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Hapag-Lloyd Cruises To Bid Farewell To The MS Columbus In May 2012

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be taking its premium

ship MS Colunbus out of the fleet one year earlier than planned, in May 2012, by mutual agreement with Conti, the Munich based group of companies and owner of the ship. All cruises offered up to May 2012 will be taking place on the

Columbus as scheduled.

The ship is to be replaced in Spring 2012 by her successor the Columbus 2, under a two-year charter with Oceania Cruises. The Columbus crew will transition over to the renamed vessel.

The successor ship, Oceania Cruises’ Insignia, 2 will be welcomed to the fleet in spring 2012 and offers a passenger capacity of 698 people. “The Columbus 2 is a modern ship. She provides more diversity and comfort at a very good price/performance ratio,

represents for us an economically attractive expansion of our capacity in the

premium segment,“ said Sebastian Ahrens, Managing Director of Hapag-Lloyd

Cruises.

The Columbus will be offering her world tour 2011/2012 as planned. At the end of

that voyage on May 7, 2012 in Nice, France, the ship will depart the Hapag-Lloyd

Cruises fleet. Only two published cruises following the world tour will be

cancelled.  Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering special deals for re-booking

onto the Columbus  2 for any customers who have already booked these two cruises.

58 New Staterooms To Be Added To Norwegian Dawn

Norwegian Cruise Line will add 58 new staterooms and suites to the Norwegian Dawn while she is in drydock in May. The 28 new suites include two categories of family suites that can sleep up to six, according to NCL executives during a February 23 conference call with travel agents and press.

There will be 14 Family Suites (category SJ) measuring 408 to 452 square feet, while 10 Family Suites with Balcony (category SD) will measure 409 to 495 square feet. The family suites will be located on a high deck, near the pool, and feature a larger bathroom and more storage space. In addition four Deluxe Owner’s Suites (category SA) will be added right below the bridge, measuring 667 to 732 square feet. Thirty inside staterooms measuring 142 to 174 square feet will also be added.

With the new accommodations the current location of the Spinnaker Lounge and cinema, will be moved to a different spot on the ship.

Though the dry-dock project is in May, finishing work on the new accommodations will continue until September 16.

New Ship On The Order Book For Royal Caribbean Cruises

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. has signed a letter of intent with German shipyard Meyer Werft to build the first of a new generation of Royal Caribbean International cruise ships.  Developed under the code-name "Project Sunshine," the new vessel design incorporates new and exciting features that take advantage of the best of Royal Caribbean's experience and imagination.  The project is a result of over a year of dedicated research and development. 

The order calls for one ship to be delivered in the Fall of 2014 with an option for a second ship for Spring 2015.  The 158,000 Gross Registered Tons (GRT) new build will carry just over 4,100 guests based on double occupancy.  The estimated all-in cost per berth is about €170,000.  This all-in cost includes the yard's base contract price plus everything needed to design, operate and build the vessel, from architect fees to supervision costs and all loose inventories from computers to art and bed linens.

"Royal Caribbean has worked hard to earn a reputation of offering the most innovative ships in the cruise industry and this next generation will not disappoint," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. "While we continue our policy of keeping our newest ideas and features under wraps during the early stages of construction, I can say that I am very excited about the passion and imagination that our teams have devoted to the project.  Project Sunshine builds on the best ideas of our existing ships and adds exciting new activities and entertainment concepts.  It will offer features for everyone: from grand, spectacular spaces to small intimate settings; from active, invigorating activities to the serenity of more personal space; and from a plethora of dining alternatives to a cornucopia of opportunities for families.  I am also excited about the energy efficiency and environmental technologies which have been incorporated."

The letter of intent is subject to customary conditions being satisfactorily met. 

It’s Official! SS United States Purchased From NCL/Genting Hong Kong

In a long-anticipated milestone in the effort to save and redevelop the legendary ocean liner SS United States, the SS United States Conservancy announced at a February 1, 2011 press conference that it will purchase the nation's historic "ship of state" from its owners Norwegian Cruise Line/Genting HK. "We are one big step closer to ensuring that this great symbol of American innovation is permanently preserved," said Susan Gibbs, the Conservancy's board president, whose grandfather, William Francis Gibbs, designed the legendary liner.  "Now that we have secured title, we will accelerate our efforts to redevelop the nation's flagship as a multi-purpose waterfront destination with dynamic hotel, retail, educational and museum offerings.  To succeed, we will tap into the same "can-do" spirit and ingenuity that the ship has embodied since her first splash in 1952."

