MSC Cruises has announced a number of new children-friendly initiatives.
First, children can now order from the “kid’s menu” at dinner, and, if they finish food earlier than the rest of their family, the kids’ club staff will come and pick them up.
For kids who relish their independence and would love the freedom of eating with their friends, away from the grown-ups and their dull conversations, MSC Fun Time Dinners have been introduced.
With MSC Fun Time Dinners, children in a separate, specially decorated area of the buffet restaurant with the entertainment team, and then have fun in the Mini and Junior Club while parents enjoy a leisurely dinner alone, picking up the kids when they’ve finished.
Every single night of the week, children aged between three and 11 can eat together with the entertainment team and their new friends. Three of these nights are theme parties- a Welcome Party, Italian Party, and Farewell and Birthday Party- while the remaining four are MSC Fun Time Dinners.
Both the MSC Happy Dinners and the MSC Fun Time Dinner services are now available free of charge on all MSC ships. Dedicated to children aged from 3 to 11, parents simply need to register their children in advance with the Mini or Junior Club and fill inthe special ‘dinner coupons’ with their details.
MSC Cruises has also introduced a second nanny-hour to its kids’ club programmes. Every morning from 09.00 to 10.00 and now also from 17.00 to 18.00, MSC offers a special programme designed for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 36 months to spend quality time with their parents with the support of MSC kids’ club staff.
Staff organize dedicated games and activities aimed specifically at MSC’s youngest guests and their parents, including playing with bricks, musical games, baby disco, puzzle games and drawing.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Showing posts with label Cruiselines. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cruiselines. Show all posts
Tuesday, 14 August 2012
Monday, 13 August 2012
Transatlantic cruises offer fantastic value
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.
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.
Thursday, 9 August 2012
Unexpected cruise offerings
Traditionally it's been the massive swimming pool surrounded by deck chairs, the fitness centre and more recently, the rock climbing wall. But these days, cruise ships' sporting facilities are becoming a whole lot more diverse as well as entertaining.
Onboard Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas, for instance, there's an entire deck dedicated to sports, with a full-sized sports court, an in-line skating track, a jogging track and a golf simulator among the facilities. And onboard the cruiseline's newest ships - Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, you'll find FlowRider surf simulators, the first zip lines at sea and a sports pool, where afternoon activities include basketball, badminton and water polo.
Costa Cruises ships also offer virtual sports facilities including golf simulators, which host 37 of the most famous greens from around the world and can be found onboard four of its ships, while a Grand Prix simulator can be found on five of its vessels. And Carnival Cruise Lines' first ship to be based year-round outside of the US - Carnival Spirit - has undergone a $7 million upgrade that includes a steep and fast waterslide called Green Thunder. The vessel will be based in Sydney from October.
These days you can even participate in water sports from the back of a vessel. Seabourn ships have their own in-built marina which can be deployed on a nice day, providing guests with access to kayaks, banana boats and waterskis.
ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS
Watching blockbuster movies on the poolside screen and catching Broadway-style shows in the theatre are two major drawcards of the modern day cruise ship, but the latest entertainment offerings go well beyond this. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (QM2), for instance, is home to the first planetarium at sea, allowing guests to take a virtual ride into space, view the stars or take a course on celestial navigation. The Illuminations theatre that houses the planetarium also hosts 3D shows, such as the first 3D ballet - Giselle.
Dazzling ice show productions featuring a cast of professional skaters are on offer to guests onboard Voyager of the Seas - performed in the vessel's 900-seat Studio B. The ice skating rink has a full-service bar and stadium seating, and is also home to other onboard activities such as game shows and onboard parties. The ship also offers the DreamWorks Experience at sea, with characters from Kung Fu Panda and Shrek among the personalities that interact with guests.
Meanwhile, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas both feature the spectacular AquaTheater - an amphitheatre-style space with an 18 metre pool where a talented cast of champion athletes (including former Olympians) perform acrobatics, trapeze artistry and water ballet. Celebrity Solstice offers the first glassblowing studio at sea, where guests can watch master glassblowers and then try it out for themselves, while onboard P&O Cruises vessels, guests can enjoy roving entertainment from Pacific Cirque - a floating circus complete with juggling, acrobatics and clowning. »
LEISURELY PURSUITS
A cruise holiday is relaxing by nature, but cruiselines are becoming even more innovative in providing opportunities for guests to unwind. These days there are onboard areas where you can unwind in a more private setting, such as P&O Cruises' The Oasis and Princess Cruises' The Sanctuary - adults-only retreats featuring plush seating, a beverage service and a soothing atmosphere.
Fancy a bit of a stroll? The Royal Promenade, on Voyager of the Seas, offers an onboard street lined with places to eat, drink and shop. And both Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas feature Royal Caribbean's seven neighbourhoods concept
Celebrity Cruises has also come up with innovative leisure options for passengers. Onboard Celebrity Solstice is the Lawn Club - a wide expanse of freshly manicured lawn on the top deck - where passengers can participate in activities like picnics and lawn bowls in a country club-styled environment. On the modern day cruise ship it's also all about learning new things and developing your interests. Cunard's ships offer a program of activities every day from watercolour to computer lessons, wine tasting to ballroom dancing as well as bridge and board games.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
When it comes to dining, passengers are already spoilt for choice, with cruise ships generally offering at least half a dozen different venues ranging from casual to elegant. But some cruiselines have a particular focus on providing amazing gastronomic experiences, such as Silversea Cruises. Onboard Silver Spirit, gourmet menus by Relais & Chateaux (Silversea's preferred culinary partner) are used at its restaurants, and passengers also have the opportunity to attend the only Relais & Chateaux cooking school at sea. Those who take the cruiseline's Culinary Arts Voyages and Wine Series trips have the opportunity to meet contemporary guest chefs and international vintners.
P&O Cruises boasts the swanky Salt Grill by Luke Mangan - onboard the Pacific Jewel, Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl. The celebrity chef's signature dishes include Sydney crab omelette with miso mustard broth and liquorice parfait with lime syrup.
EXCLUSIVE TOUCHES
What is it that makes for an exclusive experience onboard a cruise ship? Perhaps it's the traditional afternoon tea onboard the QM2, served by white-gloved waiters and taking place in the Queens Room, the largest ballroom at sea. Or perhaps it's Seabourn's Caviar in the Surf, offered on cruises to exotic destinations like the Caribbean and Belize, where guests are taken ashore and treated to caviar and champagne, followed by a lavish barbecue with silver and fine china.
