Saturday, March 31, 2012

Judge Holding Carnival Triumph In Galveston

Legal Motion
Filed in Galveston
Carnival Triumph
Departure Held

In a bizarre turn of events, a Federal Judge issued an order  holding the Carnival Triumph in the port of Galveston.


UPDATE:  Carnival Triumph to Sail on Schedule after Carnival Corp. reaches an agreement with the Federal Court

Result of Costa Concordia Litigation
The litigation in question relates to a $10M lawsuit brought about by a passenger who sailed on the Costa Concordia in Italy this past January. The Costa Concordia is a vessel operated by Costa Cruises. Carnival Cruise Lines and Costa Cruises are both part of a global organization called Carnival Corporation & plc, however, the two cruise lines operate completely independently.

Port of Galveston Director Mike Mierzwa recommended passengers continue on with plans to sail today in the event Carnival can resolve legal issues.

A federal judge Friday ordered the cruise ship held in Galveston as part a $10 million lawsuit filed by the family of a German tourist who died aboard the Costa Concordia shipwreck off the Italian coast, according to Bloomberg news service.

The Triumph apparently was ordered held because it is home-ported in Galveston, which is in the U.S. District Court system's Southern District of Texas. It was not clear why the litigation was filed in Texas rather than in some other federal district. 

“The court finds that the conditions for an attachment of defendants’ joint and collective property within this district, mainly the MS Carnival Triumph, appear to exist upon an admiralty and maritime claim,” U.S. Magistrate Judge John Froeschner of Galveston said in the warrant, Bloomberg reports.

The Carnival Triumph would be allowed to unload passengers and cargo and move between berths within the port until a “prompt hearing” can be scheduled, at which “the plaintiff shall be required to show why the attachment and garnishment should not be vacated,” according to the order, Bloomberg reports.


Senior Carnival Cruise Director, John Heald writes on his blog:
"We want to assure you that we are working diligently through the appropriate legal channels to get this matter resolved as soon as possible. We are optimistic the issues regarding the Carnival Triumph will be resolved and the ship will depart on its scheduled voyage later today.

In the meantime, we are proceeding with our normal embarkation process."

Carnival Triumph is scheduled to depart at  6 PM local time on a five-day cruise to Yucatan and Cozumel.

According to John Heald,  the safety briefing has been held and the U.S. Marshall's should be clearing the ship for an on-time departure.   2012 continues to be an abnormal year for the cruise industry.

We will do our best to bring you the latest news, so we do hope you bookmark this blog and also become fans on our Facebook Page.





Royal Caribbean to Retire Monarch OTS

Final Year
3&4-Night
Bahamas
Cruises


Sailing Now Thru
March 31 2013


Royal Caribbean International

Monarch of the Seas®

Monarch of the Seas, will be leaving the Royal Caribbean fleet to sail for sister line Pullmantur. Tue ship is the oldest in the fleet, having sailed its maiden voyage in November, 1991. It will continue sailing 3 & 4-night Bahamas cruises thru it's final 3-night voyage March 29, 2013. The ship currently sails from Port Canaveral in Florida.

The 2,390-passenger, 73,941-ton ship will enter service for Pullmantur after a significant refurbishment. It will join its sister ship Sovereign (formerly Royal Caribbean's Sovereign of the Seas), which transferred over in 2008.

Gonzalo Chico Barbier, president and CEO of Pullmantur said "The transfer of Monarch of the Seas will reinforce Pullmantur in our Latin American growth strategy, and help us become one of the most widely recognized brands." 

Cruisers on the West Coast will remember Monarch as a main-stay serving San Diego with short weekend cruises to Ensenada, Mexico and Baja California. Many Crown & Anchor members frequently the ship which served as a training ground for crew members. Often the Monarch was the first ship to try something new, so it was a favorite ship of those travelers. It will certainly be missed by those that have fond memories of cruises gone by.

Ship Profile & Stats
Maiden Voyage 1991 (Refurbished: 2003)
Passengers (dbl) 2,766
Tonnage 73,937 Tons
Normal Crew Size 858
Length 880 feet
Crew Nationality International
Beam 106 feet
Nationality of Officers Norwegian
Draft 25 feet
Nationality of Dining Staff International
Speed 19 knots
Registration Country Norway

Friday, March 30, 2012

Azamara Quest Engine Room Fire


Azamara Quest Engine Fire

No Guest Injuries Reported 

Five Crew Members Injured

Click for Updates (Below)

Azamara Club Cruises is reporting an engine fire broke out on March 30, at approximately 8:19 PM (8:19 AM EST) ship time. The fire was contained to the engine room and was quickly extinguished. There were no injuries of guests reported and the atmosphere aboard is calm. However, in an abundance of caution, the Captain initially mustered all guests at their assembly stations.

Power Restored

Engineers onboard Azamara Quest have restored power to one of the ship’s engines. This additional power has permitted the ship to reestablish air conditioning, running water, plumbing, refrigeration and food preparation onboard for the comfort of our guests and crew. While the ship does not have propulsion capabilities at this time, it is in the process of being repaired.

Ship's Location

Azamara Quest is still located 200 miles off the coast of Balikpapan (Borneo), Indonesia, in calm seas.

Azamara Quest is currently on a 17-night sailing that departed Hong Kong, China, on Monday, March 26, and includes port calls to Manila, Philippines; Balikpapan (Borneo), Palapo (Sulawesi), Benoa Bali, Semarang and Komodo, Indonesia and concludes in Singapore on Thursday, April 12.


Updates


Azamara Quest - April 24, 2012 sailing


April 17, 2012, 5:00 pm E.S.T.


Azamara Quest engine damage has been repaired and the ship is heading for Mubai, India for the next scheduled sailing, April 24th.  Read more ...  Azamara Quest Resuming Cruises


Guests who have any additional questions regarding Azamara Quest may call toll free 1.888.829.4050 from the United States and Canada. Guests outside the United States may call direct or collect to 1.408.916.9001.


Crew Member Recovering

 Azamara Club Cruises reports:  "We are pleased to report that the condition of the Azamara Quest crew member that was more severely injured continues to improve. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our crew member and his family. Azamara Club Cruises would like to thank everyone for their thoughtfulness and concern regarding our injured crew member."



April 11, 2012, 10:30 a.m. E.S.T.

Azamara Quest arrived in Singapore ahead of schedule, and the repairs to the damage caused by the engine room fire are proceeding as planned. We continue to be pleased with the progress that has been made on the ship, and are on schedule to complete the necessary work before Azamara Quest’s next scheduled sailing from Mumbai (Bombay), India on Tuesday, April 24.
 
