Disney to Sprinkle Pixie Dust on Magic

You've Probably Heard the News...

Disney Magic will be 

Re-Imagined This Year

We thought we'd take a different approach to the latest news coming out of Disney Cruise Line by looking at Disney Magic then (1998) and now (2013).

First, the News...

Disney Cruise Line has announced that they will sprinkle some pixie dust on the 15 year old Disney Magic vessel which will transform the ship into something closer to the more recent additions to the line, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The ship will be taken out of service from September 7 to October 10 for its biggest-ever refurbishment. The operation, being done in Cadiz, Spain, will cover restaurants, bars, the spa, the atrium, cabins and kids' spaces, and will include the addition of an AquaDunk water attraction that can be seen in the photo above. It will be similar, but quite different to the AquaDuck on the Dream-class ships.

It's 1998...

When the Disney executives decided to enter the Cruise market in the 90's, they set about bringing the on-land Disney family experience to sea. Obviously, there were some standard features that are needed on a cruise ship that they started with, but they made some changes geared towards family entertainment and the Disney culture.

Most notably missing was the casino, which could be found on most other ships of the same size, currently sailing the seven seas. Disney wanted to have entertainment for the entire family to enjoy throughout the day and into the evening. Therefore, they added an entire deck's worth of space devoted to kids and family activities, and two technologically advanced theaters which featured evening entertainment appropriate for all ages. 

Cabins were another area that needed attention for families traveling together. The standard outside cabin (with or without balcony) was clearly designed with families in mind. Beds convert from twins to queen and are placed in the middle section near a curtain that divides the bedroom area from the sitting area, which is particularly useful at night, after the kids are asleep. In the sitting area, there's a sleeper sofa, coffee table, desk and color television. Balcony cabins are plentiful at 44 percent of outside staterooms.

After the Pixie Dust Settles...

Guest this Fall will be amongst the first to see the changes that occur during the month-long dry-dock including the following: 

• AquaDunk on the Disney Magic is a thrilling three-story body slide that begins with a surprise launch, sending guests on a near-vertical drop and through a translucent tube that extends 20 feet over the side of the ship.
• The grand atrium lobby on the Disney Magic, inspired by elegant art deco and elements of the sea, features a palette of vibrant coral, blue and aquamarine, a dazzling new chandelier and a grand staircase.
• The vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro creates an energetic atmosphere in Carioca's, a new restaurant on the Disney Magic. During the day, buffet meals feature a festival theme before night falls and the atmosphere transforms into an after-hours scene of Rio de Janiero, with city-side windows softly illuminated and lanterns flickering overhead. 
• Disney Cruise Line's popular adult-exclusive Palo restaurant receives a makeover on the Disney Magic, with stylish wood fixtures, glass artwork panels, decorative lighting and hand-tufted carpet.  
• Animator's Palate on the Disney Magic, one of the most popular restaurants on the Disney ships, is updated with all-new, animation-adorned walls and larger high-definition flat-screens to provide the best views of the animation magic that takes place all around. 
• Cabanas on the Disney Magic, drawing inspiration from Australian influences with uniquely Disney touches, includes a beach-themed dining room that has beach umbrellas and teak Adirondack chairs to create a sunny "down under" décor for guests. 
• Fathoms on the Disney Magic is a night club inspired by the excitement of the sea that utilizes special effects, lighting and sound to create different atmospheres from early evening to night. 
• The youngest (and smallest) cruisers --- ages three months to three years --- can enjoy the new It's a Small World Nursery on the Disney Magic. 
• Mickey Mouse Club is a new youth area in Disney's Oceaneer Club on the Disney Magic where kids can create crafts and play games on custom, ear-shaped tables, in a room splashed with Mickey's signature colors of red, yellow and black.  
• Keys on the Disney Magic is a piano bar and lounge perfect for guests wanting a low-key nighttime experience. 

These are but a few of the many changes onboard the re-imagined Disney Magic, which will emerge following the completion of its dry-dock in October.

To learn more about the changes and see an album with the Disney Imagineers renderings, become a fan on our Facebook Page and click the Disney Link on our Welcome Page.

