The Sunset of 2009

A year ago we closed our eyes together, remembering our favorite sunset as the year faded away. Together we hoped that there would be brighter tomorrows as we were filled with concerns about the recession.

Close your eyes once again and picture the warm calming glow of the sun as it dips behind the palm trees. The artist completes the final brush strokes on the canvas of 2009 today as this difficult year draws to a close.

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow ...

"The sun'll come out Tomorrow Bet your bottom dollar That tomorrow There'll be sun!" Pehaps these words from the popular musical "ANNIE" were the inspiration for the cruise lines to continue with shipbuilding projects despite the down economy.

2009 saw the introduction of several new cruise ships including Aida Cruises AIDALuna, AMAWaterways MS Amalyra and MS Amadolce, Carnival Cruises Carnival Dream, Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Equinox, Costa Cruises Costa Pacifica and Costa Luminosa, MSC Cruises MSC Splendida, Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas, Seabourn Cruises Seabourn Odyssey, Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit, and Viking River Cruises Vilking Legend.

The top attention getter among these ships was Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas (shown here arriving in its home port of Fort Lauderdale). At 220,000 gross tons, it is the largest ship afloat for any cruise line. Many of the other ships introduced were also the largest ship amongst their respective fleets. Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit is the smallest cruise ship introduced this year, weighing in at just 36,000 gross tons, (do the math - that's 1/6th the size of Oasis) but it is still the largest in the fleet. Is bigger better? Time will tell.

For more information about these new ships, see the Ships & Itineraries tab for the respective cruise line on my website.

Passengers are Sailing Again...

It looks like the cruise line's bets have paid off. Passengers are saling once again and 2009 saw a dramatic increase in first-time cruisers. The secret is out - cruising is a good value. As I've mentioned before, you don't want to wait to book your next cruise. Cruise line executives have told me that prices will be rising. When you see a good deal that interests you, lock it in with a deposit - you have until final payment to change your mind.

Making Memories ...

Cruise vacations make memories that will last a lifetime. Once again I was fortunate to create some new memories and share them with you. One of the highlights of this year's cruises was our Tulip Time Cruise on AMA Waterways Amalegro. Colorful tulips danced in the wind like ballet dancers on stage. What could be better than a Belgian Waffle topped with fresh strawberries and Belgian Chocolate? My mouth waters as I think about the good eats from our river cruise.

What Lies Ahead in 2010...

Several more cruise ships will be introduced in 2010 including Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas and Norwegian EPIC which will be the attention getters due to their size and innovations. I will continue to bring you the very latest cruise industry information drawing upon various resources such as seminars at sea, personal cruises, and other conferences with industry leaders. It appears that we may have seen the worst of the economic situation and recovery will begin. That could bring the reintroduction of fuel surcharges as prices increase. The sun will come out tomorrow - so get out in the sun and have some fun on a cruise ship.

Let us close the book on this historic year together. Tomorrow, when you awake, open the book on what I hope will be a brighter tomorrow. Happy, Healthy, Propserous New Year to all!!

Oasis of the Seas Naming Ceremony

NAMING CERMEONY STREAMING LIVE AT 5:30 pm Eastern TODAY
Seven Godmothers Video: Highlights from Naming Ceremony (click here)

SEVEN GODMOTHERS to PRESIDE OVER OASIS OF THE SEAS

Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, Royal Caribbean International will put a new twist on one of maritime’s longest standing traditions - the naming ceremony of Oasis of the Seas will have seven godmothers instead of the usual one.

Royal Caribbean has chosen seven extraordinary godmothers to represent the seven signature neighborhoods onboard Oasis of the Seas. According to RCI, each of the seven godmothers was chosen because they personify strength of character, exemplify the spirit of giving, and are role models for men, women and children alike.

The godmothers include:

• Gloria Estefan, world-renowned singer, songwriter, actor and author

• Michelle Kwan, the Olympic Games medalist

• Jane Seymore, a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor, as well as an Officer of the British Empire

• Dara Torres, twelve-time Olympic medalist

• Keshia Knight Pulliam, film and television actress

• Shawn Johnson, four-time medalist at the 2008 Olympic games for women’s gymnastics and cancer philanthropist

• Daisy Fuentes, international television personality and producer, beauty and fitness expert, and recognized role model for Latin-American women in the United States

For more details about these godmothers, see the official press release.

