Whether you are a cruise newbie or a cruise columnist, you can get genuinely excited when you see new markets, something unique added to traditional cruises, or new ships that are offering more amenities.
If you go to www.sailwx.info and connect on ship tracker, you will be able to find where most cruise ships in the world are on any given day. You will not find a lot in the Atlantic or the Pacific.
Look at each ship's onboard webcam at www.krooozecams.com and you can see where they are at that very moment. Those locations will change come September through November when they make their way back to North America.
With that comes good news - the traditional transatlantic cruises are undergoing changes.
Most of these dashes across the ocean are still available for those who are on a tight budgets - be it money or time. Many are offering pricing you won't find anywhere else.
The change means the addition of more interesting ports and a new mix of countries from northern to southern Europe. The lack of availability on some ships is heralding the success of these itinerary changes.
One line, Holland America, is using its 1,200-passenger Maasdam to sail both southerly and northerly transatlantic return routes.
The Maasdam sailed on a return trip from Boston earlier this year to Iceland and then onto other European ports (a planned stop in Greenland was cancelled due to heavy seas). In October, it will make a return trip from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., with stops in Morocco, Spain, the Canary Islands, Italy, Portugal and Gibraltar - including several overnights - before arriving back in Fort Lauderdale 42 days later.
Norwegian Cruise Lines has also started longer, more interesting crossings with the Norwegian Sun. It's merging two cruises, leaving Copenhagen for Miami on a 28-day trip that takes in Iceland, Norway, Scotland, Greenland, Ireland and Portugal before crossing the ocean to Miami through Funchal and Madeira.
When ships on transatlantic cruises leave from London (Southampton), Rome (Civitavecchia), Venice, Barcelona and other major European centres, it gives the keen cruiser an opportunity to visit some of the world's great cities before crossing the ocean.
Rome is the departure port for the Crown Princess in November, when it will make a 32-day journey that encompasses Mediterranean history. Ports include Naples, where you can visit Capri and Pompeii, five in Greece, including Santorini, plus Florence, Barcelona and Lisbon before crossing the ocean for the final destination, Galveston, Texas.
If price is your deal-maker, here are two transatlantic cruises you'll like:
- Copenhagen to Miami on the Norwegian Sun: 14 days for only $499, or about $35 a day
- Southampton to Miami on the premium ship Celebrity Constellation: 15 days and three ports: Paris (Le Havre), Lisbon and Tenerife (Canary Islands) starting at $599, or about $40 a day
For one cruise line, Holland America, the transatlantic is becoming a destination with return trips that eliminate the high cost of air travel and hotel travel.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Showing posts with label Cruise Destinations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cruise Destinations. Show all posts
Monday, 13 August 2012
Friday, 10 August 2012
Alaskan waters - Spectacular Glaciers
Far from being stationary objects, Alaska's glacial formations are active and powerful. Winding down from mountains and fjords, these massive rivers of ice are often on the move, some dropping enormous chunks into the sea, a process known as calving. A cruise journey allows you to get up close to these behemoths of nature and see the incredible spectacle of ice towers crashing into the ocean.
Alaska has more than 100,000 glaciers, about half of the world's total. An Inside Passage journey will show you some of the biggest and best, like Hubbard Glacier, which at 122km in length is the longest ocean facing glacier in Alaska. Glacier Bay National Park, spanning 1.3 million hectares, is a stunning network of inlets that channel the frozen tide towards the sea. College Fjord is home to 16 ocean facing glaciers while Tracey Arm Fjord is awe-inspiring with its snow-capped mountains and steep granite walls.
The Alaskan authorities, for the sake of conservation and limiting overcrowding, imposes certain restrictions on cruise lines when it comes to visiting both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay.
CAPTIVATING WILDLIFE
Forget about boring stretches of ocean where the most action you'll see in the water is the white crest of a small wave - the Inside Passage is buzzing with life. Humpback whales make something of a splash when they're around and during the summer months more than 2000 of these gargantuan sea creatures are known to frequent Alaskan waters. Orcas and beluga whales are just as abundant in Alaskan waters, as are dolphins, who like to show off their acrobatic tricks near ships.
Seals, sea lions and otters congregate on chunks of ice or frolic, while the salmon-rich waters are welcomed by brown bears, who enjoy them as a tasty snack. Flocks of seabirds make for some great bird-watching too, with the star of the show being the majestic bald eagle.
AMAZING ADVENTURES
As well as top-notch wildlife viewing, cruising in Alaska also serves up a range of action-packed adventures off the ship. Take a sightseeing tour over the magnificent terrain in a helicopter or small plane - clients can even get the chance to stand on the surface of a glacier. Or fly even further north of Alaska to check out the Arctic Circle.
Go hiking in the wilderness with a ranger or on a self-guided trip in one of the national parks, such as Denali National Park. Embark on a driving adventure with a guide and journey through the diverse terrain in search of wildlife, or take the reins on the ground with a spot of dog-sledding. Make a splash with a few hours of white water rafting or a jet boat ride through the glacier-fed rivers. And for something a little more sedate, throw a line in the river and see if you can hook yourself a plump salmon.
Of course, there are also the country's charming port towns to discover, like the tiny state capital Juneau, and the towns of Skagway, Ketchikan and Sitka with their Alaskan gold rush ambience.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Alaska has more than 100,000 glaciers, about half of the world's total. An Inside Passage journey will show you some of the biggest and best, like Hubbard Glacier, which at 122km in length is the longest ocean facing glacier in Alaska. Glacier Bay National Park, spanning 1.3 million hectares, is a stunning network of inlets that channel the frozen tide towards the sea. College Fjord is home to 16 ocean facing glaciers while Tracey Arm Fjord is awe-inspiring with its snow-capped mountains and steep granite walls.
The Alaskan authorities, for the sake of conservation and limiting overcrowding, imposes certain restrictions on cruise lines when it comes to visiting both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay.
CAPTIVATING WILDLIFE
Forget about boring stretches of ocean where the most action you'll see in the water is the white crest of a small wave - the Inside Passage is buzzing with life. Humpback whales make something of a splash when they're around and during the summer months more than 2000 of these gargantuan sea creatures are known to frequent Alaskan waters. Orcas and beluga whales are just as abundant in Alaskan waters, as are dolphins, who like to show off their acrobatic tricks near ships.
Seals, sea lions and otters congregate on chunks of ice or frolic, while the salmon-rich waters are welcomed by brown bears, who enjoy them as a tasty snack. Flocks of seabirds make for some great bird-watching too, with the star of the show being the majestic bald eagle.
AMAZING ADVENTURES
As well as top-notch wildlife viewing, cruising in Alaska also serves up a range of action-packed adventures off the ship. Take a sightseeing tour over the magnificent terrain in a helicopter or small plane - clients can even get the chance to stand on the surface of a glacier. Or fly even further north of Alaska to check out the Arctic Circle.
Go hiking in the wilderness with a ranger or on a self-guided trip in one of the national parks, such as Denali National Park. Embark on a driving adventure with a guide and journey through the diverse terrain in search of wildlife, or take the reins on the ground with a spot of dog-sledding. Make a splash with a few hours of white water rafting or a jet boat ride through the glacier-fed rivers. And for something a little more sedate, throw a line in the river and see if you can hook yourself a plump salmon.
Of course, there are also the country's charming port towns to discover, like the tiny state capital Juneau, and the towns of Skagway, Ketchikan and Sitka with their Alaskan gold rush ambience.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 8 August 2012
Stag and Hens opting for Celebratory Cruises
As part of ongoing research into the holiday habits of Britons, an independent online cruise travel agent has conducted a study of over 1,100 married men and women in a bid to discover what they did to celebrate their stag or hen party; with just under one in ten, 9%, claiming that they celebrated theirs with a cruise.
An independent online cruise travel agent has conducted a study to discover more about the most popular destinations when it comes to holding a stag/hen party. The research was conducted in a bid to discover more about the holiday habits of Britons, specifically in relation to stag and hen parties with the wedding season upon us.
The research, conducted by www.Bonvoyage.co.uk, asked 1,171 married men and women across the UK what they did to celebrate their stag/hen party before getting married, with all respondents having been married in the past 5 years.
According to the study, the majority, 34%, stated that they went to a ‘city in the UK’ to celebrate their stag/hen party. When asked where in the UK they travelled, ‘Brighton’ was the most common destination for 23%, shortly followed by Edinburgh with 18%.
In contrast, just under one in ten, 9%, of those taking part claimed that they celebrated their stag or hen party with a cruise. When asked why they had opted for a cruise, the majority, 61%, of those taking part explained that they felt a cruise was ‘more interesting’ than other stag/ hen options, whilst a fifth, 22%, believed that the cruise was ‘better value for money.’
Of those who had gone on a cruise for their stag/ hen, a ‘Mediterranean cruise’ was the most popular option; with over a third, 35%, of the stag/ hen cruisers having opted for this type of cruise.
A further 26% of these respondents had opted for a ‘mini cruise’ that lasted three days; whilst 14%, had opted for a Northern Europe cruise, whilst 12% had chosen one around the Caribbean.
Of the total respondents to the study, 27% stated that they celebrated their stag/hen party at the ‘local pubs and bars’ in their hometown; whilst 17% of the respondents enjoyed their stag/hen party ‘abroad’, with ‘Spain’ being the most popular destination of choice.
When asked what had been the most important factor when deciding how to celebrate their stag or hen party, the majority of those taking part, 52%, claimed that ‘having fun’ was the main deciding factor. In contrast, just under a quarter, 24%, claimed that ‘money/ budget’ decided how they celebrated, whilst 12% claimed that they had ‘no choice’ in how to celebrate as it was ‘organised for them.’
Steph Curtin, Cruise Development Manager of bonvoyage.co.uk, spoke about the findings:
“One of our aims here at bonvoyage.co.uk is to inform people about all the types of cruise holidays on offer, and try to banish the stereotype that some people may have about cruising. There is a perfect cruise out there for every occasion, weather it is a family fun packed holiday, a romantic honeymoon or even an adventurous stag/hen party; and it seems that more and more are cottoning on to cruises as a unique way to celebrate before they marry.”
She continued:
“It was interesting to see that those who picked a cruise for their stag or hen did so as a more ‘interesting’ option than other destinations. They are certainly a great way to visit a range of destinations- and with most offering food and drink packages in with the price, can be an affordable option on a budget. Why just go to Amsterdam when you can visit a whole host of wild European cities on a cruise in one week!”
