Cunard 2012 World Cruises

QM2 & Queen Elizabeth in Sydney Harbor                Credit: Cunard Line

Cunard 2O12 World Voyages

Options ranging from 12 to 108 day

QM2 World Cruise 2012

QUEEN MARY 2 sets sail on a 108-day journey roundtrip from Southampton, England, bringing guests to renowned destinations around the globe in the grandest style imaginable.

• Southampton to Southampton – 108 days
• Southampton to Dubai – 92 days 
• Cape Town to Southampton – 93 days
• Begin your World voyage in New York with a Transatlantic crossing

If you’d like to be part of the Cunard World Voyage with Queen Mary 2 in 2012
without sailing the entire itinerary, we offer a selection of Liner and Segment Voyages —
shorter portions of the full voyage ranging from 15 to 77 days. These shorter voyages
are ideal for those with less time or an interest in a specific region. Choose to sail on a
Liner or Segment, and be a part of this awe-inspiring adventure.

• Explore exciting ports in South America, Africa, Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Europe
• Overnight stays in Cape Town, Dubai, and Hong Kong
• Guests may embark or disembark in New York by adding a Transatlantic Crossing to the beginning or end of their voyage.

Queen Elizabeth World Cruise 2012

QUEEN ELIZABETH embarks on this classic 107-day World Cruise voyage roundtrip from Southampton.

• Southampton to Southampton – 107 days
• Southampton to Dubai – 85 days
• New York to Southampton – 99 days
• San Francisco to Southampton – 82 days

If there’s a particular part of the world that interests you most, consider sailing a portion of
Queen Elizabeth's Full World Voyage on one of her Liner or Segment Voyages. Liner Voyages
range from 34 to 77 days, allowing you to join the grand celebration along spectacular routes
such as San Francisco to Singapore or Sydney to Dubai. For a smaller taste of the World Voyage
experience, enjoy a Segment Voyage of 12 to 24 days with departures from around the globe.

• Chart a course to destinations in Central America, the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Europe
• Voyage features full transits of the Panama and Suez canals
• Overnight stays in New York, Sydney, and Hong Kong 
• Guests may disembark in New York by adding a Transatlantic Crossing to the
  end of voyages sailing to Southampton.

When you’re embarking on a journey this grand, you want to see the world from a perspective that does it justice. And on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2, you may find it is time on board you most look forward to. Whichever Queen you sail upon, you’ll delight in ample time to truly enjoy all a Cunard ocean liner offers you.

Royal Caribbean 2012 European Deployment

European Cruise Vacations                                                    Credit: Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Largest European Deployment

Twelve of Royal Caribbean International's ships will be home porting in Europe for the 2012 Summer season.  This marks the largest deployment in Europe for the line, up from 11 ships in 2011 and 8 ships in 2010.   This is a substantial investment in the European market.   Other lines are also increasing deployments in Europe.

Royal Caribbean adds 2,100-passenger Serenade of the Seas to the European fleet in 2012, sailing out of Barcelona, Spain.  Her debut in Europe features two different 12-night Mediterranean itineraries.

Royal Caribbean also announced it will begin regular cruises out of Amsterdam for the first time, its 12th home port in the region.   2,100-passenger Brilliance of the Seas will sail a new series of Northern Europe itineraries out of the city and Copenhagen.

Highlights of the 2012 Europe Deployment

• 12 out of 22 ships will be in Europe for 2012
• Adding 23 ports in seven additional countries 
• Mariner of the Seas: Holy Land sailings, 7-night Western Mediterranean voyages from Rome
• Vision the Seas: Holy Land sailings,  Northern Europe 
• Liberty of the Seas: 5-night  Western Mediterranean 
• Maiden calls: Arhus, Denmark; Klaksvik, Faroe Islands; and Kenes (Lofoten), Norway
• Serenade of the Seas: 12-night Mediterranean  (overnight in Venice; Greece and Turkey)
• Brilliance of the Seas: Northern Europe from Amsterdam; Copenhagen
• 8 interports:  Toulon, Marseille and LeHavre, France; Genoa, Messina (Sicily), and Bari, Italy; Valencia, Spain; and Kusadasi (Ephesus) Turkey

An "interport" is a place where passengers can board ships in the midst of a scheduled itinerary.

Royal Caribbean has begun announcing the details of the Europe 2012 Deployment this week.   See the following posts for additional details about the deployment.   Royal Caribbean is announcing the itineraries in two groups.   This post will be updated as the details are posted.

Related Blog Posts

• Royal Caribbean 2012 Oslo Norway
• Royal Caribbean 2012 Venice Italy
• Royal Caribbean 2012 Barcelona Spain
• Royal Caribbean 2012 Harwich England
• Royal Caribbean 2012 Malaga Spain

Royal Caribbean 2012 Oslo Norway

Oslo is the oldest of the Scandinavian capital cities with a varied collection of cultural attractions and natural wonders. Situated at the head of a 60-mile fjord on the southern coast, Oslo is beautifully framed by a vast expense of woods, moors and lakes. Today, Norway's capital is a blend of 19th and 20th-century architectural styles. Woodcarvings and colorful frescoes decorate the city's buildings, and the parks and public squares are resplendent with unique works of sculpture.

