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.
Showing posts with label Cruise Holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cruise Holidays. Show all posts
Friday, 10 August 2012
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.
Tuesday, 26 June 2012
How to take a mini-cruise
Small and perfectly formed: From sail ships to luxury yachts
In an age in which every new cruise liner seems bigger than the last, it's reassuring to find there are some ships that still resemble ocean-going vessels rather than floating hotels.
Perhaps the most romantic are masted sailing yachts, which offer the charms of a relaxed, intimate atmosphere and the ability to moor in small harbours or drop anchor in secluded coves.
And what could be more thrilling than standing on deck looking up at billowing white sails... knowing you are never going to have to climb the rigging yourself? If you prefer - and if you have the budget - you can even experience the luxury of a super-yacht worthy of an oligarch in the Mediterranean.
Here is a variety of suggestions for those who want to sail away from the crowds...
Budding sea dogs might want to sail the Med on Star Clippers' five-masted Royal Clipper, where you can volunteer to help hoist the sails or climb a mast. A four-night cruise from Civitavecchia, the port that serves Rome, takes you to Corsica to moor overnight, Sardinia's Costa Smeralda and finally to Elba, where Napoleon was briefly held captive.
Travel is by Eurostar and sleeper train via Paris. The cost for departure on June 5 is from £1,319 per person (0845 200 6145, www.starclippers.co.uk).
On the three yachts of Windstar Cruises, there's no need for anyone - crew or passengers - to climb the rigging: the sails are fully automated. The sleek part-yacht, part-cruise ships have a casual dress code and the mood is laid-back luxury.
Wind Star - one of the two smaller vessels, with just 74 cabins - has a six-night cruise from Rome to Barcelona departing on July 15, costing from £2,859pp, including flights. You'll call at Elba, Porto Vecchio in Corsica, Alghero in Sardinia and Palma de Mallorca.
Alternatively, you can head to the Baltic Sea on the magnificent, five-masted Wind Surf, one of the two largest sail cruise ships in the world, on a week's cruise from Oslo to Stockholm leaving July 27.
It stays overnight at Copenhagen and calls at Rugen in Germany - where you can see spectacular white chalk cliffs that flank one of the two national parks, and also the Danish island of Bornholm, with its dramatic landscapes and historic buildings. The cost is from £2,294pp including flights (020 7292 2369, www.windstarcruises.co.uk).
Built as the identical twin to Wind Surf, Club Med 2 sails on a variety of itineraries around the Eastern Mediterranean for the French holiday company. A seven-night cruise from Bodrum to Athens costs from £2,959pp, including flights (0845 367 0670, www.clubmed.co.uk).
A French option for lovers of Gallic chic is the Compagnie de Ponant fleet. Le Ponant is a three-masted sailing yacht for 64 passengers. The company also operates L'Austral, a new ultra-smart super-yacht launched last year. It has 132 cabins and suites.
A week aboard Le Ponant sailing from Nice on July 7 to St Tropez and western Corsica costs from £2,460pp, and a ten-night cruise on L'Austral from Venice to Croatia and Montenegro sailing on August 10 is from £2,780pp.
The price includes €150 (£122) per person onboard credit, but not flights (020 7399 7670, www.mundycruising.co.uk).
On glamorous twin mega-yachts SeaDream I and II, there are plenty of attractions to lure you out of your luxury cabins. In the evening you can go to sleep on deck in a 'Balinese dream bed'.
SeaDream say their itineraries visit the intimate ports, harbours and yachting playgrounds larger ships cannot reach.
A week sailing from Dubrovnik to Venice on SeaDream I, departing August 4, is from £4,070pp including tips, open bar and flights when booked with Azure Collection (01244 322770, www.azurecollection.com).
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
In an age in which every new cruise liner seems bigger than the last, it's reassuring to find there are some ships that still resemble ocean-going vessels rather than floating hotels.
Perhaps the most romantic are masted sailing yachts, which offer the charms of a relaxed, intimate atmosphere and the ability to moor in small harbours or drop anchor in secluded coves.
And what could be more thrilling than standing on deck looking up at billowing white sails... knowing you are never going to have to climb the rigging yourself? If you prefer - and if you have the budget - you can even experience the luxury of a super-yacht worthy of an oligarch in the Mediterranean.