Current Cruise to Terminate 
in Sandakan (Sabah), Malaysia

April 12th Sailing Also Cancelled


Azamara Club Cruises will continue to closely monitor the situation onboard Azamara Quest and provide updates on their Facebook Page and Website.  The following Alert Page has been established as well:
Azamara Quest - March 26, 2012 sailing 

April 4, 2012, 2:00 p.m. E.S.T.

Since Sunday, April 1, Azamara Quest has remained in Sandakan while teams onboard assessed the damage caused by the engine fire, and gather the necessary information in order to make a decision regarding the next voyage.  Assessment such as these can be complicated, and all facts must be gathered before a decision can be reached.

Unfortunately, due to the time needed to repair the damage caused by the fire, it is necessary to cancel Azamara Quest’s next voyage, which was scheduled to depart Singapore on April 12.  "We do not take any decision that impacts our guests’ vacations lightly, and are deeply sorry that this unexpected development has affected those guests’ upcoming vacation." said Azamara's statement.

They will be notifying impacted guests directly or through their travel agents. 

April 3, 2012, 5:30 p.m. E.S.T.

A team of engineers continues to assess the situation onboard Azamara Quest and gather the necessary information in order to make a decision regarding the next voyage. The official statement indicates that they don't take a decision that impacts guests vacation plans lightly.

Meanwhile, all passengers have left for Singapore onboard five chartered planes.  They will continue their vacation in hotels arranged by the cruise line. 

April 2, 2012, 5:00 p.m. E.S.T.

Teams onboard Azamara Quest continue to assess the damage caused by the engine fire. Azamara officials  anticipate receiving a full assessment late this evening that will provide them with sufficient information to make a decision regarding the next voyage. 

April 1, 2012, 10:30 a.m. E.S.T.

Azamara Quest arrived at Sandakan (Sabah), Malaysia, on April 1, 2012, at approximately 9:23 p.m. local time.The seriously injured crew member was transferred to the hospital.

Guests have the option of staying on the vessel, which has no air conditioning at present, or be transferred to Singapore where they can continue their vacation in hotels that are being set up.

"I would like to sincerely thank our amazing Azamara Quest guests for their patience and understanding,” said Larry Pimentel, president and chief executive officer of Azamara Club Cruises. “We understand that this was a difficult journey, and we appreciate their upbeat and positive attitude. We look forward to welcoming them back soon.”
 
“I would also like to commend the crew onboard Azamara Quest, not just for their valiant and courageous efforts during the fire, but for the way they have worked tirelessly to make our guests as happy and comfortable as possible until the ship arrived in port. The entire crew has been absolutely brilliant, and I couldn’t be prouder of the exemplary way each and every one of them responded to this incident.” 

Cruise Critic members who were onboard, have posted about their experiences.   They indicate that it was a serious situation and that there was some confusion, especially with smoke filling parts of the ship forcing them to muster in other areas.  

One member writes that the food was basic due to the limited power.  While at the muster station, they had asked the Chef what they would be eating the rest of the cruise.  The chef replied  " smoked fish, smoked chicken and smoked beef".   They commented that the comic sense of humor was appreciated by the passengers.

March 31, 2012, 9:30 a.m. E.S.T.

Engineers onboard Azamara Quest have been able to restore propulsion to the ship.

Azamara Quest is currently sailing directly to Sandakan (Sabah), Malaysia at between three to six knots. Based on this speed, the ship is expected to arrive in Sandakan within 24 to 48 hours.

March 30, 2012, 11:30 p.m. E.S.T.

Engineers onboard Azamara Quest continue to work on restoring propulsion to the ship. Once they have restored the ship’s propulsion, Azamara Quest will sail directly to Sandakan (Sabah), Malaysia.

When propulsion has been restored to the ship, Azamara will be able to provide an estimated time of arrival. Until then, they will be working with our guests to determine how to best assist them with next steps and travel arrangements.

Larry Pimentel, president and chief executive officer, will be flying to Sandakan in order to meet with Azamara Quest guests personally. Mr. Pimentel is scheduled to arrive in Malaysia on Monday morning, local time.

5 Crew Suffer Smoke Inhalation Injuries

Unfortunately, five crew members onboard the ship suffered smoke inhalation during the fire. The crew members are being treated in our medical facility. However, one crew member is more seriously injured and requires additional and urgent medical attention that can only be provided in a hospital. Once the ship arrives in Sandakan, the crew member will be immediately transported to a local area hospital.

Cancellation of Rest of Cruise
Update for Next Sailing (Apr 12) on Monday

The damage caused by the fire will require the cancellation of the rest of Azamara Quest’s voyage once the ship arrives in Sandakan.  Guests on the April 12, 2012, sailing of Azamara Quest are encouraged  to monitor Azamara Club Cruises' Facebook Page or website on Monday, April 2 for an update on their voyage. 

Azamara is offering guests on the stricken ship a full refund for the cruise and a certificate for a future cruise worth 100% of the cruise fare paid for their March 26, 2012, Azamara Quest sailing. 

Contact Info
If you have specific questions regarding Azamara Quest, you may call toll free 1.888.829.4050 from the United States and Canada. Guest outside the United States may call direct or collect to 1.408.916.9001.
 

We will continue to monitor this developing story.


About Azamara Quest 

Azamara Quest is one of the R-Ships,TM of the fleet from Renaissance Cruises®






Ship Profile | Itineraries & Pricing | Deck Plans | Ship Reviews | Photos

Ship Profile & Stats
Maiden Voyage 2000 (Refurbished: 2007)
Passengers (dbl) 684
Tonnage 30,277 Tons
Normal Crew Size 350
Length 593 feet
Crew Nationality N/A
Beam 95 feet
Nationality of Officers N/A
Draft 18 feet
Nationality of Dining Staff N/A
Speed 22 knots
Registration Country Malta
 
 

We are happy to hear no guests were injured in this accident, and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured crew members. Safety of guests and crew are of utmost concern to cruise lines. Fire is the biggest danger on a ship and crews train on a regular basis. It would appear that the training paid off here, as the fire was contained to the engine room and quickly extinguished.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Celebrity Cruises Sisters Meet in Europe for 2013 Season


Where Europe vacation dreams
become a reality.
2013 Europe Deployment

Celebrity SilhouetteSM

Celebrity Silhouette – honored with a Gold award for "Best Premium Ship" in Travel Weekly's annual Magellan Awards, and the first to enhance Celebrity's industry-first Lawn Club with The Lawn Club Grill, The Porch, The Alcoves and the Art Studio – will offer a blend of 10- to 13-night roundtrip sailings from romantic Venice, as well as voyages to and from Venice and/or Rome. With one to two days at sea on each sailing, the itineraries were expressly designed to offer a destination-rich vacation, including towns along the Adriatic coast, as well as multiple locations in Greece and Turkey.

