Two Favorable Decisions for Royal
Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
Celebrity Cruises, a subsidiary of Royal
Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced June 29 that a federal
court jury in New York has awarded Celebrity $193 million
in a lawsuit against Essef Corp. Celebrity has remaining
claims for interest and certain legal fees.
Celebrity filed suit against Essef Corp.
for damages stemming from a 1994 outbreak of Legionnaires’
disease on Celebrity’s vessel Horizon. Celebrity
claimed for out-of-pocket losses, lost profits, and loss
of business enterprise value related to this incident. Dan
Hanrahan, President of Celebrity Cruises, stated: “This
was a long awaited result for Celebrity Cruises. We feel
vindicated by this verdict. In the cruise industry, the
safety of our guests and employees is paramount.”
The verdict is subject to appeal and,
due to the ongoing nature of the proceedings, the ultimate
financial impact to Celebrity Cruises is undetermined at
this time. Any gain from this verdict will only be recognized
when the outcome is known with certainty.
Royal Caribbean And Jennifer Hagel
Smith Reach Settlement
Royal Caribbean International and Jennifer
Hagel Smith have reached an agreement settling any potential
claims regarding the death of her husband George Smith IV.
The company entered into this agreement to provide closure
and move forward. The terms of the settlement are subject
to approval by a Connecticut probate court. Royal Caribbean
will continue in its good faith efforts to ensure Ms. Hagel
Smith has access to all information regarding her husband’s
disappearance. “We have done our best to assist Jennifer
through the tragic events involving the disappearance of
her husband,” said Adam Goldstein, president of Royal Caribbean
International. “She has handled herself well under the
most trying of circumstances and we applaud her constructive
approach to resolving this matter – so much so that our
company will also match a contribution by Ms. Hagel Smith
to a charity of her choosing. We believe this agreement
will help Jennifer to move forward in her life, while honoring
the memory of her beloved husband.”
This has been the most difficult and
challenging year of my life," said Ms. Hagel Smith.
"I will always love George and cherish our time together
. . . My discussions with Royal Caribbean have been very
open, as well as extremely productive and informative.
This journey has always been a matter of principle for me,
and I know that George would be proud of what has been accomplished
thus far, in good faith, as we continue to seek answers.
I appreciate Royal Caribbean's cooperation, sincerity and
efforts moving forward, which I believe will play a major
role in helping all of us find closure. The memory of George
will always live on in my heart, that of our families and
everyone who knew him.”
June 28 , 2006
More news at:
Cruise
Itineraries/Offers
Exploration/Eco
Cruises
CLIA
River/Barge
News
River/Barge
Offers
Star Cruises Begins Cruises From Valletta,
Malta On ‘Superstar Libra’
Star Cruises began cruises in early June
out of Malta on SuperStar Libra. This is the first
time that that a ship from Star’s Asian fleet has been deployed
to Europe offering scheduled cruise itineraries during the
summer in the Eastern Mediterranean. Star Cruises is also
the first major cruise line to base a ship in Malta, the
heart of the Mediterranean.
Superstar Libra berthed in Valletta, Malta
Star Cruises has been registering growth
and increasing popularity since its pioneering efforts to
introduce cruising in Asia with the setting up of cruise
hubs in Singapore and Hong Kong and expanding to include
Mumbai, India where SuperStar Libra completed her maiden
season in May 2006.
The arrival of SuperStar Libra heralds
the beginning of a new era in cruising for Asia's pioneering
cruise line as it embarks on an expansion of the company's
brand in new international markets. “Located in the heart
of the Mediterranean, Malta presents an ideal and strategic
hub for cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean. It allows
the company to plan interesting and diverse 7-night itineraries
along the west and east coasts of Italy, the Aegean sea
and islands of Greece, Croatia and further east and southwards
to exotic Istanbul and Alexandria,’’ said Chong Chee Tut,
Star Cruises’ Chief Operating Officer at the welcoming ceremony.
The 42,000-gross-ton vessel with a passenger
capacity of 1,900 will be operating cruises from the recently
opened Passenger Cruise Terminal at the Grand Harbour of
Valletta.
The Eastern Mediterranean cruise deployment
will see SuperStar Libra offering cruise itineraries of
between seven and 13 nights to destinations in Italy, Greece,
Croatia, Turkey and Egypt.
Carnival To Install New Cellular Service
Fleetwide
Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest
cruise operator, is expanding wireless Internet access to
all public rooms and suites aboard its 21 Fun Ships by the
end of 2006. With the installation of strategically located
Wi-Fi hot spots, guests sailing on Carnival can now access
websites and send e-mails via any wireless-equipped laptop
computer from virtually anywhere aboard ship, including
all lounges, bars, pool areas, open decks, dining venues
and suite accommodations. The project is roughly 75 percent
complete with the balance of the fleet expected to be completed
by year’s end.
Wi-Fi technology expands Carnival’s existing
shipboard wireless Internet capabilities as guests can use
wireless-equipped laptop computers in select areas in and
around the Internet cafes fleetwide. Carnival Valor
and Carnival Liberty also feature 100 percent bow-to-stern
wireless access. “Guests view our ships as ‘floating hotels,’
expecting the same modern technology and conveniences found
on land. The Internet has become an indispensable tool
for staying abreast of the latest news and keeping in touch
with the office and loved ones and we are very pleased to
offer convenient and cost-effective wireless technology
to our guests on a fleetwide basis,” said Bob Dickinson,
Carnival president and CEO.
The wireless technology can be added,
if needed, into any laptop simply by installing a non-intrusive
“radio card” in the computer’s PC card slot. Guests are
welcome to bring their own computer or rent a laptop through
the ships’ Internet cafes for a nominal fee. Guests can
either use their own Web-based e-mail address or obtain
a temporary account while aboard ship.
In addition to the wireless Internet
technology, all Carnival ships offer Internet cafes featuring
flat-panel workstations available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week.
Both the wireless Internet and Internet
cafés cost 75 cents per minute to surf the Web and review
e-mails. There is also a one-time activation fee of $3.95.
Minutes can also be purchased in bulk at a discount.
This marks the latest high-tech initiative
aboard the “Fun Ships” designed to enhance guests’ cruise
experience. Carnival and Wireless Maritime Services, a joint
venture of Cingular Wireless and Maritime Telecommunications
Network, also announced in late June that it would offer
fleetwide cell phone service to guests sailing aboard the
“Fun Ships” in any cruising region.
Name Change For Norwegian Coastal
Voyage In Europe
Norwegian Coastal Voyage has announced
that it will change its name to the parent group’s name—Hurtigruten
ASA— effective this month. “We will be operating as Norwegian
Coastal Voyage as well as mention the name of our parent
company “Hurtigruten”, which is the name used for the last
100 plus years,” said NCV president Hans Rood. “It has become
synonymous with our 15 ships offering Norwegian Coastal
Voyages, as well as exploration cruises in Antarctica, the
Arctic, Greenland and the Lofoten.
Along with the name change, a new logo
is being globally introduced to reflect the international
mix of passengers.
The name change applies to the UK market.
The company, for the time being, will continue to operate
as Norwegian Coastal Voyage in the US market.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Expands Its 2007
Bilingual Cruise Schedule For US Market
In 2007, Americans will have new opportunities
to indulge in the unsurpassed and unmatched luxury aboard
MS Europa. The flagship of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Europa has
earned its sterling reputation for service and accommodations
with its long tradition of luxury cruising. “Sophisticated
guests worldwide have long recognized Europa as offering
the ultimate in luxury cruising in the most sophisticated
European tradition,” comments Sebastian Ahrens, Managing
Director, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. “As cruising becomes a more
popular pastime in the U.S., the same discerning Americans
who are accustomed to the levels of excellence that they
experience in the great European resorts are looking for
a similar ultra-high-level cruise experience. Europa, uniquely,
delivers it in the cruise format. As more Americans sail
Europa, so they will repeat the experience; thus, we think
it is now the appropriate time provide a more significant
choice of bilingual cruise opportunities for them.”
