces new coastal fares between Sydney and Fremantle aboard its luxury cruise liners, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2.

As part of her one 103-day world odyssey, the Queen Elizabeth will begin her maiden visit to Australia in Sydney, offering guests a seven-night voyage, making port at Melbourne, before continuing on to Fremantle in Western Australia. Her journey begins February 22, 2011 with fares from $2499* per person twin share.

The Queen Mary 2 will embark upon a journey of her own as she farewells Fremantle on February 17, 2011 for a five-night adventure, calling at Adelaide, bound for Sydney. Fares begin at $1809* per person twin share.

A royal rendezvous is destined, as both Queens of the ocean drop anchor on February 22, 2011 in Sydney Harbour.

Fares are subject to availability and conditions apply.

Cunard To Offer Cruises To Hawaii On Queen Victoria

In late January 2011, as part of Queen Victoria’s debut Americas Season, Cunard Line will offer guests the opportunity to experience The New Golden Age of Ocean Travel with luxury cruise vacations to the tranquil islands of Hawaii. Additionally, guests sailing on the February 17 voyage will enjoy a very special Cunard Insights program presented by Rona Barrett, often recognized as the first lady of entertainment news in the US.

The Hawaiian Adventure cruises depart round-trip from Los Angeles for two relaxing weeks sailing the Hawaiian Islands; starting January 30 and again on February 17, guests aboard Queen Victoria will visit Hilo (Hawaii), Honolulu (Oahu), Nawiliwili (Kauai) and Lahaina (Maui), as well as a quick visit to Ensenada (Mexico).

Barrett is one of the pioneers and innovators in entertainment news reporting and publishing in the United States. She developed the first in-depth personal TV specials about the celebrities of film, television, music, sports and politics, and published a series of magazines on the entertainment industry for consumers and for industry insiders, including Rona Barrett’s Hollywood.

Barrett joins Cunard's illustrious legacy of welcoming world-famous guests, experts and intriguing presenters including Winston Churchill, President Nelson Mandela, Jean Chatzky, Tina Brown & Sir Harold Evans, Lady Margaret Thatcher, Elizabeth Taylor, James Taylor, Carly Simon, Rod Stewart, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Buzz Aldrin.

Queen Victoria will spend more time on the West Coast in winter 2011 as she comes off Cunard’s historic Royal Rendezvous in New York – where all three Queens will be docked on January 13.

Holland America Line

Website: www.hollandamerica.com

Holland America Line Offers Exceptional Value on Holiday Cruises for Families

This holiday season Holland America Line is providing the ultimate getaway gift for the entire family with 22 signature holiday cruises ranging from seven to 17 days. Whether basking in a Caribbean sunset or reveling in the ultimate Antarctic white Christmas, guests aboard the premium line can leave the hustle and bustle behind and enjoy up to 50 percent savings, plus special reduced rates for third and fourth guests sharing staterooms, on select sailings.

Special rates are geared toward families on several holiday cruises - with six dates offering free or $199 rates for the third or fourth guest in a stateroom. Double-occupancy fares start at $699 per person, plus tax, for a seven-day Caribbean holiday cruise.

On-board festivities include holiday decorations, sumptuous traditional meals, seasonal movies, culinary classes and demonstrations featuring tasty holiday treats, a visit from Santa for the kids, activities and crafts, strolling carolers, a tree-lighting ceremony, eggnog in the Atrium, Christmas brunch, Santa's milk and cookie late-night snack, and a holiday show by the crew on Christmas Eve.

Those sailing on any ship over December31 will enjoy a traditional New Year's Eve Gala Ball with live music, dancing, festive attire and a midnight toast. Select college bowl games also will be broadcast on board. Each holiday voyage features clergy to conduct Catholic, Protestant and Jewish services (for cruises during Hanukkah).

--The Caribbean

Thirteen Caribbean holiday cruise options are available between December 17 and December 31 aboard seven ships - ms Westerdam, ms Maasdam, ms Eurodam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Prinsendam and ms Noordam - departing from Fort Lauderdale or Tampa, Florida over one or both holidays.

Itineraries include a seven-day southern Caribbean cruise with stops at such exotic ports as Aruba and Curacao. Or try seven days exploring the rich waters of the eastern Caribbean and legendary ports of call such as Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Finally, holiday cruisers can choose among western Caribbean options with stops that might include Belize, Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Costa Maya, Mexico, and Key West, Fla.

Travelers with more time can opt for ten- to 14-day Caribbean cruises and usher in the New Year in St. Thomas or St. George's while sampling the ports of Barbados and Grand Turk.

Most itineraries feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's award-winning exclusive private island experience with white sand beaches, aqua waters and shore activities ranging from horseback riding to a stingray adventure.

-- Caribbean, Central America and Mexico

Departing from Fort Lauderdale, San Diego or Los Angeles, California, in mid- to late-December, five cruises feature distinct itineraries that visit different collections of warm-water ports along the Mexican Riviera, Central America, Panama Canal and Caribbean.

The Sunfarer Caribbean Holiday cruise is a ten-day trip from Fort Lauderdale on December 23 aboard ms Zuiderdam in the southern Caribbean with Christmas Eve at Half Moon Cay, a partial transit of the Panama Canal and New Year's Eve at sea, returning January 2, 2011.

Two more cruises visit the Panama Canal beginning with a 14-day cruise that departs Los Angeles December 22 aboard ms Amsterdam in time for Christmas Day at sea and stops in Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica before traversing the Canal en route to Fort Lauderdale. Or guests can opt for the 14-day Panama Canal Holiday Cruise on ms Statendam departing San Diego on Christmas Eve. Stops in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta and Puerto Chiapas before crossing the canal to reach Fort Lauderdale.