2012 – Summer Europe & Transatlantic Sailings 


 VISION of the SEAS®

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

On April 16, 2012, the VISION of the SEAS® sets sail on a 13- Night Eastbound Transatlantic from Sao Paolo, Brazil to Lisbon, Portugal.  Following that cruise, a special 8-Night Repositioning voyage brings the ship to its Summer 2012 homeport in Oslo, Norway.  The season will end with several short cruises in the Baltic region.

5-Night Amsterdam & Brugges

Oslo, Norway • Cruising • Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium
Amsterdam, Netherlands • Cruising • Oslo, Norway

9-Night British Isles

Oslo, Norway • Cruising • Paris / Normandy (Le Havre), France
Cherbourg, France • Dublin, Ireland • Liverpool, England • Cruising
Edinburgh (S. Queensferry), Scotland • Cruising • Oslo, Norway

6-Night Norwegian Fjord

Oslo, Norway • Arhus, Denmark • Cruising
Bergen, Norway • Geiranger, Norway • Cruising • Oslo, Norway

7-Night Scandinavia Russia

Oslo, Norway • Cruising • Cruising
St. Petersburg, Russia • Tallinn, Estonia • Cruising
Copenhagen, Denmark • Oslo, Norway

5-Night Repositioning

Oslo, Norway • Copenhagen, Denmark
Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany • Cruising
Visby, Sweden • Stockholm, Sweden

4-Night Short – St. Petersburg

Stockholm, Sweden • Tallinn, Estonia
St. Petersburg, Russia • Cruising • Stockholm, Sweden

5- Night Short – St. Petersburg

Stockholm, Sweden • Helsinki, Finland
St. Petersburg, Russia • St. Petersburg, Russia
Cruising • Stockholm, Sweden

Royal Caribbean 2012 Venice Italy

Composed of 117 islands in the Venetian Lagoon and held together by a series of canals, Venice is like no other city in the world. Established more than 1,000 years ago by seafarers and Roman refugees, this magnificent city continues to be the heart of Italian culture as well as a mecca for hopeless romantics.

2012 – Summer Europe & Transatlantic Sailings 


 VOYAGER of the SEAS®

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

On April 14, 2012, VOYAGER of the SEAS® leaves New Orleans, Louisiana on a 16- Night Transatlantic Eastbound to Barcelona, Spain.   A special 11-Night Mediterranean cruise follows which transitions the ship to Venice, Italy for the majority of the Summer 2012 season.

On October 26, 2012, a special 8-Night Mediterranean cruise transitions back to Barcelona, Spain where the ship will cross the Atlantic back to New Orleans starting November 3, 2012.


10-Night Greece and Turkey

Venice, Italy • Dubrovnik, Croatia • Cruising • Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey • Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey • Cruising • Athens (Piraeus), Greece • Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece • Cruising
Venice, Italy

11-Night Greece and Turkey

Venice, Italy • Dubrovnik, Croatia • Cruising • Rhodes, Greece • Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey • Istanbul, Turkey • Cruising • Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece • Cruising • Venice, Italy

2012 EUROPE CRUISETOUR DEPLOYMENT

 Get a local's view of the great cities and sights of Europe, as well as its hidden treasures. 

13-Night Italian Lakes & Venice Cruisetour #5EB

Featuring an 10-Night Greek Isles & Turkey Cruise &
3-Night Pre-cruise Escorted Italian Lakes & Venice Land Tour

May 8, 29; June 19; July 10, 31; August 21; September 11; October 2; 2012

Day 1: Milan/Como, Italy
Day 2: Como, Italy
Day 3: Como/Venice, Italy
Day 4: Venice
Days 4-14: Voyager of the Seas®
10-Night Greek Isles & Turkey Cruise
14-Night Italian Lakes & Venice

Cruisetour #5EB

Featuring an 11-Night Greek Isles & Turkey Cruise &
3-Night Pre-cruise Escorted Italian Lakes & Venice Land Tour

May 18; June 8, 29; July 20; August 10, 21; September 21; October 12; 2012

Day 1: Milan/Como, Italy
Day 2: Como, Italy
Day 3: Como/Venice, Italy
Day 4: Venice
Days 4-14: Voyager of the Seas®
11-Night Greek Isles & Turkey Cruise

Royal Caribbean 2012 Barcelona Spain

Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of the country, 90 miles south of the French border. People from all around the world enjoy visiting this city for its individuality, cultural interest and physical beauty. When Hans Christian Andersen visited in 1862, he remarked that Barcelona was the "Paris of Spain."

You're likely to agree. The city is a major cultural center with a fascinating history. Everywhere are archives, libraries, museums and buildings of interest - plus superb examples of modernist and Art Nouveau décor and architecture.