Providing a highly impressive spa is par for the course nowadays for any major cruiseline. Costa Cruises, for example, features the Samsara Spa - a wellness centre spanning 6000 square metres - offering personalised Ayurvedic treatments and massages with fine oils among its services. And Seabourne's three vessels are all home to the 3475 square metre Spa at Seabourn, providing the ultimate pampering experience at sea.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Onboard Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas, for instance, there's an entire deck dedicated to sports, with a full-sized sports court, an in-line skating track, a jogging track and a golf simulator among the facilities. And onboard the cruiseline's newest ships - Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, you'll find FlowRider surf simulators, the first zip lines at sea and a sports pool, where afternoon activities include basketball, badminton and water polo.
Costa Cruises ships also offer virtual sports facilities including golf simulators, which host 37 of the most famous greens from around the world and can be found onboard four of its ships, while a Grand Prix simulator can be found on five of its vessels. And Carnival Cruise Lines' first ship to be based year-round outside of the US - Carnival Spirit - has undergone a $7 million upgrade that includes a steep and fast waterslide called Green Thunder. The vessel will be based in Sydney from October.
These days you can even participate in water sports from the back of a vessel. Seabourn ships have their own in-built marina which can be deployed on a nice day, providing guests with access to kayaks, banana boats and waterskis.
ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS
Watching blockbuster movies on the poolside screen and catching Broadway-style shows in the theatre are two major drawcards of the modern day cruise ship, but the latest entertainment offerings go well beyond this. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (QM2), for instance, is home to the first planetarium at sea, allowing guests to take a virtual ride into space, view the stars or take a course on celestial navigation. The Illuminations theatre that houses the planetarium also hosts 3D shows, such as the first 3D ballet - Giselle.
Dazzling ice show productions featuring a cast of professional skaters are on offer to guests onboard Voyager of the Seas - performed in the vessel's 900-seat Studio B. The ice skating rink has a full-service bar and stadium seating, and is also home to other onboard activities such as game shows and onboard parties. The ship also offers the DreamWorks Experience at sea, with characters from Kung Fu Panda and Shrek among the personalities that interact with guests.
Meanwhile, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas both feature the spectacular AquaTheater - an amphitheatre-style space with an 18 metre pool where a talented cast of champion athletes (including former Olympians) perform acrobatics, trapeze artistry and water ballet. Celebrity Solstice offers the first glassblowing studio at sea, where guests can watch master glassblowers and then try it out for themselves, while onboard P&O Cruises vessels, guests can enjoy roving entertainment from Pacific Cirque - a floating circus complete with juggling, acrobatics and clowning. »
LEISURELY PURSUITS
A cruise holiday is relaxing by nature, but cruiselines are becoming even more innovative in providing opportunities for guests to unwind. These days there are onboard areas where you can unwind in a more private setting, such as P&O Cruises' The Oasis and Princess Cruises' The Sanctuary - adults-only retreats featuring plush seating, a beverage service and a soothing atmosphere.
Fancy a bit of a stroll? The Royal Promenade, on Voyager of the Seas, offers an onboard street lined with places to eat, drink and shop. And both Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas feature Royal Caribbean's seven neighbourhoods concept
Celebrity Cruises has also come up with innovative leisure options for passengers. Onboard Celebrity Solstice is the Lawn Club - a wide expanse of freshly manicured lawn on the top deck - where passengers can participate in activities like picnics and lawn bowls in a country club-styled environment. On the modern day cruise ship it's also all about learning new things and developing your interests. Cunard's ships offer a program of activities every day from watercolour to computer lessons, wine tasting to ballroom dancing as well as bridge and board games.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
When it comes to dining, passengers are already spoilt for choice, with cruise ships generally offering at least half a dozen different venues ranging from casual to elegant. But some cruiselines have a particular focus on providing amazing gastronomic experiences, such as Silversea Cruises. Onboard Silver Spirit, gourmet menus by Relais & Chateaux (Silversea's preferred culinary partner) are used at its restaurants, and passengers also have the opportunity to attend the only Relais & Chateaux cooking school at sea. Those who take the cruiseline's Culinary Arts Voyages and Wine Series trips have the opportunity to meet contemporary guest chefs and international vintners.
P&O Cruises boasts the swanky Salt Grill by Luke Mangan - onboard the Pacific Jewel, Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl. The celebrity chef's signature dishes include Sydney crab omelette with miso mustard broth and liquorice parfait with lime syrup.
EXCLUSIVE TOUCHES
What is it that makes for an exclusive experience onboard a cruise ship? Perhaps it's the traditional afternoon tea onboard the QM2, served by white-gloved waiters and taking place in the Queens Room, the largest ballroom at sea. Or perhaps it's Seabourn's Caviar in the Surf, offered on cruises to exotic destinations like the Caribbean and Belize, where guests are taken ashore and treated to caviar and champagne, followed by a lavish barbecue with silver and fine china.
Providing a highly impressive spa is par for the course nowadays for any major cruiseline. Costa Cruises, for example, features the Samsara Spa - a wellness centre spanning 6000 square metres - offering personalised Ayurvedic treatments and massages with fine oils among its services. And Seabourne's three vessels are all home to the 3475 square metre Spa at Seabourn, providing the ultimate pampering experience at sea.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Sunday, 5 August 2012
New Chair Hog Program on Carnival Breeze
Cruise Lines is the latest to announce it will make every effort to put the brakes on chair hoggers (derisively known as "choggers"), who claim chaise lounges by the pool even though they're not using them, in a new pilot program.
The test effort, first revealed on John Heald's Facebook page, and later confirmed by the line, allows passengers to leave their loungers for no more than 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, chair-saving devices like towels, magazines, flip flops and articles of clothing are removed. It is taking place only on Carnival Breeze.
"Carnival Cruise Lines has recently begun testing a new system designed to ensure that all guests are able to enjoy equal access to sun loungers by preventing seat saving in outdoor deck areas," Carnival spokesman Vance Gulliksen commented.
In this iteration, outdoor deck area crew monitor sun lounger usage and when they see a seat that contains a towel or personal belongings that appears to be unoccupied, a notification sticker with the time of day is placed on the chair. If the seat remains empty for another 40 minutes, the contents are removed.
According to Gulliksen details of the new system are being widely broadcast to passengers "via public address announcements by the cruise director, signage in outdoor deck areas, messages displayed on the Seaside Theater poolside LED screen, as well as notices in 'Fun Times.'"
Carnival isn't the only line that's putting this method to the test. Norwegian Cruise Line has also been experimenting on its ships with a similar sticker system, allowing items to be removed from chairs after they've been unoccupied for more than 30 minutes.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The test effort, first revealed on John Heald's Facebook page, and later confirmed by the line, allows passengers to leave their loungers for no more than 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, chair-saving devices like towels, magazines, flip flops and articles of clothing are removed. It is taking place only on Carnival Breeze.