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
15-Night
Transatlantic Cruise
Apr 14 Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Cococay, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Phillipsburg, St. Maarten; Madeira (Funchal), Portugal; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

12-Night Eastern
Mediterranean &
Greek Isles Cruise
Apr 29; Jun 03; Aug 12; Sep 26
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece; Venice, Italy (overnight)
11-Night Italy &
Croatia Cruis
May 11; Jun 15 Venice, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Kotor, Montenegro; Split, Croatia; Venice, Italy (overnight)

12-Night
Adriatic Cruise
Jul 31 Venice, Italy (overnight); Koper, Slovenia; Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Bari, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
13-Night
Adriatic Cruise
Jun 26 Venice, Italy (overnight); Koper, Slovenia; Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Bari, Italy; Corfu, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples (Salerno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

10-Night Eastern
Mediterranean &
Greek Isles Cruise
Jul 09
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Venice, Italy (overnight)
12-Night Italy &
Croatia Cruise
Jul 19 Venice, Italy; Ravenna, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Rome
(Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Kotor, Montenegro; Split, Croatia; Venice, Italy

12-Night Eastern
Mediterranean &
Greek Isles Cruise
Sep 03 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Mykonos, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece; Venice, Italy (overnight)
11-Night
Adriatic Cruise
Sep 15 Venice, Italy (overnight), Koper, Slovenia; Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Valletta, Malta; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

11-Night
Adriatic Cruise
Oct 08 Venice, Italy (overnight), Koper, Slovenia; Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Valletta, Malta; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
12-Night Eastern
Mediterranean &
Greek Isles Cruise
Oct 19 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Mykonos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece; Venice, Italy (overnight)
13-Night
Adriatic Cruise
Oct 31 Venice, Italy (overnight); Koper, Slovenia; Ravenna, Italy; Split, Croatia; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Bari, Italy; Corfu, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
13-Night Italy &
Adriatic Cruise
Nov 18 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Corfu, Greece; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Ravenna, Italy; Venice, Italy (overnight); Catania, Sicily, Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
14-Night
Transatlantic Cruise
Dec 01 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy;
Provence (Toulon), France; Barcelona, Spain; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Fort Lauderdale, Florida




Celebrity EquinoxSM

Celebrity Equinox – named "Best Overall" in the discerning Cruise Critic's Cruisers' Choice Awards (North America), and one of three Solstice Class ships to mesmerize guests with The Hot Glass Show offered in association with The Corning Museum of Glass – will present a full season of 12-night sailings roundtrip from Barcelona, Spain, with the majority of the cruises featuring visits to Florence (Livorno), Naples and Adriatic ports, in addition to an overnight stay in Venice. The ship's alternating itineraries include visits to Naples, Athens, Ephesus (Kusadasi), the Greek Isles and Valletta, Malta.


DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
15-Night Eastbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Apr 15 Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Lanzarote, Canary Islands; Lisbon, Portugal; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Barcelona, Spain

12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Apr 30; Oct 08, 20 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Barcelona, Spain

12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
May 17 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy (overnight); Kotor, Montenegro; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
May 29 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy (overnight); Kotor, Montenegro; Naples/Capri, Italy; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Italy &
Greek Isles Cruise
Jun 10; Jul 28; Sep 14 Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Santorini, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Valletta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain

12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Jun 22
Barcelona, Spain; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy (overnight); Kotor, Montenegro; Naples (Salerno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Nice (Villefranche), France; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Jul 4,  16; Sep 26
Barcelona, Spain; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Venice, Italy (overnight); Kotor, Montenegro; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Nice (Villefranche), France; Barcelona, Spain

12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Aug 09 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence/Pisa
(Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Aug 21 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence/Pisa
(Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Dubrovnik, Crotia; Venice, Italy (overnight); Kotor, Montenegro; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Sep 02 Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; La Spezia, Italy; Rome
(Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Kotor, Montenegro;
Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Italy &
Greek Isles Cruise
Nov 01 Barcelona, Spain; Valletta, Malta; Athens (Piraeus), Greece;
Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Barcelona, Spain
12-Night Venice
Overnight Cruise
Nov 13 Barcelona, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; La Spezia,
Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples/Capri, Italy; Kotor,
Montenegro; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia;
Barcelona, Spain
14-Night Westbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Nov 25 Barcelona, Spain; Cartagena, Spain; Malaga, Spain; Seville
(Cadiz), Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Fort Lauderdale, Florida


Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Celebrity Reflection and Constellation Europe 2013


Where Europe vacation dreams
become a reality.
2013 Europe Deployment


Celebrity ReflectionSM

Celebrity Reflection – which sets sail in October of this year, complete with the brand's first "Signature Suites" and jaw-dropping, two-bedroom "Reflection Suite," complete with a sea-view bathroom extending out over the edge of the ship, a veranda tub with soothing rain shower, and panoramic views courtesy of the wraparound veranda – will present a full season of 10- and 11-night sailings roundtrip from Rome. The 10-night itinerary features visits to Sicily, Italy; Athens, Greece and the Greek Isles, and Kusadasi, Turkey, while the 11-night sailing also features an overnight stay in Istanbul.

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
16-Night Eastbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Apr 20 Miami, Florida; Tenerife, Canary, Islands; Lanzarote, Canary, Islands; Barcelona, Spain; Provence (Toulon), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

10-Night Eastern
Mediterranean Cruise
May 17; Jun 07, 28; Jul 19: Aug 09, 30;Sep 20; Oct 11 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Sicily (Messina), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Mykonos, Greece; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
11-Night Eastern
Mediterranean Cruise
May 06 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Santorini, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Istanbul, Turkey (overnight); Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

11-Night Eastern
Mediterranean Cruise
May 27; Jun 17; Jul 08, 29; Aug 19; Sep 30; Oct 21 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Santorini, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey (overnight); Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Naples/Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
15-Night Westbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Nov 01 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Miami, Florida



Celebrity Constellation®

Celebrity Constellation Рfeaturing guest-favorite enhancements incorporated in the line's Solsticizing initiative, including the Tuscan Grille specialty restaurant, Cellar Masters wine bar and Caf̩ al Bacio and Gelateria, among other venues and, by Spring of 2013, new AquaClass accommodations with exclusive access to the Mediterranean specialty restaurant, Blu Рfrom May through August 2013 will present seven Scandinavia/Russia cruises, an Arctic Circle voyage and a Norwegian Fjords sailing, all roundtrip from Amsterdam. Then, from Istanbul, the ship will set sail on two new 12-night Black Sea & Greek Isles sailings, highlighted by an overnight stay in Odessa, Ukraine; visits to Sevastopol and Yalta, Ukraine, and Celebrity's first visit to Varna, Bulgaria. Celebrity Constellation will round out her summer season with four 12-night Greek Isles & Turkey voyages, all roundtrip from Istanbul.

