CruiseNews

Royal Princess Announced as Ship's Name As the first steel plate was cut today marking the official start of construction of Princess Cruises' next ship, the line unveiled the vessel's profile, released preliminary details about some of its features, and revealed its name -- Royal Princess. This will be the third time the name Royal Princess has been given to a Princess ship. Debuting in spring of 2013, the new 141,000-ton, 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is the first of two new-generation ships for Princess which are being built by Fincantieri at their Monfalcone, Italy shipyard. The prototype design is an evolution of the line's classic style of ships, while including some new features and expanded signature spaces. A new design element revealed today is an over-water SeaWalkSM, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship's starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel. From here passengers can enjoy dramatic views, including to the sea 128 feet below. On the ship's port side, passengers will find a similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas. Also on her top decks, Royal Princess will feature a new adults-only pool surrounded by seven plush private cabanas that appear to be floating on the water. Two additional pools will flank a tropical island that will offer pool seating by day, and by night will become an outdoor dance club, complete with a dazzling water and light show. Princess' signature adults-only haven, The Sanctuary, will be expanded both in size and amenities. The popular poolside theater, Movies Under the Stars, will play a starring role mid-ship with an expanded size and high-definition viewing. "Princess passengers will easily recognize our next ship as a natural progression in our fleet," said Princess President and CEO Alan Buckelew. "We're taking the best features of our newest vessels that have been such customer pleasers, and taking them to the next level. Just as the original Royal Princess ushered in a new era for our company with its innovative design, we expect our new Royal Princess to do the same." Inside the ship, one of the line's hallmark venues, the Piazza atrium, will be significantly expanded. This area will be the multi-faceted social hub of the vessel, combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. All outside staterooms on Royal Princess will have balconies, which means that 80 percent of the ship's staterooms will include this desirable feature. Royal Princess will include 260,000 square feet of inside public space with multiple dining and entertainment venues, as well as other special features and amenities which will be revealed over the coming months. A sister ship to Royal Princess will be launched in spring 2014. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Epic set to arrive in Barcelona on May 18, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Line today announced that it is launching a new campaign promoting its diverse and unique Freestyle Cruising offerings in Europe and its recognition of being named "Europe's Leading Cruise Line" three years in a row (2008, 2009 and 2010) by the World Travel Awards. These awards recognize travel companies for delivering an outstanding customer experience and are voted by travel agents worldwide. This spring, the line's newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian Epic, will make her debut in Europe cruising seven-day Western Mediterranean itineraries departing from Barcelona from mid-May through October. The 4,100-passenger Norwegian Epic offers the ultimate in Freestyle Cruising with more than 20 dining options; the largest suite complex at sea; award-winning staterooms for solo travelers, world-class entertainment featuring Blue Man Group; Legends in Concert; Nickelodeon at Sea; and Cirque Dreams and Dinner; along with the first ice bar at sea; among many other offerings. Norwegian Sun makes her debut sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark offering nine-day Baltic Capitals voyages, which is the only cruise itinerary of this length to include an overnight stay in St. Petersburg, Russia. In addition, Norwegian Jade, cruising year-round in Europe, offers seven-day Greek Isles and Adriatic itineraries from Venice, Italy through early October and 10-and 11-day Eastern Mediterranean and Holy Land itineraries from mid-October through April 2012 from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. In addition to having more dining choices than any other cruise line in Europe, all onboard restaurants on all three ships will have extended dinner hours on European sailings so guests will have more time to enjoy their day. "Being named Europe's Leading Cruise Line three years in a row is a prestigious honor and we are pleased that travel partners around the world have voted our Freestyle Cruising ships as the best of the best in Europe," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's chief executive officer. "Freestyle Cruising is the perfect fit for cruising throughout Europe since it offers guests the freedom and flexibility to soak in the culture and rich history in our dynamic ports of call during the day and then come back to the ship to relax in the evening." Norwegian's European campaign features a variety of new materials for both consumers and travel partners. Available in mid-April, a new dedicated Europe brochure highlights all of the company's offerings in Europe, including detailed information on Norwegian's three ships sailing in the region in 2011 from desired vacation destinations such as Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; and Copenhagen, Denmark. Consumers and travel agents can also view three videos on Europe, Freestyle Cruising and one specific to Norwegian Epic to give them an idea of what to expect from Norwegian in Europe. These videos will