2012 – Summer Europe & Transatlantic Sailings  LIBERTY of the SEAS®  Ship Profile | Itineraries & Pricing | Deck Plans   Dining Menus | Wine Lists | Kids Programs | Ship Reviews | 360 Tours | Photos 

On April 14, 2012, LIBERTY of the SEAS® sails a 14-Night Transatlantic from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Barcelona, Spain, which serves as the home port for the Summer 2012 season.  The return 14-Night Transatlantic begins on October 27,  2012.

5-Night Short Western Mediterranean

Barcelona, Spain • Cannes / Monte Carlo, France
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy • Cruising • Palma De Mallorca, Spain • Barcelona, Spain


7-Night Western Mediterranean

Barcelona, Spain • Provence (Toulon), France • Nice (Villefranche), France
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy • Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy • Naples / Capri, Italy
Cruising • Barcelona, Spain


Ports and order may vary

Royal Caribbean 2012 Harwich England

An international port located on the estuary of the rivers Stour and Orwell in northeast Essex, Harwich is one of England's busiest coastal towns. It's also just 69 miles from London. Throughout history, the town has been a crucial port, providing a sheltered anchorage for many ships. The old town of Harwich is a conservation area, where you'll discover many historic buildings. The neighboring town of Dovercourt is a bit more modern, but equally quaint and fascinating to explore.

2012 – Summer Europe & Transatlantic Sailings 


 JEWEL of the SEAS®

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

On May 3, 2012,  JEWEL of the SEAS® sails a 12-Night Eastbound Transatlantic from Miami, Florida to Harwich, England which will serve as its home port for the Summer 2012 season.   On August 31, 2012, the ship will sail a 16-Night Westbound Transatlantic from Harwich to Boston, Massachusetts.

12-Night Scandinavia and Russia

Harwich, England • Cruising Gothenburg, Sweden • Cruising • Tallinn, Estonia
St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight) • Helsinki, Finland • Stockholm, Sweden • Cruising
Copenhagen, Denmark • Cruising Harwich, England

12-Night Fjords and Iceland

Harwich, England • Cruising • Bergen, Norway • Flam, Norway • Geiranger, Norway
Lerwick/Shetland, Scotland • Klaksvik, Faroe Islands • Cruising
Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight) • Cruising • Harwich, England

2012 EUROPE CRUISETOUR DEPLOYMENT

 Get a local's view of the great cities and sights of Europe, as well as its hidden treasures. 

16-Night Paris & London Cruisetour #6EB

Featuring an 12-Night Scandinavia & Russia Cruise
& 4-Night Pre-cruise Escorted Paris & London Land Tour

May 11, 23; June 4, 28; July 10, 22; August 3, 15; 2012

Day 1: Paris
Day 2: Paris
Day 3: Paris/London
Day 4: London
Day 5: London/Harwich
Days 5-17: Jewel of the Seas®
12-Night Scandinavia & Russia Cruise

16-Night Paris & London Cruisetour #6EB

Featuring an 12-Night Fjords & Iceland Cruise
& 4-Night Pre-cruise Escorted Paris & London Land Tour

May 11, 23; June 4, 28; July 10, 22; August 3, 15; 2012

Day 1: Paris
Day 2: Paris
Day 3: Paris/London
Day 4: London
Day 5: London/Harwich
Days 5-17: Jewel of the Seas®
12-Night Fjords & Iceland Cruise

Royal Caribbean 2012 Malaga Spain

A bustling coastal city and the capital of Costa del Sol, Málaga is the second largest port in Spain. One of the most interesting places to explore is the old historic quarter, which dates back nearly 800 years. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga boasts miles of beautiful beaches, picturesque gardens and fantastic weather.

 2012 – Summer Europe & Transatlantic Sailings  ADVENTURE of the SEAS® Ship Profile | Itineraries & Pricing | Deck Plans   Dining Menus | Wine Lists | Kids Programs | Ship Reviews | 360 Tours | Photos


On April 15, 2012 the ADVENTURE of the SEAS® sales from San Juan, Puerto Rico on a 13-Night Transatlantic ending up in Malaga, Spain which will serve as its home port for the Summer 2012 season.  On November 3, 2012, the ship will sail a 15-Night Transatlantic back to San Juan.

7-Night Western Mediterranean

Malaga, Spain • Valencia, Spain • Cruising Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy • Ajaccio, Corsica Cruising • Malaga, Spain

7-Night Canary Island

Malaga, Spain • Cruising Madeira (Funchal), Portugal
Tenerife, Canary Islands • Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Lanzarote, Canary Islands • Cruising Malaga, Spain

Carnival Magic Completes Sea Trials

Carnival Magic                                                     Credit: Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Magic

Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, is shown here during sea trials in the Adriatic Sea. Following sea trials, Carnival Magic returned to the Fincantieri shipyard to undergo final interior outfitting before its inaugural May 1 cruise.

