HAL Names Its New Build ‘MS Eurodam’
Holland America Line will name its new 2,044-passenger Signature-class ship that is scheduled to be delivered in summer 2008 the ms Eurodam. The new Eurodam marks Holland America Line's next class of vessels and the largest ever constructed for the premium line. With an estimated all-in cost of $450 million, the new 86,000-ton Panamax Eurodam will be built at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard. "This will be the 80th passenger ship to sail in the company's fleet and the first ship in our illustrious history to bear the name Eurodam," said Stein Kruse, president and chief executive officer. "We chose the name Eurodam to celebrate our European and Dutch heritage and our third century of sailing in one of the world's most popular cruising regions."
The company's first ship, the ss Rotterdam, sailed her maiden voyage from Rotterdam to New York City in October of 1872, 134 years ago last month.
The line has an option for a second Signature Class vessel which would be delivered in spring 2010. Click New Ships for more details on the Eurodam

Pamela C. Conover Named Seabourn President And CEO

Respected cruise industry executive Pamela C. Conover has been named president and chief executive officer of Seabourn Cruise Line, the Miami-based, ultra luxury brand owned by Carnival Corporation & plc. In her new role, she will report to Carnival vice chairman Howard Frank.
Conover, who was assigned as acting president of Seabourn after the company's late president Deborah L. Natansohn suffered a heart attack on October 22, was most recently senior vice president of shared services at Carnival Corporation, where, among other duties, her market research and strategic analysis resulted in an order for two new ships for Seabourn. Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc, said, "Pam brings a wealth of experience to Seabourn and I am confident that she will continue Debbie Natansohn's record of making Seabourn the best luxury brand in the cruise industry."
Conover has a previous operating history with the Seabourn brand, having been president and chief operating officer of Cunard Line Limited, which operated the fleets of both Seabourn and Cunard, from 2001 until the two brands were de-merged in 2004. In that role, she oversaw the building and launch of Cunard's Queen Mary 2 and the strategic restructuring and re- branding of Seabourn's three-ship fleet.
The role at Seabourn is Conover's third cruise line presidency. In 1994, she served as president and chief executive officer of Epirotiki Line, based in Athens, Greece, until she was recruited to join Carnival Corporation as vice president of strategic planning. At Carnival, she engineered the acquisition of assets including Seabourn, Cunard and Costa Cruises as a part of the corporate development strategy of the largest and most successful cruise vacation group in the world.

Quark Expeditions To Deploy Its Newest Vessel To Antarctica
The arctic and polar small-ship line Quark Expeditions has bought its first ship, the 96-passenger expedition vessel Sarpik Ittuk, from the Arctic Umiaq Line of Nuuk, Greenland. Quark CEO Patrick Shaw said the vessel will be deployed to Antarctica during the austral summer for Quark and will operate adventure cruising programs in Greenland, the Baltic Sea and Norway for one of Quark's client tour operators, Denmark-based Albatros Travel.

NCL Confirms Contracts with Aker Yards for Two New Cruising Ships
NCL Corporation Ltd. has confirmed the contracts with Aker Yards S.A. of France to build two new third generation Freestyle Cruising cruise ships, with an option for a third, by lifting all subjects in the contracts, including financing, completion of the design specification, and Star Cruises shareholder approval.
The vessels will be delivered from Aker Yards in Saint Nazaire, France in 2009 and 2010, with the optional third sister ship for delivery in the first quarter of 2011. As announced on September 7, 2006, the contract price, comprising two firm ships and one option, is approximately US$2.8 billion at today's exchange rate.
The ships, totaling 12,600 berths, will be built for the company's Norwegian Cruise Line brand (NCL) and will each be approximately 150,000 Gross Tons and 4,200 passenger berths. The contract price for each of the first two ships is €735 million, and for the optional third ship is €700 million. Commenting on the confirmation of the contracts, NCL's President and CEO Colin Veitch said, "With the confirmation of the contracts with Aker Yards, we are one step closer to our vision of introducing the new third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships and to satisfying our goal of having the youngest, most modern fleet in the industry by 2010."
With the project name “F3,” the new ships will incorporate a world of new features and will represent NCL's third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, a further evolution of NCL's progressive dismantling of the structure, regimentation, and constraints of the traditional cruise experience. Details of the ship's design will be released closer to delivery.

Star Cruises To Raise US$200 Million Equity Via Rights Issue
Star Cruises Limited has announced a US$200 million fully underwritten rights issue to inter alia part-finance the building of up to three newbuilds for Norwegian Cruise Line announced on September 7, 2006.  The balance of the financing for the newbuilds will be via bank borrowings and internally generated cash.
The Lim Family and Resorts World Limited have given their full support for the rights by providing undertakings to the Company to take up their portion of the rights.  The Lim Family is also negotiating to sub-underwrite the public portion of the rights. Commenting on the Rights Issue, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman of Star Cruises, said “The rights issue will strengthen NCL’s competitive position by allowing the company to invest in up to three “Third Generation Freestyle Cruising” ships.  This will enhance NCL’s product offering and expand its broad range of itineraries.” 
The total contract price for the three newbuilds is approximately US$3.0 billion and each ship will be about 150,000 GRT with 4,200 passenger berths. Each of these ships can carry a quarter million passengers a year.
The rights issue is expected to close by the end of this year.

NCL CEO Colin Veitch Receives United Seamen’s Service Award
Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation received the United Seamen's Service's (USS) 2006 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) award at a gala event in New York City on November 3.  The annual award is the U.S. maritime industry's most prestigious honor, recognizing individuals in the shipping industry who have made significant contributions to American shipping and American seafarers.
In selecting Veitch, USS lauded the company's NCL America brand, which came to fruition in 2004 under Veitch's stewardship.  NCL America made maritime history on July 4, 2004 when it christened the 77,000-ton Pride of Aloha as the first modern U.S.-flagged cruise ship in nearly half a century.  Pride of Aloha was joined in 2005 by NCL America's Pride of America and this year by Pride of Hawaii.
Together, the three U.S.-flagged cruise ships provide employment for nearly 4,000 American seafarers, making NCL America one of the largest private employers of U.S. seafarers in the world. USS also commended NCL America's U.S. economic impact.  NCL America's three U.S.-flagged ships sail Hawaii inter-island itineraries year-round, and are estimated to create directly and indirectly 20,000 jobs and generate more than $800 million in economic activity in the United States. "Colin's vision and leadership brought about an unprecedented revival of the U.S.-flag cruise industry," said AOTOS Dinner Chairman Michael Sacco, president of the Seafarers International Union.  "When it looked like the U.S.-flag cruise industry was going to disappear after 9/11, NCL made a bold move, investing in U.S.-flagged cruise ships and creating thousands of jobs for the nation's maritime workers. We're extremely proud of what Colin and NCL have accomplished with their U.S.-flag fleet in Hawaii."
AOTOS award recipients are voted on by their industry peers, including international transportation leaders.  Container shipping pioneer Paul F. Richardson, president, Paul F. Richardson Associates, Inc., was also honored at the event.
Since 1942, through a network of worldwide USS Centers, the non-profit, federally chartered USS has provided services overseas for American and international seafarers, promoting the welfare of American seafarers and their dependents, seafarers of all nations, U.S. government, military and civilian personnel and others engaged in the maritime industry.

Carnival Cruise Lines to Operate San Diego's First Year-Round Cruise Program
Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise operator, will launch San Diego's first year-round cruise schedule with four- and five-day Baja Mexico voyages aboard the 2,052-passenger Fun Ship Elation beginning in June 2007. On this program, the Elation will depart Thursdays on four-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, on a rotating schedule.
The Elation will offer 78 voyages annually from San Diego and join the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit which has operated seasonal eight-day Mexican Riviera voyages from San Diego since 2004.
With the Elation and Carnival Spirit, Carnival is expected to carry more than 230,000 passengers annually from San Diego -- the most of any cruise operator. "The Elation's new four- and five-day cruises from San Diego add a whole new dimension to West Coast cruising. Not only is the port within a day's drive of millions of residents within the western U.S., San Diego offers a variety of convenient air options with the airport just minutes away from the cruise terminal," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

‘USS Intrepid’s Trip To Bayonne (New Jersey) For Repairs Aborted
The USS Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, a popular floating attraction alongside the New York Cruise Terminal on Manhattan’s West Side was scheduled to be moved temporarily to Bayonne for refurbishment and repairs. But during the ceremonies held at the carrier’s berth at Pier 86, with six large tugs pulling the ship away from the pier, the Intrepid only moved 15 feet before its propellers became grounded in the muck. “There’s a buildup of mud underneath the vessel,” the senior docking pilot Jeffrey McAllister for McAllister Towing said. “The ship came to a fix [after trying to wiggle it away from the pier] but it is solidly held.”
The foundation that runs the museum reportedly had spent more than $1.2 million to dredge 16,000 cubic yards of silt from underneath the vessel and a quarter of a million dollars more to McAllister Towing for hauling the ship to Bayonne. Most likely, another attempt will be made to dislodge the intrepid, probably during an above-normal high tide on December 8.
The Intrepid was due to return to New York from its two-year-long Cape Bayonne repairs in fall 2008.

Tubez Skates Into Stardust Theatre Aboard ‘Norwegian Pearl’
NCL has announced its new onboard entertainment Tubez that features performers on BMX bikes, skateboards, in-line skates and heelies. The high octane performance, which will play twice nightly onboard Norwegian Pearl, has been choreographed by dancers who have worked with famous names such as Madonna, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Aerosmith, the Beach Boys and Cher. Their work can also be found throughout a number of music videos, television programs and films world wide. The show’s performers will display cutting edge athletics, whilst performing dare devil feats on two and four wheels.
The Stardust Theatre onboard Norwegian Pearl has been specially adapted to incorporate the Tubez show. Ramps have been added to the set that extend out into the audience and video imagery has been especially commissioned to enhance the stage-based action.
The visual elements of Tubez represent slick ‘pop art’ meets the contemporary world of ‘hip hop’ and the stunning set has been designed by the mastermind behind the sets for hit US television programs American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, America’s Got Talent, and Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.
Norwegian Pearl will be launched in the UK with a spectacular gala event in
Southampton on December 1, 2006, before her sailing to Miami for her scheduled inaugural festivities.