Amadeus signs agreement with MSC Cruises
Amadeus, a global leader in technology
and distribution solutions for the travel and tourism industry,
announced an agreement with MSC Cruises, the largest independent
Italian cruise line, to distribute its product via the Amadeus
system. MSC Cruises has offices in the major Italian cities
of Naples, Milan, Venice, Genoa, Rome, Palermo, Bari plus
a further 26 MSC Cruises offices worldwide. We are delighted
to add this prestigious cruise line to the market-leading
range of 16 cruise lines available in Amadeus. We will help
MSC Cruises increase their sales and revenues in Europe
and North America by providing access to live availability
and pricing, and optimizing the way to reach travel agents,”
said Albert Pozo, Managing Director, Travel Services and
Leisure, Amadeus. “Amadeus’ leadership and continued technology
investment will bring significant efficiencies in time and
productivity to MSC Cruises
The cruise line will become available
to North American, UK and Spanish travel agents in July
2006. Travel agents in France and Scandinavia will be able
to book MSC Cruises through Amadeus from the third quarter
2006.
MSC Cruises’ decision to distribute though
Amadeus’ world-leading distribution system is part of an
aggressive growth strategy which has seen its fleet expand
from three ships in 2002 to eight ships today after the
arrival of the newest flagship MSC Musica. “.”
Condo Cruise Lines' First Ship Is
Nearly Sold Out in Less Than Six Months
The new cruise line that pioneered affordable
luxury cruise ship condominiums is already working on its
next two medium-sized ships. Erin LeCel Jones, Executive
Vice President of the company, says, "We sold almost
80 percent of the available condos on our first ship in
about twenty weeks - more than enough to go ahead and start
the re-design and renovation process. The ship will be drydocked
in Singapore and the renovations should be complete by early
December."
The as-yet-unnamed ship will then be
delivered in mid-January to its homeport in San Francisco
where it will begin the first of its two-year-long worldwide
voyages.
The young cruise line gained notoriety
last January when it announced it was taking semi-retired
cruise ships and converting about two-thirds of the staterooms
into multi-room luxury condo suites. Condo Cruise Lines
has four more ships targeted for conversion to condos, and
the next two are already being re-configured by its world-class
maritime partners. To do the renovations the company has
enlisted the talents of one of the most renowned maritime
interior designers in the world. Tillberg Designs, the marine
interior designers that created the luxurious interiors
of the Queen Mary II and many more of the newest mega-ships,
will develop the condo suites.
The first ship's condo prices started
out at $349,000 and went as high as $529,000 last January,
but after two price increases, the condos that are left
range from $562,000 to $1,280,000, according to Thomas Blackburn,
the company's Senior Vice President and director of finance.
"We didn't sell a single $349,000 suite as most people
were looking for the higher rental income from the larger
suites," he said. "So we eliminated the small,
single suites and converted them to larger three-room penthouses
and sold out."
Many real estate investors are opting
for this variation to the pre- construction condo purchase
because the rental income is about five times higher than
a beachfront condo on the Gulf of Mexico. More information
on the company can be seen at its website: http://www.condocruiselines.com
Carnival Corporation & plc Reports
Second Quarter Earnings
Carnival Corporation & plc reported
net income of $380 million, or $0.46 diluted EPS, on revenues
of $2.66 billion for its second quarter ended May 31, 2006.
Net income for the second quarter of 2005 was $388 million,
or $0.47 diluted EPS, on revenues of $2.52 billion. Net
income for the six months ended May 31, 2006, was $631 million,
or $0.77 diluted EPS, on revenues of $5.13 billion, compared
to net income of $736 million, or $0.89 diluted EPS, on
revenues of $4.91 billion for the same period in 2005.
The company has completed $967 million
of its previously authorized $1 billion stock repurchase
program and the board of directors has now authorized a
second $1 billion stock repurchase program. The repurchase
will take place from time to time in open market or privately
negotiated transactions in accordance with all applicable
laws, rules and regulations. This authorization covers both
Carnival Corporation stock traded on the New York Stock
Exchange and Carnival plc ordinary shares traded on the
London Stock Exchange.
Second quarter 2006 revenues increased
5.8 percent, driven by both a 4.5 percent increase in capacity
and an increase in revenue yields (revenue per available
lower berth day). Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman
and CEO Micky Arison said, "Our second quarter earnings
were largely in line with our expectations. Both our North
American and European cruise brands' yields were strong
despite some price pressure on Caribbean sailings. We also
did a very good job managing controllable costs, although
higher fuel prices reduced second quarter earnings by $74
million, or 9 cents per share, compared to 2005."
As far as the remainder of 2006, Arison
said that “based on what we see at this point, we are expecting
a solid increase in revenue yields from our European cruise
brands in the second half of 2006. Additionally, pricing
for our North American brands for European and Alaskan itineraries
is ahead of the prior year. However, there remains considerable
softness for Caribbean sailings in the second half of 2006.
We have responded with more aggressive pricing strategies
which have resulted in a solid increase in bookings over
the last few weeks," Arison said.
Despite sluggish Caribbean bookings,
the company currently expects that net revenue yields will
be up 1 to 2 percent (flat in constant dollars) in the second
half of 2006 compared to last year. The company continues
to expect full year 2006 net revenue yields to increase
1 to 2 percent on both a current and constant dollar basis.
The company has one ship scheduled to
enter service in the third quarter 2006, the Costa Concordia,
which is slated to launch seven-day Mediterranean cruises
from Civitavecchia (Rome) on July 23, 2006. Also in the
third quarter, the company will launch its first Asian-based
cruise initiative, Costa Asia, with the newly refurbished
Costa Allegra operating five-day voyages from Shanghai,
the People's Republic of China, beginning July 3, 2006.
‘Godspeed’ Sails NYC To Celebrate
America's 400th Anniversary In 2007
The Godspeed is docked at New
York City's South Street Seaport for the fourth stop in
the 17th-century replica ship's 80-day tour of six East
Coast cities. America's 400th Anniversary's Godspeed Sail
brings the story of the journey that changed the world and
the nation's birthplace, Jamestown, Virginia to hundreds
of thousands of visitors who will have a glimpse into early
17th-Century America and the legacies on which our nation
was founded.
The 88-foot, three-mast square rigger
is a replica of the original Godspeed—one of three ships
setting out for the New World in 1607—which carried 39 settlers
and 13 crew members during a more-than-four-month transatlantic
crossing from England to Jamestown. The new Godspeed is
made of tropical hardwoods and was designed using three
17th-century nautical accounts. The vessel’s
crew are dressed in the garb worn by the original settlers—hand-sewn
linen breeches and shirts.
Docked in New York City June 27-July
6, Godspeed is accompanied by its "Landing Party Festival,"
a unique combination of education, entertainment and interactive
experiences that is free to the public. Live music, family
entertainment, and historical and cultural displays bring
to life the American legacies of representative government,
free enterprise and cultural diversity that first took root
at Jamestown.
Visitors can board the Godspeed for dockside
tours with historical guides in period costume, then take
a "virtual" voyage in an on-shore motion simulator.
Interactive exhibits will give visitors the sense of what
life was like in early Jamestown and America, while a gallery-in-the-round
called "American People, American Progress" takes
them on a journey through 400 years of contributions made
by the Native American, European and African-American cultures
that converged at Jamestown in the early 1600s.
The Godspeed Sail will progress to the
following US ports this summer: the John Joseph Moakley
U.S. Courthouse and Fan Pier in Boston from July 14 - July
19, and the Newport Yachting Center in Newport, Rhode Island
from July 25 - July 30 before sailing back to Jamestown.
The 2006 Godspeed Sail is one of 10 signature
events and hundreds of other community projects commemorating
America's 400th Anniversary. America's 400th Anniversary
will feature 18 months of special events, symposia and educational
opportunities. The centerpiece event will be America's 400th
Anniversary weekend, hosted in America's Historic Triangle
of Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown, Virginia on May
11-13, 2007. Visit http://www.americas400thanniversary.com
to learn more about the Godspeed Sail and other America's
400th Anniversary events and schedules.