Completes a Major Milestone

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the 3,690-passenger vessel had a full contingent of officers, technicians and engineers on board who thoroughly tested the Carnival Magic’s sophisticated navigation and mechanical systems.

Click to Start VIDEO:  Fincantieri

Following sea trials, Carnival Magic returned to Monfalcone, where it is undergoing final interior outfitting prior to its delivery late next month. Watch this video to learn more about Fincantieri Shipbuilders, one of the finest in the industry.

Carnival Magic Sea Trials             Credit: Carnival Cruise Lin

Innovations on the Magic

As the line’s newest “Fun Ship,” the 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic will introduce a host of innovations, including the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub; Cucina del Capitano, a family-style Italian restaurant that brings Carnival’s Italian heritage to the table; and SportSquare, an action-packed top-deck recreation area featuring cruising’s first ropes course and outdoor fitness area.

Carnival Magic is set to debut in Europe with a series of seven- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1 – Oct. 16, 2011.  Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Magic will launch seven-day Caribbean service from Galveston, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011, becoming the port’s largest year-round cruise ship.

Viking River Cruises 2012 Fleet Upgrades

Next Generation of River Cruising

Viking River Cruises Longships

Viking has announced plans to build four new river cruise vessels which will debut in 2012 in Europe.  Six more ships are planned to be built by 2014.   The cost of this venture is $120 million out of a total expansion budget of $250 which they announced last year.

UPDATE:  February 23, 2012 - Viking River Cruises Longships Update

Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Odin

Expertly designed by Yran & Storbraaten, designers of Disney Dream and several Yachts of Seabourn ships, these new vessels offer state-of-the-art engineering, design and luxury. The most notable difference will be true 2-room suites and full balconies.

If you have never done a river cruise before, you may not be aware that the river cruise ships are long, low, and narrow.   This design is necessary so that the vessels can navigate the various rivers and the lock systems that are along the way.    Because of this design, true balconies with a sitting area have been out of the question.   The balconies on existing river cruise ships are French Balconies.   Watch the video to see how the designers overcame obstacles to add full balconies to some of the staterooms.

PHOTOS (Click links below):

Introducing for 2012, the Viking Longships


Sneak Preview: 3D renderings of the new Viking Longships, debuting in Europe in 2012. Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Odin.

THE NEW VIKING LONGSHIPS...IN 3D! (click here)

Here are some of the highlights of the new Longships:

• Aquavit Terrace with an indoor/outdoor viewing area at the bow of the ship
• Two Explorer Suites with a private wraparound veranda and 270° views
• Veranda suites and staterooms with full outdoor balconies
• French balcony staterooms featuring floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Deluxe amenities like L'Occitane bath products and premium in-room entertainment packages—all included
• Quiet, environmentally friendly hybrid engines, plus solar panels and an organic herb garden
• The same fine cuisine, exemplary service and immersive, culture-rich itineraries you have come to expect from Viking

The Longhsips are 443-foot-long and will have 95 cabins each. They'll sail four of Viking's most popular European itineraries spanning the Rhine and Danube rivers.

Port of Falmouth Officially Open

Port of Fallmouth Ribbon Cutting    Credit: Royal Caribbean Intl.

Port of Falmouth, Jamaica Opens

The long awaited official opening of Falmouth, Jamaica's new port "town" finally arrived.   Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas made its first call in the new port today where it was greeted by a large crowd of locals and officials.

Oasis of the Seas            Credit: Royal Caribbean Intl

Those that have been following the development of this new port facility know that construction delays prevented an earlier opening this year.    Voyager of the Seas was actually the first ship to visit the new port last month, but the arrival of the Oasis of the Seas was always intended to signal the opening.

Several years ago, Royal Caribbean International,  in collaboration with the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ), entered into the joint venture to construct the all-inclusive resort town on the pier featuring contemporary shops, parks and landscaping, restaurants and bars. 

Significant progress has been made since Voyager of the Seas visited, however work remains to be done to be fully operational.   Regardless, the town is very proud that this day has finally arrived and they were on hand to celebrate as the world's largest ship sailed into view.

Falmouth Port Explorer Guide provides a useful overview and history of this city, as well as maps, points of interest, and other essential information for tourists.

Related Blog Posts 

First Ship Arrives in New Falmouth Port

Port of Falmouth Jamaica Not Ready

Celebrity Cruises Bermuda 2012 Deployment

Celebrity Summit® 
 2012 BERMUDA DEPLOYMENT

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

6-Night Bermuda 
Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.J.,  Kings Wharf, Bermuda,  Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.J.
2012 Departure Dates:  Sep 02

7-Night Bermuda

Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.J.,  Kings Wharf, Bermuda,  Cape Liberty, Bayonne, N.J.
2012 Departure Dates:  May 06, 13, 20, 27; Jun 03, 10, 17, 24; Jul 01, 08, 15, 22, 29; Aug 05, 12, 19, 26

Captain's Club Members:


Save up to $400* when you book one of these cruise vacations before July 29, 2011. When the sand is pink and the water is turquoise, your future can’t help but look rosy. Celebrity Summit® returns to Cape Liberty, New Jersey, for its third year of 7-night Bermuda sailings from May to August 2012.

