CruiseNews

Carnival Cruise Lines is excited to announce the FIRST ever Cooper River Bridge Run wedding in Marion Square- a FIRST for Charleston, a FIRST for the Run, and a FIRST for Carnival! Carnival Cruise Lines is inviting interested couples to submit an application for a chance to be the first to tie the knot or renew vows at Carnival’s “beach” in Marion Square, after racing to the altar in the 2011 Cooper River Bridge Run. Carnival Cruise Lines’ Race to the Altar fundraiser will benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital as part of a year-long partnership. Couples interested in winning a unique wedding experience and a honeymoon aboard Carnival Cruise Lines’ Fantasy can enter to win by February 18. To enter: Complete submission form available at www.bridgerun.com or email lmiller@rawlemurdy.com to request the form. Send in optional brief video description explaining: o Who you are as a couple o How you met o Why you would be perfect to win Submissions can be sent to: Rawle Murdy, Associates Attn: Carnival Race to the Altar Post Office Box 1117 Charleston, SC 29402 Email: lmiller@rawlemurdy.com Full rules available at www.bridgerun.com. On February 25, the winner will be announced as the FIRST couple to ever be married on the beach in Marion Square after running the Cooper River Bridge Run. In addition, the winning couple will receive: First dance on festival main stage in front of family, friends and 40,000 fellow runners Honeymoon in an ocean view stateroom on a five-day Bahamas cruise aboard Carnival Cruise Lines’ Fantasy Carnival Cruise Lines’ sponsorship of the Cooper River Bridge Run and the race to the altar fundraiser are part of Carnival’s year-long partnership with MUSC Children’s Hospital. Funds raised during the Bridge Run through participation of the Charleston public will be donated by Carnival to MUSC Children’s Hospital. The partnership includes several in-kind and monetary donations and fundraisers, as well as bringing smiles and fun to the patients of the MUSC Children’s Hospital with quarterly visits by Carnival Fantasy crew members. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Sun re-entered service after undergoing a multi-million dollar 12-day dry dock during which the 1,936-passenger ship received extensive renovations focused on enhancing the guest experience. The Freestyle Cruising ship received enhancements to its public areas, suites and restaurants. Following on the popularity of the Brazilian steakhouse that debuted on Norwegian Epic, the Moderno Churrascaria has been added as a new on-board restaurant. Guests can sample a variety of skewered meats presented by tableside passadors, as well as a salad bar. Additional updates and enhancements were made to some of the back-of-house areas of the ship to increase efficiencies. “We have a company-wide commitment to ensuring our ships are in excellent condition. Therefore, Norwegian Sun is the first of three ships this year that will enter dry dock for enhancements, along with several that will take place in 2012,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We will continue to enhance and refresh Freestyle Cruising for our guests and are pleased to now offer a new restaurant choice on Norwegian Sun.” Additional ships undergoing dry dock improvements this year are: Norwegian Dawn in May and Norwegian Spirit in September. Norwegian Sun’s refurbishment to guest areas includes: Updated décor in all 33 of the ship’s suites; Improvements to the Kids Crew area which offers complimentary children’s programs; The addition of Moderno Churrascaria, the line’s new and popular Brazilian steakhouse (in the space previously occupied by Pacific Heights); Overall replacement of carpets and wall coverings in public areas. In addition, back-of-house enhancements include: An energy conservation project focused on the ship’s HVAC system to save an estimated six million kilowatts per year (when complete in May 2011); Replacement of all potable water piping (continuing over the next 12-18 months); Propeller and rudder modifications to decrease power consumption by six percent; Removal and replacement of all lifeboat davit hooks with new state-of-the-art hooks to further ensure guest safety. Norwegian Sun sails alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, departing every Saturday through April 7, 2011. The ship’s seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise stops in Nassau, Bahamas; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten. On the seven-day Western Caribbean cruise, the ship will call in Cozumel, Mexico; Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala; Belize City, Belize and Key West, Florida. The two itineraries can be easily combined to create a port-rich 14-day Caribbean tour for guests looking for a longer cruise escape. Beginning May 8 2011, Norwegian Sun will spend her summer in Europe sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark, for the first time in the company’s history, embarking on 15 nine-day Baltic Capitals cruises. Ports of call include: Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; an overnight in St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm (Nynashamn), Sweden. Click here to view the article