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
An independent online cruise travel agent has conducted a study to discover more about the most popular destinations when it comes to holding a stag/hen party. The research was conducted in a bid to discover more about the holiday habits of Britons, specifically in relation to stag and hen parties with the wedding season upon us.
The research, conducted by www.Bonvoyage.co.uk, asked 1,171 married men and women across the UK what they did to celebrate their stag/hen party before getting married, with all respondents having been married in the past 5 years.
According to the study, the majority, 34%, stated that they went to a ‘city in the UK’ to celebrate their stag/hen party. When asked where in the UK they travelled, ‘Brighton’ was the most common destination for 23%, shortly followed by Edinburgh with 18%.
In contrast, just under one in ten, 9%, of those taking part claimed that they celebrated their stag or hen party with a cruise. When asked why they had opted for a cruise, the majority, 61%, of those taking part explained that they felt a cruise was ‘more interesting’ than other stag/ hen options, whilst a fifth, 22%, believed that the cruise was ‘better value for money.’
Of those who had gone on a cruise for their stag/ hen, a ‘Mediterranean cruise’ was the most popular option; with over a third, 35%, of the stag/ hen cruisers having opted for this type of cruise.
A further 26% of these respondents had opted for a ‘mini cruise’ that lasted three days; whilst 14%, had opted for a Northern Europe cruise, whilst 12% had chosen one around the Caribbean.
Of the total respondents to the study, 27% stated that they celebrated their stag/hen party at the ‘local pubs and bars’ in their hometown; whilst 17% of the respondents enjoyed their stag/hen party ‘abroad’, with ‘Spain’ being the most popular destination of choice.
When asked what had been the most important factor when deciding how to celebrate their stag or hen party, the majority of those taking part, 52%, claimed that ‘having fun’ was the main deciding factor. In contrast, just under a quarter, 24%, claimed that ‘money/ budget’ decided how they celebrated, whilst 12% claimed that they had ‘no choice’ in how to celebrate as it was ‘organised for them.’
Steph Curtin, Cruise Development Manager of bonvoyage.co.uk, spoke about the findings:
“One of our aims here at bonvoyage.co.uk is to inform people about all the types of cruise holidays on offer, and try to banish the stereotype that some people may have about cruising. There is a perfect cruise out there for every occasion, weather it is a family fun packed holiday, a romantic honeymoon or even an adventurous stag/hen party; and it seems that more and more are cottoning on to cruises as a unique way to celebrate before they marry.”
She continued:
“It was interesting to see that those who picked a cruise for their stag or hen did so as a more ‘interesting’ option than other destinations. They are certainly a great way to visit a range of destinations- and with most offering food and drink packages in with the price, can be an affordable option on a budget. Why just go to Amsterdam when you can visit a whole host of wild European cities on a cruise in one week!”
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Tuesday, 7 August 2012
How Do You Find The Best Cruise Holiday
Preparing and booking a cruise holiday is much different from booking other kinds of holidays, especially if you do the search. However, there are some good tips as to how you need to search and find the right cruise holiday and how you can benefit by using the travel agent.
First, choosing a cruise holiday on your own allows you to select where and when you desire to go. Several routes are seasonal because cruises normally follow warm weather conditions. Therefore, any time you want to travel, it will limit your options. For instance, the weather in Alaska and Canada is favored in summer when the climate is friendly. If you want to visit particular destination, then you will have to plan your time for the cruise season of the location.
After you have decided on your intended location, you will then have to choose your cruise company. Few companies are available to choose from so at times you will have fewer choices and sometimes cost, and agenda are the determining issues. You can also get online and search for the real cruise lines' ships since several maps of the ships and services are provided. In addition, to help you choose the company and ship, you can search for online customer reviews and get opinions from friends who have used the cruises.
Once you choose the ship and cruise company, you will need to decide about the type of cabin. Keep in mind that each cabin will be small. Other than overspending on a suite, your optional facilities will be either a window or a balcony. If your financial plan is very tight, then this may not be your choice. Cabins with windows and balconies book up quickly specifically on locations where the sights draw attention.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
First, choosing a cruise holiday on your own allows you to select where and when you desire to go. Several routes are seasonal because cruises normally follow warm weather conditions. Therefore, any time you want to travel, it will limit your options. For instance, the weather in Alaska and Canada is favored in summer when the climate is friendly. If you want to visit particular destination, then you will have to plan your time for the cruise season of the location.
After you have decided on your intended location, you will then have to choose your cruise company. Few companies are available to choose from so at times you will have fewer choices and sometimes cost, and agenda are the determining issues. You can also get online and search for the real cruise lines' ships since several maps of the ships and services are provided. In addition, to help you choose the company and ship, you can search for online customer reviews and get opinions from friends who have used the cruises.
Once you choose the ship and cruise company, you will need to decide about the type of cabin. Keep in mind that each cabin will be small. Other than overspending on a suite, your optional facilities will be either a window or a balcony. If your financial plan is very tight, then this may not be your choice. Cabins with windows and balconies book up quickly specifically on locations where the sights draw attention.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Thursday, 2 August 2012
Madagascar and Southern Africa Adventures
Mighty Baobabs and majestic volcanic mountains between untouched rainforests and wonderful beaches, make Madagascar, the jewel of the Indian Ocean.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering two expedition trips through Madagascar and Southern Africa in December 2012 and December 2013 onboard the MS Hanseatic and the Bremen, with maiden calls on both itineraries. The Hanseatic, the world’s only 5-star expedition ship and the Bremen, a 4-star plus expedition ship, according to the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships, were created to provide intensive exploration in the most elegant surroundings for a maximum of 184 guests on the Hanseatic and 164 guests on the Bremen.
An exotic flora and fauna has developed on Madagascar that does not exist anywhere else on earth. There are more than 12,000 species of plants recorded on Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world. Guests will experience lemurs in pristine nature, animals in the wild, and wonderful beaches on romantic coasts.
Winter 2012: The Hanseatic will make stops at six new ports along her tropic adventure in December 2012, which include stops in the following new ports in Madagascar: Maroantsetra, Nosy Hara, Morondava, Nosy Ve, and Toliara and a first time stop in Mozambique, at the picturesque city of Ilha dos Portugueses.
Optional shore excursions: Hiking in Masoala National Park to see lemurs in the rainforest, canoeing to Lokobe Nature Reserve, zodiac landings on Nosy Lakandava and Nosy Hara for swimming between coral reefs and rock formations, a safari in Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa, and a visit to the Addo Elephant Park, also in South Africa.
Trip Details: This 16-day itinerary is from December 3-19, 2012, from Port Louis/Mauritius to Cape Town/South Africa. Rates start at $7,750 per person for an outside cabin.
Winter 2013: Guests will join the Bremen as she calls on the west coast of Madagascar for the first time. New ports of call in Madagascar include: Nosy Hara, Mahajanga, Morondava and Nosy Be.
Optional shore excursions: Hiking in Lokobe Nature Reserve to admire gigantic trees and bird watching, a boat ride to Nosy Komba, also know as “lemur island,” snorkeling on Nosy Lakandava and Nosy Hara, a visit to the Zulu village of Kwabhekithunga in South Africa and a safari to view the “Big Five,” also in South Africa.
Trip Details: This 17-day itinerary is from December 1-18, 2013, from Port Louis/Mauritius to Cape Town/South Africa. Rates start at $7,020 per person for an outside cabin.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering two expedition trips through Madagascar and Southern Africa in December 2012 and December 2013 onboard the MS Hanseatic and the Bremen, with maiden calls on both itineraries. The Hanseatic, the world’s only 5-star expedition ship and the Bremen, a 4-star plus expedition ship, according to the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships, were created to provide intensive exploration in the most elegant surroundings for a maximum of 184 guests on the Hanseatic and 164 guests on the Bremen.
An exotic flora and fauna has developed on Madagascar that does not exist anywhere else on earth. There are more than 12,000 species of plants recorded on Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world. Guests will experience lemurs in pristine nature, animals in the wild, and wonderful beaches on romantic coasts.
Winter 2012: The Hanseatic will make stops at six new ports along her tropic adventure in December 2012, which include stops in the following new ports in Madagascar: Maroantsetra, Nosy Hara, Morondava, Nosy Ve, and Toliara and a first time stop in Mozambique, at the picturesque city of Ilha dos Portugueses.
Optional shore excursions: Hiking in Masoala National Park to see lemurs in the rainforest, canoeing to Lokobe Nature Reserve, zodiac landings on Nosy Lakandava and Nosy Hara for swimming between coral reefs and rock formations, a safari in Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa, and a visit to the Addo Elephant Park, also in South Africa.
Trip Details: This 16-day itinerary is from December 3-19, 2012, from Port Louis/Mauritius to Cape Town/South Africa. Rates start at $7,750 per person for an outside cabin.
Winter 2013: Guests will join the Bremen as she calls on the west coast of Madagascar for the first time. New ports of call in Madagascar include: Nosy Hara, Mahajanga, Morondava and Nosy Be.
Optional shore excursions: Hiking in Lokobe Nature Reserve to admire gigantic trees and bird watching, a boat ride to Nosy Komba, also know as “lemur island,” snorkeling on Nosy Lakandava and Nosy Hara, a visit to the Zulu village of Kwabhekithunga in South Africa and a safari to view the “Big Five,” also in South Africa.
Trip Details: This 17-day itinerary is from December 1-18, 2013, from Port Louis/Mauritius to Cape Town/South Africa. Rates start at $7,020 per person for an outside cabin.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 27 July 2012
Sharp Increase in Northern Europe Cruises
Cruises to northern Europe have seen a sharp rise this year with the overall number of ‘cool water cruises' predicted to be up by 16 per cent compared to 2011.
The number of passengers cruising the Arctic, which includes Iceland, is predicted to increase by 37 per cent compared with last year. Cruises to the Norwegian fjords are expected to increase by 29 per cent. And round-U.K. cruises are forecast to increase by 16 per cent. Baltic cruises -- which account for the largest number of cruises in the region - are predicted to rise by six per cent.
The data, compiled for CLIA and the European Cruise Council – estimates that a total of 1.49 million cruise passengers are expected to cruise in northern European waters - up by 16 per cent from 1.28 million last year.
Bo Larsen, director of Cruise Baltic, an association of 25 Baltic Sea destinations and a partner to the European Cruise Council, said: “The Northern European cruise market is growing rapidly, benefitting both from the region's newly extended range of destinations and also from the cruise lines' desire to extend their season here well into the colder months of the year".