See my other posts about Oasis of the Seas. (use search feature in the right-hand navigation)

Thanksgiving Greetings 2009

Keukenhof Gardens - Holland

HAPPY
THANKSGIVING

Lepreau Falls - Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is here already. Where did 2009 go? As has become my tradition, I'd like to share with you some of the things that I'm thankful for and highlight some of my adventures this year.

I hope that you, your family, and friends have plenty to be thankful for this holiday season. I know that I have plenty of things to be thankful for, including my health, family, and friends and the ability to share my love of cruising with all of you. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to explore new worlds with family and friends again this year.

While this has been a tough economic year, it appears that the cruise industry has weathered the storm. Just this month, we have been highlighting the introduction of Oasis of the Seas. Royal Caribbean International has set the standard bar quite high with this new marvel. The value of cruising has never been stronger. Even in these tough times, more and more families have taken to the seas. There were some record discounts offered, making it even a better value, and consequently we have seen a surge in first-time cruisers.

The photos above are from some of our cruises this year. The true highlight of the year was our Tulip Time river cruise on AMA Waterways Amalegro. We sailed out of Amsterdam, Netherlands visiting the surrounding Belgium and Holland area. My favorite memories are of the Keukenhof Gardens (top photo) where we saw thousands of tulips in bloom and Brussels where we feasted on Belgium chocolates and freshly made Belgium waffles topped with fruit and chocolate.

Mid-year we visited Canada and New England stopping at Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada (middle photo) and Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The Reversing Falls in Saint John and a Tall Ship Sailing Experience were two of my favorite things from that cruise vacation.

Our National Conference departed last month from Baltimore, Maryland (bottom photo), and sailed to Port Canaveral and then on to the Bahamas. Carnival Pride is now sailing year-round from this port which is within driving distance of many parts of the Eastern United States. Our visit to Baltimore was definitely a highlight of this trip as was our all day excursion to Blue Lagoon.

When the Pilgrims came to the New World, they came in Tall Ships, much like the one we sailed on in Halifax. The average length of those ships were 110 feet. The length of the Oasis of the Seas is more than 10 times that at 1182 feet. The Pilgrim ships had 32 - 150 passengers while the Oasis can hold more than 6300 (not counting the crew). It took months to cross the Atlantic while the Oasis of the Seas took 14 days (due to the storm encountered in the Northern Atlantic).

Thank you for making my blog column a part of your lives in 2009. I hope that the information I share helps you to dream about future cruises of your own. I'd be honored to help you plan those trips. I have the best job in the world - helping make dreams come true. For that, I'm truly thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving to All

Weather Impacts Port of Baltimore / Grandeur OTS

If you are looking for the February, 2010 Snow Storm in Baltimore, click:
Weather Advisory Port of Baltimore

Weather Update - Grandeur of the Seas

November 14, 2009 Departure

Royal Caribbean continues to closely monitor the path and progress of a major weather system affecting the mid-Atlantic region. Due to this inclement weather and strong winds, the Port of Baltimore closed yesterday and reopened today at 10:00 a.m.

Since the ship cannot transit the Chesapeake Bay until the port is open, and because it takes approximately nine hours for a ship to transit the Bay and dock, Grandeur of the Seas is not expected to arrive in Baltimore until approximately 7:00 p.m.

Due to the late arrival, the following changes have been made:

Boarding for embarking guests will begin at approximately 11:00 p.m.

Departing Guests should not arrive until 9:30 PM

Guests must be Onboard by 2:00 AM Nov. 15th

Royal Caribbean asks that guests who are scheduled to sail on Grandeur of the Seas today, Saturday, November 14, not arrive at the pier until 9:30 p.m. for check in. However, please arrive no later than 2:00 a.m.