Christmas and New Years holidays along the Mexican Riviera can be particularly memorable on an eight-day cruise from San Diego aboard ms Oosterdam departing December 18, or a seven-day sailing December 26 that visits Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Or guests can opt for a 12-day cruise departing December 22 on ms Rotterdam that features Christmas Eve in Cabo San Lucas, Christmas Day at sea and New Year's Eve in Mazatlan.

-- The Pacific

The warm waters of the far Pacific offer memorable holiday adventures as well. A 14-day Circle Hawaii sailing aboard ms Zaandam departs San Diego December 19 with Christmas Eve in Hilo, Christmas Day in Nawiliwili and New Year's Day in Ensenada, Mexico. Departing December 17 and with limited space, the 16-day Australia-New Zealand Holiday Cruise aboard ms Volendam explores the southern coast of Australia from Sydney before an extensive tour of New Zealand ports such as Milford Sound and Auckland, and celebrating Christmas Eve in Wellington.

-- White Christmas in the Antarctic

Guests who want their holidays adorned with snow and ice will see a white Christmas on the 17-day South America and Antarctica Explorer journey. Departing Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile, December 20, ms Veendam steers south amid the glaciers to spend Christmas Eve cruising Darwin Channel and the Chilean Fjords, Christmas Day sailing Amalia Glacier Canal and New Year's Eve in the Antarctic Sound.

Louis Cruises

Website: www.louiscruises.com

Louis Cruises Introduces 2011-2012 Brochure

Louis Cruises invites travelers to explore and enjoy the Eastern and Western Mediterranean and beyond with their just released, expansive collection of cruises presented in the company’s new March 2011 - March 2012 brochure. The comprehensive 60-page publication includes Louis Cruises' itineraries -- each offering a complete destination experience that combines famous highlights with lesser known gems in a way that will fulfill travelers every expectation.

Louis Cruises is pleased to unveil the entire array cruise itineraries offered on five of the fleet’s vessels including the Louis Cristal, Louis Majesty, Coral, Orient Queen, and Aquamarine. Featured throughout the full-color publication are 16 exciting cruise programs where guests can sail along to discover the treasures of some of the world’s most exotic ports of call.

The cruise line's unique programs take travelers to embark on journeys of revealing destinations from the grandeur of Ancient Greece and the legendary Greek Isles to the most celebrated splendors of Italy…from the worldly sophistication of France and the lively ambiance of Malta, to the intrigue of Turkey…From the treasures of Spain and Morocco, to the intricate mysteries of Egypt and Israel -Louis Cruises cruise programs are meticulously planned to provide travelers a complete destination experience.

The new 2011-12 Louis Cruises brochure will be accessible online at http://www.louiscruises.com/en/download-brochures.html in October. (The printed version is now available.) The brochure will also be available in the ebrochures section of www.mailpound.com. Via mailpound.com, agents can create a printed brochure with a personalized cover and marketing message to mail directly to their clients. They can also create a full ebrochure, personalized by the agent to send electronically or a customized version that contains only the cruise content of interest to the client.

2011 Cruises offered include:

-- Eight-day/seven -night Spanish Odyssey – Sailing aboard Louis Majesty, travelers will enjoy the splendors of Genoa as their point of embarkation for a splendid voyage to visit Marseilles in France; then Mallorca, Almeria, and Malaga in Spain; next heading to Tangier in Morocco; before returning to the Iberian Peninsula to explore Ibiza and Barcelona for a glorious journey (From $1,499 -- SMART RATE now available from $749 pp.book early to get the best rate!)

-- Eight-day/seven-night Three Continents – Onboard the Louis Cristal travelers sail to intriguing destinations along Europe, Asia and Africa for an ultimate exploration that visits three continents. This to adventure takes you to delve into cities and villages in Greece, Egypt, Israel, the Greek Islands, and Turkey -- beginning and concluding in Athens (From $1,199)

-- Eleven-Day/ten-Night Corinth Canal, Greek Islands, Istanbul– Onboard Louis Cruises' Coral, guests will revel in this itinerary that embarks in a choice of either Marseilles or Genoa then navigates along to Olympia, Santorini, Istanbul, Mykonos, and Athens, before enjoying the unique and impressive experience of sailing through the Corinth Canal, then traveling on to Sicily (From $899).

MSC Cruises

Website: www.msccruises.com or www.msccruisesusa.com

Special Caribbean Air/Sea Packages from West Coast Gateways

For a limited time only, MSC Cruises is offering special air/sea packages from West Coast gateways for bookings of select balcony accommodations on Caribbean sailings of MSC Poesia.

The packages include roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Fort Lauderdale, airport transfers and select balcony accommodations beginning at $999 per person for a 7-night Eastern or Western Caribbean sailing and $1,399 per person for a 14-night cruise that combines both the Western and Eastern itineraries. Government fees and taxes and air taxes are additional. Offer expires on October 15.

Air/Sea West Coast Inclusive rates are available on the following roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale:

-- November 14 and December 12, 2010: seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary, calling at St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Island; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Nassau, Bahamas

-- December 5, 2010: 7-night Western Caribbean sailing, calling at Key West, Florida; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico

-- December 5, 2010: 14-night Western/Eastern Caribbean, combining both itineraries.

The November 14 and December 5 sailings are also two of MSC Cruises popular “Baseball Greats” theme cruises, where guests can interact with former Major Leaguers. “Baseball Greats” cruises offer free guest/player activities including a player-hosted trivia game, a question-and-answer session, a guest pitching contest, and a lively story-telling session. Baseball players host pitching, hitting, fielding, base running clinics and a free autograph session.

