[caption id="attachment_575" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Bald Eagle and the American Flag"][/caption]
I wrote a post last week about Carnival Cruise Lines' sale in honor of Veterans Day. Today Princess Cruise Lines is promoting their on board military credit program. Available to active and retired members of the armed forces of the United States and Canada, the on board credit ranges from $50 to $250 per stateroom, dependent upon length of cruise.
“As I discovered when I
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
All I Want For Christmas....
[caption id="attachment_571" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="50 Years Of Victory "][/caption]
Quark Expeditions is marketing, one suspects with tongue in cheek, its 20th Anniversary expedition to the North Pole as the perfect Christmas gift. The 15 day trip begins in Helsinki, Finland on June 23, 2011 and includes the charter flight roundtrip to Murmansk, Russia the cruise's embarkation and disembarkation port.
Expedition members will sail on 50 Years of Victory, the pride of the
Quark Expeditions is marketing, one suspects with tongue in cheek, its 20th Anniversary expedition to the North Pole as the perfect Christmas gift. The 15 day trip begins in Helsinki, Finland on June 23, 2011 and includes the charter flight roundtrip to Murmansk, Russia the cruise's embarkation and disembarkation port.
Expedition members will sail on 50 Years of Victory, the pride of the
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
There's Got To Be A Morning After
[caption id="attachment_568" align="alignleft" width="279" caption="Carnival Splendor"][/caption]
You undoubtedly have heard the news reports. Carnival Splendor, with 3299 passengers on board, is adrift at sea after a fire early Monday morning in one of the engine rooms. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it left the ship dead in the water. The crew was able to restore power to some critical systems, but basic hotel functions remain inoperative. Passengers are without air conditioning, h
You undoubtedly have heard the news reports. Carnival Splendor, with 3299 passengers on board, is adrift at sea after a fire early Monday morning in one of the engine rooms. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it left the ship dead in the water. The crew was able to restore power to some critical systems, but basic hotel functions remain inoperative. Passengers are without air conditioning, h
Monday, November 8, 2010
Ocean Cruise? River Boat Cruise? Why Choose?
[caption id="attachment_564" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Emerald Princess "][/caption]
Princess Cruise Line has come up with something quite interesting for next summer. Cruise tours are nothing new. They give passengers an opportunity to extend their trip beyond the scope of a cruise and explore areas not easily accessible from the ship. Think Alaskan lodges or three nights in Beijing, for example.
On July 31, 2011. however, Princess will offer a cruise tour which is actu
Princess Cruise Line has come up with something quite interesting for next summer. Cruise tours are nothing new. They give passengers an opportunity to extend their trip beyond the scope of a cruise and explore areas not easily accessible from the ship. Think Alaskan lodges or three nights in Beijing, for example.
On July 31, 2011. however, Princess will offer a cruise tour which is actu
Thursday, November 4, 2010
NCL Still Likes Singles
[caption id="attachment_561" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Studio Cabin on Norwegian Epic "][/caption]
Yeeesss!
If you have been reading this blog for a while, you will have undoubtedly noticed that I have a particular interest in options for single cruisers. This is, however, not a wholly altruistic penchant. I have, on occasion, failed to take advantage of an opportunity to cruise because no one I know is in a position to travel with me. Single supplements and the lack of
Yeeesss!
If you have been reading this blog for a while, you will have undoubtedly noticed that I have a particular interest in options for single cruisers. This is, however, not a wholly altruistic penchant. I have, on occasion, failed to take advantage of an opportunity to cruise because no one I know is in a position to travel with me. Single supplements and the lack of
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
A Stenbeck Anniversary
[caption id="attachment_552" align="alignleft" width="141" caption="National Geographic Sea Bird"][/caption]
Lindblad Expeditions will mark the 70th anniversary of John Steinbecks's "The Log From The Sea of Cortez" with a special Baja California expedition. The expedition will both recall Steinbeck's famous journey with his friend, biologist Ed Ricketts, and explore the marvelous and extensive natural beauty and ecosystem of the sea that so captivated them.
In 1940, both men set out to s
Lindblad Expeditions will mark the 70th anniversary of John Steinbecks's "The Log From The Sea of Cortez" with a special Baja California expedition. The expedition will both recall Steinbeck's famous journey with his friend, biologist Ed Ricketts, and explore the marvelous and extensive natural beauty and ecosystem of the sea that so captivated them.