"Carnival Cruise Lines has recently begun testing a new system designed to ensure that all guests are able to enjoy equal access to sun loungers by preventing seat saving in outdoor deck areas," Carnival spokesman Vance Gulliksen commented.
In this iteration, outdoor deck area crew monitor sun lounger usage and when they see a seat that contains a towel or personal belongings that appears to be unoccupied, a notification sticker with the time of day is placed on the chair. If the seat remains empty for another 40 minutes, the contents are removed.
According to Gulliksen details of the new system are being widely broadcast to passengers "via public address announcements by the cruise director, signage in outdoor deck areas, messages displayed on the Seaside Theater poolside LED screen, as well as notices in 'Fun Times.'"
Carnival isn't the only line that's putting this method to the test. Norwegian Cruise Line has also been experimenting on its ships with a similar sticker system, allowing items to be removed from chairs after they've been unoccupied for more than 30 minutes.
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.
Tuesday, 24 July 2012
Crystal Cruises New 'Magic Castle at Sea'
Crystal Cruises has pulled the ultimate rabbit out of a hat with a new, industry-first program entitled “Magic Castle at Sea.” Thanks to an exclusive arrangement magically orchestrated by Master Magician Rich Bloch, magicians from Hollywood’s renowned private magicians’ club, the Magic Castle, will come aboard to entertain and mystify guests of all ages.
Starting today aboard Crystal Symphony and on August 6’s Crystal Serenity voyage, the incredibly intimate evening shows add yet another live entertainment option to 13 luxury European cruises this year, and every voyage in 2013. The new affiliation also offers complimentary classes for adults to develop their own magical acts, educational enrichment on subjects like Houdini, and children’s shows on select summer and holiday sailings...plus access to the secret Castle itself when in Los Angeles.
“Considering club guests can only gain entrance if they’re in LA and invited by a member, Crystal’s Magic Castle at Sea provides rare access to a truly spellbinding entertainment experience,” says Crystal’s Vice President of Entertainment, Bret Bullock. “We’re thrilled to offer our guests yet another unique choice in high-caliber vacation fun.”
Like at the Magic Castle itself, on-board performances are “invitation-only,” with advance, complimentary “invitations”/tickets available at the ships’ libraries. Guests can choose from multiple, half-hour performances over the course of several nights. Come showtime, they enter a special entrance to find the ship’s Pulse or Luxe lounge transformed into the mysterious spirit of the Victorian-era Castle, with flameless candles, lighting, music, murals, bookshelves and magic movies from the 1920’s. With attendance limited to just 25, audience members are privy to an extremely up-close look at sleight-of-hand tricks, impossible feats, and bewitching hocus pocus.
After vacation’s end, invitations can further be used for one-time access to the real Magic Castle in Hollywood. Show attendees must call the number on the back of their used ticket to reserve entry, then present the same ticket upon arrival at the Castle.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Starting today aboard Crystal Symphony and on August 6’s Crystal Serenity voyage, the incredibly intimate evening shows add yet another live entertainment option to 13 luxury European cruises this year, and every voyage in 2013. The new affiliation also offers complimentary classes for adults to develop their own magical acts, educational enrichment on subjects like Houdini, and children’s shows on select summer and holiday sailings...plus access to the secret Castle itself when in Los Angeles.
“Considering club guests can only gain entrance if they’re in LA and invited by a member, Crystal’s Magic Castle at Sea provides rare access to a truly spellbinding entertainment experience,” says Crystal’s Vice President of Entertainment, Bret Bullock. “We’re thrilled to offer our guests yet another unique choice in high-caliber vacation fun.”
Like at the Magic Castle itself, on-board performances are “invitation-only,” with advance, complimentary “invitations”/tickets available at the ships’ libraries. Guests can choose from multiple, half-hour performances over the course of several nights. Come showtime, they enter a special entrance to find the ship’s Pulse or Luxe lounge transformed into the mysterious spirit of the Victorian-era Castle, with flameless candles, lighting, music, murals, bookshelves and magic movies from the 1920’s. With attendance limited to just 25, audience members are privy to an extremely up-close look at sleight-of-hand tricks, impossible feats, and bewitching hocus pocus.
After vacation’s end, invitations can further be used for one-time access to the real Magic Castle in Hollywood. Show attendees must call the number on the back of their used ticket to reserve entry, then present the same ticket upon arrival at the Castle.
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.
Sunday, 22 July 2012
Fred Olsen Becomes Latest Line to Launch Price Promise
The Fred. Olsen Price Pledge means that if the price of the cruise is reduced for the cabin grade booked, Fred. Olsen will refund the difference through one or a combination of measures - a cabin upgrade, onboard credit (O.B.C.), or a cash refund.
The price pledge is applicable on bookings made from today (July 20th, 2012) to September 30th 2012, and applies to all sailings departing on or after April 6th, 2013 and which are featured in the current 2013/14 Worldwide Cruises brochure, except for the world cruises.
The moves follows that of Carnival, which introduced an Early Saver Promise into the U.K. market for the first time earlier this year; and P&O and Cunard, which both introduced Vantage Fares this week. Saga Cruises was in fact the first line to have an early booking promise, and has had this available to passengers for the past three years. Like P&O and Cunard's Vantage Fares, Saga's early price promise allows you to choose your cabin and if the price of a cruise is reduced - even for a day - the line contacts you and offers a reimbursement, again either in the form of O.B.C, an upgrade or refund.
Fred. Olsen has confirmed it will contact all guests entitled to refunds or upgrades before the cruise departure date to advise them of how they have benefitted.
Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We want to offer our guests the best possible deal on their cruise with us, and by booking early with the Fred. Olsen Price Pledge, they will have the peace of mind that, should the cruise price reduce, then we will make up the difference, whilst they will be able to secure the best choice of cruise and cabins.”
The line also confirmed it will offer more ‘all-inclusive' cruises. The move follows a trial period with four limited-availability itineraries. The all-inclusive offers, which include drinks, but not tips, will now be extended to all cruise departures on or after April 6th, 2013 and featured in its current 2013/14 Worldwide Cruises brochure, for bookings before September 30th, 2012. The offer also excludes the world cruises and is limited to the first 100 bookings per sailing taken between now and the end of September 2012. The deal will also be added to all applicable bookings retrospectively.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The price pledge is applicable on bookings made from today (July 20th, 2012) to September 30th 2012, and applies to all sailings departing on or after April 6th, 2013 and which are featured in the current 2013/14 Worldwide Cruises brochure, except for the world cruises.
The moves follows that of Carnival, which introduced an Early Saver Promise into the U.K. market for the first time earlier this year; and P&O and Cunard, which both introduced Vantage Fares this week. Saga Cruises was in fact the first line to have an early booking promise, and has had this available to passengers for the past three years. Like P&O and Cunard's Vantage Fares, Saga's early price promise allows you to choose your cabin and if the price of a cruise is reduced - even for a day - the line contacts you and offers a reimbursement, again either in the form of O.B.C, an upgrade or refund.