In all, cruise ships from a total 44 cruise lines serve a total 253 ports in the northern European region, of which 52 are in the Baltic, 78 in Norway and the Arctic region, and 123 in north western Europe (including the British Isles, North Sea and Atlantic ports).
Kathryn Beadle, MD at Hurtigruten U.K. said: “Having been established on the coast of Norway since 1893, Hurtigruten have been pioneers in promoting cooler climes. Travellers no longer just head to the sun for their holidays as they don't want to just flop and drop, they want authentic and unique experiences and when these are set within breath-taking scenery it provides travellers with memories that last a lifetime.”
• ‘Cool water cruising' is likely to receive a further boost with the news that a London-based travel specialist BAway will be the first agent to package a new visa-free cruise and stay package from Helsinki to St. Petersburg. The four-night break starts with flights from Heathrow to Helsinki before embarking on the Princess Maria, St. Peterline's ferry service from Helsinki. Guests spend overnight on the ferry, which has all the amenities of a cruise including five restaurants and bars, duty free shop and buffet dinner including free beer and wine on board. Passengers can then board the free shuttle bus into St Petersburg, using their ferry ticket as a visa to access the city.
Prices start from £479.00 per person for a four night stay, which includes two nights on the ferry, buffet dinner with wine/beer on the ferry each night and two nights twin bedded accommodation in a four star hotel in St. Petersburg as well as a bus ticket allowing travellers access to transport from the port and around the city for the duration of their stay.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The number of passengers cruising the Arctic, which includes Iceland, is predicted to increase by 37 per cent compared with last year. Cruises to the Norwegian fjords are expected to increase by 29 per cent. And round-U.K. cruises are forecast to increase by 16 per cent. Baltic cruises -- which account for the largest number of cruises in the region - are predicted to rise by six per cent.
The data, compiled for CLIA and the European Cruise Council – estimates that a total of 1.49 million cruise passengers are expected to cruise in northern European waters - up by 16 per cent from 1.28 million last year.
Bo Larsen, director of Cruise Baltic, an association of 25 Baltic Sea destinations and a partner to the European Cruise Council, said: “The Northern European cruise market is growing rapidly, benefitting both from the region's newly extended range of destinations and also from the cruise lines' desire to extend their season here well into the colder months of the year".
In all, cruise ships from a total 44 cruise lines serve a total 253 ports in the northern European region, of which 52 are in the Baltic, 78 in Norway and the Arctic region, and 123 in north western Europe (including the British Isles, North Sea and Atlantic ports).
Kathryn Beadle, MD at Hurtigruten U.K. said: “Having been established on the coast of Norway since 1893, Hurtigruten have been pioneers in promoting cooler climes. Travellers no longer just head to the sun for their holidays as they don't want to just flop and drop, they want authentic and unique experiences and when these are set within breath-taking scenery it provides travellers with memories that last a lifetime.”
• ‘Cool water cruising' is likely to receive a further boost with the news that a London-based travel specialist BAway will be the first agent to package a new visa-free cruise and stay package from Helsinki to St. Petersburg. The four-night break starts with flights from Heathrow to Helsinki before embarking on the Princess Maria, St. Peterline's ferry service from Helsinki. Guests spend overnight on the ferry, which has all the amenities of a cruise including five restaurants and bars, duty free shop and buffet dinner including free beer and wine on board. Passengers can then board the free shuttle bus into St Petersburg, using their ferry ticket as a visa to access the city.
Prices start from £479.00 per person for a four night stay, which includes two nights on the ferry, buffet dinner with wine/beer on the ferry each night and two nights twin bedded accommodation in a four star hotel in St. Petersburg as well as a bus ticket allowing travellers access to transport from the port and around the city for the duration of their stay.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Thursday, 26 July 2012
More Holland America Line Capacity in Alaska for 2013
For the 2013 Alaska cruise season, Holland America Line is increasing its presence in the region with more departures and more guests than in previous years.
Although the number of Holland America ships deployed in Alaska will remain at seven — the same as 2012 — ms Amsterdam will double its departures on new seven-day roundtrip sailings from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. As a result, Alaska-season departures will increase 8.5 percent and guest capacity will increase 6 percent over 2012.
Plus, Early Advantage savings feature complimentary upgrades and free and reduced fares for third or fourth guests who share the same stateroom on select sailings. By planning ahead, a family of four can take advantage of fares on select departure dates starting at $699 per person for the first and second guest in a stateroom, and the third and fourth sailing free. Taxes are additional.
“Increasing our capacity in Alaska means that Holland America Line will offer nearly 1.6 million passenger days in the 2013 season,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “These itineraries have always been among our most popular, and Amsterdam’s new seven day departures will allow us to bring more guests to Alaska and show off the natural beauty of this part of the world. We also encourage travelers to book early and enjoy greater benefits with Early Advantage savings.”
When the 1,380-guest Amsterdam begins its Alaska season May 24, the ship will sail a series of 17 seven-day Inside Passage voyages. The Vancouver sailings feature port calls at Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as scenic cruising throughout Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm Fjord/Twin Sawyer glaciers.
For the 2013 Alaska cruise season, Holland America Line also will feature ms Zaandam and ms Statendam each sailing on 18 Gulf of Alaska departures from Vancouver. Statendam and Zaandam also will sail four total Inside Passage routes, along with Amsterdam (17), ms Volendam (21) and ms Zuiderdam (20). In addition, ms Oosterdam and ms Westerdam are slated to sail 21 and 20, respectively, seven-night voyages from Seattle, Wash.
Seven-day Alaskan Explorer Voyages Sail Roundtrip from Seattle
Starting May 5 and 11, respectively, the 1,916-guest Oosterdam (Sunday departures) and 1,916-guest Westerdam (Saturday departures) will sail 21 and 20 seven-day Alaskan Explorer voyages departing roundtrip from Seattle. The itinerary features port calls at Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan, Alaska; Victoria, British Columbia; and a scenic cruising experience at Tracy Arm Fjord/Twin Sawyer glaciers or Glacier Bay National Park.
Seven-day Inside Passage Voyages Sail Roundtrip from Vancouver
Five Holland America Line ships – Amsterdam, Statendam, Volendam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam – will sail roundtrip from Vancouver on a series of seven-day Inside Passage voyages. The 1,432-guest Volendam (Wednesday departures) and 1,916-guest Zuiderdam (Saturday departures) sail a total of 41 voyages from May 1 to September 21. During those voyages guests will visit Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay National Park and make a shore excursion call at Tracy Arm Fjord.
Four additional Inside Passage cruises sail aboard Statendam and Zaandam. Statendam departs Vancouver May 5 and 12, and September 22. Zaandam departs May 5.
During embarkation for the Seattle voyages, a ranger from the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park will be available to talk to guests about the Klondike parks and other national parks located throughout the Inside Passage. On all Glacier Bay sailings, a park ranger and native interpreters from the Huna people board the ships to explain the origins of their tribe and cultural traditions.
Seven-Day Glacier Discovery Voyages Sail from Vancouver to Seward (or reverse)
The 1,260-guest Statendam and 1,432-guest Zaandam once again will provide the only mid-sized cruise ship experience available in the Gulf of Alaska. Glacier Discovery cruises sail between Vancouver and Seward (Anchorage) with Sunday departures May 13 through September 16. The itinerary features port calls at Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, a day at sea in the Gulf of Alaska and scenic cruising through the Inside Passage. Each ship will sail 18 voyages and include a visit to Glacier Bay.
CruiseTours and Exclusive Shore Adventures Provide More Discovery of Alaska
Added capacity and departures also will send more guests on the line’s CruiseTours, which combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with in-depth overland tours to the Yukon and Alaska’s interior. Offering up to three days at Denali National Park for wildlife viewing and spectacular scenery, CruiseTours are designed to highlight the best of Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, native culture and history.
Holland America Line offers more than 250 optional shore excursions in conjunction with its Alaska cruises. While in port, guests can optimize their Alaskan experience with excursions that involve everything from adventure and wildlife watching to history, art and cuisine. Exclusive Cruise with Purpose shore excursions turn vacation time into an exciting give-and-take opportunity — combining traditional tour content with a chance to make a difference to society, the environment, animal welfare or economic growth.
Guests also can enjoy active excursions such as sea kayaking, fly or sport fishing, dog sledding and viewing eagles, sea otters and whales. Other exciting excursions feature such attractions as the White Pass Summit Scenic Railway from Skagway, Russian heritage in Sitka, a photography tour in Haines and a five-course tasting meal featuring Alaska seafood prepared by a local chef in Ketchikan.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Although the number of Holland America ships deployed in Alaska will remain at seven — the same as 2012 — ms Amsterdam will double its departures on new seven-day roundtrip sailings from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. As a result, Alaska-season departures will increase 8.5 percent and guest capacity will increase 6 percent over 2012.
Plus, Early Advantage savings feature complimentary upgrades and free and reduced fares for third or fourth guests who share the same stateroom on select sailings. By planning ahead, a family of four can take advantage of fares on select departure dates starting at $699 per person for the first and second guest in a stateroom, and the third and fourth sailing free. Taxes are additional.
“Increasing our capacity in Alaska means that Holland America Line will offer nearly 1.6 million passenger days in the 2013 season,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “These itineraries have always been among our most popular, and Amsterdam’s new seven day departures will allow us to bring more guests to Alaska and show off the natural beauty of this part of the world. We also encourage travelers to book early and enjoy greater benefits with Early Advantage savings.”
When the 1,380-guest Amsterdam begins its Alaska season May 24, the ship will sail a series of 17 seven-day Inside Passage voyages. The Vancouver sailings feature port calls at Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as scenic cruising throughout Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm Fjord/Twin Sawyer glaciers.
For the 2013 Alaska cruise season, Holland America Line also will feature ms Zaandam and ms Statendam each sailing on 18 Gulf of Alaska departures from Vancouver. Statendam and Zaandam also will sail four total Inside Passage routes, along with Amsterdam (17), ms Volendam (21) and ms Zuiderdam (20). In addition, ms Oosterdam and ms Westerdam are slated to sail 21 and 20, respectively, seven-night voyages from Seattle, Wash.