In 1940, both men set out to s
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Veteran's Day Promotion From Carnival
[caption id="attachment_548" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Carnival Dream"][/caption]
Carnival Cruise Line has announced a promotion in honor of Veteran's Day. This is similar to a promotion the cruise line offered active and retired military personnel last Memorial Day. You'll find my post about the last promotion here. The press release follows:
"In honor of Veteran’s Day, Carnival Cruise Line is offering a promotion throughout November that allows active and retired
Carnival Cruise Line has announced a promotion in honor of Veteran's Day. This is similar to a promotion the cruise line offered active and retired military personnel last Memorial Day. You'll find my post about the last promotion here. The press release follows:
"In honor of Veteran’s Day, Carnival Cruise Line is offering a promotion throughout November that allows active and retired
Monday, November 1, 2010
Drugs At Sea
[caption id="attachment_541" align="alignleft" width="175" caption="Serenade of the Seas"][/caption]
Sometimes you just have to shake your head in disbelief.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers had a busy day October 24th in San Juan. In two separate, apparently unrelated incidents, a total of four passengers from the Serenade of the Seas, fresh from a seven-night Caribbean cruise, were taken into custody for drug possession.
In the first incident, Diana Hortencia Latigua-Lore
Sometimes you just have to shake your head in disbelief.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers had a busy day October 24th in San Juan. In two separate, apparently unrelated incidents, a total of four passengers from the Serenade of the Seas, fresh from a seven-night Caribbean cruise, were taken into custody for drug possession.
In the first incident, Diana Hortencia Latigua-Lore
Thursday, October 28, 2010
River Boat Cruising In Russia Has A New Star
[caption id="attachment_539" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Suite On Board MS Amakatarina"][/caption]
MS Amakatarina, the offspring of the partnership between AMA Waterways and APT, remains on schedule for its debut in May. APT released artists' impressions today which highlight the luxurious suites awaiting its first passengers, one of the benefits of the 14 million dollar reconstruction of the highly anticipated ship.
According to Debra Fox, APT's General Manager, Marketing, "c
MS Amakatarina, the offspring of the partnership between AMA Waterways and APT, remains on schedule for its debut in May. APT released artists' impressions today which highlight the luxurious suites awaiting its first passengers, one of the benefits of the 14 million dollar reconstruction of the highly anticipated ship.
According to Debra Fox, APT's General Manager, Marketing, "c
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
MSC Cruises Has A Birthday Present For (Some Of) You!
[caption id="attachment_534" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="MSC Poesia"][/caption]
If you just happen to celebrate your birthday between November 14th and December 19th, and you're in the market for a cruise, MSC Cruises has a present for you.
Only a lucky few can take advantage of this special offer. If you're one of them, your present is valid, space permitting, on the following sailings departing from Ft. Lauderdale:
Eastern Caribbean cruise, calls in St. Thomas, U.S. Virg
If you just happen to celebrate your birthday between November 14th and December 19th, and you're in the market for a cruise, MSC Cruises has a present for you.
Only a lucky few can take advantage of this special offer. If you're one of them, your present is valid, space permitting, on the following sailings departing from Ft. Lauderdale:
Eastern Caribbean cruise, calls in St. Thomas, U.S. Virg
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Small Ship Cruising In Alaska
[caption id="attachment_526" align="alignleft" width="272" caption="Spirit of Alaska/Baranof Dream "][/caption]
The gap in Alaskan small ship cruising created by the demise of Cruise West last month has been filled. Allen Marine Tours, based in Sitka, Alaska, has announced the launch of Alaskan Dream Cruises, operating two of Cruise West's 78 passenger vessels, the Spirit of Columbia and tne Spirit of Alaska. renamed the Admiralty Dream and the Baranof Dream. The new line will also operat
The gap in Alaskan small ship cruising created by the demise of Cruise West last month has been filled. Allen Marine Tours, based in Sitka, Alaska, has announced the launch of Alaskan Dream Cruises, operating two of Cruise West's 78 passenger vessels, the Spirit of Columbia and tne Spirit of Alaska. renamed the Admiralty Dream and the Baranof Dream. The new line will also operat
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Rumors Are True
[caption id="attachment_518" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Norwegian Gem"][/caption]
Well, the rumors that I wrote about last month have now been confirmed. Norwegian Cruise Line has reached an agreement with Meyer Werft to build two new ships for delivery in Spring 2013 and Spring 2014. Coming in at 143,500 tons, the ships will be the largest built in Germany.
The contract price for the two ships is 1.2 billion euros. NCL has estimated the passenger capacity for the ships w
Well, the rumors that I wrote about last month have now been confirmed. Norwegian Cruise Line has reached an agreement with Meyer Werft to build two new ships for delivery in Spring 2013 and Spring 2014. Coming in at 143,500 tons, the ships will be the largest built in Germany.