Fred. Olsen has confirmed it will contact all guests entitled to refunds or upgrades before the cruise departure date to advise them of how they have benefitted.
Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We want to offer our guests the best possible deal on their cruise with us, and by booking early with the Fred. Olsen Price Pledge, they will have the peace of mind that, should the cruise price reduce, then we will make up the difference, whilst they will be able to secure the best choice of cruise and cabins.”
The line also confirmed it will offer more ‘all-inclusive' cruises. The move follows a trial period with four limited-availability itineraries. The all-inclusive offers, which include drinks, but not tips, will now be extended to all cruise departures on or after April 6th, 2013 and featured in its current 2013/14 Worldwide Cruises brochure, for bookings before September 30th, 2012. The offer also excludes the world cruises and is limited to the first 100 bookings per sailing taken between now and the end of September 2012. The deal will also be added to all applicable bookings retrospectively.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Saturday, 21 July 2012
Viking River Cruises Orders Two More Ships for 2013
Viking River Cruises has announced it has placed an order for two additional Viking Longships in 2013. This brings the number of new ships launching next year to eight – an industry first – and a total of 14 new Viking Longships over a two year period.
“As the fastest-growing segment of travel, river cruising is inspiring more vacation plans than ever before,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We are very pleased by the response we have seen to our new Viking Longships, and we are continuing our expansion to meet that demand.”
Viking Longships integrate patent-pending design and cutting-edge technology with comfortable amenities that reflect guest preferences and current travel trends, such as:
• Two Explorer Suites, the largest river cruise suites in Europe at 445 square feet, each featuring a separate living room, bedroom and private wraparound veranda, offering 270-degree views.
• Seven two-room Veranda Suites with a full-size veranda in the living room and a French balcony in the bedroom.
• Thirty-nine Veranda Staterooms with full-size verandas.
• Twenty-two French Balcony Staterooms.
• A revolutionary new all-weather indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, which reinvents the onboard lounge experience by bringing the panoramic outdoor river scenery indoors with retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors allowing guests to enjoy the scenery and dine al fresco.
• New premium in-cabin amenities that include heated bathroom floors and mirrors, Sony HD TV’s and premium bath products.
• Sustainability upgrades, such as solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden and energy-efficient hybrid engines that reduce vibrations for a remarkably smooth ride.
Accommodating 190 passengers, the ships are scheduled to sail four of Viking’s most popular European itineraries, including the 10-day Tulips & Windmills, 8-day Romantic Danube, 15-day Grand European Tour and 8-day Danube Waltz. The two newest ships, Viking Jarl and Viking Atla, will host guests on the 8-day Rhine Getaway cruise sailing from Amsterdam to Basel. Each of the new Viking Longships will be 443 feet (135 meters) long and will feature 95 staterooms per ship.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
“As the fastest-growing segment of travel, river cruising is inspiring more vacation plans than ever before,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We are very pleased by the response we have seen to our new Viking Longships, and we are continuing our expansion to meet that demand.”
Viking Longships integrate patent-pending design and cutting-edge technology with comfortable amenities that reflect guest preferences and current travel trends, such as:
• Two Explorer Suites, the largest river cruise suites in Europe at 445 square feet, each featuring a separate living room, bedroom and private wraparound veranda, offering 270-degree views.
• Seven two-room Veranda Suites with a full-size veranda in the living room and a French balcony in the bedroom.
• Thirty-nine Veranda Staterooms with full-size verandas.
• Twenty-two French Balcony Staterooms.
• A revolutionary new all-weather indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, which reinvents the onboard lounge experience by bringing the panoramic outdoor river scenery indoors with retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors allowing guests to enjoy the scenery and dine al fresco.
• New premium in-cabin amenities that include heated bathroom floors and mirrors, Sony HD TV’s and premium bath products.
• Sustainability upgrades, such as solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden and energy-efficient hybrid engines that reduce vibrations for a remarkably smooth ride.
Accommodating 190 passengers, the ships are scheduled to sail four of Viking’s most popular European itineraries, including the 10-day Tulips & Windmills, 8-day Romantic Danube, 15-day Grand European Tour and 8-day Danube Waltz. The two newest ships, Viking Jarl and Viking Atla, will host guests on the 8-day Rhine Getaway cruise sailing from Amsterdam to Basel. Each of the new Viking Longships will be 443 feet (135 meters) long and will feature 95 staterooms per ship.
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.
Thursday, 19 July 2012
Princess Cruises Unveils Royal Princess Fitness Facilities
Princess Cruises today revealed the sports and fitness features that will be aboard the new Royal Princess when the ship debuts next June. Passengers of all athletic abilities can test their mettle and keep in shape with a new outdoor jogging track and additional circuit exercises, the multi-activity Princess Sports Central and a fitness center full of the latest equipment with a private aerobics studio for special classes.
The new sports and fitness features are detailed in the company’s latest video previewing Royal Princess, available at www.princess.com/learn/ships/rp/video_tours.
“Many of our passengers are very active on vacation,” said Jan Swartz, executive vice president for Princess Cruises. “These new facilities will offer them state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge classes to keep up – or even step up – their fitness routines at sea.”
Among the fitness facilities on Royal Princess are:
Jogging Track – This new double-lane jogging track on Deck 18 features separate paths for runners and walkers. In addition, a new circuit program with unique outdoor exercise stations will be set at intervals along the track, making it the perfect place for passengers who want to burn a few extra calories or work on strength moves al fresco. This modern outdoor fitness equipment will offer a new option for those who wish to work out on deck and enjoy the sea air. The track area will be decorated with art picturing iconic global travel destinations, giving passengers the opportunity to “run around the world.”
Princess Sports Central –The multi-sport area on decks 18 and 19 is designed to offer a collection of fun options, including court games, lawn activities and even a lounge for virtual gaming. The Center Court can be used for basketball, tennis, volleyball and badminton, while baseball fans can even practice their swing at the portable batting cage. Golfers will find a driving range facility, while the simulated laser shooting range offers a new onboard activity. On the upper level, the Lawn Court offers a grassy area for putting, bocce ball, croquet and lawn bowling. The Game Lounge will offer a comfortable space to meet up for games, including table tennis and virtual gaming with Kinect systems. The cruise staff will be on hand to organize sports competitions and fun group games.