“Baseball Greats” guests on the November 14 sailing will be Hall-of-Famer Bob Feller, Tommy Davis, Glenn Beckert, Clarence Jones and Stan Bahnsen, while Graig Nettles, Amos Otis, Dave Campbell, Vida Blue, and Stan Bahnsen are scheduled to participate in the December 5 cruise.

MSC Poesia features sophisticated and elegant decor, attention to detail, the finest in international entertainment and Italian hospitality and an eco-friendly design. Guests can select from four restaurants, including a Sushi Bar specialty dining restaurant.

‘The More the Merrier’ Rates On MSC Poesia’s Caribbean Sailing

Because MSC Cruises believes holidays are meant to be shared with families and friends, the cruise line is offering a special “The More the Merrier” rate with significant savings on the Christmas sailing of MSC Poesia in the Caribbean. The special rate is available on MSC Poesia’s December 19, seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary from Fort Lauderdale.

With “The More the Merrier” rates, guests in the first stateroom pay the early booking rate while guests in the second stateroom pay 50 percent off the early booking rate. For those booking an inside stateroom, for example, rates start as low as $649 per person for the first stateroom and $324.50 per person for the second stateroom. Rates for a balcony stateroom begin at $949 per person for the first stateroom and $474.50 per person for the second.

The cruise-only rate is applicable when four guests book two staterooms at the same time. Government fees and taxes are additional. Offer expires on October 15.

MSC Poesia’s December 19 roundtrip cruise from Fort Lauderdale includes calls at Key West, Florida; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and a Christmas celebration at sea.

Sashay at Sea with MSC Cruises’ New Dance Cruises

MSC Cruises has added Dance to its roster of theme cruises including Card Games, Chess, Food and Wine, Wellness, Cultural, Hobby, Baseball, and Big Band.

Each of these dance cruises offers daily dance lessons at beginners’ and intermediate levels under the instruction of internationally acclaimed professionals. Guests will learn dances from the Tango, Mambo, Salsa, Samba, Cha Cha, and other ballroom and popular dances. This year’s instructors include Elaine Santana and Alex de Oliveira of the Axel Dance Company, and Petra and Norbert Backhausen of the Tanzschule Backhausen.

These dance cruises feature lessons with professional dancers in the ship lounges or on deck, competitions and talent shows, costumed with special themed nights (Carnival Party, Super 60s and 70s Revival, Tropical Dance Night, and Tango Night).

Certificates are awarded to all participants with prizes for competition winners. Dance classes will be held from 11 a.m. – noon, 3-4 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. onboard daily with an evening performance by all instructors.

Dance cruise dates, ships, and itineraries include:

-- MSC Musica, from Venice to Rio de Janeiro, 18-nights calling in Croatia, Malta, Spain, Madeira, Canary Islands, and Brazil. October 31; from $969 (plus GFTs);

-- MSC Orchestra, from Genoa to Santos, 17-nights calling in Spain, Portugual, Morocco, Canary Islands, and Brazil. November 11; from $1,049 (plus GFTs);

-- MSC Opera, from Venice to Santos, 18-nights calling in Greece, Malta, Spain, Morocco, Canary Islands, and Brazil. November 25; from $969 (plus GFTs);

-- MSC Lirica, from Buenos Aires to Genoa, 21-nights calling in Brazil, Canary Islands, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. March 12, 2011; plus $1,319 (plus GFTs).

An array of seven-night Baila Conmigo dance cruises are scheduled from December to February on MSC Opera, MSC Musica, MSC Lirica, and MSC Orchestra for sailings in South America along the coasts of Argentina and Brazil, roundtrip from Santos, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires.

MSC Cruises Adds United Arab Emirates As New Destination In 2011/1012

The MSC Lirica will be based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for her 2011-2012 winter season. The itinerary includes a full schedule of nineteen seven-night cruises from Abu Dhabi, with departures every Sunday from October 30th through to March 4th 2012 and from Dubai, with departures every Friday, from October 28 to March 9 2012.

MSC Lirica will call at the port of Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman, Al Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, the island Kingdom of Bahrain and include two unforgettable and unprecedented nights in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

-- On October 14 2011 MSC Lirica will depart from Genoa, Italy, for a 17 day-16 night maiden cruise to Abu Dhabi, to start her first ever cruise season in the United Arab Emirates. Her southbound course will take her from the Mediterranean Sea with calls in Naples, Italy, and Port Said, Egypt, through the Suez Canal to Aqaba in Jordan, Salalah and Muscat in Oman and finally to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

Arabia will say farewell to MSC Lirica five months later, on March 9th from Dubai, or on March 11th 2012 from Abu Dhabi, when she starts her northbound return cruise to Genoa in Italy. Scheduled stops are Al Fujayarah in the United Arab Emirates, Muscat and Salalah in Oman, Safaga in Egypt, Aqaba in Jordan, Port Sokhna in Egypt, through the Suez Canal to Port Said and finally to Naples and Genoa.

Oceania Cruises

Website: www.oceaniacruises.com

South Pacific Highlights Oceania Cruises’2011-12 Winter Collection

Oceania Cruises today announced its 2011-12 winter line-up of 27 exotic itineraries in Asia, South America and the Caribbean, including new sailings to ports in Hawaii, the South Pacific and Australia/New Zealand. The line’s Winter Collection includes two-for-one fares, which means ten-day cruises begin at just $1,299 per guest and include free air transportation from 20 major U.S. and Canadian gateway cities.