Click on this image to go there now.

The newly reimagined Disney Magic will sail from Miami this fall! Enjoy 3-, 4- and 5-night Disney Cruise Line sailings to the Bahamas, or 5-night Western Caribbean cruises, all departing from this vibrant South Florida city. Explore the Everglades by airboat, stop by Little Havana, soak up the sun on South Beach and more!

Silversea's Explorer No Match for Mother Nature

Silver Explorer in Antarctica courtesy Silversea Cruises

Wave Crashes into Ship

Injuring Crew

Interrupts Voyage

 
Silver Explorer departed Ushuaia, Argentina, in early January, for an 18-night cruise to Antarctica.On January 12th, somewhere between Tierra del Fuego and the Antarctica,  a wave came crashing into the ship's bridge injuring four crew members.   They were treated in the medical center onboard the vessel and according to Silversea Cruises all 133 guests and 113 crew are safe.

Impacts Current & Next Cruise

   

According to reports, the damage was severe enough to interrupt the current voyage and cancel the upcoming Antarctic sailing scheduled for January 21st.   If reports are accurate, the wave would have struck the vessel about 30 feet above sea level.

The ship was returning to the embarkation port in Argentina where it will then proceed to an undisclosed location for repairs.  It wasn't clear how long those repairs would take, but the line said it 

anticipated that Silver Explorer would resume its normal Antarctic schedule with a 10-night voyage departing Ushuaia on January 31st.

Impacted passengers have been notified by the line or their travel agents.   It is believed that the line is offering discounted future sailings or refunds to the affected passengers.

While it is unfortunate that the current voyage was cut short, and an upcoming voyage cancelled, dashing hopes of passengers visiting the arctic region, we are happy to report there doesn't appear to be any serious injuries as a result of the incident.   

Learn More about Silver Explorer (click here)

 

Pride of America Gets Make-Over

Pride of America

Enhancements in 2013

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that its U.S.-flagged cruise ship, Pride of America, which sails the Hawaiian Islands, will undergo a $30M refurbishment in Spring 2013.

The ship will enter a 14 day dry-dock in Honolulu, HI, March 23, 2013, at which time it will receive major renovations including the addition of 24 ultra-luxurious suites, four Studio staterooms and four inside staterooms; Moderno Churrascaria, the line's signature Brazilian-style steakhouse; ship wide wireless internet connectivity; new carpeting throughout; flat screen televisions in all staterooms; updated décor; upgrades to the fitness center; new directional signage; renovations to the gift shop, photo gallery and art gallery; and much more.

Deck 13 Transformation

• Four Studio cabins will be added for solo travelers
• Twenty-four suites will be added
• Four inside cabins

Deluxe Owners Suites

•  Two  566 square foot suites
•  sleeping up to four guests
•  large bedroom, separate living area 
• 410 square foot balcony
•  premium custom furnishings, fabrics, carpets
•  state of the art bathroom featuring custom mosaic tiles
•  connecting doors to the adjacent Family Suites
•  sleeping up to 10 guests when combined
•  perfect option for families or groups who wish to travel in luxury together

Family Suites

•  ranging from 363 to 416 square feet
•  most sleeping up to six guests
•  two ADA compliant for guests with disabilities
•  245 square foot balcony

All of the new suites and staterooms will go on sale October 1, 2012 for sailings beginning September 7, 2013.

 

Additional Enhancements 

 

Green means "go" for food

Moderno Churrascaria

• Norwegian's signature Brazilian-style steakhouse
• cost is $20 per person  

Cagney's Steakhouse

•  Lazy J's Steakhouse will be converted

If you aren't familiar with these signature restaurants, see our past blog posts for more details - these are big favorites of passengers on other ships.    Dine like a Norwegian !!

 
Additional Renovations

•  new carpeting throughout the ship
•  flat-screen TVs in all cabins
•  upgrades to the fitness center
•  new directional signage
•  renovated gift shop, photo gallery and art gallery
•  updated decor in the Aloha Cafe, the ship's buffet restaurant

Pride of America will return to her seven-day Hawaii itinerary departing from Honolulu every Saturday when she returns to service in early April 2013. Ports of call include an overnight in Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawai`i; Kona, Hawai`i; an overnight in Nãwiliwili, Kaua`i; and an afternoon cruise past the breathtaking Nãpali Coast.  This ship is the only one in the entire industry that sails a seven-day itinerary in the islands.