Cammell Laird Arbitration Closes With Favorable Outcome For Costa Crociere
Costa Crociere has announced the outcome of its lengthy dispute with Cammell Laird Holdings Plc, which began in 2000. The Arbitration Tribunal hearing the case – composed of the Arbitrators Messrs Professor Pietro Trimarchi (Chairman), Professor Guido Alpa and Lucio Crispo – ruled unanimously that the termination of the agreement between the two parties had occurred due to the non-performance of the contract on the part of the former shipyard, now in administration, and ordered them to pay damages to the cruise company. The Arbitrators’ judgment recognizes in full the correctness of Costa Crociere’s decision to refer the matter to arbitration.
The dispute first arose over the performance of a shipbuilding contract, signed by Costa Crociere and Cammell Laird Holdings Plc, under the terms of which the former British shipbuilder and repair yard was to have built and inserted in the existing ship a hull section for the lengthening of the Costa Classica. The work should have taken place in late 2000 and early 2001. Due to Cammell Laird’s failure to complete the construction in time and to proceed with the lengthening, Costa Crociere decided to suspend the performance of the contract, not sending the ship to the yard. The contract was later cancelled in January 2001.
In the course of the arbitration proceedings, during which Costa Crociere was represented by the lawyers Messrs Andrea D’Angelo, Gian Paolo Maraini and Marco Lopez, the reasons that led Costa Crociere to withdraw from the contract were presented to the Tribunal. The Italian cruise company's arguments were subsequently upheld by the Arbitrators, becoming the basis for their ruling.
Royal Caribbean Reports Third Quarter 2006 Earnings
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced net income for the third quarter of 2006 of $345.4 million, or $1.63 per share, compared to net income of $374.7 million, or $1.64 per share, for the third quarter of 2005.  The third quarter of 2005 includes a net gain of $44.2 million, or $0.19 per share, related to the redemption of the company’s investment in First Choice Holidays PLC.  Revenues for the third quarter of 2006 increased to $1.6 billion from revenues of $1.5 billion in the third quarter of 2005.  
Net Yields increased 2.7% over the third quarter of 2005, consistent with previous guidance of an increase of approximately 3%, driven by strong cruise pricing.  Net Cruise Costs, on a per APCD basis, increased 4.5% compared to the third quarter of 2005.  Fuel accounted for 3.4 percentage points of the increase in Net Cruise Costs. Our “at-the-pump” fuel price averaged $442 per metric ton this quarter and $385 per metric ton in the third quarter of 2005.  Non-fuel costs accounted for the remaining increase of 1.1 percentage points.  This figure also includes expenses associated with the cancellation of one Infinity sailing to replace one of the ship’s propulsion pods. “We are extremely pleased with the performance of our two brands,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer.  “It is particularly gratifying to continue to show such good results despite significantly higher fuel costs.”
Although the company traditionally has losses in the fourth quarter, it is predicting a very good fourth quarter 2006 based on strong yield growth and lower costs.  The company expects Net Yields for the fourth quarter of 2006 will show year over year increases consistent with those seen in the third quarter.  This continued yield improvement demonstrates the strength of our two brands.  
Based upon the expectations and assumptions contained in this outlook section (including Pullmantur), fourth quarter 2006 earnings per share to be $0.20 to $0.25 are expected.
Looking into 2007, overall booking levels and ticket prices are in line with levels achieved at the same time last year.  The beginning of the year is down slightly, with bookings beyond the first quarter more robust.  While it is still too early to quantify projections for 2007, management is optimistic that the current demand environment will result in positive yield performance for the full year.
Fuel prices have recently come down, but remain volatile.  If 2007 at-the-pump fuel prices remain at current levels, the company estimates that its 2007 fuel costs (net of hedging and fuel savings initiatives) will decrease approximately $35 million, despite a 5% growth in capacity. Additionally, we are currently 40% hedged for 2007, and a 10% change in the market price of fuel results in a $26 million change in our fuel costs after taking into account these existing hedges.

World's Largest Cruise Night Generates Estimated $18.5 Million In Sales
The second annual World's Largest CruiseNight (WLCN), the largest one-day travel agency initiative ever launched to promote the value and excitement of seagoing vacations, was a resounding success resulting in 14,860 cruise bookings, which are
expected to generate an estimated $18.5 million in sales. The survey was conducted by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), sponsor of the October 19 event and the cruise industry's chief marketing organization, which counts as its members 20 cruise lines and nearly 17,000 North American travel agencies.
More than 700 CLIA travel agencies across North America hosted 35,000 consumers at a wide array of one-day events, which included luncheons, cocktail parties, dinners, expos, cooking classes and other promotional activities. Tellingly, 89 percent of the agencies that hosted events said they plan to participate in 2007, according to the CLIA survey. “CLIA's second annual World's Largest Cruise Night virtually doubled the sales of the 2005 event," said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. "This is not surprising, considering the professionalism and creativity of our travel agency members and the increasing popularity of cruise vacations."
By year's end, CLIA lines will have launched seven new ships, and CLIA forecasts that the introduction of these vessels into the marketplace coupled with ever-increasing cruise demand among North American consumers will generate 11.7 million cruise passengers, the industry's highest total ever and a half-million guest increase over 2005.
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 20 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe,
secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members nearly 17,000 travel agencies. Website: www.cruising.org

Royal Caribbean Names Executive VP Brian Rice As New CFO
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced that Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Luis Leon will retire from the company, and that Executive Vice President Brian Rice will succeed him as CFO.        Leon has been the company CFO since 2003, when he joined the company. He will assist in the transition, which is expected to be completed before the end of 2006.
Incoming CFO, Brian Rice, has an extensive background in financial operations and revenue-performance management.  He is widely recognized as a leader in revenue management, having overseen the conceptual development and implementation of the company’s highly regarded revenue-management systems and procedures.  He also designed many of the company’s financial-management models, and led numerous operational and financial initiatives.  Rice will be the fourth CFO in Royal Caribbean’s 35-year history.  
            
Royal Caribbean Receives Antitrust Approval On Pullmantur Purchase
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has received antitrust approvals from Spain and Portugal on its planned purchase of Madrid-based cruise and tour operator Pullmantur S.A. With purchase plans on schedule, company officials also unveiled Celebrity Expeditions, an extension of the Celebrity Cruises brand, and a ship swap involving Pullmantur's Blue Dream and Celebrity’s Zenith.  
In August, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. signed an agreement with Pullmantur’s shareholders to buy all the company’s capital stock, subject to regulatory approvals.  Today’s announcement eliminates the last major requirement to finalization. The company anticipates closing in mid-November. “We are pleased that the Spanish and Portuguese authorities have given us the green light on our Pullmantur acquisition,” said Royal Caribbean Chairman and CEO Richard Fain. "It allows us to move ahead with very exciting plans for both Celebrity and Pullmantur.  For Celebrity, it allows us to build out and extend the Celebrity brand with tailored ships for target markets—a long-time strategy for the brand—and, for Pullmantur, it enables us to add needed capacity to the fleet.”
Rounding out the Celebrity brand has been a strong focus for the company, and the expansion of Celebrity Expeditions furthers that strategic objective. When the 718-guest Blue Dream joins Celebrity’s fleet, it will formalize a small ship, destination-driven offering new to the brand, which will operate under the banner of Celebrity Expeditions. Currently, Celebrity has only one ship, the 100-guest Celebrity Xpedition in the Galapagos, in this category.  The line expects the concept to grow over time.    
Blue Dream will be renamed Celebrity Journey, and will join Celebrity’s fleet in April, 2007, sailing Bermuda itineraries from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ, beginning May 5, 2007. Before switching brands, the ship will undergo a one-month revitalization and drydock to incorporate many of Celebrity’s signature elements such as two specialty restaurants; expanded spa services, including in-room offerings; expanded concierge service, including butlers; and additional guest suites. 
Zenith will sail regularly scheduled Caribbean itineraries from Tampa until April 13, 2007, at which time she will sail a Caribbean and Bermuda itinerary from Tampa to Cape Liberty.  The April 13 sailing will be the ship’s last sailing as part of the Celebrity fleet before the ship redeploys to the Pullmantur fleet in June, 2007.  Before re-entering service, the ship will enter drydock where workers will add balcony cabins, enlarge public spaces and customize the ship for Spanish guests.  Once retooled, Zenith will sail seven-night Mediterranean cruises between Athens and Venice.
All guests currently holding bookings on Zenith in Bermuda will be contacted by Celebrity representatives to transfer existing reservations to similar accommodations on Celebrity Journey. Celebrity has set up a toll-free number for travel agents and guests with questions about ship or itinerary changes. That number for group and individual bookings is 1-888-281-9343, featuring prompts to direct callers to areas of interest.  
Celebrity Journey was constructed in France and entered service in May, 2000, as R6. The ship is 30,277-grt and has 358 staterooms. The German-built Zenith entered service in April, 1992, as a 46,811-grt vessel with 673 staterooms. The restyled ship will sail the same Bermuda itineraries originally scheduled for Zenith.

Travel Luggage-Free With Windstar’s Monogram Luggage Service
Beginning October 23, 2006, guests sailing with Windstar Cruises may opt to travel luggage-free to the ship with the new Monogram Luggage Service. “Our guests today are busy people who want to relax and enjoy their cruise vacation,” says Diane Moore, Windstar’s vice president of marketing and sales.  “Our new luggage service is one more way we can help make their entire trip enjoyable.  It’s a better use of the guests’ time, and there’s no need to stand in long lines to check luggage.”
The increase in luggage hassles at the airport—strict weight rules, security checks, and now the restriction on carrying liquids—has been an impetus for Windstar to offer another option for travelers. Guests may now opt for luggage-free travel and have their bags picked up at their door and delivered to their stateroom on the ship, wherever it may be.  Luggage is picked up at home, no boxing or extra packaging required, and shipped via an air valet service.  At the end of the cruise, luggage may be shipped back home.
Windstar has chosen the luggage express service offered by Universal Express, a courier company based in Boca Raton, Florida.  Charges are assessed by weight, destination, and type of service. For example, it will cost $257 to ship a 45-pound suitcase from Florida to Barbados. All bags are insured up to $1,000 at no extra cost with options to insure up to $10,000. Guests may book the luggage service on Windstar’s website at www.windstarcruises.com.  Click on the Monogram Valet Luggage Service link.

Quark Expeditions Purchases ‘M/S Sarpik Ittuk’
Quark Expeditions has completed its purchase of the vessel M/S Sarpik Ittuk, an ice-strengthened expedition ship with an honored tradition of Arctic navigation. The purchase of the vessel from its former owners, Arctic Umiaq Line of Nuuk, Greenland, was concluded this week by the newly-formed Nova Cruising Ltd, a Quark-associated company. “Sarpik Ittuk is perfectly suited to expedition cruising in the polar regions”, says Patrick Shaw, President & CEO of Quark Expeditions “We will employ the vessel in Antarctica during the austral summer. We will also operate adventure cruising programs in Greenland, the Baltic Sea, and Norway for one of our client tour operators, Denmark-based tour operator Albatros Travel”, he adds.
The M/S Sarpik Ittuk will sail under a Bahamas flag. Technical management of the vessel is provided by International Shipping Partners of Miami.
Built in 1992 for Arctic navigation, M/S Sarpik Ittuk carries 96 passengers in 44 outside cabins. The ship underwent major engineering work in the winter of 1999/2000, which was followed by extensive renovation in the spring of 2006. This latest renovation involved customization work to enhance the ship’s expedition facilities, the addition of a glass-enclosed observation lounge, and the refitting of all passengers cabins with new beds, furniture, and fixtures.
Since 1991, Quark Expeditions has been establishing a tradition of firsts in polar expedition travel; as the first to transit the Northeast Passage with commercial passengers; the first to take travelers to the far side of Antarctica; and the first to circumnavigate the Antarctic continent with guests.  Quark is also recognized for its diverse fleet; the largest fleet of passenger vessels in the polar regions – including the
only polar icebreaker operating as an adventure ship in Antarctica.  The fleet enables Quark to offer the widest variety of polar itineraries of any other adventure company in the world, and the greatest number of departures to Antarctica.   In October 2006, Quark was named a recipient of National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” for their “Emperor Penguin Safari”.   In the March 2006 edition, Outside magazine named the “Emperor Penguin Safari” as one of the New Trips of a Lifetime.