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
15-Night Eastbound
Transatlantic Cruise
May 05 Miami, Florida; Madeira (Funchal), Portugal; Lisbon, Portugal; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France; Dover, England; Amsterdam, Netherlands
12-Night Scandinavia
& Russia Cruise
May 20; Jun 01; Aug 24 Amsterdam, Netherlands; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany;
Stockholm, Sweden; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight); Tallinn, Estonia; Copenhagen, Denmark; Amsterdam, Netherlands
10-Night Norwegian
Fjords Cruise
May 24; Jun 14; Jul 05 Harwich, England; Oslo, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Olden, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Flam, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Harwich, England
12-Night Scandinavia
& Russia Cruise 
Aug 12 Amsterdam, Netherlands; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany;
Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinnn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight); Helsinki, Finalnd; Copenhagen, Denmark; Amsterdam, Netherlands
12-Arctic
Circle Cruise 
Jun 13 Amsterdam, Netherlands; Arctic Circle (Crossing); Leknes
(Lofoten), Norway; Arctic Circle; Longyearbyen, Norway; Arctic Circle; Honningsvag, Norway; Arctic Circle (Crossing); Molde, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Amsterdam, Netherlands
12-Night Norwegian
Fjord Cruise
Jun 25 Amsterdam, Netherlands; Bergen, Norway; Olden, Norway;
Molde, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Skjolden, Norway; Flam, Norway; Oslo, Norway; Amsterdam, Netherlands
12-Night Scandinavia
& Russia Cruise

Jul 07, 19, 31
Amsterdan, Netherlands; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany;
Stockholm, Sweden; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight); Tallinn, Estonia; Copenhagen, Denmark; Amsterdam, Netherlands


Tuesday, March 27, 2012

The Sea is Calling You to Independence



INDEPENDENCE of the SEAS®

2013 Summer Europe Deployment

Independence is seasonally dedicated to Europe giving you more options for a summer vacation abroad. This Freedom class ship provides you with some of our most exciting signature features like the FlowRider® surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, ice-skating rink, cantilevered whirlpools, Royal Promenade, mini golf course, and much more!

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
14-Night Transatlantic Eastbound Apr 07 Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau,
Bahamas • Cruising • San Juan, Puerto
Rico • Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Cruising • Southampton, England

2-Night Sampler
May 02
Southampton, England • Paris /
Normandy (Le Havre), France
Southampton, England
14-Night Canaries & Spain May 04 Southampton, England • Cruising
Vigo, Spain • Lisbon, Portugal
Cruising • Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands • Tenerife,
Canary Islands • La Palma, Canary
Islands • Cruising • Madeira (Funchal),
Portugal • Cruising • La Coruna, Spain
Cruising • Southampton, England
18-Night Norway May 18 Southampton, England • Cruising
Flam, Norway • Skjolden, Norway
Olden, Norway • Alesund, Norway
Stavanger, Norway • Cruising
Southampton, England
6-Night Norway May 26 Southampton, England • Cruising
Oslo, Norway • Kristiansand, Norway
Stavanger, Norway • Cruising
Southampton, England

14-Night Norway-Cork
Jun 01; Sep 07 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cork (Cobh), Ireland • Cruising
Cruising • Olden, Norway • Alesund,
Norway • Flam, Norway • Stavanger,
Norway • Kristiansand, Norway
Oslo, Norway • Cruising • Bruges
(Zeebrugge), Belgium • Cruising
Southampton, England
14-Night Italian Mediterranean Jun 25; Jul 13; Aug 10 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Gibraltar, United Kingdom
Cruising • Provence (Toulon), France
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy • Ajaccio,
Corsica • Cruising • Seville (Cadiz),
Spain • Lisbon, Portugal • Vigo, Spain
Cruising • Southampton, England

14-Night Spanish Mediterranean
Jun 29; Jul 27; Aug 24 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Vigo, Spain • Lisbon,
Portugal • Cruising • Valencia, Spain
Barcelona, Spain • Palma De Mallorca,
Spain • Ibiza, Spain • Cruising • Seville (Cadiz), Spain • Cruising • Cruising
Southampton, England
12-Night Mediterranean Sep 21 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Gibraltar, United Kingdom
Cartagena, Spain • Barcelona, Spain
Palma De Mallorca, Spain • Cruising
Seville (Cadiz), Spain • Lisbon, Portugal
Vigo, Spain • Cruising • Southampton,
England
11-Night Canaries Oct 03 Southampton, England • Cruising
Vigo, Spain • Lisbon, Portugal • Cruising
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands • Tenerife,
Canary Islands • Madeira (Funchal),
Portugal • Cruising • La Coruna, Spain
Cruising • Southampton, England
12-Night Canaries Oct 14 Southampton, England • Cruising
Vigo, Spain • Lisbon, Portugal
Cruising • Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands • Tenerife,
Canary Islands • Madeira (Funchal),
Portugal • Cruising • La Coruna, Spain
Cruising • Southampton, England
3-Night Sampler Oct 26 Southampton, England • Bruges (Zeebrugge),
Belgium • Paris / Normandy
(Le Havre), France • Southampton,
England

4-Night Sampler
Oct 29 Southampton, England • Paris /
Normandy (Le Havre), France
Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium • Cruising
Southampton, England
13-Night Transatlantic Nov 02 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Philipsburg, St. Maarten • San Juan,
Puerto Rico • Cruising • Cococay,
Bahamas • Fort Lauderdale, Florida

All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. ©2012 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd Ships registry: The Bahamas. 12028

Monday, March 26, 2012

The Sea is Calling You To Adventure in Europe




ADVENTURE of the SEAS®
2013 Summer Europe Deployment


Adventure is seasonally dedicated to Europe giving you more options for a summer vacation abroad. This Voyager class ship is packed with all the action of our signature innovations—and plenty of time for relaxation, fine dining, and beautiful ocean views. Guests can climb a rock wall that overlooks the sea, or challenge themselves on the basketball court, ice-skating rink or mini-golf course.