Grandeur of the Seas to arrive Bermuda, Tuesday at 8:00 AM

Regrettably, because of the delayed departure, and the time and speed needed, the ship will now arrive in Kings Wharf, Bermuda at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 17, instead of on Monday, as originally scheduled. Royal Caribbean sincerely regrets the impact weather conditions are having on the departure of this cruise.

Royal Caribbean Important Updates

Port of Baltimore Website

NWS - Local Weather

Live Cruise Ship and Ocean Liner Tracking:
Interactive tracking map See where ships are relative to tropical storms.

We will monitor this situation and post any additional updates.

Safe cruising to all.

STS-129 Atlantis Mission a Go for Launch Monday

STS-129 Mission a "Go" for Launch - Photos Courtesy NASA

Space Shuttle Atlantis

Launch Monday, November 16

Launch countdown operations are on schedule with no issues to report, according to officials at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during the STS-129 prelaunch briefing. With the unfortunate scrub of the Atlas rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station today, space shuttle Atlantis is cleared for launch at 2:28 p.m. EST Monday.

Why am I blogging about a Space Shuttle Launch?

Have I upgraded from Cruise Ship to Space Shuttle?

NO, I've not changed fields or unfortunatley, I'm not "cruising" on the space shuttle next week. There is a cruise connection, however ...

The space shuttle launch could impact YOUR plans ... if you are on the Royal Caribbean Monarch of the Seas cruise that departs Monday from Port Canaveral, Florida.

As of now, weather is predicted to be perfect for launch, so barring any unforseen problems, the shuttle should take off at 2:28 PM Eastern time Monday.

Monarch of the Seas is scheduled to depart Monday, November 16, on a 4-Night Bahamas, Port Canaveral R/T. The cruise is scheduled to depart at 5 PM. That means that guests will start boarding the ship mid-day.

Allow extra time for heavy traffic

Due to the shuttle launch, traffic will be quite busy in the Port Canaveral area. Passengers should allow extra time to get to the pier. Also, if you are on the ship prior to launch, you might have a bird's eye view of the shuttle launch. This could be a once in a lifetime experience that you don't want to miss.

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Carnival Dream Naming Ceremony

Carnival Dream Christening - Photo Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

Watch Video

Carnival Dream Naming Ceremony

Thursday, November 12, 2009

On September 18, 200 Carnival Cruise Lines officially took delivery of its newest and largest ship, the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream. A traditional maritime handover ceremony was held at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

Since that time, the Carnival Dream completed 3 Mediterranean cruises and a transatlantic crossing to New York City where the naming ceremony was held November 12th.

Senior Cruise Director John Heald and her godmother, actress Marcia Gay Harden, officially welcomed the newest and largest ship to the Carnival fleet with an uplifting and entertaining ceremony. Anytime that John Heald is involved, you can be sure there will be some lively entertainment.

Catch the video recap of that event here. Also, take a peek at the full day of celebration and fun-filled activities, featuring the Carnival Dream's godmother unveiling Carnival Cruise Line's big book of dreams . View pictures here

Your dreams can come true on Carnival Dream... Check out Carnival Dream Sailings

Thoughts on Veterans Day

VETERANS DAY 2009

History of Veterans Day: World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919. Fighting had ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars". November 11, 1919, was proclaimed as the first commemoration of Armistice Day by President Wilson. For more informaton about the history, consult the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.


The pictures above were taken during our visit to the American Cemetary in Normandy, France. It was very moving seeing row after row of graves. For more pictures from our visit to Normandy, see my previous posts on the topic and also our cruise vacations website.

I've mentioned several times in the past about the opportunity to relive history while on a cruise vacation. This is especially true in Europe due to the large battle field from the World Wars. Whether your cruise vacation takes you to Normandy, France or Honolulu, Hawaii, please take some time to visit a historical site and pay your respects to the troops that fought to keep America strong. We have done so on several cruises and of all the trips we've taken, those tend to stand out in my mind. Don't forget to bring you children with you so that they too can learn about war first hand.