Princess Cruises Puts MICROS 9700 HMS at the Helm
MICROS Systems, Inc. a leading provider of information technology solutions for the hospitality and retail industries, announced that Princess Cruises, a premier brand of Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL) , has selected the MICROS 9700 Hospitality and Retail Management System (HMS) as its next generation technology foundation. Four ships have deployed MICROS 9700 including the Crown Princess, which deployed 90 MICROS Workstation 4 terminals throughout its food & beverage operations. Two additional ships, Star Princess and Golden Princess, will deploy the MICROS 9700 solution by year end. "Princess Cruises has maintained a long term partnership with MICROS, deploying the MICROS 8700 throughout its fleet 10 years ago," stated Mark Dundore, Vice President of Application Systems for Princess Cruises. "The MICROS 9700 allowed us to leverage our existing custom reports, hardware and interfaces, which saved time and money in the upgrade process. All of our upgrades will utilize the legacy hardware that is already deployed providing a significantly lower total cost of system ownership." By enabling Princess Cruises to take full advantage of its previous MICROS equipment, savings for interface training, programming, and hardware have contributed to the cruise line's return on investment.
MICROS Systems, Inc. provides enterprise applications for the hospitality and retail industries worldwide. Over 220,000 MICROS systems are currently installed in table and quick service restaurants, hotels, motels, casinos, leisure and entertainment, and retail operations in more than 130 countries, and on all seven continents. In addition, MICROS provides property management systems, central reservation and customer information solutions under the brand MICROS-Fidelio for more than 20,000 hotels worldwide, as well as point- of-sale and loss prevention products through its subsidiary Datavantage for more than 50,000 specialty retail stores worldwide.

Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention Scheduled For March 12-15, 2007
The 23rd annual Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention will be in session from March 12 to 15, 2007 at the Miami, Florida, Convention Hall. The global exhibition and conference draws more than 9,000 attendees and more than 900 exhibiting companies from over 100 countries.
In addition to a number of national pavilions, the exhibition also features sections highlighting entertainment technology, food and beverage, technology, design, ship services, hotel operations, ship equipment and destinations. New to the exhibition this year is a Superyacht Pavilion, showcasing all aspects of this burgeoning industry.
The conference is to feature the third annual International Super Yacht Symposium with a two-day series of sessions March 14-15 held in conjunction with the convention. The symposium has grown from a few targeted sessions into a full two-day symposium of panel discussions offering valuable insights into this growing sector.
Conference sessions cover pertinent industry issues including shipbuilding and design, product development and distribution, shipboard management, technology and the future of the cruise industry.

Connectivity at Sea—Windstar Adds Cell Phone Service
Windstar Cruises will offer cell phone service at sea on all three of its ships beginning with the Wind Surf in December. “It’s vital to our business that we listen to our customers and keep up with their changing lifestyles and expectations,” says Diane Moore, Windstar’s vice president of marketing and sales. “People are leading busier lives, and not everybody wants to turn off the outside world when they step aboard.  Those who do still can of course, but this is just one more amenity we are offering our guests on board.”
The 308-guest msy Wind Surf will be the first ship to have the network installed.  The work will be done during the upcoming dry dock and ready for service on the December 16, 2006 sailing.  It will be installed on the 148-guest msy Wind Spirit in April 2007 and on its sister ship msy Wind Star in December 2007.
Windstar has contracted with Wireless Maritime Services for a roaming network on board the ships.   Guests will be able to make and receive calls while at sea using their own mobile phone.  Text messaging and GPRS data service is also available.  No special software is needed, but guests will need to check that their phone is enabled for International roaming with their cellular carrier, and the carrier must have a roaming agreement with Wireless Maritime Services. The network supports phones with GSM and CDMA technology. Charges will be determined by the guest’s cellular service carrier and will appear on their regular monthly phone bill.
In order to maintain Windstar’s atmosphere of casual elegance and intimate retreat, guests will be advised of cell phone courtesy guidelines.  Cell phone service is intended primarily for guest use in the privacy of their own stateroom.  Talking on cell phones will not be permitted in public areas such as dining areas or lounges, and guests will be asked to set their phone’s ringer to vibrate when in public areas.

Lindblad Expeditions Names Communications Manager
Lindblad Expeditions has named Brian Major Communications Manager, effective immediately. Major joins a rapidly growing communications team at Lindblad's New York headquarters, reporting to Mary Jo Viederman, Vice President of Communications.
Major most recently served as director of public relations for the Cruise Lines International Association, a position he held since December 2003. Earlier, he was account supervisor at the New York-based public relations firm Lou Hammond & Associates, with responsibility for Norwegian Cruise Line. Major's long journalism career includes more than a decade as cruise editor of Travel Weekly and Travel Agent magazines. "Lindblad Expeditions is at the forefront of the expedition travel sector to the world's most remote and pristine destinations. Lindblad voyages feature world-class scientists and researchers, utilize the latest exploration tools, and emphasize sustainable tourism," said Major. "I am excited to join this cutting-edge expedition company and look forward to working with international travel, lifestyle and environmental media monitoring the latest travel trends."

TUI Predicts Hapag Lloyd To Post Loss For 2006
German container line Hapag Lloyd is expected to post a loss for the full year caused by a combination of deteriorating market conditions and the financial burden of the CP Ships integration, parent group TUI stated this week in several press reports. Restructuring costs amount to €100 million ($127.8 million) this year, the company said, while freight rates remain under pressure especially in the Asia trades. Hapag’s operating result plunged to a deficit of €25 million in the third quarter compared with a surplus of  €95million a year ago, while TUI’s tourism activities yielded a stable profit of €584 million.
As a result, the ocean carrier’s reverse in fortunes may prompt renewed calls from large investors for TUI to sell its liner business to enable it to focus on tourism.
The number of containers carried remained unchanged at around 1.24Mteu in the quarter, while the average freight rate across all trade lanes slipped by 4.2% to $1,431/teu, TUI said.

Carnival Appoints Vice President For Caribbean Relations
Gordon Buck, a 20-year veteran of the cruise industry, has been appointed to the newly created position of vice president – Caribbean relations at Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines.  In this capacity, Buck will oversee the line’s port agents and port contracts for all Carnival ships operating in the Caribbean, Yucatan and South and Central America.  He will also serve as a liaison with local government agencies in these regions. “As the Carnival organization has grown, so has our need for a dedicated liaison with the dozens of Caribbean destinations where our ships sail. Gordon is the ideal candidate for this job, possessing extensive experience and expertise in all aspects of Caribbean cruise operations,” said Brendan Corrigan, Carnival’s senior vice president – marine operations.

Aker Yards Implements New Business Model For Its Cruise & Ferries Business
Six months after Chantiers de l'Atlantique was acquired by Aker Yards and integrated in its Cruise & Ferries business area, Aker Yards is now presenting the results of an in-depth analysis that, it hopes, will produce a smarter, more productive and innovative way of doing business and combining the best of the long traditions of Finnish and French ship building.
 The results of this analysis are some 150 key initiatives which would require 3 years to be implemented, combined with the record high order book will create some 260 new jobs at Aker Yards in Finland, which are expected to be secured during 2007.
In France, it is estimated that some 2,000 new jobs will be created in the maritime cluster in the Saint Nazaire area. Out of these 2,000 new jobs 640 will be created at the shipyard itself, mainly for outfitting coordination and steel production positions. The company looks forward to work with the local region and community to stimulate the development of these new jobs.
 The new business model also translates into some organizational changes in France, for which a dialog with the employees representatives have been started. Such discussions are expected to continue until the beginning of January 2007. It is estimated that some 240 employees (mainly white collars) will need to change jobs within the next three years. Aker Yards will provide training and support to accompany these people to change job.
The €5.5 billion order book of Aker Yards’ Cruise & Ferries unit consists of 18 newbuilds: the world`s three largest cruise vessels for Royal Caribbean; two new type big cruise vessels for NCL; four luxury cruise vessels for MSC Cruises; a cruise vessel and two fast day ferries for Color Line; a cruise ferry and a fast passenger ferry for Tallink; a ropax and a passenger ferry for Brittany Ferries; a fast passenger/car ferry for Viking Line; and a small ropax for Morbihan county. In addition, there are four options; existing with RCCL, MSC, NCL and Color Line for ships.

Pod Replacement Scheduled For ‘Queen Mary 2’ This Month In Hamburg
The Queen Mary 2 is headed to Hamburg this week for dry docking at Blohm + Voss Repair where one of her 270 ton Mermaid pods will be reinstalled. The Cunard liner has been operating throughout the summer using three pods after having the damaged pod removed at an earlier docking at B+V in May.
While at Blohm & Voss, sprinkler systems will be added to all of the ship’s balconies. The bridge wings will also be extended by several feet.

Porthole Magazine Readers Choice Awards For 2006 Announced
Porthole Magazine’s 8th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards were announced earlier this month.  There are 44 categories this year so Click
http://porthole.com/html/ReadersChoice/Awards_ReadersChoice2006-1.htm to find out which line won what.

‘Ocean Village’ Rated Top Of The Pops By Berlitz
The new Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising 2007, published in November, has rated the original Ocean Village ship and AIDAblu, which will join the Ocean Village fleet as Ocean Village Two in April 2007, as the best ships in the mainstream or ‘popular’ cruise sector.
The Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising ranks the ships on levels of service, entertainment, cruise destinations, food, the overall look and feel of the ship and the accommodation. Points are awarded for each category and are added together to give an overall score out of 2000. Of the seven ships which travel agents usually class as offering mainstream cruises, AIDAblu - which will become Ocean Village Two - came top with an overall score of 1360 while Ocean Village came second with a  score of 1351, more than 20 points above its nearest rival. Says Peter Shanks, Managing Director, Ocean Village, “Getting the Best in Class accreditation from an independent and trusted travel brand such as Berlitz is a real feather in our cap. The mainstream cruise sector is the fastest growing segment of the cruise industry and now accounts for around 25% of the UK cruise market. Ocean Village has always been at the forefront of this sector, representing the best option in terms of quality, value for money and experience, and now we have the Berlitz rating to support our claims.”
The Berlitz Best in Class accolade comes hot on the heels of Ocean Village winning Best Cruise Line in the Observer and Guardian Travel Award 2006 in October.