Holland America and Food & Wine
Continue Culinary Partnership
Holland America Line continues its successful
on-board culinary program through 2006 and 2007 in conjunction
with Food & Wine magazine. The multi-year partnership
provides guests on select Holland America Line cruises an
opportunity to experience demonstrations and seminars conducted
by top chefs, wine experts and leading cookbook authors
affiliated with Food & Wine. The partnership developed
in response to consumers' increasing interest in learning
about fine wines and international cuisine.
The initiative is part of the line's
Culinary Arts Center program, which is offered on every
sailing. As a part of the line's $225 million Signature
of Excellence initiative, Holland America Line has spent
more than $13 million to create and install the Culinary
Arts Center facilities. The Culinary Arts Centers are now
in place on all but one of the fleet of 13 premium cruising
vessels including the new 1,918-passenger ms Noordam; the
remaining ship ms Oosterdam will be completed in October
of 2006.
Resembling the elaborate show kitchens
used by celebrity chefs on television cooking programs,
each Culinary Arts Center features an innovative theater-style
venue. The state-of-the-art "show kitchen at sea"
has two large plasma video screens to display overhead and
close-up video views of the food preparation, and a large
cooking display counter where guests can learn new cooking
techniques and dishes. Culinary demonstrations are filmed
and aired on the in-stateroom televisions. This collaboration
has been a total success and we could not be more pleased.
The dynamic partnership with Food & Wine magazine demonstrates
how travelers love the opportunity to hone and enrich their
epicurean knowledge and skills," said Richard D. Meadows,
CTC, Holland America Line's senior vice president, marketing
and sales. "Our guests learn from and mingle with acclaimed
culinary experts, these are rare experiences found exclusively
on Holland America Line."
Norwegian Spirit To Homeport In New
Orleans In 2007
NCL Corporation has announced that Norwegian
Spirit will drop anchor in the New Orleans beginning
in November 2007 sailing seven-day exotic Western Caribbean
cruises through April 2008. Norwegian Spirit’s itinerary
will feature calls into Belize City, Santo Tomas, Guatemala
and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. “We are the first cruise
line back in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina this fall
with Norwegian Sun and our commitment to this historic and
beautiful city continues in 2007,” said Colin Veitch, president
and CEO of NCL Corporation. “Freestyle Cruising out of the
Big Easy has proven to be very popular and we are pleased
to be returning there next year.”
After the 2007 summer deployment out
of New York, Norwegian Spirit repositions to New Orleans
beginning November 18 replacing Norwegian Sun, which
moves to Hawaii for the winter season.
NCL has three ships based in New York
for the 2006 and 2007 summer season including Norwegian
Spirit; Norwegian Crown with seven-day cruises to
Bermuda; and Norwegian Dawn, featuring seven-day
cruises to Bermuda and Bahamas. In the winter of 2006, Norwegian
Dawn sails alternating ten- and 11-day Eastern and Western
Caribbean cruises out of New York.
In November 2007, Norwegian Gem
will be homeported in New York as NCL places its newest
ship year round in the Big Apple sailing a short series
of seven-day Florida and Bahamas cruises and four ten- and
11-day cruises to the Southern Caribbean in the winter;
and seven-day cruises to Bermuda and the Bahamas in the
summer. In November 2007, Norwegian Dawn will move to Miami,
where she will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises
for the winter.
“The restyling operations we completed
on the Costa Allegra were quite extensive and carried out
in Genoa, where our three new flagships are currently under
construction,” said Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO
of Costa Crociere S.p.A. “Our entrance into the Chinese
market is highly innovative, but also very complex considering
that this cruise is a completely new product for China,”
he continued. “That’s why we initially decided to utilize
the Costa Allegra for the Chinese market, since it combines
the incredible charm of the furnishings and comfort of the
premium cabins with an adequate passenger capacity to achieve
our proposed objectives.”
The Costa Allegra departed on Sunday,
April 30 from the Palacrociere Terminal in Savona for an
exclusive 30-night positioning cruise, during which time
she will stop in Naples, cross the Suez Canal, and make
calls to exotic locales including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand,
Singapore, Vietnam and Hong Kong. She is also offering two
15 and 16-night cruises, which will depart from Hong Kong
and Bombay. The majority of these cruises, with a mostly
European clientele, have already sold out.
As of July 3, 2006 the Costa Allegra
will begin its cruise program from Shanghai, which is marketed
exclusively in China and Asia. The five-night itinerary
will include calls to Nagasaki (Japan) and Cheju (Korea)
with a total of 24 sailings scheduled at this time. Costa
Crociere plans to welcome aboard 55,000 Chinese guests per
year who will be embarking in ports within their own country.
Costa is the world’s first major international cruise company
to receive a license from the government of the People’s
Republic of China to operate in the local market, departing
from ports located in China.
Costa Crociere’s development in the Far
East is being overseen by its new Asia-Pacific division,
with an office based in Hong Kong and another in Shanghai.
The division’s two-fold objective is to introduce the Costa
Allegra to the Chinese market as well as to introduce its
entire fleet—Europe’s largest and most modern—to customers
in more than 10 countries in the Pacific-Asian region.
Costa Makes Opens Two New Offices
In Hong Kong And Shanghai
Cruising Italian style will soon extend
all the way to Asia where Costa Cruise Lines, the number
one cruise company in Europe and South America, is making
its debut in China. Costa’s two new offices in Shanghai
and Hong Kong will serve as its base of operations for the
market in China and the Far East. Costa Cruise Lines is
the first large international cruise company in the world
to be granted a license by the Government of the People’s
Republic to operate locally, with departures from Chinese
ports. One ship, the Costa Allegra, will be entirely
dedicated to Chinese guests, and will offer cruises from
Shanghai.
The new Costa Crociere Asia division
reflects the company’s strategic plans for development.
The Far East and China in particular constitute the world’s
most densely populated area with the highest rate of economic
growth. “We are about to embark on an extremely ambitious
and innovative project in international tourism which is
also a very complex and exciting challenge,” said Costa
Crociere S.p.A. Chairman & CEO Pier Luigi Foschi. “At
the same time, the growth potential involved may well lead
to massive business development with far-reaching implications
for the future of our company.”
Foschi continued, “This project, together
with our previously announced new itineraries in the Far
East and UAE, is part of Costa’s strategy of business development
and expansion of fleet operational areas in what we believe
are emerging and high-growth markets. It will be a great
thrill to see a Costa ship in the ports of the People’s
Republic of China and of many other Asian countries.”
The Asia Division will set about furthering
Costa’s business development in Asia by marketing an exclusive
tailor-made product in China, offered by the Costa Allegra
(1,000 total guests and 28,500 gross tonnage) for cruises
operating initially out of Shanghai; and by offering customers
in more than ten countries in the Asia Pacific region cruises
on the entire Costa Crociere fleet, Europe’s most advanced
fleet of ships.
According to a recent report published
by the London-based independent economic consultancy Ocean
Shipping Consultants, the cruise market in Northeast Asia
(China, South Korea and Taiwan) is set to experience constant
growth. While there were an estimated 440,000 cruisers
in 2005, the number of cruise passengers is expected to
reach 720,000 by 2010.
Costa Crociere’s Asia Division with a
26 member staff, is headed up by Massimo Brancaleoni, who
reports to Costa Crociere President Gianni Onorato, supported
by the General Manager for China, Yaning Lu. The sales channel
consists of a large number of PSAs (preferred sales agents)
operating in all the Asian countries targeted by Costa.
Also, in May the company launched a dedicated call center
with about 15 personnel, located on the mainland of the
People’s Republic of China.
Costa Allegra Gets a Refurbishment
Before Her China Debut
A 12 million Euro redesign project was
successfully completed onboard the Costa Allegra, which
is set to make her debut in the Chinese market this July.