Avalon Panorama Mid-Cruise Repairs

Newest Avalon 

River Cruise Ship

Panorama

Unexpected Dry Dock

A brand new kind of ship, the Avalon Panorama set sail in 2011, taking inspired design to a whole new level. A unique 'Suite Ship', the Avalon Panorama was the first of its kind in the industry - with two full decks of suites featuring a Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window that transforms the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony.

    Built: 2011        Length: 443 ft.        Crew Members: 47        Staterooms: 17        Suites: 66

Propeller Repairs Needed

Avalon Panorama was unable to cruise at maximum speed due to a propeller problem that developed last Wednesday evening.  The cruise continued as planned, albeit at a slower speed, until Friday when passenger accommodations were made in Vienna hotels.   The cruise itinerary  then continued via bus while the ship underwent the propeller repairs in a dry dock facility in Linz.

The passengers and ship were scheduled to be reunited this morning in Krems where the cruise would continue as planned.   The next scheduled departure for Avalon Panorama is August 24th for a 14-Night Magnificent Europe, Budapest to Amsterdam cruise.


Had this same situation occurred on a large cruise ship, it may have meant the termination of the cruise.  The logistics to accommodate 166 passengers is much easier than for more than 1,000 passengers on the larger vessels.  We applaud Avalon Waterways for making every effort to continue the cruise.


If you aren't familiar with river cruising, we invite you to view our special page about the differences.   Warning - once you try river cruising, you might have a hard time returning to larger ships.

Royal Makeover for Freedom of the Seas

2011 - The Year of the Makeover

For Royal Caribbean Fleet

Last November we reported that Royal Caribbean International® had scheduled dry-dock make-overs for five of their 22 ships.   When unveiling the the new enhancements to their fleet for 2011, Royal Advantage^SM was announced.   The program would expand their most popular innovations to select ships, giving more to see, more to do, and more to love, to more guests than ever before.

The five ships being updated are as follows: Liberty of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Splendour of the Seas.     Read more:  Introducing Royal Advantage

Video:

The matriarch of the Freedom class was just enhanced with the BRITTO Gallery, ImagineOcean! Puppet Show, a nursery and more. Sails 7-night itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, to vibrant Caribbean destinations.

Some of the new features added during the 7 day drydock included The Cupcake Cupboard, 3-D Movie Screens and the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery.   

Carnival Legend Gets a Facelift

Carnival Legend Serenity Area - Photos Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

Warm Caribbean Breezes Calm Seas

Tranquility & Relaxation

Now on Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend emerged from a 14-day dry dock this weekend with a new look.   A variety of enhancements were made, including a renovated children’s pool area, and the addition of Serenity, an exclusive adults-only retreat.

Carnival Legend Serenity

Serenity Adults-Only Retreat

Carnival Legend became the 13^th Carnival ship to feature a Serenity area. Designed as an oasis for tranquility and relaxation, Serenity offers colorful, oversized umbrellas, comfortable chaise lounges and chairs, whirlpools, a full bar and breathtaking sea views.

One of the great benefits of a cruise vacation is there is something for everyone.  For adults, it is good to take some time and get away from the everyday routine and unwind.   There is no better place to do that on a Carnival cruise ship then in this adult-only area.   Whether you want sun or shade, there are comfortable chairs and chaise lounges.   Read a book,  sip your favorite beverage, take a dip in the whirlpool, or simply catch some Zzzzzzzzz's  - the choice is completely yours.   And, there are no kids to disturb you.

Carnival Legend Children's Pool

Pool Gets an Uplift

The ship’s children’s pool area now features colorful new tiles in vibrant sea-animal designs, while the casino has been reconfigured with additional slot machines and poker tables. Other enhancements include new upholstery and chairs in the Lido restaurant, dining room and dance club.