Holland America Line Promotes Meadows, Calkins and Goodwin
Holland America Line has announced several key senior management promotions effective December 1, 2006.  Richard D. Meadows is promoted to Executive Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Guest Programs.  Larry Calkins is named Senior Vice President, Finance and Information Technology.  Paul Goodwin is appointed Senior Vice President, Onboard Revenue Services and Tour Operations.  All will report directly to Stein Kruse, President and Chief Executive Officer, Holland America Line. “These well-deserved promotions will enhance the alignment of our senior management team to meet the increasing expectations of our distribution system, our guests and our company supported services,” said Kruse.
Richard D. Meadows, a 20-plus year veteran of the cruise industry, re-joined Holland America Line as Senior Vice President, Marketing and Sales in 2004.  In his newly expanded role, Meadows will assume the added responsibility for Guest Programs, serving as Executive Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Guest Programs.  This change aligns the Guest Programs function within the overall Marketing and Sales umbrella, providing a greater focus on serving the needs of our guests and our distribution system partners.  Brendan Vera, Vice President, Guest Programs, will report to Meadows.
Larry Calkins, who has served as Holland America Line’s Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer since 1989, has been named Senior Vice President, Finance and Information Technology.  In addition to his responsibility as Chief Financial Officer, he will provide overall coordination of the company’s Information Technology initiatives.  Ron Somoza, Vice President, Information Technology, will report to Calkins. 
Paul Goodwin joined Holland America Line as Vice President, On Board Revenue in 2003.  Goodwin’s new role as Senior Vice President, Onboard Revenue Services and Tour Operations, expands his responsibility to include all world-wide pre- and post-tour and hotel operations, including all of the components used for Holland America Line’s Alaska/Yukon tours and hotels.  David Beagle, Vice President Transportation, and Steve Leonard, Vice President, West mark Hotels, will report directly to Goodwin

 

October 30, 2006

New Cruise Facility For Hong Kong Proposed
Hong Kong is hoping to develop new cruise terminal facilities at Kai Tak, a former airport closed since 1998, announced Hong Kong's Secretary for Economic Development and Labour, Stephen Ip this week. "The development of new cruise terminal facilities is important for Hong Kong to capture the growth of the cruise industry in the Asia Pacific Region, and sustain its development as a regional cruise hub," said Ip. “It has always been the Government's intention to develop new cruise terminal facilities at Kai Tak, as it is the only site within Victoria Harbour with the capability to provide two or more alongside berths without reclamation.”
The new cruise terminal and tourism-related facilities will be built on approximately 18 acres at the southern end of the former runway, Ip said. The government will offer land adjacent to the cruise terminal for the development of tourism-related facilities, such as hotels, shopping malls and conference facilities.
The Government will develop the new cruise terminal through an open tender. The successful bidder will, at his own cost, form the site as well as design, build, and operate the berthing and supporting facilities. These will include reconstruction of the existing seawall, and development of two alongside berths which can meet the need of mega cruise vessels up to a displacement of 100,000 tons. Together, they aim at capitalizing on the cruise industry trend of building larger cruise vessels.
The first berth at Kai Tak is expected to be completed in 2012.

Silversea Introduces New Ultra-Personalized Cruise Concept
Silversea Cruises has announced plans to offer a groundbreaking ultra-personalized and ultra-inclusive vacation experience.  Called Privileged Passage, this exclusive new style of ultra-luxury cruise travel is set to debut on a select test voyage in 2007.  
The company, long recognized as a luxury travel innovator and trendsetter with its flexible open dining concept, generous all-inclusive shipboard policy and unique Personalized Voyages program, is planning to take things to the next level by offering guests even greater personal freedom and flexibility in customizing their own cruise experience to suit their personal lifestyle, while incorporating an expanded and enhanced array of complimentary amenities and benefits.
The new Privileged Passage concept is designed to showcase an active-lifestyle luxury cruise as a unique, nontraditional vacation experience.  The company's goal is to create an environment that allows guests to enjoy everything that has made Silversea a leader in luxury travel, along with a totally unstructured, non-regimented, casual and relaxed onboard atmosphere.  "In order to attract more first-time and nontraditional cruisers, we want to completely break the mold of the conventional cruise vacation and change travelers' perceptions about the rigidity and formality often associated with cruising," said Albert Peter, Silversea's chief executive officer.  "Due to the unique size of our vessels, we're able to take full advantage of our hardware to offer guests an intimate vacation experience that is truly personalized and designed by the guest to fit his or her individual lifestyle . . .we’re opening the door to many travelers who never thought about booking a cruise before.  If this pilot cruise is as well-received as we expect, we plan to offer more voyages of this type.”
The Privileged Passage program will do away with formal nights and receptions.  Guests will not have to worry about packing a tuxedo or evening dress; instead, they'll enjoy the freedom to dress in comfortable casual resort attire throughout the voyage.  Guests will find it easier to design their day with extended open hours for the fitness center and spa.  They'll also be able to request Early Embarkation and Late Disembarkation at no additional cost.  Silversea will also make it easier for guests to personalize their experiences ashore by offering a selection of complimentary tours specially designed to intimately connect travelers to the places and cultures they visit.  Other enhancements will include more casual-style entertainment featuring contemporary bands, jazz ensembles and lively mix shows by disc jockeys from around the world.
The Privileged Passage program is set to debut on a test basis aboard Silver Whisper's Classic Reflections voyage (4710), departing April 9, 2007.

NCL Names Rosie O’ Donnell Godmother Of New ‘Norwegian Pearl’
NCL Corporation has announced that Emmy® Award winner Rosie O’Donnell will serve as the godmother of its newest ship Norwegian Pearl. The popular talk show host and actress will christen NCL’s newest Freestyle Cruising vessel in a ceremony at the Port of Miami on Saturday, December 16.
NCL has also donated the use of Norwegian Pearl to O’Donnell’s charity, Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation, for a one-night charity event on Friday, December 15. Guests onboard the one-night cruise will enjoy an evening of culinary delights, a Broadway-style show in the Stardust Theater with O’Donnell and guest entertainers direct from Broadway performing, a comedy show by popular comedy troupe Second City and a sail-away cocktail party on the pool deck. “We are so pleased that Rosie will serve as Godmother of Norwegian Pearl,” said Colin Veitch, NCL Corporation’s president and CEO. “Rosie is a talented entertainer and dedicated philanthropist, and both these qualities will be front and center during the christening and charity event of Norwegian Pearl.  We will raise a lot of money for her charitable foundation, which will allow her to expand on the broad range of work already undertaken to improve the quality of life for children all over America.” 
NCL will donate the use of Norwegian Pearl, inclusive of all food, beverage and shipboard entertainment for the one-night event with 100 percent of the ticket revenue being given to the charity.
Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation is a public, not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping America’s kids by supporting non-profit programs that serve disadvantaged children. Since 1997, Rosie's For All Kids Foundation has awarded more than $15 million in Early Childhood Care and Education program grants to over 1,100 nonprofit organizations that have helped provide important opportunities for thousands of America’s kids in need. 
Tickets to the gala fundraiser go on sale Monday, October 30, 2006 with prices starting at $250 per person for an inside cabin and up to $3,000 per person for a Courtyard Villa. In addition, NCL will offer businesses the opportunity to purchase special packages that include a reception with O’Donnell and VIP gift bags. Package number one at $10,000 includes one penthouse, two mini-suites and four balconies and package number two at $5,000 includes two mini-suites and two balconies. For reservations, call NCL at 800-327-7030.

Second Issue Of Passenger Ship Focus Now Available
Lloyd's Register has published the second issue of its Passenger Ship Focus magazine. The publication contains 12 pages of information and news relevant to the passenger ship sector. Issue 2, October 2006, covers a range of topics:
• an overview of developments within the various sectors of the passenger ship industry - cruise, cruise ferry/ropax and yachts - and a look at changes in legislation impacting the industry
• Holland America Line's Signature of Excellence program
• the development of podded propulsion research and knowledge
• the necessary steps in any cruise ship refurbishment project
• how to enhance ship energy efficiency
• eliminating noise to ensure passenger privacy and comfort.
Information on Passenger Ship Focus may be accessed via the Lloyd's Register Group website www.lr.org.

Virtual Tours Now Available On Norwegian Coastal Voyage Website
Norwegian Coastal Voyage, known for sailing the spectacular fjord-filled west coast of Norway year-round as well as expedition cruises to the remote destinations of Antarctica, Greenland and Spitsbergen, has added a way for consumers visiting its web page, www.norwegiancoastalvoyage.us, to tour the public areas of any of the fleet’s 11 ships, aptly named “Virtual Tours.”  Visitors will find the link to the tours at the top of the web site’s home page.
An interactive experience, “Virtual Tours” gives new and returning passengers the opportunity to control the view, taking in the entire scene as if they were standing in the middle of the room looking around.  The 360º horizontal and vertical capability is controlled by the viewer through the use of their mouse.  Whether it’s the original artwork that adorns many of the public areas of the ships, the glass and marble atrium on the MS Midnastol or the two-story panoramic lounge on the MS Trollfjord, visitors to the web site can get the view of being aboard.
After taking a look at any of the ships, visitors can obtain additional information about a specific ship by going to the “Fleet” page on the web site.  Those wishing to see a brochure without delay may now safely download one in PDF format by clicking on “Brochure Request” at the top the home page (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to view them).  The brochures appear on the consumer’s computer exactly as they would if ordered through the mail and may be printed out or even forwarded to other interested friends and family members.  The same page allows for signing up to receive periodic e-mail notification of offers and discounts.

Neil Palomba Named COO of MSC Cruises (USA)
MSC Cruises has announced that Neil Palomba has been appointed to the position of chief operating officer (COO) of MSC Cruises USA.  In his new role, Palomba will report to Rick Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises USA. 
Most recently, Palomba was charged with overseeing the building of the MSC Lirica and MSC Opera and their transfer from the shipyard to the MSC Cruises fleet, as well as taking delivery of MSC Armonia (formerly the European Vision) when it was purchased by the line in 2004.
In his new role, Palomba will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Fort Lauderdale-based North American general sales and marketing arm of MSC Crociere SA with a focus on organizing the U.S. operations to promote profitable growth. "Neil demonstrates exceptional organizational and managerial skills that are certain to take MSC Cruises to new heights," said CEO Sasso. 
 
Peter Deilmann Cruises Expands London Office
Luxury river and ocean cruise specialist, Peter Deilmann Cruises, is poised to take the UK and Irish travel market by storm, having expanded its London-based team, introduced a new CRM system and added more square footage to its central London offices.
The new and improved London team is headed up by the new Managing Director, Mark Lewsey, who joined the company in April 2006 with a wealth of experience of the travel industry including Amadeus, Sun Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
To further aid Peter Deilmann Cruises’ growth objectives in the UK and Irish market, the company has invested in a new CRM and telephone system which will see the booking process streamlined for travel agents, making it faster and simpler to book a river or ocean cruise than ever before.  “This is an extremely exciting time for Peter Deilmann Cruises in both the river and ocean cruising markets. The extension of our London team, expansion of the office space and installation of new CRM and telephone systems have solidified our position as the leading luxury river and ocean cruise operator in the UK & Ireland and has set the groundwork in place to meet our growth targets. As a new, young, dynamic team with an exemplary product in the fastest growing sector of the industry, I am confident that 2007 will be our most successful year yet.”

