Panama Canal Expansion

Images from our Panama Canal Transit

Panama Canal

100 Years Anniversary

Developing a water passage across the Isthmus of Panama uniting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans dates to the early 16th century. 

Official Opening

August 15, 2014

We won't attempt to cover the history here. Instead, we will focus on a milestone which occurs this year, the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal and the status of expansion plans to bring the canal into its next 100 years. For information on the canal's history, please see the official Panama Canal site.

Panamax

Panamax specifications have been in effect since the opening of the canal in 1914. Ships that do not fall within the Panamax-sizes are called post-Panamax.  Currently ships that are a maximum of 965 feet long and 106 feet wide (beam) can pass through the canal. That typically means the older and smaller ships in a cruise lines' fleet are the only ones that can make the transit. Ships like the Allure of the Seas or the Solstice-class ships are not among them. The new locks would open up possibilities for the larger cruise ships to complete the transit.

Expansion Plans

There are four major parts to the expansion plans.  The purpose of the expansion is to enable post-Panamax vessel transit of the canal.

• construction of two new sets of locks - one on the Pacific and one on the Atlantic side of the Canal
• widening and deepening of existing navigational channels in Gatun Lake
• deepening of Culebra Cut
• new 6.1 km-long access channel to connect the Pacific locks and the Culebra Cut

Each lock will have three chambers and each chamber will have three water re-utilization basins.
For complete details about the plans, see PANAMA CANAL EXPANSION PROGRAM MARCH 2013 (PDF).

Overall, the Expansion Program is 72% complete and at this time, is expected to be open to commercial transits in the second half of 2015.  

The contractor for the new locks, Grupo Unidos por El Canal S.A. (GUPC), is currently threatening a work stoppage due to $1.6 Billion in cost overruns.  The ACP, the autonomous agency of the Government of Panama in charge of managing, operating and maintaining the Panama Canal, has proposed advancing $100 million to GUPC  to allow the contractor to tend to its pending obligations. The contractor must guarantee these funds through a letter of credit. In addition, ACP is willing to extend for a period of two months the moratorium for the repayment of $83 million in advances by GUPC. These would give an additional $83 million for GUPC.

Full story: Panama Canal Proposal to Jointly Contribute $283 Million to New Locks Project

Here is a video published by the ACP describing the Panama Canal Expansion project.

2014 Royal Winter Caribbean Deployment

Bookings are now open on the 2014 Winter Caribbean season on nine ships, PLUS Panama Canal itineraries on Legend of the Seas®.  Adventure of the Seas®and Jewel of the Seas®, sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico Allure of the Seas® and Oasis of the Seas®, sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida Freedom of the Seas®, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida Independence of the Seas®, sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with special holiday sailings from Port Canaveral Legend of the Seas®, sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, PLUS 15–night Panama Canal cruises between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, California Grandeur of the Seas®, sailing Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries from Baltimore, Maryland Serenade of the Seas®, sailing Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries from New Orleans, Louisiana

For more information see  

2014-15 Royal Winter Deployments

2014-15 Royal Caribbean Deployments

Azamara Club Cruises 2014 Deployment

YOU'LL LOVE WHERE WE TAKE YOU

Offering more late-night and overnight stays in port, the award-winning Azamara Club Cruises  announced the 2014 deployment of its twin boutique ships Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.

Up-market travelers can choose among 72 new voyages, ranging from four to 17 nights and visiting 240 fascinating destinations in 66 countries throughout Europe, the Far East, Central and South America, the Caribbean and the Western U.S. coast.

The cruise line’s new 2014 program enables guests to experience the nightlife of compelling destinations around the world that larger ships cannot reach, and includes a record-45 maiden port calls, such as the UNESCO World Geopark Langkawi, Malaysia; Maura in the Sultanate of Brunei; and the charming island-village Vila do Abraao, a favorite Brazilian getaway.

“Azamara’s staff and crew stand ready to deliver our authentic and personable service along with immersive experiences to up-market travelers,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. “One hundred percent of Azamara’s 2014 voyages feature late night and overnight stays in port to offer guests the opportunity to enjoy the nightlife of some of the world’s most vibrant places. There is no better way for travelers to immerse themselves in a destination than with Azamara.”