Carnival Legend sails to the Caribbean on year-round seven-day sailings from Tampa.

Carnival Legend - Itineraries & Pricing (click)

Carnival Legend Ship Facts & Itinerary 7- Night Western Caribbean - Tampa, Florida R/T
Total Staterooms - 1,062 Decks - 12 Passenger capacity - 2,124 Total crew - 930 Officer's nationality - Italian	Ship size - Large Tonnage - 88,500 Ship length - 963   Maiden Voyage - 2002 Registry - Panama	Sunday - Tampa Monday - At Sea Tuesday - Grand Cayman Wednesday - Cozumel Thursday - Belize Friday - Roatan Saturday - At Sea Ports & order may vary

Carnival Splendor to Leave San Francisco and Return to Service

Carnival Splendor Repaired

Last November, Carnival Splendor experienced an engine fire that would put her out of service for several months and cost Carnival Corporation millions of dollars in repairs and lost revenue.   Fortunately, there were no serious injuries or loss of life in the fire.  Carnival Splendor's comeback journey follows.

After being towed back to San Diego, Carnival Splendor's fire investigation and repair work began.  A replacement engine would be needed, which caused additional down time for the ship. Since the ship was originally built in Italy, it was necessary to have the replacement engine manufactured there and shipped back to California, where it would be installed in a dry-dock facility in San Francisco.  It was necessary to cut a hole in the hull to remove the damaged engine and replace it with the new one.

This brings you up to date... The repair work is now completed and the ship is ready for sea trials and a return to service where it will resume Mexican Riviera cruises February 20th.   The ship will depart San Francisco and return to Long Beach, California as follows:

FEBRUARY 14: CARNIVAL SPLENDOR SEA TRIALS AND VOYAGE TO LONG BEACH

FEBRUARY 19: CARNIVAL SPLENDOR ARRIVES AT LONG BEACH CRUISE TERMINAL

FEBRUARY 19: TRAVEL AGENT FUNCTION

FEBRUARY 2O: CARNIVAL SPLENDOR RE-ENTERS SERVICE

John Heald, Carnival's Senior Cruise Director, will join the ship for the sea trials and host the special event February 19th.  Carnival Corporation officials asked John to do the honors since he was the calm voice that passengers and crew heard that fateful day in November when Alpha, Alpha, Alpha woke up passengers and crew early that morning.

Related Blog Posts:

Carnival Splendor Heads North for More Repairs
Carnival Splendor Cruise Cancellations Extended
Carnival Splendor Repair Status
Carnival Splendor Fire Investigation 
Assisting Carnival Splendor 
Carnival Splendor Without Power After Engine Fire 
Carnival Splendor Cruises Cancelled until January 16

Radiance OTS 2011 Makeover

2011 - The Year of the Makeover

For Royal Caribbean Fleet

Last November we reported that Royal Caribbean International® had scheduled dry-dock make-overs for five of their 22 ships.   When unveiling the the new enhancements to their fleet for 2011, Royal Advantage^SM was announced.   The program would expand their most popular innovations to select ships, giving more to see, more to do, and more to love, to more guests than ever before.

The five ships being updated are as follows: Liberty of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Splendour of the Seas.     Read more:  Introducing Royal Advantage

Exciting News for the Solo Traveler

If you travel much, you are familiar with the term "double occupancy".    It has been the pricing standard in the travel industry (including cruises) for as long as I can recall.   Hotels and cruise lines provide pricing based on two people occupying a room / cabin.   If you are traveling alone, you still pay the price that two people would pay, and in some cases, even more.

In the cruise industry, even though pricing is double occupancy,  quotes are provided on a per person basis.    For the solo traveler, the pricing includes what's called "single supplement".   Over simplified, this is a fancy way of saying that you pay the same price as two occupants or even more.   Sometimes there are lower rates during a promotion, but that is fairly rare.  

Obviously this makes traveling alone quite expensive and quite frankly turns many potential cruisers away, which is quite unfortunate.   What about the married couple that has cruised for years and their mate is now too sick to travel or is no longer alive?    Does that mean they have to now give up one of their favorite pastimes?    In many cases, unless they could find someone to travel with them, that was indeed what happened.