Winter Collection Highlights include:

-- 27 unique itineraries, 16 of which are all new

-- 33 new ports of call

-- New Hawaii and South Pacific voyages, including Tahiti, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga, American Samoa

-- A return to Australia and New Zealand

-- Diverse and distinctive voyages in Asia

-- New Dubai to Cape Town cruise showcasing Arabia and Africa

-- New Marina debuts on her first full season of voyages to the Caribbean

-- Popular Amazon River cruise to depart from New York City

-- New 16-day South America cruise roundtrip from Valparaiso offers opportunity to discover rarely visited Nazca Lines, plus Machu Picchu

-- Grand 35-day Hong Kong to Athens adventure via the Suez Canal

Princess Cruises

Website: www.princess.com

Princess Cruises Reveals 2011-12 Panama Canal Season

Princess Cruises’ ships have long offered a front-row view of the Panama Canal, and in 2011-12 the line will offer 38 cruises to this signature destination, with five different itinerary options.

The Panama Canal’s history adds to its status as a “must see” destination. The single most expensive construction project in United States history at the time, “big ditch” took more than 30 years to build at a cost of about $375 million. The Canal’s lengthy history included construction efforts by two different nations and the creation of an independent Panama. In total, Canal construction involved as many as 80,000 workers and the excavation of around 268,000,000 cubic yards of earth. Today the Canal offers passage to approximately 14,000 ships a year.

Princess passengers sailing the Canal will enjoy the amenities of two vessels specifically built for Panama Canal cruising – Coral Princess and Island Princess. The sides of these ships just clear the massive locks that use an average of 52 million gallons of water in each chamber as they eventually lift and lower vessels a total of 170 feet as they pass Princess’ unique Two-day Canal Experience, available on many longer sailings, combines a full transit of the Canal, including the Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun Locks, with a second day in Panama at Fuerte Amador. This extra day gives travelers time to explore Panama further with excursions such as riding the Panama Canal Railway, exploring a rainforest, visiting an authentic Embera Indian village or touring bustling Panama City.

Beyond the Panama Canal, these itineraries offer calls in Caribbean Islands, Mexican Riviera resort towns, and a number of intriguing ports in Central America. In Costa Rica, passengers will discover a land of tropical rain forests, lush coffee plantations and white sand coastlines set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. In San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, this scenic fishing village offers beautiful white-sand beaches and ecological richness, while the nearby city of Granada is the oldest city in Central America.

Panama Canal itineraries include:

--Panama Canal Two-Day Experience Cruises – Coral Princess and Island Princess will feature three itineraries offering Princess’ Two-Day Canal Experience – a full Panama Canal transit combined with a full day at Fuerte Amador on the Pacific side of Panama. The 14-day itinerary sails between Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles with calls at Aruba, Cartagena, and Puntarenas (Costa Rica) in addition to the Two-Day Canal Experience. A 15-day option offers an additional call in Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala). And another 15-day option sails from San Francisco to Ft. Lauderdale with calls at Cabo San Lucas, Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Cartagena, and Aruba. Sailings on these itineraries depart between September 25, 2011 and April 27, 2012. Coral Princess and Island Princess also offer longer Grand Adventures of 17, 18 and 19 days, sailing to and from Vancouver.

-- Full Panama Canal Transit Sailings – A new 14-day itinerary between Los Angeles and Ft Lauderdale, offering a full Panama Canal transit plus visits to Cabo San Lucas, San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), Cartagena and Aruba. Coral Princess offers four sailings on this route, with departures on October 25, November 8, 2011, February 28, and March 13, 2012.

-- Roundtrip Panama Canal Cruises – Island Princess will sail on this classic 10-day roundtrip itinerary from Ft. Lauderdale, which offers a partial Panama Canal transit to Gatun Lake followed by a call in Colon, plus calls in the Caribbean ports of Aruba, Cartagena, Limon (Costa Rica), and Grand Cayman or Ocho Rios. The ship offers 20 departures between October 10, 2011 and April 17, 2012.

Princess Family Cruisetours to Alaska Return for Second Season

After a popular debut last year, Princess Cruises is once again offering special Alaska cruisetours designed just for families. These unique tours incorporate a variety of features not usually included in a cruisetour package, such as the opportunity to learn about dog mushing at the Iditarod Headquarters, pan for gold, take an interactive tour of Denali National Park, and enjoy a fun campfire experience.

The 12-night family cruisetours include a seven-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise plus a five-night land tour. The land segment also features such family-friendly extras as daily breakfasts, a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and a dinner theater performance. At sea, families can also take advantage of Princess' many onboard programs especially for children, including a special Junior Ranger program in Glacier Bay National Park.

Passengers can choose to sail aboard Diamond Princess or Coral Princess, and the cruisetour land itinerary includes stays at three of Princess' own wilderness lodges -- one night at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, two nights at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and two nights at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. The tours are offered on 34 departures with both northbound (#FUN) and southbound (#WOW) itinerary options.

The following special extras are included in the 2011 season tours:

-- Daily Breakfast -- Everyone in the family can start their morning off with the most important meal of the day.

-- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center -- Wildlife appeals to all ages, and families will be able to see a variety of animals such as bears, elk, bison, moose, caribou, musk ox, coyotes and eagles with a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This non-profit organization takes in injured and orphaned animals and gives a permanent home to those that can't be returned to the wild.

-- Iditarod Headquarters with Dog Sled Ride -- En route to Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, family members will enjoy a stop at the Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla. Here travelers can learn about mushing and its importance in Alaskan culture. The center offers the opportunity to meet sled dogs and see them at work with wheeled cart rides.