The renovations took approximately 40 days to complete,
and were carried out at the Mariotti shipyard, as well as
in the port of Genoa’s dry-docks. The main objective behind
the project was to offer future Chinese guests a cruise
experience tailor-made to satisfy their needs while maintaining
its trademark European flair. As a result, the new style
of the ship’s interiors was inspired by the Italian neo-classic
period, a style of architecture that is particularly popular
with Chinese consumers.
Renovations on the 28,500-ton Costa Allegra
with a maximum capacity of 1,000 guests included expanding
the Wellness Center’s gym and spa that included additional
treatment rooms and a relaxation area. The shopping area
was expanded to twice its original size and now extends
over 2,153 square feet. The theater was converted into a
lounge with a dance floor and has a seating capacity of
more than 250.
In addition, four new restaurants were
created including the Piazzetta Allegra, an á la carte sushi
and sashimi bar, with a seating capacity of 110. It is also
equipped with an entertainment area in the center for karaoke
performances. The other three restaurants are the à la carte
Amalfi Restaurant; the à la carte Montmartre Verandah Restaurant
featuring an Italian-Asian menu; and separated by a glass
wall, the Montmartre Restaurant with an international menu.
Stateroom renovations focused mainly
on decorative elements, including fabrics and furniture.
While Costa Allegra’s Deck & Engine
Officers as well as the hotel, restaurant and entertainment
managers will be Italians, they will be assisted by a staff
of around 230 Chinese professionals who will be hired from
major hotels in the region. Prior to embarking they will
do a period of training at Costa’s hospitality management
institute in Manila.
The cruises on the Costa Allegra departing
from Shanghai will begin on July 3, 2006. The initial 5-night
itinerary includes stopovers in some of the most popular
places for Chinese tourists, notably Nagasaki (Japan) and
Cheju (Korea). Twenty-four cruises have been scheduled
so far. Costa aims to attract 55,000 Chinese guests a year,
all embarking in domestic ports.
Lindblad Expeditions Launches Seafood
For Thought Initiative
This month, Lindblad Expeditions (LEX)
launched Seafood for Thought, an initiative designed to
provide both information and inspiration when it comes to
helping preserve fish stocks world-wide and making informed
choices about seafood purchasing. The company is working
in partnership with Blue Ocean Institute and the Chefs Collaborative,
organizations dedicated to sustainability, to provide tools
to guide seafood purchases at home and in restaurants.
Lindblad Expeditions wants to ensure
that seafood offerings are carefully selected not only for
flavor, but also for the best fishing practices possible.
Fish suppliers are asked where the catch came from, and
by what method so as not to serve species considered over
fished or caught by practices that have serious negative
environmental impact. Also, the efforts of responsible fisheries
that utilize methods which cause little damage to the ecosystem
are rewarded and supported. The final result is flavorful,
succulent seafood for Lindblad’s guests to savor, while
supporting conservation solutions that help restore living
abundance to the world's oceans.
Blue Ocean Institute (BOI), the Long
Island-based non-profit conducting research on marine health
around the world (www.blueocean.org ), approaches conservation
with a hopeful view—encouraging individuals to reflect and
write about the oceans, something Lindblad guests have been
doing for decades while exploring remote regions of the
world on small-ship expeditions. Together, Lindblad and
BOI hope to instill practical information about good seafood
choices that contribute to long-term sustainability of healthy
ocean populations. BOI was founded by Carl Safina and Mercedes
Lee and combines research and evaluation, writing and publishing,
and direct outreach to the public and chefs.
In addition a network of more than 1,000
chefs and restaurateurs nationwide, the Chefs Collaborative
promotes sustainable cuisine. Lindblad's collaboration with
Chefs Collaborative means the use of local, seasonal ingredients
in shipboard menus, with a focus on finding farmers, fishermen,
and other suppliers sourcing responsibly. Through Seafood
for Thought, Lindblad guests will be invited to download
the Chefs Collaborative Restaurant Guide in order to learn
about ways to support restaurants where chefs choose local,
sustainable and/or artisanal ingredients.
With its partners at BOI and the
Chefs Collaborative, Lindblad Expeditions believes that
knowledge, combined with good facts, can inspire individuals
to become stewards of the world's oceans. Ocean Friendly
Seafood Guides outlining seafood choices from bad to good
can be downloaded at http://www.expeditions.com/sft/index.asp
June 16 , 2006
More news at:
Cruise Itineraries/Offers
New Ships
Exploration/Eco Cruises
Crown
Princess Christened by Lifestyle Expert Martha Stewart
Under sunny skies with the Manhattan skyline as a dramatic
backdrop, Crown Princess, the newest ship in Princess Cruises
fleet, was christened June 14 at her summer homeport in
New York at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.
Steward christens the Crown
Princes
as Princess CEO Peter
Ratcliffe (left) and Captain Andrew Proctor look on
Other participants in the naming ceremony included 13-year-old
Katharine Close, the recent winner of the 2006 Scripps National
Spelling Bee Tournament, who competed in the very first
"Bee At Sea," Princess' new spelling bee tournament;
and pop singer Katharine McPhee who wowed the audience with
her performance.
The 113,000-ton Crown Princess introduces a number of new
design innovations to the Princess fleet, including a dramatic
new piazza-style atrium and new casual dining venues. Within
the new street café environment of the atrium, passengers
find an International Café serving up fresh pastries and
baked goods in the morning and assorted other offerings
throughout the day, as well as a wine and seafood bar.
Several signature Princess venues have been further enhanced,
including an expanded Sabatini's Italian trattoria with
a new piano lounge, and the Crown Grill, a new steak and
seafood restaurant with an open, theater-style kitchen where
chefs will custom-prepare steamed shellfish and cooked-to-order
steaks and chops. The ship also features the many hallmark
features that define the Princess experience, including
the dramatic Movies Under the Stars poolside movie screen,
multiple dining and entertainment options, a Lotus Spa fitness
center, an extensive children and teen's center, a wedding
chapel and nearly 900 staterooms with private balconies.
The ship departs today on its first Caribbean cruise with
stops in Grand Turk, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Port Canaveral,
Florida.
The inaugural 2006 summer season for Crown Princess features
nine-day roundtrip voyages to both the Eastern and Western
Caribbean, and marks the return of Princess visits to Bermuda,
as well as the line's first-ever regular calls to Grand
Turk. In the fall the ship will reposition to San Juan
for winter Caribbean sailings.
Shipsandcruises was on hand to survey the
ship and its ship review follows later this month.
CLIA
And ICCL To Merge Operations, Relocate To Florida
Driven by continued growth in the industry and cruising’s
ever widening share of the leisure travel market, the cruise
industry has announced the merger of two long-standing and
respected trade organizations. New York-based Cruise Lines
International Association (CLIA) will merge with Washington,
DC-based International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL), forming
an expanded organization representing major cruise lines
and more than 17,000 travel agents selling cruises. The
merged organization will continue to be called CLIA, and,
after a transition period, is expected to move its headquarters
to Miami.
Current CLIA President Terry L. Dale will lead the expanded
trade association as president and CEO. Dale has headed
CLIA for nearly three years, during which time many highly
successful outreach and education initiatives have been
launched. Previously, Dale worked as executive vice president
of NYC & Company, New York City’s convention and visitors
bureau. “The synergy and shared energy, skill and experience
created by this merger will help us immeasurably in broadening
and strengthening our support of both our cruise line and
travel agency members and communicating the benefits and
value of a cruise,” said Andy Stuart, CLIA chairman, and
NCL Corporation’s executive vice president of sales, marketing
and passenger services.
The merger was the outcome of an independent study commissioned
by the industry, which recommended that a combined operation
would be more effective and efficient in accomplishing both
organizations’ goals. “As the cruise industry continues
to grow as a global force in the international travel market,
it becomes increasingly important that the industry speak
with one strong, clear voice,” said Richard D. Fain, ICCL
chairman, and chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises
Ltd. “This merger is a logical next step for our industry.”
The expanded structure will incorporate the existing functions
of both the CLIA and ICCL organizations, including agent
training, education and research; marketing; consumer and
public education; industry and government relations; issues
management; safety and environment; and public health. Staff
from both groups will manage the combined operation. “With
the combined resources of both organizations, our job of
promoting cruising will be considerably easier,” said Dale.