Here is a variety of suggestions for those who want to sail away from the crowds...
Budding sea dogs might want to sail the Med on Star Clippers' five-masted Royal Clipper, where you can volunteer to help hoist the sails or climb a mast. A four-night cruise from Civitavecchia, the port that serves Rome, takes you to Corsica to moor overnight, Sardinia's Costa Smeralda and finally to Elba, where Napoleon was briefly held captive.
Travel is by Eurostar and sleeper train via Paris. The cost for departure on June 5 is from £1,319 per person (0845 200 6145, www.starclippers.co.uk).
On the three yachts of Windstar Cruises, there's no need for anyone - crew or passengers - to climb the rigging: the sails are fully automated. The sleek part-yacht, part-cruise ships have a casual dress code and the mood is laid-back luxury.
Wind Star - one of the two smaller vessels, with just 74 cabins - has a six-night cruise from Rome to Barcelona departing on July 15, costing from £2,859pp, including flights. You'll call at Elba, Porto Vecchio in Corsica, Alghero in Sardinia and Palma de Mallorca.
Alternatively, you can head to the Baltic Sea on the magnificent, five-masted Wind Surf, one of the two largest sail cruise ships in the world, on a week's cruise from Oslo to Stockholm leaving July 27.
It stays overnight at Copenhagen and calls at Rugen in Germany - where you can see spectacular white chalk cliffs that flank one of the two national parks, and also the Danish island of Bornholm, with its dramatic landscapes and historic buildings. The cost is from £2,294pp including flights (020 7292 2369, www.windstarcruises.co.uk).
Built as the identical twin to Wind Surf, Club Med 2 sails on a variety of itineraries around the Eastern Mediterranean for the French holiday company. A seven-night cruise from Bodrum to Athens costs from £2,959pp, including flights (0845 367 0670, www.clubmed.co.uk).
A French option for lovers of Gallic chic is the Compagnie de Ponant fleet. Le Ponant is a three-masted sailing yacht for 64 passengers. The company also operates L'Austral, a new ultra-smart super-yacht launched last year. It has 132 cabins and suites.
A week aboard Le Ponant sailing from Nice on July 7 to St Tropez and western Corsica costs from £2,460pp, and a ten-night cruise on L'Austral from Venice to Croatia and Montenegro sailing on August 10 is from £2,780pp.
The price includes €150 (£122) per person onboard credit, but not flights (020 7399 7670, www.mundycruising.co.uk).
On glamorous twin mega-yachts SeaDream I and II, there are plenty of attractions to lure you out of your luxury cabins. In the evening you can go to sleep on deck in a 'Balinese dream bed'.
SeaDream say their itineraries visit the intimate ports, harbours and yachting playgrounds larger ships cannot reach.
A week sailing from Dubrovnik to Venice on SeaDream I, departing August 4, is from £4,070pp including tips, open bar and flights when booked with Azure Collection (01244 322770, www.azurecollection.com).
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Thursday, 31 May 2012
Disney Wonder Offering Special Pixar Cruises This Autumn
A new cast of characters will stroll the decks and visit with guests aboard the Disney Wonder as Mr. Incredible, Remy, Woody, Jessie, Buzz Lightyear and other memorable characters from Pixar Animation Studios’ award-winning films make their shipboard debut during four special Pixar-inspired seven-night California Coastal cruises Sept. 16 through Oct. 14, 2012.
During these voyages, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to interact with and explore the world of Pixar and their beloved films while the Disney Wonder sails to popular port cities along the coast of California. Special entertainment and offerings designed for both children and adults include:
Pixar Presentations and Sneak Peeks: Artists and filmmakers from Pixar Animation Studios will provide guests with an inside look at the creative process used in the development of an animated feature or short. Guests will go behind the scenes and explore the making of Pixar’s newest release “Brave” and get a look at footage of future Pixar films.
The Art of Pixar: Storyboards, character sketches, environment paintings, maquettes and other inspiring concept art used to design Pixar films will be on display in a special art exhibition at sea. This collection of art has only been seen outside of Pixar Animation Studios when it has been displayed at leading art museums around the world. This time the art will truly be a “traveling” exhibition as the Disney Wonder sails up and down the California coast.