DESCRIPTION	SAIL DATE(S) 2014	ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Azamara Journey 12- to 17-night East & South China Seas	January - April	Alternating departures from Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Mumbai and Chennai. Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Halong Bay, Borobudur, Parambanan and Sangiran.
Azamara Journey Repositioning cruise	April	Repositions via the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal to arrive for its Europe season
Azamara Journey 4- to 14-night  Europe	Summer	voyages, ranging throughout the Mediterranean, North and Baltic Seas (some examples follow)
Azamara Journey 10-, or 12-night Baltic	July	all feature three full days at St. Petersburg, Russia
Azamara Journey 14-night Food and Wine cruise	August	departing Southampton, U.K., on August 20, which features two-night stays at Nantes (Loire Valley) and Bordeaux, France.
Azamara Quest 10- to 14-night Sea of Cortez and Central America voyages	January - April	Los Angeles, California - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Manzanillo. Mexico - Ixtapa (Zihuatanejo), Mexico - Huatulco, Mexico - Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala - Acajutla, El Salvador - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua - Caldera, Costa Rica (Ports vary by itinerary)
Azamara Quest 10- to 12-night trans-Panama Canal voyages	January, March	a pair of trans-Panama Canal voyages between Miami, Fla., and Costa Rica
Azamara Quest 8-night Coastal Wine Cruise	February	Santa Barbara, California - Monterey, California - San Francisco, California - Ensenada, Mexico - Los Angeles, California
Azamara Quest 11-night less-trodden, jewel islands of the Caribbean	March	St. John, U.S.Virgin Islands - Iles Des Saintes, Guadeloupe - Roseau, Dominica - Gustavia, St. Barts - Charlestown, Nevis - Virgin Gorda, B.V.I. - Miami, Florida
Azamara Quest 15-night trans-Atlantic voyage Miami to Nice	March	Miami, Florida - Ponta Delgada, Azores - Gibraltar, United Kingdom - Cartagena, Spain - Mahon, Menorca, Spain - Cannes, France - Nice, France
Azamara Journey Azamara Quest rendezvous in St. Tropez and Monte Carlo	May 19	for the first time, guests aboard both ships can join in the excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix.
Azamara Quest 7- to 12-night Europe	Summer	mainly in the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean and Black seas
Azamara Quest 11-night Mediterranean Easter sailing	April	sailing, departing April 11, offers guests an overnight at Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome for an opportunity to attend Palm Sunday mass in the Vatican, and at Livorno for Easter Sunday in Florence.
Azamara Quest 7-, 9-, and 12-night Black Sea voyages	July - August	voyages sail from Istanbul. The August 20 voyage takes guests on a comprehensive 12-night itinerary throughout the region, including a call at Sochi, Russia, site of the 2014 winter Olympic Games.
Azamara Journey Holiday Sailings	November	depart from Spain’s Costa del Sol to the beautiful Brazil via the Canary Islands. Travelers can celebrate Christmas and the New Year as they sail from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro.
Azamara Quest Holiday Sailings	November	retrace the Spice Route to the Far East and ring in the New Year in Hong Kong.

Carnival Splendor and Miracle Swap Coasts in 2013

More Cruise Capacity for Big Apple

Every change in cruise ship deployment results in "winners" and "losers".   If you are on the East Coast, you can consider yourself in the win column of this redeployment announced by Carnival Cruises.

Carnival Splendor Moves

to New York in 2013

Carnival will reposition Carnival Miracle to the West Coast following a special Panama Canal voyage, and bring Carnival Splendor to New York, following three spectacular South America cruises. 

Carnival Splendor, a four-year-old, 3,006-passenger ship, will be redeployed in spring 2013 to New York City, where it will sail year-round Caribbean, Bahamas and Florida cruises.  The Splendor had sailed year-round itineraries from Long Beach-to-Mexico since 2009.  The Splendor will be upgraded with Fun Ship 2.0 amenities in a Q4 2012 dry dock.  


For more information on Fun Ship 2.0, see:  Introducing Fun Ship 2.0

Year-Round from New York


Beginning March 23, 2013, Carnival Splendor will launch a year-round schedule of eight-day Caribbean cruises from New York with three uniquely different itineraries that showcase the brilliant diversity of destinations throughout the Caribbean, Bahamas and Florida. 

