Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Carnival Redeploys Elation and Ecstasy

Carnival Elation
Carnival Cruises Redeploys Carnival Elation 
& Carnival Ecstasy


In a surprise move, Carnival Cruise Lines announced that they are pulling out of Mobile, Alabama in October, 2010.   Carnival Elation has been operating four-, five- and seven-night cruises out of Mobile, and is the only cruise vessel sailing out of the city.

According to the Mobile Press-Register, the news shocked local officials and cruise industry insiders, and leaves the city of Mobile with no direct revenue to pay the millions in debt remaining on the seven-year-old cruise terminal. 

Elation Moving to New Orleans

Carnival Elation will reposition from Mobile, Ala., to New Orleans to operate year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises beginning November 5, 2011. On this route, four-day cruises will depart Thursdays and visit Cozumel, one of the Caribbean’s most popular ports, while five-day voyages will call at both Cozumel and Progreso.

Carnival Elation will join the Carnival Conquest in New Orleans, marking the first time Carnival has operated two ships from New Orleans in six years.  Carnival will be the only cruise line with two ships based year-round in New Orleans, carrying more than 350,000 passengers annually. 
     
Carnival Ecstasy Moving to Port Canaveral

The second part of the double repositioning is the move of the Carnival Ecstasy, which was to have sailed from New Orleans this coming season, to Port Canaveral, Florida.

The 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy will operate four- and five-day Bahamas cruises from the Space Coast beginning November 7, 2011.  The move further bolsters Carnival’s position as Port Canaveral’s largest cruise operator with three year-round ships carrying approximately 600,000 guests annually.

Carnival Ecstasy will depart Thursdays on four-day ‘long weekend’ cruises visiting Nassau and Half Moon Cay or Freeport. Five-day cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays and call at Nassau, Freeport and Half Moon Cay or Key West.

Prior to repositioning to Port Canaveral, the Carnival Ecstasy will continue to operate from Galveston, Texas through September 8, 2011 and then from New Orleans September 22 through November 5, 2011, as previously scheduled.     


Guests with Current Reservations
As a result of these deployment changes, Carnival will no longer offer cruises from Mobile, Ala.  Guests booked on those voyages will have the option of re-booking from an alternate homeport and receive a $25 per person onboard credit, or they can elect to receive a full refund.

Guests booked on cruises from New Orleans on the Carnival Ecstasy that will now be operated on the Carnival Elation are being automatically shifted to the Carnival Elation.  Itineraries on the Carnival Elation will be identical to those that were scheduled for the Carnival Ecstasy.  The two vessels are sister ships with largely similar features, amenities and staterooms. (Those guests who were booked in standard balcony staterooms on the Carnival Ecstasy – a cabin category not featured on the Carnival Elation – will be contacted individually to discuss their preferences.) The movement of bookings from Carnival Ecstasy to Carnival Elation will be completed by Friday, March 11, 2011 at which time new bookings can be made.

Friday, December 31, 2010

Sunset of 2010

Red skies at night...
sailors delight. 
  
One famous nautical superstition has sailors looking to the evening skies to determine the weather for the next day.   A colorful sunset with red skies meant the seas would be calm and the weather favorable delighting the sailors.

What will the artist's canvas look like tonight as the final sunset is painted in the evening sky?    Let's hope that the sunset signals calm seas with favorable conditions for the coming year.

Year of Disasters - Natural & Man Made

Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Volcanoes, Hurricanes

Photo courtesy Royal Caribbean International

Early in 2010, a major earthquake hit Haiti killing or injuring  hundreds of thousands, causing billions of dollars of damage, and devastating this already struggling nation.

The cruise industry and others rallied to try to help the country following the disaster.   Royal Caribbean, who has a long-standing relationship with the government of Haiti, led the cruise industry response (even while being criticized).  The nation would later suffer additional loss of life and damage when a hurricane struck the country.

Later in the year, the world's eyes turned to the skies over Iceland as volcanic ash grounded flights over Europe disrupting travel across the entire world.   Passengers were stranded in airports for days until the ash cleared.

Some passengers were unable to get to their cruise ships on time while in other cases, the ships provided an alternate means of travel for stranded air passengers.   It was a logistical nightmare for the entire travel industry and put additional strain on the economy.


Hurricane season began with a vengeance and it was feared that the NOAA predictions of a higher than normal season would become a reality.   There were a larger than usual number of named storms and hurricanes, but fortunately, they didn't produce the devastation of years past. 