Pixar Film Fest: Guests will be able to enjoy the entire Pixar library of films while onboard, including a selection of delightful animated shorts. Viewing opportunities will take place in the Buena Vista Theatre, Walt Disney Theatre, at the jumbo LED screen on deck or on in-stateroom televisions. The voyages coincide with the theatrical premiere of “Finding Nemo 3D,” which guests can enjoy at either of the two theatres equipped with state-of-the-art Dolby 3D projection systems.
Pixar Character Encounters: More than a dozen Pixar characters will meet with and greet guests throughout the cruise. There will be a special Pixar-themed dance parties in the Atrium Lobby and a host of other opportunities for guests to reconnect with their favorite Pixar pals.
Guests sailing on the Pixar-themed voyages will also receive a commemorative lithograph created by Pixar artist and “Brave” co-director/screenwriter, Steve Purcell.
The Disney Wonder will sail out of Los Angeles and visit San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico during the four Pixar-themed voyages. Rates for the seven-night voyages start at $799 per person for a deluxe inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
During these voyages, Disney Cruise Line guests will be able to interact with and explore the world of Pixar and their beloved films while the Disney Wonder sails to popular port cities along the coast of California. Special entertainment and offerings designed for both children and adults include:
Pixar Presentations and Sneak Peeks: Artists and filmmakers from Pixar Animation Studios will provide guests with an inside look at the creative process used in the development of an animated feature or short. Guests will go behind the scenes and explore the making of Pixar’s newest release “Brave” and get a look at footage of future Pixar films.
The Art of Pixar: Storyboards, character sketches, environment paintings, maquettes and other inspiring concept art used to design Pixar films will be on display in a special art exhibition at sea. This collection of art has only been seen outside of Pixar Animation Studios when it has been displayed at leading art museums around the world. This time the art will truly be a “traveling” exhibition as the Disney Wonder sails up and down the California coast.
Pixar Film Fest: Guests will be able to enjoy the entire Pixar library of films while onboard, including a selection of delightful animated shorts. Viewing opportunities will take place in the Buena Vista Theatre, Walt Disney Theatre, at the jumbo LED screen on deck or on in-stateroom televisions. The voyages coincide with the theatrical premiere of “Finding Nemo 3D,” which guests can enjoy at either of the two theatres equipped with state-of-the-art Dolby 3D projection systems.
Pixar Character Encounters: More than a dozen Pixar characters will meet with and greet guests throughout the cruise. There will be a special Pixar-themed dance parties in the Atrium Lobby and a host of other opportunities for guests to reconnect with their favorite Pixar pals.
Guests sailing on the Pixar-themed voyages will also receive a commemorative lithograph created by Pixar artist and “Brave” co-director/screenwriter, Steve Purcell.
The Disney Wonder will sail out of Los Angeles and visit San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico during the four Pixar-themed voyages. Rates for the seven-night voyages start at $799 per person for a deluxe inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 18 May 2012
Costa Victoria Maiden Voyage from Shanghai
Costa Cruises held a launch ceremony yesterday May 17, 2012 for the long-awaited Costa Victoria at Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal.
The event was hosted by Shanghai Baoshan People’s Government, Sinotrans & CSC Shanghai Changjiang Shipping Corporation, Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal Development Co., Ltd and Costa Crociere S.p.A. Ms. Zhao Wen, Vice Mayor of the Shanghai Municipal Government, Mr. Xue Chao, Deputy Secretary General of Shanghai Municipal Government and many members of Shanghai People’s Government and Baoshan District People’s Government were in attendance.
Renowned fashion designer, Mary Ma, considered to be China’s first international supermodel and famed for promoting Chinese fashion on the global stage, was onsite as the ship’s Godmother; an apt choice for what is Asia’s first fashion cruise.
Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal will be the home port for Costa Victoria, which will provide 33 itineraries a year, making Costa Cruises the biggest international operator at the terminal.
“We are thrilled to see Costa Victoria launch from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal” said Mr. Pier Luigi Foschi, the Chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere S.p.A. “She embodies our commitment to the China and Asian market. We were the first international cruise company authorized to operate in the China market and so it’s with great pride that I can attend today to see one of our finest cruise ships leave from this remarkable port in this spectacular city. Costa Cruises has long held a special relationship with this region and we’re pleased to confirm that next year we’ll be increasing our investments here still further.”