Good news ...    Last year Norwegian Cruise Line was the first to introduce cabins specifically designed for the solo traveler, and more importantly, priced for the single traveler.    No more paying the price for sailing alone.    Photos:  Norwegian Epic Studio Cabins

goes into dry-dock this May, and will emerge in June in time for the Alaskan cruise season.   In addition to the previously announced addition of the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, there will be three inside cabins added for solo travelers.   This will be the first for the Royal Caribbean fleet.    We suspect that Royal Caribbean is testing the waters to see how well the cabins are received. 

We see this as a positive step in accommodating  a segment of the public that has been unable to purchase a cruise vacation due to the penalty pricing for solo travelers.   It's only three cabins, which is dwarfed by the 100 cabin offering on Norwegian Epic, but it is a start.    Norwegian Cruise line has two new ships on order which will further expand the solo studio offerings.      I suspect this is only the first of many more changes for the solo travelers in months and years to come.

Radiance of the Seas Sails from Seward to other adventurous Alaskan cities, including Juneau and Skagway.

Carnival Splendor Heads North for More Repairs

Carnival Splendor after fire in November, 2010

Carnival Splendor Sails to San Francisco for Further Repairs

Many of you have been checking back for updates on Carnival Splendor.  As we mentioned back in mid-December, the Splendor would have some repair work done in San Diego and then sail to San Francisco to have work completed at a dry dock.   That was scheduled for mid-January. 

Today marks a major milestone in the long journey back to service for the Splendor.

UPDATE FEBRUARY 2, 2011 (click following link for latest)

Carnival Splendor to Leave San Francisco and Return to Service

Carnival Splendor Sails North Today

It's hard to believe it's been two months since the Carnival Splendor was towed into San Diego following the engine room fire.   The ship will leave the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal today and sail under its own power to a dry-dock facility in San Francisco, where repairs will be completed.

Carnival Splendor has been out of service since Nov. 8, when a fire broke out in the ship’s engine room during a cruise to the Mexican Riviera. The 952-foot vessel was left without power while offshore of Ensenada. With more than 3,000 passengers aboard, Splendor was towed by tug boats into San Diego Bay on Nov. 11, led by the U.S. Coast Guard. Passengers disembarked at the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal and the ship was then moved to the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal on Nov. 18 for the industrial portion of the repairs.

“It’s really a testament of how San Diego came together, including the Port of San Diego, to assist an important customer, Carnival Cruise Lines,” said Joel Valenzuela, director of the port’s maritime operations. “It required working with all of our partners, and our customer base at the cargo terminal to coordinate shipments of goods and space allocation for imports while the Splendor was under repair.”

Carnival Splendor will be accompanied by two tugs as a safety precaution during its multi-day voyage north, according to Coast Guard officials.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Carnival Cruise Lines is still saying that  Carnival Splendor  will return to service February 20, 2011.  It operates year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera voyages from Long Beach.  Since Carnival Splendor is one of the last ships in this market, this is very important to the West Coast economy as well as tourism in the Mexican Riviera.

Related Blog Posts:

Carnival Splendor Cruise Cancellations Extended
Carnival Splendor Repair Status
Carnival Splendor Fire Investigation 
Assisting Carnival Splendor 
Carnival Splendor Without Power After Engine Fire
Carnival Splendor Cruises Cancelled until January 16

Carnival Splendor Cruise Cancellations Extended

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES CANCELS

ADDITIONAL VOYAGES 

OF CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 

AS REPAIRS CONTINUE

Ship Now Scheduled to Re-Enter Service February 20 

Carnival Cruise Lines has announced additional cancellations of Carnival Splendor.  The January 16, 23, 30 and February 6 and 13, 2011, voyages were canceled to allow for additional repair time following the engine room fire aboard the vessel in November. 

UPDATE FEBRUARY 2, 2011 (click following link for latest)

Carnival Splendor to Leave San Francisco and Return to Service

Update:   The investigation is ongoing, but the U.S. Coast Guard has released preliminary findings

USCG Generates Recommendations Following Splendor Fire

Carnival Splendor needs new generator, alternators, switchboard parts

Carnival's statement indicated that as the repairs have been progressing, additional problems were uncovered requiring additional repair time.  In addition, some parts were unavailable and had to be manufactured in Europe.