“We also have the opportunity to significantly enhance our
ability to serve the travel-agent community, consumers and
the cruise industry.”
Royal
Caribbean Finalizes Agreement To Repurchase Shares of Common
Stock
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has finalized its previously
announced agreement with Goldman, Sachs & Co. to purchase
shares of its common stock for an aggregate purchase price
of approximately $165 million in an accelerated share repurchase
(ASR) transaction. The agreement allows the company to purchase
4,214,130 shares immediately from Goldman, Sachs & Co.
and potentially receive additional shares upon completion
of the transaction up to a maximum of 419,206 shares. The
ultimate number of shares to be repurchased under the agreement
will be based on the company's volume weighted average stock
price, subject to collar provisions which establish the
foregoing minimum and maximum number of shares the company
will receive. The company expects the transaction will be
completed during the third quarter of 2006.
Celebrity
Cruises Pairs With Food Network For Wedding Special
In partnership with Food Network, Celebrity Cruises is preparing
to ensure that one lucky couple enjoys a wedding of "infinite"
possibilities. Celebrity's Infinity has been selected
to serve as the platform for "Food Network Caters Your
Hawaiian Wedding," a two-hour special that will premiere
during the network's "Wedding Weekend" in June
2007. Giada de Laurentis, star of Everyday Italian, will
host the entire event.
Food Network launched its third annual contest to select
the winning couple, whose all-inclusive wedding will include
luxury accommodations onboard Celebrity's Infinity in Hawaii,
a sumptuous rehearsal dinner in the ship's dramatic, two-level
"Trellis" dining room, a designer wedding cake,
a consultation with editors from Brides magazine, a beach-side
ceremony, and the ultimate wedding reception with cuisine
designed by Food Network stars, held in the elegant SS United
States specialty restaurant onboard the ship.
Couples interested in entering the contest for the lavish
wedding should log onto www.FoodNetwork.com
to download the application. The deadline for submissions
is Monday, July 24, 2006.
Fred.Olsen
Cruises Purchases Fifth Cruise Ship
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Pte Limited
has announced that it has reached an agreement to purchase
the cruise ship Norwegian Crown, which is currently
owned by Star Cruises and operated by Norwegian Cruise Lines.
The ship will join the existing Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
fleet of four vessels which operate world wide itineraries
focused mainly on the British market. The 32,242 ton vessel
currently has 1,104 lower berths and originally entered
service in 1988 as Crown Odyssey.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines expects to take
delivery of the vessel in November 2007, and after an extensive
refit will begin cruising under a new name in early 2008.
“This latest ship will fit perfectly into our existing fleet
of small to medium sized vessels, and will extend our range
of itineraries considerably,” said Chairman of Fred. Olsen
Cruise Lines Ltd, Fred. Olsen Jr. “The British cruise market
continues to expand and this acquisition demonstrates our
commitment to this exciting industry.”
’Pacific Princess’ Sails On World Cruise in 2008
Princess Cruises will return to world
cruising in 2008 with a full 102-day adventure aboard the
intimate Pacific Princess. Traveling across six continents,
visiting 31 countries, this journey of a lifetime offers
passengers the opportunity to experience such iconic destinations
as Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat and the Pyramids
of Egypt. Princess passengers tend to be globetrotters by
nature, so we are very happy to once again offer them the
chance to explore on an extended voyage," said Jan
Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service
and sales. "And this unique mix of a small, intimate
shipboard experience combined with such a wide-reaching
and diverse itinerary makes for the ultimate 'round-the-world
adventure."
Ambassadors International, Inc. Acquires 49-Passenger ‘Executive
Explorer ‘
Ambassadors International, Inc. has announced
that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ambassadors Cruise Group,
LLC, has acquired the 49-passenger vessel, Executive
Explorer, for $2.5 million. The Executive Explorer is
fully SOLAS compliant and has successfully operated in Alaska,
Hawaii and other West Coast locations.
David Giersdorf, President and COO of
Ambassadors Cruise Group, stated, "We are pleased to
add a sixth U.S.-flagged cruise vessel to our fleet. The
Executive Explorer is a deluxe small cruise ship capable
of operating extraordinary itineraries that include secluded
scenic areas and quaint communities beyond the reach of
larger ships. We expect her to be quite popular with our
guests who place a premium on combining unique travel experiences
with a high level of comfort and service."
Ambassadors International, Inc., based in Newport Beach, California,
is a cruise, marine, insurance and travel and event company.
Through Ambassadors Cruise Group, the Company operates American
West Cruises and Delta Queen Steamboat Company, North America's
premier river and coastal cruising companies. The Company
also provides travel and event services through its Ambassadors,
LLC subsidiary.
Carnival Corp Orders New Ships For Costa And Aida Cruise Lines
Carnival Corporation & plc has ordered
two cruise ships for its European brands with an option
for a third. Included in this month’s order are a 92,700-ton
vessel for Genoa, Italy-based Costa Crociere, as well as
an option for a sister ship, both to be built by Italy’s
Fincantieri shipyard, and a 68,500-ton ship for its Rostock,
Germany-based AIDA Cruises to be built by Germany’s Meyer
Werft yard. The new vessels will add more than 6,500 total
lower berths to Carnival Corporation & plc’s fleet and
build upon its leadership position within the rapidly expanding
European cruise market, with six million passengers expected
to set sail by 2015. According to Carnival Corporation &
plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison, today’s announcement
continues the company’s aggressive expansion strategy in
the European market. “We have invested a great deal of time
and money expanding and diversifying the European cruise
market which possesses incredible potential for growth,”
These new state-of-the-art ships for Costa and AIDA will
further bolster their positions in the respective markets
and ensure that we have adequate capacity available to meet
growing demand for European cruises.”
The new Costa ships will be built at
Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard and have a basis-two capacity
of 2,260 each. The first ship is scheduled to enter service
in spring 2009. If the option is exercised, the second
ship is slated to debut in fall 2010. The all-in cost for
each vessel will be approximately €420 million. Including
the new ship and option, Costa currently has five new vessels
on order from Fincantieri representing 13,520 total lower
berths. “We’ve demonstrated that the European market is
seeking new itinerary alternatives and that requires a balanced
mix of ships, especially for the more experienced cruiser,”
commented Costa Crociere Chairman and CEO Pier Luigi Foschi.
“Costa’s new programs, including voyages featuring Dubai
in winter/spring 2006/2007 and a series of 13 cruises to
the Far East scheduled for spring 2006 to spring 2007, have
received tremendous response from our European customers,
including a number of sailings selling out in a matter of
days. New ships will allow us to continue to diversify our
cruise offerings for European vacationers,” he added.
The new AIDA ship will have a basis-two
capacity of 2,050. Scheduled delivery is spring 2010. The
vessel’s all-in cost will be approximately €330 million
and marks the fourth 68,500-ton vessel ordered for the brand
in just the past 19 months. Three other vessels, also being
built at Meyer Werft, are slated to debut in 2007, 2008
and 2009. All four vessels will operate under AIDA Cruises’
informal “club resort” cruise concept which is marketed
exclusively to German-speaking clientele and offers a product
aimed at younger, more active passengers who enjoy a host
of on-board amenities and facilities
The German-speaking market is one of
the fastest growing in Europe with one million passengers
expected to set sail by 2010. “To keep pace with this dramatic
growth, we must continue to build ships and develop unique
cruise products such as AIDA that can cater specifically
to the preferences of German-speaking clientele,” Foschi
said.
Including the three new ships announced
today, Costa and AIDA together have nine new ships on order
representing a collective 21,720 total lower berths, more
than any other European cruise line.
Royal Caribbean International Makes
Waves With Surf Series Sponsorship
Royal Caribbean International has announced
its title sponsorship of the 2006 Royal Caribbean Zero to
Hero Surf Series, a national inland surfing event organized
by Wave Loch of La Jolla, California.