As Albert Schweitzer said "... Wargraves are the great communicators of peace ..." Perhaps another more striking quote was by George Santayanan who said "Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

And who can forget those immortal words of President John F. Kennedy: "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man. "

To the brave men and women, living and deceased, who have taken President Kennedy's charge to heart, Thank You for your Service. May we never forget the sacrifices you have made.

Veterans ... Ask about Military Specials
(here are current offers from Carnival Cruises)...
CARNIVAL MILITARY SPECIALS

Welcoming Oasis of the Seas to Fort Lauderdale

JOIN US FOR A CELEBRATION

TO WELCOME

OASIS OF THE SEAS

FEATURING A LIVE BROADCAST OF

THE PAUL AND RON YOUNG SHOW ON BIG 105.9

Friday, November 13, 2009, Oasis of the Seas is scheduled to arrive at its home port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM

Place: Jetty Pavilion at John U Lloyd Park 6503 N.Ocean Drive, Dania, FL 33004

Time: Park opens at 7:00am, Oasis of the Seas scheduled to arrive between 7:30 and 8:30 AM

Parking: Complimentary parking for private cars will be at the PelicanPavilion (just south of the Jetty Pavilion). http://www.floridastateparks.org/lloydbeach

Related Blog posts:

Oasis of the Seas Back to the Bridge

Oasis of the Seas - Entertainment

Oasis of the Seas vs North Atlantic
Oasis of the Seas Continues Journey
Oasis OTS Ducks Under Great Belt Bridge
Oasis of the Seas - Crossing the Atlantic
Oasis of the Seas Heads for Home
Oasis of the Seas Takes to Water

Watch Additional Oasis of the Seas Videos Here!

EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER
November 15th at midnight (EXTENDED!)

Book a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas by November 15th and receive $100 Onboard Credit Learn more about Oasis of the Seas and applicable sail dates.

Oasis of the Seas vs North Atlantic

View from Bow Camera Onboard Oasis of the Seas - Courtesy Royal Caribbean International

Oasis of the Seas is continuing its journey across the Atlantic to its home port of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. This time of year the weather in the North Atlantic can be anything but cooperative. The winter storm has been intensifying and Captain Bill has had to reduce speed considerably to keep the ship and passengers safe. There is still lots of work being performed on the ship as well as various practice runs as the crew prepares for their first passengers.

The Oasis is encountering significant wave heights of up to 35 feet with some peak waves exceeding 60 feet. This is still hurricane season, so it is not unexpected to see Mother Nature putting on an impressive show. In fact, we are also tracking a potentially powerful storm in the Caribbean Sea.

Oasis of the Seas is on a southerly route from Finland to Ft. Lauderdale. The route does require you to spend time in the North Atlantic. Captain Bill is constantly adjusting course and speed and because of this, the Oasis is now expected to arrive late into its home port. At the present rate, it may be late by as much as two days.

In the following video, Captain Bill talks about the rough seas with winds approaching hurricane force, high waves, and how well the Oasis of the Seas is handling in these weather conditions. There is also a look at the environmental practices onboard the ship.

Captains Log Day 6 Video: Blue Seas Green Practices (click here)

In this next video, Captain Bill talks about the rough seas and keeping safe. There are also interviews with Ambasadors at Sea who help non-English speaking guests during their cruise.

Captains Log Day 7 Video: Ambassadors at Sea (click here)

On day 8, the Oasis of the Seas is now beyond the grip of the North Atlantic storm, that exhibited hurricane force winds and huge waves. The ship handled amazingly throughout the entire time, which in this video Captain Bill contributes to the design of the hull. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at hull while the ship was in dry dock in this next video.

Captains Log Day 8 Video: Hull Design (click here)

Related Blog posts:

Oasis of the Seas Continues Journey
Oasis OTS Ducks Under Great Belt Bridge
Oasis of the Seas - Crossing the Atlantic
Oasis of the Seas Heads for Home
Oasis of the Seas Takes to Water

Watch Additional Oasis of the Seas Videos Here!

EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER
Just a few days left

Book a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas by November 9th and receive $100 Onboard Credit Learn more about Oasis of the Seas and applicable sail dates.