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
14-Night Transatlantic Apr 21 San Juan, Puerto Rico • Charlotte
Amalie, St. Thomas • Philipsburg, St.
Maarten • Castries, St. Lucia • Basseterre,
St. Kitts • Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Cruising • Cruising • Ponta Delgada,
Azores • Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Southampton, England

2-Night Sampler
May 05
Southampton, England • Cruising
Southampton, England
2-Night Sampler May 07 Southampton, England
Paris / Normandy (Le Havre), France
Southampton, England
15-Night Central Mediterranean  May 09 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Gibraltar, United Kingdom
Cruising • Barcelona, Spain
Nice (Villefranche), France
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy • Cruising
Seville (Cadiz), Spain • Lisbon, Portugal
Cruising • Cruising • Southampton,
England
7-Night France & Spain May 24 Southampton, England • Cruising
Vigo, Spain • Gijon, Spain • Bilbao,
Spain • Cruising • Paris / Normandy
(Le Havre), France • Southampton,
England

13-Night Iceland & Norway
May 31 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Reykjavik, Iceland (Overnight)
• Akureyri, Iceland • Cruising
Trondheim, Norway • Alesund, Norway
Molde, Norway • Olden, Norway
Stavanger, Norway • Cruising
Southampton, England
12-Night Baltic  Jun 13, 25 Southampton, England • Cruising
Oslo, Norway • Copenhagen, Denmark
Cruising • Tallinn, Estonia • St. Petersburg,
Russia (Overnight) • Helsinki,
Finland • Cruising • Cruising • Bruges
(Zeebrugge), Belgium • Southampton,
England

14-Night Mediterranean Cities
Jul 07 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Malaga, Spain • Cruising
Cannes, France • Barcelona, Spain
Palma De Mallorca, Spain • Valencia,
Spain • Cartagena, Spain • Cruising
Lisbon, Portugal • Vigo, Spain • Cruising
Southampton, England

14-Night Italian Mediterranean 
Jul 21 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Malaga, Spain • Cruising
Cannes, France • Rome (Civitavecchia),
Italy • Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Genoa, Italy • Cruising • Gibraltar,
United Kingdom • Lisbon, Portugal
Cruising • Cruising • Southampton,
England
14-Night Italian Mediterranean Aug 04 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Malaga, Spain • Cruising
Nice (Villefranche), France • Rome
(Civitavecchia), Italy • La Spezia,
Italy Genoa, Italy • Cruising • Gibraltar,
United Kingdom • Lisbon, Portugal
Cruising • Cruising • Southampton,
England

7-Night Norway
Aug 18, 25 Southampton, England • Cruising
Alesund, Norway • Skjolden, Norway
Flam, Norway •Stavanger, Norway
Cruising • Southampton, England


12-Night Iceland & Norway
Sep 01 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Reykjavik, Iceland (Overnight)
• Akureyri, Iceland • Cruising
Trondheim, Norway • Alesund, Norway
Olden, Norway • Stavanger, Norway
Cruising • Southampton, England

16-Night Central Mediterranean 
Sep 13 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Gibraltar, United Kingdom
Cruising • Barcelona, Spain • Nice
(Villefranche), France • Florence / Pisa
(Livorno), Italy • Rome (Civitavecchia),
Italy • Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy • Cruising
Malaga, Spain • Seville (Cadiz), Spain
Lisbon, Portugal • Cruising • Cruising
Southampton, England

14-Night Spain & Canaries
Sep 29 Southampton, England • Cruising
Gijon, Spain • Vigo, Spain • Cruising
Madeira (Funchal), Portugal • Tenerife,
Canary Islands • Gran Canaria,
Canary Islands • Cruising • Lanzarote,
Canary Islands • Cruising • Lisbon,
Portugal • Cruising • Cruising •
Southampton, England

14-Night Western Mediterranean
Oct 13 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Malaga, Spain • Cruising
Cannes, France • Barcelona, Spain
Palma De Mallorca, Spain • Valencia,
Spain • Cartagena, Spain • Cruising
Lisbon, Portugal • Vigo, Spain
Cruising • Southampton, England


8-Night France & Spain
Oct 27 Southampton, England • Cherbourg,
France • Cruising • Vigo, Spain
Gijon, Spain • Bilbao, Spain • Cruising
Paris / Normandy (Le Havre), France
Southampton, England


13-Night Transatlantic
Nov 04 Southampton, England • Cruising
Cruising • Madeira (Funchal), Portugal
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Cruising • Cruising • Cruising
Philipsburg, St. Maarten • Basseterre,
St. Kitts • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
San Juan, Puerto Rico

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Viking Longboats Christened



Garlands of red & white balloons, what seemed like acres of red carpet, 
some fireworks, a pirouetting fireboat spraying water jets
 & a tenor belting out "Nessun Dorma" before a crowd of 600...
 the Viking Longships are here!

Viking River Christens 4 New Longboats in Amsterdam  (Courtesy Viking River)

Historic Christening 
Four Viking River Longships
In One Day

As we reported in our Viking River Cruises Longships Update, two of the ships are still under construction and will debut mid-April.

Amsterdam Ceremony

(March 21, 2012) Garlands of red & white balloons, what seemed like acres of red carpet, some fireworks, a pirouetting fireboat spraying water jets & a tenor belting out "Nessun Dorma" before a crowd of 600... the Viking Longships are here!

The Viking River Cruises launch of four ships during a single ceremony, breaks the previous  record for multiple and simultaneous christenings (three), which it also held.

Viking Odin and Viking Idun, were named in Amsterdam and two, Viking Freya and Viking Njord, by live video link at the yard in Rostock, where they're being finished off for a mid-April debut. Four godmothers cut scarlet ribbons and four bottles of Veuve Cliquot, two in Amsterdam and two in Rostock, smashed to cheers of a 600-strong crowd gathered in Amsterdam under dazzling sunshine.

The Godmothers
 
Joanna Lumley (left), star of "Absolutely Fabulous," christened Viking Odin, a ship named after the chief god of Norse mythology. "I've never been godmother to a god before," she told the delighted crowd.

Gail Wiswedel (second from left), who named Viking Njord, was chosen because she's Viking's most travelled customer, having notched up 11 cruises (which goes to show how young river cruising really is, given that plenty of ocean-going passengers would consider nothing less than 30 as an impressive total).