That doesn't mean that there wasn't any loss of life or property damage.  As mentioned, Haiti did have substantial damage as did St. Lucia and other Caribbean countries.  Cruise itineraries were changed as storms approached or in their wake as services were restored.

Oil Spill, Ship Fire

During the height of hurricane season, an explosion on an oil rig caused loss of life and a major oil spill that would consume resources from the federal government and other agencies.  The spill severely endangered the ecology of the Gulf Coast region.    It took months to clean up and the effects of the spill will remain for many years to come.

Cruises were not impacted during the spill as the impacted ports remained open. Despite the continued cruise line presence, the economic impact from the oil spill took its toll on the region.  Many people changed their vacation plans as the cleanup continued.

The most recent major event of 2010 was the engine room fire on Carnival Splendor which stranded passengers on that cruise and impacted vacation plans through February next year.  The good news is that the industry will learn from this event and become even safer.

Cruise Line Expansion

2010 saw the introduction of several new cruise ships including Costa Deliziosa, MSC Magnifica, Celebrity Eclipse, P&O Azura, Norwegian Epic, Seabourn Sojourn, Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam, Cunard Queen Elizabeth, Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas, and Disney Dream.

The introduction of these new ships means there are more choices for the consumer.  As demand continues to increase, the capacity is keeping  pace assuring that a cruise vacation is well within the realm of possible vacation choices.

While the economy and disasters have been front and center all year long,  passengers are returning to cruising and we anticipate prices will rise as 2011 pricing comes out.   There might be some time yet to take advantage of lower prices, so it is wise not to procrastinate.  

Just like 2009, we saw an increase in first-time cruisers and those that have tried cruising continue to return year after year.    A cruise vacation remains an extremely good value making it a wise choice for those that decided to take a vacation.

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, Prosperous New Year to all!!

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving 2010

Norwegian Epic - Main Pool
HAPPY
THANKSGIVING
 
Where is Chris?

Treetops - Vancouver, Canada
It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is here already. Where did 2010 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 another tough economic year, it appears that the cruise industry has weathered the storm once again. Just this month, we have been highlighting the introduction of Allure of the Seas. Just a year ago, her sister ship was added to Royal Caribbean International's fleet.  The two ships are the largest ships afloat.

The value of cruising has never been stronger. Even in these tough times, more and more families have taken to the seas.  Indications are that the record discounts offered the past two years will be coming to an end.  In the meantime those discounts have made cruising an even better value, and consequently we have seen a surge in first-time cruisers.

The photos above are from some of our cruises this year.  Cruises Inc. and Cruise One held their National Conference on the brand new Norwegian Epic and we were fortunate to be able to attend.  Just like the Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, several new innovations were introduced on the Epic.   Although it isn't quite as large as the RCI ships, it is no small ship.   The entertainment and food on the Epic take center stage along with the studio suites, which allow solo travelers their own haven at a price point to match. The Epic has much to offer cruisers.

Norwegian Epic alternates between Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.   Our conference was on the latter itinerary which included stops in Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel.   The picture of me in front of the Epic was in Roatan where we hired a local cab driver to take us around the island after we did a bit of shopping near the pier.


In June this year we attended Cruise3Sixty, CLIA's annual conference.  This year it was held in Vancouver, Canada.  We extended our stay following the formal conference which allowed for touring of some of the local attractions, which despite many trips there in the past, we had not had time for.  I'm pictured here hiking through Treetops at the  Capilano Suspension Bridge.


Boardwalk
The highlight of the year is yet to come.   We will be sailing on Allure of the Seas for one of the pre-inaugural sailings.   The final cruise of the year will be on Azamara Club Cruises Journey.   We will tour the West Indies on that cruise.

We wonder what the Pilgrims, who came to the New World in Tall Ships, would think about the Allure of the Seas.  Their ships measured 110 feet, held 150 passengers at most, and took months to cross the Atlantic.  The Allure is more than 10 times that length (1182 feet), holds almost 8000 passengers and crew, and took just a couple weeks to cross the Atlantic.