Oasis of the Seas Continues Journey

Oasis of the Seas

Sails Past White Cliffs of Dover

Day 4 finds Oasis of the Seas in the English Channel passing the White Cliffs of Dover. Having sailed past them, and left from Dover, England on several occasions, I can assure you that the captain, crew, and workers onboard the Oasis had a magnificent view as they continued their journey to Fort Lauderdale, FL.

I'm sure there will be pictures posted from onlookers, so make sure to come back for any updates. I've included the link to the Captain's Log video which does show the White Cliffs in the background.

As with any initial ship crossing of the Atlantic, it's not playtime, but rather the chance to put the ship through it's paces and finish up remaining work in preparation for the first passenger voyages. The video shows work that is still in progress on the ship. For the most part, the work includes minor cosmetic changes and additions.

Captains Log Day 4 Video: Building at Sea (click here)

Related Blog posts:

Oasis OTS Ducks Under Great Belt Bridge

Oasis of the Seas - Crossing the Atlantic

Oasis of the Seas Heads for Home

Oasis of the Seas Takes to Water

Watch Additional Oasis of the Seas Videos Here!

EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER

Book a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas by November 9th and receive $100 Onboard Credit Learn more about Oasis of the Seas and applicable sail dates.

Exclusive Offers on Royal Caribbean

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

I am happy to offer the following exclusive offers to my blog readers and clients. Now is the time to get away and use those vacation hours that have piled up all year long. Don't lose any hours - take a cruise vacation.

I'd like to call your attention to the Oasis of the Seas sail in particular - December sailings including 2 Holiday Dates!

LIBERTY OF THE SEAS

Book a 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise aboard the Liberty of the Seas by October 26th and receive $50 Onboard Credit, a Coupon Booklet & 15% Off Shore Excursions Learn more about Liberty of the Seas and applicable sail dates.

OASIS OF THE SEAS

Book a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas by November 2nd and receive $100 Onboard Credit Learn more about Oasis of the Seas and applicable sail dates.

CARIBBEAN CRUISES
Book an Oceanview or higher and we'll take an EXTRA $50, $100, or $200 OFF the total price. Hurry - offer ends November 4th! Learn more about sailings that are up to $200 Off and applicable sail dates.

Click on one of the special offers for more details. Call or email me today - don't delay as inventory is very limited.

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WLCN Offers Good Thru October Or Longer

OFFICIAL WLCN SALE
BOOKING WINDOW
Starting Oct. 14, 2009

As mentioned in previous posts, there are a number of special offers throughout the month. I'd like to call attention to the following offers which are valid after this week.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

Booking Window: Oct 13 - 20

CRYSTAL CRUISES

$100 per person discount on most 2009 and 2010 departures

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Nov 7

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES

$100 per person shipboard credit

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Nov 14

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

7-Night Cruises or Longer Itineraries
$100 onboard credit for cruises sailing Jan. 9, 2010 - Dec. 18, 2010

3-4- and 5-Night Bahamian Cruises
$50 onboard credit for cruises sailing Jan. 3, 2010 - Dec. 19, 2010

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Oct 28

COSTA CRUISES

$50 per cabin onboard credit

Valid for Caribbean and Europe sailings through December 2010.

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Oct 31

SILVERSEAS CRUISES

Savings of $100 per person (max $200 per suite double occupancy) per booking (not per voyage for combination cruises)

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Nov 14

MSC CRUISES

Onboard credits: Inside cabin will receive $ 25 pp (max $ 50 per cabin), Oceanview cabin will receive $ 50 pp (max 100 per cabin), Balcony and Suite stateroom will receive $ 100 pp (max $ 200 per cabin).

Booking Window: Oct 14 to Oct 24

All offers are for New Bookings ONLY and may have additional Terms and Conditions.

Contact us for complete details.