Experience "Solsticized" Ship

About a year ago, Celebrity Cruises announced that it would be "Solsticizing" the Millennium-class ships starting with Celebrity Constellation.  Celebrity Infinity will be the next ship to undergo the transformation late this year.   Celebrity Summit is scheduled to be updated in January, 2012.

New Features to be added:

• AquaClass veranda staterooms with spa amenities and privileges
• Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, Blu
• Qsine & Celebrity iLounge
• Martini Bar with a frosted countertop and a CellarMasters wine bar
• Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria along with Bistro on Five

These new features have been well-received by cruisers on Celebrity Constellation prompting the continuation of the upgrade program.

* Contact Us for complete details & special offers on these Bermuda cruises

Photo Assignment - Cruising Under the Full Moon

The lunar farside as never seen before! LROC WAC orthographic
projection centered at 180° longitude, 0° latitude

Credit: NASA/Goddard/Arizona State University
› Larger image    › Learn more

'Supermoon' Tonight

There's been plenty of discussion about the 'Supermoon' occurring tonight, March 19th.  What makes this full moon super?   The moon will be at its closest point to the earth as it orbits around us, giving it an appearance of being much larger than normal.   Of course, this isn't the case, the moon doesn't change size at all.   The point where the moon is the closest to the earth is called its perigee. 

On Saturday night, the moon will arrive at perigee at 19:09 UT (3:09 p.m. Eastern Time). Its distance from the Earth at that moment will be 221,565 miles.  In December, 2008 it was 221,587 miles at perigee.

North America will miss the actual perigee since this will occur in the middle of the afternoon, but if the weather cooperates, we'd still suggest getting a look at the full moon when it appears in tonight's sky.

PHOTO ASSIGNMENT

For those lucky enough to be on a cruise tonight,  take some photos that include the moon.   For those that aren't as lucky, but still have a great view of the moon tonight, you are welcome to post also.

Some possibilities would be as the moon is rising,  friend or family members with the moon behind them, reflections of the moon on the ship or sea (perhaps with someone in the foreground to add interest).  Be creative, and have a great time enjoying the view (which is what it's all about, isn't it).

Become a Fan of our Facebook Page and post your pictures.    This is not a photo contest, and we can't give you a prize, but we can give you a forum to share your memories with everyone else.

To make the photos interesting, also post a comment about where the picture was taken and what cruise you were on (or perhaps reflect on a time when you saw a similar picture while on a cruise).    The whole intention here is to show how great cruising is and allow you to share your memories with others.

Facebook terms and conditions apply to any content you post on our Fan Page (in other words, only post your own photos, etc).     We didn't want to make this a formal contest, we just wanted to have some fun with this "supermoon" that has the media buzzing. 

Becoming a Fan will have its rewards ...   in the near future, we will be restricting certain content, and only sharing that with our FB Fans.   This could be sneak peaks, special offers, discounts, etc, so you don't want to miss out on the new content.

If you are on Norwegian Epic, what better night than tonight to Howl at the Moon

Carry Proof of Nuclear Medicine Testing

Radiation Monitoring at Cruise Terminals by Customs Officials

Cruise Terminals Are Controlled by CBP

The following story was shared with me over three years ago, but in light of the situation in Japan, it is quite appropriate to share with you now.   Names and other details have been slightly altered to protect the identity of individuals.

When disembarking the cruise ship yesterday, we had a very interesting experience. When we were giving in our customs declaration, another agent came over and asked us to step to the side.

As we had purchased nothing during this short  cruise, I thought it was because I had "zero" on the form for purchases and they were checking this out. But that was not it.

The agent asked me if I recently had anything involving radiation? I mentioned that I had taken my Dad to the doctor the other day and he had some x-rays and one of them was nuclear but not me. He showed me a little gadget on his belt that was glowing red. This gadget was actually a radiation detector and it was going off big time!

Well it actually turned out to be my wife who had a nuclear stress test 5 days earlier and the stuff they inject for this test is radioactive which was still in her system and sending radiation signals out.

Carry Proof of Nuclear Medicine Testing

The man explained, and we are sharing it here, that anytime someone has anything done that involves radiation they should carry something to that effect - the paperwork from the testing lab is sufficient. He never did say how long that stuff stays in one's system. 

He went on to explain that without this someone could be "inconvenienced - his word" when coming back into the country especially for land border crossing, from a longer cruise or coming from many other countries (we only went to Nassau) or if security levels were higher. He was fine once he knew why his detector went off and we were on our way but it sure was an interesting experience and valuable information to pass along.

Anyone undergoing chemo therapy, or any other nuclear medicine testing, should be aware of testing that occurs at border crossings including airports, cruise terminals, and other sites.