The ship is currently in San Diego, however, it will sail to San Francisco in mid-January where repairs will be completed at a dry dock facility.

"We sincerely apologize to our guests for having to cancel these additional cruises," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival's president and CEO.  "We made our best effort back in November to estimate the necessary repair time with a strong goal of not having to modify it at a later point in time.  Unfortunately, as the repairs have progressed and we have discovered additional issues, it is now clear that we need more time.  We know this is extremely disappointing for our guests and particularly disheartening for those who already had their vacations cancelled once and are now being affected again."

As has been the case with the earlier cancellations, guests booked on the cancelled voyages will receive a refund or future cruise credit equal to the amount paid, along with reimbursement of air transportation-related change fees. Those who re-book may also receive a 25 percent future cruise discount and/or onboard credit depending on the ship and sailing date of the new booking.

Additional details can be found in Carnival Splendor's Travel Advisory statement.

While this is disappointing, Carnival Cruise Line has once again tried to accommodate guests impacted by this accident.   We all look forward to the day when Carnival Splendor will once again be sailing the seven seas with passengers enjoying the repaired ship.

Related Blog Posts:


Carnival Splendor Repair Status
Carnival Splendor Fire Investigation 
Assisting Carnival Splendor 
Carnival Splendor Without Power After Engine Fire
Carnival Splendor Cruises Cancelled until January 16

The Pictures Tell The Story

Princess Cruises Upgrades Fleet

Photos: Credit Princess Cruises

Princess Updates Fleet

Princess® plans to upgrade its fleet with innovative offerings and services, even as other cruise lines are pulling back. This fall, Island Princess® and Diamond Princess® will enter dry-dock and emerge with their
latest exclusive features.

Island Princess will be getting her makeover in Victoria, B.C. in September, and Diamond Princess will be sprucing up in exotic Singapore in October.

Diamond Princess will sparkle with the addition of The Sanctuary, where, you will enjoy more personal space, attentive Serenity Stewards, a variety of refreshing beverages and light snacks, and an opportunity for a soothing massage in a tranquil outdoor environment.

Movies Under the Stars®

And it will be “Lights, Camera, Action!” when Princess trademark feature, Movies Under the Stars®, is installed on both ships. If you haven’t watched a blockbuster movie or sporting event on their dramatic 300-square-foot movie screen, then you’re in for a treat.

Popcorn anyone?

Comfortably seated on poolside loungers, you’ll enjoy this enhanced viewing experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and cozy warm blankets.

Princess Cruises has plans to build 2 new ships, but in the meantime, why not improve the existing fleet with features which will enhance the cruise experience.  Plan on a cruise next year on Diamond or Island Princess to see these changes yourself.

Carnival Ship Makeovers

Carnival Ecstasy - A Ship Out of Water

October, 2009 we were in Freeport Bahamas, on our annual conference cruise, the same time Carnival Ecstasy was getting a major makeover.  The multi-million-dollar refurbishment included the addition of an expansive new water park, an exclusive adults-only retreat, a Circle “C” facility for 12- to 14-year olds, and a redesigned resort-style main pool area. Additionally, 98 balconies were added to existing ocean view staterooms.   All of the ship’s 1,026 staterooms were upgraded with new plasma screen TVs as well as updated wall coverings, tile work, carpeting and light fixtures. Many additional cosmetic improvements were made in the public areas.

Carnival Ecstasy was the second ship to have additional balconies added following the success of a similar implementation on the Carnival Sensation earlier in 2009.  This continues a series of major upgrades to the line’s eight Fantasy-class vessels sparking new life into those ships.

A Peaceful Retreat

My favorite improvement is Serenity SM, an adults-only retreat, located aft on Promenade Deck. With design elements that include teak decking, large umbrellas and thatched roofing, Serenity provides an ocean-going oasis for relaxation and comfort. Guests can enjoy icy cocktails and frozen drinks while relaxing in plush chaise lounges and chairs. Food service is available in the casual Panorama Bar & Grill located nearby.