World's Largest Cruise Night - TODAY

World's Largest Cruise Night 2009 Is Finally Here!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEOS / OFFERS

Be a part of this historic event ... View cruise line videos, learn about cruising, take advantage of special offers ... Some offers are only VALID TODAY.... Other offers are VALID for several days or ALL MONTH

WLCN Celebrity Cruises

Worlds Largest Cruise Night

Celebrity Cruises

CELEBRITY CRUISES a premium cruise line, has one of the youngest and most innovative fleets of any major line. Since Celebrity's first sailing in 1990, it has been recognized as an industry leader, praised for providing friendly and engaging service, exotic Elemis Spa facilities, award-winning gourmet cuisine, and an overall atmosphere of easy elegance. Purchased by Royal Caribbean International in the late 1990's, Celebrity has grown its fleet significantly while maintaining its Premium niche.

Celebrity currently has a fleet of nine elegant ships. One of Celebrity's ships is the Celebrity Xpedition. The Celebrity Xpedition's size allows 92 guests to experience the Galapagos in a very comfortable expedition style ship.; Plying the world's waters in high-tech comfort are Century, and Mercury which are host to 1870 guests. Celebrity's Millennium Class of ships include Millennium, Infinity, Summit and Constellation each host 1950 guests. Each is a ship of incomparable beauty featuring sumptuous amenities, impeccable service and comfortable accommodations.

Celebrity Cruises Offers for WLCN 2009

$50 Onboard Credit per stateroom for 3-5 nights

$100 Onboard Credit per stateroom for 6-8 nights

$200 Onboard Credit per stateroom for 9 nights plus

See the Celebrity Cruises Video

Explore Celebrity Cruises Itineraries

Join Us For The World's Largest Cruise Night - A Virtual Cruise Night!

Offers are valid on new bookings made by October 31, 2009; based on availability and are not combinable with any other offers and/or discounts.

WLCN Carnival Cruises

Worlds Largest Cruise Night

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES holds the status of not only being the largest cruise line in the world, with a fleet of 23 "Fun Ships", but one of the most popular. The line's fleet is one of the newest and most modern. At 110,000 tons, the line's new "Conquest-class" is the largest in Carnival's "Fun Ship" fleet. The first of the 2,974-passenger super liners is the Carnival Freedom.

Carnival offers a choice of itineraries, from two- to 17-days, to worldwide destinations, including the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Bermuda, Europe, New England and the Canadian Maritimes. In 2006, several new sailings will be offered from all along the Eastern Coast to the new ports of call.

Carnival Offers for WLCN 2009 (Oct. 14th Only)

Cash Back up to $70 per stateroom on Select 3 & 4 Day sailings.

Cash Back up to $100 per stateroom on Select 5 & 6 Day sailings.

Cash Back up to $200 per stateroom on Select 7 & 8 Day sailings.

See the Carnival Cruise Lines Video

Explore Carnival Cruise Lines Itineraries

Join Us For The World's Largest Cruise Night - A Virtual Cruise Night!

Offers are valid on new bookings made on October 14, 2009; based on availability and are not combinable with any other offers and/or discounts.

WLCN Azamara Cruises

Worlds Largest Cruise Night

Azamara Cruises

AZAMARA CRUISES was introduced to the US market in 2007 by Royal Caribbean International & Celebrity Cruises as a separate "Deluxe" brand of cruising. The Azamara brand is different from Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise sister companies in many ways. This "Deluxe" niche designation puts the cruise experience above the "Premium" niche where Celebrity is and puts this brand in competition with Oceania and Crystal. The Azamara Cruise experience is focused upon the destination, rather than the vessel, and clients find that the brand offers a shipboard experience where attentive personal service is offered in a country club casual atmosphere.

The Azamara fleet consists of 2 very popular former Renaissance Cruise Line Vessels. These modern mid-size ships host 698 guests, offer a wide variety of dining options and have been radically refurbished to have their own distinct upscale look. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest cruise in Europe, South America and the Caribbean. Azamara voyages tend to be longer in length and the itineraries often include overnight stays in popular ports of call.

Azamara Cruises Offers for WLCN 2009

$300 OBC per stateroom for Verandas only on select 2010 Europe sailings

$500 OBC per stateroom for Suites only on select 2010 Europe sailings

See the Azamara Cruises Video

Explore Azamara Cruises Itineraries

Join Us For The World's Largest Cruise Night - A Virtual Cruise Night!