To date, New York, Philadelphia, and Miami have expressed an interest in the vessel.

Click Ships of the Past to read more about the SS United States.

Royal Caribbean, Azamara Cancel Egypt Calls from April to July

Royal Caribbean International and Azamara Club Cruises have canceled port calls to Egypt through July. Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, which departs Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, on April 18 will no longer call on Alexandria on April 24. Instead, the ship will now call on Istanbul, Turkey, on April 24 and stay overnight until 7 p.m. April 25. A similar change is in place for the Mariner’s June 4 and June 28 departures.

The Mariner of the Seas’ May 11 cruise from Civitavecchia cancelled its May 18 Alexandria call and instead will spend May 16 at sea, stay overnight in Istanbul from 7 a.m. May 17 until 7 p.m. May 18 and call on Kusadasi, Turkey, on May 19 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Brilliance of the Seas, which departs Dubai on April 21 will sail a modified itinerary. The revised itinerary will Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, United Arab Emirates; Muscat, Oman; passage of the Suez Canal; Civitavecchia and Livorno, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; and nine days at sea.

Azamara modified several cruises on the Azamara Quest. Its April 24 cruise from Dubai will no longer call on Alexandria on May 4 but instead will now spend May 4 at sea and call at Santorini, Greece, on May 5.

The Quest’s May 6 voyage from Athens cancelled May 12 overnight in Alexandria. Instead, the ship will overnight in Rhodes, Greece, from 1 p.m. May 10 until midnight May 11, spend May 12 at sea, and call on Paphos, Cyprus, on May 13 from 7 a.m. to midnight.

The cruise departing Haifa, Israel, on May 16 will no longer overnight in Alexandria May 19-20. Instead, the ship will now call on Paphos, Cyprus, on May 19 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and overnight in Rhodes from 1 p.m. May 20 until 5 p.m. May 21. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com or www.azamaraclubcruises.com.

Celebrity To Offer Champagne High Tea & Kosher Meals

Celebrity has announced its latest culinary introductions: an authentic, world-class high tea experience called “Champagne High Tea,” and industry-first premium kosher meals.

“Our Champagne High Tea is designed in the tradition of the most highly regarded afternoon tea experiences in the world,” said Celebrity’s Vice President of Culinary Operations Jacques Van Staden.

Celebrity’s Champagne High Tea takes place once on every seven-night sailing, and at least twice on an eight-night or longer cruise. Held in Celebrity’s specialty restaurants, amidst live music performed by a string quartet, the event’s selections include premium Forte’ teas; Lavazza coffees, including espressos, lattes and cappuccino; savory sandwiches and desserts – including pastries, scones, truffles and pate de fruit – using Wedgewood china and Riedel Crystal. There’s a cover charge of $25 per person that includes one class of champagne.

For guests interested in kosher meals, Celebrity has introduced another industry first: premium kosher meals, offered as an option amidst the brand’s vast array of other dining selections, for a fee. Kosher wines and champagne also are available. All food selections are Glatt Kosher certified and made from scratch in kosher kitchens under the strict supervision of the O.U. and USDA.

Crystal Serenity To Undergo Major Redesign in May

This spring, Crystal will be spending some $25 million to keep its largest ship, Crystal Serenity, on the cutting edge of luxury style.

More than 400 expert technicians flown from around the world, working round the clock for just 14 days, are scheduled for the massive redesign of her 531 Deluxe Staterooms, Penthouses and Penthouses Suites; retail centers; expansive outdoor pool deck and other design projects during a May 8 to 22 dry dock at Hamburg's Blohm + Voss shipyard.

All of Crystal Serenity's Deluxe Outside Staterooms, Penthouses, and Penthouse Suites will sport new, floor-to-ceiling tufted headboards, bedside cabinets, wallpaper, sofas, curtains, pillows, and custom carpets in contemporary lines and classic stone, silk, velvet, leather, and crisp linen textures. New modern lighting features and electronic "do not disturb" and doorbell system will allow guests greater personalization of their home-away-from-home.