be available for ordering on the company's web site, along with being posted to social media sites. In addition, Norwegian's "Free Upgrades For All" promotion (www.ncl.com/upgrade), extended through March 31, focuses on European sailings and provides guests with a balcony upgrade for the price of an oceanview stateroom, or a spacious mini-suite for the price of a balcony on the line's newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian Epic, and e-coupons in on-board savings worth more than $400. About Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator in cruise travel with a 44-year history of breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising, most notably with the introduction of Freestyle Cruising which has revolutionized the industry by allowing guests more freedom and flexibility. Today, Norwegian has 11 purpose-built Freestyle Cruising ships, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed cruise vacation on some of the newest and most contemporary ships at sea. The Company contracted for two 4,000-berth vessels for delivery in spring 2013 and spring 2014. Norwegian's largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, debuted in June 2010. Norwegian Cruise Line is the official cruise line of Blue Man Group, debuting for the first time at sea on Norwegian Epic, as well as the official cruise line of Legends in Concert, Second City® Comedy Troupe, Howl at the Moon Dueling Pianos, Gibson Guitar, and Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids. Cirque Dreams" & Dinner is also featured on board Norwegian Epic as the first show of its kind at sea under a big top. Click here to view the article

Carnival Cruise Lines announced a unique and exciting new “Fun Ship” cruise program from Port Canaveral, Fla. The 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy will operate four- and five-day Bahamas cruises from the Space Coast beginning November 7, 2011. The move further bolsters Carnival’s position as Port Canaveral’s largest cruise operator with three year-round ships carrying approximately 600,000 guests annually. “In addition to offering a convenient departure point for millions of consumers in the southeastern U.S., along with attractive port facilities and excellent flight options into nearby Orlando, Port Canaveral is an extremely popular homeport and we’re excited to provide our guests with some fantastic new cruise choices from Central Florida,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. On the Carnival Ecstasy’s new schedule, two different four-day itineraries will be offered, along with two different five-day itineraries. Carnival Ecstasy will depart Thursdays on four-day ‘long weekend’ cruises visiting Nassau and Half Moon Cay or Freeport. Five-day cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays and call at Nassau, Freeport and Half Moon Cay or Key West. With Carnival Ecstasy’s new four- and five-day schedule, combined with year-round three- and four-day Bahamas cruises aboard Carnival Sensation and seven-day eastern and western Caribbean voyages on Carnival Dream, the line will offer an unprecedented array of cruise lengths and itineraries from Port Canaveral. Prior to repositioning to Port Canaveral, the Carnival Ecstasy will continue to operate from Galveston, Texas through September 8, 2011 and then from New Orleans September 22 through November 5, 2011, as previously scheduled. Carnival Elation from New Orleans Carnival Elation will reposition from Mobile, Ala., to New Orleans to operate year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises beginning November 5, 2011. On this route, four-day cruises will depart Thursdays and visit Cozumel, one of the Caribbean’s most popular ports, while five-day voyages will call at both Cozumel and Progreso. Carnival Elation’s new schedule from New Orleans replaces the previously announced program from that port on the Carnival Ecstasy. Carnival Elation will join the Carnival Conquest in New Orleans, marking the first time Carnival has operated two ships from New Orleans in six years. Carnival will be the only cruise line with two ships based year-round in New Orleans, carrying more than 350,000 passengers annually. Guests with Current Reservations As a result of these deployment changes, Carnival will no longer offer cruises from Mobile, Ala. Guests booked on those voyages will have the option of re-booking from an alternate homeport and receive a $25 per person onboard credit, or they can elect to receive a full refund. Guests booked on cruises from New Orleans on the Carnival Ecstasy that will now be operated on the Carnival Elation are being automatically shifted to the Carnival Elation. Itineraries on the Carnival Elation will be identical to those that were scheduled for the Carnival Ecstasy. The two vessels are sister ships with largely similar features, amenities and staterooms. (Those guests who were booked in standard balcony staterooms on the Carnival Ecstasy – a cabin category not featured on the Carnival Elation – will be contacted individually to discuss their preferences.) The movement of bookings from Carnival Ecstasy to Carnival Elation will be completed by Friday, March 11, 2011. New Reservations Carnival will begin accepting reservations for the Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Elation’s new programs from Port Canaveral and New Orleans beginning Friday, March 11. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its Northeast America deployment schedule for the 2012/2013 autumn and winter season which features two, large Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from New York offering a variety of itineraries, the company said in a statement. For the first time, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Pearl will sail from New York beginning in October 2012, offering a series of 21 seven-day Bahamas and Florida cruises, along with three 12-day Southern Caribbean voyages. Norwegian Gem, also accommodating 2,394 passengers, will continue to homeport in New York where she will offer a series of 24 nine-day Eastern Caribbean voyages and four 10-day cruises to Eastern Canada and Quebec. Rounding out the autumn season from the Northeast, Norwegian Dawn will sail seven day cruises to Canada and New England from both Boston and Quebec for five weeks starting from September 21, 2012. “With the arrival of Norwegian Pearl in New York, we will have two of our newer and larger Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from this very popular homeport,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “New Yorkers love Freestyle Cruising because it suits their needs. With two of our Jewel-class ships in New York, we are giving guests more choice and the opportunity to sail longer cruises to the Caribbean.” Norwegian Pearl will make her New York debut on October 14, 2012, sailing a seven-day itinerary that calls on Orlando & the Beaches (Port Canaveral); Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island) and Nassau, Bahamas. The three 12-day Southern Caribbean cruises, on January 6, January 20 and February 3, 2013, include stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados and St. John’s, Antigua; as well as five relaxing days at sea. Norwegian Pearl will also offer three opportunities to experience Freestyle Cruising on a two-day getaway sailing from New York on January 18, February 1 and February 15, 2013. Continuing to homeport in New York, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem will sail two newly extended itineraries to Eastern Canada and Quebec and the Eastern Caribbean. Norwegian Gem will begin her four 10-day sailings to Canada and Quebec on September 8, 2012; calling on Halifax, Nova Scotia; an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Sydney, Nova Scotia. From October 20, 2012 to April 18, 2013, Norwegian Gem’s nine-day itinerary to the Eastern Caribbean will stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Samana, Dominican Republic. Beginning on September 21, 2012, the 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will spend the autumn season in Canada and New England. The ship will offer three seven-day sailings from Boston visiting Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspésie, Quebec; Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec and ending in Quebec City, Quebec. Norwegian Dawn will also offer two seven-day sailings from Quebec calling Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Sydney, Nova Scotia, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine. Guests can combine these itineraries into a 14-day cruise, with an option to embark from either Boston or Quebec. This will be the first time Norwegian Cruise Line will visit Gaspésie in Quebec Click here to view the article

Guests looking for a longer Caribbean adventure can set sail on Carnival Miracle this spring when the 2,124-passenger ship offers two different eight-day itineraries sailing round-trip from New York. Beginning April 14, the ship begins sailing from the Big Apple south toward the Caribbean’s golden beaches and sun-filled skies while calling at some of the region’s most popular and picturesque ports. The first itinerary includes stops at San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its colonial fortresses, eco-adventures and designer boutiques, as well as St. Thomas and Grand Turk, two of the most diverse yet beautiful destinations in the region. Both are known for their gorgeous white-sand beaches, as well as abundance of water-related activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving in crystalline waters teeming with colorful marine life. The second itinerary features calls at Nassau, Bahamas, and Grand Turk, in addition to Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island with turquoise waters, powdery beaches and plenty of fun activities such as parasailing, horseback riding and stingray encounters, as well as a new pirate-themed watering hole called Captain Morgan on the Rocks. The eight-day Caribbean itineraries include multiple days at sea, giving these cruises the best of both worlds — exciting ports of call combined with plenty of time to get the full “Fun Ship” experience. While on board, guests can take advantage of popular amenities and activities like the three-deck high Twister Waterslide, luxurious spa facilities, casino gambling, and numerous bars and lounges. For younger cruisers, Carnival’s youth programs offer modern play areas and enthusiastic counselors who lead fun-filled activities from morning until night. Carnival Miracle will continue its New York-based Caribbean program through Oct. 5 then reposition to Fort Lauderdale for its winter Caribbean cruise schedule. Click here to view the article

"The Allure of Love" and "Royal Reunion" Center Around Romance and Multi-Generational Family Travel on the High Seas What does a modern day romantic cruise adventure look like? In her directorial debut, Jenny McCarthy stars in a sexy romantic comedy set onboard Royal Caribbean International's newest cruise ship, Allure of the Seas. McCarthy, along with Hollywood veteran James Brolin, recently wrapped the "Ocean Views" film series project commissioned by Royal Caribbean, whereby the actors not only directed, but also star in, original short films designed to share great cinematic stories, while highlighting the variety of cruising experiences one can enjoy with Royal Caribbean. The film series marks the first time any cruise line has made the foray into the digital film forum. Created and produced by Mindshare Entertainment in association with GenerateLA, the films are expected to attract a variety of audiences, including those who may not have otherwise shown interest in taking a cruise