Godmother Named For New ‘Carnival Freedom’
Kathy Ireland, whose career path has taken her from the international runways of modeling to the boardroom of her own billion dollar business, has been named godmother of Carnival Cruise Lines’ new 110,000-ton Carnival Freedom, scheduled to launch European service in March 2007. In her role as godmother, Kathy will break a ceremonial bottle of champagne across the ship’s bow during a naming ceremony scheduled to take place in Venice, Italy, March 4, 2007, immediately prior to a gala overnight reception for dignitaries and travel agents. “Kathy Ireland is an excellent choice for the godmother of this magnificent new ship. Not only is she extremely successful as both a model and businesswoman, but she lends her support to a wide variety of charitable causes and philanthropic organizations,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. 
Ireland is chief designer and CEO of Kathy Ireland Worldwide, a Los Angeles- based company whose mission is “…finding solutions for families, especially busy moms.” 
In the 1980s, Ireland worked as a supermodel, appearing on the covers of countless magazines, including Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar and Sports Illustrated.           

Seabourn President Deborah L. Natansohn Suffers Fatal Heart Attack
Deborah L. Natansohn, the president and chief operating officer of Seabourn Cruise Line, passed away on October 24 at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with her family at her side. Natansohn, 53, had been hospitalized after suffering a heart attack on Sunday, October 22.
Natansohn was appointed president of Seabourn Cruise Line in July of 2004, and guided Seabourn to the most successful period in its history. That success recently led to the signing of a letter of intent for the company to build two new ships.
Natansohn came to Seabourn from Cunard Line, which she had joined in November 2000, as senior vice president of sales and marketing, responsible for marketing and sales programs throughout the Americas and for the unprecedented success of the launch of the Queen Mary 2.
A well-known travel industry veteran, Natansohn became the first female cruise line president in the United States when she was named president of Orient Lines in 1998. She also served as vice president of marketing for Ocean Cruise Lines and Pearl Cruises, and as executive vice president at Orient Lines from 1992 until she became the line's president.

Panama Canal Expansion Gets A Thumbs Up By Panamanians
This week, Panamanians overwhelmingly endorsed a plan in a national referendum to modernize the aging canal. The 525 billion-dollar-project, which is expected to begin in 2007, will double the canal’s capacity by adding a third set of locks that are 40 percent longer and 60 percent wider than the current locks. The third lane would be added with new three-step locks at either end. The new locks will have three sets of reutilization basins, which can raise and lower water levels with the use of pumps for each step.
American vessels remain the biggest users of the canal followed by Chinese and Japanese vessels. The canal handles about 4 percent of global trade.
Panama expects to go it alone in the construction and not rely on foreign governments for help. The project, according an article in the New York Times, will be financed by loans and higher fees charged to shippers. The canal’s completion is slated for 2014—a century to the year after it was constructed by the United States in 1914.
A second canal also may become a reality in the Central American region. Nicaragua’s government announced in September that it was planning to build its own trans-ocean canal, though analysts doubt that its $18 billion public/private project which would use the 60-mile-wide Lake Nicaragua, has much chance of getting constructed.

The ‘Pacific Dawn’ Will Introduce Personal Choice Cruising
P&O Cruises/Australia  is celebrating 75 years of cruising from Australia with the launch of a range of exciting new cruise options, including a new season of Asian cruises from Singapore and the introduction of the ground-breaking personalized cruising concept— Your Choice Cruising. The initiatives further cement P&O Cruises' commitment to the Australian market and build on its decision to introduce Australia's first superliner, the stunning 70,000-ton Pacific Dawn, to its fleet next year.
The debut of the 2050-passenger Pacific Dawn, which will be the biggest and most modern cruise ship to be based year round in Australia, will increase P&O Cruises Australia's fleet capacity by 65 per cent. Pacific Dawn will sail alongside P&O Cruises' existing cruise ships, the 1900-passenger Pacific Sun and the 1350-passenger Pacific Star.

MAIB Concludes Its Investigation Of ‘Star Princess’ Balcony Fire
This month the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) in the UK concluded its investigation of the fatal balcony fire on board Star Princess in March.
The report stated that “the fire started on an external stateroom balcony sited on deck 10 in the center of main vertical zone 3 on the vessel’s port side. It was probably caused by a discarded cigarette-end heating combustible materials on a balcony which smoldered for about 20 minutes before flames developed. Once established, the fire spread rapidly along adjacent balconies and, assisted by a strong wind, up to decks 11 and 12 and onto stateroom balconies fire zones 3 and 4 within six minutes. After a further 24 minutes, the fire spread to zone 5. The fire also spread into the staterooms as the heat of the fire shattered the glass in stateroom balcony doors but was contained by each stateroom’s fire-smothering system, the restricted combustibility of their contents, and their thermal boundaries. As the fire progressed, large amounts of dense black smoke were generated from the combustible materials on the balconies and the balcony partitions. This smoke entered the adjacent staterooms and alleyways, and hampered the evacuation of the passengers, particularly on deck 12. One passenger died as a result of smoke inhalation, and 13 others were treated for the effects of the smoke.”
A number of factors were identified. MAIB said that “although the balconies met the fire protection requirements of SOLAS 11-2, the basic principles of this ruling did not apply to these external areas. These included the balconies polycarbonate partitions, polyurethane deck tiles and the plastic furniture that were highly combustible and produced large quantities of black smoke when ignited.” It also pointed out that “the glass doors separating the staterooms from the balconies were neither fire rated to meet with the requirements of an A class division, nor were they self-closing.”
Furthermore, the report said, “the balconies crossed main zone fire boundaries, both horizontally and vertically without structural/thermal barriers at the zone or deck boundaries.” And “no fire detection or fire suppression systems were fitted on the balconies.”
“The fire was extinguished within 1.5 hours after it had started. The crew fought the fire with waterhoses from adjacent external areas, and from internal alleyways. Difficulty was experienced in reaching the fire due to the construction and partitioning of the balcony areas. A total of 79 staterooms were condemned after the fire and a further 218 were damaged by fire, smoke and water. The damaged area covered three vertical fire zones on five decks.”
Princess Cruises Issues Statement In Response To MAIB Report  
“We acknowledge the report issued today by the United Kingdom's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) regarding the fire aboard Star Princess which occurred on March 23, 2006, and can confirm that we have fully cooperated with the inquiry into the incident. We remain, as from the first day, devastated that the fire occurred and we wish to again express our deepest sympathy to the family of the passenger who passed away, and to our other passengers and crew who were affected.
“Immediately following the fire, and during the past seven months, we have striven to do everything in our power to ensure a similar incident could never happen again.
In our opinion, the report issued today provides a professional and balanced overview of the various aspects of the incident. It points out the many safeguards and procedures…. However, we also acknowledge that the report shows there were lessons to be learned by us, and that some aspects of our response to the fire, and related training, needed to be addressed. We can confirm that we immediately took corrective action and implemented procedures which addressed the shortcomings detailed in the report. Today, there are no recommendations made by MAIB that Princess has not met.
“The measures that are now in place across our fleet will enable us to prevent, quickly detect and extinguish any fire. These include specialized training of our crew, the removal of combustible material from our balconies, and the addition of suppression and detection systems on our balconies.
“We want to assure our passengers that their safety, as well as that of our crew, is our first and most important priority, and we will continually evaluate all our procedures on an ongoing basis to ensure their well-being when they are on board our ships. “

 

easyCruise Vacations Available At Auction On eBay From $1.88
In a ground-breaking deal, Stelios’ innovative new brand, easyCruise, and eBay announced that  in the first partnership of its kind in the world of cruising, the public will be able to book their easyCruise holiday on eBay. The deal will see eBay users being able to buy cruises on both an auction and buy-it-now’ basis.  The offer will be available to people all over the world via ‘local’ eBay sites based in the USA, UK, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, India, Germany and Australia.
The easyCruise offering on eBay will mean that you can now buy online a cruise to any of easyCruise’s destinations, which currently include the French & Italian Riviera and Holland & Belgium. A Caribbean itinerary will also be available within the next few weeks.  While auction prices will start at just $1.88 (£1), buy it now prices start from $58 (£30) per person, for a two night break and $73 (£39) per person for a three night break, based on two people sharing a standard cabin.
The exclusive deal has been facilitated by Cultuzz, the only global technology company able to launch content live on multiple eBay market places simultaneously.  Michael Hughes, Global Director of Sales & Marketing commented: “This deal will see easyCruise available in local currencies and local languages simultaneously.  It is a very exciting concept and gives consumers a completely new way to book their holiday.”

Seabourn Cruise Line Orders Two New Ultra Luxury Ships
Seabourn Cruise Line announced earlier this month that it will build two new, ultra luxury ships, for delivery in spring 2009 and 2010.  Seabourn, a division of Miami-based Carnival Corporation & plc signed a letter of intent for the project with shipbuilder T. Mariotti S.p.A. of Genoa, Italy. The sister ships will have an all-in U.S. dollar cost of $250 million each.
Each of the 32,000-GRT ships will accommodate all guests in 225 luxury suites, ninety percent of which will offer private verandas.  Combined, the two vessels will more than double Seabourn's current fleet capacity of 634 berths. "Our brand has been experiencing more demand in the marketplace than we could fulfill for quite some time now," stated Deborah L. Natansohn, president of Seabourn at the time of the announcement. "The new ships will allow us to bring the unique Seabourn experience to a larger number of people, particularly the highly affluent and active baby boomer generation just now heading towards the more leisurely years of their lives."
According to Micky Arison, Chairman and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, "This order represents our confidence in the luxury segment of the cruising market, which has shown significant and consistent revenue growth in recent years, with robust future potential. Through our own and independent research, we know that the luxury consumer views the Seabourn brand as the absolute ultimate in leisure travel.  This new generation of yacht-like ships will secure its position at the top of the cruise industry pyramid for many years to come."
The design specifications call for hulls 650 feet long, with a beam of 84 feet and a draft of 21 feet. The ships will be powered by diesel-generated electricity and operate with twin screw propellers, with a service speed of 19 knots. They will be equipped with two bow thrusters to enhance maneuverability and two stabilizers. The ships will also be "green ships" employing advanced wastewater treatment technology.

Carnival Corporation & Plc Increases Dividend By 10 Percent
Carnival Corporation & plc announced that it has declared a dividend of $0.275 per share—an increase of 10 percent. The boards approved a record date for the quarterly dividend of November 17, 2006, and a payment date of December 8, 2006.
Holders of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ADSs will receive the dividend payable in U.S. dollars.  The dividend for Carnival plc ordinary shares will be payable in U.S. dollars or sterling.  In the absence of instructions or elections to the contrary, holders of Carnival plc ordinary shares will automatically receive the dividend in sterling. Dividends payable in sterling will be converted from U.S. dollars at the exchange rate quoted by the Bank of England in London at 12 noon on December 1, 2006.  Holders of Carnival plc ordinary shares wishing to receive their dividend in U.S. dollars or participate in the Carnival plc Dividend Reinvestment Plan must elect to do so by November 17, 2006.      