Serenity's retail shops will receive a similar, sophisticated metamorphosis. The Facets fine jewelry store will mirror a jewelry box, with mother-of-pearl feature wall, beveled chrome vitrines, and a new, private sales area. The Apropos boutique will become three-shops-in-one, with a flagship Christian Dior cosmetic/skincare area showcased amongst rich Zebrano wood and herringbone rosewood, arresting black-plum-magenta carpeting, and tufted leather seating.

New Chic Pool Deck

Inspired by Crystal Symphony's recent transformation, the Seahorse Pool teak deck will be refashioned with circular pod beds, plush sofa groups, and lounge chairs in a kaleidoscope of lime green, azure, and mango.

New Lighting and Furniture

The corridors throughout the ship will be transformed with new, custom carpeting, inspiring artwork, and mood lighting. Dramatic new lighting will also be installed in the Crystal Dining Room, as will new furniture on all stateroom verandahs.

Following the dry dock, Crystal Serenity will embark on a series of Baltic, North Cape and British Isles cruises before heading to the Mediterranean for late summer and fall cruise series, where guests cannot only enjoy the resort's new look but exceptional value with verandah savings and a new fall fare sale.

Celebrity Cruises To Enhance Guest Experiences For Celebrity Eclipse

Celebrity Cruises has today announced details of new developments due to be made this year to the Southampton-based Celebrity Eclipse in order to further enhance guest experience, including the introduction of a Champagne Royal Tea Experience, a full range of British beers (from Boddingtons to Guinness) and interactive iPad restaurant menus.

Celebrity Eclipse, the only ship in the Celebrity fleet to be fully based out of the UK for the summer, has also confirmed beverage charges on board will be inclusive of service charge; a first for any ship within Celebrity Cruises’ fleet.

Beer offerings on board will also be extended to include a full range of British brands, including Fuller’s London Pride, Old Speckled Hen, Boddingtons, Guinness, Murphy’s Stout and Newcastle Brown Ale.

 Celebrity Eclipse will also be able to boast newly introduced Champagne High Royal Experience where guests will be able to experience a truly world class white glove tea service, with Tea Forte loose teas served in custom made Wedgwood Bone China with elegant savories and pastry accompaniments set to calming music delivered courtesy of a string quartet. The Champagne Royal Tea Experience will be available for just $25USD per person.

 Additional new service benefits for 2011 include coffee available with tea in staterooms, national British newspapers available via iPads and increased guest entertainer line-ups and guest speakers during each sailing.

 The innovative use of iPads as part of the guest experience will be developed further with the introduction of interactive iPad menus in Qsine with video player options, touch-screen wine lists available to explore, interactive dinner menus and even an application which allows the guest to build their own cocktail.

The enhancements were confirmed as part of a broader commitment to further developing the guest experience across the entire Celebrity Cruises fleet announced this month by Celebrity Cruises’ President & CEO Dan Hanrahan speaking in London.

Celebrity Summit To Sail Into 2012 With Solstice-Class Enhancements

Celebrity Cruises has announced that Celebrity Summit is set to become the third ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium Class fleet to complete a significant “Solsticizing,” in January 2012. “Solsticizing” is the term the line coined for its initiative to complement its Milllennium Class ships’ style and design with some of the most popular venues on the widely heralded Solstice Class ships.

Among the new additions to Celebrity Summit in 2012 will be the coveted AquaClass, Celebrity Cruises’ soothing, spa-inspired veranda-category accommodations, paired with the Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, “Blu,” offered exclusively for AquaClass guests.

Another Celebrity exclusive – “Qsine,” the novel restaurant introduced on Celebrity Eclipse last year, and set to debut on Celebrity Infinity following the ship’s revitalization in December 2011 – will be presented on Celebrity Summit, too. Qsine, the first at sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPadTM, features playful, delectable options including a vertical selection of savory tapas and mezze served individually in custom-made frames, a trio of chilled soups delivered shot-style, and spring rolls served in springs. All are described in detail on the iPad-housed menu and wine list, which offers a full scan of wine labels, an interactive cocktail menu, and the ability for guests to enter tasting notes and e-mail their favorite wine selections.

Restyled staterooms, with new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding and the addition of new oceanview and inside staterooms are also on the agenda.

As previously announced, sister ship Celebrity Infinity will emerge from a scheduled dry-dock period in December  with all the Solstice-inspired enhancements planned for Celebrity Summit.