-- Evening Campfire Experience (Mt. McKinley) -- An evening campfire near the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge is the perfect way for families to end the day, complete with treats such as s'mores and hot chocolate, plus unique Alaska stories and songs. Music of Denali Dinner Theater (Denali) -- This rollicking musical comedy tells the legend of the first expedition to the summit of Mt. McKinley, accompanied by a hearty, family-style meal featuring smokehouse ribs and Alaska salmon.

-- Experience Denali with Alaska Geographic Tour (Denali) -- A more intimate tour of Denali National Park, this special excursion includes a variety of interactive experiences, including an enhanced view of the Denali ecosystem and current research taking place. The narrated bus tour takes guests 15 miles into the park to a beautiful river valley where they embark on a short walk to the historic Savage River Camp, where they can participate in a number of hands-on activities.

-- Sourdough Expedition Breakfast (Denali) -- While fueling up for the day with an Alaskan roadhouse-style breakfast, guests experience an unforgettable journey up Denali through breathtaking images in Laurent Dick's Climb Denali. Participants have the opportunity to meet this real mountain climber and ask questions about mountain climbing.

-- Riverboat Cruise and El Dorado Goldmine Tour (Fairbanks) -- Families can enjoy traveling on an authentic sternwheeler for a fully-narrated cruise along the Chena River and try their hands at gold panning at the El Dorado Gold Mine, where they will learn about Alaska's gold mining history.

Fares for the Alaska Family Cruisetours start at $1,648 per person for the first and second berths, and $1,246 per person for the third and fourth berth passengers.

Royal Caribbean/UK

Website: www.royalcaribbean.co.uk

Royal Caribbean Introduces Innovative Chefmakers At Sea

Royal Caribbean International is partnering with the Chefmakers Cooking Academy, a cooking school dedicated to aspiring home cooks of all ages. The partnership allows guests to try their hand at creating a series of new exciting recipes and learning new skills. The program is currently available onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Liberty of the Seas and will be offered onboard Freedom of the Seas later in the year.

Chefmakers at Sea’s hands-on classes range from $40 to $125 per person and are ideal for kitchen novices’ right through to the experienced home cook. Guests can choose from over a dozen Chefmakers at Sea classes that are taught in the actual galleys of the ship. Programs range from Knife Skills, Quick & Easy Fish, and All About Chicken, to Asian Persuasion, New American Cuisine, and Surf & Turf. Successfully piloted aboard Mariner of the Seas, the three-hour programs are open to guests 18 and over.

Children, aged four to 11, can join in with a one-hour “Kids with Kids Baking” class. The future chefs will have fun preparing sweet treats, like mini-puff pastry turnovers, whilst learning about chemistry and kitchen hygiene along the way.

Other classes include: Small Bites; Quick & Easy Pasta; Tamales; Lazy Day Brunch; California Cuisine; and Cooking Around the World. In addition, Chefmakers at Sea offers a series of festive classes, such as: Pumpkin Carving; Gingerbread House Decorating; and Entertaining for New Years.

Participants will receive their very own Chefmakers apron and recipe cards for all menu items prepared, as well as complimentary wine based on class selection. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase the high quality kitchenware and utensils that they learn to use in the classes.

Guests may register and learn about the specific classes being offered online using the Chefmakers pre-board reservation system. Private Chefmakers at Sea programs will also soon be available for various corporate groups offering a unique team building experience.

Travel professionals should go to www.cruisingpower.co.uk.

Seabourn (Yachts of)

Website: www.seabourn.com

New Seabourn Quest To Be Delivered In May 2011

Construction of The Yachts of Seabourn’s third new ultra-luxury yacht, Seabourn Quest, is progressing well, and the company expects to take delivery of the vessel several weeks earlier than anticipated in May 2011. Following the delivery, Seabourn will operate two pre-inaugural cruises: a three-day round trip voyage from Monte Carlo starting from $1,299 per person, and an eight-day cruise from Monte Carlo to Barcelona beginning from $3,499 per person. Both voyages can be combined for an 11-day sailing starting from $4,549 per person.

The two sailings will offer travelers opportunities to have a sneak peek at the company’s newest yacht prior to its Maiden Voyage. The three-day pre-inaugural voyage will sail June 9 to 12, and call at Livorno, Italy, the port for Florence, Pisa, Lucca and other Tuscan highlights, as well as the picturesque port of Bonifacio, on the French island of Corsica. That will be followed by an eight-day cruise, June 12 to 20, visiting Portofino, Italy; Cannes, Ile de Porquerolles and Port-Vendres, France; and Valencia, Spain.

Seabourn Quest’s official debut will be June 20, with a gala naming ceremony featuring fireworks over the city of Barcelona, and a 14-day Maiden Voyage to Athens. Maiden Voyage guests will participate in the festive ceremony, and their names will be engraved on the commemorative onboard Maiden Voyage plaque to honor them. They will also mingle with Seabourn’s President and CEO Pamela C. Conover, who will be onboard and joining guests in a number of special gala events and activities throughout the cruise.

Seabourn Quest’s maiden season will include seven-day Eastern Mediterranean cruises, operating alternately between Athens and Istanbul, and Venice and Athens, as well as a seven-day Black Sea voyage. On January 5, 2012, Seabourn Quest begins a 109-day World Cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Venice on a unique eastbound course via South America, South Africa, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean.

New Overland Seabourn Journeys Highlight 2011 Seabourn Sojourn World Cruise

The Yachts of Seabourn is offering seven new optional Seabourn Journeys to guests aboard Seabourn Sojourn during its 111-day Maiden World Cruise in 2011. The adventurous, multi-day packages will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, landmark monuments and more, such as India’s famous Taj Mahal and the magnificent Leshan Gian Buddha in China. These tours will provide an in-depth travel experience of each destination and will enhance guests’ memories as they travel around the world. All Seabourn Journeys packages are fully escorted, and include deluxe hotel accommodations, transportation, some meals and guided tours.