The eight-day itineraries include Bahamas/Florida cruises with port calls to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla., Nassau and Freeport, The Bahamas; Eastern Caribbean departures with visits to San Juan, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. and Grand Turk; and Exotic Eastern Caribbean cruises to the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk and Nassau. There will also be a special seven-day Bermuda cruise departing April 16, 2013.

Less Capacity for West Coast


The "losers" in this redeployment appear to be those passengers hoping to go to the Mexican Riviera and other parts west from their own backyard port in Long Beach, CA.

All the major cruise lines have been gradually redeploying their ships from the West Coast market, citing increased violence and drug-related incidents in Mexico. 

While on the surface that seems to make sense, given news reports, one has to wonder if that were really the case, would there be any ships sailing there at all.  So, the real truth is that the cruise lines just aren't making the amount of money they'd hope for in that market.

Carnival Miracle, an eight-year-old, 2,124-passenger ship, will move from the Big Apple to the West Coast in Spring 2013.  The Miracle will sail a seasonal Mexican Riviera itinerary along with Alaska and Hawaii itineraries which had currently been offered on Carnival Spirit.  Carnival Miracle recently underwent its facelift with the addition of the adults-only Serenity and other enhancements.

Panama Canal

Carnival Miracle will operate a 15-day Panama Canal cruise from New York to Long Beach March 16-31, 2013, positioning the vessel for its year-round West Coast deployment. In addition to the unforgettable experience of transiting the Panama Canal, the cruise will visit beautiful and historic destinations in five different countries, including Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Mexican Riviera

Carnival Miracle will operate seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach featuring the seaside resort town of Puerto Vallarta and a special two-day visit to beautiful Cabo San Lucas. These popular cruises will be offered in April 2013 and from October 2013 through April 2014.

Alaska

Carnival Miracle will reposition from Long Beach to Seattle in spring 2013 to operate the line’s seven-day “Fun Ship” Alaska program. Following a special eight-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Seattle departing April 29, the week-long voyages will depart from Seattle every Tuesday from May 7 to Sept. 10, 2013, calling at the scenic Alaska destinations of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and cruising Tracy Arm Fjord. This unforgettable Alaskan experience will offer consumers myriad opportunities to explore and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife of The Last Frontier.

 

Hawaii

Carnival Miracle will offer several 15-day Hawaii cruises in 2013 and 2014. Three cruises will operate roundtrip from Long Beach with departures on Oct. 19 and Dec. 7, 2013, as well as Jan. 18, 2014. There will also be a 15-day Hawaii cruise from Long Beach to Vancouver departing April 14, 2013 and another from Vancouver to Long Beach departing Sept. 17, 2013. These voyages feature some of the Aloha State’s most beautiful and breathtaking ports of call, including Hilo, Kona, Nawiliwili, Kahului, and Honolulu.

Carnival Spirit, a ten-year old, 2124 passenger ship, will reposition to Australia to offer the line's first cruises in that region. (more on this in another post).

We will take a closer look at some of the special itineraries, in other posts. 

More Changes for Mexican Ports of Call

MS Oosterdam in Mexican Riviera

New Cancellations for

Mazatlan & Acapulco

Earlier this year we brought you articles about the violence in Mazatlan which prompted several cruise line changes in the Mexican Riviera region.

Holland America Line has just confirmed that the MS Oosterdam, which sails 7-day sailings to the Mexican Riviera from San Diego, will now feature two consecutive days in Puerto Vallarta instead of a visit to Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Several cruise lines, including Holland America, made modifications to schedules earlier in the year following a wave of violence, which included a shooting of a passenger in the leg and another widely publicized shooting in a hotel parking lot.  The changes were made in the abundance of  caution despite Mexican authority promises of increased security.   See our related blog posts: Carnival and NCL Skip Mazatlan Calls and   Cruise Lines Pull Out of Mazatlan   for more background.

Calls for all lines in Mazatlan have fallen from 200 in 2010 to 30 this year, with only about a third of 2011 calls in 2012.  Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Star will return to the region in 2013 with, as of this writing, calls to the traditional ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta during the seven-day voyages from Los Angeles.

