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May 26, 2009

Mein Schiff Begins Her Season of Baltic Cruises

TUI’s Mein Schiff seen in Hamburg port prior to her naming on May 15. Mein Schiff (My Ship), the first ship in the new TUI Cruises fleet, is a significant step for the joint venture between Royal Caribbean Cruise sand TUI AG. The new brand is designed to serve the German cruise market, where some 906,000 Germans took cruises in 2008, and where that number is forecast to increase by 11 percent in 2009. The 1,914-passenger vessel was formerly the Celebrity Galaxy, which left Celebrity Cruises’ fleet in March.

Record 400,000 Cruise Passengers Expected In Stockholm In 2009

The port of Stockholm will welcome eight new ships this year, bringing the total to call at our beautiful capital to more than 300 before the season ends in September. In 2009 the port of Stockholm expect some 400,000 cruise passengers on more than 300 ships of which 39 calls will be turnarounds, compared to the 365.000 passengers and 265 ships in 2008. Many of these ships will be visiting the new and exclusive cruise terminal that opened in 2008. "We are very optimistic about the season," says Josefin Haraldsson, project manager for the Stockholm Cruise Network. "We have been working intensively for many years to place Stockholm on the map as a cruise destination. And despite the worldwide financial crisis, all reports now show that we will have another record season." Cruise Lines have expressed optimism. Moreover, because the Euro and U.S. dollar are trading so favorably against the Swedish Krona, Stockholm and Sweden in general provide exceptional value when compared to other destinations in Northern Europe.

‘Pearl Mist’ 2009 Canadian Maritimes Season Cancelled

According to press reports, Pearl Seas Cruises has canceled its 2009 Canadian inaugural season of Pearl Mist, currently being built at the Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax. The company cited “deficiencies recently discovered during sea trials, quality issues and construction delays.”

The 214-passeeger vessel has been repeatedly delayed during its construction at Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax and was slated to make her debut this May.

In a statement, Pearl Seas said that it expressed appreciation for ‘the tremendous support it has received from of all the Canadian provinces and communities where the ship was scheduled to visit this year.’ Canada is on the itinerary schedule for Pearl Mist in 2010, starting in June.

Passengers booked on the canceled 2009 cruises have the option of receiving a full refund of their deposits or rebooking for a later cruise.

NCL Announces New Entertainment For Its Newest Ship, ‘Epic’

In another industry first, Norwegian Cruise Lines will welcome Blue Man Group,

performing in the 685-seat Epic Theater. Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts, which combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The blissful party atmosphere created at their live events has become the trademark of a Blue Man Group experience and beginning in the summer of 2010 will be seen for the first time ever at sea only on Norwegian Epic. “NCL has spent 42 years breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising and redefining what it means to be innovative. Now, with Norwegian Epic, we are re-inventing cruise ship entertainment by offering multiple entertainment options for every taste and age,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer. “Having a world-class creative organization like Blue Man Group headline the entertainment on Norwegian Epic will provide our guests with a sensory experience unlike any other at sea.”

Norwegian Epic’s 2010 inaugural sailings are now on sale. The first Eastern Caribbean sailing from Miami is scheduled for July 17, 2010 and the ship’s alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries are available through April 2011. Norwegian Epic’s Eastern Caribbean itinerary includes calls in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship’s Western Caribbean itinerary includes calls in Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico.

New ECC Report Highlights Significant Growth In European Cruise Market

According to the latest European Cruise Council (ECC) figures, the expansion of the cruise industry is exceeding expectations in terms of its impact on jobs, wealth creation and inbound tourism in Italy and across the continent. The fourth edition of the “European Cruise Contribution” report of the ECC, presented in Rome this month, shows direct expenditure by cruise companies, shipyards and passengers of 14.2 billion Euros in 2008 (a 10 percent increase from the previous year), with 4.3 billion Euros from Italy (+9 percent compared to 2007). Italy derives the greatest economic benefits from the cruise industry in Europe (30 percent of total spending in 2008).

A key factor behind this growth is the increasing number of passengers embarking on cruises from European ports, up 10 percent to 4.7 million in 2008. Italian ports are the busiest in Europe with 1.7 million departing passengers. There is a similar pattern for the continent’s transit passengers, who numbered 21.7 million in 2008 (+14 percent). Italy remains Europe’s favorite cruise destination with 23 percent of transit passenger movements, followed by Greece (20 percent), Spain (17 percent) and France (8 percent).

Europe’s position as the world’s leader in cruise ship design and construction is also helping to drive this growth. The ECC report estimates that during 2008 the global cruise industry spent around 5.2 billion Euros on cruise ship construction and maintenance in Europe. Italy is the country with the biggest slice of the 5.2 billion euro pie, with 1.5 billion spent.

Another rise for 2008 was seen in the number of Europeans taking holiday cruises, up ten percent to 4.4 million. In addition, there was an increase in the number of people employed in the cruise industry in Europe, with approximately 311,000 jobs in 2008, 15 percent more than the previous year.

May /April 2009

‘MSC Orchestra Makes Her Debut Call On New York

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MSC Orchestra leaving the Big Apple after her festive visit

MSC Orchestra arrived in New York City on May 5 to a warm welcome from city officials. Her arrival marks the first time one of the Italian-owned cruise line's ships has called in the "Big Apple." The ship docked overnight at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal before departing on an eastbound transatlantic crossing to Copenhagen, where she will sail Northern Europe itineraries during the summer months.

At a press conference on board the Orchestra, CEO and president Rick Sasso announced that on September 22, 2010, the line's newest ship MSC Magnifica--currently under construction in France--arrives in New York for the line's inaugural season of Canada/New England itineraries, roundtrip from New York City and Quebec City. It is estimated that the ship's calls in NYC can potentially have an indirect revenue impact on the city valued at more than $2.7 million. "It has been decades since vacationers have been able to sail from New York on a European-owned cruise line with the classic style and elegance that only the Italians know how to deliver," says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc. "We are excited to make this memorable experience readily accessible to the residents of the Northeast." And, he added, “we look forward to strengthening our position in New York City in future years."