Highlights of the 2011 World Cruise Seabourn Journeys include:

-- Spectacular Queenstown and Mt. Cook National Park - January 25 – January 28, 2011; Auckland to Akaroa, New Zealand. This three-night overland adventure introduces guests to the spectacular sights of UNESCO’s Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Site and Mount Cook National Park, where they will discover the scenic wonderland of the majestic Southern Alps, tranquil lakes and imposing glaciers. Guests will fly to the “adventure capital of the world,” Queenstown, and experience an exciting jet boat excursion through the impressive Shotover Gorge. $2,900 per guest/double occupancy.

-- Barossa Vintages and Australia’s Red Center - February 10 – February 14, 2011; Adelaide to Freemantle, Australia. Oenophiles who are fans of big, bold, full-bodied shirazes and cabernet sauvignons will enjoy a one-night trip to Barossa Valley, the jewel of Australia's wine country. Then it’s on to the Outback, where guests will spend two nights in a luxury tent at an eco-sensitive wilderness camp and witness the beautiful, vibrant hues of the rising and setting sun reflecting on Uluru (Ayers Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will also feast on sumptuous outback fare and discover the wonders of the southern night sky. $6,500 per guest/double occupancy.

-- Chengdu’s Giant Panda Discovery - February 25 – March 1, 2011; Hong Kong, China to Cai Lan, Vietnam. On this exclusive four-night Seabourn Overland Journey, guests will visit the Chengdu Panda Base to see giant pandas, a Chinese national treasure and beloved worldwide. Chengdu is home to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stone Buddha in the world. Following Chengdu, guests will spend a day in Hanoi, Vietnam, before re-joining Sojourn in Cai Lan. $3,500 per guest/double occupancy.

-- The Khmer Temples of Angkor - March 5 – March 7, 2011; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to Sihanoukville, Cambodia. During this two-night journey, guests will travel to Cambodia to explore the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor, a sprawling, ornately carved complex of temples, towers and Hindu paintings that is unquestionably one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. $1,650 per guest/double occupancy.

-- Chiang Rai and the Hill Tribes of Thailand - March 9 – March 12, 2011; Laem Chabang, Thailand to Singapore. Travelers will explore the Golden Triangle, a picture-perfect vision of verdant Thai rice terraces and orchid-clad hillsides where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet. The area is ripe with ancient temples, ruins, art and local cultures, and guests will mingle with the local tribes to learn their way of life in this alluring region during this three-night excursion. $3,500 per guest/double occupancy.

-- Monumental Love: The Taj Mahal - March 19 – March 22, 2011; Cochin to Mumbai, India. Built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is the greatest monument to love the world has ever known. This two-night excursion will visit Agra, the Red Fort and the exquisite Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. $5,000 per guest/double occupancy.

-- Luxor and the Valley of the Kings - April 4 – April 5, 2011; Safaga, Egypt. From the Temple of Luxor in ancient Thebes to the Valley of the Kings, guests will survey most of Egypt’s desert UNESCO World Heritage Site during this overnight tour. The magnificent Luxor and Karnak Temples are explored and guests journey across the Nile River to the Necropolis, where among long-hidden tombs, guests will marvel at the sophisticated sculpture, colorful depictions of everyday life and the pantheon of gods and goddesses worshipped by the early Egyptians. $499 per guest/double occupancy.

On Jan. 5, 2011, Seabourn Sojourn will embark on a world cruise from Los Angeles to London, visiting 49 ports via the South Pacific, New Zealand, around Western Australia, Indonesia and Southeast Asia, India, Arabia and the Mediterranean. Fares for the full 111-day world cruise begin at $49,995 per person, based on double occupancy, and include many valuable bonus benefits and amenities, such as a pre-cruise Bon Voyage event with dinner and luxury overnight in Los Angeles, numerous special shoreside events and exclusive complimentary shore excursions, Personal Valet luggage shipping service, and shipboard credits of $2,500 per guest. Gala onboard celebrations and special gifts will also be offered to guests during the voyage.

For travelers who cannot sail on the entire world cruise, shorter segments from 16 to 69 days are available, several of which also offer value-added benefits. Segments start from $4,499 per person.

SeaDream Yacht Club

Website: www.seadream.com

Year End Holiday Oportunities With Seadream Yacht Club

SeaDream Yacht Club still has some limited space available on the upcoming year-end holiday voyages in the Caribbean and a few other sailings in November and December.

The three available holiday voyages are on SeaDream I or SeaDream II, the company’s twin luxury mega-yacht cruisers. Fares start at USD $2,999 or euros 2,307 per person. These holiday sailings are between San Juan and St. Thomas and San Juan St. Maarten. They are seven-day sailings. All three sailings feature an overnight stays at St. Bart’s, the exclusive and highly popular island destination in the French West Indies. Late evening stays in several other ports of call allow for holiday shore side activities.

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.

Limited space is available and is capacity controlled and these offerings may be withdrawn at any time. Certain restrictions apply. Contact SeaDream Yacht Club at 1 800 707-4911, or a travel agent.

Variety Cruises

Website: www.varietycruises.com

Variety Cruises Offers Up to 20 Percent Off in Eastern Med

Variety Cruises is offering saving of up to 20 percent on seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean when booked by February 1. The discounts apply to a limited number of cabins on voyages departing April 1 through November 18, 2011. All cruises depart from Athens.

The “Jewels of the Cyclades” cruise on the Galileo visits Poros, Santorini, Paros, Mykonos, Kea and Sounion. The 20 percent discount is good on the following departures: April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22, April 29, July 8, July 15, July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26, October 28, November 4, November 11 and November 18.