Adventure Canada Takes Major Stake In Cruise North Expeditions

Cruise North Expeditions, a subsidiary of the Inuit-owned Makivik Corporation, has announced its new partnership with Adventure Canada that will continue to offer polar cruises with the cultural content and Inuit staffing that has become a trademark of Cruise North Expeditions.

In 2011, Cruise North Expeditions departures will be merged with Adventure Canada’s Clipper Adventurer schedule, including dedicated CNE programming. The Clipper Adventurer, a sister ship of Lyubov Orlova has benefited from extensive renovation and offers an ideal blend of safety, comfort and functionality that makes it a leader in the field. Cruise North passengers will enjoy enhanced comfort and programming through the new joint venture.

Beginning in 2012, Adventure Canada and Cruise North Expeditions will each continue their traditional offerings of dedicated sailings with Inuit staff, itineraries and programs specially designed to bring benefit and opportunity to the people who call the Arctic home.

Cruise North Expeditions was founded in 2005 by the Makivik Corporation of Quebec, a highly successful investment corporation born of the first modern-day Aboriginal land claim settlement agreement in Canada (the JBNQA of 1975). Makivik also owns the well-respected First Air and Air Inuit. Website: http://www.cruisenorthexpeditions.com  

Adventure Canada is an award-winning tour operator based in Mississauga, Ontario that has been providing comfortable and educational voyages to the Arctic, and the world, since 1988.

Carnival Cruise Lines Reports Record Booking Week In February

Carnival Cruise Lines set a one-week reservations record booking 165,308 guests between Feb. 7-13, 2011, eclipsing the previous one-week reservations record set nearly four years ago.      Bookings were at unprecedented levels across the line’s fleet, which

operates three- to 16-day voyages from a wide range of convenient North American

homeports as well as European cruises.

Carnival President and CEO Gerry Cahill noted that while the economy is

improving, consumers are still seeking value – one of several factors spurring

the record reservations activity.  He cited strong travel agent support and

targeted marketing and sales initiatives such as the company’s national “Didja

Ever” TV and social media campaign, and a “72-Hour Sale” offering complimentary

upgrades. “This activity reaffirms that even in today’s economic climate, consumers still want to have fun and view their vacations as an important part of their lives,” said Cahill.

Disney Lays Keel for New Fantasy at German Shipyard

Disney Cruise Line on February 11 celebrated the keel-laying of the Disney Fantasy at the Meyer Werft shipyard. Disney Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream, which entered service on Jan. 26. The keel-laying ceremony is a milestone in the shipbuilding process when the first block, or section of the ship, is lowered into the building dock and a coin is placed under the keel for good fortune. Placing the coin was Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line, who was assisted by Minnie Mouse.

The Disney Fantasy will offer many of the innovations that the Disney Dream features, including AquaDuck, a water coaster. At the same time, the Disney Fantasy will feature a few new design elements and guest experiences. The 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy will sail week-long Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral with its maiden voyage scheduled for March 31, 2012..

Crystal Publishes Industry’s First Spanish-language Atlas

Crystal’s new, 211-page, full Spanish-language Atlas outlining its entire 2011 cruise line-up, is now available. More than 400 million Spanish-speaking people around the world can fully access itineraries, pricing, and complete information about the world’s most luxurious cruise line’s offerings for this year. “With a growing marketplace of 23 countries in the world for whom Spanish is the primary language, we’re making it easier for native speakers to understand all of the nuances of a Crystal adventure,” says Director of International Sales Karen Mann.  “Crystal prides itself on being the ultimate service-oriented cruise line on the planet.  The new Atlas demonstrates the continued commitment and support that Crystal has to Spanish-speaking countries and millions of Spanish-speaking travelers worldwide.”

MSC Cruises Announces Partnership with AC Milan Soccer Club

MSC Cruises, recently announced a major three-year partnership agreement with AC Milan Soccer Club, one of the world’s most successful soccer teams. The agreement, which renews and upgrades an existing long-term arrangement between the

organizations, is designed to mutually promote and develop awareness and exposure for both brands domestically and internationally.

Among the extensive schedule of events and initiatives included in the sponsorship

announcement is a unique cruise aboard the flagship MSC Splendida, which will be entirely dedicated to AC Milan supporters. The inaugural “Crociera Rossonera” named after the colors of the team, takes place from June 5- to 13, 2011 and will host a number of AC Milan players as well as feature tournaments, special training workshops for young fans, and offer a range of memorable entertainment activities.