Cliff Divers in Acapulco

Acapulco Itinerary Changes

If you were planning on seeing the popular cliff divers in Acapulco on one of Holland America's Statendam's 14-night Panama Canal Explorer cruises sailing from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego or Rotterdam's 30-night Inca Empire South America voyage departing February 3, you will be disappointed. Both ships will spend additional time in Santa Cruz Huatulco instead of a call in Acapulco.

A crime wave began in August, with a reported 148 deaths, prompting the government to  reinforce the local police force of  1500 with an additional 3000 troops from Army, Navy, and Federal Police.   The death toll has fallen since that action, but HAL and luxury line Seabourn have still cut calls in Acapulco. Oceania, Regent Seven Seas and Silversea have left their handful of 2012 calls on the schedule at this time, but all lines will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments in the interest of safety if warranted.  For the lines that have pulled out, they will work with local authorities to determine when and if it is safe to resume calling in the port.

See our International Travel tab her or on our Facebook Fan page  for important information for anyone traveling abroad.  You need to be aware of entry / exit requirements, health concerns and precautions, and any travel advisories for any port of call that you visit.   There are general guidelines to make your vacation worry free to the extent that it can be.   Being prepared and aware of your surroundings is the best advice we can give you when traveling, even at home.

Specifically,

For those traveling to Mexico, please consult the U.S. State Department's Travel Warnings at:

Mexico Country Specific Information

Cunard 2013 World Voyages

Two Queens Explore the World

Cunard announced the 2013 World Voyage program. Two queens, QUEEN MARY 2 and QUEEN VICTORIA, will depart from Southampton on 10 January 2013 and begin their epic world sailings with two distinct itineraries. These historic voyages will be available for reservations starting 14 July 2011 at 5:00 a.m. PDT (8:00 a.m. EDT).

Special Early Booking incentives for reservations made by 29 February 2012: Up to 10% off Early Booking Fares* Reduced deposit of 15%# On Board Credit of up to $3,000^ per stateroom for Full World and Liner Voyages!†

Full World Voyage† Benefits: Complimentary hotel and dining charges Gala World Voyage Dinner Special commemorative gifts Welcome Aboard Reception & Senior Officer Dinner World Voyage cocktail parties Services of a World Voyage Concierge

Queen Mary 2 World Cruise 2013

On 10 January 2013, the grandest ocean liner at sea will sail the world roundtrip from Southampton to exciting destinations that inspire the imagination. Highlights: • Overnight stays in Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai and a two-night stay in Cape Town • 6 Maiden calls including Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Langkawi, Malaysia, and Port Elizabeth, South Africa • Combine with Transatlantic Crossings to create voyage options out of and into New York

Queen Victoria World Cruise 2013

QUEEN VICTORIA makes a triumphant return to the World Voyage in 2013. Convenient departures from New York, Fort Lauderdale, and San Francisco bring this remarkable journey closer to home. Highlights: • 105-day circumnavigation of the globe • Overnight stays in Sydney, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Dubai • 9 Maiden calls including Falmouth, Jamaica, Brisbane, Australia, Bali, Indonesia and Manila, Philippines

QUEEN ELIZABETH Travels to Exotic Destinations in 2013

In addition to these epic World Voyages, in 2013 QUEEN ELIZABETH will embark on a 36-day Pearls of the Pacific Voyage roundtrip from Los Angeles through the Hawaiian Islands and South Pacific. Guests may choose to extend their voyage with a 15-day Panama Canal experience at the beginning, end, or both!

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.

Mary Hart Christens Oceania Marina

Oceania Marina Arrives in Miami - Courtesy Oceania Cruises

"May God Bless Marina and All Who Sail On Her"

Entertainment Tonight''s host, Mary Hart, was onhand in Miami to do the honors of christening Oceania Cruises newest ship, Marina.  She presided at the ceremony last weekend, saying of the opportunity, "It’s very exciting, and a bit humbling. ... I'm truly honored to serve as the Godmother for Marina -- she will be a very special ship."