The contract price for the two ships is 1.2 billion euros. NCL has estimated the passenger capacity for the ships w
Saturday, October 23, 2010
River Boat Cruising On The Hudson River
[caption id="attachment_512" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="American Cruise Line's Independence "][/caption]
Friday morning was a beautiful day in New York, clear and crisp. I arrived at the MetroNorth platform at the usual time. Today, however, we harried commuters had a bit of a treat. Directly opposite the platform, much closer to the New Jersey coast, was a cruise ship. At first it didn't quite register. My first thought was that it was a very large private vessel, b
Friday morning was a beautiful day in New York, clear and crisp. I arrived at the MetroNorth platform at the usual time. Today, however, we harried commuters had a bit of a treat. Directly opposite the platform, much closer to the New Jersey coast, was a cruise ship. At first it didn't quite register. My first thought was that it was a very large private vessel, b
Friday, October 22, 2010
Regent Ups The Ante
[caption id="attachment_509" align="alignleft" width="230" caption="Seven Seas Mariner"][/caption]
Once you've thrown in airfare, drinks, excursions, gratuities and taxes, what's a cruise line to do? How do you entice hesitant cruisers to make a buying decision? Price cutting is an option high end travel companies are loathe to employ and do so only when all else fails. Once prices are reduced, suppliers encounter a great deal of resistance from consumers when they attempt to restore pr
Once you've thrown in airfare, drinks, excursions, gratuities and taxes, what's a cruise line to do? How do you entice hesitant cruisers to make a buying decision? Price cutting is an option high end travel companies are loathe to employ and do so only when all else fails. Once prices are reduced, suppliers encounter a great deal of resistance from consumers when they attempt to restore pr
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Why?
[caption id="attachment_506" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="Waterfall - Jeju Island"][/caption]
Their saga has been widely reported. 44 Chinese nationals jumped ship on Korea's Jeju Island on Sunday. More prosaically, and more accurately, they disembarked Costa Classica for a day's outing on the resort island with many of their fellow passengers and failed to return. Had you been present at the time, you would have been able to identify them - they were the people carrying their
Their saga has been widely reported. 44 Chinese nationals jumped ship on Korea's Jeju Island on Sunday. More prosaically, and more accurately, they disembarked Costa Classica for a day's outing on the resort island with many of their fellow passengers and failed to return. Had you been present at the time, you would have been able to identify them - they were the people carrying their
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
[caption id="attachment_500" align="alignleft" width="250" caption="Norovirus"][/caption]
A number of news stories are circulating about the outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness inflicting a small number of passengers on board the Caribbean Princess. I think it is safe to conjecture that the culprit is the Norovirus, a not so rare guest on cruise ships in recent years.
What struck me as amusing was the reaction, as reported in some of these articles, of the residents of Saint John, New
A number of news stories are circulating about the outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness inflicting a small number of passengers on board the Caribbean Princess. I think it is safe to conjecture that the culprit is the Norovirus, a not so rare guest on cruise ships in recent years.
What struck me as amusing was the reaction, as reported in some of these articles, of the residents of Saint John, New
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Sometimes When It Rains, It Pours
[caption id="attachment_498" align="alignleft" width="240" caption="Costa Classica "][/caption]
I imagine this is a week that can't end soon enough for the captain and crew of the Costa Classica. On Sunday, 44 Chinese passengers essentally jumped ship while docked at Korea's Jeju Island. Actually, they simply disembarked with everyone else, seemingly intent on enjoying a day on the resort island. Unlike the other passengers, however, they never returned to the ship. It was subsequentl
I imagine this is a week that can't end soon enough for the captain and crew of the Costa Classica. On Sunday, 44 Chinese passengers essentally jumped ship while docked at Korea's Jeju Island. Actually, they simply disembarked with everyone else, seemingly intent on enjoying a day on the resort island. Unlike the other passengers, however, they never returned to the ship. It was subsequentl
Monday, October 18, 2010
Bitchin' and Moanin'
[caption id="attachment_493" align="alignleft" width="175" caption="Oasis Of The Seas"][/caption]
I saw a news item yesterday that left me scratching my head.
In May, in the midst of a Nassau - St. Thomas - St. Martin sailing, Royal Caribbean's Oasis Of The Seas was forced to return to Nassau to search for a missing crew member. The focus soon shifted to the fear that the crew member had attempted suicide by jumping off the ship. The Oasis and her crew then spent an additional 12 hours w
I saw a news item yesterday that left me scratching my head.