Princess Cruises Ships to Broadcast Historic Royal Wedding In April

The highly anticipated Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton will be televised live on Princess ships on April 29.  Passengers will be able to follow along with full coverage of the pomp and majesty of the historic wedding through BBC World’s broadcast of the event.

Not only can passengers follow along as the future princess walks down the aisle, but they’ll enjoy viewing parties on board as they watch the most extensive coverage of this royal event.  BBC is the official wedding broadcaster and has exclusive access inside Westminster Abbey during the ceremony.

The onboard viewing parties will add a celebratory flair to the event with British-style refreshments and special royal-themed cocktails.  Passengers can also test their knowledge with royal wedding trivia competitions and participate in a William and Kate look-alike contest. “As this is the first British royal wedding in years we know there will be wide interest among our passengers,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.  “We at Princess also feel a connection with Prince William because his mother, Princess Diana, christened our original Royal Princess back in 1984.”

Royal Wedding broadcasts are planned for all ships in the Princess fleet, subject to satellite availability.  In some time zones the broadcast may be delayed for viewing at a convenient hour.

Royal Caribbean Kicks Off New Ad Campaign With Cold Weather Photo Contest

To the winter weary, Royal Caribbean International is lending a forum to vent to…Facebook.  As part of a new ad campaign that juxtaposes the doldrums of February (dressing in layers; drafty windows; slippery sidewalks) to the pleasures of a Royal Caribbean cruise (wearing a wet suit; enjoying a warm breeze in one’s stateroom; hanging ten on the Flowrider, surf simulator), the global cruise line launched an online contest this week, whereby consumers are invited to submit their coldest, most grueling winter weather photos for the chance to leave it all behind and win a Royal Caribbean cruise to the balmy Caribbean.

 Through March 10, consumers can visit Royal Caribbean’s official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/royalcaribbean , and submit a photo that best depicts their worst winter experiences.  There will be four entry periods: Feb. 11-17; Feb. 18-24; Feb. 25-March 3; and March 4-10.  After each entry period, the top 25 most illustrative entries will be selected by a panel of judges and offered to the Facebook community to vote on.  Entrants whose photos have been advanced to the top 25 are encouraged to rally their social networks, as the photos that garner the most “likes” over a one-week voting period will win a 7-night Caribbean cruise for two.  One winning photo will be chosen for each entry/voting period.   To enter, or for official rules, please visit www.facebook.com/royalcaribbean.

Possible New Ship Order For Regent Seven Seas?

There’s talk that Regent Seven Seas Cruises may place an order for a new ship in the near future. Frank del Rio, chairman of Prestige Cruise Holdings (Regent's parent company) said Prestige has been discussing a newbuild for Regent but would not place the order until "the time is right."

Del Rio made his comments during a preview sailing earlier this month on Oceania Cruises' new ship, the Marina. Oceania Cruises is also owned by Prestige Cruise Holdings.

Regent’s last new ship, the Seven Seas Voyager, was delivered in 2003. "Once we know we can fill the ships we have, we will order more," he said. "We’ve begun thinking about Regent’s expansion."

Del Rio said that Prestige is in a very strong financial position to order more ships.

Orion II Refurbishment Scheduled For April 2011

ALMACO has been awarded a contract by Orion Expedition Cruises to perform an upgrade of public spaces, passenger suites and outdoor areas on their new vessel, the Orion II.

Orion II is a sister ship to Noble Caledonia’s Island Sky which ALMACO completed a refurbishment project on in 2010. Orion Expedition Cruises selected ALMACO due to their experience with this size and type of vessel.

Built as a yacht-like expedition cruise ship by Cantieri Navale Ferrari of Italy in 1991, after a number of years as a private yacht the vessel underwent an extensive technical refit. The planned refurbishment, to be done during a scheduled dry dock during April 2011 will bring her into the Orion style, and she will thereafter be renamed Orion II.

The works will include a combination of refurbishment and upgrading of soft-furnishings across the vessel, including all fifty passenger suites and bathrooms, the lobby, main lounge, dining room, library, and public bathrooms.