The 2006 Royal Caribbean Zero to Hero
Surf Series launched Wave Loch’s 10th year of national competitive
flowboarding at its mecca of youth culture, Wave House San
Diego, on May 20, 2006. The surf series will run through
September 23, 2006 at some of the nation’s top waterparks
that feature FlowRider® attractions. The amateur contest
is open to radical surfers and dedicated bodyboarders of
all ages. “We are thrilled to sponsor the 2006 Royal Caribbean
Zero to Hero Surf Series as it highlights one of our favorite
new cruising innovations, the FlowRider®, a simulated surfing
attraction where riders surf or body board against a wave
with a waterflow of 34,000 gallons per minute, carving turns
and trying tricks,” said Adam Goldstein, president for Royal
Caribbean International. “FlowRider® has become an extremely
popular activity onboard Freedom of the Seas during
her inaugural preview sailings and we anticipate that it
will be a guest favorite now that the ship has begun her
scheduled itinerary sailings from Miami to the Western Caribbean
this week.”
Amateur flowboarders can enter the 2006
Royal Caribbean Zero to Hero Surf Series by contacting their
local participating waterparks. A Wave Loch representative
will lead the judging panel at each local event to ensure
consistency and accuracy. Participants will be judged on
style, maneuvers and degree of difficulty.
All local event winners will be entered
in a drawing to win a seven-night cruise for two on Royal
Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas. Two winners from each
local event will be flown to Wave House San Diego to compete
in the national championship. The Grand Prize winners will
receive a seven-night cruise for two on Royal Caribbean’s
Freedom of the Seas; a “meet and ride” with several pro
surf and skate athletes; surf merchandise; and a medal.
The Royal Caribbean sponsorship includes
a cruise sweepstakes and prize giveaways, online promotion
and branded collateral materials and apparel. For more information
on FlowRider® or the 2006 Royal Caribbean Zero to Hero Surf
Series, go to www.wavetheplanet.com.
New Name for Hebridean Island Cruises
Hebridean Island Cruises has announced
the renaming of the Company to become Hebridean International
Cruises. The change has been designed by Hebridean to
clarify to its potential customers that it in addition to
operating its famous cruises around Scotland's West coastline
it also takes in more exotic destinations such as the Indian
Ocean and South Africa, as well as the Mediterranean and
The Arabian Seas. Speaking about this small but very important
change of name, Munir Samji, Hebridean’s Chief Executive,
said: “We believe that this change of name will increase
understanding of Hebridean and what we offer. We have long
been acknowledged as the World’s leading luxury cruise operator,
but for some years now we have been expanding our operations
and it is imperative that our name truly reflects the diversity
of our cruises and their destinations.”
But Samji went on to stress, “Some things,
however, will definitely not be changing: the uncompromising
standards of luxury, comfort, service and exclusivity, which
are the hallmarks of our company, will still continue to
set us apart from all other cruise companies. Since its
birth in 1989, Hebridean has firmly established itself as
the leading luxury cruise company worldwide and we intend
to continue to bring our unrivalled standards to every part
of the world which we visit.”
The change of name is timed to coincide
with Hebridean’s launch of its exciting new Winter and Spring
2006 - 2007 brochure which takes in the Mediterranean and
Red Seas, the Indian Ocean and the West Coast of Africa.
For further information on Hebridean International Cruises,
visit Hebridean’s newly revamped website www.hebridean.co.uk.
Cruise West Tour Leaders Earn Interpretive
Guide Certification
Cruise West has once again set new standards
for guest experiences in the Alaska. All of their trademark
land-based Exploration Leaders and land-tour drivers in
Alaska recently completed the National Association of Interpretation’s
Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) course, making Cruise
West the first cruising company to receive this certification.
The program gives these guides the tools
to improve the interpretive education and experience obtained
on the land tours, providing added value and a more meaningful
connection to the region for those guests who travel with
Cruise West on any Alaska adventure. The 32-hour course
trains guides in the basics of theme-based presentations,
improving skills to tailor lectures to different audiences
and respond to questions. Guides learn to construct tours
to make the excursion enjoyable, relevant, organized and
thematic. “Cruise West strives to provide guests with meaningful
and inspiring journeys,” said John Kreilkamp, VP Alaska
Land. “We believe that the CIG certification is necessary
to truly educate and connect guests with the vast regions
of Alaska.”
‘ms Noordam’ Rescues 22 in Aegean
Sea Off the Coast of Greece
At 5:44 a.m. local time on Tuesday, June
6, the ms Noordam rescued 22 people from the Aegean Sea
in waters between Turkey and Greece. The individuals, believed
to be refugees from a number of countries, had been sailing
on a boat which had capsized.
Ship's officers and other crew began
implementing rescue procedures as soon as a sailor working
on the aft of the ship spotted a person floating in the
water. One fast rescue boat and two tenders were lowered
and the 22 people, all wearing life jackets, were brought
aboard within two hours and 15 minutes. One child, who had
not been wearing a life vest, was later found dead by Greek
officials. Medical staff on the Noordam treated the individuals
for any injuries.
Noordam’s rescue craft bringing survivor aboard
The Noordam arrived in Kusadasi, Turkey,
at 9:30 a.m. local time on June 6, approximately two hours
behind schedule. Turkish authorities immediately began processing
the refugees and later permitted them to disembark in Kusadasi
for handling in accordance with international requirements.
Guests aboard were kept updated on the rescue by public-address
announcements and notices from the captain. "In a situation
such as this we are certainly happy to have helped so many
people in dire circumstances. The crew performed admirably,"
said Stein Kruse, president and CEO, Holland America Line.
"We also are very thankful and appreciative of the
Turkish authorities for allowing these people to disembark
for later repatriation. We recognize the important commitment
the leadership of Turkey has demonstrated to cruise ship
safety as well as their respect for international law and
their compassion for people who are less fortunate."
The ms Noordam was on a scheduled 10-day
cruise roundtrip from Civitavecchia, Italy, and proceeding
with 1,847 passengers and approximately 800 crew from the
port of Santorini, Greece, to Kusadasi, Turkey. The ship
concluded the cruise on June 10 in Civitavecchia.
Holland America Line Honored for Whale
Conservation Program
Holland America Line's "Avoiding
Whale Strikes" program and the cruise company's leadership
and commitment to the conservation of whales have been recognized
by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's
National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA's Fisheries Service)
with a Conservation Partnership Award, part of a newly established
Sustainable Fisheries Leadership Awards Program. "It
is a great honor to be recognized by NOAA for our conservation
efforts," said Stein Kruse, Holland America Line President
and Chief Executive Officer. "We are committed to protecting
the environment, and are thrilled to be recognized for our
stewardship, particularly by an outstanding organization
such as NOAA."
To assist in the recovery and ensure
the safety of all whale species, Holland America Line, in
cooperation with NOAA's Fisheries Service and the National
Parks Service, developed and launched the comprehensive
and interactive computer-based training program. All deck
officers on Holland America Line vessels have taken the
course.
An essential part of "Avoiding Whale
Strikes" is basic instruction on identifying whale
types. Sections of the program discuss surface characteristics
of each species, such as blow patterns (the shape of the
spray when a whale breathes out through its blowhole), how
many times a whale might blow before diving, whether it
shows its fluke before diving and how many whales might
be in the group. For example, right whales have a distinctive
two-column V-shaped blow, typically travel alone or in groups
of two or three, usually blow 10 to 15 times before diving
and show their fluke before deep dives. Identifying the
species and anticipating individual behavioral patterns
greatly reduce the chance of collisions.
Also at the heart of the "Avoiding
Whale Strikes" program is a series of precautionary
measures that ships' crews can take once the species is
identified. For instance, in areas with high concentrations
of whales, or when a species is known to travel in large
groups, additional lookouts should be assigned. The ship
should slow to 10 knots if a mother and calf are spotted,
or drift if the ship is surrounded by a pod of whales.