MSC Cruises is no stranger to New York City. The U.S. headquarters of the cruise line's parent company, Mediterranean Shipping Company, have been based in New York City for nearly 25 years. Sasso, who was born and raised in New York, is keeping his affinity for his home city with the projection that Big Apple will see more MSC ships departing from the Westside piers in years to come.

Hull Artwork For NCL’s ‘Norwegian Epic’s Revealed

NCL unveiled the contemporary hull design, which will adorn Norwegian Epic, the company’s largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship to date, scheduled for delivery in May 2010. In addition, the company will begin taking reservations for Norwegian Epic’s 2010/2011 inaugural season on Thursday, May 21, 2009, with a special preview day for NCL’s past guests (Latitudes members) on Wednesday, May 20, 2009.

Norwegian Epic’s hull artwork, designed by the company’s Miami marketing team,

is painted on both sides with free form rolling waves of varying sizes that run through a modern color spectrum of lime, aqua, red, and purple and are dotted by silver circles.

Norwegian Epic’s hull design is a departure from the rest of the line’s signature hull artwork which typically is inspired by the ship’s name or the destination the ship sails from. Instead, the hull artwork on Norwegian Epic takes on the characteristics of the ship’s interior features – a sophisticated, modern and sleek design and color palette that is seen in everything from the innovative curved design of the New Wave staterooms to the more contemporary design of the ship’s public areas. “An NCL ship is instantly recognizable with its distinctive hull art that conveys each ship’s personality and the freedom and flexibility that is found on board,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer. “With Norwegian Epic, we are taking Freestyle Cruising to the next level, so it is fitting that her hull artwork conveys more of the modern, sleek design guests will find once they are on board the ship.”

To see the hull artwork being added to the ship, download renderings and register for news about the Epic, visit www.epic.ncl.eu or www.epic.ncl.com.

Fred. Olsen Alters Routes to Heighten Passenger Safety And Health

In response to a the threat of piracy on the seas and the spread of swine flu, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has altered upcoming itineraries affecting immediate as well as future cruises to heighten passenger safety.

The cruise line has changed the itinerary of Balmoral’s 2010 world cruise. The new itinerary avoids sailing through the Gulf of Aden, where pirate activities continue to present an imminent danger. The 106 night cruise, which is scheduled to sail from Dover on January 5, 2010 in a westerly direction, was due to visit ports in the Indian Ocean en route to Dubai, Oman and Egypt before transiting the Suez Canal and returning to the UK via the Mediterranean. Now it will cruise around Africa. Calls at Mauritius and South Africa shall replace visits to places such as Dubai and Salalah. Balmoral will return to Dover as scheduled on April 21, 2010.

On a related note, Fred. Olsen cancelled a call into Acapulco, which was on the 2009 world cruise of Balmoral. An extended stay in San Diego and an additional call in Costa Rica filled the gap. "The health and safety of our passengers and staff on board is of paramount importance, and we take very seriously the advice issued by the UK Government -- advising against all but essential travel to Mexico --with regard to issues such as this outbreak of Swine Flu," explains Matt Grimes, Fred. Olsen's Director of Planning. As scheduled, Balmoral will return to Dover on May 29.

‘Black Prince’ Sold To Venezuelan Cruise Operator

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines just announced the sale of its 451-passenger Black Prince to Servicios Acuaticos de Venezuela CA (SAVECA). The vessel will change hands in late October 2009 and will be used as a cruise ship operating in Venezuelan waters.

Cruise Baltic Launches ‘Best Adventures’ Competition

Cruise Baltic is encouraging travelers who return from a cruise vacation in the Baltic Sea region to share their favorite experiences on a new website www.ILoveCruiseBaltic.com. The site provides a forum for these holidaymakers to discuss their Cruise Baltic adventures through text, photos or videos, and access the experiences of fellow visitors to the region. The site also provides a great resource for consumers interested in vacationing in the region.

Additionally this site, will offer three monthly prizes for the promotion period, May 1, through August 31, 2009, for the best submissions of selected video, or slide show entries. In addition to these three prizes, at the end of the promotion period, a Grand Prize will be awarded in September, including two roundtrip Scandinavian Airlines tickets from any nonstop Scandinavian Airlines destination in the world to Copenhagen; two nights’ accommodation at the Scandic Palace hotel; two air tickets from Copenhagen to Stockholm and a further two nights’ accommodation at the Scandic Anglais hotel. The Grand Prize winner also will also receive free city cards, giving admission to public transport, attractions and more in both cities.

Free of charge, the www.ILoveCruiseBaltic.com site allows consumers to create their own Profile and store their own Baltic Sea region travel photos, travel videos, and travel blogs all in one place and share them with friends, family and others. The site also will allow users to research their next Baltic Sea region vacation with the help of cutting-edge tools and first-hand advice.

DUBAILAND and Royal Caribbean Sign Joint Marketing Partnership

DUBAILAND, a member of Tatweer, and Royal Caribbean International have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding towards the formation of a strategic marketing partnership, which is expected to provide a substantial boost to the cruise industry and the destination of Dubai. The agreement's goal is to promote the development, growth and commercial success of the two brands through joint marketing and promotional activities in key global source markets. Royal Caribbean will feature DUBAILAND's key live attractions in their shore excursion programs, while DUBAILAND will actively promote Royal Caribbean's Dubai cruises through their global agency network.

From January to April 2010, Royal Caribbean International will introduce seven-night sailings aboard the Brilliance of the Seas from Dubai to an international mix of guests, in line with its signature style of cruising for active holidaymakers. Guests will have ample time to explore the spectacular city with overnight stays at the beginning and conclusion of the voyage.