vacation. "In today's ever-changing digital landscape, it's important to recognize that consumers are getting their information from a variety of channels," stated Betsy O'Rourke, SVP Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. "Royal Caribbean has always been known for its innovation, and the creation of these short films allows us to share our story with a wider audience that may not have considered a cruise vacation." McCarthy's film "The Allure of Love" – which marks the actress's first time both in front of and behind the camera – tells the story of two friends, Jessie (Courtney Henggeler) and Patrick (Charles Malik Whitfield) hatching the perfect plan to get a pair of star-crossed exes back together, Annie (McCarthy) and Bradley (Scott Elrod). But things go awry when technology gets in the way and the couple engages in a game of online picture posting one-upsmanship. It's an unexpected comedic journey about rekindling romance on the high seas. No stranger to filmmaking, James Brolin directs and stars in "Royal Reunion," a heart-warming film about a multi-generational family voyage on Royal Caribbean International's Allure of the Seas. Ben (Brolin) and Elaine (Caroline Lagerfelt) are celebrating their 40th anniversary on a cruise with their son, Jack (Dean Cain), daughter-in-law, Franny (Amy Yasbeck) and granddaughter, Sarah (Chelsea Ricketts). All that is missing is their fun-loving son, Nicky (Justin Baldoni) who decides to hide out and surprise everyone with his unexpected presence. After a series of comedic near-misses with his parents and brother, he discovers that the biggest surprises of all are the things that he doesn't know about his family. "It was a once in a lifetime experience to shoot these short films on the largest ship in the world," said David Lang, President – North America, Mindshare Entertainment. "Through these films we hope to engage consumers by telling great entertaining stories, while also giving them a unique insight into what a cruise vacation can be with Royal Caribbean." "The Allure of Love" and "Royal Reunion" will debut on Sun., March 13 during an exclusive premiere event onboard Allure of the Seas in her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Trailers for the short films are available at www.RoyalCaribbean.com and the films will be available in their entirety at 4p.m. on Sun., March 13. Immediately following the premiere, Jenny McCarthy (@jennymccarthy) will host a Twitter party from 5p.m. – 6p.m. with Justin Baldoni (@justinbaldoni), Amy Yasbeck (@amyyasbeck4real) and Scott Elrod (@scott_elrod) to discuss the films and their experiences onboard Allure of the Seas. Media and consumers alike can join the party by following #OceanViews on Twitter and follow host @RoyalCaribbean. Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 ships currently in service. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Click here to view the article

With a mix of sunshine, surf and sand, the Hawaiian Islands consistently rank among the world’s most popular vacation destinations. And Carnival Spirit’s Hawaii cruises provide guests with an unforgettable way to explore the Aloha State. Carnival kicks off its 2011 Hawaii program with two 12-day cruises next month. The April 10, 2011, voyage departs from Ensenada, Mexico and includes daylong visits to Hilo, Kona and Nawiliwili, along with overnight calls in Kahului and Honolulu that provide guests with time for an evening luau or extended adventures ashore. A similar 12-day cruise departs Honolulu April 22, 2011, and ends in Vancouver, British Columbia with the same ports of call but in reverse order. Carnival’s Hawaii itineraries offer an extensive menu of shore excursions that lets guests explore the islands from above and below. Helicopter rides reveal stunning views of active volcanoes and picturesque waterfalls, while those who prefer the water can participate in deep-sea fishing, kayaking, tubing, canoeing, snorkeling and much more. Guests wishing to keep their feet on the ground can opt for hiking, horseback riding or wine tastings. Several sea days on each cruise leave plenty of time to explore Carnival Spirit and check out all of the “Fun Ship” activities. Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy testing the Twister Waterslide, nine-hole mini-golf course and youth program, while grown-ups can visit a luxurious 14,500-square-foot spa, a two-level dance club, and casino. Carnival Spirit will also operate the line’s first-ever 15-day round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles Dec. 2-17, 2011, and from San Diego April 13-28, 2012. Carnival is currently accepting bookings for all of its Hawaii cruises. Click here to view the article

Rent a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle in a Cruise Port of Call Here's a trend that Harley-Davidson riders everywhere can get "onboard" with: on your next cruise, hop off the ship and onto a rental bike! If you are a fan of seeing "open road" on the back of a Harley Road King or Heritage Classic, there remain countless global frontiers out there to explore! Harley-Davidson® has established rental locations throughout the world to accommodate the growing cadre of international road warriors. (All rentals are late-model Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, serviced and maintained to strict company standards) Here are a few examples of the rental opportunities available to avid riders: Want to see the mountains of Switzerland? Start with a 13-day "Enchanting Rhine" river cruise from AMAWATERWAYS, comprised of a 7-night cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, 2 nights in Lucerne, and ending with a 2-night stay in Zürich. Jump off the ship, then motor along the Swiss Alps, courtesy of Harley-Davidson Zürich. Are you a history buff? A must-see city is Berlin. Rent a Harley from Classic Bike