Fitness Center/Aerobics Studio – The Fitness Center on Deck 17 pairs a state-of-the-art gym with spectacular ocean views. This multi-tiered facility will offer something for all fitness levels, so everyone from beginner to expert will find challenging exercise options. Passengers will find the latest in exercise equipment like treadmills, recumbent bicycles, elliptical machines, strength equipment, as well as a selection of free weights. Most equipment will feature personal TV screens, and some will even offer an interactive, virtual experience that makes exercising a bit more fun and engaging.
New to Royal Princess at the back of the gym is a private aerobics studio that will host a selection of fitness classes, including some intriguing new workout options to keep passengers on their toes. Among the class options will be:
TRX® – Born of the U.S. Navy SEALS, TRX suspension training bodyweight exercise is a revolutionary method of functional training. Using a TRX Suspension Trainer combined with bodyweight, participants can perform hundreds of different exercises and control the intensity by adjusting body position and angle. Classes will be held in the indoor studio as well as outside on the fitness court.
MyRide – A new era in indoor cycling, MyRide offers the opportunity to ride through inspiring scenic landscapes from around the world, with varying levels of intensity controlled by the user.
Body Sculpt Boot Camp – Passengers can increase muscle tone, improve muscular strength, enhance endurance and energy levels with this workout program that burns up to 700 calories in the 40 minute class. Participants will receive a take-home poster/program which outlines all the exercises and breaks the program up into four manageable workouts so they can continue their workouts after the cruise.
Chi Ball Yoga – This relaxing new class uses an aromatherapy-scented ball infused with different mood-enhancing essential oils.
Passengers can meet with fitness instructors in consultation rooms where they can privately discuss their fitness goals and design a workout routine. The fitness center is part of the ship’s Lotus Spa, so passengers can wind down after their workout with a relaxing massage.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The new sports and fitness features are detailed in the company’s latest video previewing Royal Princess, available at www.princess.com/learn/ships/rp/video_tours.
“Many of our passengers are very active on vacation,” said Jan Swartz, executive vice president for Princess Cruises. “These new facilities will offer them state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge classes to keep up – or even step up – their fitness routines at sea.”
Among the fitness facilities on Royal Princess are:
Jogging Track – This new double-lane jogging track on Deck 18 features separate paths for runners and walkers. In addition, a new circuit program with unique outdoor exercise stations will be set at intervals along the track, making it the perfect place for passengers who want to burn a few extra calories or work on strength moves al fresco. This modern outdoor fitness equipment will offer a new option for those who wish to work out on deck and enjoy the sea air. The track area will be decorated with art picturing iconic global travel destinations, giving passengers the opportunity to “run around the world.”
Princess Sports Central –The multi-sport area on decks 18 and 19 is designed to offer a collection of fun options, including court games, lawn activities and even a lounge for virtual gaming. The Center Court can be used for basketball, tennis, volleyball and badminton, while baseball fans can even practice their swing at the portable batting cage. Golfers will find a driving range facility, while the simulated laser shooting range offers a new onboard activity. On the upper level, the Lawn Court offers a grassy area for putting, bocce ball, croquet and lawn bowling. The Game Lounge will offer a comfortable space to meet up for games, including table tennis and virtual gaming with Kinect systems. The cruise staff will be on hand to organize sports competitions and fun group games.
Fitness Center/Aerobics Studio – The Fitness Center on Deck 17 pairs a state-of-the-art gym with spectacular ocean views. This multi-tiered facility will offer something for all fitness levels, so everyone from beginner to expert will find challenging exercise options. Passengers will find the latest in exercise equipment like treadmills, recumbent bicycles, elliptical machines, strength equipment, as well as a selection of free weights. Most equipment will feature personal TV screens, and some will even offer an interactive, virtual experience that makes exercising a bit more fun and engaging.
New to Royal Princess at the back of the gym is a private aerobics studio that will host a selection of fitness classes, including some intriguing new workout options to keep passengers on their toes. Among the class options will be:
TRX® – Born of the U.S. Navy SEALS, TRX suspension training bodyweight exercise is a revolutionary method of functional training. Using a TRX Suspension Trainer combined with bodyweight, participants can perform hundreds of different exercises and control the intensity by adjusting body position and angle. Classes will be held in the indoor studio as well as outside on the fitness court.
MyRide – A new era in indoor cycling, MyRide offers the opportunity to ride through inspiring scenic landscapes from around the world, with varying levels of intensity controlled by the user.
Body Sculpt Boot Camp – Passengers can increase muscle tone, improve muscular strength, enhance endurance and energy levels with this workout program that burns up to 700 calories in the 40 minute class. Participants will receive a take-home poster/program which outlines all the exercises and breaks the program up into four manageable workouts so they can continue their workouts after the cruise.
Chi Ball Yoga – This relaxing new class uses an aromatherapy-scented ball infused with different mood-enhancing essential oils.
Passengers can meet with fitness instructors in consultation rooms where they can privately discuss their fitness goals and design a workout routine. The fitness center is part of the ship’s Lotus Spa, so passengers can wind down after their workout with a relaxing massage.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Wednesday, 20 June 2012
Master Chef's International Dinner Introduced by Holland America
Holland America Line has unveiled a new Master Chef’s International Dinner in the main dining room, a unique experience showcasing signature dishes from around the world. The exotic menu is offered once a cruise and features cuisine from six continents crafted by Holland America Line’s award-winning Master Chef Rudi Sodamin in collaboration with several of the line’s expert chefs.
Guests can design their international three- or four-course meal by choosing each course from selections that represent a variety of cultures. The exclusive 20-dish menu includes appetizers, entrees and desserts from Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, North and South America, as well as wine pairings from each region. Guests also can choose Chef Rudi’s Tour Around the World, a pre-selected three-course meal by the master chef.
“The Master Chef’s International Dinner is a special culinary celebration of cultures around the world,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Each dish captures the essence of the region’s cuisine with each course complementing the next, making for a truly exquisite dining experience for our guests.”
The international menu includes Scandinavian-style Seafood and Potato Chowder, Lebanese Lamb Shank, Argentinean Guiso Soup, Bourbon Glazed Beef with Grilled Portabella Mushrooms and Tofu and Vegetable Korma. Desserts include New York-style Cheesecake, Viennese Mohr im Hemd and Kiwi and Passion Fruit Pavlova, a traditional meringue-based Russian dessert.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Guests can design their international three- or four-course meal by choosing each course from selections that represent a variety of cultures. The exclusive 20-dish menu includes appetizers, entrees and desserts from Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, North and South America, as well as wine pairings from each region. Guests also can choose Chef Rudi’s Tour Around the World, a pre-selected three-course meal by the master chef.
“The Master Chef’s International Dinner is a special culinary celebration of cultures around the world,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Each dish captures the essence of the region’s cuisine with each course complementing the next, making for a truly exquisite dining experience for our guests.”