Testing is elevated currently due to the radioactivity issues in Japan, so the warning is timely.

Royal Caribbean Northeast Deployment 2012

Bay of Fundy

WHY NOT DISCOVER NATURE’S COLORFUL SIDE?

 ENCHANTMENT of the SEAS®

EXPERIENCE THE CHARM, HISTORY AND BEAUTY OF CANADA & NEW ENGLAND

 JEWEL of the SEAS®

New England and eastern Canada have an unmistakable charm, history and natural beauty all their own, and there's no better time to visit than the fall. The foliage is brilliant in every imaginable color, lighthouses dot the coastline, and there's always an authentic lobster bake going on somewhere.

Hamilton, Bermuda

 BERMUDA: RELAXATION MANDATORY, SNORKELS OPTIONAL

EXPLORER of the SEAS®

Nearly 600 nautical miles off the coast of North Carolina, this island is known for its pastel painted houses, brilliantly colored gardens, cricket matches and charming shorts. Its pink-sand beaches, excellent shopping, and proximity to the U.S. make it an ideal destination for a getaway cruise vacation.

2012 Northeast Sailings

Are now Open for Booking

Itinerary	Itinerary Highlights†	Ship	2012 Dates
5-Night Bermuda	Baltimore, Maryland • Cruising Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Kings Wharf, Bermuda Cruising • Baltimore, Maryland	Enchantment	Apr 14
8-Night Bermuda & Northeast	Baltimore, Maryland • Cruising Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Kings Wharf, Bermuda Cruising • Boston, Massachusetts • Newport, Rhode Island • Cruising Baltimore, Maryland	Enchantment	Apr 19; May 3, 17, 31; Jun 14, 28; Jul 12, 26; Aug  9, 23
6-Night Bermuda	Baltimore, Maryland • Cruising Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Kings Wharf, Bermuda Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Cruising Baltimore, Maryland	Enchantment	Apr 27; May 11, 25; Jun 8, 22; Jul 6, 20; Aug 3, 17, 31; Sep 14, 28; Oct 12, 26
8-Night Canada & New England	Baltimore, Maryland • Cruising Portland, Maine • Bar Harbor, Maine Saint John, New Brunswick (Bay Of Fundy) Halifax, Nova Scotia • Cruising • Cruising Baltimore, Maryland	Enchantment	Sep 6, 20; Oct 4, 18
7-Night Canada & New England	Boston, Massachusetts • Portland, Maine • Bar Harbor, Maine • Saint John, New Brunswick (Bay Of Fundy) Cruising • Halifax, Nova Scotia • Cruising Boston, Massachusetts	Jewel	Sep 16, 30; Oct 14
7-Night Canada & New England	Boston, Massachusetts • Cruising Halifax, Nova Scotia • Cruising Saint John, New Brunswick (Bay Of Fundy) • Bar Harbor, Maine • Portland, Maine • Boston, Massachusetts	Jewel	Sep 23; Oct 7, 21
5-Night Bermuda	Cape Liberty, Bayonne, New Jersey • Cruising Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Kings Wharf, Bermuda Cruising • Cape Liberty, Bayonne, New Jersey	Explorer	May 5, 19; Jun 2, 16, 30; Jul 14, 28; Aug 11, 25
7-Night Bermuda	Cape Liberty, Bayonne, New Jersey • Cruising Kings Wharf, Bermuda • Kings Wharf, Bermuda Cruising • Cape Liberty, Bayonne, New Jersey	Explorer	Sep 9, 16, 23, 30; Oct 7, 14, 21, 28

†Port order and content for all itineraries may vary. Additional itineraries opening soon.

Introducing Princess Cruises Newest Ship

Artist Rendering Royal Princess - Courtesy Princess Cruises

Click for Video: Introducing the new Royal Princess

Artist renderings of the ship are available on Princess' Flickr page.

First Steel Plate is Cut in Shipyard

In May, 2010, we announced that Italian shipbuilder, Fincantieri, who has long been associated with Carnival Corporation, had been awarded a deal to build two unnamed vessels for Princess Cruises.  The two new 141,000 ton, 3,600-passenger vessels would be the largest cruise ships ever built by Fincantieri and the flagships of Princess Cruises fleet.  The first ship would debut in Spring 2013 and the second the following spring.   Read the full article:  Carnival Corp. Places Orders With Fincantieri Shipbuilders

Today, Princess Cruises previewed the Royal Princess as the first steel plate was cut in the  Monfalcone, Italy shipyard marking the official start of construction of the new vessel.   The name Royal Princess may sound familiar to long-time cruise industry watchers.  This is actually the third time Princess Cruises has used that name for a ship.

Introducing SeaWalk^SM

SeaWalk^SM - Photo Courtesy Princess Cruises

Royal Princess will feature many of the classic design elements while adding some new features and expanded signature spaces.  As with the newest ships from other lines, at least one feature stands out as an innovation.   For Royal Princess, that will be an over-water SeaWalk^SM, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship's starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel. From here passengers can enjoy dramatic views, including to the sea 128 feet below. On the ship's port side, passengers will find a similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas.

Also on her top decks, Royal Princess will feature a new adults-only pool surrounded by seven plush private cabanas that appear to be floating on the water. Two additional pools will flank a tropical island that will offer pool seating by day, and by night will become an outdoor dance club, complete with a dazzling water and light show.

Old Favorites Return

Princess' signature adults-only haven, The Sanctuary, will be expanded both in size and amenities. The popular poolside theater, Movies Under the Stars, will play a starring role mid-ship with an expanded size and high-definition viewing.   Here you can watch your favorite movies and enjoy some of Princess Cruises signature popcorn.

The Piazza atrium, will be significantly expanded to become the social hub of the vessel, complete with always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services.

Princess President and CEO Alan Buckelew remarked "Princess passengers will easily recognize our next ship as a natural progression in our fleet.  We're taking the best features of our newest vessels that have been such customer pleasers, and taking them to the next level. Just as the original Royal Princess ushered in a new era for our company with its innovative design, we expect our new Royal Princess to do the same."

We will bring you additional updates during the construction of the Royal Princess.

After the Tohoku Earthquake

Map of Japan Courtesy USGS

Honshu Earthquake

Upgraded to 9.0 Magnitude

The USGS has continued to review scientific data and  upgraded the magnitude to 9.0 today, making the Tohoku earthquake in Honshu, Japan  the 4th largest in the world since 1900.

The rescue and recovery efforts continue in Northeastern Japan while aftershocks continue and the country works hard to prevent a nuclear disaster.  

The earthquake and resulting tsunami will have a lasting impact on Japan and the world.  It is estimated that the death toll could exceed 10,000 and the damage could soar into billions of dollars.   The loss of life and damage is just one dimension of this natural disaster.   The economy will suffer due to the loss of revenue from tourism and other industries during this crisis. 

Social media played a significant role in bringing this disaster to the world immediately.   When standard telephone communication failed, text messages, sent around the world, told loved ones that for now, they were OK.  Incredible images and videos were instantly available.  The U.S. and other countries offered assistance after seeing the devastation.

Impact on Cruises

Azamara Club Cruises and Cunard Line modified their itineraries in the wake of the earthquake.  These changes were needed because the ports were temporarily closed for damage assessment.  See related blog posts for more details about those changes and messages from the cruise lines in reaction to the disaster.

Related Blog Posts: 

Cruise Lines Return to Japan  (six months later, some cruise lines have returned)

Strong Quakes Continue to Rattle Japan

Another Strong Quake Hits Japan

After the Tohoku Earthquake

Severe Tsunami Impacting Japan & Hawaii 

Azamara Quest Skips Osaka Call

QM2 Skips Nagasaki Sails to China

 

Updated March 16th:

Royal Caribbean  Legend of the Seas sailing that is scheduled to depart Shanghai (Baoshan), China on Saturday, March 19. Legend of the Seas will now call on Cheju Island, South Korea on Sunday, March 20, and stay overnight in Hong Kong, China from 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 22 until midnight on Wednesday, March 23. Legend of the Seas will return to Shanghai on Saturday, March 26 as scheduled.

The most recent cruise modification is on Oceania Nautica which was scheduled to call at two ports in Japan this week.

Oceania Cruises made the following statement on Facebook:
"Due to latest events in Japan the current schedule of Nautica has been changed, calls in Hiroshima and Kobe have been cancelled and replaced with an extra day in Kaoshiung, Taiwan and an extra day in Shanghai. Guests will also have two days in Hong Kong."

While these ports are not in the immediate vicinity of the earthquake, Oceania Cruises decided to make these changes in the interest of safety.

Cruise lines will continue to monitor the situation and make additional modifications as needed. We will provide updates as the situation is warranted.   Our thoughts and prayers join those of people around the world who are concerned for the people of Japan during this time of crisis.

Princess British Isles - Iceland - Canary Islands 2012

Tower of London Bridge

British Isles, Iceland & Canary Islands cruises

The British Isles, Iceland and Greenland beckon adventurous travelers with the promise of welcoming shores, fascinating cultures and awe-inspiring landscapes. Sail with Princess Cruises on a journey to the storied cities and natural wonders you’ve always wanted to see.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

• Our popular 12-day British Isles sailing offers the best of England, Ireland and Scotland with a visit to dazzling Paris.
• 7-day Interlude Cruises on large and small ships explore charming ports in England, Ireland and Scotland.
• Sailings of 18 days or longer to remote Iceland and Greenland, some including a transatlantic crossing.
• Ring of Kerry cruisetours pairing a 12-day British Isles cruise with Ireland's most famous attractions.