DUBAILAND is the world's largest tourism, leisure and entertainment destination. Phase One of DUBAILAND is now open with its five live projects - including Dubai Autodrome in MotorCity, Dubai Outlet Mall in Outlet City, The Global Village, Al Sahra Desert Resort and Dubai Sports City, which contains the Ernie Els Golf Club, the Butch Harmon School of Golf and the Cricket Stadium - operational.

DUBAILAND, a member of Tatweer and the world's largest tourism, leisure and entertainment destination has been designed to elevate the position of Dubai as an international hub for tourism. Covering an area of three billion square feet, DUBAILAND comprises an unparalleled portfolio of diverse mega projects that include theme parks, cultural attractions, spas, hotels and resorts, sports and entertainment venues. These world-class projects are being developed by respected international and local investors.

While phase One of DUBAILAND is now open with five operational projects, several other projects currently under construction include The Tiger Woods Dubai, Dubai Golf City, City of Arabia, F1X theme park at MotorCity, Dubai Lifestyle City, Palmarosa and Al Barari. Design and development is also underway on several theme parks including Universal Studios DUBAILAND(TM), Freej DUBAILAND, Dreamworks DUBAILAND, Marvel DUBAILAND, Six Flags DUBAILAND and LEGOLAND DUBAILAND.

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April Cruise News

CLIA Issues Statement On Cases of Swine Influenza

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) released the following statement regarding global concerns of the Swine Flu and the CDC’s April 27, 2009 Traveler’s Health Alert Notice:

“While no cases of Swine Flu aboard cruise ships or in cruise ports have been reported, the cruise industry is consulting closely with public health officials and government agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to monitor the situation.

“CLIA member cruise lines go to great lengths to maintain clean and sanitary environments aboard our vessels with the most comprehensive and proactive health and sanitation protocols in the travel and tourism industry. All CLIA members that engage in international voyages have well trained medical staff, expansive reporting and surveillance capabilities onboard. Working with U.S. public health officials in the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program, the cruise industry has developed and complies with extensive practices and procedures that are effective in mitigating illness aboard cruise ships. Additionally, working with the CDC and other governmental agencies, we are examining further steps that can be taken if necessary.”

Cruise Lines Enhance Screening Protocols On A Global Basis

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced that its member lines have adopted and begun employing enhanced screening procedures on a global basis to help prevent the introduction and/or spread of Influenza A (H1N1) on board cruise ships. Under the new CLIA health screening protocols, all passengers will be required to complete and sign a written questionnaire prior to boarding a CLIA member cruise ship anywhere in the world.

All passengers scheduled to board CLIA member line cruise ships will be required to complete the new public health questionnaire prior to boarding at any port. Under the enhanced screening protocols, CLIA member lines will perform a secondary screening if a passenger reports on the questionnaire flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat, or contact with a confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) case. Medical personnel at each cruise line will make case-by-case decisions regarding the boarding of these passengers. Passengers will not be permitted to travel if they exhibit influenza-like-illness or meet the suspect case conditions for Influenza A (H1N1) as defined by CDC (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/casedef_swineflu.htm). All other passengers will be permitted to travel. The industry instituted similar global screening protocols in the past during the outbreak of SARS in Asia.

Further, medical staff will isolate and treat passengers and crew with flu symptoms, if such a situation arises while the cruise ship is under way. CLIA member lines that operate internationally will maintain appropriate medical support equipment and medications, including anti-viral medications that are effective in treating flu, including Influenza A (H1N1).

The new screening protocols augment comprehensive vessel sanitation and public health surveillance procedures already employed by the industry, and subject to inspection by CDC in the U.S., that reduce the potential for transmission of contagious diseases including Influenza A (H1N1). These practices include the use of recommended disinfectants, surveillance and treatment of illnesses like influenza, isolation of sick passengers, food safety sanitation protocols, and consultation with public health authorities. Further information on travel and the swine flu can be found on the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu/CLIA

Quark Expeditions Alters Trip Schedule for Antarctica 2009-10.

In response to current market conditions, Quark Expeditions has introduced some changes to its 2009-10 programs. The main changes relate to Akademik Shokalskiy, which will not sail to Antarctica during the 2009-2010 season; and Akademik Sergey Vavilov, which will operate on a revised sailing schedule for Quark’s Melbourne-based sister company Peregrine Adventures. Note that bookings for Akademik Sergey Vavilov can now be directed to Peregrine Adventures at http://www.peregrineadventures.com/default.aspx?bhcp=1. For other inquiries, visit www.quarkexpeditions.com

‘Norwegian Sun’ Redeployed To Europe In 2010

NCL announced this month that it has redeployed Norwegian Sun for the summer of 2010, moving the ship from Alaska to Europe. The 1.936-passenger Norwegian Sun is assuming the summer 2010 itinerary previously announced for Norwegian Jewel and will sail a 12-night Baltic Capitals itinerary from Dover (London) beginning May 11, 2010 through September 8, 2010. In addition, the 2.376-passenger Norwegian Jewel will move from Europe to New York, sailing a combination of seven-night Bahamas & Florida, ten-night Canada and New England and ten-night Eastern Caribbean sailings from April 24, 2010 through April 24, 2011. “After carefully weighing the rising costs of deploying three ships in Alaska and taking into account the recently enacted legislation, in particular the US $ 50 head tax, we felt it was necessary to redeploy Norwegian Sun,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer. “Alaska is an incredible destination, but we are clearly seeing the impact of these changes in 2009, emphasized even more by this challenging economic environment.”

Norwegian Sun had been scheduled to sail a seven-night itinerary between Vancouver and Whittier. The ship’s new deployment now includes a 15-night Panama Canal sailing from Valparaiso (Santiago de Chile) to Miami on April 11, 2010. Norwegian Sun will then reposition to Europe on a 15-night transatlantic voyage from Miami to Dover (London) on April 26, 2010, and begin her series of eleven 12-night Baltic Capitals cruises with stops in Copenhagen, Warnemünde (Berlin), Tallinn, overnight in St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Nynaeshamn (Stockholm)

Following her winter season in Miami, Norwegian Jewel repositions to New York on a 13-night Circle the Caribbean voyage on April 11, 2010. Once in New York, the ship will sail a series of 20 seven-night Bahamas & Florida cruises with stops in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau.