Dr Lisa Randall (third from left), Viking Idun's godmother, is a respected theoretical physicist, a subject close to the heart of Viking's Norwegian founder, Torstein Hagen, who himself holds a degree in nuclear physics.

Award-winning TV producer Rebecca Eaton, who served as godmother for Viking Freya, heads up "Masterpiece Theatre," a company sponsored by Viking.


Christening Tradition

Shipbuilding is filled with tradition.  Wine poured upon the deck before a long voyage represents a libation to the gods which will bring good luck. "Christening" a ship by breaking a bottle of champagne across her bow at the time of launching arose from this practice.  Read more about Nautical Superstitions & Legends.

About the Longships
 
The four ships  which feature full balconies, indoor-outdoor dining and chic interiors, are pretty well sold out for the rest of the year. These are only the first in a series with eight more sisters coming. Two Longships, Viking Embla and Viking Aegir, will debut this summer, and six more are scheduled to hit the rivers in 2013.    (Also see:  Viking River Cruises 2012 Fleet Upgrades)


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Celebrity Europe 2013 Deployment



Where Northern Europe vacation  dreams become a reality.
2013 Europe Deployment


Celebrity Infinity – the second of four Millennium Class ships to complete Celebrity's ambitious, $140-million 'Solsticizing' initiative, incorporating a host of guest-favorite venues and experiences from the Solstice Class, such as the hip Celebrity iLounge, the eclectic Qsine specialty restaurant, and AquaClass accommodations with exclusive access to the Mediterranean specialty restaurant, Blu – will make her European debut in 2013, offering new 10- and 11-night British Isles, Norwegian Fjords and Iceland & Fjords itineraries roundtrip from Harwich, England.

Celebrity Infinity®

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
12-Night Eastbound
Transatlantic Cruise
May 01 Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Ponta Delgada, Azores; Cherbourg, France; Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium; Harwich, England
11-Night British Isles Cruise May 13 Harwich, England; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France; St. Peter Port, Channel Islands; Cork (Cobh), Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; Liverpool, England; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland; Inverness/Loch Ness, Scotland; Harwich, England
10-Night Norwegian
Fjords Cruise
May 24; Jun 14; Jul 05 Harwich, England; Oslo, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Olden, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Flam, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Harwich, England
11-Night British Isles
Cruise
Jun 03 Harwich, England; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France; St. Peter Port, Channel Islands; Cork (Cobh), Ireland; Waterford (Dunmore East), Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; Liverpool, England; Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland; Inverness/Loch Ness, Scotland; Harwich, England
11-Night Iceland & Fjord
Cruise
Jun 24; Jul 15 Harwich, England; Torshavn, Faroe Islands; Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight); Akureyri, Iceland; Geiranger, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Harwich, England
10-Night Norwegian
Fjords Cruise
Jul 26 Harwich, England; Oslo, Norway; Kristiansand, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Flam, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Harwich, England
11-Night British Isles
Cruise
Aug 05 Harwich, England; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France; St. Peter Port, Channel Islands; Cork (Cobh), Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; Liverpool, England; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland (overnight); Iverness/Loch Ness, Scotland; Harwich, England
10-Night Norwegian
Fjord Cruise
Aug 16 Harwich, England; Oslo, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Flam, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Olden, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Harwich, England
11-Night British Isles
Cruise
Aug 26 Harwich, England; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France; St. Peter Port, Channel Islands, Waterfront (Dunmore East), Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; Liverpool, England; Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland; Iverness/Loch Ness, Scotland; Harwich, England
12-Immersive Wine
Cruise
Sep 06, 18, 30; Oct 12 Harwich, England; Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), France (overnight); Bordeaux (Le Verdon), France (overnight); Bilbao, Spain (overnight); Vigo, Spain; Porto, Portugal; Harwich, England
14-Night Westbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Oct 24 Harwich, England; La Rochelle, France; Gijon, Spain; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Nassau, Bahamas; Miami, Florida




Celebrity Eclipse – named "Best from the UK" in Cruise Critic's Cruisers' Choice Awards (UK), and the first ship to debut the hip Celebrity iLounge and the eclectic Qsine specialty restaurant – will continue to offer a mix of distinct 14-night Mediterranean, Scandinavia/Russia, Iceland/Norwegian Fjords and Canary Islands/Azores holidays roundtrip from Southampton.

Celebrity Eclipse®

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) 2013 ITINERARY
13-Night Eastbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Apr 20 Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Southampton, England

8-Night Norwegian Fjord
Cruise
May 03 Southampton, England; Molde, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Flam, Norway; Bergen, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Southampton, England
14-Night Mediterranean
Cruise
May 11 Southampton, England; Malaga, Spain; Provence (Toulon), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Nice (Villefranche), France; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Lisbon, Portugal; Southampton, England
14-Night Scandinavia &
Russia Cruise
May 25; Jun 08,22; Jul 20; Aug 17 Southampton, England; Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany; Stockholm, Sweden; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight); Tallinn, Estonia; Copenhagen, Denmark; Southampton, England
14-Night Iceland & Fjord
Cruise
Jul 06 Southampton, England; Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight); Akureyri, Iceland; Klaksvik, Faroe Islands; Geiranger, Norway; Flam, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Kristiansand, Norway; Southampton, England
14-Night Iceland & Fjord
Cruise
Aug 03 Southampton, England; Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight); Akureyri, Iceland; Klaksvik, Faroe Islands; Geiranger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Olden, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Southampton, England
8-Night Norwegian Fjord
Cruise
Aug 31 Southampton, England; Bergen, Norway; Flam, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; Southampton, England
14-Night Mediterranean
Cruise
Sep 08, 22 Southampton, England; Malaga, Spain; Nice (Villefranche), France; Rome, (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Genoa, Italy; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Lisbon, Portugal; Southampton, England
14-Night Canaries &
Azores Cruise
Oct 06, 20 Southampton, England; Ponta Delgada, Azores; Madeira (Funchal), Portugal; Tenerife, Canary Islands; Gran Canaria, Canary Islands; Fuerteventura, Canary Islands; Lanzarote, Canary Islands; Lisbon, P ortugal; Southampton, England
13-Night Westbound
Transatlantic Cruise
Nov 03 Southampton, England; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Nassau, Bahamas; Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Celebrity Cruises 2013 Alaska Deployment


Being supremely spoiled
in an unspoiled land

2013 Alaska Deployment

The sleek, 2,850-guest flagship of the Solstice Class fleet, Celebrity Solstice – named "Best Premium Ship" in Travel Weekly's annual Readers' Choice Awards (US) – will become the first of its class to offer vacations in Alaska in the summer of 2013, joining Celebrity Century and Celebrity Millennium in pairing Celebrity's chic style and design, signature cuisine, exciting activities and extraordinary service with the region's breathtaking, inspiring scenery.  