The christening, which is part of maritime tradition, was held in conjunction with a lavish invitation-only gala ceremony which culminated with a 15-liter Nebuchadnezzar of champagne, custom-made by Armand de Brignac, crashing against the hull.

Marina, which set sail on its inaugural voyage to Nassau, Bahamas, is a 66,000 ton ship that can carry 1,250 guests. It has 10 dining areas, luxury boutiques and a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub.  It is a ship of firsts, featuring the first Bon Appétit Culinary Center, Master Chef Jacques Pépin’s first namesake restaurant at sea, Ralph Lauren Home-furnished Owner’s Suites, luxurious accommodations by Dakota Jackson, a Wine Spectator wine program and a Lalique grand stairway.

Watch the video to see what luxuries this mammoth ship has to offer and to find out what special Cartier gift Mary is given!  Spend time with Mary onboard Marina before the actual ceremony.

Click to watch video

Oceania Cruises’ new Marina arrived in Miami on February 4, after her maiden voyage from Barcelona. Following a short preview cruise, on February 8 she will depart on the first of two 18-day Panama Canal transits that visit San Francisco and San Diego, both new ports for Oceania Cruises. Marina then operates a 12-day Caribbean cruise, round-trip from Miami, departing March 16, before sailing along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard and on to Europe to begin her inaugural Mediterranean season.

January Azamazing Offers

Azamazing Values

OFFERS AND SAVINGS TOUCH EVERY CONTINENT

Europe, Asia, West Indies

EUROPE 2011 VOYAGES

• 2-for-1 savings

Azamara Journey

• Gratuities included

• 50% savings on pre-booked Land DiscoveriesSM

(shore excursions) beginning April 11 on Azamara Journey® 

and May 6 Azamara Quest®

BOOK BY MARCH 31, 2011 AND RECEIVE

– $2,000 early booking savings per couple

– Up to $2,000 ChoiceAir credit per couple 

depending on stateroom category

ASIA SELECT VOYAGES

Jan 22, 2011 | Mar 17, 2011 | Apr 12, 2011 | Apr 24, 2011

Asian Delights

• 2-for-1 savings

• Gratuities included 

BOOK AN OCEANVIEW STATEROOM OR HIGHER AND RECEIVE

– $2,000 per couple ChoiceAir credit

– $500 onboard spending credit per booking

WEST INDIES, PANAMA CANAL, 

SEA OF CORTEZ SAILINGS

Mar 11, 2011 | Mar 23, 2011

• 2-for-1 savings

• Gratuities included 

BOOK AN OCEANVIEW STATEROOM OR HIGHER AND RECEIVE

– Free or reduced air 

– Club Veranda stateroom for the price of a Club Oceanview stateroom

– Open bar

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy, for individual bookings, cruise only, in USD, and subject to availability. Rates may vary by ship, departure 

date, and stateroom category.  All rates, offers and itineraries are subject to change without notice. Offers may be withdrawn at any time.  Government taxes & 

fees are additional.

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

Princess Fall 2011–Spring 2012 Americas Program

Caribbean & Mexican Riviera

Nothing says escape like the warm, welcoming islands of the turquoise Caribbean and the colorful culture of the Mexican Riviera. Princess® has a variety of festive voyages sailing the Caribbean on five ships in 2011 and 2012, visiting over 20 of the region’s very best ports. Frolic on white sand beaches and swim above coral reefs on islands such as St. Thomas, Antigua and Tortola. Or cruise to festive Mexican ports like Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

Panama Canal

It’s a modern wonder winding through 51 miles of jungle, mountain and granite to connect the world’s two greatest oceans - The Panama Canal. It’s also one of the most popular destinations for cruising, and is high on most travelers’ lists of the world’s “must-see” landmarks. Which is why Princess offers such a wide variety of ways to experience the Canal. In 2011 and 2012, you can join one of several incredible Princess itineraries to see its mighty locks up close. Choose voyages from 10 to 19 days with either partial or full transit or with a 2-Day Experience.

 Coastals

Getaways of 1 to 7 days along the Pacific Coast are a wonderful, relaxing way to escape for those with less time. These convenient sailings are offered in 2011 and 2012 on four ships, including Island, Coral, Golden and Sapphire Princess,® and include our popular 7-day Wine Country Coastal sailing, a 7-day California Coastal roundtrip from Los Angeles and 1- to 4-day Pacific Coastals. It’s the perfect easy getaway to leave your responsibilities behind and enjoy all the leisurely activities, entertainment and amenities of a Princess® ship.