Thank you for making our blog column a part of your lives in 2010.   I hope that the information we 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

  

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Veteran's Day 2010 Three Different Salutes

Carnival Splendor & Allure of the Seas Events
Share Veteran's Day Spotlight


November 11, 2010  -  Veteran's Day 

First and foremost, today is the annual observance of Veteran's Day, a day set aside to honor the nation's veterans.   The main image in the picture above was taken at the American Cemetery in Normandy, France, on one of our cruises several years ago.    The image of row after row of crosses will never leave me.

Every day we go about our business, and I suspect most of us take our freedom for granted.   It isn't because we aren't caring people, but instead perhaps because we just don't think about it.  So I ask you today to take a moment to reflect on the veterans, living and deceased, for without whose service we wouldn't be the free nation we are today.

I have written about this in past blogs.  Read last year's post (or do a search for other articles):  Thoughts on Veterans Day for example.  This year I had some different thoughts.

Three Events Superimposed

As I prepared to write this column, it struck me that there were three events today that would get the majority of media attention.   In all cases, people would be gathered in numbers to watch the unfolding event, and the news media would be there with microphones in hand, cameras flashing and taping away to capture the moment in time.

On the left coast of the United States, Carnival Splendor arrived in the port of San Diego under tow.   We have been following this unfolding story from the time the fire broke out in the engine room until the safe return of the passengers, crew, and ship today.

We will hear stories about how unbearable the conditions were onboard the ship following the fire.   Granted, it wasn't the experience that people signed up for when they booked their vacation.

Contrast that to crawling up a beach under heavy enemy fire on a beach in Normandy or walking for miles through some jungle or mountain terrain with only MREs to eat.   For those that haven't heard the term before, MREs are meals ready to eat.  They come in pouches and vaguely resemble and taste like food.   (Ask a soldier what they would have given for a can of Spam or a Pop Tart).

We're sure there will be several stories that come from the Carnival Splendor ill-fated cruise.   There will be many unsung heroes, perhaps some of which used past military training to get them through the ordeal.  The stories that have surfaced so far have stated that the crew did a fantastic job dealing with the crisis and for that we salute them.

The military played an important role in days following the Splendor fire.   The USS Ronald Reagan provided relief services, dropping pallets of food on the deck of the disabled ship.   Coast Guard vessels escorted the ship back into harbor.  We salute those troops for their help and service.

On the right coast of the United States, Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas arrived in Port Everglades.   It wasn't under tow, but was escorted by tug boats shooting water in the air, the traditional salute to a ship entering the port for the first time.

Once again, there were crowds gathered, along with the media, to experience first-hand this moment in cruise history.   The mood was a bit more festive than on the other coast.   It was fitting that the W. Broward H.S. Marching Band performed a selection of musical pieces and displayed an American flag as part of the events to welcome Allure of the Seas on this Veteran's Day 2010.

Photo Credit: Tony Walker.

Vice President Joe Biden is assisted by Maj. Gen. Karl Horst, U.S. Army Military District Washington commanding general, during a Wreath-Laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in the National Veterans Day Observance in Arlington National Cemetery.

President Obama didn’t visit Section 60 this Veterans Day. He was in South Korea visiting U.S. troops in Seoul. Vice President Biden made the trip in his place after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

The acreage in Arlington National Cemetery, where many of the troops who gave their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan are buried, was busy anyway. As it always is on somber holidays. The sky was cobalt blue, many of the trees were bright orange and the air was crisp. Little boys darted between the white headstones decorated with stones, tiny pieces of colored glass, flowers, photos, letters and flags. Read more
  
THANK YOU FROM A GRATEFUL NATION

Those words are spoken when the folded U.S. Flag is presented to the family at a military funeral ceremony.  Today let us all echo those words and say thank you.    There are many ways to become involved and say thank you in a very meaningful way.   Cruise lines offer discounts to military, including veterans.   Local organizations gather goodies to send to the troops currently serving overseas.   Volunteers help out at local VA Hospitals across the nation.   If you want to get involved personally, check out the VA Voluntary Service website for some ideas.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

WLCN is Here - October 13, 2010

PREMIUM
DELUXE
LUXURY


It's that time of year again! World's Largest Cruise Night is Here!

Click a Cruise Line to find your perfect match!
 
This is the largest promotion of the year for the cruise industry, so what better time to take advantage of these special offers, then NOW!

We're joining with member travel agencies from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) across the US and Canada to host the online World's Largest Cruise Night an opportunity for travelers like you to learn more about one of the most popular vacations: cruising!