Artwork On New ‘Carnival Freedom’ On Display In New York Art Gallery
Months before the new Carnival Freedom debuts in Venice in March 2007, watercolors and pencil studies of nine murals commissioned for the s 110,000-ton SuperLiner will be displayed in an exclusive exhibit at Flomenhaft Gallery in Manhattan next month. The works are part of a six-week-long exhibit of figurative oil paintings and sculptures entitled Women Warriors: The Yin and Yang by Massachusetts-based artist Joan Barber, who is among several talented artists responsible for creating the diverse multi-million-dollar art collection aboard the new 2,974-passenger vessel.
Barber’s studies of the recently completed murals, which will adorn the Carnival Freedom’s central staircase landings, portray recreational aspects of the 1940s post-war American culture and reflect the optimism and hope for the future of that era.  The works evoke a formative and familiar past, with colorfully dressed women and children at leisure in backyards, beaches, parks, gardens and small towns.
Barber’s paintings will be on display at the Flomenhaft Gallery in Manhattan’s Chelsea district from November 2 to December 20, 2006. For additional information on the exhibit, contact Elly Flomenhaft of the Flomenhaft Gallery at 212-268-4952 or visit www.flomenhaftgallery.com. The Flomenhaft Gallery is located at 547 W. 27 St. in New York.

Fincantieri Plans Multimillion Dollar Shipyard Modernizaton
Shipbuilder Fincantieri plans to invest up to €700m ($820 million) over the next five years in modernizing its existing shipyards in Italy, refitting repair facilities beyond its borders, and expanding into contiguous markets with higher profit margins than in its core businesses.

Star Cruises Wins Top Travel Award For 9th Time
Star Cruises, won the award for Best Cruise Operator in Asia-Pacific for a record ninth time at the TTG 17th Annual Travel Awards 2006 held in Pattaya, Thailand on October 12. The annual award ceremony is the highlight of the travel trade calendar which honors the best in Asia’s hospitality, tourism, services and travel industry.
Since its inception in 1993, Star Cruises has been at the forefront in pioneering the concept and development of cruising in the Asia–Pacific having achieved many notable ‘firsts’. Over the last 13 years Star Cruises initiated the revolutionary concept of freestyle cruising which offers total flexibility and freedom for cruisers onboard. From Asia-Pacific, it has extended its reach with the recent deployment of one of its vessels, SuperStar Librato to the Eastern Mediterranean this summer.
The Star Cruises Group operates under the internationally recognized brands of Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America, Orient Lines and Cruise Ferries cruising to more than 200 exciting destinations and exotic islands across the globe. “It gives us great honor and pride to receive this award this year again and for the past 8 years as we continue to passionately provide world-class cruise experiences with excellent service and safety standards in the exploration of the fascinating destinations around the world,” said Mr. Chong Chee Tut, Star Cruises’ Chief Operating Officer.

Imperial Majesty Cruise Line Forms Corporate Meeting Division
Offering Florida's only two-night cruises to The Bahamas, Imperial Majesty Cruise Line has announced the formation of its Corporate Meeting Division. The announcement was made by Arthur Pollack, president of Imperial Majesty Cruise Line, who said the formation of this division was in response to the many local corporations seeking affordable, short- term trips for motivational, incentive, and training programs. "Many companies have come to us in recent months asking us to help them plan corporate events," said Pollack. "With gas prices rising, it has become increasingly cost prohibitive to travel by car to destinations throughout Florida. Firms in South Florida see the advantages of coming to Port Everglades and cruising.
Imperial Majesty Cruise Line has hosted corporate meetings ranging from six people to more than 50 on the Regal Empress. The 610-foot ship has conference rooms as well as fine dining, live entertainment, disco, children's program, four lounges, Internet Café, and shore excursions in The Bahamas.
The 610-foot ship sails from Port Everglades every other day year 'round. Departure is late afternoon, arriving in Nassau the next morning and docking within walking distance of downtown shops and attractions. The ship leaves late afternoon for the overnight passage to Florida. Email: info@imperialmajesty.com  

NCL President & CEO Colin Veitch Named 2006 Maritime Person Of The Year
In recognition for his efforts to build a vibrant and successful U.S.-flag cruise fleet, Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation was honored this month by the International Propeller Club of the United States as the 2006 Maritime Person of the Year at the organization's 80th Annual International Convention in Norfolk, Virginia.  The award is presented annually to a person who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in furthering and promoting the maritime industry. 
Under Veitch's leadership, the company's NCL America brand has revitalized the U.S.-flagged large passenger cruise ship industry, operating three large U.S.-flagged cruise ships in the world.  NCL and NCL America's operations provide substantial economic benefits to the United States generating hundreds of millions of dollars and creating thousands of American jobs. The individuals employed by NCL America help sustain a pool of qualified seafarers who can be called upon to assist the U.S. military in times of need or national emergency.

Lloyd’s Register Raises Awareness Of Shipyard Safety Through Training
Lloyd’s Register Asia is raising awareness of shipyard safety by delivering a series of training courses for ship owners and shipyards in North Asia. The course was initially developed by the UK’s Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and is being delivered by Mark Pavey, Group Safety Officer, Lloyd’s Register; Paul Hayes, Asia Safety Officer, Lloyd’s Register Asia; and Duncan Duffy, Surveyor in Charge in Lloyd’s Register Asia’s site office in Samsung Heavy Industries.
Attendees are required to complete a tough examination at the end of the course which aims to test their understanding of the theories and concepts taught. Once they return to work, they also have to complete a risk assessment of their workplace and submit it for assessment. Providing they pass both elements of the assessment, they are awarded a certificate which is jointly issued by Lloyd’s Register and IOSH.
The course aims to raise awareness of health, safety and environment (HS&E) best practice and is based around the principle elements of an effective loss management process. Each element of the loss control model is covered in detail, along with best practice guidance on some of the most common HS&E hazards organizations are likely to face. A module covering shipbuilding-industry-specific factors is also provided.  “Within Lloyd’s Register, we are constantly striving to improve our own management of health and safety risk and we encourage our managers and supervisors to adopt best practice and raise their level of competence,” says Pavey. “The success of this course and the interest we have received from both ship owners and shipyards shows a growing recognition of the basic fact that although shipyards can be dangerous places to work in, with proper training, appropriate procedures and the adoption of sensible loss management principles, risk can be reduced. By working together and sharing best practice, we can help the industry as a whole to improve their own management of health and safety risk.”
Further dates for the shipyard safety course will be issued in the near future.
Lloyd’s Register is an independent risk management organization. The Lloyd’s Register Group works to help improve its clients’ quality, safety, environmental and business performance throughout the world, because life matters. Its expertise and activities cover shipping, railways, other land-based industries and oil and gas. Website: www.lr.org   

 

Celebrity Cruises Introduces New Vow Renewal Program
Celebrities are among the increasing number of couples choosing to renew their wedding vows in recent years. Celebrity Cruises is keeping pace with the trend by introducing a new vow renewals program, which the line launched in a particularly meaningful way.
"Vow renewals are the perfect romantic gift for spouses to give each other, or the ultimate celebration for family and friends traveling with them to commemorate their anniversary," said Celebrity's Vice President of Fleet Operations Lisa Lutoff-Perlo.
Celebrity, in partnership with The Wedding Experience, now has two vow renewal packages available to guests: "True Love Knot Renewal" and the "Aisle to Isle Renewal" ceremony. For more details, click Cruise Itinerary News/Offers.

Holland America Line Completes Signature of Excellence(R) Enhancements
When Holland America Line recently added a new Culinary Arts Center to the final ship in the fleet, all structural changes originally envisioned for the company's $225 million Signature of Excellence initiative were complete. The comprehensive Signature of Excellence upgrades announced nearly three years ago in November 2003 triggered an industry trend of fleet rejuvenations and enhancements to meet the demands of an expanding set of discriminating cruise vacationers.
Signature of Excellence features and amenities are evident in every aspect of the Holland America Line cruise experience, offering guests more luxurious accommodations, more enticing destinations, enhanced dining experiences, more creative activities and even higher levels of service. "We invested to realize a vision, and that vision was to make our brand experience even more relevant to today's and tomorrow's premium traveler," said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. "I believe we've not only delivered on our promise, but exceeded expectations."
All told during the two-year implementation, 12 Holland America ships spent nearly 200 days in drydock receiving enhancements such as the Mariner's Dream stateroom experience with premium comfort appointments, the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, Explorations Cafe -- powered by The New York Times, exclusive Pinnacle Grill restaurant, refurbished Crow's Nest observation lounge, expanded youth facilities and enhanced Greenhouse Spa and Salon.

Cruises On The Upswing In Europe
In data presented at the SeaTrade Med Convention in Naples this month, Gianni Onorato, President of Costa Crociere said “the number of passengers reaching 2,672,000 people in 2003 climbed to 3,213,000 in 2005 which is a 13 percent increase confirms this trend.”
According to the Cruise Industry the number of passengers will reach 4.5 million until 2010—an increase of 17%. In Western countries travel packages turnout in 2005 was 48.15 billions euro (4.1% increase compared to 2004) of which the 8.4% came from cruises. United Kingdom (18% of the total turnout of the tourism market), Italy (12.1%) and Spain (10.4%) were the countries that marked the biggest revenues.
The economic benefits from the cruise industry between 2004 and 2005 showed an increase of 13.1%, while the cruise market share in the total tourism market was approximately 4.1%.

MSC Cruises Opens The Doors To International Tourism For Naples
MSC Cruises welcomed colleagues from throughout the global cruise industry to its home town last week, as the line hosted the opening celebration for the international Seatrade Med conference in Naples, Italy. The Italian family-owned line is based in the southern Italy port, has deep roots in the region and will welcome the new flagship of its rapidly growing fleet, MSC Musica, for her maiden call in Naples on November 9.
This winter MSC Musica, the first of the five new, bigger ships that will be added to the MSC Cruises fleet by 2009, will call at Naples six times, with 32 additional calls slated for the spring and summer 2007 season. In fact, the movements of all the ships in the MSC Cruises fleet will be tied into Naples: for the 2006/2007 season 79 calls will bring more than 250,000 passengers to Naples. "MSC Cruises has made Naples and its culture a vessel to be proudly exhibited in 28 nations where we have offices," explained Domenico Pellegrino, Managing Director of MSC Cruises, at the recent Seatrade/Med conference held in the city. “And it is with great enthusiasm that the company chooses to contribute to the many initiatives of this region, reaffirming and strengthening its ties with the city.”

October 12, 2006

Sir Samuel Cunard Monument Is Unveiled in Halifax
On October 7, 2006, The Honorable Mayann E. Francis O.N.S, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, dedicated a monument to the legacy of Sir Samuel Cunard, a Halifax, Nova Scotia native, who revolutionized commerce and communications between continents by successfully introducing steamships to the North Atlantic nearly two centuries ago.