Two other NCL ships, Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Star will continue their deployment in Alaska next summer, sailing seven-night Sawyer Glacier and Glacier Bay cruises from Seattle.

Those who have booked reservations on Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Jewel’s previously scheduled sailings, have the option to transfer their reservation to a comparable sailing with their fare protected or re-priced if the fare is lower, along with an on-board credit. In addition, bookings can be cancelled without charges. Transfers must be completed by Monday, May 11, 2009.

MSC Cruises’ Ship Successfully Evades Pirates Near Seychelles

MSC Cruises confirms that its Melody cruise ship was attacked by pirates near the Seychelles Islands on Saturday evening, April 25, 2009. The ship initiated avoidance procedures and quickly escaped the attack with no injuries to any of the approximately 1,000 passengers and 500 crew members onboard.

The pirates approached the ship in a small speedboat firing automatic weapons at 7:35 pm GMT while the ship was sailing 180 nautical miles from Port Victoria in the Seychelles. MSC Cruises immediately informed the Italian government foreign office (La Farnesina), the Maritime Security Center in London and the Coordination Center for Security in Dubai.

A military vessel from the international security forces in the region has been sent to escort the Melody as a precaution, and the ship is continuing to Aqaba, Jordan, on its scheduled itinerary.

First RCI Ship To Be Based Year-Round In Southampton, UK

With the Independence of the Seas returning to the UK for its second season based out of Southampton, owners Royal Caribbean International have announced that the ship will be based year round from the port in 2010. The development will see Royal Caribbean International generate a massive £50 million in terms of knock-on economic impact on the Southampton area.

Independence of the Seas will be the first ever Royal Caribbean International ship to be based year-round from the UK and will remain the largest and most innovative ship sailing in Europe. “Royal Caribbean International is committed to continuing to grow its presence in the British and Irish markets. When Independence of the Seas first sailed from the UK it was one of the best performing ships in the fleet,” commented Robin Shaw, vice president and managing director, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, UK and Ireland It is great news that Independence of the Seas will call Southampton home for the long term and means that we firmly cement our position as one of the leading players in the UK cruise industry.”

Royal Caribbean International first based a ship from Southampton in 2005, the 2,076-guest Legend of the Seas. After two summer seasons from the port, Royal Caribbean International introduced the 3,114-guest Navigator of the Seas for one year in summer 2007. Navigator of the Seas was replaced in summer 2008 when the 3,600-guest Independence of the Seas launched in Southampton and became the first new Royal Caribbean International ship to operate its inaugural season from this port.

Operating at maximum capacity, Independence of the Seas can carry up to 4,300 guests.

Reservations for the 2010 winter season are open as of June 1, 2009.

‘Hebridean Princess’ Sold To All Leisure Group plc

All Leisure group plc, which operates Swan Hellenic and Voyages of Discovery, has signed an agreement with Ernst & Young, acting as administrators for Hebridean International Cruises Ltd. and Leisure and Marine Holdings Ltd., for the acquisition of the cruise ship Hebridean Princess and other related assets for a cash consideration of £1.4 million ($2.1 million).

The Hebridean Princess carries 49 passengers and 37 crew and offers luxury cruises from March through to November and operates principally from Oban in Scotland around the Scottish Highlands and Islands and Norwegian Fjords.

Roger Allard, Group Executive Chairman said that “this acquisition is our first investment of the funds raised on flotation and represents, as promised, a continuation of All Leisure's strategy to acquire established niche destination-led brands. Hebridean Princess justifiably enjoys the exceptionally high levels of both passenger loyalty (historically enjoying over 50% repeat passenger business) and customer support that a product of this quality and profile should demand."

The line’s Hebridean Spirit was sold to an undisclosed private buyer. The larger of Hebridean International Cruises two vessels, the 98-passenger ship ceased operations in March.

Royal Caribbean Beats First Quarter Projections But Trims Outlook

Stable close-in bookings and better than expected cost-cutting reduced Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s first quarter loss to $36.2 million, or a loss of 17 cents per share, well below guidance of a loss of 30 cents to 35 cents. Wall Street had expected a loss of 34 cents per share. A year ago, Royal Caribbean posted a profit of $75.6m, or 35 cents per share.

RCI Chairman and CEO Richard Fain reported a more stable revenue environment for the rest of the year. However, net yields are projected to come at the lower end of previous guidance of down 12% to 13% (down 9% to 10% in constant dollars). Reduced revenue expectations are largely offset by an improved cost outlook, and the company now projects 2009 EPS of around $1.35, a nickel below previous guidance.

First quarter revenues were $1.3bn, down from $1.4bn a year ago. Net yields came in at down 13.5%, slightly better than guidance of down 14% to down 16%. Costs per available berth were cut 7%, beating guidance of down 4% to 6%. “Given the horrible economy, I am encouraged by a more stable revenue environment and I am proud that our people have been able to reduce expenses and deliver better than expected results,” Fain said.

Royal Caribbean noted the overall revenue picture has remained relatively consistent since the end of 2008. Discounting continues to be ‘aggressive’ yet is within the range of previous guidance, and booking volumes have been sufficient to achieve forecasted occupancy levels.

In January, the company noted booking patterns had begun to stabilize but said there was still a high level of uncertainty in the market. ‘Since then, we have seen consumer behavior stabilize even further,’ said CFOo Brian Rice. ‘We are obviously not completely back to equilibrium yet, but the predictability of our bookings gets better every day and the risk of a dramatic deviation continues to fall.’

Second quarter net yields are projected to decline 17% (12% on a constant dollar basis). Third quarter net yields are seen as slightly better, mainly due to Pullmantur, which will have easier comparables from the prior year due to the earlier deterioration in the Spanish economy.