The international menu includes Scandinavian-style Seafood and Potato Chowder, Lebanese Lamb Shank, Argentinean Guiso Soup, Bourbon Glazed Beef with Grilled Portabella Mushrooms and Tofu and Vegetable Korma. Desserts include New York-style Cheesecake, Viennese Mohr im Hemd and Kiwi and Passion Fruit Pavlova, a traditional meringue-based Russian dessert.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
Unlimited Drinks Package with MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has announced an all-inclusive beverage package, ‘Allegrissimo’, allowing guests to enjoy unlimited wines, cocktails and beverages throughout their entire cruise.
Adults can enjoy unlimited wines by the glass, cocktails, draught beer, soft drinks and juices, mineral water, smoothies, and take away ice creams.
Children can enjoy soft drinks and juices, mineral water, hot drinks, smoothies and milkshakes, and take away ice creams.
The package can be used at every venue throughout the ship during the entire cruise, with the exception of the à -la-carte restaurants and mini-bars.
The ‘Allegrissimo Premium’ packages offer even more choice, and include all premium brands, a large range of DOC/DOCG wines by the glass, the best selection of premium and signature cocktails, drinks from the minibar as well as items from the 'Gelateria' menu, Pastry Shop and food from the room service menu.
The package can be used at every venue throughout the ship during the entire cruise, with the exception of the à -la-carte restaurants.
Guests can book their ‘Allegrissimo’ package by contacting their travel agent. In order to complement the services provided by travel agents and offer greater convenience to guests who wish to continue planning their holiday outside of travel agent hours, it is now also possible to book this service online through the company’s global website, as well as the local consumer websites in Italy, France, Austria, UK, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Japan, Lebanon, USA and Mexico.
An ‘On Board Services Reservation Tool’ is available under the ‘On Board Services’ section of the websites and gives guests with a confirmed cruise booking reference number the opportunity to reserve special services, including ‘Allegrissimo’ packages, before their holiday departure. Once guests have confirmed the reservation of the particular service they have booked, the amount will be debited from their account on board ship through our post-paid service.
‘Allegrissimo’ packages booked through the ‘On Board Services Reservation Tool’ can be made or modified up to 3 days before departure.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Adults can enjoy unlimited wines by the glass, cocktails, draught beer, soft drinks and juices, mineral water, smoothies, and take away ice creams.
Children can enjoy soft drinks and juices, mineral water, hot drinks, smoothies and milkshakes, and take away ice creams.
The package can be used at every venue throughout the ship during the entire cruise, with the exception of the à -la-carte restaurants and mini-bars.
The ‘Allegrissimo Premium’ packages offer even more choice, and include all premium brands, a large range of DOC/DOCG wines by the glass, the best selection of premium and signature cocktails, drinks from the minibar as well as items from the 'Gelateria' menu, Pastry Shop and food from the room service menu.
The package can be used at every venue throughout the ship during the entire cruise, with the exception of the à -la-carte restaurants.
Guests can book their ‘Allegrissimo’ package by contacting their travel agent. In order to complement the services provided by travel agents and offer greater convenience to guests who wish to continue planning their holiday outside of travel agent hours, it is now also possible to book this service online through the company’s global website, as well as the local consumer websites in Italy, France, Austria, UK, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Japan, Lebanon, USA and Mexico.
An ‘On Board Services Reservation Tool’ is available under the ‘On Board Services’ section of the websites and gives guests with a confirmed cruise booking reference number the opportunity to reserve special services, including ‘Allegrissimo’ packages, before their holiday departure. Once guests have confirmed the reservation of the particular service they have booked, the amount will be debited from their account on board ship through our post-paid service.
‘Allegrissimo’ packages booked through the ‘On Board Services Reservation Tool’ can be made or modified up to 3 days before departure.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday, 11 June 2012
2012 Food Cruises from Crystal Cruises
Renowned for providing intimate access to the cream of the international culinary crop, ultra-luxe Crystal Cruises is bringing aboard esteemed chefs, wine experts, and mixologists to enlighten guests on Europe’s culinary arts and host a $1,000/person rare wine experience, with mentors including:
• Norway’s upcoming Bocuse d’Or contender, Ørjan Johannessen, and his coach, past Bronze winner Odd Ivar Solvold, giving an insider’s peak into, and taste of, training to become the best chef in the world.
• Christian Moueix, scion of the French winemaking family behind Chateau Petrus (one of the most expensive wines in the world) and a dozen other wineries in Bordeaux and Napa.
• Hans Peter Fink, an award-winning master chef and winner of Lyon’s Bocuse d’Or.
• Doug Frost, wine author and one of only three people in the world to achieve both Master of Wine and Master Sommelier certifications.
• Andre Rochat, Las Vegas’s original celebrity chef (the Palms’ Alizé, Monte Carlo Hotel’s André’s, and more) and owner of one of the most extensive collections of wine, armagnacs, cognacs, vintage ports, and spirits in the world.
• Robin Kelley O’Connor, a 30-year wine expert and former Head of Wine for Christie’s Americas’.
• Dr. Patrick Farrell, a Master of Wine who has helped create instant decanters that decrease bitterness in wine and whiskey.
Complimentary cooking lessons, hands-on classes, wine tasting, cocktail-mixing instruction, and special dinner menus for all will be offered:
• September 18: 12-day Mediterranean cruise from Istanbul to Venice on Crystal Serenity
• November 17: 11-day Canary Island voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on Crystal Serenity
• August 14: 11-day Baltic/North Sea sailing from Stockholm to Dover/London on Crystal Symphony.
Moueix and Solvold will also serve as chef/wine expert hosts for this cruise’s pièce de résistance: a 7-course, $1,000 “Ultimate Vintage Room” fete, with Moueix sharing uber-rare wine pairings from his private collection.
Until June 30, “Book Now” fares for the Wine and Food-themed series begin at $3,615/person, double occupancy, with $1,000/person in additional savings for Penthouse bookings. Attractive airfares are available from more than 200 North American gateways.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
• Norway’s upcoming Bocuse d’Or contender, Ørjan Johannessen, and his coach, past Bronze winner Odd Ivar Solvold, giving an insider’s peak into, and taste of, training to become the best chef in the world.
• Christian Moueix, scion of the French winemaking family behind Chateau Petrus (one of the most expensive wines in the world) and a dozen other wineries in Bordeaux and Napa.
• Hans Peter Fink, an award-winning master chef and winner of Lyon’s Bocuse d’Or.
• Doug Frost, wine author and one of only three people in the world to achieve both Master of Wine and Master Sommelier certifications.
• Andre Rochat, Las Vegas’s original celebrity chef (the Palms’ Alizé, Monte Carlo Hotel’s André’s, and more) and owner of one of the most extensive collections of wine, armagnacs, cognacs, vintage ports, and spirits in the world.