If you are interested in this article, also see: 

Princess Cruises 2012-13 Europe Deployment 

Princess Mediterranean - Greek Isles - Holy Land 2012 

Princess Scandinavia - Russia - Norway 2012 

Itinerary	Itinerary Highlights†	Ship	2012 Dates
Western Europe Sampler	3 Nights London (Southampton), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton)	Grand	Sep 1
Ireland & Scotland Interlude	8 Nights London (Dover), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Waterford, Dublin, Glasgow (Greenock), Edinburgh (Rosyth), London (Dover) Note: These departures will offer an Optional Shore Excursion in Edinburgh to see the famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo	Ocean	Aug 2, 17
Canary Islands	11 Nights London (Southampton), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Lanzarote (Arrecife), Madeira (Funchal), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), London (Southampton)	Grand	Apr 21
Canary Islands	12 Nights London (Southampton), Lisbon, Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Lanzarote (Arrecife), Madeira (Funchal), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), London (Southampton)	Grand	Oct 22
British Isles	12 Nights London (Southampton), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Cork (Cobh – for Blarney Castle), Dublin, Liverpool, Belfast, Glasgow (Greenock), Inverness/Loch Ness (Invergordon), Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton) Note: 8/1 departure will offer an Optional Shore Excursion from Glasgow (Greenock) to see the famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo	Caribbean	May 26; Jun 7; Jul 8; Aug 1
British Isles	12 Nights London (Southampton), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Holyhead, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow (Greenock), Orkney Islands (Kirkwall), Inverness/Loch Ness (Invergordon), Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton) Note: 8/13 departure will offer an Optional Shore Excursion from Glasgow (Greenock) to see the famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo	Caribbean	May 14; Aug 13
Iceland & Norway	12 Nights London (Southampton), Bergen, Olden/Nordfjord, Hellesylt (drop-off for Geiranger Fjord Shore Excursion), Scenic cruising of Geiranger Fjord, Geiranger, Ålesund, Akureyri, Reykjavik, London (Southampton)	Caribbean	Jul 20
Iceland, Greenland & British Isles Explorer	14 Nights London (Southampton), Cornwall (Falmouth), Dublin, Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), Reykjavik, Qaqortoq (Greenland), St. John’s (Newfoundland), New York (Brooklyn)	Caribbean	Aug 25
British Isles Passage	14 Nights Ft. Lauderdale, Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada), Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), Dublin, Cornwall (Falmouth), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton)	Grand	Apr 7
Western Europe Passage	14 Nights London (Southampton), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada), Bermuda (West End), Ft. Lauderdale	Grand	Nov 3
Passage to Europe	11 or 15 Nights San Juan, New York (Brooklyn), Halifax, Dublin, Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), London (Southampton) Note: This voyage may be booked at 11 days from New York, departing May 3 or 15 days from San Juan, departing Apr 29 Apr 29 (15 days)	Caribbean	Apr 29 (15 days) May 3 (11 days)
Iceland, Greenland & Norway Explorer	16 Nights Copenhagen, Oslo, Kristiansand, Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), Dublin, Belfast, Reykjavik, Qaqortoq (Greenland), New York (Brooklyn)	Emerald	Sep 10
Northern Europe Passage	16 Nights Ft. Lauderdale, Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada), Cork (Cobh – for Blarney Castle), Cornwall (Falmouth), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Dover), Rotterdam (for Amsterdam), Oslo, Copenhagen	Emerald	Apr 26
British Isles & Canary Islands Grand Adventure®	25 Nights Ft. Lauderdale, Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada), Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), Dublin, Cornwall (Falmouth), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton), Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Lanzarote (Arrecife), Madeira (Funchal), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), London (Southampton)	Grand	Apr 7
Canary Islands & Western Europe Grand Adventure®	26 Nights London (Southampton), Lisbon, Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Lanzarote (Arrecife), Madeira (Funchal), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), London (Southampton), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Azores Islands (Ponta Delgada), Bermuda (West End), Ft. Lauderdale	Grand	Oct 22
Iceland, Greenland & British Isles Grand Adventure®	26 Nights London (Southampton), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Holyhead, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow (Greenock), Orkney Islands (Kirkwall), Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Inverness/Loch Ness (Invergordon), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton), Cornwall (Falmouth), Dublin, Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), Reykjavik, Qaqortoq (Greenland), St. John’s (Newfoundland), New York (Brooklyn) Note: This departure will offer an Optional Shore Excursion from Glasgow (Greenock) to see the famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo	Caribbean	Aug 13
Northern Europe & British Isles Grand Adventure®	23 or 27 Nights San Juan, New York (Brooklyn), Halifax, Dublin, Glasgow/Edinburgh (Greenock), London (Southampton), Guernsey (St. Peter Port), Holyhead, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow (Greenock), Orkney Islands (Kirkwall), Inverness/Loch Ness (Invergordon), Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Paris/Normandy (Le Havre), London (Southampton) Note: This voyage may be booked at 23 days from New York departing May 3 or 27 days from San Juan, departing Apr 29	Caribbean	Apr 29 (27 days) May 3 (23 days)

†Port order and content for all itineraries may vary.