Joining the celebration were
Sir Samuel Cunard's great,
great, great, great grandsons
(standing front) Benjamin and Samuel Paton

The Sir Samuel Cunard Memorial Project is a unique initiative of The Halifax Foundation, commemorating this remarkable man and his Nova Scotia roots.  "Sir Samuel Cunard was a world force in the development of ocean transport," said The Honourable Alan R. Abraham, Vice Chairman, The Halifax Foundation and Chairman of the project committee.  "It is only right that a monument be dedicated to him in the place where he was born and his business ventures began."
The project has received moral and financial support from several sponsors, including Cunard Line, which made a substantial contribution at the start of the fundraising efforts, CN, The Halifax Foundation, The Halifax Port Authority, Secunda Marine Limited, The Bank of Nova Scotia, and The Waterfront Development Corporation and the committee members.
For more than half a century, the S. Cunard & Company wharves on the Halifax waterfront were the center of a vast shipping empire.  Cunard became the foremost entrepreneur in Halifax and one of the largest owners of merchant vessels.  Samuel Cunard was a visionary who foresaw steam power replacing sail on the North Atlantic.  He became the pioneer of ocean steam navigation when the paddle steamer Britannia, first flagship of the British & North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, later known as Cunard Line, arrived in Halifax July 17, 1840, on its maiden voyage from Liverpool, England."The monument is a gift to the community from The Halifax Foundation and the sponsors who helped make it happen," said Abraham.  "Cunard is arguably the most formative businessman from Atlantic Canada and we are proud to recognize him for his accomplishments."

US Congress Passes Legislation Allowing Passport Delay For Land/Sea Travel
On October 6, the US Congress passed legislation that would allow American citizens returning to the United States from Canada or Mexico by land or sea not to have to carry US passports at least until June 2009. The delay pushes back the U.S. passport requirement for land travelers from January 1, 2008, until June 1, 2009, and for cruise ship passengers from January 8, 2007, to June 1, 2009.
However, if returning by air, a passport will be required to enter the US by January 8, 2007 for U. citizens returning by air from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.
The delay is designed to give the Bush administration more time to implement a cheaper and more convenient credit-card size alternative for frequent cross-border travelers. Passports for adults cost $97 and are good for 10 years. Passports for children younger than age 16 cost $82 and are good for five years.
The bill is awaiting President George W. Bush’s signature.

ICCL Applauds US Congress Passport Delay for Western Hemisphere Travel
The International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) is pleased that a provision extending the statutory deadline for the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) was included in the FY2007 Homeland Security Appropriations bill (H.R. 5441), approved by Congress this month. The provision, known as the Stevens-Leahy Amendment, will extend the implementation date requiring a passport (or other documents) under the WHTI until the Departments of State (State) and Homeland Security (DHS) can develop a plan that meets certain standards for the new identification cards to make them easy to use, affordable and ensure privacy, or by June 1, 2009, whichever is earlier. The economical alternative to the passport, called a PASScard, will be available for sea and land borders. The original deadline, imposed by Congress in the 2004 Intelligence Reform Bill, was January 1, 2008.
ICCL believes that standardized documents can simplify the process of border crossing and add to security efforts, but only when implemented in a way that does not discourage commerce or tourism. Therefore, we were extremely concerned when State and DHS proposed to accelerate the implementation deadline for cruise passengers to January 8, 2007, and to deny cruise passengers eligibility for a low-cost alternative to a passport. “The cruise industry applauds Congress’ efforts to increase security at our borders but to do so reasonably,” said J. Michael Crye, president of the ICCL. “We will continue to work with the government to raise awareness of the requirements and encourage the traveling public to secure proper identification.”
ICCL strongly supports efforts to increase border security. We do not oppose WHTI nor seek to undermine its effectiveness, but believe that reasonable implementation of the law and enhancing security are not mutually exclusive goals. The WHTI should be implemented in a timeframe that provides for enhanced homeland security, while at the same time continuing to facilitate legitimate international trade and travel.

Norwegian Cruise Line Receives AMS Maritime Safety Award
In late September American Maritime Safety, Inc. conferred its annual Maritime Safety Awards at its annual membership meeting and award ceremony held in New York. Those honored were:
Norwegian Cruise Line —Cruise Ship Vessel Safety Award
Pronav Ship Management, Inc.—Responsible Vessel Carrier Award:.
Seariver Maritime, Inc. —Tanker Vessel Safety Award
Horizon Lines, Inc.— Quality Shipmanagement Award
US Shipping Partners, Lp.—American Maritime Safety Award:
Osg Ship Management, Inc.—Maritime Safe Working Practices Award:.
Mcallister Towing & Transportation Co., Inc.— Tug & Barge Safety Award:
New York Water Taxi, LLC— Passenger Vessel Safety Award:
The AMS consortium is a non-profit trade association that was established in 1988 to facilitate the maritime industry’s compliance with US Coast Guard regulations and international protocols. The AMS consortium administers a chemical testing program for 380 US flag deep-sea, tug and barge and Great Lake vessel operators as well as a significant number of international flag vessel companies. The AMS program has been reviewed by the US Coast Guard and “judged to be in compliance with the US Coast Guard’s chemical testing regulations found in Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations.”

Pearl Seas Cruises Lines Joins Cruise Lines International Association
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) welcomed Pearl Seas Cruises as its newest member on October 6, 2006. Pearl Seas Cruises will bring to 20 the number of CLIA-member cruise lines, which collectively represent 97 percent of the cruise capacity marketed in North America. CLIA (www.cruising.org) is also comprised of nearly 17,000 travel agencies, making it the largest travel industry association based on agency membership. “We are very pleased to welcome Pearl Seas Cruises to the CLIA family,” said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the cruise industry’s chief marketing organization. “The line’s new ships will offer vacationers a new choice in the luxury segment of the market. Moreover, the itineraries will showcase some of the Western Hemisphere’s most desirable coastal attractions.”
Pearl Seas Cruises, an offshore affiliate of American Cruise Lines, Inc., is building two new luxury vessels that will sail to the Canadian Maritimes, Newfoundland, New England and the Caribbean.

The line’s first ship, which will carry 165 passengers, is scheduled to be delivered by Irving Shipbuilding of Halifax, Nova Scotia, in time for a July 2008 maiden voyage. A larger 210-passenger sister ship will join the fleet in 2009.
According to Pearl Seas Cruises President and CEO Charles Robertson: “CLIA-member travel agencies are widely regarded as the consumer’s very best resource when planning a cruise vacation. Pearl Seas is pleased to be affiliated with the leisure travel industry’s gold standard association.”

Ocean Village Launches Innovative Agent Training Pack
Ocean Village, the casual cruise company, is launching a practical, hands-on training pack for frontline travel agents to help dispel myths and misconceptions about cruising and help agents identify and convert potential cruisers into Ocean Village bookers. The pink training pack, hits the desks on October 13, tackles key objections head-on, offers practical advice on how to identify various types of potential cruiser, and uses role-play to suggest what to say when dealing with customers face-to-face. The pack also gives agents a clear idea of what makes Ocean Village different and why it’s the best choice for first time cruisers, with particular focus on families. 
Targeting 35-55 year olds, more than 10 years younger than the traditional cruise passenger, Ocean Village is introducing this pack to better express its ‘free-spirited’, ‘unconventional’ and ‘individual’ core brand values. The training pack offers a colorful all you need to know CD-ROM (and hard copy), which includes a virtual tour of the original ship, a sneak preview of the second ship - Ocean Village Two - which launches in April 2007, insight into the Ocean Village brand and onboard style, plus itinerary updates. Gill Haynes, Head of Marketing Communications, Ocean Village, says that “Ocean Village was the first cruise line to actively target virgin cruisers in the Middle Youth, 35-55 age group. Our pioneering marketing activity in this area has raised the bar for the industry and helped agents to convert the unconverted to a holiday by sea. However, we realize that it can sometimes still be tricky convincing first-timers that cruising might suit them so we’ve created our new training pack to help agents demonstrate to their customers that Ocean Village’s informal, upbeat approach represents the best way for them to test the water for the first time.”
In addition, a brand new ‘spot the difference’ leaflet challenges agents to recognize that Ocean Village will appeal to the same people that they are used to booking on  summer sun package holidays – but who are now looking for something more for their money. The piece identifies the limitations of the standard hotel package and also specifically addresses possible concerns about taking a holiday at sea for the first time, pin-pointing why “people who don’t do cruises” should chose Ocean Village.
To address the family market, a new leaflet details the stimulating activities and superb facilities for four different children’s groups on board, covering ages from 6 months to 17, that make Ocean Village the perfect family-friendly option. 
And to add an extra holiday feel, the training pack comes with a free, signature pink bikini.

Celebrity Cruises’ ‘Solstice’ Takes First Step Toward The Sun
Celebrity Cruises has taken its first major step toward physically launching Celebrity Solstice in fall 2008. The line's President Dan Hanrahan today ceremoniously pressed the start button for the plasma cutter at shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, creating the ship's first steel plate.  "This is a very exciting day for the Celebrity brand, as we take the first tangible step toward making Celebrity Solstice a reality," said Hanrahan. "While it's too soon to reveal any details, I'm convinced our travel agent partners and guests are going to find this ship to be the perfect manifestation of what they appreciate most about Celebrity."
The first in a class of three ships, Celebrity Solstice will be a 2,850-guest vessel measuring 1,033 feet in length and 121 feet in width, and will feature larger standard staterooms, a higher percentage of verandas, and an exceptional range of guest-inspired services and amenities.

Cunard Veteran Capt. Paul Wright Named Master of Cunard's Newest Queen
Captain Paul Wright, a 26 year veteran of Cunard Line, has been appointed master of Queen Victoria, the company's newest ocean liner currently under construction in Venice that will enter service in December 2007.
Captain Wright first went to sea in 1965 as a cadet with Shell Tankers, and quickly progressed to passenger ships in 1969 when he joined Canadian Pacific.  His first appointment with Cunard was to Cunard Countess in 1980 and since then he has served on Cunard Princess, Sagafjord and Cunard Dynasty.  In 1999, Captain Wright was promoted to Captain of Cunard's flagship Queen Elizabeth 2 where he served until construction began on Queen Mary 2, the largest ocean liner ever built.  He oversaw construction of QM2 in St. Nazaire prior to commission, and in 2004 was appointed Master of Queen Mary 2, rotating with the recently retired Commodore Ronald Warwick.
In commenting on his appointment, Captain Wright says:  "I fully expect that sailing Queen Victoria into Southampton for the first time will give me a third most memorable event  and I have no doubt it will be equally memorable for those who turn out to greet us; nothing stirs the imagination quite as much as a new Cunarder arriving in port for the first time.  She will be a magnificent vessel built in true Cunard style."

Holland America Passengers Will Be Able to Use Cell Phones to Call Home
In today's constantly connected world, guests aboard Holland America Line ships will soon be able to use their own personal cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) to stay tied to family, friends and business associates while cruising on one of the line's premium cruise ships. The service is currently available on the ms Volendam and will be operational on all ships by March 2007. Guests will simply make and receive calls and use text messaging as they would on land with their personal cell phone. Phones and PDAs must be activated for international dialing with the guest's home provider, but otherwise no special codes or software is needed. International roaming fees apply to all shipboard cell phone calls or messages and appear on the guest's personal cell phone bill.
"Staying connected is a way of life for most of us, our guests included," said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. "Now, whether cruising with Holland America Line in Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska or sailing around the world, our guests can connect at sea anywhere at anytime."
Holland America Line's new cell phone service utilizes SeaMobile's proprietary technology, a sophisticated IP/software based solution that works with any type of wireless phone. Worldwide roaming agreements established by SeaMobile provide transparent connectivity for wireless services with billing provided by the guest's home carrier.