With a dash of Disney magic and a surprising twist, a helicopter hoisted a 16-foot “champagne bottle” across the bow of the Disney Dream during a christening ceremony officially welcoming the newest ship to the Disney Cruise Line family. Serving the traditional role of godmother for the Disney Dream christening was Jennifer Hudson, the Academy Award and Grammy Award winner whose own dreams of stardom began when she was a performer on the Disney Wonder ship in 2003. Hudson was joined onstage by Disney CEO Bob Iger and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs, as the enormous “champagne bottle” filled with dreams of adventure, romance and fun was lifted into the air and broken across the bow of the 130,000-ton ship. Some 3,000 people were gathered at the Disney Dream for the christening ceremony including celebrities, media and members of the public. The spectacle befit a ship brimming with innovative “wows” – including gallery art that comes alive, the first water coaster aboard a cruise ship, Magical Portholes that provide inside staterooms with a real-time ocean view, a full-blown shipboard fireworks show, personal interaction with animated characters, play floors like gigantic video games, and original Broadway-style stage spectaculars. “For over a decade, Disney Cruise Line has been making vacation dreams come true for millions of families and we continue that tradition today with the launch of the Disney Dream,” Iger said. “The mix of imagination and innovation found on the Disney Dream is unparalleled and elevates the family cruise experience to new heights.” The 4,000-passenger Disney Dream sails its maiden voyage out of Port Canaveral, Fla., on Jan. 26. It joins the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, with the Disney Fantasy scheduled to join the fleet in 2012. “The addition of the Disney Dream provides an opportunity to extend our horizons and open up Disney cruising to more families,” Staggs said. “From the majestic beauty of Alaska, to the culture and history of Europe, to the fun and sun of the Caribbean, families looking to take a Disney cruise have more options than ever before.” In 2011, the Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night itineraries to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The Disney Magic will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries and seven-, 10- and 11-night European cruises out of Barcelona during the summer months. The Disney Wonder will sail seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles beginning Jan. 23 and seven-night Alaska itineraries from Vancouver, B.C., during the summer months. Click here to view the article

The 2011 Mediterranean cruise season in Naples is underway with Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas, the third and final ship in the Freedom-class (160,000 tons) and Royal Caribbean International's flagship for the Mediterranean. The ship arrived yesterday in the port of Naples. Following Independence of the Seas, other Royal Caribbean ships will call on the capital of Campania including Mariner of the Seas on April 4, Celebrity Solstice May 18, Celebrity Equinox May 26, Liberty of the Seas June 2, Silhouette Celebrity, Celebrity Cruises' new flagship recently opened, August 8, Voyager of the Seas October 25, Splendour of the Seas November 21. Campania is, however, the primary destination for the Royal Caribbean group with other strategic ports depending on itinerary. Royal Caribbean is sending 11 vessels to Italian ports for the 2011 season, for a total of 104 calls and a handle over 335,000 passengers. Independence of the Seas will call 6 times a year in Naples, for a total of approximately 26,220 passenger movements. Royal Caribbean's Director General for cruises in Italy is happy about Royal Caribbean's role in Italy, "For years, Naples has a strategic role in the planning of Royal Caribbean, and increasingly consolidated his lead role. Choosing the Campanian capital as the primary port is aligned perfectly with the European development project and especially the Italian company. As further proof of our happy synergy with the port of Naples also boast a partnership established in the management of Terminal Napoli, a sign of a common desire to work constructively with local institutions and key stakeholders. It 'just been to Naples to start this great policy terminals management and we are honored to have first shared this philosophy that we think of great success. " Click here to view the article

Norwegian Cruise Line is promoting its warm-weather cruises over Valentine’s Day. Making the celebration sweeter is the promotion offering up to a four-category upgrade, along with e-coupons in onboard savings of up to $400, to guests who book a cruise by March 27. NCL offers two romance packages. The Romance Package includes sparkling wine and strawberries in stateroom upon embarkation, a traditional spa pedicure and manicure for one, two 25-minute half-body Seven Seas Massages and tea service in stateroom. The price is $249 per stateroom. The Deluxe Romance Package includes sparkling wine and strawberries in stateroom upon embarkation, choice of Exotic Frangipani Body Nourishing Wrap or Exotic Coconut and Milk Ritual Wrap for one, two 25-minute half-body massages, tea service in stateroom, breakfast in bed, a keepsake portrait, and a romantic dinner for two with a complimentary bottle of wine in Le Bistro. The cost is $329 per stateroom. Click here to view the article

New campaign challenges the expected; playfully engages consumers Life and work have too many rules. A vacation - one of the most important decisions time-starved consumers make each year - should not. That philosophy has inspired top-rated premium brand Celebrity Cruises' new integrated, multi-channel campaign: "X the rules." "Our new campaign is grounded in deep consumer insights and the knowledge that vacation time is precious - and limited. We get that," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "At Celebrity, we constantly break away from the status quo and set new standards to deliver a vacation experience that is unequivocally unique and better." "We're leveraging our longtime icon - the high-visibility Celebrity 'X' - to creatively communicate that the 'X' is the mark of an unmatchable vacation experience - better than any other on land or at sea," said Celebrity's Vice President of Marketing Lisa Kauffman. Many cruise lines claim to offer beautiful accommodations, great dining experiences, and excellent service, but those attributes consistently earn Celebrity Cruises recognition as one of the top cruise lines in the world in coveted annual readers' surveys in the elite Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Celebrated Living, Frommer's Guide, x, Porthole, Recommend, TravelAge West and Travel Weekly, including the Travel Weekly "Globe Awards" (UK), which just last night honored Celebrity as "Best Premium Cruise Line." Those and ongoing press reviews year-over-year continuously recognize Celebrity for its hip style and design; widely varied, high quality culinary experiences; and personalized service with a guest-to-crew ratio of nearly 2:1 and 24/7 butler service in every luxurious suite. Celebrity's claim of offering a better, different and special vacation experience is further validated in its trendsetting onboard experience. While most vacation providers offer Internet cafes, only Celebrity offers the "Celebrity iLounge," complete with the opportunity to experiment with the latest Apple technologies and become immersed in new applications through "iLearn" courses. Many cruise lines offer enrichment programs, but only Celebrity offers vacationers the chance to learn a new language through Rosetta Stone, become immersed in the culture of the destinations with experts from Smithsonian Journeys, or taste the difference a glass makes in comparative wine tastings with Riedel Crystal. It's all part of Celebrity's commitment to maximizing vacationers' precious vacation time by offering an experience that is undeniably better, different and truly special. Kauffman says Celebrity also chose to "X the rules" in the creation and development of the new concept, opting to partner with boutique creative network Underhead versus a traditional agency. The new campaign will appear in a variety of online executions, consumer and trade magazines, outdoor, and in newspapers across the U.S. and Canada. Celebrity also is creatively engaging its rapidly growing fan base with the new campaign on its Facebook page. There, a number of the brand's new online banner ads will be revealed in a carousel, complete with Celebrity's "X the rules" philosophy. And, on January 25, Celebrity will launch on Facebook a captivating photo contest, where the brand's followers will be invited to share in postcard format how they "X the rules" in their own lives, in categories which have long been synonymous with Celebrity Cruises - luxury, exhilaration, and relaxation - or to select their own category in which they "X the rules." For those who expect Celebrity Cruises' executives to vote for the winner, Celebrity says, "X the rules." Instead, the line will invite Facebook followers to vote for several entrants who will receive prizes, with the grand prize winner to be determined in a competition among finalists for a European cruise for two with Celebrity Cruises. Naturally, the cruise experience will include a host of onboard experiences that will immerse the winner in how Celebrity delivers on its promise to "X the rules." Full details of the contest will be revealed on the brand's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/celebritycruises) January 25. Celebrity Cruises' iconic "X" is the mark of the world's top-rated premium cruise line, with spacious, stylish interiors; dining experiences elevated to an art form; personalized service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 2:1; unexpected, trendsetting onboard activities, all designed to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers' precious time. Celebrity sails to Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. One of the fastest-growing major cruise lines, Celebrity's fleet currently consists of 10 ships, with two additional Solstice Class ships scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Silhouette in July 2011, and Celebrity Reflection in Fall 2012. Click here to view the article

Most Inspiring Video or Essay Submissions Determined by Popular Vote Princess Cruises is launching a Facebook contest inviting its fans to share their most essential travel experience for a chance to check another place off their travel bucket list. The contest winner, to be determined by popular vote, will receive their choice of eight remarkable cruise destinations -- Europe, Asia, Tahiti, Australia/New Zealand, the Holy Land, Panama Canal, Alaska or South America. The cruise vacation choices range from 10 to 16 days in length in a balcony stateroom, and include roundtrip airfare for two people. Travelers can submit their compelling tales through the special contest tab on the line's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/PrincessCruises) either as a written story or video. The public will then have the opportunity to vote on the experience that inspires them the most, and the eligible entrant with the highest number of votes will win their dream cruise vacation. "We're encouraging our Facebook fans to share an inspiring travel experience they think everyone should do at least once in their lifetime," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "And the unprecedented aspect of this contest is that the winner gets to choose from among eight incredible cruise destinations, and cross yet another experience off their travel bucket list." There are two ways to enter the Princess Cruises Travel Bucket List Contest -- with a written story up to 300 words and up to five photos, or with a video up to two minutes in length. Entries can be submitted any time until February 7, 2011. Fans can vote for the story that inspires them most between February 11-25, 2011 and the winner will be announced on or around March 11, 2011. The contest is inspired by Princess' popular blog, 50 Essential Experiences, which chronicles bucket list travel experiences from the company's most-traveled employees. The blog, which has attracted over half a million page views since it launched in October, has motivated many travelers to think about their own travel bucket lists and plan essential travel experiences. "We know our passengers are passionate about travel, so we're looking forward to reading some wonderful stories," said Swartz. The eligible top vote-getter will receive his or her choice of one of the following eight cruise itineraries: 13-day New Zealand Sydney, Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch (Lyttelton), Dunedin (Port Chalmers), Fiordland National Park Scenic Cruising, Sydney 12-day Holy Land Rome (Civitavecchia), Sorrento (for Capri & Pompeii), Patmos, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Galilee/Nazareth (Haifa), Jerusalem (Ashdod), Port Said (for Giza/Cairo), Alexandria, Santorini, Athens (Piraeus) 16-day Southeast Asia & China Beijing (Tianjin), Busan, Nagasaki, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Singapore 12-day Grand Mediterranean Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples (for Capri & Pompeii), Mykonos, Istanbul, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Athens (Piraeus), Venice (Overnight) 14-day Panama Canal Ft. Lauderdale, Aruba, Cartagena, Full transit of the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador, Costa Rica (Puntarenas), Los Angeles 12-night Alaska Connoisseur Deluxe Escorted Cruisetour Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Whittier/Denali, Denali, Denali/Mt. McKinley, Mt. McKinley, Anchorage/Mt. McKinley, Anchorage 10-day Tahiti & Polynesia Tahiti (Papeete), Huahine, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora (Overnight), Moorea, Tahiti (Papeete) 14-day Cape Horn Route to Rio Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Falkland Islands (Stanley), Cape Horn scenic cruising, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Punta Arenas (Strait of Magellan), Chilean Fjords scenic cruising, Santiago (Valparaiso) The Princess Travel Bucket List contest is open to all residents of the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada (excluding Quebec), the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, aged 21 years or older. 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

The sky's the limit when it comes to outdoor fun and fitness at the innovative SportSquare to be featured on Carnival Cruise Lines' newest vessel, Carnival Magic, when it sets sail May 1. The line's most expansive outdoor recreation area by far, SportSquare on Carnival Magic (www.carnivalmagic.com) is an active cruiser's on-board paradise, featuring SkyCourse, the first ropes course at sea, and cruising's first-ever outdoor fitness area. Guests can also get in the swing of things with the line's first-ever two-level nine-hole miniature golf course, which the company is encouraging fans to help name at www.carnivalmagic.com/contest. Sure to be a talked about feature will be SkyCourse, the first-of-its-kind ropes course located on Spa & Sports Deck 12. The spectacular new attraction will offer fun and adventure for all, along with magnificent views of the sea nearly 150 feet below. On SkyCourse, thrill-seeking guests can strap into a safety harness and choose from a beginner or intermediate course, traversing across rope bridges, swinging steps and beams suspended above the top deck. Approximately 20 guests at a time can zig and zag along the two 230-foot courses, while friends and family can join in the fun by cheering participants on from the deck. Each of the 20 different elements on the ropes course is named after a notable bridge in the U.S. "We're literally taking fun and fitness to a new level with SportSquare. Whether you're climbing our amazing new ropes course at sea, doing some fresh-air cardio or just taking it all in, there's something fun for everyone to enjoy, day or night," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival's president and CEO. Guests can get pumped up at Sky Fitness featuring a wide array of exercise equipment, stationary bicycles, elliptical and rowing machines, punching bags and more. For a run in the sun and fresh sea air, Sports Track offers an 800-foot-long jogging path that surrounds the entire area. When guests are ready to get their game on, they'll find lighted multi-purpose space for basketball, volleyball and soccer, along with a six-station Vita exercise course and ping pong and foosball tables at Sports Court. And for those who just want to relax and check out the sports action in the area or on TV, SportSquare also features a full bar with a large flat-screen display. Have a Ball and Name Magic's Miniature Golf Course As part of its Make The Magic Yours campaign, Carnival is continuing to give fans the opportunity to add their personal touches to its newest and most innovative "Fun Ship." Winning fans have already created witty coaster sayings for the line's first Caribbean-themed pub at sea, named a delicious dish for its family-style Italian restaurant, and the giant water dump bucket that will provide a splashing good time for kids and adults alike. Today, the company is challenging fun-atics to name SportSquare's two-level, mini golf course. Through, January 24, 2011, fans ages 13 and older can submit their suggested name at www.carnivalmagic.com/contest for a chance to have their winning entry forever "linked" to the nine-hole course, along with a prize package which includes a digital camera and Carnival-branded golf paraphernalia. Entries must be no more than 50 characters and Carnival ship-worthy, as they'll be judged by the company based on relevance, creativity and originality then culled down to five finalists. In late January, Carnival will invite fun seekers to vote for their favorite name to choose one lucky winner who will be announced in mid-February. Additional information and contest rules are available at www.carnivalmagic.com/contest. In addition to serving as a clever way to name Carnival Magic's mini-golf course, the contest will raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, with Carnival donating $1 for each entry and vote, as well as for each Facebook fan who "likes" the contest. SportSquare, along with Carnival Magic's many other unique innovations, are highlighted in an interactive micro site, www.carnivalmagic.com, which features a full-screen virtual tour, exclusive images and videos, construction footage and more. The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic is slated to debut in Europe with a series of seven- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1 – Oct. 16, 2011. Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Magic will launch seven-day Caribbean service from Galveston, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011, becoming the port's largest year-round cruise ship. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that the popular Slam Allen Band will return to Norwegian Epic as the official Fat Cats house blues band, starting January 15, 2011. Slam Allen first appeared on Norwegian Epic during the ship's inaugural launch in June, 2010 and performed on the ship through September. With Slam at the helm, the band quickly developed an incredible rapport with guests and other entertainers on board. "Slam became an instant hit during the launch of Norwegian Epic as his soulful music combined with his playful and inviting personality really resonated with our guests," said Richard Kilman, director of entertainment programming and development for Norwegian Cruise Line. "It's a coup for us to have him return to the ship and serve as the official house band of Fat Cats." For more than 20 years, Slam Allen, originally from New Jersey, has been entertaining audiences around the world with his unique blend of soul and blues. For the past eight years, he has played an important role, as the lead singer and guitarist, in the legendary James Cotton Band. Music is in Allen's blood -- he got his start from his father and uncles who were known as the Allen Brothers Band. On Norwegian Epic, Allen plays a wide range of songs from B.B. King and Otis Redding to his own original music in the intimate 170-seat Fat Cats lounge six nights a week. "When I play, people who may have never heard of me leave the show feeling like we're old friends," Allen said. "Playing on Norwegian Epic is a great way to develop relationships with people since they are there for an entire week and many come back every night." Slam Allen will be playing in Fat Cats for the next six months. When he leaves for his month vacation in July, Allen will personally select his stand-in. Watch him in action in "An Epic Moment in Entertainment: Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club" on Norwegian's YouTube channel. 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 has reached an agreement for two 143,000-gross ton vessels for delivery in 2013 and 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

Future-forward restaurant is new addition in ship's expanded revitalization The rules say you shouldn't play with your food. But it's quite the contrary in "Qsine," the novel restaurant introduced on Celebrity Cruises' stylish Celebrity Eclipse last year. The award-winning venue – the first at sea to present its menu and wine list on an iPad™ – has met with such phenomenal response that Celebrity plans to add it to Celebrity Infinity during the ship's revitalization, designed to complement the already award-winning Millennium Class ships' style and design with some of the most popular venues on the line's widely heralded Solstice Class ships. "Qsine is designed to bring out our guests' 'inner foodie' through a uniquely unordinary approach, elevating the dining experience to a performance art," said Celebrity's Vice President of Culinary Operations Jacques Van Staden. "We've been absolutely thrilled with the response to Qsine from our guests on Celebrity Eclipse, and look forward to offering the same engaging experience when Celebrity Infinity presents the venue later this year." Van Staden says the only serious thing