Two Queens Rendezvous In Long Beach Harbor On March 3

On March 3, maritime history will be made, once again in Long Beach Harbor, when Queen Victoria and Queen Mary meet for the first time during a Cunard Royal Rendezvous.  At approximately 6:00pm, Queen Victoria will sail into Long Beach Harbor to meet Queen Mary, and the two ships will exchange whistle salutes amidst a sparkling fireworks display.  Spectators can view the two ships together for approximately 30 minutes before Queen Victoria continues on her Panama Canal Adventure to Ft. Lauderdale.

This rendezvous marks only the second time in Cunard’s venerable history that a modern Queen has visited her docked sister ship; the very first-ever rendezvous was in February 2006 when, on the occasion of her maiden call to Los Angles, flagship Queen Mary 2 met her namesake, garnering international attention. This historic event also signals the celebration of a significant milestone:  the upcoming 75th anniversary of Queen Mary’s maiden voyage from Southampton, England (27 May 1936).

The best viewing location is on the Promenade deck of the docked Queen Mary, at the aft (back) of the ship.

Queen Mary will offer free admission for guests to board the ship to experience her attractions, including:

Tours, including Behind-the-Scenes, WWII, Haunted Encounters, Twilight Historical and the Ghosts & Legends show, among others (All tours sold separately.)

Experience vast views of the Harbor from the Observation Bar, the ship’s original first class cocktail lounge, and enjoy live entertainment until 7:00 p.m.

Earlier that day, Queen Victoria makes the last of four visits to the Port of Los Angeles as part of her debut Americas Season, which continues through late March and features several transits through the Panama Canal, two roundtrip voyages to Hawaii, and one Getaway voyage to Mexico.  Queen Victoria returns to the West Coast again in early 2012.

Louis Cruise Ships To Switch To Maltese Registry?

According to recent press reports, Louis Cruises is considering switching from the Greek flag to a Maltese one for its ships. The line, reportedly made the decision following a public standoff concerning pension fund contributions, which threatens to cost the jobs of 350 crew. Reportedly it has filed an application for Maltese registry for Louis Cristal and the. A third ship the Louis Emerald may also switch. A fourth ship, the Louis Majesty already flies the Maltese flag. From a financial perspective the switch to the Maltese flag is calculated to offer savings of about €300,000 per month for each ship.

HAL Promotions Announced

As part of its corporate reorganization following the relocation of Seabourn to Seattle, Holland America Line has announced two promotions:

--Paul Grigsby to senior director of revenue planning. An 11-year veteran of Holland America Line, Grigsby joined the company in 2000 as senior pricing manager and was promoted to director in 2004. His prior experience includes market research analyst at Totem Ocean Trailer Express.

--Cyril Tatar to Director, Seabourn Technical Operations. As part of his new responsibilities, Tatar will oversee the completion of construction on the Seabourn Quest, scheduled for delivery in May.  He reports to Dan Grausz, executive vice president, fleet operations for Holland America Line and Seabourn.

New Website Launched For Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services

Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, an experienced global business offering first class ground handling and port agency services to the Ocean and river cruise industry, has launched a new website, www.intercruises.com. For cruise lines the website includes business, services and contact information, enabling greater overall accessibility to the Intercruises team and details regarding their operations.

Cruise lines can obtain detailed information about Intercruises? regional operations, with www.intercruises.com  featuring interactive maps, including individual ports, for every country in which they operate. A breakdown of each service area, including Turnaround, Shore Excursions, Port Agency and Hotels, identifies the advantages of implementing an integrated port agency and ground handling operation.

A careers section provides interested candidates with accurate contact details, segmented by location and job function. And there is a dedicated section for press that will feature upated news releases and images.

Costa to Use Grand Voyager from Iberocruceros for Winter 2011/2012

Costa Crociere will build up in the Red Sea in 2012, with three ships deployed, according to a statement from the line. The Costa Allegra will be joined by Iberocruceros’ Grand Voyager from December 2011 through March 2012, and then the Costa Marina will sail in the region from March through November 2012.

The Grand Voyager will get the trademark Costa “C” on its  funnel, which will be painted yellow and will “have Costa personnel on board and will offer the same distinctive Italian-style service excellence found on other Costa cruises.”

The Grand Voyager will return to the IberoCruceros fleet in March 2012. Ibercruceros is managed by Costa and is a subsidiary of Carnival Corp.