Highlights of 2011-12 Americas Program

• Caribbean: Five ships with 12 itineraries visiting over 20 sun-kissed ports; sailings range from 7 to 14 days. Crown Princess sails a NEW 7-day Western Caribbean and a NEW 7-day Southern Caribbean itinerary, both roundtrip out of Ft. Lauderdale.
• Panama Canal: Princess is the best choice for Panama Canal cruising with five itinerary options in all, including two NEW 14-day options -- one with a full transit and one with a full transit and a 2-Day Canal Experience. Plus, there are 10-day partial transits and full transits on sailings of 15 to 19 days.
• Mexican Riviera: Sapphire Princess offers 11 sailings of our popular 7-day itinerary roundtrip from Los Angeles, featuring festive Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán.
• West Coast Cruising: Sapphire Princess sails NEW 7-day California Coastals, roundtrip from Los Angeles. Additional coastal cruises include our popular Wine Country 7-day cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver. We also have a selection of additional 1- to 5-day coastal getaways available on select ships. 

More information about Princess Cruises ships and itineraries (click here)

Bookings are being accepted starting June 17th

Carnival Announces Price Increases

Photo courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

Wave Season Ending Soon
Prices to Increase

Do you remember my post, Now is the Time, from last December? In that post, I told you that in a meeting that I had with cruise line executives, they foretold of increasing prices. Ladies and Gentlemen ... That Day Is HERE.

For those not familiar with the term "Wave Season", this is the most important time for the cruise line industry during the year. It runs from mid-January through early Spring and besides being the most important time, it is also the busiest time.

Carnival Cruise Line announced yesterday that they have seen record bookings for the current Wave Season and as a result of the strong reservation activity for 2010 departures, have announced a general price increase that will become effective March 22nd.

Carnival President and CEO Gerry Cahill said, "We're seeing significantly increased volume as consumers are taking advantage of the incredible value that a Carnival cruise provides. And while pricing hasn't fully recovered to 2008 levels, we are increasing prices and will implement an across-the-board increase effective March 22."

He said that the price increases will vary by departure date but will be up to 5 percent.

Cahill attributed the record booking activity to a wide range of factors, including strong travel agent partner support, targeted marketing initiatives, itinerary enhancements and the wide variety of close-to-home departure points.

Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 15 days in length to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England and Europe.

Carnival also has two new ships on order -- the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, which is scheduled for delivery in 2011, and a sister ship set to debut in 2012.

So, just as I predicted last December, this is only the first of many such announcements which I've been expecting. If you have plans to take a summer vacation with your family this year, I strongly encourage you to book now. We are here to help you. As Cruise Specialists, we are experts in finding the right cruise to meet your requirements. Even with price increases, a cruise is still the best travel value out there.

Currently we are featuring Up to a 2-Category Upgrade on Carnival. Find More Carnival Cruises Here.

Queen Victoria Pretty in Pink

Photo Courtesy Cunard Line

QUEEN VICTORIA in SYDNEY

Cunard Line's Queen Victoria, illuminated in pink while berthed at Sydney’s Circular Quay, made history today. Queen Victoria was bathed in vibrant pink light from dusk to support Australia’s National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), which officially launched its 2010 fundraising target of $17 million at an event onboard. Pink lights illuminated the entire ship, providing the ideal setting for the event.

Why Pink?

“Pink has become synonymous with the fight against breast cancer, so we are delighted to offer NBCF the opportunity to boost awareness of research and claim a world first by being the first to illuminate a liner in pink,” said Peter Shanks, president of Cunard Line.

It is not surprising that Cunard Line was a part of this NBCF kickoff event. Parent company, Carnival Corporation, has been a long-time supporter of Breast Cancer fund-raising. Their On Deck for the Cure program benefits the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation.

Additional history making events are planned for Queen Victoria. Early next year she sails her first "Americas" season, traversing the Panama Canal on more than one voyage, making rare roundtrip sailings from Los Angeles to Hawaii, plus debuting her maiden Mexico Getaway voyage. For more information about Queen Victoria sailings, click here.