Holland America Line has freely distributed
the program throughout the cruise ship industry via industry
organizations, as well as given the United States government
copyright to distribute the program to shipping and military
interests. The one-hour program is available to the maritime
community to help all ships avoid striking whales. A number
of prestigious organizations are using the program, including
the International Whaling Commission (which regulates commercial
whaling throughout the world), the Federal Public Service
Office of the European Union and the Southeast Alaska Pilot's
Association.
For more information on the award-winning
"Avoiding Whale Strikes" program contact National
Marine Fisheries Service and the National Parks Service
at www.nmfs.noaa.gov.
Discovery Cruise Line Announces Hurricane
Policy
Discovery Cruise Line, the largest tour
operator from South Florida to Grand Bahama Island, announced
its hurricane policy for this year's hurricane season. Hanns
J. Hahn, the General Manager of Discovery, said that "the
active hurricane seasons of the past two years make it important
to assure those who have booked cruises, or who want to
book cruises, that they will not lose their deposits in
the event of cancellations caused by approaching hurricanes.
In addition," Hahn said, "Discovery offers travel
insurance at a very reasonable cost covering vacation disruptions,
lost luggage, and medical emergencies."
The policy provides that "In the
event of a hurricane watch or warning being posted by the
National Hurricane Center for Southeast Florida or the Northern
Bahamas during the time of your travel, you may cancel or
rebook your trip without penalty." It further says
that "Any passengers vacationing on the island during
the posting of a hurricane watch or warning who may wish
to return from the island earlier than originally booked
are welcome to do so without penalty (based on space availability)."
Costa Introduces First and Only Grand
Prix Driving Simulator on a Cruise Ship
Guests sailing aboard the new Costa
Concordia can learn how to race like the pros on the
ship's state-of- the-art Grand Prix driving simulator—the
first and only of its kind on a cruise ship. Recently installed
on the ship, the simulator features real-time vehicle modeling,
the same technology used by Grand Prix champion drivers
in training. The Costa Concordia, which weighs 112,000 tons
and has a total guest capacity of 3,780, is the newest and
largest ship in the Costa fleet and will sail the Mediterranean
in her first season beginning this summer.
Located on one of the top decks of the
Costa Concordia, guests can "virtually" compete
in a Grand Prix race at speeds of over 200 miles per hour
on the simulator. In addition, they can record their performance
throughout the week to compete with themselves as well as
other guests. The Grand Prix simulator is reserved for guests
16 years of age and older. "The Costa Concordia offers
some of the most incredible innovations ever seen on a cruise
ship -- from the Samsara Spa, which is the largest spa at
sea, to the Grand Prix simulator, the ship is truly revolutionary,"
said Lynn Torrent, President and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines-North
America. "As an Italian company, the Grand Prix driving
simulator is especially exciting as it gives us an opportunity
to share the country's great enthusiasm for racing with
our international clientele."
Finishing touches on the Costa Concordia
are currently being completed at the Fincantieri shipyards
in Genoa, Italy. The official delivery of the ship is scheduled
for June 30 and inaugural festivities will take place in
Rome on July 7.
Lindblad
Honored For Sustainable Tourism Achievements In Galapagos
Sven-Olof Lindblad, President and Founder
of Lindblad Expeditions, received international recognition
for his innovative and successful model of tourism on Saturday
evening, May 27th in a ceremony hosted by HRH, Grand Duke
Henri of Luxembourg at the Grand-Ducal Palace. To further
honor the entrepreneur for his dedication to the conservation
and environmental stewardship of the Galapagos archipelago,
a new species of endemic moth was named in Lindblad's honor
by the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) and presented in
a framed photograph.
Lindblad Expeditions has been taking
curious and intrepid travelers to the island group since
1967 when Lars-Eric Lindblad, Sven's father, led one of
the first non-scientific expeditions with the goal of approaching
tourism with the lightest footprint possible. Sven Lindblad
took that approach further by creating a model of tourism
that integrates action by all stakeholders including visitors,
the tourism industry and well-established local conservation
groups. Since 1997, Lindblad Expeditions guests have contributed
more than $3.5 million to Lindblad's Galapagos Conservation
Fund, started by Lindblad, which directly supports on-the-ground
conservation projects in the region. "The Galapagos
Conservation Fund provides critical funding for essential
projects such as environmental education and research and
building sustainable businesses in the islands," said
CDF's Executive Director, Dr. Graham Watkins. "The
GCF has made a tremendous difference to our effectiveness
in fulfilling our mission," he added.
MSC Cruises
Expanding Its Presence In Northern Europe
MSC Cruises has its sights set on significantly
expanding its presence in the Northern Europe cruise market.
Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO for MSC Cruises, detailed the line’s
Northern Europe expansion program at a May 18 press conference
in Copenhagen. A key element of the program is a continued
strong relationship between MSC Cruises and SAS (Scandinavian
Airlines).
Successful summer seasons have made MSC
Cruises a leader in Northern Europe. Due to continued interest
and increased demand, MSC has doubled its capacity in the
region this summer, with both MSC Lirica and MSC
Rhapsody offering new and exclusive itineraries. “We
believe in the success of our Northern Europe cruise program.
MSC Lirica and MSC Rhapsody symbolize the elegance and style
of MSC Cruises,” said Vago. “In 2007 MSC Opera will
also be positioned to sail in Northern Europe, while in
2008 we will have three ships there – MSC Melody, MSC
Opera and MSC Poesia – with the potential to carry a
total of 126,000 passengers.”
During this expansion program, it is
anticipated that the total number of Italian cruise passengers
in Northern Europe will increase from 8,500 in 2004 to 126,000
in 2008; while the number of port calls in Northern Europe
will grow four times, from 12 in 2004 to 44 in 2008. “These
are very significant numbers for our exclusive partner SAS
and the local tourist economy,” Vago said. “The number of
airline tickets from Italy to Scandinavia for MSC Cruises’
passengers is expected to increase from 1,020 in 2004 to
17,000 for 2008. Plus, thanks to the promotions carried
out by MSC Cruises, Scandinavians are booking more Mediterranean
cruises, with the 4,900 cruising passengers in 2005 expected
to increase 144 percent to more than 12,000 in 2008.”
This season, MSC Rhapsody will cruise
for the first time from Amsterdam. Beginning on May 20,
2006, she will offer seven-night itineraries to the Norwegian
Fjords plus a new route for the discovery of the Shetland
Isles and the Scottish coastline. In June, she will also
sail from Amsterdam to the North Cape. MSC Lirica will be
positioned in Copenhagen, where she will sail every week
to the Norwegian Fjords and the Baltic Capitals. “MSC Cruises
is looking for market leadership on all fronts as it continues
to expand its fleet. By 2009 there will be 12 ships in the
fleet, all offering excellent service, the key to the company’s
success,” says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC
Cruises (USA).
Seabourn
Publishes 2007-08 Cruise Catalogue
Ultra luxury small ship specialist Seabourn
Cruise Line has published a 104-page, full color catalogue
featuring cruise vacations aboard its three yacht-like,
all-suite ships through the first quarter of 2008.
The 15-month schedule includes 125 cruises
aboard Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend, calling at more
than 225 ports in 64 countries between January 2007 and
April 2008. The catalogue is available at many luxury travel
agencies, or it may be ordered by calling Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391
or by visiting www.seabourn.com
.
CLIA’s New 2006 Survey Ranks Caribbean As Top Cruise Destination
According to CLIA’s new 2006 Cruise
Market Profile Stud, the Caribbean ranks as the most
appealing destination (47%) among US cruisers. Alaska ranks
second (28%), followed by The Bahamas (22%), Bermuda and
Hawaii each at (16%), Mediterranean Greek Isles & Turkey
(13%); Europe (10%). The west coast of Mexico and the Panama
Canal each ranked 9%; Canada/New England ranked 6%, while
coastal US ranked 5% and South America (4%).
Regent Seven Seas Announces Inclusive
Liquor Policy For 2007
Regent Seven Seas® will ring in 2007
with good cheer, literally toasting its guests with a new
inclusive liquor policy, which will offer select complimentary
wine and spirits at all bars and restaurants fleet wide
on every sailing. “Luxury Goes Exploring®” in 2007 with
worldwide cruises from seven to 111 nights in length – reaching
21 new ports of call from Kotor (Montenegro) to Yasawa (Fiji).