Ten-percent discounts are available on the following departures: May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24, July 1, September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23, September 30, October 7, October 14 and October 21. An additional 10 percent low-season discount applies to April 1, April 8, April 15, October 28, November 4, November 11 and November 18. Regular fares begin at $1,890 per person.

-- The “Classical Greece” cruise explores the Aegean Islands, Crete and Continental Greece on the Harmony V. The 20 percent discount July 8, July 15, July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26, October 28 (the 10 percent low-season discount also applies to October 28). The 10 percent discount is good on May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24, July 1, September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23, September 30, October 7, October 14 and October 21. Regular fares begin at $2,590 per person.

--The Harmony G operates the “Aegean Odyssey” itinerary to the Cycladic Islands and Kusadasi, Patmos and Samos. The 20 percent discount is good on the following 2011 departure dates: April 8, April 15, April 22, April 29, July 8, July 15, July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26 and October 28. The low-season 10 percent discount applies to April 8, April 15 and October 28 cruises. The 10 percent discount is good on the following 2011 departures: May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24, July 1, September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23, September 30, October 7, October 14 and October 21. Regular fares begin at $2,390 per person.

Windstar Cruises

Website: www.windstarcruises.com

Windstar Offers 2-For-1 Cruise Fares on Seven-Day Caribbean Voyages

Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations, offers spectacular savings with 2-for-1 cruise fares on select seven-day Caribbean voyages on new bookings made now through October 31, 2010.

Windstar’s Caribbean itineraries offer guests pristine beaches, lively island culture and intimate ports of call.

-- Wind Surf’s Sea of Enchantment Voyages

Seven-day sailings depart and return to Bridgetown, Barbados and visit St. Kitts, St. Martin, St. Barts, Îles des Saintes and St. Lucia. Special 2-for-1 rates from $1,379 (brochure fare $2,759) per person, double occupancy.

November 28; December 12, 19 (Holiday), 2010; January 2, 16, 30; February 27; March 13, 27, 2011.

-- Wind Surf’s Caribbean Adventure Voyages

Seven-day sailings depart and return to Bridgetown, Barbados and visit Bequia, Grenada, Mayreau, Dominica and St. Lucia. Special 2-for-1 rates from $1,379 (brochure fare $2,759) per person, double occupancy.

December 5, 26 (New Year’s), 2010; January 9; February 20; March 6, 20, 2011.

-- Wind Spirit’s Yachtsman’s Discovery Voyages

Seven-day sailings depart and return to Marigot, St. Martin and visit St. Kitts, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke (overnight), Virgin Gorda (overnight) and St. Barts (overnight). Special 2-for-1 rates from $1,449 (brochure fare $2,899) per person, double occupancy.

December 19 (Holiday), 2010; January 8, 15, 22, 29; February 5; March 19, 26; April 2, 2011.

Windstar’s 2-for-1 Caribbean fares are valid on select departures, are capacity controlled and may be removed at any time at the discretion of Windstar. Offer is not combinable with any other promotional pricing offer. Offer is combinable with one shipboard credit, upgrade or package offer. Offer is valid on new bookings made now through October 31, 2010. Two-for-1 fares are per person, based on a 50 percent discount off brochure fares as published in the 2010/2011 Windstar Cruises Sailing Atlas and the 2011/2012 Windstar Cruises Sailing Atlas. Rates shown on www.windstarcruises.com already reflect 2-for-1 savings. Itineraries may vary slightly. Government fees and taxes additional.

Windstar Cruises Unveils 2011 Signature Collection Host Series

Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most sought-after destinations, announces its 2011 Signature Collection Host Series which offers guests the unique opportunity to cruise and learn from distinguished experts in the fields of culinary arts, wine, photography, gardening and wealth management.

Guests can taste and learn about wines from top winemakers Daniel Baron of Silver Oak Cellars; Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar and Figgins Family Wine Estates; Tor and Susan Kenward of Tor Kenward Family Wines; Bob Iantosca of Gloria Ferrer and Julia Iantosca of Lasseter Family Winery; and David Gianulias and Todd Rustman of Levendi Winery. Chef Fabio Viviani of Firenze Osteria and fan favorite of “Top Chef” season five will delight food connoisseurs with his culinary arts. Guests will discover the art of photography with celebrity and travel photographer John Russo. Garden designer Anthea Guthrie will share her passion for gardening and design tips. And, Todd Rustman will discuss the principles of wealth management.

-- British garden designer Guthrie, hosts Wind Surf’s Barbados to Barbados sailing which departs January 9, 2011, and visits the ports of Bequia, The Grenadines; St. George’s, Grenada; Mayreau, The Grenadines; Portsmouth, Dominica; and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia. Guthrie has been awarded 13 Royal Horticultural Society medals, including four gold medals, and two for best creative garden and one for best small garden. Her love of history combined with a passion for gardening, led to the creation of a garden based on the story of Ann Boleyn, a theatre garden at the world famous Chelsea Flower Show for the wife of Charles I, and a Shakespearean garden based on the play “As You Like It” at Hampton Court Palace. During a lecture, Guthrie will share her extensive gardening experiences and tips. Cruise rates start from $1,379 per person, double occupancy.