Celebrity Century® 
 
DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S)2014 ITINERARY
7-Night Alaska
Hubbard Glacier
Cruise
May 19,26; Jun 02,09,16,23,30; Jul 07,14,21,28; Aug 04,11,18,25; Sep 01,08 Vancouver, British Columbia; Inside Passage (Cruising);
Icy Strait Point, Alaska; Hubbard Glacier (Cruising); Juneau,
Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Inside Passage (Cruising); Vancouver,
British Columbia
11-Night Ultimate
Alaska Cruise
Sep 15 Vancouver, British Columbia; Inside Passage (Cruising);
Sitka, Alaska; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Juneau,
Alaska; Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska; Ketchikan,
Alaska; Prince Rupert, British Columbia; Inside Passage (Cruising);
Victoria, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia

Celebrity Millennium® 

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S)2014 ITINERARY
7-Night Alaska
Roundtrip Cruise
May 17 Vancouver, British Columbia; Inside Passage (Cruising); Juneau,
Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Hubbard Glacier (Cruising); Ketchikan,
Alaska; Inside Passage (Cruising); Vancouver, British Columbia
7-Night Northbound
Alaska Cruise
May 24; Jun 07,21; Jul 05,19; Aug 02,16,30 Vancouver, British Columbia; Inside Passage (Cruising);
Ketchikan, Alaska; Icy Str ait Point, Alaska; Juneau, Alaska;
Skagway, Alaska; Hubbard Glacier (Cruising); Seward, Alaska
7-Night Southbound
Alaska Cruise

May 10,31; Jun 14,28; Jul 12,26; Aug 09,23; Sep 06
Seward, Alaska; Hubbard, Glacier (Cruising); Juneau, Alask a;
Skagway, Alaska; Icy Str ait Point, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska;
Inside Passage (Cruising); Vancouver, British Columbia

Celebrity Solstice® 

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S)2014 ITINERARY
9-Night West Coast
Wine Cruise
May 06 Ensenada, Mexico; San Diego, California; Los Angeles, California;
Santa Barbara, California; San Francisco, California; Astoria,
Oregon; Victoria, British Columbia; Seattle, Washington
7-Night Alaska Tracy
Arm Fjord Cruise
May 24,31; Jun 07.14,21,28; Jul 05,12,19,26; Aug 02,09,16,23,30; Sep 06 Seattle, Washington; Ketchikan, Alaska; Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer
Glacier), Alaska; Juneau, Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Inside
Passage, Alaska; Victoria, British Columbia; Seattle, Washington
10-Night Wine &
Americas Cup Cruise

Sep 13
Seattle, Washington; Nanaimo, British Columbia; Victoria, British
Columbia; Astoria, Oregon; San Francisco, California (overnight);
Catalina Island, California; San Diego, California; Ensenada, Mexico

Monday, March 19, 2012

Experience Galapagos in 2014 on Celebrity Xpedition


Exploring the legendary Galapagos Islands aboard Celebrity Xpedition®

2014 Galapagos Islands Deployment


Many destinations promise visitors the chance to "step back into history." The Galapagos Islands perhaps best exemplifies that promise, as Celebrity Cruises take you to a destination that helped shape one of the world's leading scientific doctrines, Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.




DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S)2014 ITINERARY
7-Night
Galapagos Islands - A
Jan 12,29; Feb 09,23; Mar 09,23; Apr 06, 20; May 04,18; Jun 01,15,29; Jul 13,27; Aug 10,24; Sep 08,21; Oct 05,19; Nov 02,16,20; Dec 14,28 Baltra, Galapagos; Daphne Island, Galapagos; Gardner Bay, Espanola; Punta Suarez, Espanola; Cormorant Point, Floreana; Bahia Post Office, Floreana; Punta Moreno, Isabela; Urvina Bay, Isabela; Punta Vicente Roca, Isabela; Punta Espinoza, Fernandina; South Plaza, Santa Cruz; Dragon Hill, Santa Cruz; Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz; Baltra, Galapagos
7-Night
Galapagos Islands - B
Jan 04,19; Feb 02,16; Mar 02,16,30; Apr 13,27; May 11,25; Jun 08,22; Jul 06,20; Aug 03,17,31; Sep 14,28; Oct 12, 26; Nov 09,23; Dec 07,21 Baltra, Galapagos; Daphne Island, Galapagos; Puerto Egas, Santiago; Rabida, Galapagos; Elizabeth Bay, Isabela; Caleta Tagus, Isabela; Sullivan  Bay, Santiago; Bartalome Island, Santiago; Las Bachas, Santa Cruz; North Seymour, Galapagos; P. Baquerizo, San Cristobal; Cerro Brujo, San Cristobal; Kicker Rock, San Cristobal; Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz; Baltra, Galapagos

TRULY ALL-INCLUSIVE CRUISE VACATIONS

Your Galapagos Islands cruise onboard Celebrity Xpedition includes nearly everything you need to relax and enjoy one of the world’s most pristine environments.
• All beverages, including bottled water, wine, beer and spirits, as well as coffee and tea service,
including espresso and cappuccino.
• All shore excursions, with choices of activity levels and locations.
• All gratuities.
• Pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations and tours on 10 or more night packages.
• Air to/from Quito and Baltra on 10 or more night packages.
• All transfers on 10 or more night packages.
• Park entrance fees and Galapagos Tourist Card fees.
• All meals, including room service and in-stateroom dining during meal hours.
• All snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, fins, wet-suits and snorkeling vests.
• All onboard briefings and lectures led by Xpedition expert naturalists.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS AND SERVICES
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE ONBOARD


• Massage services.
• Scuba diving (where available).
• Internet access.
• Select high-end liquors, apéritifs and wines.
• Laundry services.

There is no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos Islands, and no better way to experience all that this incredible archipelago has to offer than with Celebrity Cruises. In fact, they are the only major cruise line to travel to these enchanting islands. They combine up-close glimpses of some of the world’s rarest wildlife with generous amounts of the good life onboard.