and visit the Alte National Gallery (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall Memorial. After touring the city, you can catch a 10-Night Elegant Elbe — Berlin to Prague river cruise with Viking River Cruises. Is Rome, up close and personal, your interest? Rent from Harley-Davidson Roma and the bike will navigate the narrow streets, allow you to park anywhere, and get to Appian Way a lot quicker than did Caesar's Roman Legions. When you're done exploring, embark on Princess Cruises' Star Princess for a 12-Night – Egypt & Aegean Roundtrip Rome cruise! While biking on a Harley offers terrific side-trip opportunities on any cruise, note that there are some things to keep in mind before you sign up for your rental. For most of Harley- Davisdson's® international rental locations, riders must: Be 21 years of age or older Have a valid heavyweight motorcycle operator's license Have a major credit card Must possess the skills and knowledge to operate a heavyweight motorcycle Riders should expect that their Harley-Davidson Authorized Rentals® will provide: Use of a Harley-Davidson country-approved helmet and rainsuit for a comfortable and enjoyable ride Short-term luggage storage 24-hour emergency roadside assistance (In addition, Supplemental Liability Insurance and Supplemental Personal Property & Personal Accident Insurance may be available. Availability, coverage and rates vary by location. Riders must speak directly with their rental locations for details.) Click here to view the article

New restaurant to be added - Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White P&O Cruises has announced that when Oriana is transformed into a ship exclusively for adults in November this year, the ship will feature a different select dining restaurant, Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White. Oriana will undergo a transformation which will see the addition of 27 new cabins, including balconies and singles, in place of the current children’s areas. Sorrento, a stylish new, light and airy Italian restaurant with ocean views and an outdoor dining area will be added, the Oasis Spa will be updated, and the deck 8 aft children’s pool will be replaced with a relaxing seating area complemented by the existing deck bar. Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White will debut on board Adonia in May and also be added to Arcadia during refurbishment in late 2011. Ocean Grill will serve dishes such as Marco’s classic crayfish cocktail, grilled lobster with triple cooked chips, and one of his signature desserts ‘Sherry Trifle Wally Ladd’ P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow, said: “All of these enhancements have been made following feedback from our passengers and we can’t wait for them to enjoy these changes on board. We’re delighted that with these changes Oriana will become even more elegant and very well suited to passengers seeking a sophisticated environment exclusively for adults. “Recent research has shown that passengers want an entirely different Select dining experience to that offered elsewhere on the ship and they also want a contemporary style. Marco Pierre White has proved to be a huge hit with our passengers so we have asked him to work his culinary magic on board Oriana, Arcadia and Adonia. “These ships offer longer itineraries and Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White will provide an evolving menu to offer a different choice of cuisine throughout the cruise.” Marco Pierre White said: “Dining is about the complete experience and this comprises the surroundings, the company, the service and of course the food. Each element is as important as the other and the Ocean Grill will offer these in equal measure.” The changes are reflected in the new P&O Cruises 2012 brochure so passengers can start to explore and book their next cruise holiday. The new programme which has significant savings for early bookers goes on sale on April 5. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Cruise Line announced its Northeast deployment schedule for the 2012/2013 fall and winter season which features two, large Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from New York offering a variety of itineraries. For the first time, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Pearl will sail from New York beginning in October 2012, offering a series of 21 seven-day Bahamas and Florida cruises, along with three 12-day Southern Caribbean voyages. Norwegian Gem, also accommodating 2,394 passengers, will continue to homeport in New York where she will offer a series of 24 nine-day Eastern Caribbean voyages and four 10-day cruises to Eastern Canada and Quebec. Rounding out the fall season from the Northeast, Norwegian Dawn will sail seven day cruises to Canada and New England from both Boston and Quebec for five weeks starting September 21, 2012. “With the arrival of Norwegian Pearl in New York, we will have two of our newer and larger Freestyle Cruising ships sailing from this very popular homeport,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian’s chief executive officer. “New Yorkers love Freestyle Cruising because it suits their needs. With two of our Jewel-class ships in New York, we are giving guests more choice and the opportunity to sail longer cruises to the Caribbean.” Norwegian Pearl will make her New York debut on October 14, 2012, sailing a seven-day itinerary that calls on Orlando & the Beaches (Port Canaveral); Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s private island) and Nassau, Bahamas. The three 12-day Southern Caribbean cruises, on January 6, January 20 and February 3, 2013, include stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados and St. John’s, Antigua; as well as five relaxing days at sea. Norwegian Pearl will also offer three opportunities to experience Freestyle Cruising on a two-day