Seven-day Alaskan Explorer Voyages Sail Roundtrip from Seattle
Starting May 5 and 11, respectively, the 1,916-guest Oosterdam (Sunday departures) and 1,916-guest Westerdam (Saturday departures) will sail 21 and 20 seven-day Alaskan Explorer voyages departing roundtrip from Seattle. The itinerary features port calls at Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan, Alaska; Victoria, British Columbia; and a scenic cruising experience at Tracy Arm Fjord/Twin Sawyer glaciers or Glacier Bay National Park.
Seven-day Inside Passage Voyages Sail Roundtrip from Vancouver
Five Holland America Line ships – Amsterdam, Statendam, Volendam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam – will sail roundtrip from Vancouver on a series of seven-day Inside Passage voyages. The 1,432-guest Volendam (Wednesday departures) and 1,916-guest Zuiderdam (Saturday departures) sail a total of 41 voyages from May 1 to September 21. During those voyages guests will visit Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay National Park and make a shore excursion call at Tracy Arm Fjord.
Four additional Inside Passage cruises sail aboard Statendam and Zaandam. Statendam departs Vancouver May 5 and 12, and September 22. Zaandam departs May 5.
During embarkation for the Seattle voyages, a ranger from the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park will be available to talk to guests about the Klondike parks and other national parks located throughout the Inside Passage. On all Glacier Bay sailings, a park ranger and native interpreters from the Huna people board the ships to explain the origins of their tribe and cultural traditions.
Seven-Day Glacier Discovery Voyages Sail from Vancouver to Seward (or reverse)
The 1,260-guest Statendam and 1,432-guest Zaandam once again will provide the only mid-sized cruise ship experience available in the Gulf of Alaska. Glacier Discovery cruises sail between Vancouver and Seward (Anchorage) with Sunday departures May 13 through September 16. The itinerary features port calls at Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, a day at sea in the Gulf of Alaska and scenic cruising through the Inside Passage. Each ship will sail 18 voyages and include a visit to Glacier Bay.
CruiseTours and Exclusive Shore Adventures Provide More Discovery of Alaska
Added capacity and departures also will send more guests on the line’s CruiseTours, which combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with in-depth overland tours to the Yukon and Alaska’s interior. Offering up to three days at Denali National Park for wildlife viewing and spectacular scenery, CruiseTours are designed to highlight the best of Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, native culture and history.
Holland America Line offers more than 250 optional shore excursions in conjunction with its Alaska cruises. While in port, guests can optimize their Alaskan experience with excursions that involve everything from adventure and wildlife watching to history, art and cuisine. Exclusive Cruise with Purpose shore excursions turn vacation time into an exciting give-and-take opportunity — combining traditional tour content with a chance to make a difference to society, the environment, animal welfare or economic growth.
Guests also can enjoy active excursions such as sea kayaking, fly or sport fishing, dog sledding and viewing eagles, sea otters and whales. Other exciting excursions feature such attractions as the White Pass Summit Scenic Railway from Skagway, Russian heritage in Sitka, a photography tour in Haines and a five-course tasting meal featuring Alaska seafood prepared by a local chef in Ketchikan.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 25 July 2012
MSC Divina Homeports in Miami for 2013-2014 Winter
MSC Cruises is deploying the 139,000-ton Divina on Caribbean cruises out of Miami from Nov. 20, 2013 to April 12, 2014 – the first time a Fantasia-class ship is sailing from a North American homeport.
According to MSC, the Divina has 1,751 staterooms and 30,000 square meters of public space which include a casino, seven restaurants, 20 bars and lounges, 4 swimming pools, a bowling alley, a gym and the Aurea spa.
The ship also features the MSC Yacht Club – “a ship-within-a-ship” – designed as a sanctuary for guests seeking peace, privacy and exclusivity but with access to all that large cruise ships offer. The MSC Yacht Club offers 69 butler serviced superior suites, 24 hour concierge service, the dedicated restaurant Le Muse, a private swimming pool featuring the One Bar, private decks, private lift access to MSC Aurea Spa, complimentary wines and spirits and sweeping sea views from its private Top Sail Lounge.
The Divina departs from Venice Nov. 2, 2013 for a 19-day trans-Atlantic crossing, calling at Valletta, Malaga, Funchal, St. Maarten, San Juan and Nassau, before arriving in Miami.
Three different seven-night Caribbean itineraries will be offered: Four cruises calling at St. Maarten, San Juan and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Ten sailings calling at Falmouth, Cayman Islands, Cozumel and Great Stirrup Cay. Six cruises to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Great Stirrup Cay. And, one cruise to Bermuda also calling at Great Stirrup Cay.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
According to MSC, the Divina has 1,751 staterooms and 30,000 square meters of public space which include a casino, seven restaurants, 20 bars and lounges, 4 swimming pools, a bowling alley, a gym and the Aurea spa.
The ship also features the MSC Yacht Club – “a ship-within-a-ship” – designed as a sanctuary for guests seeking peace, privacy and exclusivity but with access to all that large cruise ships offer. The MSC Yacht Club offers 69 butler serviced superior suites, 24 hour concierge service, the dedicated restaurant Le Muse, a private swimming pool featuring the One Bar, private decks, private lift access to MSC Aurea Spa, complimentary wines and spirits and sweeping sea views from its private Top Sail Lounge.
The Divina departs from Venice Nov. 2, 2013 for a 19-day trans-Atlantic crossing, calling at Valletta, Malaga, Funchal, St. Maarten, San Juan and Nassau, before arriving in Miami.
Three different seven-night Caribbean itineraries will be offered: Four cruises calling at St. Maarten, San Juan and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Ten sailings calling at Falmouth, Cayman Islands, Cozumel and Great Stirrup Cay. Six cruises to St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Great Stirrup Cay. And, one cruise to Bermuda also calling at Great Stirrup Cay.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday, 23 July 2012
Cruise Ships to be Banned from Venice?
The long-running row over large cruise ships entering the Venice lagoon escalated this week with the news the Italian government is considering a law to ban them entirely.
The environment committee of Italy's parliament is at the review stage of a bill, which could give the city council powers over the surrounding waters. A ministerial decree was issued in March banning ships over 40,000 tonnes -- mid-sized ships -- from sailing too close to the Doge's Palace, but it will only come into force once an alternative solution has been found.
Following the Costa Concordia disaster, UNESCO appealed to the Italian authorities to ban large ships from entering the San Marco basin and Giudeccia canal, due to the environmental damage they cause. Increasing numbers of ships are mooring in the port, at the end of the Grand Canal. But although the authorities agreed in principle nothing has changed.
The senator for Venice Felice Casson want to go a stage further –- banning all ships of more 30,000 tonnes from entering the lagoon. Casson wants the ships to dock outside either at Malamocco or a custom-built offshore port near the future Mose barrier [designed to protect the historic city].
A 30,000-ton ship is classified as “small” by today's standards; P&O's Adonia is 30,200 tons and carries 710 people, for example.
This row escalated with the arrival of the new MSC Divina, one of the largest ships ever to visit the historic city. Divina was greeted with huge banners saying ‘No Grandi Navi' (‘No big ships'). Venice, as one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, depends heavily on cruise tourism.
"The two or three big cruise operators which control international business have massive clout,"said Francesco Bandarin, Unesco assistant director general for culture.
The head of the local council, Giorgio Orsoni, worries about the damage to the city's foundations from ships passing through the Giudeccia canal, only 10 metres deep. The water they displace acts as a pump for the seabed, shaking even the San Marco basilica.
"We are victims of the state," Orsoni added. "The big cruise ships deal with the port authorities who report to central government. [The ships] pay €40,000 ($49,000) each time they moor, with 3,500 calls a year, but Venice gets nothing out of it. The 2 million passengers who disembark spend very little, maybe just buying a drink."
The state of the lagoon is a deep cause of concern. "The wash churned up by the ships is hollowing out the seabed and gradually turning the lagoon into an inlet of the Adriatic," warned Angelo Marzollo, the author of a Unesco report. "The erosion is particularly bad in the southern part."
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The environment committee of Italy's parliament is at the review stage of a bill, which could give the city council powers over the surrounding waters. A ministerial decree was issued in March banning ships over 40,000 tonnes -- mid-sized ships -- from sailing too close to the Doge's Palace, but it will only come into force once an alternative solution has been found.
Following the Costa Concordia disaster, UNESCO appealed to the Italian authorities to ban large ships from entering the San Marco basin and Giudeccia canal, due to the environmental damage they cause. Increasing numbers of ships are mooring in the port, at the end of the Grand Canal. But although the authorities agreed in principle nothing has changed.
The senator for Venice Felice Casson want to go a stage further –- banning all ships of more 30,000 tonnes from entering the lagoon. Casson wants the ships to dock outside either at Malamocco or a custom-built offshore port near the future Mose barrier [designed to protect the historic city].
A 30,000-ton ship is classified as “small” by today's standards; P&O's Adonia is 30,200 tons and carries 710 people, for example.
This row escalated with the arrival of the new MSC Divina, one of the largest ships ever to visit the historic city. Divina was greeted with huge banners saying ‘No Grandi Navi' (‘No big ships'). Venice, as one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, depends heavily on cruise tourism.
"The two or three big cruise operators which control international business have massive clout,"said Francesco Bandarin, Unesco assistant director general for culture.
The head of the local council, Giorgio Orsoni, worries about the damage to the city's foundations from ships passing through the Giudeccia canal, only 10 metres deep. The water they displace acts as a pump for the seabed, shaking even the San Marco basilica.
"We are victims of the state," Orsoni added. "The big cruise ships deal with the port authorities who report to central government. [The ships] pay €40,000 ($49,000) each time they moor, with 3,500 calls a year, but Venice gets nothing out of it. The 2 million passengers who disembark spend very little, maybe just buying a drink."
The state of the lagoon is a deep cause of concern. "The wash churned up by the ships is hollowing out the seabed and gradually turning the lagoon into an inlet of the Adriatic," warned Angelo Marzollo, the author of a Unesco report. "The erosion is particularly bad in the southern part."
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 20 July 2012
Windstar Cruises Releases 2013 Voyage Collection
Windstar Cruises has just released its new 120-page Voyage Collection Brochure showcasing the 2013 sailings.
The brochure gives detailed information on itinerary schedules, destination information and news on Windstar’s renovations.
Windstar Cruises 2013 deployment features sailings in the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Northern Europe, Italy, Mediterranean, Greek Isles and the Transatlantic Crossings. The brochure showcases the unique voyages day-by-day, such as the signature Greek Isles and Turkish Delights, or the new Idyllic British Islands, giving an in-depth look at adventures off the ship.