Cruising is all about you. You can find adventure, culture and education or, relax the day away. Dine on fine cuisine. Indulge at the spa. Reconnect with family. Share romantic moments. All this, in the destination of your choice, for a few days, a week, or more, and on a cruise that's right for you.

Simply click on the cruise line of your choice and see what special deals they have to offer!
CONTEMPORARY

Sunday, October 3, 2010

State Department Issues Travel Alert for Europe

The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for terrorist attacks in Europe.  Current information suggests that al-Qa’ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks.  European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions.

According to the Alert, "Terrorists may elect to use a variety of means and weapons and target both official and private interests.  U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.  Terrorists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services.  U.S. citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when traveling."

The U.S. State Department constantly monitors threats from international terrorism, including al-Qa’ida, across the world.  They work with  European allies routinely exchanging information in order to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen our defenses against potential threats.  The U.S. State Department is responsible for U.S. citizens safety abroad.

Britain raised the terrorism threat level in its advice for citizens traveling to Germany and France to "high" from "general." It left the threat level at home unchanged at "severe," meaning an attack is highly likely, and said it agreed with the U.S. assessment for the continent as a whole.

Take Precautions When Traveling

Europe's travel industry has suffered substantially this year with the earlier declines due to the Icelandic volcano.   Now, once again, the travel sector in Europe may be impacted by the U.S. State Department alert.   The U.S. alert falls short of a more severe one in which the State Department might have warned citizens against traveling to Europe. Instead, the alert urges them to take precautions when they do travel.  That is something that should always be done, regardless of threat level.


"We're not saying don't travel to Europe. We are not saying don't visit ... major tourist attractions or historic sites or monuments," Patrick Kennedy, undersecretary of state, told reporters on a conference call.


IMPORTANT LINKS & INFORMATION

Travel Warnings, Country Specific Information & Travel Alerts

U.S. Embassies (Websites of U.S. Embassies, Consulates, and Diplomatic Missions)
State Department's travel registration website - register travel  with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Country Specific Information for each country you plan to visit
Tips for Traveling Abroad which should be followed regardless of threat level

 To obtain up-to-date information on security conditions:

1-888-407-4747 (U.S. & Canada)  or  1-202-501-4444 (world-wide) 

WHAT DOES THE ALERT MEAN FOR YOUR CRUISE TO EUROPE

At a minimum, expect longer lines at security checkpoints across the globe.  You should allow extra time at airports, especially on international flights.   You will see heightened security presence at the airports, including armed law enforcement, dogs, and other security measures.

Additional security measures will be in force at key tourism locations.   If you carry a backpack or other bag, you should anticipate that it will be searched.   Be aware of your surroundings at all time.

Cruise ship security will also be heightened, so you'll need to arrive early to the port and be prepared to wait for boarding.   Here again, security screenings will take longer both at original embarkation and at ports, especially in Europe.

The cruise lines will be monitoring the situation and may adjust itineraries if the situation is warranted.   Federal and local officials will work closely with the cruise lines to ensure safety of all passengers.  

This Travel Alert expires on January 31, 2011.

Friday, October 1, 2010

National Cruise Vacation Month Calendar

Resources to Help You Explore 
the World of Cruise Vacationing

October is National Cruise Vacation Month and we will be sharing useful information with our readers on this blog, our Facebook page, and website. We'll add links to this calendar to help you find related information.

Whether you have never cruised before or a seasoned cruiser, you should find something of interest in the calendar.   Simply click on a calendar day entry to start your exploration.

Bookmark this blog post and visit often for updated links

More Calendars: Nov 2010, Dec 2010, Jan 2011

WLCN 2010 Virtual Expo Starts Today

Explore the World of Cruise Vacationing

If you've ever thought about going on your first cruise, this month is the time to begin that journey.   

We're joining with member travel agencies from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) across the US and Canada to host the online World's Largest Cruise Night an opportunity for travelers like you to learn more about one of the most popular vacations: cruising!

Cruising is all about you. You can find adventure, culture and education or, relax the day away. Dine on fine cuisine. Indulge at the spa. Reconnect with family. Share romantic moments. All this, in the destination of your choice, for a few days, a week or more, on a cruise that's right for you. 
We have a special page with Cruise Line Videos for you to explore.   Just click the cruise line logo of your choice and watch their video.

There are special offers throughout the month.   The highlight will be on October 13th which is designated the World's Largest Cruise Night.    We have a special page (click here) which lists the offers and other information.