Crystal Cruises Launches Cell Phone Service
Following the debut of the luxury line’s wireless Internet service in September, Crystal Cruises plans to launch cell phone service later this month aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.  “Quiet zone” technology enhances the new cell service, allowing select areas of the ship to be cell phone-free.  The service is available through SeaMobile™ and guests will be billed through their own cell phone provider.  Other available wireless services include text messaging and use of PDAs such as a Blackberry®. “Today’s luxury travelers want to stay in touch and they want it convenient, but they don’t want to be disturbed,” says Thomas Mazloum, Crystal’s senior vice president, hotel operations.  “Unlike land-based resorts, the ‘quiet zone’ technology protects areas sensitive to cell phone use such as the dining room and theatres.”
In conjunction with the service upgrades, Crystal has simplified its Internet pricing plan with convenient packages that can be used throughout the entire cruise.  Wi-Fi laptop access is available at the same rates as through the desktops in Crystal’s Computer University@Sea.  Laptops are also available for rent on board.

‘Norwegian Sun’ First Cruise Ship To Homeport In New Orleans Since Katrina
Norwegian Sun is the first cruise ship to homeport in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina did her damage. The ship will offer seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries beginning October 15 through April 8, 2007 as well as one five-day cruise in January, 2007.
The Norwegian Sun is the first of the four ships returning to New Orleans during the winter season. Carnival’s Fantasy and Carnival Triumph and Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas will return by December. A fourth ship—Carnival Liberty—will be homeported there in early 2007.
In conjunction with the welcomed return of cruise ships to the city,  the new $37 million Erato Street Cruise Terminal also opens in October.

Royal Caribbean Cancels 2007 Cruises From Boston
Royal Caribbean International has canceled its 2007 cruises out of Boston. The change is temporary. Jewel of the Seas, which operates cruises from Boston, will be undergoing routine drydock maintenance during the summer season next year. However, at this time, the Jewel is expected to return for cruises 2008, according to a spokesperson for Royal Caribbean.
The 2,112-person-capacity Jewel of the Seas has been cruising from Boston since her 2004 launch, but other Royal Caribbean ships have been leaving or stopping here since 1997. According to a spokesperson for Massport which runs the Boston cruise terminal, revenue loss will be compensated by an increasing number of cruise vessels calling at the port in 2007.

NCL.Com Reflects New Brand Identity And Offers More User-Friendly Features
In conjunction with the launch of NCL Corporation’s (NCL) new brand identity, which brings the company’s unique Freestyle Cruising to life, the company unveiled phase one of its new Web site this month, offering a host of interactive and user-friendly consumer and travel agent components. The site, www.ncl.com , reflects the same vivid colors, graphic elements and playful tone of the company’s new brand identity. “Starting with this first phase, the new ncl.com provides consumers and travel agents interactive solutions to make shopping for and selecting a cruise an effortless and enjoyable experience,” said Andy Stuart, executive vice president of marketing, sales and passenger services for NCL.  “The updated site reflects our new brand identity, clearly communicates the benefits of Freestyle Cruising and introduces visitors to our rapidly growing fleet of big, modern ships.”
The site features an interactive Freestyle Cruising section depicting the difference and benefits of Freestyle Cruising.  Consumers will also find enhanced, detailed information on each ship, along with in-depth descriptions of NCL’s shore excursions, including activity levels, and a list of the most popular excursions by port.  To help guests plan a completely customized cruise vacation, ncl.com features a new “booked guest experience” area, designed specifically for guests who are booked and ready to cruise.  This section provides guest registration forms, answers to frequently asked questions, a “Welcome Aboard” booklet, and information for guests with special needs, and more.  
Travel agents will find a collection of features on ncl.com designed to help them easily and efficiently plan the best itinerary for their clients.  New additions to the site include a “New Agency” section, allowing agents to register immediately for access to NCL booking, information on “Hot Deals” and reduced rate sailings.  Agents can also order marketing materials online 24 hours a day, and access enhanced ship photography to better communicate the benefits of NCL and Freestyle Cruising to their clients.  An interactive sales tool allows travel agents to design and personalize their own NCL emails and flyers.
Additional travel agent features to be introduced later in 2006 and early 2007 include an all new booking engine with side-by-side package comparison tool listing multiple pricing options including cruise only packages, air/sea packages, and pre- and post-cruise hotel packages. 

NCL Expands Its Culinary Team With Three New Corporate Chefs
NCL Corporation (NCL) has announced the appointment of three new corporate chefs: Warren Pearson, James Wierzelewski and Christophe Le Cras to the company’s food and beverage department. Reporting to Karl Muhlberger, director of culinary operations, the trio brings a combined 67 years of culinary experience to NCL. Pearson, Wierzelewski and Le Cras will work as a team to develop dynamic new menu concepts for the NCL fleet and implement them onboard by the end of November. The chefs will spend five to six hours each day in NCL’s test kitchen creating new recipes and making modifications to existing menu items as well as visiting various ships in the fleet talking with passengers to gather feedback. After the introduction of the new menus, the team will be responsible for maintaining the innovative Freestyle Dining product and ensuring that NCL keeps at the forefront of culinary trends looking beyond conventional industry practices. “Warren, James and Christophe bring a world of experience to NCL, each with his own distinguished talents to create innovative cuisine for our guests,” said Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL. “The new menus we recently introduced on our NCL America ships in Hawaii have been well received by our guests and we look forward to rolling out new menus across the NCL fleet.” 
Pearson, Wierzelewski and Le Cras join NCL with varied and impressive culinary careers in top hotels and restaurants around the world:
These new additions to the food and beverage department follow the appointment of Alain Gruber, the new corporate chef for NCL America, who has led the recent introduction of new menus onboard Pride of Hawaii, Pride of America and Pride of Aloha.

Celebrity Cruises To Undertake Hawaii Cultural Training
After canceling an advertisement that offended many Hawaiians and acknowledging its poor judgment in running it, Celebrity Cruises accepted an offer from the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) to provide cultural training for its marketing staff. In a letter sent to the company, HVCB President and CEO John Monahan said, "It's likely that this advertisement may have been created and approved by Celebrity Cruises due to a lack of understanding of Hawaii's society, history and traditions. If so, HVCB will be pleased to make arrangements to help educate your marketing staff about our islands."
HVCB has put Celebrity in contact with the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association to provide cultural values and awareness training. Dan Hanrahan, Celebrity Cruises president, reiterated the company's regret over the insensitivity of the company's ads, which depicted the King Kamehameha statue holding a champagne glass. "We are deeply sorry that our ads offended so many people," Hanrahan said. "It was certainly never our intention to be disrespectful to the people of Hawaii, and we sincerely regret any concerns that were raised by our indiscretion."
The original ads, which Celebrity immediately pulled after learning of their unintended effect, had appeared recently in several travel-agent publications.
Celebrity announced it published ads in two of Hawaii's major newspapers to make its apology to the Hawaiian people more public.

Big Ships, Big Savings Offered At Liberty Travel
Liberty Travel is currently holding a giant cruise sale in October. A great way to escape for a quick Caribbean vacation, or an exiting voyage in the Greek Islands, a cruise Tour to Alaska, a river cruise in Europe or a transatlantic crossing, ten Cruise Lines offer thousands of cruise options on all Seven Continents.
Booking of cruises must be made by October 29.
Check out this sample of jam-packed packages:
-- Carnival Cruise Lines – four-night packages to the Western Caribbean start
    at $259 from Miami.  Liberty Travel sweetens the deal with free
    stateroom upgrades plus shipboard credit!
-- Holland America Line – seven-night packages to the Western Caribbean start
    at $739 from Tampa.  Liberty Travel adds exclusive reduced rates,
    shipboard credit plus stateroom upgrades!
-- Celebrity Cruises – seven- night packages to Bermuda start at $969 from Cape
    Liberty.  Liberty Travel pumps it up with special reduced rates plus a
    $100 spa credit!
-- Costa Cruises  - seven-night packages to the Eastern Caribbean start at $449
    from Miami.  Special Liberty Reduced rates plus $50 per person shipboard
    credit!
-- Disney Cruise Line – three- night packages to the Bahamas start at $469 from
    Port Canaveral.  Enjoy bigger savings with a shipboard credit!
-- Norwegian Cruise Line – five-night packages to the Western Caribbean start
    at $499 from Miami.  Amplify your savings with $25 to $150 per cabin
    shipboard credit!
-- Cunard Line –six-night Transatlantic Crossing packages from New York
    start at $1199 and are magnified with $50 To $300 shipboard credit.
-- Royal Caribbean International – seven-night packages to the Western
    Caribbean start at $499 from New Orleans.  Combined with reduced rates,
    this package is huge in savings!
-- Princess Cruises – seven-night packages to the Eastern Caribbean start at
    $889 from Ft. Lauderdale.  Not only do special Liberty Rates apply, but
    also receive a $120 coupon booklet!
Website: www.LibertyTravel.com
Cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise only, in US Dollars. Government fees/taxes are additional. Savings certificate offers are not transferable. Savings are in US dollars and are not redeemable for cash. Offer not combinable with any coupon, other promotion, offer or group rate unless expressly stated therein. Single, triple, and quad rates, if available, on request. Prices are valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, may change without notice, and are not retroactive. Blackouts, peak period surcharges, cancellation charges, and other restrictions may apply. Advertised prices already reflect savings when applicable. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed here. Prices valid from U.S. departure cities only.

2005 World Cruise Numbers Published In New Seatrade Report
In a supplement to its report “The Future of Cruising—Boom or Bust? A Worldwide Analysis to 2015,” Seatrade reports that a total of 14.5 million people embarked on an ocean cruise in 2005. That number represents an 8.7 percent increase over 2004. Notable increases were in North America (8.9 percent) and in Europe (13.4 percent)—statistics that offset stagnation in other areas such as Asia to insure continuation in 2005 of the steady 8-10 percent growth experienced by the global industry in recent years. “It is a reflection of the cruise industry’s new maturity,” writes Tony Peisley, who compiled the statistics for the newly published Special Cruise Supplement, “that it now sees the main threats to its continued growth and profitability coming solely from those elements wholly or largely outside its control: for example, climate, rising fuel, terrorism and environmentally-driven taxation such as will apply to Alaska cruises from 2007.”
Other subjects covered in the special cruise addendum, include the impact of increasing fuel cost, a financial update on the top three cruise groups, a cruise order book analysis and data, plus official statistics and analysis of the major source markets in 2005 including North America, UK, Continental Europe and Australia.
The supplement is available only to those who have already purchased the Research Report or those purchasing it in future. Copies can be ordered online at www.seatrade-global.com  or in person at the Seatrade stand during Seatrade Med Conference held in Naples on October 18-20.

Cunard Photo Opportunities For Ship Buffs In 2007/2008
With the debut of Cunard’s new Queen Victoria in late 2007, ship photographers can capture on film meetings of Cunard liners. So far the diary dates are:
December 12, 2007—Queen Elizabeth 2 & Queen Victoria rendezvous for the first time in Rotterdam
January 6 to 13, 2008—Queen Victoria crosses the North Atlantic in tandem with Queen Elizabeth 2
January 13, 2008—Queen Victoria will be in port at the same time as Queen Elizabeth 2 & Queen Mary 2 in New York