Costa Victoria will have a unique to-the-region onboard designer boutique concept, selling top brands at duty-free prices. The cruise will set sail on 18 May, the day after the event, when its passengers will be able to sample its varied onboard delights. There’s a large array of high-end fashion stores plus a fashion show modeling onboard wares. The boutique concept will be developed from its maiden call so passengers in the future can fully enjoy this new take on a cruising holiday.
With the explicit support and encouragement from the Chinese government Costa Cruises has been running cruises from Shanghai since 2006. At the end of this year it’s estimated that Costa will have operated more than 300 cruises and holidayed over 300,000 people from China. 300,000 happy customers - last year 98% of passengers were satisfied with their cruise. The growth of the market means that the Asia Pacific region is one of the most important for Costa Cruises, particularly the China market. It has increased its investment locally as a result, the latest embodiment of which is Costa Victoria. This marries well with the local government’s plan to boost the shipping industry and tourism in the region.
“This latest launch of Costa Victoria’s maiden voyage in China unveils the journey of Wusongkou as the main port of Shanghai,” said Ms. Wang Hong, the Chief of Baoshan District. “It becomes the first theme event of the 2012 Wusongkou Cruise Tourism Culture Festival in Shanghai."
As is common for the launching of cruise ships, the event was marked by the ship’s Godmother, Mary Ma, who won international acclaim for her unique and luxurious collections, gave her blessings and launched Costa Victoria with Mr. Foschi and the representatives of Shanghai People’s Government and Baoshan District People’s Government. Ms. Ma, Designer and Founder of Beijing Maryma Haute Couture Ltd., is widely acknowledged as China’s first contemporary supermodel and now ranks as one of China’s top designers. She has been a standard bearer for Chinese fashion on the international stage for decades and as the heart and soul of China’s fashion world she personifies Costa Victoria’s fashion theme.
The Wusongkou Cruise Tourism Culture Festival was also launched at the event. Speeches by government officials and Mr. Foschi were followed by a video display recounting the 150-year history of Costa Crociere, its recent achievements and concluding with a clip on the joy of taking a cruise holiday.
Costa Victoria will stop at several destinations in Japan including the tropical paradise Hososhima/Miyazaki, Wakayama, which boasts the largest hot spring resort, in Japan’s second largest city, Osaka, and the popular sightseeing cities in the Kanto Area Yokohama and Tokyo, the capital city. In the South Korean part of the itinerary destinations include ‘island of the Gods’ Jeju, the picturesque harbor town of Yeosu and South Korea’s second largest city, Busan.
The first voyage is a five-night itinerary that departs from Shanghai to Jeju then Fukuoka then Hososhima/Miyazaki before returning to Shanghai.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The event was hosted by Shanghai Baoshan People’s Government, Sinotrans & CSC Shanghai Changjiang Shipping Corporation, Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal Development Co., Ltd and Costa Crociere S.p.A. Ms. Zhao Wen, Vice Mayor of the Shanghai Municipal Government, Mr. Xue Chao, Deputy Secretary General of Shanghai Municipal Government and many members of Shanghai People’s Government and Baoshan District People’s Government were in attendance.
Renowned fashion designer, Mary Ma, considered to be China’s first international supermodel and famed for promoting Chinese fashion on the global stage, was onsite as the ship’s Godmother; an apt choice for what is Asia’s first fashion cruise.
Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal will be the home port for Costa Victoria, which will provide 33 itineraries a year, making Costa Cruises the biggest international operator at the terminal.
“We are thrilled to see Costa Victoria launch from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal” said Mr. Pier Luigi Foschi, the Chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere S.p.A. “She embodies our commitment to the China and Asian market. We were the first international cruise company authorized to operate in the China market and so it’s with great pride that I can attend today to see one of our finest cruise ships leave from this remarkable port in this spectacular city. Costa Cruises has long held a special relationship with this region and we’re pleased to confirm that next year we’ll be increasing our investments here still further.”
Costa Victoria will have a unique to-the-region onboard designer boutique concept, selling top brands at duty-free prices. The cruise will set sail on 18 May, the day after the event, when its passengers will be able to sample its varied onboard delights. There’s a large array of high-end fashion stores plus a fashion show modeling onboard wares. The boutique concept will be developed from its maiden call so passengers in the future can fully enjoy this new take on a cruising holiday.
With the explicit support and encouragement from the Chinese government Costa Cruises has been running cruises from Shanghai since 2006. At the end of this year it’s estimated that Costa will have operated more than 300 cruises and holidayed over 300,000 people from China. 300,000 happy customers - last year 98% of passengers were satisfied with their cruise. The growth of the market means that the Asia Pacific region is one of the most important for Costa Cruises, particularly the China market. It has increased its investment locally as a result, the latest embodiment of which is Costa Victoria. This marries well with the local government’s plan to boost the shipping industry and tourism in the region.
“This latest launch of Costa Victoria’s maiden voyage in China unveils the journey of Wusongkou as the main port of Shanghai,” said Ms. Wang Hong, the Chief of Baoshan District. “It becomes the first theme event of the 2012 Wusongkou Cruise Tourism Culture Festival in Shanghai."
As is common for the launching of cruise ships, the event was marked by the ship’s Godmother, Mary Ma, who won international acclaim for her unique and luxurious collections, gave her blessings and launched Costa Victoria with Mr. Foschi and the representatives of Shanghai People’s Government and Baoshan District People’s Government. Ms. Ma, Designer and Founder of Beijing Maryma Haute Couture Ltd., is widely acknowledged as China’s first contemporary supermodel and now ranks as one of China’s top designers. She has been a standard bearer for Chinese fashion on the international stage for decades and as the heart and soul of China’s fashion world she personifies Costa Victoria’s fashion theme.
The Wusongkou Cruise Tourism Culture Festival was also launched at the event. Speeches by government officials and Mr. Foschi were followed by a video display recounting the 150-year history of Costa Crociere, its recent achievements and concluding with a clip on the joy of taking a cruise holiday.
Costa Victoria will stop at several destinations in Japan including the tropical paradise Hososhima/Miyazaki, Wakayama, which boasts the largest hot spring resort, in Japan’s second largest city, Osaka, and the popular sightseeing cities in the Kanto Area Yokohama and Tokyo, the capital city. In the South Korean part of the itinerary destinations include ‘island of the Gods’ Jeju, the picturesque harbor town of Yeosu and South Korea’s second largest city, Busan.
The first voyage is a five-night itinerary that departs from Shanghai to Jeju then Fukuoka then Hososhima/Miyazaki before returning to Shanghai.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday, 23 April 2012
Island Escape Goes All-Inclusive
Island Cruises, the budget brand of Thomson Cruises, has announced that the 1,504-passenger, 40,132-ton Island Escape will go all-inclusive from March 2013.
Essentially, the only change is that drinks will be included, as the line already covers gratuities in its fares. Although the ship offers 24-hour buffet dining, charges for eating a la carte in the smarter, waiter-service Oasis restaurant will continue to apply.
For the 2012 season, passengers will continue to have the option to buy an all-inclusive drinks package, which varies according to the cruise but works out at around £189 per person per week.
Prices under the new arrangement will be higher than they are for this year, understandably, although it's difficult to pinpoint by exactly how much, as cruise fares frequently drop as a departure date approaches. In a price comparison check on Thomson's Web site, a typical 7-night cruise in the Med in 2012 was selling for a discounted £400 per person on Island Escape, and was priced at £779 for 2013.
Fraser Ellacott, managing director of Island Cruises said in a press statement: "All-inclusive is a very popular option with our customers already, so it makes perfect sense to offer it as standard."
Essentially, the only change is that drinks will be included, as the line already covers gratuities in its fares. Although the ship offers 24-hour buffet dining, charges for eating a la carte in the smarter, waiter-service Oasis restaurant will continue to apply.
For the 2012 season, passengers will continue to have the option to buy an all-inclusive drinks package, which varies according to the cruise but works out at around £189 per person per week.
Prices under the new arrangement will be higher than they are for this year, understandably, although it's difficult to pinpoint by exactly how much, as cruise fares frequently drop as a departure date approaches. In a price comparison check on Thomson's Web site, a typical 7-night cruise in the Med in 2012 was selling for a discounted £400 per person on Island Escape, and was priced at £779 for 2013.
Fraser Ellacott, managing director of Island Cruises said in a press statement: "All-inclusive is a very popular option with our customers already, so it makes perfect sense to offer it as standard."
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.
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