getaway sailing from New York on January 18, February 1 and February 15, 2013. Continuing to homeport in New York, the 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem will sail two newly extended itineraries to Eastern Canada and Quebec and the Eastern Caribbean. Norwegian Gem will begin her four 10-day sailings to Canada and Quebec on September 8, 2012; calling on Halifax, Nova Scotia; an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Sydney, Nova Scotia. From October 20, 2012 to April 18, 2013, Norwegian Gem’s nine-day itinerary to the Eastern Caribbean will stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Samana, Dominican Republic. Beginning on September 21, 2012, the 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will spend the fall season in Canada and New England. The ship will offer three seven-day sailings from Boston visiting Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspésie, Quebec; Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec and ending in Quebec City, Quebec. Norwegian Dawn will also offer two seven-day sailings from Quebec calling Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Sydney, Nova Scotia, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine. Guests can combine these itineraries into a 14-day cruise, with an option to embark from either Boston or Quebec. This will be the first time Norwegian Cruise Line will visit Gaspésie in Quebec. Click here to view the article

Crown Princess to Sail on Western Caribbean Itineraries from Texas For the first time since 2007, a Princess Cruises ship will again set sail from the port of Galveston, offering cruises to the sunny Western Caribbean. Crown Princess will offer 19 departures from Galveston between December 22, 2012 and April 27, 2013. The seven-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itinerary features ports of call at Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico. "We've received a great deal of feedback from cruisers interested in sailing from Galveston again," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "So we're excited to be returning in 2012 to bring our Western Caribbean sailings back to Texas." The 3,070-passenger Crown Princess offers greater capacity than Princess ships previously based in Galveston. The 113,000-ton vessel debuted in 2006 and offers the line's popular signature features, including a piazza-style atrium with International Cafe and Vines wine bar; the 300-square-foot Movies Under the Stars poolside theater; The Sanctuary, an adults-only "oasis of tranquility"; and a variety of dining, recreation and entertainment options. "Welcoming back Princess Cruises and hosting Crown Princess is a great addition to the Texas cruise market. We're excited that the return of Princess Cruises will offer our passengers additional options of cruise vacations sailing from Texas' premiere cruise port," said Steven M. Cernak, Galveston port director. The remainder of the Princess Cruises Caribbean schedule will be announced later this month. About Princess Cruises: One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess carries 1.3 million passengers each year to destinations around the globe ranging in length from seven to 107 days. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK). Princess Cruises is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises and Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World's Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations. Click here to view the article

New initiative allows guests immediate access to their stateroom upon embarkation Holland America Line has launched a new Stateroom Direct Service program that simplifies the boarding process by giving guests immediate access to their staterooms upon embarkation. Under the program, staterooms will be ready as early as 11:30 a.m., and cruisers will no longer have to check their carry-on bags and wait in public areas while their staterooms are being prepared. Additionally, arriving guests will receive their luggage earlier, allowing them more time to unpack and settle into their rooms. Guests also will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at their leisure in the line's Lido restaurant, which features a full-service buffet. "Holland America Line is always seeking new ways to enhance our on-board cruise experience, and through this streamlined boarding process guests can now get into their staterooms earlier and begin enjoying their vacation sooner," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Stateroom Direct Service creates the best start to a cruise for our guests and sets the precedent for top-notch service to follow." The early embarkation initiative is in place on all of the line's 15 vessels. As part of its on-going fleetwide Signature of Excellence enhancement program, Stateroom Direct Service adds to Holland America Line's long list of exclusive offerings that allow guests to maximize their premium cruise experience and start enjoying the on-board facilities and amenities as soon as they board the ships. About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)] Holland America Line's fleet of 15 ships offers more than 500 cruises to 354 ports in 98 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 110-day itineraries visit all seven continents and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, a commitment totaling more than $525 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine — a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes — Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, Digital Workshop powered by Windows, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds. World's Leading Cruise Lines Holland America Line is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World's Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations. Click here to view the article