Seven new voyages will debut in 2013. Among those sailing for the first time are Footsteps of Faith, which explores the origins of world religions between Athens and Alexandria and the Gaelic Explorers, a journey through the hills and highlands, castles and pubs of Scotland and Ireland.
Along with the enticing collection of voyages, the new Voyage Collection brochure also shares the floor-plans for the newly renovated Wind Star and the soon-to-be renovated Wind Surf and Wind Spirit. The $18 million, fleet-wide renovation features completely redesigned staterooms and a new level of casual elegance onboard in all public areas.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The brochure gives detailed information on itinerary schedules, destination information and news on Windstar’s renovations.
Windstar Cruises 2013 deployment features sailings in the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Northern Europe, Italy, Mediterranean, Greek Isles and the Transatlantic Crossings. The brochure showcases the unique voyages day-by-day, such as the signature Greek Isles and Turkish Delights, or the new Idyllic British Islands, giving an in-depth look at adventures off the ship.
Seven new voyages will debut in 2013. Among those sailing for the first time are Footsteps of Faith, which explores the origins of world religions between Athens and Alexandria and the Gaelic Explorers, a journey through the hills and highlands, castles and pubs of Scotland and Ireland.
Along with the enticing collection of voyages, the new Voyage Collection brochure also shares the floor-plans for the newly renovated Wind Star and the soon-to-be renovated Wind Surf and Wind Spirit. The $18 million, fleet-wide renovation features completely redesigned staterooms and a new level of casual elegance onboard in all public areas.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday, 25 June 2012
Europe A Sea of Challenges: Summer 2012
Some countries in Europe continue to be strong despite the economic and political challenges that much of Europe is facing. Other countries, especially in Southern Europe, may be on the verge of economic collapse, as a sea of challenges keeps coming.
Meanwhile, the cruise passenger capacity for 2012 for ships sailing in Europe is approximately 5.7 million, up 5 percent from 5.4 million in 2011, compared to a 9 percent increase from 2010 to 2011.
While deployed cruise capacity is an indication of market health, the true diagnosis will come when the publicly held companies report their third quarter earnings. There is a difference between filling ships and filling ships at profitable rates.
Have contingency plans become the rule rather than the exception? The big upset this year was, of course, the grounding of the Costa Concordia, and if that did not hit Costa and the industry hard enough, only weeks later the Costa Allegra suffered a crippling engine room fire for yet another round of negative press coverage.
The cruise industry has subsequently stepped up its offensive both in North America and Europe and announced a number of proactive safety measures, and the European Cruise Council (ECC) has been working hard with European institutions to make sure they understand that the recent incidents are not commonplace, according to Robert Ashdown, director of technical affairs, environment and operations for the ECC.
“We need to make sure that when governments look at the need for further regulations, they have the full picture,” he said.
Currently, the whole gamut of environmental issues is alsol on the table.
“We would like to see that any regulation that comes through is practical and achievable,” Ashdown said, “including labor affairs, and health and hygiene issues, which affect all global operators.”
Financial analysts are taking a cautious approach for the near term. According to Goldman Sachs, following a massive surge in European capacity, cruise lines may have to wait for customers and pricing to catch up.
There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the situation in Greece and by implication in Spain, Portugal, Ireland and, perhaps most important, Italy, according to David Leibowitz, research analyst at Horizon Kinetics in New York. While new ship launches and special events help create publicity, the issue that consumers are struggling with, he said, is what their situation will be like six to eight months from now.
In the UK, David Selby, managing director of Travelyields, a travel consulting firm, said that people are concerned about their jobs and are careful about how they spend their money. He said he has never seen such low prices on cruises, which he attributed to late bookings, and “if the market was better, the deals would not be there.”
But there is light at the end of the infamous tunnel. Based on historical models, Leibowitz said the next few years will see European markets turn around – helped by a slower newbuild pace and the retirement of older tonnage.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Meanwhile, the cruise passenger capacity for 2012 for ships sailing in Europe is approximately 5.7 million, up 5 percent from 5.4 million in 2011, compared to a 9 percent increase from 2010 to 2011.
While deployed cruise capacity is an indication of market health, the true diagnosis will come when the publicly held companies report their third quarter earnings. There is a difference between filling ships and filling ships at profitable rates.
Have contingency plans become the rule rather than the exception? The big upset this year was, of course, the grounding of the Costa Concordia, and if that did not hit Costa and the industry hard enough, only weeks later the Costa Allegra suffered a crippling engine room fire for yet another round of negative press coverage.
The cruise industry has subsequently stepped up its offensive both in North America and Europe and announced a number of proactive safety measures, and the European Cruise Council (ECC) has been working hard with European institutions to make sure they understand that the recent incidents are not commonplace, according to Robert Ashdown, director of technical affairs, environment and operations for the ECC.
“We need to make sure that when governments look at the need for further regulations, they have the full picture,” he said.
Currently, the whole gamut of environmental issues is alsol on the table.
“We would like to see that any regulation that comes through is practical and achievable,” Ashdown said, “including labor affairs, and health and hygiene issues, which affect all global operators.”
Financial analysts are taking a cautious approach for the near term. According to Goldman Sachs, following a massive surge in European capacity, cruise lines may have to wait for customers and pricing to catch up.
There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the situation in Greece and by implication in Spain, Portugal, Ireland and, perhaps most important, Italy, according to David Leibowitz, research analyst at Horizon Kinetics in New York. While new ship launches and special events help create publicity, the issue that consumers are struggling with, he said, is what their situation will be like six to eight months from now.
In the UK, David Selby, managing director of Travelyields, a travel consulting firm, said that people are concerned about their jobs and are careful about how they spend their money. He said he has never seen such low prices on cruises, which he attributed to late bookings, and “if the market was better, the deals would not be there.”
But there is light at the end of the infamous tunnel. Based on historical models, Leibowitz said the next few years will see European markets turn around – helped by a slower newbuild pace and the retirement of older tonnage.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
Father’s Day Deals Up to 60% Off With Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is celebrating Father’s Day with a special five-day cruise sale from June 14-18. Passengers will find cruise deals to destinations such as Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Europe, the Caribbean and Hawaii. The sale offers savings up to 60 percent off of launch fares per stateroom, plus up to $100 onboard credit. The sale includes more than 80 cruise options in 2012, departing between August and December.
In addition to fare savings, passengers booking interior or oceanview staterooms can receive an onboard credit of $25 (cruises up to 9 days) to $50 (cruises 10 days or longer), and in balcony staterooms or above can get credits of $50 (cruises up to 9 days) or $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer). All onboard credits are offered per stateroom.
Examples of cruise deals include: Caribbean cruise – 7 days: $799 balcony (was $949); $549 interior (was $599) ; Grand Mediterranean cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,290); $799 interior (was $2,190); Greek Isles cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,240); $799 interior (was $2,140); Hawaii cruise – 14 days: $1,899 balcony (was $2,345); $1,199 interior (was $1,445); and Southeast Asia cruise – 16 days: $2,199 balcony (was $3,185); $1,499 interior (was $1,995).
All cruise prices are per person, based on double occupancy. The Father’s Day Sale begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on June 14 through 11:59 p.m. PDT on June 18, 2012 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Reservations made during the sale require a non-refundable deposit.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
In addition to fare savings, passengers booking interior or oceanview staterooms can receive an onboard credit of $25 (cruises up to 9 days) to $50 (cruises 10 days or longer), and in balcony staterooms or above can get credits of $50 (cruises up to 9 days) or $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer). All onboard credits are offered per stateroom.
Examples of cruise deals include: Caribbean cruise – 7 days: $799 balcony (was $949); $549 interior (was $599) ; Grand Mediterranean cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,290); $799 interior (was $2,190); Greek Isles cruise – 12 days: $1,299 balcony (was $3,240); $799 interior (was $2,140); Hawaii cruise – 14 days: $1,899 balcony (was $2,345); $1,199 interior (was $1,445); and Southeast Asia cruise – 16 days: $2,199 balcony (was $3,185); $1,499 interior (was $1,995).
All cruise prices are per person, based on double occupancy. The Father’s Day Sale begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on June 14 through 11:59 p.m. PDT on June 18, 2012 and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Reservations made during the sale require a non-refundable deposit.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Saturday, 9 June 2012
Royal Caribbean 'Wow' Sale
Cruise vacationers who saw summer creeping-up on them without a firm plan in place still have a chance to book a cruise hrough Royal Caribbean International’s three-day WOW Sale. With a world of options ranging in Europe, Caribbean, the Far East and Australia and New Zealand, vacationers can receive up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom to enjoy during their cruise when they book a Royal Caribbean cruise, sailing on or after August 15, 2012.
Additionally, all guests will enjoy Royal Caribbean’s ships, exciting destinations, and friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service from every staff and crew member, also known as the Royal Advantage.
“There’s no time better than now for vacationers to book their summer vacation or a future cruise with Royal Caribbean,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president of Global Sales and Marketing for Royal Caribbean International. “Vacationers may choose among any of our worldwide locations aboard any of our recently revitalized ships.
Guests will enjoy our fleet’s new range of delectable onboard dining experiences, cutting-edge entertainment and innovative amenities such as zip lines, rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks and FlowRider surf simulators, as well as Royal Caribbean’s world-renowned, friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. ”
For all new individual bookings made with deposit on June 11, 12 or 13, 2012, vacationers can enjoy $50 onboard credit per stateroom for three- to five-night itineraries; $100 per stateroom for six- to nine-night itineraries; and $200 per stateroom for 10-night or longer itineraries. Additionally, vacationers enjoy 50 percent reduced deposit as part of the offer, and can reserve a stateroom for as low as $50. The offer is valid for all Royal Caribbean International sailings departing on or after August 15, 2012, including aboard the world’s largest and most innovative sister-ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. Offer is not combinable with any other offers or promotions and is not valid in Australia, New Zealand or China.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Additionally, all guests will enjoy Royal Caribbean’s ships, exciting destinations, and friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service from every staff and crew member, also known as the Royal Advantage.
“There’s no time better than now for vacationers to book their summer vacation or a future cruise with Royal Caribbean,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president of Global Sales and Marketing for Royal Caribbean International. “Vacationers may choose among any of our worldwide locations aboard any of our recently revitalized ships.