In May, in the midst of a Nassau - St. Thomas - St. Martin sailing, Royal Caribbean's Oasis Of The Seas was forced to return to Nassau to search for a missing crew member. The focus soon shifted to the fear that the crew member had attempted suicide by jumping off the ship. The Oasis and her crew then spent an additional 12 hours w
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
AMA Waterways Launches A Sale
[caption id="attachment_486" align="alignleft" width="180" caption="MS AmaLyra"][/caption]
AMA Waterways, one of the principal operators of river boat cruises worldwide, has announced a major sale. According to the press release:
"Award-winning river cruise line, AMA Waterways announces the World's Largest River Cruise Sale, featuring an exciting array of offers on select 2010 and 2011 cruises. The promotions are designed to support CLIA's World's Largest Cruise Night and "National Cru
AMA Waterways, one of the principal operators of river boat cruises worldwide, has announced a major sale. According to the press release:
"Award-winning river cruise line, AMA Waterways announces the World's Largest River Cruise Sale, featuring an exciting array of offers on select 2010 and 2011 cruises. The promotions are designed to support CLIA's World's Largest Cruise Night and "National Cru
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Message In A Bottle
[caption id="attachment_481" align="alignleft" width="206" caption="Message in a Bottle"][/caption]
While sailing on board the Pacific Princess off Vanuatu's Mystery Island, Australians Glenda Parker and her late husband Ross who, at the time, had just been diagnosed with heart problems, decided to put a message in a bottle, along with a $2 coin and a pen.
Now, 6 and a half years and 1400 miles later, the bottle has washed up on Sandon Beach in Australia, reports The Northern Star.
"I o
While sailing on board the Pacific Princess off Vanuatu's Mystery Island, Australians Glenda Parker and her late husband Ross who, at the time, had just been diagnosed with heart problems, decided to put a message in a bottle, along with a $2 coin and a pen.
Now, 6 and a half years and 1400 miles later, the bottle has washed up on Sandon Beach in Australia, reports The Northern Star.
"I o
Sunday, September 26, 2010
To The Panama Canal!
[caption id="attachment_477" align="alignleft" width="235" caption="Isalnd Princess"][/caption]
I just finalized a booking on the Island Princess, departing on February 28th from Ft. Lauderdale for a full transit of the Panama Canal. Fifteen days later, having visited Aruba, Cartegena, Fuerte Amador, Puntarenas, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and, of course, the Canal itself, and luxuriated in seven glorious sea days, we'll arrive in Los Angeles.
My sister and I treated my mother to a birthday
I just finalized a booking on the Island Princess, departing on February 28th from Ft. Lauderdale for a full transit of the Panama Canal. Fifteen days later, having visited Aruba, Cartegena, Fuerte Amador, Puntarenas, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and, of course, the Canal itself, and luxuriated in seven glorious sea days, we'll arrive in Los Angeles.
My sister and I treated my mother to a birthday
Friday, September 24, 2010
River Boat Cruises Return to The Mississippi After All
For the past week or so, the hopes of a re-birth of overnight river boat cruises on the Mississippi River seemed to have died with the closure of Cruise West. It was just this past June that Cruise West announced with great fanfare their intention to relocate one of their West Coast-based ships to the Mississippi River in 2011. Regularly scheduled overnight river boat cruises on the Mississippi River ended in 2008, when the Delta Queen Steamships sailed for the last time.
But now along co
But now along co
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Breaking News
Seatrade Insider is reporting that Cruise West has ceased operations. Dick West, Chairman and Managing Director is quoted as saying:
"I have never given up hope that we might be able to find a way to survive by working with the various interested parties. I am absolutely heartbroken that this family legacy has come to an end. We have done absolutely everything to maintain operations, but with limited resources and the current tight financial market, we simply cannot continue."
Such a
"I have never given up hope that we might be able to find a way to survive by working with the various interested parties. I am absolutely heartbroken that this family legacy has come to an end. We have done absolutely everything to maintain operations, but with limited resources and the current tight financial market, we simply cannot continue."
Such a
Friday, September 10, 2010
Wither Cruise West?
[caption id="attachment_456" align="alignleft" width="230" caption="Spirit of Oceanus"][/caption]
Cruise West announced on Tuesday that it had new owners and stopped taking reservations for future cruises. Very little information has been forthcoming, other than an assurance that several cruises scheduled for the remainder of September and early October will sail as scheduled. 65 employees have been laid off.