“As part of our re-branding to Regent in March, we’re instituting
an inclusive liquor policy across the fleet for all 2007
cruises,” said Mark Conroy, president of Regent. “Our World
Cruises already have this inclusive liquor policy, and our
guests have told us how much they like it. In fact, we’ve
noticed how the policy has contributed to the air of conviviality
aboard, with more people getting out of their suites socializing.
It’s this open, intimate spirit of camaraderie we wish to
foster on all Regent voyages.”
While most aspects of Regent Seven Seas’
re-branding will be in place in 2006, final touches will
be applied in 2007 with the updating of staterooms/suites
(including installation of flat screen TVs) and an expanded
roster of personalized Regent Travel ConciergeSM offerings.
Royal Caribbean Names Top Federal
Security Expert To Head Worldwide Security
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. appointed
top federal security and law enforcement executive, Gary
M. Bald, vice president of Global Security, a new position
being assigned broad responsibilities for assessing, managing
and continuously improving companywide security. A week
earlier, Bald stepped down as Executive Assistant Director
for the National Security Branch of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI), the third senior-most post at the agency.
Bald’s new post will report directly to company Chairman
and CEO Richard D. Fain.
Bald spent nearly 29 years at the FBI,
where he gained broad experience and received numerous honors
and awards for his exemplary leadership in both national
security and criminal law enforcement. In his most recent
job, at the National Security Branch, Bald headed the bureau’s
counterterrorism, counterintelligence and intelligence programs
worldwide and directed the efforts of 19,000 employees.
Bald comes on board June 12.
Seven
Seas Navigator’ Takes On
Regent Name In Venice
Regent Seven Seas'® 490-guest all-suite
(90% with private balconies) Seven Seas Navigator®
became the fourth ship in the fleet (formerly Radisson Seven
Seas) to change her funnel logo to "Regent" during
an unveiling ceremony May 27 in Venice. The re-branding
master of ceremonies Captain Alfredo Romeo raised a glass
of champagne in celebration.
The acclaimed vessel, now en route
to Monte Carlo, will sail around the Iberian Peninsula to
the Baltic for a series of voyages between Copenhagen and
Stockholm in July and August. She will return to the Mediterranean
in August for seven-night sailings through November.
Aker Yards And ALSTOM Finalized Merger
Aker Yards and ALSTOM have finalized their
intent to merge. The transaction was concluded during a
signature ceremony in Paris on May 31 2006.
A new company with the name Aker Yards
SA.has been established to which Chantiers de l'Atlantique
will transfer its employees, assets and cruise ships contracts.
Aker Yards SA consists of the shipyards in Saint Nazaire
and Lorient, and will be a part of the Cruise & Ferries
business area in Aker Yards. Aker Yards owns 75 % of Aker
Yards SA, and ALSTOM the remaining 25 % until 2010.
Jacques Hardelay , the former COO of Chantiers
de l’Atlantique, is now the Managing Director of Aker Yards
SA as of June 1. Hardelay will report to Yrjö Julin, the
President of Cruise & Ferries business area in Aker
Yards.
By being part of Aker Yards, Aker Yards
SA is expected to benefit from a broadened product range
and strong industrial synergies. Aker Yards Cruise &
Ferries business area will also benefit from a unique design
competence, combining the long tradition of French and Finnish
cruise shipbuilding that has produced icons such as SS France,
Queen Mary 2, the Voyager class and the Freedom class ships.
Aker Yards now has 15 yards in 6 countries,
and more than 16 000 employees.
Carnival Pioneers Electronic Medical
Reporting
A new electronic medical reporting system
is now in use fleetwide at Carnival Cruise Lines. Developed
in-house by a shipboard doctor, ‘STARDOCS’ is a software
program that collects data on illnesses, alerts managers
when cases rise above normal levels and automatically generates
reports to U.S. and Canadian health officials.
STARDOCS stands for ‘Surveillance, Treatment
and Reporting of Disease on Cruise Ships’ and is copyrighted
by the developer, Dr. Jabez Steenkamp, a seven-year Carnival
physician.
The need for such a system stems from
new reporting requirements by the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control’s Vessel Sanitation Program and also the CDC’s Division
of Quarantine in response to the World Health Organization’s
aim of tracking and controlling pandemic flu and other diseases.
STARDOCs also generates electronic reports
in the required formats to the Vessel Sanitation Program
and Health Canada.
The next generation of STARDOCS is already
under development and will add features that should help
in the tracking and control of diseases. For example, the
program could flag relevant clues, such as the fact that
people falling ill ate at the same restaurant. Also, Carnival
is working to create a full electronic system, 'CruiseMed,'
which will include data on crew members. STARDOCS is part
of that.
Later this year, Carnival reportedly
plans to make STARDOCS available to other cruise lines.
Tasting Menu Trend Goes To Sea
Always a pioneer of innovative cruise
cuisine, Seabourn Cruise Line has once again successfully
translated a tasteful trend popularized by upper-tier shoreside
restaurants to its three intimate, yacht-like ships. When
the line introduced innovative dinner menus called “Tastings
@ 2” to its more casual alternative onboard dining venue,
it became the first cruise line to feature a multi-course,
small-plate dining experience on board. According
to Deborah L. Natansohn, Seabourn’s president, “Seabourn’s
guests are very sophisticated diners, who seek out creative
and inventive chefs both at home and as they travel around
the world. They have experienced the way many of today’s
chefs are fusing ideas from Spanish tapas and French menus
degustation and Asian multi-course traditions to create
diverse, interesting meals, and they expect to find the
same sort of inventive cuisine on our ships.”
Seabourn Corporate Executive Chef Anton
“Tony” Egger, who designed the Tastings @ 2 menus, says
that he will be “able to mix and match, highlight one dish
or serve an assortment of flavors to be tasted together.
By serving more than one dish per course, I can create a
multitude of flavors and sensations in a single meal of
five or six courses.”
To accomplish this nightly symphony,
the galleys for the ships’ Veranda Cafés were expanded to
accommodate two chefs working simultaneously to prepare
and plate the dozens of dishes that make up each meal. Even
though each night’s menu is fixed, the mis en place array
of ingredients and seasonings is staggeringly complex, and
the pace of preparation Olympian.
The menus created challenges for the
service brigade, as well. Accustomed to serving one dish
at a time, the waiters and assistants have had to retool
the rhythm and choreography of delivery and clearing to
match the varied courses and adjust to the fact that some
dishes now consist of only a bite or two. It is a tribute
to their professionalism and skill that they are able to
make the transition nightly. “When they put on the 2 uniform,”
says Egger, “they also change their mindset!”
2, which accommodates about 50 of each
ship’s 208 guests each night by reservation, is located
high atop the Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn
Legend, in the popular, casual Veranda Café indoor/outdoor
venue used for buffet breakfasts and luncheons daily. There
are six Tastings @ 2 menus, which rotate.
‘The Norway’ Awaits Scrapping
After an unsuccessful attempt by Greenpeace
International to halt the scrapping of the Norway,
the ship is awaiting scrapping. The Indian Supreme Court
recently allowed the passage of the ship to the ship breakers
site at Alang in Gujarat state. Greenpeace appealed to keep
the 46-year-old ship that has been called the Blue Lady,
the France and most recently the Norway from being sent
to an Indian scrap yard. Greenpeace contended that the vessel
is filled with 1,000 tons of asbestos and other toxic chemicals
and is harmful to workers and the environment. Reportedly
the Gujarat Maritime Board will be working with a private
company that will monitor potential pollution hazards and
a plot of land adjacent to the yard will be used for containing
asbestos and the disposal of hazardous materials from the
ship. All arrangements are to be inspected by two regulatory
bodies before the ship is beached.
The ship has sailed for Norwegian Cruise
Line, but it has been out of service since May 2003, after
a boiler room explosion onboard killed eight crewmembers.