Simply click on the cruise line of your choice and see what special deals they have to offer! 

Checkout our Facebook Page
for more Cruising Tips
and Offers



Sunday, September 26, 2010

Reading Between Lines of Carnival Corporation 3rd Quarter Earnings

Carnival Corporation & PLC is a global cruise company and one of the largest vacation companies in the world. Their portfolio of leading cruise brands includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn in North America; P&O Cruises, Cunard Line and Ocean Village in the United Kingdom; AIDA in Germany; Costa Cruises in Southern Europe; Iberocruceros in Spain; and P&O Cruises in Australia.


Carnival LogoHolland America LogoCunard Logo
AIDA Logo



P&O Australia Logo
P&O LogoOcean Village Logo
Seabourn LogoCosta LogoIbero LogoPrincess Logo

Carnival Corporation & PLC (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) reported net income of $1.3 billion, or $1.62 diluted EPS, on revenues of $4.4 billion for its third quarter ended August 31, 2010. Net income for the third quarter of 2009 was $1.1 billion, or $1.33 diluted EPS, on revenues of $4.1 billion.

Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison noted that earnings per share for the third quarter 2010 increased 22 percent over 2009 and were just 3 percent shy of third quarter record profits. The third quarter 2010 operating results were significantly better than anticipated in the company’s June guidance due to the combination of higher than expected revenue yields and lower than expected unit costs.

Commenting on the third quarter, Arison said, “Despite ongoing economic concerns, cruise ticket prices remained strong close to sailing rewarding consumers that booked early. We enjoyed robust demand across all products during our seasonally strong summer period. Our North American brands experienced a significant rebound in peak season revenue yields, increasing more than 10 percent over weak 2009 comparisons.

Revenue yields for our European brands, which absorbed an 8 percent capacity increase, were up 1 percent (constant dollars) cycling relatively strong performance in the prior year. At the same time, our ongoing cost control efforts continued to bear fruit as we drove down operating, selling and administrative costs globally.”

Book Early for Best Prices

There were some key points in the press release from Carnival.   Note that the cruise price close to the actual sailing date stayed strong which means that the early bird gets the worm and those thinking they'd get some sort of last minute deal were very disappointed.   This is no surprise to us.    We have been advising our clients to book early and not to expect last minute discounts. 

People are Vacationing Again

The North American brands continue to perform well as customers return to the seas in hopes of some tranquil waters away from their daily grinds.  Cruising continues to offer great value for your dollar.

Arison noted, “The booking environment has remained solid and we expect revenue yields to continue to improve in 2011 and beyond as the economy regains its footing. Consumers continue to embrace vacations as a much needed escape from the rigors of daily life, while cruising remains an increasingly attractive option for those seeking greater value for their vacation dollar.”

Carnival Corporation Adds New Ships

Continuing with its strategic growth initiatives, the company took delivery of Holland America Line’s 2,106-passenger Nieuw Amsterdam, and signed a new ship order with Germany’s Meyer Werft for the construction of a 2,192-passenger cruise ship for AIDA Cruises to be delivered spring 2013. This marks the seventh new ship ordered for the flourishing German cruise market in the past six years. 

During the fourth quarter Cunard Line’s 2,092-passenger Queen Elizabeth will be christened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in a much anticipated ceremony in Southampton, England. This will be the sixth ship to be delivered this year furthering the company’s strategy to expand its global presence.

What Does Added Capacity Mean

Carnival Corporation is not the only cruise line that has added new ships to their inventory in recent years.  The extra capacity should mean competitive pricing for Winter months as most ships reposition to the Caribbean for those cold months.   We suggest booking when you see what sounds like a good deal, because as the ships fill up, pricing will continue to rise to help maintain record profits.

CLIA's WLCN is just days away -- watch for special offers from Carnival and the other cruise lines.  It is wise to work with a cruise specialist to be sure you are getting the right cruise for you at a value.

National Cruise Vacation Month October 2010


October is National Cruise Vacation Month

WORLD'S LARGEST CRUISE NIGHT OCTOBER 13, 2010


Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 25 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,000 travel agencies.

CLIA’s sixth annual World's Largest Cruise Night (WLCN), a one-day travel agency initiative, is set for October 13th. WLCN is the largest promotion of the year for the cruise industry.