Water, Water, Everywhere

A signature element of the Fantasy-class upgrades is Carnival WaterWorks SM, a fun-filled aqua park located on Verandah Deck. Designed with an all-ages appeal, WaterWorks encompasses a 300-foot-long twisting, turning water slide – the longest and most elaborate at sea – along with dual-lane 82-foot-long racing slides, and a wide variety of water spray toys.

In addition, Carnival Ecstasy’s main pool on Lido Deck – which includes a swimming pool and two large whirlpools – was totally transformed to feature a distinct resort-style ambiance. Vibrant oversized umbrellas, thatched roofing and colorful tile work creates a decidedly tropical feel.

Oh, to be a Teen Again

The addition of a new Circle “C” SM center, located on Atlantic Deck 8, is aimed at the 12- to 14-year-old set.  The facility  includes plasma screen televisions displaying movies and music videos, a high-tech sound and lighting system, gaming consoles and a touch-screen jukebox.  This is a great place to hang out with newly found friends during the cruise.

Recent Carnival Ship Enhancements

The Carnival Glory received the following enhancements upon completion of dry dock in mid February; Serenity SM adult only retreat, Carnival's Seaside Theater®, Circle “C”SM youth program for ages 12 to 14, 18 more balcony staterooms, “Your Time Dining” on the upper level of the forward dining room, a new Mongolian Wok in the Lido area and Wi-Fi from bow to stern.

After extensive refurbishments were completed February 1, 2010, the Carnival Fascination now offers these new enhancements; Carnival WaterWorks SM, Serenity SM, a resort-style pool, 98 more balcony staterooms, upgraded main dining rooms, “Your Time Dining” in the forward dining room, a Mongolian Wok and Rotisserie in the Lido area and Circle “C”SM youth program for ages 12 to 14.   Watch Video of Carnival Fascination in Dry Dock

The Carnival Freedom emerged from dry dock in December 2009 with the following updates; Serenity (a first for Carnival Conquest class,) Circle “C”SM youth program, 18 new Balcony staterooms and “Your Time Dining” in the forward dining room.

Carnival Cruise Line continues to invest in improving the product it offers to the general public.  I'm sure you'll agree that these changes greatly enhance the cruise experience.   While these ships aren't new, the changes make one feel like they are on a new ship.   Learn more about the Carnival "Fun Ships".

Carnival Fascination Gets a Make-Over

Carnival Corporation announced that Carnival Fascination will undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation in January 2010 that will include the addition of a new water park, adults-only retreat, and resort-style main pool area, as well as 98 balconies added to existing ocean view staterooms. Two other ships, Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Sensation are also receiving additional balconies during dry docks this year. Carnival Seansation's work has been completed and Carnival Ecstasy will have the work completed in October.

The refurbishment includes a number of exciting open deck features, including Carnival WaterWorks with 82-foot-long racing slides, a splash zone and the aqua park's signature design element - a 300-foot-long Twister water slide. The main pool on Lido deck will also be transformed with oversized umbrellas, colorful tile work and thatched roofing, creating a relaxing, resort-style atmosphere. An adults-only retreat, Serenity, completes the outdoor improvements.

The refurbishment will also include upgrades to the Sensation and Imagination main dining rooms, with the Sensation dining room being reconfigured for Your Time Dining.

The majority of the additional balcony staterooms will be located aft with several of them featuring extended balconies. Twenty-four balconies will be located mid-ship and twelve near the stern. Several of the existing suites will be retrofitted with larger, extended balconies.

Prior to the January dry dock, a new Circle “C” facility for 12- to 14-year-olds will be added on Atlantic Deck 8. The facility will include plasma screen TV’s displaying movies and music videos, a high-tech sound and light system, gaming consoles and a touch-screen jukebox.

Carnival Fascination sails four and five day cruises from Jacksonville, Florida. These new enhancements will be introduced for the first time on the February 1, 2010 sailing. Reservations are open for the 98 new balcony staterooms, so contact me right away if this intersts you.

Carnival Fascination Sailings