Guests will enjoy our fleet’s new range of delectable onboard dining experiences, cutting-edge entertainment and innovative amenities such as zip lines, rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks and FlowRider surf simulators, as well as Royal Caribbean’s world-renowned, friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. ”
For all new individual bookings made with deposit on June 11, 12 or 13, 2012, vacationers can enjoy $50 onboard credit per stateroom for three- to five-night itineraries; $100 per stateroom for six- to nine-night itineraries; and $200 per stateroom for 10-night or longer itineraries. Additionally, vacationers enjoy 50 percent reduced deposit as part of the offer, and can reserve a stateroom for as low as $50. The offer is valid for all Royal Caribbean International sailings departing on or after August 15, 2012, including aboard the world’s largest and most innovative sister-ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. Offer is not combinable with any other offers or promotions and is not valid in Australia, New Zealand or China.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 8 June 2012
Carnival Breeze’s Offers More than 180 Shore Excursions
For the Carnival Breeze’s inaugural season in Europe, Carnival Cruise Lines has assembled a diverse array of shore excursions with more than 180 different choices, including several “select experiences” that allow guests to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in a more personalized setting.
Carnival Breeze’s inaugural European season kicked off June 3 and runs through October 25, 2012, providing guests with myriad opportunities to experience and explore stunning and beautiful ports in Italy, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, France, Spain, and Monte Carlo.
The wide-ranging excursions provide Carnival Breeze guests with a seemingly endless variety of unforgettable landside experiences, from guided tours of famous museums and centuries-old architectural marvels to touring the lush European countryside and savoring local cuisine and wine. Guests can also enjoy more active pursuits such as exploring dormant volcanoes, cycling or kayaking along a beautiful coastline.
Here’s a sampling of some of the many exciting tours available:
Three Island Yacht Cruise (Dubrovnik, Croatia) -- Island hopping has never been so much fun! On this five-hour excursion, guests can explore the stunning Elaphati Islands – Lokrum, Kolocep, and Lopud – while sipping chilled wine aboard a luxury yacht. The islands have a rich history – legend has it that Richard the Lion Heart was cast ashore here in 1192 after surviving a shipwreck while returning from the Crusades. The day begins with a visit to Lokrum Island, where guests can tour a 12th century monastery built by Benedictine monks, while Kolocep, the smallest of the Elaphiti islands, is distinguished by 15th century mansions, vineyards and olive groves. Concluding the tour is a stop at Lopud where guests can swim, stroll along the promenade, or savor local Croatian delicacies.
Essence of Tuscany (Livorno, Italy) - Guests can create their own “Under the Tuscan Sun” experience visiting the magnificent town of San Gimignano, the stunning backdrop for the popular book and movie about the fabled city which is distinguished by the "Manhattan of Tuscany," a skyline dotted with towers dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries. After enjoying a traditional Italian meal in a nearby farmhouse, guests explore Siena, amazingly rich in masterpieces of art and nestled atop three hills with ancient structures such as the Torre del Mangia bell tower rising more than 300 feet high and Duomo of Siena and the Battistero, both adorned with a variety of frescoes, sculptures and painting masterpieces created by some of the country’s most famous artists.
Mt. Etna at 2,900 Feet (Messina, Italy) - On this seven-and-a-half-hour excursion, guests are taken to Europe's largest active volcano where they can tour Mt. Etna's famous Silvestri Crater located 2,000 feet above sea level. From there, guests board a six-person cable car for the journey down into the crater before embarking on a 4 x 4 Mercedes ride to reach the ultimate peak at an awe-inspiring 2,900 feet above sea level. Following an exhilarating off-road adventure, guests are taken on a guided tour where they are provided a detailed overview of Mt. Etna’s history followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Secrets of Naples (Naples, Italy) – During this five-hour journey, guests can stroll along the narrow streets of the Spacca-Napoli quarter, full of life with boutiques specializing in antiques and books, tiny grocery stores and fruit stands. The day continues with a visit to San Domenico Square and its namesake church, and an exploration of the underground caves of Naples, home to the ancient Roman Aqueducts. No visit to Naples is complete without a sampling of the city’s famous pizza and guests will learn how to prepare the delicious pies using traditional wood-burning ovens.
Vatican Gardens, St. Peter’s & Rome (Civitavecchia, Italy) -- The amazing Vatican Gardens and the beauty of Rome are on full display during this private 10-hour tour, which also includes a typical Italian lunch. After arriving in breathtaking St. Peter’s Square, guests enter Vatican City through the gate of St. Uffizio Square where they enjoy panoramic views of its magnificent gardens and enchanting fountains before touring St. Peter’s Basilica. The day concludes with a tour of Roman highlights such as the Spanish Steps, Navona Square, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Carnival Breeze’s inaugural European season kicked off June 3 and runs through October 25, 2012, providing guests with myriad opportunities to experience and explore stunning and beautiful ports in Italy, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, France, Spain, and Monte Carlo.
The wide-ranging excursions provide Carnival Breeze guests with a seemingly endless variety of unforgettable landside experiences, from guided tours of famous museums and centuries-old architectural marvels to touring the lush European countryside and savoring local cuisine and wine. Guests can also enjoy more active pursuits such as exploring dormant volcanoes, cycling or kayaking along a beautiful coastline.
Here’s a sampling of some of the many exciting tours available:
Three Island Yacht Cruise (Dubrovnik, Croatia) -- Island hopping has never been so much fun! On this five-hour excursion, guests can explore the stunning Elaphati Islands – Lokrum, Kolocep, and Lopud – while sipping chilled wine aboard a luxury yacht. The islands have a rich history – legend has it that Richard the Lion Heart was cast ashore here in 1192 after surviving a shipwreck while returning from the Crusades. The day begins with a visit to Lokrum Island, where guests can tour a 12th century monastery built by Benedictine monks, while Kolocep, the smallest of the Elaphiti islands, is distinguished by 15th century mansions, vineyards and olive groves. Concluding the tour is a stop at Lopud where guests can swim, stroll along the promenade, or savor local Croatian delicacies.
Essence of Tuscany (Livorno, Italy) - Guests can create their own “Under the Tuscan Sun” experience visiting the magnificent town of San Gimignano, the stunning backdrop for the popular book and movie about the fabled city which is distinguished by the "Manhattan of Tuscany," a skyline dotted with towers dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries. After enjoying a traditional Italian meal in a nearby farmhouse, guests explore Siena, amazingly rich in masterpieces of art and nestled atop three hills with ancient structures such as the Torre del Mangia bell tower rising more than 300 feet high and Duomo of Siena and the Battistero, both adorned with a variety of frescoes, sculptures and painting masterpieces created by some of the country’s most famous artists.
Mt. Etna at 2,900 Feet (Messina, Italy) - On this seven-and-a-half-hour excursion, guests are taken to Europe's largest active volcano where they can tour Mt. Etna's famous Silvestri Crater located 2,000 feet above sea level. From there, guests board a six-person cable car for the journey down into the crater before embarking on a 4 x 4 Mercedes ride to reach the ultimate peak at an awe-inspiring 2,900 feet above sea level. Following an exhilarating off-road adventure, guests are taken on a guided tour where they are provided a detailed overview of Mt. Etna’s history followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Secrets of Naples (Naples, Italy) – During this five-hour journey, guests can stroll along the narrow streets of the Spacca-Napoli quarter, full of life with boutiques specializing in antiques and books, tiny grocery stores and fruit stands. The day continues with a visit to San Domenico Square and its namesake church, and an exploration of the underground caves of Naples, home to the ancient Roman Aqueducts. No visit to Naples is complete without a sampling of the city’s famous pizza and guests will learn how to prepare the delicious pies using traditional wood-burning ovens.
Vatican Gardens, St. Peter’s & Rome (Civitavecchia, Italy) -- The amazing Vatican Gardens and the beauty of Rome are on full display during this private 10-hour tour, which also includes a typical Italian lunch. After arriving in breathtaking St. Peter’s Square, guests enter Vatican City through the gate of St. Uffizio Square where they enjoy panoramic views of its magnificent gardens and enchanting fountains before touring St. Peter’s Basilica. The day concludes with a tour of Roman highlights such as the Spanish Steps, Navona Square, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Norwegian Cruise Line - limited time offer
Norwegian Cruise Line is launching a “Freestyle Dash” limited time offer today, between Tuesday, 22nd May & Friday 25th May, 2012. Available fleet-wide, this offer provides guests the opportunity to save on any of Norwegian’s cruise vacations to popular destinations around the world, including Europe, Alaska, Bermuda, Hawaii, Bahamas & Florida, the Caribbean, and Canada & New England.
Guests who book a Norwegian Cruise vacation by Friday, May 25, 2012, will receive up to $250 per stateroom to spend on board (based on cruise length and stateroom category), to pamper themselves in Norwegian’s award-winning spas; treat themselves to dinner in one of the line’s many delicious specialty restaurants or towards exciting shore excursions in amazing ports of call.
The offer, available for just four days, also provides reduced deposits on all of Norwegian’s sailings of three days or longer. In addition, there is up to a $500 air credit offer available on select sailings to Europe, Alaska and Bermuda.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Guests who book a Norwegian Cruise vacation by Friday, May 25, 2012, will receive up to $250 per stateroom to spend on board (based on cruise length and stateroom category), to pamper themselves in Norwegian’s award-winning spas; treat themselves to dinner in one of the line’s many delicious specialty restaurants or towards exciting shore excursions in amazing ports of call.
The offer, available for just four days, also provides reduced deposits on all of Norwegian’s sailings of three days or longer. In addition, there is up to a $500 air credit offer available on select sailings to Europe, Alaska and Bermuda.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
Brilliance of the Seas for Tampa
The Tampa Port Authority welcomed today’s announcement by Royal Caribbean International of its plans to replace its current cruise ship serving Tampa, Jewel of the Seas, with Brilliance of the Seas beginning with the 2013-2014 season. Both belong to the Radiance Class of ships, with 2,112 passenger capacity.
In May 2013, before Brilliance of the Seas is deployed to Tampa, she will enter dry dock to undergo a major revitalization as part of Royal Caribbean's Royal Advantage program, and re-emerge almost as if she were a new ship. This will involve introducing the highest guest-rated features from its award-winning Oasis Class of ships, to include a greater variety of new onboard dining and entertainment options, revitalized staterooms, and many other amenities including pervasive Wi-Fi, digital way-finding systems and an outdoor LED video wall.