Offers are valid on new bookings made by October 31, 2009; based on availability and are not combinable with any other offers and/or discounts.

WLCN AMA Waterways

Worlds Largest Cruise Night

AMA Waterways

AMA WATERWAYS adds two new ships, the MS Amadolce and MS Amalyra to their fleet in 2009. The vessels join Europe's most luxurious and state-of-the-art fleet, comprised of the MS Amadante (2008), MS Amacello (2008), MS Amalegro (2007), and MS Amadagio (2006).

Renowned for their innovative, award-winning ships, personalized service and signature features not found aboard any other cruise line, AMA WATERWAYS offers an array of unparalleled cruise vacations on the legendary rivers of Europe. They also proudly offer magnificent itineraries in Portugal and Spain, Provence and Spain, and the fascinating waterways of Russia.

AMA Waterways Offers for WLCN 2009

Save up to $1000 per stateroom on select November/December 2009 Christmas Time Cruise, Christmas Wonderland and Winter Heartland Cruise.

Save up to $500 per stateroom on select 2010 April/May Romantic Danube and Enchanting Rhine cruises.

See the AMA Waterways Video

Explore AMA Waterways Itineraries

Join Us For The World's Largest Cruise Night - A Virtual Cruise Night!

Offers are valid on new bookings made by October 31, 2009; based on availability and are not combinable with any other offers and/or discounts.

Virtual Cruise Night Starts October 1st

October is National Cruise Vacation Month

Join our Virtual Cruise Night Starting October 1st. While October 14th is the annual Worlds Largest Cruise Night major event, as a reader of my blog you have the opportunity to participate at your leisure throughout the entire month of October.

Cruising is all about choice and we have assembled videos and special offers from 21 different CLIA member Cruise Lines. Throughout the month, I'll also feature several of the cruise lines in blog posts, so be sure to come back often to read my articles.

There is no need to get dressed up and go to some location for this cruise night. Simply sit back in your easy chair and check out the videos and featured offers.

CLICK HERE FOR VIRTUAL CRUISE NIGHT VIDEOS & OFFERS

Call or Email Me for Additional Details about the Cruise Line / Offers that interest You.

Mention that you read about the Virtual Cruise Night on my Blog for a special gift.

World's Largest Cruise Night - Save the Date

October is National Cruise Vacation Month

October is National Cruise Vacation Month, and October 14, 2009 is the fifth-annual World’s Largest Cruise Night (WLCN) – an event that focuses on the pleasures of cruising.

Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has organized this event with it's member cruise lines and member agencies. This is your opportunity to learn more about cruising and the individual cruise lines as well as take advantage of several special offers that are valid for either one day or the entire month.

Continue to watch this column for more information about my participation in this annual event. We will have a web page devoted to WLCN which will point you to video links and provide information about the various cruise line offers.

There is no need to get dressed up to go to a meeting hall. Simply turn on your computer and participate in a virtual cruise night. You can participate any time during the month of October, but the early bird will get the worm so to speak.

Become a fan on Facebook and I'll provide you with the link September 30th or come back to this site on October 1st for all the details.

Regent Seven Seas Inclusive Sale

Prices Increase October 1st

Book Regent Cruises NOW

With many 2010 cruises already sold out, time is running out to take advantage of Regent Seven Seas Cruises inclusive special offers. After September 30, 2009, prices will be increasing on nearly half of the voyages. Features of the sale include the following:

Unlimited Complimentary Shore Excursions

Free Air & 2-for-1 Fares

Additional $1,000 per guest savings

Guests will still be able to enjoy Unlimited Complimentary Shore Excursions and Included Air, but 2-for-1 Fares plus up to an additional $1,000 per guest savings will no longer apply on select 2010 cruises effective October 1, 2009.

Contact me NOW to book YOUR cruise as space is limited. Checking my inventory, I see that many cruises are already sold out, and some suite categories are already waitlisted!

Regent Seven Seas Cruise - Information & Itineraries

Offer expires September 30, 2009. Discounts and amenities are per person based on double occupancy. Additional terms and conditions apply - contact me for complete details.