NCL Freestyle Bonus Alaska & Panama Canal

Offer Details (Click Here)

ANY SAILING. ANY DESTINATION.
HURRY - OFFER ENDS MARCH 14
(And the best staterooms go first.)

The Year of the Freestyle Vacation

Norwegian Cruise Line continues their Year of the Freestyle Vacation celebration with the next of the Special Bonus offers. The current offer highlights their Alaskan and Panama Canal Cruises. Find Your Cruise

Alaska The Last American Frontier

Alaska is America's last great true frontier, an unspoiled wilderness of glimmering glaciers, abundant forests, towering mountains, exotic wildlife, and waterfront communities. Alaska is a destination full of Native American culture and Russian influence -- a step back in time to the days of gold rush saloons and oil booms. Alaska, simply put, is a once in a lifetime, dream vacation.

Have you ever seen America's national symbol, the Bald Eagle, up close? Or would you like to see a mother bear with her newborn cub? These are just a couple of the possibilities on an Alaska Cruise.

Panama Canal Engineering Marvel

In 1903, the United States began construction of the Panama Canal, one of the world's most amazing feats of modern engineering. It took 10 years, $387 million dollars, and tens of thousands of lives to build the 50 mile "ditch" connecting two continents!

Because they sail from the East Coast to the West Coast (or visa versa) a Panama Canal Cruise gives you the opportunity to see many of the same ports you may see on cruise to the Mexican Riviera, the Western Caribbean, or Southern Caribbean. It is almost like 4 cruises in one.

Select Alaska or Panama Canal or one of Norwegian Cruise Line's other destinations and do whatever you want whenever you want on a Freestyle Vacation.

*Offer valid through March 14, 2010. Two week bonus offer valid from 1/18/2010 to 1/31/2010. Minimum 2 category upgrade, maximum 6 category upgrade. One coupon booklet (value up to $400) per stateroom. Offer applies to 2010 sailings only. Restrictions apply. Contact your Cruise Consultant for complete details .NCL Itineraries

Celebrity Cruises Exclusive January Sale

CELEBRITY CRUISES

The January offers have started to cross my desk. Here is advance notice to my followers about an exclusive WTH, CruiseOne, Cruises Inc. Celebrity Cruises offer. Choose from several of Celebrity Cruises fabulous itineraries aboard their award-winning ships, ranging from their smallest to their largest ships in the fleet.

Where would you like to go in 2010? Have you made a bucket list? What's on your list?

Perhaps the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, or Panama Canal ??? Somewhere warmer like Bermuda or the Caribbean ??? Check out these destinations and see which ones interest you.

Book an Ocean View stateroom or above on any mentioned Celebrity departure
and receive UP to $100 in Onboard Credit (per stateroom)
7 – 10 Night Itineraries - $50 Onboard Credit
11 + Night Itineraries - $100 Onboard Credit
Booking Window: January 7 – February 4, 2010

Celebrity Constellation®

7 Night Mediterranean
September 25; October 2, 2010

13 Night Westbound Panama Canal
February 28, 2010

12 Night Scandinavia/Russia
May 28, 2010

Celebrity Millennium®

10 Night Southern Caribbean
March 5, 26, 2010

14 Night Westbound Panama Canal
April 16, 2010

7 Night Alaska
May 14, 21, 2010

Celebrity Century®

12 Night Mediterranean
June 27; July 9; August 26: September 7, 2010

Celebrity Infinity®

14 Night Eastbound Panama Canal
April 11, 2010

Celebrity SolsticeSM

7 Night Eastern Caribbean
March 21, April 4, 18; May 2, 16, 2010

7 Night Western Caribbean
April 25; May 9, 23; June 6, 2010

Celebrity Mercury®

7 Night Alaska
August 29, 2010

11 Night Eastern Caribbean
October 18, 2010

Celebrity Summit®

7 Night Southern Caribbean
February 27, March 27; October 30, 2010

7 Night Bermuda
April 25; May 9, 30, 2010

7 Night Canada/New England
August 29, 2010

Contact me for complete details about this offer. For best selection, contact me early.