Last year, World’s Largest Cruise Night (WLCN) generated an expected $45 million in cruise sales and nearly $6 million in new commissions for travel agents. Judging by the preparations and announced plans underway, both agents and CLIA member cruise lines are gearing up for an even bigger WLCN 2010.

All Month Long Virtual Event

Once again we will be participating with the “Virtual WLCN” option which extends throughout the month of October and, this year, will feature video of as many as seven cruises lines on our individualized agency WLCN microsite.




Watch for more information about WLCN on our Facebook Page

Thursday, September 2, 2010

New Carnival Cruise Line Cancellation Policy


Carnival Cruise Line just unveiled a new Cancellation Policy for all new FIT and Group business effective September 11, 2010 whereby the cancellation penalty will be the higher of the two amounts between the deposit or 50%/75% penalty window.

When booking your cruise vacation, it is wise to also purchase travel insurance.   No one knows what the future may bring.   People get sick unexpectedly and have to cancel their trip.   The closer that happens to your cruise departure, the more you risk to lose as you can see from the following chart.

Always discuss your options with your cruise specialist.   We offer several polices and can offer guidance on the policy that is right for your circumstances.   Don't run the risk of losing your hard-earned money - travel insured.




DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE DATE CANCELLATION
CHARGE (Per Guest)

2, 3, 4 & 5 day Cruises Up to 61 days None (except Cruise to Nowhere and Early Saver Fares*)
  60 to 46 days Deposit**
  45 to 30 days Deposit or 50% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  29 to 15 days Deposit or 75% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  14 days or less 100% of Total Fare

6 day or longer cruises
(including Alaska and Hawaii)
Up to 76 days None (except for Early Saver Fares*)
  75 to 46 days Deposit
  45 to 30 days Deposit or 50% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  29 to 15 days Deposit or 75% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  14 days or less 100% of Total Fare

Europe Cruises & Panama Up to 91 days None (except for Early Saver Fares*)
Canal Cruises 7,9, & 12 day 90 to 56 days Deposit
  55 to 30 days Deposit or 50% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  29 to 15 days Deposit or 75% of Total Fare, whichever is greater
  14 days or less 100% of Total Fare

All Cruises purchased under the Pack & Go Program Any time after booking 100% of Total Fare

   *The deposit is non refundable.
   **For Cruises to Nowhere, the cancellation charge is 25% of Total Fare.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Azamara Club Cruises Holiday Sailing

Unforgettable Holiday Celebration

Festive Voyage through the Panama Canal 
with Free Air*

16-NIGHT PANAMA CANAL & CENTRAL AMERICA

2-FOR-1SAVINGS & GRATUITIES INCLUDED

Plus, when you book by Aug 31, 2010, you’ll also enjoy
• Club Veranda Stateroom for
the price of a Club Oceanview†
• $1,000 Onboard Credit
per couple with all Club Oceanview and above staterooms
• Free Air from select gateways

Azamara Journey® • Dec 23, 2010 Holiday Voyage
Dec 23 MIAMI, FLORIDA Jan 1 AT SEA
Learn about Huatulco’s indigenous culture
from an onboard expert.
Dec 26 CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
Shop in the beautifully restored Old Town
for a holiday surprise.
Jan 2 HUATULCO, MEXICO
Snorkel in sparkling waters,
watch cooking demonstrations
and enjoy Mexico’s diverse culture.
Dec 27 AT SEA
Indulge in a soothing spa treatment
aboard the ship.
Jan 3 ACAPULCO, MEXICO
Visit the Sea Turtle Rescue Center or swim with dolphins on unforgettable Land Discoveries.
Dec 28 PANAMA CANAL (CRUISING)
Enjoy the spectacular vistas as you cruise the locks and waterways of the Panama Canal.
Jan 4 AT SEA
Delight in fine cuisine paired with boutique wines, complimentary with lunch and dinner.
Dec 29 AT SEA
Enjoy our pool butlers. Need we say more?
Jan 5 CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO
Rendezvous at the romantic hidden beach
of Playa del Amor.
Dec 30 PUNTARENAS, COSTA RICA
Marvel at the majesty of Costa Rica’s rain forests.
Jan 6-7 AT SEA
Sip champagne at an onboard art auction
worthy of your collection.
Dec 31 SAN JUAN DEL SUR, NICARAGUA
Ring in the new year with romance
on a horse-drawn carriage ride in Granada.
Jan 8 SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA