Jan115

Princess has a new dining program “Dine My Way” linked to the Medallion. I like the concept. What do you think? https://www.princess.com/ships-and-experience/food-and-dining/dine-my-way/?fbclid=IwAR1jGfh5CXm2IunzGvWZrM5g45G_b-aL53MzNgYy48hZ1hrPy3kNRMPAcmg

It appears the restart of U.S. cruising is now on a bit clearer path. Late Wednesday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released more guidance for cruise ships undertaking simulated voyages with volunteer passengers as part of the COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate application. "With the issuance of these documents, cruise ship operators now have all the necessary requirements and recommendations they need to start simulated voyages before resuming restricted passenger voyages," the CDC said in a press release. The cruise lines can avoid those simulated voyages entirely if 98 percent of passengers and 95 percent of crew have received the full COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days prior to embarkation. And, for the first time, the CDC released its COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate application, which the agency called "the final step before cruises can restart as 'restricted passenger voyages.'" Initial Industry Reaction On Wednesday night, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) said it was reviewing the new details provided by the CDC, as did Carnival Corporation, the world's biggest cruise company. "The technical instructions issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on May 5 confirm that there is a lot of work to do in order to achieve the goal of sailing from U.S. ports this summer," a spokesperson for CLIA told Travel Agent. "We appreciate the CDC’s expressed commitment to this goal and look forward to further discussions on the details of the instruction, including a better understanding of how predominantly vaccinated passengers and crew can accelerate a return to service. Meanwhile, nearly half a million American jobs and livelihoods continue to hang in the balance. The cruise industry will continue to go above and beyond to meet the requirements of the CDC, building on the ongoing resumption of operations taking place in other parts of the world and the demonstrated success of the industry’s protocols and public health measures." Other travel industry sources told Travel Agent that the CDC action is a positive step, but some also point out that the cruise industry is still being treated differently than other sectors such as hospitality and airlines. "I am happy to see any progress, especially on National Travel Advisors Day, but at the same time, it’s complex and frankly still unbalanced versus the guidance the CDC has provided other businesses and even Americans in general," says Alex Sharpe, president and CEO of Signature Travel Network. "Lots of work still to do." CDC Background In Wednesday's press release, the CDC said it released the "Conditional Sail" Order (CSO) in October 2020 "to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 on cruise ships, from cruise ships into communities, and to protect public health and safety." The order introduced a phased approach for the resumption of passenger cruises to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19 onboard. But the order was seriously lacking in the type of detail the cruise industry said it needed to plan a restart. The latest guidance from the CDC provided technical instructions for simulated voyages, including: Eligibility and requirements for conducting a simulated (trial) voyage in preparation for restricted passenger voyages Guidance for inspections of cruise ships conducted by CDC during simulated and restricted passenger voyages Operational procedures to assist cruise ship operators in mitigating the risk of spreading COVID-19, including requirements and recommendations on prevention measures, surveillance for COVID-19 on board, laboratory testing, infection prevention and control, face mask use, social distancing, passenger interactive experiences, and embarkation and disembarkation procedures In the final phase of the CSO, cruise ships operators with an approved COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate application will be permitted to sail with passengers following the requirements of the CSO. The CDC said it doesn't anticipate releasing any additional documents for the next phase. Instead, it will update online documents to incorporate changes to quarantine, testing, color status and lessons learned from simulated voyages. The agency's press release also said it's "committed to working with the cruise industry and seaport partners to resume cruising following the phased approach outlined in the CSO. This goal aligns with the prospective resumption of passenger operations in the United States by mid-summer, expressed by many major cruise ship operators and travelers." Adding a bit of background: The CDC said that since April 12, 2021, it (as well as senior leadership from other federal agencies) had engaged in twice-weekly meetings with cruise line representatives for dialogue and the exchange of information. Addressing the vaccine issue, the CDC's press release said that "COVD-19 vaccines play a critical role in the safe resumption of passenger operations, but not all cruise ship operators have announced plans to mandate passenger vaccinations." But as more people are fully vaccinated and more drug therapeutics are available, the CDC said that a phased approach will allow incorporation of these advancements into planning for safe resumption of cruise ship travel. The CDC recommends that all port personnel and travelers (passengers and crew) get a COVID-19 vaccine when a vaccine is available to them. The CDC also acknowledged that "it is not possible for cruising to be a zero-risk activity for spread of COVID-19. While cruising will always pose some risk of COVID-19 transmission, CDC is committed to ensuring that cruise ship passenger operations are conducted in a way that protects crew members, passengers, and port personnel, particularly with emerging COVID-19 variants of concern." For the CDC's views of COVID-19 and cruise ships, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirusand www.cdc.gov/quarantine/cruise. __________________________ SOURCE: Travel Agent Central (Susan Young, May 5, 2021); Photo Credit: Pixabay Free Images Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

Now that the future is looking brighter for cruising, people will likely start venturing on board ships again. I am thinking optimistically and have five cruises in the pipeline scheduled through 2022, making up for lost time. I have added them to our Roll Call Forum. Feel free to add your cruises, as well. Someone here in the community could be on the same sailing, and you can discuss your plans and anticipate the excitement together! Cruise Roll Call Forum

Just booked this one, which will be our first time cruising from San Juan, and I love the itinerary! Anyone else?

Norwegian Cruise Line will not require passengers to book shore excursions through the ship when it resumes sailings this summer, a company executive said in an interview this week. "From our first voyage out of the gate, you are free to tour on your own in every port," Norwegian's chief sales officer, Katina Athanasiou, said on Travel Weekly'spodcast. "We anticipated needing to do this shore excursion bubble for the first month of operations. We've already lifted that, because in working with our ports and the authorities and each of the local governments, they now anticipate their vaccination increase to be enough that their local communities are going to be supported, and we no longer have to do a shore excursion bubble. So guests will be free to tour on their own." The news comes weeks after the cruise line announced it'll only allow vaccinated passengers and crew to board its ships. Norwegian, which has one of the strictest vaccination mandates of cruise linesresuming operations, plans to sail to the Greek islands in July, followed by trips from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. In September, Norwegian expects to set sail from Barcelona and Italy. The cruise line plans to require the jab for all passengers and crew for sailings through at least October 31. The concept of a cruise bubble with controlled shore excursions became popular in Europe last summer as some ships attempted to restart cruising safely. In August 2020, one family was even denied boarding an MSC Cruises ship after they separated from their group during an officially planned excursion. While several cruise lines are homeporting in countries around the world this summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said it is "committed" to resuming cruises in the United States by the summer. _______________________________ SOURCE: Travel and Leisure (Alison Fox, May 4, 2021); Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

Seattle, Wash., May 5, 2021 — Working in close coordination with the government of Greece, Holland America Line has received approval to restart cruising from Piraeus (Athens) in August with four departures aboard Eurodam. Bookings for these cruises will open May 6. Departing Aug. 15 and 29, the “Idyllic Greek Isles” itinerary features Kotor, Montenegro, plus the Greek isles of Kékira (Corfu), Thíra (Santorini) and Mykonos. “Ancient Wonders” departs Aug. 22 to explore Haifa, Israel, as well as Náfplion, Mykonos and Rhodes in Greece. Both options can be combined to form a longer, back-to-back 14-day Collectors’ Voyage. A seven-day “Adriatic Allure” itinerary departing Sept. 5 will sail from Piraeus to Venice, Italy, with calls at Mykonos, Katakolon (Olympia) and Crete (Chania), Greece, and Sarandë, Albania. Additional Mediterranean cruises aboard Eurodam through the fall will be announced in the coming weeks and include ports in Italy and Greece. Eurodam returns to the United States to begin sailing its published Caribbean cruises in mid-November. “Everyone at Holland America Line has been preparing for our return to service, and we are grateful to the government of Greece for allowing us to show that we can safely operate our cruises,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “The beautiful islands of Greece have been a highlight of our Mediterranean itineraries for decades, and we are honored to be able to restart out of Athens and give our guests a memorable vacation after all this time without cruise travel.” “The Greek Islands have been welcoming Holland America Line ships for many years, and we are proud to work together to welcome the cruise line back this summer,” said Harry Theoharis, Minister of Tourism of Greece. “We are sure that all visitors to Greece will once again have unique experiences to our beautiful destinations and fully enjoy the rich history, culture and gastronomy of our nation.'' On board, Holland America Line will continue to offer the amenities that are a hallmark of the brand. Dining will be available in all restaurants and specialty venues, as well as room service. Entertainment will be in full swing in the main show lounge, and live music will be featured in Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Rock Room. Port-to-Table culinary demonstrations, EXC Talks and more will bring Greece and its culture on board through engaging activities. To accommodate physical distancing, additional performances may be added to the schedule. Cruise and Stay Healthy with ‘Travel Well’ Protocols Holland America Line cruises from Greece are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination. Holland America Line guests will be required to comply with all health and safety protocols in place at the time of departure for travel to and from the ship, as well as all onboard protocols and procedures for visiting ports. Guests can find information about Greece traveler health requirements on the Visit Greece website. Additional preventive health measures under Holland America Line’s “Travel Well” program will be in place, including health screenings, face mask requirements, physical distancing and capacity controls. The ships now feature enhanced environmental sanitation and air filtration with upgraded HVAC systems and ultraviolet technology. HEPA filters will be used in key areas as a further safeguard. In addition, medical centers will be equipped with COVID-19 testing and treatment capabilities. Holland America Line’s protocols are subject to change as work continues in collaboration with medical experts and government bodies to ensure the practices evolve in line with the latest advice. Full details, including cruise fares and information on shore excursions, are being finalized and will be shared in the coming weeks at hollandamerica.com. Attractive airfares from several domestic and international gateways will be available through Holland America Line’s FlightEase program. Flexible cancellation terms, including our Covid-19 Protections, are offered through “Book with Confidence” when booked by June 30, 2021, for sailings through Dec. 31, 2021. The cruise line’s Cancellation Protection Plan also allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. To accommodate the new Greece sailings, guests sailing on Eurodam’s published Seattle roundtrip Alaska cruises will be moved to similar accommodations on sister ship Nieuw Amsterdam, which is scheduled to sail on the same departure dates. In addition, European cruises departing from July 1 through July 25 on Volendam and July 1 through Aug. 31 on Westerdam will be canceled. Guests who were booked on impacted cruises and their travel advisors are being notified. Fares for Eurodam's seven-day Greece cruises begin at a “Have it All” premium package fare of $1,999 per person that includes one shore excursion, a beverage package, specialty dining and Wi-Fi. Cruise-only fares start at $1,649 per person, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are additional. _________________________ SOURCE: Holland America (Press Release, May 5, 2021); Photo Credit: Holland America Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

You could be right, Andi, and in the case of guests perhaps they are discounting kids too young for vaccination but allowed to cruise with testing? Just a guess.

I wonder if we will see cruises out of Galveston before those out of Florida.

I totally agree, Andi. And where did the CDC get the 98% for crew and 95% guest mandatory vaccine percentages? Why not 100%?

I know, right? It was like a reunion of old friends and made me feel optimistic and hopeful for the future of cruising.😀

Florida Governor DeSantis signed a bill which prohibits businesses from asking for proof of vaccine from its patrons. Yet he is demanding that the CDC - which will require guests and crew to be vaccinated - should allow cruise ships to sail from Florida ASAP. What are your thoughts? https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2021/05/05/florida-governor-doesnt-think-cruise-lines-need-ability-require-vaccine-proof-passengers

Thanks for your help, Jason!

Following the popularity of the stunning red, white and blue livery adorning Mardi Gras, another Carnival Cruise Line ship will soon receive the dramatic hull design that will become a trademark feature across the fleet as Carnival, America’s Cruise Line, prepares to celebrate its 50th birthday in 2022. Carnival Magic will be the first ship to receive the new livery during its current dry dock in Marseilles, France. Paying homage to maritime tradition and patriotic colors, the eye-catching hull design is highlighted by a stately navy blue hull inspired by officers’ uniforms along with vibrant red and white accents running the entire length of the 1,004-foot-long ship. Additional vessels will receive the new livery as they undergo scheduled dry docks. Carnival Glory will be the second ship to receive the new hull design during a dry dock scheduled in June. “When we first saw the hull design for Mardi Gras, we knew it was something special and, particularly as we get ready to celebrate our 50th birthday, we’re delighted to incorporate this stunning livery as a signature exterior design element across our fleet,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “As we look to resume sailing in the U.S., we’re coming back with a signature new look as well!” In addition to the new livery, Carnival Magic will emerge from its dry dock on May 24 with an expanded casino with an even greater variety of slots and other games, as well as a host of enhancements including freshening up the finishes for the WaterWorks aqua park and pools. For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site. ___________________________ SOURCE: Carnival Cruise Line (Press Release, May 5, 2021); Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

In recognition and celebration of the countless teachers who have spent the last 15 months giving their all to students across the U.S. and Canada during these unprecedented times, Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the relaunch of its "Norwegian Giving Joy" contest, which provides educators with free cruises and a chance to win up to $25,000 for their schools. The Cruise Line is offering 100 Teachers a Chance at a free cruise and three grand prizes of $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000 for their schools. For more information or to nominate your favorite deserving educator, visit Norwegian Giving Joy Contest

MIAMI, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition and celebration of the countless teachers who have spent the last 15 months giving their all to students across the U.S. and Canada during these unprecedented times, Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the relaunch of its "Norwegian's Giving Joy" contest, which provides educators with free cruises and a chance to win up to $25,000 for their schools. Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: Norwegian Cruise Line is awarding 100 teachers across North America with free cruises as part of its “Norwegian’s Giving Joy” campaign, created to honor and celebrate educators for their commitment to inspiring students every day. From May 3 through June 4, 2021, NCL is encouraging the public to nominate and vote for a deserving teacher for a chance to win a free cruise and up to $25,000 for their schools. "Norwegian's Giving Joy" acknowledges the often-undervalued work of educators and highlights the intersection between travel and education. First launched with astounding success in 2019, with over 1.4 million votes for more than 46,000 teachers, and a total prize of over $100,000 for schools across North America, the contest heralds these selfless warriors. This year's campaign is especially significant given the elevated demands of this profession under pressure. "Now more than ever, educators deserve our gratitude and so much more for their perseverance and unwavering commitment to inspire students every day," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Travel is one of the most immersive means of education. It broadens our perspective, encourages us to discover, adapt and accept new cultures and experiences. With 'Norwegian's Giving Joy,' we are able to help shed light on these everyday heroes and raise their spirits by awarding them with a long-overdue vacation to help show them the world, as they've helped shape so many of ours." The month-long campaign runs from May 3 to June 4, 2021. The Cruise Line is asking for nominations of certified or accredited teachers in the U.S. and Canada who demonstrate a passion for bringing joy to the classroom, who relentlessly show up for their students – virtually or in person, – and who continue to motivate them every day. The top 100 educators with the most votes will win a seven-night cruise for two on voyages embarking from the U.S. and Canadathrough summer 2023. The Grand Prize winner will be awarded with a $25,000 donation for his or her school, while the second and third place winners will receive a $15,000 and $10,000 donation respectively for their schools. A virtual award ceremony will take place in August 2021. "We have all had a teacher that has impacted our lives and helped define who we are today," said Sommer. "It is our responsibility to rally behind these incredible individuals and show them how grateful we truly are. While we were unable to host 'Norwegian's Giving Joy' in 2020, we are making up for it this year by offering 100 teachers, more than ever before, with free cruises. We look forward to welcoming these educators on board our world-class fleet very, very soon." Nicole Conlisk, educator at One World Middle School in the Bronx, N.Y. and the 2019 "Giving Joy" Grand Prize Winner said, "Norwegian Cruise Line recognizing what we do on a daily basis and sharing stories of how we each impact and inspire our students has brought awareness to the work we do as educators." The donation made by NCL and its partners provided the students of One World Middle School access to hands-on experiences including STEM curricula focused on mechanical, electrical and chemical engineering, technology education and an introduction to ballroom dancing. Conlisk continued, "Through the support provided by NCL, we hope to continue the STEM program, while also expanding the educational opportunities with courses in architecture, criminal science, robotics, musical theater and other performing arts, in the next school year." To nominate a beloved teacher, to vote and for the contest terms and conditions, please visit www.nclgivingjoy.com. For more information about the Company's award-winning 17-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. ________________________________ SOURCE: PR Newswire and Norwegian Cruise Line (Press Release, May 3, 2021); Photo Credit: Pixabay Free Images Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

Two of Carnival Cruise Line’s Galveston-based ships – Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista – arrived at the Port of Galveston earlier today in anticipation of a cruise rally at the port on Monday to discuss the economic impact of the 14-month pause in operations. Carnival President Christine Duffy and Galveston Mayor Dr. Craig Brown will be among the speakers at the event that is hosted by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) which will be represented by FMC Commissioners Louis E. Sola and Carl W. Bentzel. Galveston port and community officials as well as local business leaders will be on hand as well. Carnival Cruise Line launched the first year-round cruise program from Galveston in 2000 and is the only cruise operator with three year-round ships based at the Port of Galveston, carrying roughly 750,000 guests annually. The Port of Galveston at the Galveston Wharves is the fourth most popular cruise homeport in North America and only cruise port in Texas. Galveston’s cruise business generates $1.6 billion in expenditures annually and 27,000 jobs statewide. _________________________ SOURCE: Carnival Cruise Line (Press Release, May 2, 2021); Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line Re-posted on CruiseCrazies.com - Cruise News, Articles, Forums, Packing List, Ship Tracker, and more For more cruise news and articles go to CruiseCrazies.com View full article

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