Q2 and Q3 net yields are projected to show the largest declines on an as-reported basis, with each quarter impacted by approximately five percentage points based on current exchange rates. On a constant dollar basis, the quarters are also being impacted by weaker demand for premium seasonal itineraries such as Alaska.

Royal Caribbean expects Q4 will not suffer as large a revenue decline thanks to more favorable currency comparables and a product mix weighted more heavily toward the stronger performing Caribbean. Q4 will be comparable to the last months of 2008, which included an impact from the economic downturn.

Royal Caribbean described Oasis of the Seas bookings as ‘extremely robust’ and expected to have a significant accretive impact on yields.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced April 15 that it has arranged commitments for unsecured financing in the amount of USD 1,050,000,000 or 80 percent of the contract price of Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas. The facility will be 95 percent guaranteed by Finnvera, the official export credit agency of Finland, and amortizes over 12 years. BNP Paribas, Nordea Bank and SEB have each committed to provide 20 percent of the financing and each may elect to opt-out after six years. Finnish Export Credit Ltd. will provide funding for the remaining 40 percent. The company has an option of a floating or fixed rate of interest, and overall terms will fall within the company's financial projections. The commitments are subject only to customary closing conditions. "We are very pleased to have secured the financing for Oasis of the Seas," said Brian J. Rice, executive vice president and chief financial officer. "With the tight credit environment and lack of liquidity in the financial markets today, this financing is a testimony to the strength of our company, the terrific partnership we have with Finland, and the outstanding long-term relationships we enjoy with our banks."

Cruise Lines Suspend Calls At Mexican Ports Temporarily

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is temporarily suspending its port calls in Mexico. The decision was made in an abundance of caution, and allows additional time to better understand the full impact of the Swine Flu. The suspension involves the company's Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises brands. Royal Caribbean International has four ships currently making regularly scheduled port call in Mexico - Enchantment of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas. Two additional Royal Caribbean International ships were scheduled to make upcoming Mexican port calls as they repositioned - Serenade of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. Celebrity Cruises had one ship scheduled to make upcoming Mexico port calls as it repositions - Celebrity Infinity.

All but one of the affected ships will either make alternative port calls or spend additional time at sea. Royal Caribbean International's Mariner of the Seas will sail a fully revised itinerary, visiting Canada and the U.S. West Coast. The temporary suspension takes effect immediately and will be in effect for the immediate future. It will be regularly reviewed in light of any Swine Flu developments.

The company has been closely monitoring Swine Flu developments and is utilizing its Influenza Prevention and Response Plans. That plan was developed by its office of Medical and Public Health in coordination with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health experts. The plan is based on three pillars: Preparedness and Communication; Surveillance and Detection; and Response and Containment.

Other cruise lines are also making a detour from Mexican port calls. Holland America announced that five of its ships will not make port calls in April and early May. Those ships are the Ryndam, Statendam, Westerdam, Zuiderdam and Veendam

Other cruise lines revising their itineraries include Princess and Carnival Cruise Lines.

SeaDream Cruise Line Not For Sale Says Company Owner & CEO

Amid industry reports that SeaDream Yacht Club was up for sale, company owner and CEO Atle Brynestad issued a statement refuting the rumors. “ I am pleased to inform you that SeaDream is not for sale. There have been some miss quotes in the media in Norway. The ships and the remarkable teamwork and performance of the SeaDream team (300 in total) have made it possible for the ships to sail with 100 percent occupancy for almost two years now. SeaDream had a record year in 2008 and SeaDream will also have a very good year in 2009. As of the week of April 20 SeaDream has achieved more than 80 percent of its year- end revenue goal. The first quarter net result for 2009 was even higher than for the same quarter in 2008.”

SeaDream was founded in 2001 by Brynestad and Larry Pimentel, who abruptly left the company earlier this year, saying his departure was “due to fundamental disagreements with the principals of the organization.” Brynestad assumed the CEO role and Bob Lepisto was named president. Pimentel previously worked under Brynestad at Seabourn Cruise Line, a line that Brynestad founded in 1987 and served as its chairman for ten years.

Norwegian Cruise Line Reports Record Results & Net Yield Growth For 2008

Norwegian Cruise Line (the "Company") completed a strategic repositioning in 2008, implementing a number of initiatives that have led to record results and improved financial performance even within a challenging economic environment.

Highlights from 2008 included the augmentation of its senior management team with both seasoned managers and industry veterans; enhancement of its onboard product with the full implementation of Freestyle 2.0; significant improvement in the way it conducts business with its travel partners through Partnership 2.0; realignment of its Hawaii operations; restructuring of its new build program; and a keen focus on managing and streamlining its cost structure. "The Company achieved record improvements in both EBITDA and Net Yields in 2008 despite an extremely challenging economy," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's Chief Executive Officer. "We worked diligently in 2008 to transform the Company with the successful implementation of a variety of measures and initiatives. The result is a new Company, one that is extremely focused on customer service, financial performance and is well poised to come through this difficult period."

Norwegian Cruise Line reported a record setting 18.2% increase in EBITDA1,2, in 2008 of $228.1 million versus $192.9 million in 2007. On a pro forma basis, EBITDA1,2 increased 55.7% to $300.1 million versus the prior year after including the impact of restructuring initiatives such as the re-flagging and redeployment of Pride of Hawaii and Pride of Aloha from the Company's U.S.-flagged fleet to its international fleet as Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Sky, respectively, as well as other cost saving initiatives.