CVC Confirms Charter of Ocean Dream for 2011/2012

Brazilian tour operator CVC has announced it will charter Pullmantur’s Ocean Dream next winter, 2011/2012, from November through March. The Ocean Dream is currently sailing week-long Caribbean/South America voyages, embarking passengers in Cartagena, Colon and La Guaira and has published itineraries through the end of December 2011, which may change.

Founded in 1972, CVC is headquartered in Santo André, Brazil. It is the largest tour operator in Latin America with 900 employees selling travel packages to more than 2 million passengers a year. This month, The Carlyle Group announced it had purchased a major stake in the company. According to a Washington Post  article, the US-based private equity giant paid $250 million for a 63.6 percent stake in CVC Brasil Operadora e Agência de Viagens, according to a source familiar with the transaction who was not authorized to speak about the finances of the deal. CVC's chairman, Guilherme Paulus, will retain a significant minority equity stake in the company.

Hebridean Island Cruises Opens North American Office

Hebridean Island Cruises, serving the ultra-luxury small ship cruising market, has launched its North American presence with offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and a new North American website (www.hebrideancruises.com ).

Carrying only 50 guests with a passenger to crew ratio of close to one-to-one, Hebridean Island Cruises’ Hebridean Princess (2,100 gross tons) offers an exclusive number of guests the highest standards of luxury cruise ship accommodations together with a level of service from an almost forgotten era.

Major Renovations Scheduled For Grand Princess This Spring

The most significant transformation ever of a Princess Cruises ship will occur this spring aboard Grand Princess.  During a 24-day makeover the ship, which was the prototype for the line’s Grand Class vessels, will undergo a remarkable renovation to receive many of Princess’ trademark features introduced since the ship’s 1998 debut including the signature Piazza atrium.  Several new features will be also be added including a unique tea lounge and library called Leaves; and Alfredo’s, a full-service pizzeria.

A brand new nightclub called One5, inspired by its deck location, will be created on the top deck of the ship, replacing its iconic Skywalker Nightclub, which has given the ship its distinctive profile.  Skywalkers will be removed from its 18th deck perch, with its replacement located on deck 15.  This change will significantly improve the operational performance of the ship, including greater fuel efficiency. “This is the largest makeover we’ve ever undertaken for any of our ships,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “When Grand Princess was launched she was the most innovative ship at sea, and now we’re adding some of the later innovations we introduced on subsequent ships.”

The changes will be made during a drydock from April 11 to May 4 at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas.

NCL Reports Earnings For 4^th Quarter 2010 And Full Year

Norwegian Cruise Line reported results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2010. Norwegian continued demonstrating improved financial performance in 2010 with strong increases in EBITDA, Net Yield and Net Revenue. EBITDA improved 23,6% to $400,4 million, setting a Company record. “I am extremely pleased with our results in 2010, especially after successfully navigating through the challenging economic environment of late 2008 and 2009,” said Kevin Sheehan, president and chief executive officer. “Improved ticket pricing and onboard spending, along with the benefits of our strategic initiatives, combined to drive Norwegian’s record results in 2010, setting up the year as the most successful in the Company’s history. Not only did we set an EBITDA record for a full year, it was also the fourth consecutive year of double-digit EBITDA growth.”

Company milestones for the year included the successful introduction of the Company’s largest and most innovative vessel to date, Norwegian Epic, to enthusiastic reviews from the travel media and the cruising public. Norwegian Epic has since settled into her seven-night alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries and will reposition to Europe for an extended summer season. The Company announced in the fourth quarter that it would expand its purpose-built Freestyle Cruising fleet by contracting for two 4.000-berth ships for delivery in spring 2013 and 2014. Said Sheehan, “Every team member at Norwegian has worked diligently over the last three years to generate consistently improving results and put the Company on firm financial footing. We now move ahead with the next chapter of Norwegian’s story of growth and innovation. These two new ships will take the best aspects of our current fleet along with new elements to create the innovative vacations that our guests have come to expect from Norwegian.”