in Qsine is the food, such as a vertical selection of savory tapas and mezze served individually in custom-made frames, a trio of chilled soups delivered shot-style, and spring rolls served in springs, all of which are described in detail on the iPad-housed menu and wine list, which offers a full scan of wine labels, an interactive cocktail menu, and the ability for guests to enter tasting notes and e-mail their favorite wine selections. The first in the Millennium Class series to be revitalized was Celebrity Constellation in April 2010. Rave reviews from guests sailing on the "new" vessel led the brand to expand the process further on Celebrity Infinity, which will emerge from drydock December 3, 2011, with Qsine housed in the space where Tuscan Grille delights guests on Celebrity Constellation. Joining Qsine in the expanded revitalization of Celebrity Infinity will be: AquaClass accommodations – marking a Millennium-Class 'first' – allowing guests on Celebrity Infinity to experience the brand's popular spa-inspired accommodations and amenities the chic, Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, "Blu," offered exclusively for AquaClass guests the hip Celebrity iLounge, which debuted on Celebrity Eclipse and made Celebrity Cruises the industry's first Authorized Apple Reseller, and where guests can participate in Celebrity's "iLearn" enrichment series more private luxury havens with entirely new verandas added to the ship's spacious, sumptuous Celebrity Suites additional new oceanview and inside staterooms an expanded collection of original, contemporary art As on Celebrity Constellation, the following venues also will be incorporated on Celebrity Infinity during the ship's scheduled drydock period: a "cool" new ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush the vibrant creperie, Bistro on Five the inviting Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria Cellarmasters wine bar, complete with the "Enomatic" state-of-the-art wine serving system – an industry-first when it debuted on Celebrity Solstice – allowing guests to select wines by the glass, at the touch of a button more sumptuous suites, with all new furniture, flat-screen TVs, upholstery, bedding and carpeting restyled staterooms, with entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding new color schemes, carpeting and upholstery reflective of the Solstice Class' stylish, modern design in every public venue "Everything we've introduced on our award-winning Solstice Class fleet, and everything we're adding to our popular Millennium Class ships, has been created to enhance that all-important feeling of getting away," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "All of our new venues and onboard experiences – paired with the spectacular service of our dedicated crew – are designed to ensure our guests can make the most of their precious vacation time." Celebrity currently plans to similarly refurbish Celebrity Summit in January 2012, followed by Celebrity Millennium in April 2012. The already-revitalized Celebrity Constellation will be further refitted with the additional offerings in April 2013. Celebrity Cruises is designed for discerning vacationers, with modern, sophisticated environments, impeccable service, enriching and inspiring onboard programs, and award-winning cuisine. The ultimate in premium cruising, Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. Celebrity's mega-series of honors include being named the top mega-ship line in Conde Nast Traveler's annual Readers' Choice Awards (November 2009). Celebrity's fleet currently consists of 10 ships. Its $3.7-billion investment in building five stylish Solstice Class ships between 2008-2012 represents the largest five-year investment in premium cruising. Click here to view the article

Royal Caribbean International is launching a series of experiential beverage programs through a partnership with renowned French winemaker Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). The program debuted in December aboard the new Allure of the Seas and will be deployed fleet-wide by the end of the first quarter 2011. The hour-long Lafite Wine Experience features a tasting of four wines from the winemaker's Reserve Speciale series and is available for $29 per person. Led by a Royal Caribbean cellar master, the Lafite Wine Experience aims to expand guests' understanding of several of the growing regions in Bordeaux and how its soil cultivates the grapes and elevates the wines' bouquet. Along the way, guests will learn about food pairings and have an option to purchase a two-bottle gift set to take home in addition to the information kit they will receive during the program. Although the Chateau Lafite first growth wine is not part of the tasting during this 'wine tour' of Bordeaux, participants will sample Reserve Speciale Bordeaux Blanc and Rouge, progressing to Reserve Speciale Medoc and culminating in Reserve Speciale Pauillac. The program can be booked onboard or in advance through www.royalcaribbean.com/precruiseplanner. Click here to view the article

With Carnival Magic's inaugural European season right around the corner Carnival is holding a Europe Sale, offering best available upgrades and on-board credits up to $300 per stateroom, for bookings made between Jan. 10- 30th , 2011. Carnival Magic's European schedule encompasses seven-, nine- and 12-day Mediterranean voyages May 1 through October 16, 2011. The best available upgrade offer applies to new individual bookings for stateroom categories 4A and higher. Upgrades are available within specific stateroom accommodation types (interior to interior, ocean view to ocean view, balcony to balcony). The promotion also includes a $200 onboard credit per stateroom for seven-day Europe sailings, $250 onboard credit per stateroom for nine-day sailings, and $300 onboard credit per stateroom for 12-day sailings. The upgrade and onboard credit promotion is available in conjunction with the line's Fun Select rates, which allow guests to select the stateroom of their choice based on deck, location and accommodation category. The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic is set to debut in Europe on May 1, 2011. The ship will offer a variety of unique features — including the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub offering its own private label beer, the Cucina del Capitano Italian specialty restaurant, serving up family-style Italian fare, and the SportSquare outdoor recreation complex, featuring cruising's first outdoor ropes course — all designed for an unforgettable "Fun Ship" experience. Following its inaugural European season, the ship will then sail on a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing followed by the launch of seven-day Caribbean service from Galveston, Texas, November 14, 2011, becoming the port's largest year-round cruise ship. Click here to view the article

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that the next installment of Legends in Concert tribute artists will make their debut on Norwegian Epic on Saturday, January 22, 2011. The three Legends represent some of the world's most famous entertainers Janet Jackson, Neil Diamond and Aretha Franklin. A staple on the Las Vegas' center strip for over 25 years, Legends in Concert is known as the pioneer of live tribute shows and has assembled the greatest collection of live tribute artists and celebrity look-alikes in show business. "The Legends in Concert shows in the Epic Theater and Legends Unplugged in the Manhattan Room are a favorite of our guests," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line's chief executive officer. "With the third round of legendary entertainers, we are continuing to keep the entertainment fresh and exciting. Neil Diamond also happens to be one of my personal favorites and I am looking forward to seeing Aretha and Janet perform." Karin Lawson, a native of Denver, Colorado, portrays Janet Jackson. While performing as an ensemble member of "Legends in Concert," Karin began perfecting her tribute to Janet Jackson, a performer Lawson has long respected and admired. Her perseverance paid off when, at the end of 2001, Karin was given an opportunity to debut her character for Legends in Concert at Universal Studios in Japan. Lawson has since spent the last nine years performing as Jackson around the world. As a singer, songwriter and entertainer, William Paul has always been drawn to Neil Diamond and his legacy of worldwide hits. Impersonating the seventies and eighties era of Diamond, Paul performs classic hits like "Sweet Caroline" and "Love on the Rocks," reenacting Diamond's charming personality, singing tone and dance moves perfectly. Originally from Australia, Paul also plays in his own band performing at various venues in Australia. He is also known for writing an internationally acclaimed song for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. DeNita Asberry has impersonated one of her favorite divas, Aretha Franklin, from an early age. Asberry is an internationally recognized entertainer who has performed with The Righteous Brothers, Wayne Newton, George Hamilton, and David Cassidy, among many others. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Asberry has been performing with Legends in Concert for nine years. Legends in Concert is a live musical celebration featuring the world's greatest celebrity tribute artists. Legends in Concert on Norwegian Epic features three celebrity tribute performers taking the stage in the Epic Theater for six 45-minute shows over three days during a seven-day cruise. In addition, a Legends "Unplugged" show is performed on three additional nights in the Manhattan Room, the ship's New York-inspired supper club, providing an unprecedented dining and entertainment experience. The celebrity performers change every four months, keeping the show fresh and exciting. The last round of performers included Britney Spears, Rod Stewart and Michael Jackson. Legends in Concert Internationally acclaimed Legends in Concert is known as the pioneer of live celebrity impersonator shows and possesses the greatest collection of celebrity impersonators ever assembled. Featuring live concert shows of famous musicians and celebrities of yesterday and today with concert venues in Myrtle Beach, Branson, Las Vegas, Seattle, Atlantic City, Foxwoods Resort Casino and Coushatta Casino. The live impersonator show with music legends such as Elvis Presley, The Blues Brothers, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, Cher, Madonna, Michael Jackson and many more celebrities that appeal to music fans of all ages, makes Legends in Concert a must see live concert show. With an always-evolving cast of legendary superstars with original choreography and extravagant costumes, Legends in Concert is the original and largest live celebrity tribute show in the world. 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 has reached an agreement for two 143,000-gross ton vessels for delivery in 2013 and 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