In 2008, net revenues increased 2.9% despite a 3.7% decrease in capacity. Total revenues for 2008 were $2.1 billion versus $2.2 billion in 2007, a 3.2% decrease. Net Yields1 for 2008 increased 6.9% from the prior year while Gross Yields1 were modestly higher. Operating income for the Company increased by 46.3% to $65.5 million in 2008 from $44.8 million in 2007, excluding impairment charges in 2008 of $128.8 million related to the cancellation of a contract to build a ship and $2.6 million in 2007 related to the sale of Oceanic. Excluding these one-time charges, the Company reported a net loss of $83.0 million for its year ended December 31, 2008, as compared to a net loss of $224.4 million for the prior year. Results for the year ended December 31, 2008 include a non-cash foreign exchange translation gain of $101.8 million primarily related to marking-to-market the Company's Euro denominated debt, offset by $99.9 million of losses due to the change in fair value of our derivative contracts. The Company reported a non-cash foreign exchange translation loss of $94.5 million for the same period in 2007. Interest expense (net of capitalized interest), decreased by $23.0 million year-over-year as a result of lower average outstanding debt balances for the year.

Outlook

In the first few months of 2009, the Company experienced strong bookings with a rise of 15% year-over-year through March 15, 2009. In addition, the new Groups 2.0 program, launched in December, saw a threefold increase in group staterooms blocked compared to the same time last year. In 2009, the Company will return the last of its older chartered ships (Norwegian Majesty) to Star Cruises, completing the transformation of its fleet to 100% modern ships purpose-built for Freestyle Cruising. The Company is eagerly anticipating the arrival of its next generation of Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, scheduled for delivery in May 2010. The arrival of Norwegian Epic represents the next step in this exciting evolution of the Company's fleet. The Company announced further details about the ship's wide range of accommodations on March 18, 2009, the innovative dining and amenities on April 3, 2009 and will reveal information about the entertainment on May 20, 2009. The Company will also open Norwegian Epic's 2010 itineraries for sale to the public on May 20, 2009.

In recent months, the Company had been exploring alternatives to optimize its capital structure. In conjunction with an equity investment by its shareholders of $100 million, the Company has refinanced approximately $800 million of debt that it had coming due in 2009 and 2010.

"This is an extremely exciting time for Norwegian Cruise Line. We've transformed the Company, improved our financial performance, negotiated new lender terms and received additional financial support from our shareholders," added Sheehan. "In addition, we've just received in depth broadcast coverage with the premiere of the much anticipated CNBC/Peter Greenberg documentary which showcases Norwegian Cruise Line to a large, international viewing audience. All of these elements are helping us to weather this challenging climate."

Swan Hellenic Launches North American Website

Swan Hellenic has launched a North American website featuring promotions for the US and Canadian market, complete details on the line’s ocean and river programs and pricing in U.S. dollars. The line, which features the 394-guest Minerva and the 199-guest A-Rosa Riva, also has announced savings up to 70 percent on select departures and categories. Fares start at $1,995 per person, double, on the 14-night Eastern Mediterranean & Black Sea cruise, sailing May 12 to 26; $1,995 per person, double, on the Grecian Odyssey cruise sailing May 26 through June 10; and $1,795 per person, double, for the 16-night Journey from the Mediterranean cruise departing Livorno June 9. Air add-ons and transfers are available from 21 U.S. and Canadian gateway cities, ranging from $1,107 to $1,627 per person. Savings also are available on select voyages of Swan Hellenic’s Danube river cruises. Fares for the 10-night cruises aboard the A-Rosa Riva are priced from $2,195 per-person, double. These cruises sail roundtrip from Vienna May 10 and 30. Air add-ons are available from $205 to $655, depending on cruise and gateway. Cruise-only guests may deduct $400 from the cruise fare. For more information, call 866-923 9182 or visit www.swanhellenic.us.

‘Black Prince’ Sold To Venezuelan Cruise Operator

An agreement to sell the Fred. Olsen cruise ship, Black Prince, has today been confirmed by the vessel’s owning company, Black Prince Cruise Ltd. Purchase of the 451 passenger vessel has been agreed with Servicios Acuaticos de Venezuela CA (SAVECA) through

US Shipbrokers of Florida, USA.

Completion of the sale and the delivery of Black Prince to SAVECA will take place shortly after its last cruise finishes in Southampton on October 16, 2009. It is understood that the vessel will be used as a cruise ship operating in Venezuelan waters.

With the sale of the Black Prince after October, the Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines fleet will consist of four vessels: Black Watch, Boudicca, Braemar and Balmoral.

Black Prince entered service for Fred. Olsen in October 1966, initially as a joint cruise ship and vehicle ferry between the UK and the Canary Islands, and the UK and Norway, and in recent years as a full time cruise ship from various regional UK ports to destinations in Europe, the Arctic, Africa, and the Caribbean. Reportedly, Fred. Olsen chose to retire Black Prince instead of completing the costly upgrades needed to comply with new International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, which will become effective by October 1, 2010.

Windstar Cruises Launches Future Cruise Program

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 the new Future Cruise program that allows guests to book their future cruises from the comfort of their current Windstar cruise.

Windstar guests can now book future cruises onboard their current Windstar cruise and receive a minimum $100 per person shipboard credit, plus a reduced deposit amount. This new offering provides guests with the leisure of selecting their next sailing with the help of their onboard host and ensures that they have the best chance of securing their favorite stateroom. Guests' onboard bookings will be linked to the travel agent that booked their current sailing.

‘Golden Princess’ Enters Drydock For Dramatic Makeover & Twitters

As Golden Princess begins the most extensive makeover ever undertaken by the company, Princess Cruises is inviting cruise fans to follow the progress through Twitter updates that will showcase a daily photo journal of the ship's transformation. A first for Princess, the online posts will chronicle the dramatic changes throughout the ship during its nearly three-week drydock at Victoria Shipyards in British Columbia.

The journal has launched at www.princess.com/goldendrydock and will run through May 5, when the ship sets sail again with its new features, including a new piazza-style atrium, an adults-only Sanctuary, a Movies Under the Stars poolside movie screen, a new Crown Grill steak and seafood restaurant, and a variety of other enhancements.

Twitter users will receive a daily "tweet" about the latest construction progress after they follow an easy sign up process and elect to follow Princess at http://twitter.com/PrincessCruises.