• Robin Kelley O’Connor, a 30-year wine expert and former Head of Wine for Christie’s Americas’.
• Dr. Patrick Farrell, a Master of Wine who has helped create instant decanters that decrease bitterness in wine and whiskey.
Complimentary cooking lessons, hands-on classes, wine tasting, cocktail-mixing instruction, and special dinner menus for all will be offered:
• September 18: 12-day Mediterranean cruise from Istanbul to Venice on Crystal Serenity
• November 17: 11-day Canary Island voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on Crystal Serenity
• August 14: 11-day Baltic/North Sea sailing from Stockholm to Dover/London on Crystal Symphony.
Moueix and Solvold will also serve as chef/wine expert hosts for this cruise’s pièce de résistance: a 7-course, $1,000 “Ultimate Vintage Room” fete, with Moueix sharing uber-rare wine pairings from his private collection.
Until June 30, “Book Now” fares for the Wine and Food-themed series begin at $3,615/person, double occupancy, with $1,000/person in additional savings for Penthouse bookings. Attractive airfares are available from more than 200 North American gateways.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Sunday, 10 June 2012
Delays and Itinerary Changes for U.K.-Bound Cruise Ships
With gale-force winds battering much of the United Kingdom over the last few days, at least two cruise ships have faced delay or diversion due to high wind and rough seas.
MSC Opera, which was scheduled to dock Friday (8/6/12) morning local time (GMT) in Southampton, made it into port at 4 p.m. GMT on Friday, according to a port spokesperson. A statement from MSC Cruises cited the adverse weather conditions and focus on passenger safety as the cause for the delay. From Southampton, MSC Opera is scheduled to depart on an 8-night Baltic & Northern Europe cruise. It is not yet known whether the ship, which is supposed to depart Southampton at 10 p.m. GMT on Friday, will face further delays.
A second ship that faced weather-related difficulties was Costa NeoRomantica, which was unable to dock in Dover, the ship's turn-around port, Friday as scheduled. A Costa spokesperson commented that the ship was redirected to Amsterdam to offload passengers from the current cruise and pick up those scheduled to sail on the next, an 8-night Baltic & Northern Europe cruise.
Upon disembarkation in Amsterdam, passengers will be flown back to the U.K. as required, and guests who had been due to embark in Dover will be flown to Amsterdam to meet the ship. The line is covering the cost of all flights, and no further itinerary changes are expected.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
MSC Opera, which was scheduled to dock Friday (8/6/12) morning local time (GMT) in Southampton, made it into port at 4 p.m. GMT on Friday, according to a port spokesperson. A statement from MSC Cruises cited the adverse weather conditions and focus on passenger safety as the cause for the delay. From Southampton, MSC Opera is scheduled to depart on an 8-night Baltic & Northern Europe cruise. It is not yet known whether the ship, which is supposed to depart Southampton at 10 p.m. GMT on Friday, will face further delays.
A second ship that faced weather-related difficulties was Costa NeoRomantica, which was unable to dock in Dover, the ship's turn-around port, Friday as scheduled. A Costa spokesperson commented that the ship was redirected to Amsterdam to offload passengers from the current cruise and pick up those scheduled to sail on the next, an 8-night Baltic & Northern Europe cruise.
Upon disembarkation in Amsterdam, passengers will be flown back to the U.K. as required, and guests who had been due to embark in Dover will be flown to Amsterdam to meet the ship. The line is covering the cost of all flights, and no further itinerary changes are expected.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Thursday, 7 June 2012
Classic International to Sail from UK to Australia
Classic International Cruises has confirmed its tenth annual season in Australia for 2013-14 by announcing its first ever line voyage from England to Australia in September, 2013, with new combo fares also introduced to enable Australians to cruise from Australia to England and back for a European summer holiday next year.
The new cruise - a 44-night traditional line voyage aboard the classic-styled Athena from Tilbury in England on September 29, 2013, to Perth – will provide the earliest start ever for a summer season in Australia for Classic International Cruises and will be the line’s first-ever voyage to Australia from England rather than Italy or France.
The early line voyage to Australia and the departure from the UK means Australian cruise fans who dislike flying- or winter - can sail from Perth on April 15, 2013, to England aboard Athena via the Suez Canal at the end of her 2012/13 season in Australia and after arriving in the UK on May 25, 2013, spend the summer in England or Europe sightseeing or staying with friends and relatives before sailing on September 29, 2013, back to Perth, via South Africa, arriving on November 12, 2013, in time for an Aussie summer!
And unlike tightening airline luggage rules, passengers on the two line voyages can also bring three bags each instead of two, ensuring lots of space for gifts and souvenirs.
And to enable more Australians to experience the traditional, pre-jet age, no-flying option to the UK and back, Classic International Cruise is offering a minimum $1860 per person discount to passengers who combine the two line voyages from Perth to England and back in 2013, with the 40-night northbound voyage next April and the 44-night southbound voyage in September, 2013, available from $10,995 per person, instead of $12,855. The combo fare includes a total of 84 nights aboard Athena as well as all onboard meals and entertainment.
Classic International Cruises Managing Director Grant Hunter said that Athena’s earlier-than-normal Australian season in WA in 2013-14 would include an 18-day annual maintenance drydock for Athena in Asia in November, 2013, with full details of the ship’s 2013-14 Australian program to be released later this year.
“We’re very excited Athena will be back in Australia in 2013-14 for our tenth annual summer season here and I’m sure many Australians will be excited at the opportunity to sail from Perth to England and back next year for a summer in Europe,” Mr Hunter said. “Our loyal passengers love being at sea on a real ocean liner and our voyages between Australia and Europe are always popular so we’re expecting strong demand for our new no-flight option to England can back next year.”
Destinations on Athena’s voyage from Perth on April 15, 2013, to England include Sri Lanka, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Malta, Italy, Morocco and Athena’s home country of Portugal. Her return to Australia from England on September 29, 2013, will see her visit France, Spain, Portugal, the Atlantic islands of St Vincent, Ascension and St Helena, South Africa, Reunion Island and Mauritius.
Carrying only 580 passengers, the 16,000-ton Athena features traditional wooden deck chairs, pool, fitness centre, five bars and lounges, casino, library, cinema and two restaurants. Athena has 277 spacious cabins and each boasts a bath – a luxury only found in suites on the latest superliners.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The new cruise - a 44-night traditional line voyage aboard the classic-styled Athena from Tilbury in England on September 29, 2013, to Perth – will provide the earliest start ever for a summer season in Australia for Classic International Cruises and will be the line’s first-ever voyage to Australia from England rather than Italy or France.