Full Year Results

EBITDA for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 increased 23,6% to $400,4 million from $324,1 million in 2009 (Adjusted EBITDA was $404,7 million in 2010 compared to $332,5 million in 2009). Net Revenue increased to $1,5 billion from $1,3 billion as a result of a 7,7% increase in Net Yield coupled with a 4,0% increase in Capacity Days. The improvement in Net Yield came as a result of both improved ticket pricing and onboard and other revenue per Capacity Day. The growth in Capacity Days was the result of the addition of Norwegian Epic to the fleet in June 2010 and was partially offset by the departure of Norwegian Majesty from the fleet in October 2009. Occupancy percentage in 2010, which included the planned phase-in period for Norwegian Epic, was 108,7% versus 109,4% in the prior year.

Net Cruise Cost per Capacity Day increased 4,2% primarily due to a 28,3% increase in the average cost of fuel to $490 per metric ton in 2010 from $382 per metric ton in 2009. Excluding fuel expense, Net Cruise Cost per Capacity Day was essentially flat versus prior year.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased to $173,8 million for the year compared to $115,4 million in 2009 due to an increase in borrowings related to the addition of Norwegian Epic and higher average interest rates. Other income (expense) was $(34,0) million in 2010 versus income of $10,4 million in 2009 primarily due to a non-recurring charge of $33,1 million related to foreign exchange contracts associated with the financing of Norwegian Epic in 2010 compared to gains from fuel derivatives in 2009.

Net income for the year, including the impact of the aforementioned loss on foreign exchange contracts was $22,6 million on revenue of $2,0 billion versus net income of $67,2 million on revenue of $1,9 billion in 2009.

Fourth Quarter Results

EBITDA for the fourth quarter of 2010 increased 69,7% to $63,4 million from $37,4 million in 2009 (Adjusted EBITDA was $64,3 million in 2010 and $41,6 million in 2009). Net Revenue increased 23,7% to $355,7 million from $287,6 million in 2009 driven by a 7,0% improvement in Net Yield and a 15,6% increase in Capacity Days. The improvement in Net Yield was a result of improved ticket pricing as well as improved onboard and other revenue per Capacity Day. Capacity Days increased due to the addition of Norwegian Epic to the fleet. Occupancy percentage for the quarter was 104,6% versus 106,0% in 2009.

Net Cruise Cost per Capacity Day in the quarter increased 1,0% over prior year. An increase in Other Cruise Operating Expense per Capacity Day, together with an increase in the average cost of fuel to $486 per metric ton from $467 per metric ton in 2009 were offset by lower general and administrative, payroll, and food expense per Capacity Day.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased to $54,7 million for the quarter compared to $37,5 million in 2009 due to an increase in borrowings related to the addition of Norwegian Epic and higher average interest rates. Taking into account the higher interest expense, net loss for the fourth quarter of 2010 was flat to prior year at $39,3 million compared to $39,0 million in 2009.

NCL Opens New Marina And Dining Facility At Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that it has completed the first phase of enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, the line's 250-acre private island in the Bahamas. On Thursday, February 3, the company opened the new marina and dining facility on the island, representing a significant milestone in the more than $20 million enhancement project currently underway. Norwegian Sky's 2,000 guests were the first to experience the opening of the marina basin with four docks for the island's tenders and the new 8,500 square foot dining facility, complete with two bars and four picnic pavilions.

"Both the new marina and the dining facility greatly enhance the guest experience on Great Stirrup Cay which is our second busiest port of call this year," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's president and CEO. "By moving the tenders' arrival to the marina and away from the beach, we have now opened up a great expanse of beachfront for our guests to enjoy and relax. We've also built a new large dining facility that is similar to the action station restaurants we have on board our Freestyle Cruising ships."

The marina is approximately 12 feet deep at low water and is home to the island's four tenders. It took more than eight months to excavate the basin and the entrance channel. The dining facility includes a central pizza making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads. There are two full bars on either side of the facility for added convenience. The four pavilions, each more than 1800 square feet, offer picnic tables with a total seating capacity for more than 500 guests.

 Enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay have been underway since January of 2010 and will continue through the end of this year. Several new island activities have been added since the project began including more than 16 wave runners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. The second phase of enhancements includes an arrival/departure pavilion, additional bar facilities; several comfort stations; a band stand; cruise program activity area; private beachfront cabanas; a kid's play area; straw market; and beach volleyball courts. The beachfront will continue to be expanded on the island's west end.

 Norwegian has owned the island since 1977 when it became the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its guests. Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Pearl regularly call on Great Stirrup Cay throughout the year.