The amenities being added during the drydock are the Princess signature features already aboard the line's newest ships, Crown Princess, Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess. Many have also been introduced aboard on Caribbean Princess, Star Princess and Grand Princess during earlier drydock periods.

In addition to work being done on the Golden Princess, the Victoria Shipyards will also be refitting Holland America's Amsterdam and then the Celebrity Millennium.

Royal Caribbean Announces New Dining and Beverage Offerings

Royal Caribbean has announced enhancements to the cruise line’s dining program, offering guests greater flexibility. With the introduction of new flexible dining programs called My Time Dining and My Family Time Dining for kids and other enhancements, guests will now have a diverse variety of choices to dine at whichever time and however they wish, in addition to the cruise line’s traditional dining, casual or specialty dining, and in-stateroom service offerings. The new dining program is available immediately fleetwide.

My Time Dining, which Royal Caribbean has piloted on select ships since early 2008, provides guests with the flexibility to enjoy dinner in the main dining room whenever they wish during dining hours. Guests choosing My Time Dining will not have a pre-assigned table, but will be seated in the ship’s main dining room; order from the same traditional dinner menu.

My Time Dining guests can make daily reservations for specific seating times or choose to walk-in. Guests can be seated with the party they arrive with, request to be seated with other guests or dine alone. To ensure a smooth and undisrupted experience, no additional guests will be seated at a table once dinner service has begun. Guests choosing My Time Dining must prepay gratuities and enroll onboard or in advance through www.RoyalCaribbean.com or the cruise line’s reservations department. Travel agents can enroll their customers for My Time Dining through the reservations department currently for select ships and via booking tools for all ships beginning May 10.

Inquiry Into ‘MV Explorer’ Sinking Faults Captain and Poor Safety Equipment

A Liberian inquiry into the sinking of a small adventure cruise ship in the Antarctic last year, in which ten Australians were among the 154 passengers and crew rescued from open lifeboats, has blamed the Swedish captain and inadequate safety equipment and training. The report also proposed tough new safety benchmarks in the booming Antarctic cruise market, which carries thousands of Australians south to the ice fields each year.

The Canadian ship, MV Explorer, sailing under a Liberian flag, sank on November 23, 2007, after being holed by ice in the South Atlantic off King George Island while on a 19-day voyage tracing the route of the early 20th century explorer Ernest Shackleton.

The engines of three of the four lifeboats failed to start and passengers had to be pulled to safety from crushing ice by rubber Zodiac boats to wait some four hours to be rescued by another cruise ship.

The Liberian Government inquiry said the 39-year-old captain, who was untrained for Antarctic ice conditions, drove his ship too fast at a "wall of ice" at night in the mistaken belief it was thinner. If not for the fair weather, the failures that followed might have meant a greater cost to everyone on board, who were rescued uninjured in Antarctica's first sinking of a tourist ship.

According to the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators, a total of 3300 Australians went to Antarctica in 2007-08, the industry's peak year. Increasingly, some of these tourists are coming to grief. There were 11 Australians on MV Ushuaia when it grounded on the Antarctic Peninsula last December 5, and another seven aboard the Ocean Nova when it hit rocks there on February 17. Each ship was evacuated safely, freed off the rocks, and repaired.

Holland America Lays Keel For ‘ms Nieuw Amsterdam’

Construction of Holland America Line’s new Signature-class premium cruise ship ms Nieuw Amsterdam reached a milestone on March 24 with the keel-laying ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Italy. The 2,106-guest ship is scheduled for delivery in late June 2010.

Just before laying the keel, the large section of Nieuw Amsterdam that was built at Fincantieri’s Sestri yard near Genoa, Italy, was towed around the foot of Italy to Venice. Once it arrived, the section was floated into the building dock and placed on blocks. The section that signifies the ceremonial keel laying was lifted into the building dock and later joined with the section built in Sestri.

The section that was built at Fincantieri’s Sestri yard near Genoa was towed around the foot of Italy.

Explorations Book Club Debuts On Holland America Line Cruise Ships

An enriching new book club program will debut on Holland America Line’s sailings of 14 days or more starting in May 2009. As part of the cruise line’s ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Book Club will launch with the popular novel “Like Water for Chocolate” on the Panama Canal ms Veendam sailing. Book club gatherings will be implemented on select sailings of 14 days or more starting in the fall, with a different novel selected for each itinerary.

Lively book discussions will be hosted by the on-board librarian in the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times. Guests interested in joining the discussion will have time to read the selected book as the chosen title will be posted online prior to each sailing. The onboard librarian will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, books under consideration are “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson for Australia itineraries or “Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan” for Asia cruises.

AIDAluna Inaugurated In Festive Ceremony In Palma

Since April 5, the newest ship of the AIDA fleet officially bears the name AIDAluna. At exactly 10:18 PM, international top model Franziska Knuppe smashed the champagne bottle across the bow and enunciated the talismanic christening words.

For the first time ever, the naming ceremony took place on board an AIDA ship. The whole vessel had been turned into a huge stage. The christening act and the fireworks were embedded into the spectacular entertainment program and made the event an unforgettable experience. Internet users also enjoyed a true world premiere: For the first time, a ship christening was broadcasted live via satellite and twitter. More than 12,000 viewers watched the board program with great excitement on their screens.

The newly christened ship will operate ten roundtrips in the Baltic Sea during summer. In September, AIDAluna will change to the Canary Islands.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises To Offer First Classical Music Competition At Sea

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' flagship, MS Europa in cooperation with eight international opera houses, including New York's Metropolitan Opera, is hosting their first annual classical music competition. The competition named Stella Maris (Latin for "Stars of the High Seas"), will occur on board a ten-day Southern European cruise departing from Venice, Italy on October 25 and ending in Barcelona, Spain on November 4, 2009. Unlike the EUROPA's very popular yearly Ocean Sun Festival , featuring renowned classical music artists, the Stella Maris concept brings the world's best up-and-coming young singers together from opera houses in New York, Toronto, Hamburg, Dresden, Zurich, London, Milan and Paris competing in a vocal competition on board.