The early line voyage to Australia and the departure from the UK means Australian cruise fans who dislike flying- or winter - can sail from Perth on April 15, 2013, to England aboard Athena via the Suez Canal at the end of her 2012/13 season in Australia and after arriving in the UK on May 25, 2013, spend the summer in England or Europe sightseeing or staying with friends and relatives before sailing on September 29, 2013, back to Perth, via South Africa, arriving on November 12, 2013, in time for an Aussie summer!
And unlike tightening airline luggage rules, passengers on the two line voyages can also bring three bags each instead of two, ensuring lots of space for gifts and souvenirs.
And to enable more Australians to experience the traditional, pre-jet age, no-flying option to the UK and back, Classic International Cruise is offering a minimum $1860 per person discount to passengers who combine the two line voyages from Perth to England and back in 2013, with the 40-night northbound voyage next April and the 44-night southbound voyage in September, 2013, available from $10,995 per person, instead of $12,855. The combo fare includes a total of 84 nights aboard Athena as well as all onboard meals and entertainment.
Classic International Cruises Managing Director Grant Hunter said that Athena’s earlier-than-normal Australian season in WA in 2013-14 would include an 18-day annual maintenance drydock for Athena in Asia in November, 2013, with full details of the ship’s 2013-14 Australian program to be released later this year.
“We’re very excited Athena will be back in Australia in 2013-14 for our tenth annual summer season here and I’m sure many Australians will be excited at the opportunity to sail from Perth to England and back next year for a summer in Europe,” Mr Hunter said. “Our loyal passengers love being at sea on a real ocean liner and our voyages between Australia and Europe are always popular so we’re expecting strong demand for our new no-flight option to England can back next year.”
Destinations on Athena’s voyage from Perth on April 15, 2013, to England include Sri Lanka, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Malta, Italy, Morocco and Athena’s home country of Portugal. Her return to Australia from England on September 29, 2013, will see her visit France, Spain, Portugal, the Atlantic islands of St Vincent, Ascension and St Helena, South Africa, Reunion Island and Mauritius.
Carrying only 580 passengers, the 16,000-ton Athena features traditional wooden deck chairs, pool, fitness centre, five bars and lounges, casino, library, cinema and two restaurants. Athena has 277 spacious cabins and each boasts a bath – a luxury only found in suites on the latest superliners.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Friday, 25 May 2012
Cunard Celebrates the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Cunard will bring Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations to a close on the 5th June 2012 with the first-ever Cunard Royal Rendezvous in the fleet’s home port of Southampton, England. Here, the Queen Mary 2, the Queen Victoria and the Queen Elizabeth will approach the port soon after first light, sailing up Southampton Water, with a flotilla of small boats expected to welcome them in.
As the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria tie up at their berths, the QM2 will follow on, passing each ship in turn, with crew lining the foredeck of all three vessels, and the ships’ whistles sounding in salute.
The celebrations will culminate in an evening spectacular where all three ships will be brought within close proximity of each other, and a fusillade of fireworks and special effects will light up the evening sky.
The QM 2 will then lead Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria in single file down the Solent as all three ships set out on their celebratory Jubilee voyages.
On board, Cunard’s renowned Insights enrichment programme will feature lectures by former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond (QM2), Professor Herbert Kerrigan QC, one of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Counsel in Scotland (Queen Victoria); and ITN royal commentator Robert Jobson (Queen Elizabeth).
Additionally, a highly distinguished and rare collection of Royal art, including eight original watercolors by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, 31 lithographs by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and 20 limited edition boxed sets of photographs by Lord Snowdon will be displayed on all three Queens, with limited edition prints available for purchase. This will be the only time that these prints are available for purchase outside the Belgravia Gallery in London.
Guests sailing on board Cunard ships will enjoy the Diamond Jubilee spirit into June 6, when special activities throughout the day will culminate in a Commemorative Dinner with a souvenir menu highlighting the 74-year relationship between Cunard and Her Majesty The Queen, followed by a Grand Ball.
Guests sailing aboard the voyages ending on 5 June will not miss out on any of the historic events taking place in London, or indeed Southampton, as Cunard will screen live BBC World News coverage of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, across the fleet, beginning at 9:00 a.m. (GMT).
The QM2’s Jubilee Voyage is five-nights calling at Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre (5 – 10 June). The Queen Victoria’s 17-night (5 - 22 June) “Adriatic Explorer” voyage will call at La Coruna, Cephalonia, Dubrovnik, Venice (overnight), Split, Corfu and Oporto; and the Queen Elizabeth’s 14-night (5 - 19 June) “St Petersburg and Baltic Explorer” will call at Hamburg, Tallinn, St Petersburg, Stockholm and Copenhagen.
Looking for the latest FABCruise offers on a wide range of cruise holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you
As the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria tie up at their berths, the QM2 will follow on, passing each ship in turn, with crew lining the foredeck of all three vessels, and the ships’ whistles sounding in salute.
The celebrations will culminate in an evening spectacular where all three ships will be brought within close proximity of each other, and a fusillade of fireworks and special effects will light up the evening sky.
The QM 2 will then lead Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria in single file down the Solent as all three ships set out on their celebratory Jubilee voyages.
On board, Cunard’s renowned Insights enrichment programme will feature lectures by former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond (QM2), Professor Herbert Kerrigan QC, one of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Counsel in Scotland (Queen Victoria); and ITN royal commentator Robert Jobson (Queen Elizabeth).
Additionally, a highly distinguished and rare collection of Royal art, including eight original watercolors by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, 31 lithographs by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and 20 limited edition boxed sets of photographs by Lord Snowdon will be displayed on all three Queens, with limited edition prints available for purchase. This will be the only time that these prints are available for purchase outside the Belgravia Gallery in London.
Guests sailing on board Cunard ships will enjoy the Diamond Jubilee spirit into June 6, when special activities throughout the day will culminate in a Commemorative Dinner with a souvenir menu highlighting the 74-year relationship between Cunard and Her Majesty The Queen, followed by a Grand Ball.
Guests sailing aboard the voyages ending on 5 June will not miss out on any of the historic events taking place in London, or indeed Southampton, as Cunard will screen live BBC World News coverage of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, across the fleet, beginning at 9:00 a.m. (GMT).
The QM2’s Jubilee Voyage is five-nights calling at Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre (5 – 10 June). The Queen Victoria’s 17-night (5 - 22 June) “Adriatic Explorer” voyage will call at La Coruna, Cephalonia, Dubrovnik, Venice (overnight), Split, Corfu and Oporto; and the Queen Elizabeth’s 14-night (5 - 19 June) “St Petersburg and Baltic Explorer” will call at Hamburg, Tallinn, St Petersburg, Stockholm and Copenhagen.
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