These cruises take place year-round so you can choose the time of year that feels just perfect for escaping to a tropical hideaway.  Celebrity Cruises offers an environmentally conscious vacation that will leave you feeling connected with the incredible creatures we share the world with.  


Photos on our Facebook Fan Page: 
Galapagos Critters      Enjoying Galapagos

Friday, March 16, 2012

The Sea is Calling You to Alaska in 2013-14

Royal Caribbean 2013-14 Alaska Deployment


RADIANCE of the SEAS®

A newly renovated ship, Radiance of the Seas offers 8 new dining options. From fabulous margaritas at Rita’s Cantina to family-style Italian at Giovanni’s to the Boardwalk Doghouse, there’s something for every craving.

Enhance your adventure with a Cruisetour excursion, which can vary from three to six nights, and include an expert Adventure Specialist to guide you for the entire land portion of your vacation.

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) ITINERARY
7-NIGHT ALASKA
NORTHBOUND
May 17, 31; June 14, 28; July 12, 26;
August 9, 23, 2013
Vancouver, British Columbia • Inside
Passage (Cruising) • Ketchikan, Alaska
Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska • Hubbard Glacier
(Cruising) • Seward, Alaska
7-NIGHT ALASKA
SOUTHBOUND
May 24; June 7, 21; July 5, 19;
August 2, 16, 30, 2013
Seward, Alaska • Hubbard Glacier
(Cruising) • Juneau, Alaska • Skagway,
Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska • Inside Passage
(Cruising) • Vancouver, British Columbia


7-NIGHT ALASKA ROUNDTRIP

 September 6, 2013
Vancouver, British Columbia • Cruising
Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Hubbard Glacier
(Cruising) • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan,
Alaska • Cruising • Vancouver, British
Columbia




RHAPSODY of the SEAS®

A newly renovated ship, Rhapsody of the Seas offers new dining options, like Royal Caribbean's signature steakhouse, Chops Grille or the intimate dining experience, Chef’s Table. Crown and Anchor® Society guests can take advantage of a new Concierge Club and Diamond Club.

You will have access to signature Royal Caribbean features like a rock climbing wall and a glass-canopied Solarium adults-only pool as well as new enhancements like the Royal Babies and Tots® Nursery program. Guests will also enjoy technology upgrades like Digital Wayfinders and Wi-fi throughout the entire ship, including staterooms!

DESCRIPTION SAIL DATE(S) ITINERARY
7-NIGHT SAWYER GLACIER May 24, 2013 Vancouver, British Columbia • Inside Passage
(Cruising) • Juneau, Alaska • Skagway, Alaska
Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska • Cruising • Seattle, Washington
7-NIGHT SAWYER GLACIER May 31; June 7, 14, 21, 28; July 5, 12,
19, 26; August 2, 9, 16, 23, 2013
Seattle, Washington • Cruising • Alaska Inside Passage
• Juneau, Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Tracy Arm Fjord
(Sawyer Glacier), Alaska • Cruising • Victoria, British
Columbia • Seattle, Washington

7-NIGHT SAWYER GLACIER

 August 30, 2013
Seattle, Washington • Cruising • Alaska Inside Passage • Juneau, Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Tracy Arm Fjord
(Sawyer Glacier), Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • Inside
Passage (Cruising) • Vancouver, British Columbia





Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Caribbean Princess Cuts Cruise Short

Propulsion Problems
Cause Cancellation

More Troubles for Carnival Corporation

Princess Cruises, who's parent company, Carnival Corporation, has been in the news all year, has issued a statement that Caribbean Princess has experienced a problem with her port propulsion motor during its current sailing.  It has been determined that the ship's current sailing must be canceled to allow for repairs.

The ship has returned to San Juan where the repairs will take place. All passengers will be able to stay onboard through Sunday, to enjoy an extended visit to San Juan, until their previously scheduled flights home.


Caribbean Princess was sailing on a seven-day Southern Caribbean voyage from San Juan, which departed March 11. The ship was scheduled to call in St. Maarten,  St. Lucia, Grenada, Bonaire, and Aruba before returning to San Juan on Sunday, March 18.

More Lost Revenue / Refunds

Passengers will receive a full refund of the cruise fare plus a future cruise credit equal to 25% of the cruise fare paid on this voyage. Further information will be communicated to passengers onboard.

If you read the cruise contract, you'll notice that skipping a port doesn't entitle passengers to any compensation, but Princess Cruises has announced the compensation plan above.   An extended stay in San Juan isn't what the passengers had signed up for, so the refunds seem to be the right thing to do.

What About Next Sailing

At this time it is unknown how the repair process may impact the ship's next sailing, departing March 18. Princess Cruises will communicate any impact to the next voyage as soon as information is available and impacted passengers and their agents will be notified.

UPDATE:  After further review by technical experts, Princess Cruises has confirmed the full extent of the damage to the motor. They now know the time and work required to make the repairs and have had to cancel the next two voyages, departing March 18 and March 25. 

Passengers booked on these sailings will receive a full refund as well as a 25% credit towards a future cruise. Those who booked their flights through Princess will receive a full refund or a future air credit based on the type of air purchased. Passengers who booked their air independently can submit their air change fees to Princess for a refund.  Princess  will also refund any transfers, pre- and post-hotel packages and government fees and taxes.

 

Bad Timing

There never is a good time to have mechanical problems, but this is probably one of the worst times for this to occur.   This is Spring Break time, where the ships are full of passengers who have longed for the time off from school to take to the oceans and other warm destinations.

It will be interesting to see how the non-cruise media spins this story.   Reality is that ships are full of all kinds of mechanical parts, and everyone knows that they can break, and usually they break at the wrong time.   Just ask a "road warrior" how many times they were delayed due to mechanical problems with an airplane.   The difference is, odds are there's a spare plane or spare parts not far away, and usually you can be on your way after a short delay.  That's not the case with a cruise ship - there aren't any spare ships waiting around to come to the rescue of their sister-ship.

Let's hope that the repairs can be done quickly so that there isn't any further impact on the cruise schedule for Caribbean Princess.





Ship Profile | Itineraries & Pricing | Deck Plans | Dining Menus 
  Wine Lists | Kids Programs | Ship Reviews | 360 Tours | Photos




Maiden Voyage 2004 (Refurbished: 2009)
Passengers (dbl) 3,100
Tonnage 113,000 Tons
Normal Crew Size 1200
Length 950 feet
Crew Nationality N/A
Beam 193 feet
Nationality of Officers British/Italian
Draft 27 feet
Nationality of Dining Staff N/A
Speed 24 knots
Registration Country Bermudan