The top notch prizes for the winners include: a performance at the Vienna Opera House, €15,000 in cash, a Test-Recording with Deutsche Grammophon, a management contract and and a concert with recording time with Deutsche Radio Philharmonic conducted by Christoph Poppen. Additionally, MS Europa will invite one of the three winners to perform on a cruise in 2010/2011.

Cunard Line and Oxford University Press Introduce Science at Sea

Cunard Line is partnering with Oxford University Press (OUP) to introduce the Cunard/Oxford University Press Science Club, a multi-faceted membership program featuring the new onboard Science at Sea lectures by prominent science writers. In addition, guests can join the Science Club, affording ongoing opportunities to stay abreast of the latest in popular science publishing through quarterly OUP email newsletters, invitations to book launches and more.

Prior to forming the Science at Sea program, Cunard surveyed more than 3,000 guests on their interest in science and the particular topics about which they would like to know more. Among the hottest topics are genetics, astronomy and oceanography.

Cunard guests can become members of the Science Club simply by completing a membership card onboard a Science at Sea voyage. Membership will entitle them to quarterly emails from Oxford University Press featuring updates and articles on the upcoming Science at Sea voyages and invitations to book launches, promotional offers, competitions and information on speakers.

‘Queen Elizabeth’ Maiden Voyage In 2010 Sells Out

The October 2010 Maiden Voyage for Cunard’s new ocean liner Queen Elizabeth, which was placed on worldwide sale ton April 1, sold out in a record 29 minutes – easily making this the fastest selling voyage in Cunard’s 170-year history. In fact, this voyage sold out quicker involving more guests than QE2’s Final Voyage when it set a previous Cunard sell-out record of 36 minutes in June 2007.

In addition, more than half of Queen Elizabeth’s remaining Maiden Season, comprising six voyages from October to December 2010, was sold within the first two hours.

Queen Elizabeth will feature the unique Cunard traditions linking her with her sisters Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria and their predecessors, along with some exciting features that will give the vessel her own style and personality, plus all the modern day luxuries Cunard’s guests have come to expect.

Named after the first Queen Elizabeth, one of Cunard’s greatest ships, the new Queen Elizabeth will reflect her predecessor in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist. From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at an experience that differentiates a Cunard liner from a modern-day cruise ship. This will be most evident in the ship’s adherence to liner traditions, with elegant double and triple height public rooms on a grand scale, luxuriously endowed with rich wood paneling, intricate mosaics, gleaming chandeliers and cool marbles. Art Deco features will pay homage to the original Queen Elizabeth and will allow the new ship to reflect a more civilized era of travel.

Queen Elizabeth’s maiden 2010 season will consist of six voyages, calling on 32 distinct ports in 18 countries. Her Maiden Voyage, now sold out, will depart from Cunard’s homeport of Southampton on October 12, 2010, en route to the Atlantic Isles.

The ship will then embark on five celebratory inaugural voyages, for which space is still available but selling fast:

Carnival Cruise Lines Introduces New Your Choice Dining Program

This month, Carnival Cruise Lines launched Your Choice Dining which provides a selection of three different dinner seating options for guests aboard the lines 22-ship fleet. In addition to Early or Late assigned seating, the cruise line is rolling out Your Time open seating to accommodate individual guest preferences. Also, under the new Your Choice Dining program, dining assignments will be confirmed at the time of booking.

“We have been experimenting with an open seating dinner option on a few ships since the latter part of 2008, said Roberta Jacoby, Carnival’s senior vice president of hotel operations. “Exceptional guest feedback to the pilot program and an indication from the vast majority of those participating that they would choose that option again has prompted the decision to extend open seating fleetwide.”

Your Time open seating, currently available on five ships, will be implemented one vessel at a time over the next several months as modifications in dining room table configurations are completed on each ship. An additional eight ships are scheduled to be converted by the end of year and the balance of the fleet by summer 2010. Confirmed dining assignments are now being offered fleetwide.

Royal Caribbean International Names New Senior Vice President, Marketing

Royal Caribbean International has named Betsy O’Rourke senior vice president of Marketing. O’Rourke will be responsible for all aspects of the cruise line’s marketing program, including brand strategy and positioning, consumer and trade advertising, web and loyalty marketing, research, brand development and communications. She will report directly to Adam Goldstein, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO.

O’Rourke has more than 25 years of marketing and communications experience. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of Marketing and Communications for Wyndham Worldwide, where she was responsible for developing corporate marketing programs, oversaw media relations and served as marketing liaison within the company’s various business units, including Wyndham Hotel Group, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with nearly 7,000 hotels under 12 brand names; Group RCI, the world's largest vacation exchange and rental company; and Wyndham Vacation Ownership, the world's largest timeshare company. Previously, she served as senior vice president of marketing for the Travel Industry Association of America, where she created SeeAmerica, an international umbrella marketing program for the U.S. travel industry, and was recognized for her leadership in the 9/11 travel industry recovery campaign.

‘MSC Rhapsody’ is Sold

On April 8, MSC Cruises confirmed the sale, effective immediately, of MSC Rhapsody to a new owner. Reportedly, the ship was sold to an Israeli ship owner.

The 16,852 gross registered ton MSC Rhapsody -- 681 feet long, 89 feet wide with 382 staterooms -- was built in 1977 and has been part of the MSC Cruises’ fleet. The ship was refurbished in 2004.

Disney Announces Names for Two New Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise Line announced the names of its two new ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.

Disney Dream will debut in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.

The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.

The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons.

Susan Hooper New Head Of Saga Holidays

Susan Hooper, former senior vice president and managing director EMEA for Royal Caribbean International & Celebrity Cruises, has joined Saga Holidays. Hooper, who left Royal Caribbean in September 2008, is CEO of Saga Holidays and Saga Cruising, specializing in travel for the over-50 age group.