Holland America 3 Day Sale

HOLLAND AMERICA 3-DAY SALE TIME

Sale ends Friday, September 11

at 11:59 p.m., Pacific Time

Select from any of the following destinations and a variety of eligible sailings (contact me for details - too many to list here):

Alaska Cruises & Cruisetours (May/June 2010 sailings)
Upgrade to an outside stateroom from $100 select sailings!

Great Land Klondike Cruisetours
Great Land Wilderness CruiseTours
Glacier Discovery CruiseTours
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside on select sailings!


Asia (October/November 2009 sailings)
Upgrade to an outside stateroom from $100 select sailings!

Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific (Januaray - April 2010 sailings)
Upgrade to an outside stateroom from $100 select sailings!

Caribbean (October 2009 - January 2010 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside on select sailings!

Europe (October 2009 - May 2010 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside, or upgrade to an outside stateroom from $100 on select sailings!

Hawaii (December 2009 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside or upgrade to an outside stateroom from $100 on select sailings!

Holiday (December 2009 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside on select sailings!

Mexico (October 2009 - January 2010 sailings)
Upgrade to an outside stateroom from $50 – $100 on select sailings!

Panama Canal (October 2009 - February 2010 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside on select sailings!

South America October 2009 - April 2010 sailings)
Get an outside stateroom for the price of an inside, or upgrade to an outside stateroom from $50 – $100 on select sailings!

The list of ships and special cruises are just too numerous to list. Contact me for complete details, but don't wait too long as these deals will go fast. You can also check my web site for a list of Holland America sailings.

Princess Cruises 3 Day Sale

First Ever Princess Cruises 3 Day Sale

September 10 - 12, 2009

Announcing 3 ways to save on Princess® cruises to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Panama Canal and the Mexican Riviera in Spring 2010 with our first-ever 3-Day Sale!

Book a Princess Cruise to one of these destinations during this limited-time event and receive:

Incredible Savings

• 7-day Caribbean & Mexico from only $499*
• 10-day Panama Canal from as low as $1,099*
• 14-day Hawaii from just $1,199*

Up to $100 "cash back" per Stateroom

• Up to $50 on 7-day sailings*
• Up to $100 on 10- to 19-day sailings*
  

FREE Balcony Upgrades*

• Balcony staterooms at Oceanview fares!*

Terms & Conditions: *Up to $100 "cash back" per stateroom refers to an onboard credit, applies to January-April Caribbean, Mexico, Panama Canal and Hawaii 2010 sailings and varies according to category booked and sailing duration. Passengers booked in an Interior or Oceanview stateroom on a 6-9 day voyage will receive an onboard credit of $25 per stateroom; passengers booked in an Interior or Oceanview stateroom on a 10+ day voyage will receive an onboard credit of $50 per stateroom; passengers booked in a Balcony stateroom or above on a 6-9 day voyage will receive an onboard credit of $50 per stateroom; and passengers booked in an Balcony stateroom or above on a 10+ day voyage will receive an onboard credit of $100 per stateroom. Reservations must be made and deposited between September 10-12, 2009. Deposits made under this promotion are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Offer is applicable to first/second-berth passengers only. Third/fourth-berth passengers are not eligible. Passengers with single occupancy will receive the per stateroom credit amount. Onboard credit may be used on a single voyage only and expires at the end of that voyage. Prior to disembarkation, please visit the Passenger Services Desk onboard to redeem any unused onboard credit. Offer is not transferable, is not combinable with other select offers or other onboard credits and applies to legal residents of the United States or Canada. Onboard credit is quoted in U.S. dollars. Void where prohibited by law.

Fares apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares are per person, non-air, cruise-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two passengers in a stateroom. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth passengers. Fares may remain at discounted level after this promotion. Government fees and taxes of up to $279.27 per person are additional, are subject to change and may be higher for Canadian residents. Princess reserves the right to impose a Fuel Supplement of up to $9 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has already been paid in full. This offer is capacity controlled and may not be combinable with any other public, group or past passenger discount, including shipboard credits. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Ask about our optional air add-on program. See the applicable Princess Cruises' brochure or princess.com for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings. Please reference promotion code: R3D.

Princess Cruises Itineraries