Vacationers can choose four- and five-night Western Caribbean itineraries aboard Brilliance of the Seas, sailing round-trip from Tampa and calling at Cozumel, Mexico on the four-night, and George Town, Cayman Islands and Cozumel on the five-night cruises. Aboard select five-night sailings, guests call at Key West, Fla., instead of George Town. Vacationers also can select a 13-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, departing on Oct. 27 from Boston, Mass. to Tampa. These sailing will open for sale on Thursday, May 17.
“We look forward to welcoming Brilliance of the Seas to Tampa and believe the ship’s exciting new features will create a fresh buzz in Tampa’s robust cruise market and with the travel agent community,” Richard Wainio, port director and chief executive, said.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
In May 2013, before Brilliance of the Seas is deployed to Tampa, she will enter dry dock to undergo a major revitalization as part of Royal Caribbean's Royal Advantage program, and re-emerge almost as if she were a new ship. This will involve introducing the highest guest-rated features from its award-winning Oasis Class of ships, to include a greater variety of new onboard dining and entertainment options, revitalized staterooms, and many other amenities including pervasive Wi-Fi, digital way-finding systems and an outdoor LED video wall.
Vacationers can choose four- and five-night Western Caribbean itineraries aboard Brilliance of the Seas, sailing round-trip from Tampa and calling at Cozumel, Mexico on the four-night, and George Town, Cayman Islands and Cozumel on the five-night cruises. Aboard select five-night sailings, guests call at Key West, Fla., instead of George Town. Vacationers also can select a 13-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, departing on Oct. 27 from Boston, Mass. to Tampa. These sailing will open for sale on Thursday, May 17.
“We look forward to welcoming Brilliance of the Seas to Tampa and believe the ship’s exciting new features will create a fresh buzz in Tampa’s robust cruise market and with the travel agent community,” Richard Wainio, port director and chief executive, said.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
Costa to Double Asia Capacity in 2013
Encouraged by the positive response to its Asia cruises, Costa Cruises, plans to position a second cruise ship in the region in May 2013. So far, the company operated the 1,680-guest Costa Classica in Asia, and the deployment of two larger ships will mean a combined daily guest capacity of 5,074.
The 75,200-ton, 2,394-guest Costa Victoria is slated to start operations in Asia May 17, 2012, from Shanghai. In May 2013 the 85,700-ton, 2,680- guest Costa Atlantica, a wonderful ship dedicated to Italian cinema and arts, also will be deployed cruises in Asia.
With the debut of Costa Victoria in May 2012 and Costa Atlantica in May 2013, Costa Cruises will offer a unique product for the Asian market called “Italy at Sea,” with Italian-style hospitality, design, shopping, art and cuisine.
The double positioning of Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will further expand the number of Costa’s Italian Style inspired cruises, with a 90 percent increase in the offering.
“Since 2006 when Costa Cruises started to market its cruise product in Asia, we have further strengthened and tailored our product to our local clients’ needs and wishes,” said Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere S.p.A. “The successful results we have obtained until now are encouraging our Company to further expand in the region. Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will bring a piece of ‘Italy at sea’ to Asia as Costa has successfully done in all other countries, throughout its 64 years of history."
As the first international cruise company to enter the Chinese market, Costa has become one of the best recognized and most popular tourism brands in Asia. Since the company began operations in Asia, Costa has carried more than 350,000 Guests in the region.
Costa Victoria and Costa Atlantica will offer a variety of short and longer itineraries departing from Singapore, Shanghai, Tianjin and Hong Kong that should appeal to both Asians and Europeans.
Costa Atlantica’s interior design celebrates Italian cinema and the arts: Fellini and La Dolce Vita, Madame Butterfly, the historic Caffè Florian in Venice, Via della Spiga, the 18th-century Tiziano Restaurant. The ship has 1,057 cabins, including 54 suites with private balcony, 620 cabins with private balcony and 40 Wellness cabins and four Wellness suites, with exclusive furnishings and maximum comfort, offering a customized spa experience.
From May to June 2013 Costa Atlantica will depart from Singapore on seven-day cruises to Malaysia and Thailand, and on three- or four-day cruises to Malaysia. The three itineraries also can be booked together as a 14-day itinerary, including Kuantan (Malaysia), Laem Chabang/Bangkok (Thailand), Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), Port Klang (Malaysia), Malacca (Malaysia). From June through October 2013, Costa Atlantica will depart form Shanghai on short cruises to South Korea and Japan, calling at Cheju (South Korea), Pusan (South Korea), Fukuoka (Japan), Hososhima (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan).
Costa Victoria will debut in the region at Shanghai May 17, 2012, replacing Costa Classica. Costa Victoria will offer, for the first time, 246 cabins with balconies, enabling Guests to enjoy the splendid scenery of Asia from the privacy of their own cabins. Costa Victoria is furnished and designed in an Italian, elegant style, and each deck is named after an Italian opera. The Spa pool was inspired by the splendor of Pompeii and the Capricco Bar is tiled with the Italian artist Emilio Tadini’s mosaics. The natural beauty of the ocean can be savored by walking along the panoramic walks on either side of the ship on deck 12. Costa Victoria also will debut its unique on-board designer boutique concept, selling top brands at duty-free prices.
From May to October 2012 Costa Victoria will offer short cruises and seven-day cruises to Japan and South Korea from Shanghai, calling at Cheju (South Korea), Yeosu (South Korea), Fukuoka (Japan), Osaka (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan), Wakayama (Japan), Hososhima (Japan). From November 2012 to January 2013 the ship will be based in Singapore to offer seven-day cruises to Malaysia and Thailand, and three- or four-day cruises to Malaysia. The three itineraries can be combined into a 14-day cruise, including Kuantan (Malaysia), Laem Chabang/Bangkok (Thailand), Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), Port Klang (Malaysia), Malacca (Malaysia).
Until October 2013 Costa Victoria will depart from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tianjin for short cruises to Taiwan or South Korea, Japan and Vietnam, with calls at Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Da-Nang (Vietnam), Haling Bay (Vietnam), Sanya (China), Keelung (Taiwan), Taichung (Taiwan), Fukuoka (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan), Cheju (South Korea), Pusan (South Korea).
Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will be supported in China by Costa Crociere’s WOFE. In November 2011 Costa established the cruise industry’s first wholly owned foreign enterprise (WOFE) in China.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you
The 75,200-ton, 2,394-guest Costa Victoria is slated to start operations in Asia May 17, 2012, from Shanghai. In May 2013 the 85,700-ton, 2,680- guest Costa Atlantica, a wonderful ship dedicated to Italian cinema and arts, also will be deployed cruises in Asia.
With the debut of Costa Victoria in May 2012 and Costa Atlantica in May 2013, Costa Cruises will offer a unique product for the Asian market called “Italy at Sea,” with Italian-style hospitality, design, shopping, art and cuisine.
The double positioning of Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will further expand the number of Costa’s Italian Style inspired cruises, with a 90 percent increase in the offering.
“Since 2006 when Costa Cruises started to market its cruise product in Asia, we have further strengthened and tailored our product to our local clients’ needs and wishes,” said Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere S.p.A. “The successful results we have obtained until now are encouraging our Company to further expand in the region. Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will bring a piece of ‘Italy at sea’ to Asia as Costa has successfully done in all other countries, throughout its 64 years of history."
As the first international cruise company to enter the Chinese market, Costa has become one of the best recognized and most popular tourism brands in Asia. Since the company began operations in Asia, Costa has carried more than 350,000 Guests in the region.
Costa Victoria and Costa Atlantica will offer a variety of short and longer itineraries departing from Singapore, Shanghai, Tianjin and Hong Kong that should appeal to both Asians and Europeans.
Costa Atlantica’s interior design celebrates Italian cinema and the arts: Fellini and La Dolce Vita, Madame Butterfly, the historic Caffè Florian in Venice, Via della Spiga, the 18th-century Tiziano Restaurant. The ship has 1,057 cabins, including 54 suites with private balcony, 620 cabins with private balcony and 40 Wellness cabins and four Wellness suites, with exclusive furnishings and maximum comfort, offering a customized spa experience.
From May to June 2013 Costa Atlantica will depart from Singapore on seven-day cruises to Malaysia and Thailand, and on three- or four-day cruises to Malaysia. The three itineraries also can be booked together as a 14-day itinerary, including Kuantan (Malaysia), Laem Chabang/Bangkok (Thailand), Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), Port Klang (Malaysia), Malacca (Malaysia). From June through October 2013, Costa Atlantica will depart form Shanghai on short cruises to South Korea and Japan, calling at Cheju (South Korea), Pusan (South Korea), Fukuoka (Japan), Hososhima (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan).
Costa Victoria will debut in the region at Shanghai May 17, 2012, replacing Costa Classica. Costa Victoria will offer, for the first time, 246 cabins with balconies, enabling Guests to enjoy the splendid scenery of Asia from the privacy of their own cabins. Costa Victoria is furnished and designed in an Italian, elegant style, and each deck is named after an Italian opera. The Spa pool was inspired by the splendor of Pompeii and the Capricco Bar is tiled with the Italian artist Emilio Tadini’s mosaics. The natural beauty of the ocean can be savored by walking along the panoramic walks on either side of the ship on deck 12. Costa Victoria also will debut its unique on-board designer boutique concept, selling top brands at duty-free prices.
From May to October 2012 Costa Victoria will offer short cruises and seven-day cruises to Japan and South Korea from Shanghai, calling at Cheju (South Korea), Yeosu (South Korea), Fukuoka (Japan), Osaka (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan), Wakayama (Japan), Hososhima (Japan). From November 2012 to January 2013 the ship will be based in Singapore to offer seven-day cruises to Malaysia and Thailand, and three- or four-day cruises to Malaysia. The three itineraries can be combined into a 14-day cruise, including Kuantan (Malaysia), Laem Chabang/Bangkok (Thailand), Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), Port Klang (Malaysia), Malacca (Malaysia).
Until October 2013 Costa Victoria will depart from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tianjin for short cruises to Taiwan or South Korea, Japan and Vietnam, with calls at Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Da-Nang (Vietnam), Haling Bay (Vietnam), Sanya (China), Keelung (Taiwan), Taichung (Taiwan), Fukuoka (Japan), Kagoshima (Japan), Cheju (South Korea), Pusan (South Korea).
Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria will be supported in China by Costa Crociere’s WOFE. In November 2011 Costa established the cruise industry’s first wholly owned foreign enterprise (WOFE) in China.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you
Tuesday, 27 March 2012
Cruise Ship Holidays and Costa Concordia
Why choose a cruise holiday?