-- Tor and Susan Kenward, founders of Tor Kenward Family Wines, host Wind Surf’s Barbados to Barbados sailing which departs January 16, 2011, and visits St. Kitts, F.W.I.; St. Martin, F.W.I.; St. Barts, F.W.I.; Îles des Saintes, F.W.I; and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia. Tor Kenward’s exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays come from his 30-plus years studying the vineyards of Napa Valley. Susan Kenward has written six cookbooks including one James Beard Award winner and her recipes have also appeared in The Barefoot Contessa cookbooks. She also developed her own skin care line, Olivina Napa Valley. During the voyage the Kenward’s will lecture on wines, conduct a wine tasting and Susan Kenward will give a cooking demonstration. Cruise rates start from $1,485 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Tor Kenward Family Wines and Olivina Napa Valley, visit www.torwines.com and www.olivinanapavalley.com.

-- Photographer Russo hosts Wind Surf’s Lisbon to Barcelona sailing, departing April 17, 2011, which visits the ports of Tangier, Morocco; Málaga, Spain; Almeria, Spain; Cartagena, Spain; and Ibiza, Spain. Russo, a top celebrity photographer, has photographed Kevin Costner, Eva Longoria, John Travolta, Sophia Loren and many other top celebrities. Russo’s work has also been featured on the covers of Vogue, Elle, GQ and Esquire. In addition to photographing celebrities, he has traveled around the world photographing destinations. He just released his book “About Face,” which is a collection of portraits of today’s hottest male actors. During the sailing, he will conduct two lectures focusing on celebrity portraiture and travel photography and provide insight on how to take the best photos possible. Cruise fares start from $2,299 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Russo, visit www.johnrussophoto.com.

-- Winemakers Bob Iantosca and Julia Iantosca host Wind Surf’s Barcelona to Rome sailing departing April 24, 2011. Ports of call include Palma de Mallorca, Spain; St. Tropez, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Portofino, Italy; and Livorno, Italy. Since joining Gloria Ferrer in 1984, winemaker Bob Iantosca has created more award-winning California sparkling wines than any other single winemaker. Julia Iantosca, winemaker for Lasseter Family Winery, has developed outstanding reds and signature blends for the premium winery. Both Bob Iantosca and Julia Iantosca are passionate in creating unique wines and will share their winemaking experiences during lectures and wine tastings. Cruise fares from $2,399 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Gloria Ferrer and Lasseter Family Winery, visit www.gloriaferrer.com and www.lasseterfamilywinery.com.

-- David Gianulias and Todd Rustman, founders of Levendi Winery, host Wind Surf’s Barcelona to Rome sailing departing May 8, 2011, visiting the ports of Palma de Mallorca; St. Tropez, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Portofino, Italy; and Livorno, Italy. Levendi is a family-owned, boutique winery located in Napa Valley. The Gianulias family has a strong Greek tradition of private winemaking dating back centuries. Since 1926, Levendi has developed ultra-premium vintages. In addition to wine making, Rustman is co-founder of GR Capital Asset Management. David Gianulias and Todd Rustman will discuss their winemaking process during a lecture and conduct wine tastings. Rustman will also do a separate lecture on wealth management. Cruise fares from $2,499 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Levendi Winery and GR Capital Asset Management, visit www.levendiwinery.com and www.gr-cam.com.

-- Winemaker Daniel Baron of acclaimed Silver Oak Cellars will host Wind Surf’s Athens to Istanbul sailing departing July 16, 2011. Ports of call include Mykonos, Greece; Santoríni, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; and Kuşadasi, Turkey. Baron began his winemaking career in the vineyards of Sonoma County before traveling to France and working for legendary Château Petrus – an experience that shaped his approach to making wine. In 1982, he returned to Napa Valley and became the winemaker for Silver Oak’s celebrated wines. Baron will lecture on the philosophy behind Silver Oak wines and conduct a wine tasting during the sailing. Cruise fares start from $3,499 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Silver Oak Cellars, visit www.silveroak.com.

-- Chef Fabio Viviani hosts Wind Surf’s Athens to Rome voyage departing October 22, 2011. The cruise visits Milos, Greece; Monemvassía, Greece; Messina, Italy; Amalfi, Italy; and Ischia, Italy. Fabio is the owner of Firenze Osteria and was the “Top Chef” Season 5 Fan Favorite. Viviani began his culinary career at age 12 and then attended Italy’s Instituto Professionale per I Servizi Alberghieri in Florence, focusing on advanced Tuscan and regional cooking as well as a wide variety of specialization courses. As owner and executive chef of Firenze Osteria, Viviani brings his Tuscan dishes and Florentine flair to Southern California. Viviani is also the official spokesperson for Bertolli Olive Oil and Santa Margherita wines. During the sailing, Viviani will conduct a lecture and cooking demonstration. Cruise fares from $2,599 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Viviani, visit www.firenzeosteria.com.

-- Winemaker Chris Figgins hosts Wind Surf’s St. Martin to Barbados sailing, departing February 18, 2012, which visits St. Martin, F.W.I.; Virgin Gorda, B.V.I.; lles des Saintes, F.W.I.; Pigeon Island, St. Lucia; Bequia, The Grenadines; and Mayreau, The Grenadines. Figgins’ parents founded Walla Walla, Washington’s acclaimed Leonetti Cellar in 1977. Figgins continues the winery’s tradition of producing some the world’s most sought-after reds in small, limited productions. He recently launched FIGGINS, an estate-grown, single-vineyard wine, and Lostine Cattle Company, grass-fed beef, to extend the Figgins Family Wine Estates experience. Figgins will lecture on transforming Leonetti into an estate grown winery and is know industry-wide for constantly pushing the envelope viticulturally in his vineyards and for his intense passion for sustainable farming. During a lecture, Figgins will discuss winemaking and conduct a wine tasting. Cruise rates start from $2,549 per person, double occupancy. For more information on Leonetti Cellar and Figgins, visit www.leonetticellar.com and www.figginsfamily.com.