Following the Costa Concordia disaster, new safety procedures have been introduced to cruise ships. But what does this mean for the cruise industry?
On the 13th January the Italian cruise ship, Costa Concordia, partially sank after hitting a reef off the Tuscan coast. More than 4,200 people had to be evacuated and since then, the ship has lain submerged as experts attempt to remove the 500,000 gallons of fuel on board.
The sunken vessel can only begin to be removed when all the fuel has been taken off, but this could take up to a month.
The ship will then be removed either by floating it in one piece or cutting it up and towing it away as a wreck - an operation that could take up to ten months.
So, in the wake of this disaster, how has the cruise industry reacted?
Following a review of safety procedures the Cruise Lines International Association, European Cruise Council and Passenger Shipping Association announced that cruise holidaymakers will now need to take part in pre-departure safety drills.
This should help ensure that all passengers know what to do and where to go in the event of an incident while on board.
So as peak booking time approaches and in light of these new safety regulations, why choose a cruise holiday?
Value for money: You pay one price and your accommodation, food, drink and entertainment is all included.
Variety: With hundreds of ships and thousands of ports to choose from, there's a cruise to suit everyone.
Destinations: If you've only got limited time for a holiday, a cruise is the best way to see several destinations in one go.
Great for families: Many cruise ships are geared up for families with kid's clubs and activities to keep your little ones entertained.
Activities: These days cruise ships have every activity you can think of and more - from sports, lectures and dancing to music, gaming and of course, sunbathing.
Protecting your holiday:
If you do decide to embark on a cruise holiday, it's important to make sure you have the right travel insurance in place to protect you.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Following the Costa Concordia disaster, new safety procedures have been introduced to cruise ships. But what does this mean for the cruise industry?
On the 13th January the Italian cruise ship, Costa Concordia, partially sank after hitting a reef off the Tuscan coast. More than 4,200 people had to be evacuated and since then, the ship has lain submerged as experts attempt to remove the 500,000 gallons of fuel on board.
The sunken vessel can only begin to be removed when all the fuel has been taken off, but this could take up to a month.
The ship will then be removed either by floating it in one piece or cutting it up and towing it away as a wreck - an operation that could take up to ten months.
So, in the wake of this disaster, how has the cruise industry reacted?
Following a review of safety procedures the Cruise Lines International Association, European Cruise Council and Passenger Shipping Association announced that cruise holidaymakers will now need to take part in pre-departure safety drills.
This should help ensure that all passengers know what to do and where to go in the event of an incident while on board.
So as peak booking time approaches and in light of these new safety regulations, why choose a cruise holiday?
Value for money: You pay one price and your accommodation, food, drink and entertainment is all included.
Variety: With hundreds of ships and thousands of ports to choose from, there's a cruise to suit everyone.
Destinations: If you've only got limited time for a holiday, a cruise is the best way to see several destinations in one go.
Great for families: Many cruise ships are geared up for families with kid's clubs and activities to keep your little ones entertained.
Activities: These days cruise ships have every activity you can think of and more - from sports, lectures and dancing to music, gaming and of course, sunbathing.
Protecting your holiday:
If you do decide to embark on a cruise holiday, it's important to make sure you have the right travel insurance in place to protect you.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday, 26 March 2012
Delayed Launch for Refurbished Saga Sapphire
Multi-million-pound refurbishments are complicated affairs, and they become even more complex when your workforce goes on strike. To that end, Saga Cruises announced today that the arrival of its newest ship, Saga Sapphire, will be delayed, as will the ship's departure on its inaugural cruise to Venice.
Sapphire, which is en route to Southampton now, faced interruptions during a nearly four-month refurbishment in the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Italy, when workers participated in a national strike action.
The ship is expected to arrive in Southampton on Monday (26/03/2012), when it was originally scheduled to depart for Venice and will leave on a shortened cruise a week later (Monday, 2 April). During the weeklong stay in the U.K., the ship “will need to be loaded with provisions, and items such as furniture need to be loaded and installed,” said a company spokesman.
A 23-night inaugural cruise, which was scheduled to visit Mediterranean ports in Spain, Italy, Malta, Croatia, Greece, Gibraltar and Portugal, has now been shortened to 16 nights. The line has not made clear what stops the revised itinerary includes, saying only, “We have tried to keep as much of the original cruise as possible and minimise the disruption.”
The spokesperson commented that all passengers on the disrupted cruise have been contacted, and offered either a pro-rated refund for the missed portion of the cruise, alternative accommodation on another cruise, or the option to cancel and receive a full refund.
The makeover included the addition of 46 balconies to cabins on Deck 8, new restaurants and a "View From the Top" outdoor cinema. Also, cabins have been updated, several public areas have been redesigned, and the line is introducing iPads and onboard Wi-Fi connectivity.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Sapphire, which is en route to Southampton now, faced interruptions during a nearly four-month refurbishment in the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Italy, when workers participated in a national strike action.
The ship is expected to arrive in Southampton on Monday (26/03/2012), when it was originally scheduled to depart for Venice and will leave on a shortened cruise a week later (Monday, 2 April). During the weeklong stay in the U.K., the ship “will need to be loaded with provisions, and items such as furniture need to be loaded and installed,” said a company spokesman.
A 23-night inaugural cruise, which was scheduled to visit Mediterranean ports in Spain, Italy, Malta, Croatia, Greece, Gibraltar and Portugal, has now been shortened to 16 nights. The line has not made clear what stops the revised itinerary includes, saying only, “We have tried to keep as much of the original cruise as possible and minimise the disruption.”
The spokesperson commented that all passengers on the disrupted cruise have been contacted, and offered either a pro-rated refund for the missed portion of the cruise, alternative accommodation on another cruise, or the option to cancel and receive a full refund.
The makeover included the addition of 46 balconies to cabins on Deck 8, new restaurants and a "View From the Top" outdoor cinema. Also, cabins have been updated, several public areas have been redesigned, and the line is introducing iPads and onboard Wi-Fi connectivity.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 23 March 2012
Royal Caribbean to Send Monarch of the Seas to Pullmantur
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has announced the transfer of Monarch of the Seas from its Royal Caribbean International cruise brand to its Pullmantur brand, a cruise and tour operator based in Madrid. Monarch of the Seas will transfer to Pullmantur on April 1, 2013, following its last sailing for Royal Caribbean International, which departs on March 29, 2013.
"We are very proud of Monarch of the Seas for delivering great service and outstanding destinations to vacationers since her maiden voyage," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. "She will go on creating wonderful travel memories through her final sailings for our brand through next March and then continue doing the same for Pullmantur's guests."
With the incorporation of Monarch of the Seas, Pullmantur will increase its total guest capacity by nearly 25 percent and meet a rising demand for the brand's distinctive All Inclusive-style cruise holidays. "The transfer of Monarch of the Seas will reinforce Pullmantur in our Latin American growth strategy, and help us become one of the most widely recognized brands," said Pullmantur's President and CEO, Gonzalo Chico Barbier.
Monarch of the Seas was built at Chantiers de L'Atlantique (now STX France) in St. Nazaire, France and sailed its maiden voyage on November 17, 1991. The ship is part of the Sovereign class of cruise ships, which were the world's largest and most innovative of their time. Pullmantur is the leading Spanish Tour Operator and Cruise Company, founded in 1971, and famous for introducing the 'All Inclusive' concept to cruising. Pullmantur is leader of the cruise market in Spain and Portugal, currently operating a modern fleet of four vessels, with a daily passenger capacity of 9,000, cruising worldwide, and calling on approximately 100 destinations.
The company offers a unique door-to-door flight service, operated by its in-house air travel division with a fleet of four Boeing 747-400. Pullmantur Air provides charter flights to the European Cruise Port Embarkations and long-haul flights between Spain and the Caribbean Sea for the company's tour-operation division. Spain based Pullmantur, operates through satellite offices in Brasil, Mexico, Portugal and France.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand.
Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming. The cruise line has a 40-year history of giving guests the Royal Advantage – the most innovative cruise ships, exciting itineraries to popular destinations, and world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean has been voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for nine consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers' Choice Awards.
Royal Caribbean International and Pullmantur are part of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL), a global cruise vacation company that also operates Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, CDF Croisieres de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 percent joint venture with TUI AG. The company owns a combined total of 40 ships and has one under construction and two under agreement.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
"We are very proud of Monarch of the Seas for delivering great service and outstanding destinations to vacationers since her maiden voyage," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. "She will go on creating wonderful travel memories through her final sailings for our brand through next March and then continue doing the same for Pullmantur's guests."
With the incorporation of Monarch of the Seas, Pullmantur will increase its total guest capacity by nearly 25 percent and meet a rising demand for the brand's distinctive All Inclusive-style cruise holidays. "The transfer of Monarch of the Seas will reinforce Pullmantur in our Latin American growth strategy, and help us become one of the most widely recognized brands," said Pullmantur's President and CEO, Gonzalo Chico Barbier.
Monarch of the Seas was built at Chantiers de L'Atlantique (now STX France) in St. Nazaire, France and sailed its maiden voyage on November 17, 1991. The ship is part of the Sovereign class of cruise ships, which were the world's largest and most innovative of their time. Pullmantur is the leading Spanish Tour Operator and Cruise Company, founded in 1971, and famous for introducing the 'All Inclusive' concept to cruising. Pullmantur is leader of the cruise market in Spain and Portugal, currently operating a modern fleet of four vessels, with a daily passenger capacity of 9,000, cruising worldwide, and calling on approximately 100 destinations.
The company offers a unique door-to-door flight service, operated by its in-house air travel division with a fleet of four Boeing 747-400. Pullmantur Air provides charter flights to the European Cruise Port Embarkations and long-haul flights between Spain and the Caribbean Sea for the company's tour-operation division. Spain based Pullmantur, operates through satellite offices in Brasil, Mexico, Portugal and France.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand currently with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand.
Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming. The cruise line has a 40-year history of giving guests the Royal Advantage – the most innovative cruise ships, exciting itineraries to popular destinations, and world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean has been voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for nine consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers' Choice Awards.
Royal Caribbean International and Pullmantur are part of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL), a global cruise vacation company that also operates Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, CDF Croisieres de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 percent joint venture with TUI AG. The company owns a combined total of 40 ships and has one under construction and two under agreement.
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