Cruise West's website now carries a simple notice, shedding very little addi
Cruise West announced on Tuesday that it had new owners and stopped taking reservations for future cruises. Very little information has been forthcoming, other than an assurance that several cruises scheduled for the remainder of September and early October will sail as scheduled. 65 employees have been laid off.
Cruise West's website now carries a simple notice, shedding very little addi
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Have You Heard The Rumor?
[caption id="attachment_452" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Norwegian Epic"][/caption]
Rumors swirled about the cruise industry over the weekend that Norwegian Cruise Line has signaled its intention to build at least two, and perhaps three, new ships. NCL would take delivery of the first in 2013. The contract is said to be with Meyer Werft, the German shipbuilding enterprise. The new ships will represent a new class within NCL's fleet, and are thought to be planned to come in
Rumors swirled about the cruise industry over the weekend that Norwegian Cruise Line has signaled its intention to build at least two, and perhaps three, new ships. NCL would take delivery of the first in 2013. The contract is said to be with Meyer Werft, the German shipbuilding enterprise. The new ships will represent a new class within NCL's fleet, and are thought to be planned to come in
Saturday, September 4, 2010
River Boat Cruises In Russia And The Ukraine
There are two main options for river boat cruises in Russia and the Ukraine - sailing along the Volga and Svir rivers in Russia and the Dneiper River in the Ukraine.
The cruise between Moscow and the incomparable St. Petersburg, Peter the Great's "Window on the West", is the classic river boat cruise in Russia. This cruise, bookended as it were by Russia's two principal cities, typically visits two of the Golden Ring cities en route, Uglich and Yaroslavl (founded in 1010). Other stops, at
The cruise between Moscow and the incomparable St. Petersburg, Peter the Great's "Window on the West", is the classic river boat cruise in Russia. This cruise, bookended as it were by Russia's two principal cities, typically visits two of the Golden Ring cities en route, Uglich and Yaroslavl (founded in 1010). Other stops, at
Thursday, September 2, 2010
River Boat Cruises in South East Asia
While there are numerous opportunities of varying length and quality for river boat cruising on the rivers of Southeast Asia, there are two of particular interest.
The mighty Mekong River rises in Yunan Province in China and flows through 5 countries before emptying into the South China Sea. The most appealing river boat cruise on the Mekong is the 7 day sailing between Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Siem Reap in Cambodia, with a visit to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, en route. Along th
The mighty Mekong River rises in Yunan Province in China and flows through 5 countries before emptying into the South China Sea. The most appealing river boat cruise on the Mekong is the 7 day sailing between Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Siem Reap in Cambodia, with a visit to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, en route. Along th
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
River Boat Cruises in Egypt
"Egypt is the gift of the Nile. Nowhere are there so many marvelous things, nor in the world besides are to be seen so many things of unspeakable greatness."
Thus wrote Herodotus, the Greek historian, in 325BC. Remarkably, this is no less true 2500 years later. River boat cruises are an ideal way to witness these wonders yourself - for much of the country, the only practical way. To sail the Nile is to sail back in time. Life along its banks continues as it has for thousands of year
Thus wrote Herodotus, the Greek historian, in 325BC. Remarkably, this is no less true 2500 years later. River boat cruises are an ideal way to witness these wonders yourself - for much of the country, the only practical way. To sail the Nile is to sail back in time. Life along its banks continues as it has for thousands of year
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
River Boat Cruises in China
[caption id="attachment_426" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Victoria Jenna"][/caption]
River boat cruises in China are essentially limited to the great Yangtze River. Rising in the Tibetan Palteau and traversing the width of China before emptying into the East China Sea near Shanghai, the Yangtze -at 3915 miles- is the third longest river in the world, behind the Amazon and Nile rivers. Historically, the Yangtze marks the division between North and South China.
While there are
River boat cruises in China are essentially limited to the great Yangtze River. Rising in the Tibetan Palteau and traversing the width of China before emptying into the East China Sea near Shanghai, the Yangtze -at 3915 miles- is the third longest river in the world, behind the Amazon and Nile rivers. Historically, the Yangtze marks the division between North and South China.
While there are
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
River Boat Cruises in Europe
[caption id="attachment_265" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="The Viking Pride"][/caption]
Europe has the most developed and extensive river boat sector in the world. River boat cruises are offered along the Danube, Main, Rhine, Moselle, Rhone, Saone, Seine and Douro rivers. Competition is brisk and the selection wide. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, AMA Waterways, Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways, in addition to many smaller companies, all have numerous vessels plying Euro
Europe has the most developed and extensive river boat sector in the world. River boat cruises are offered along the Danube, Main, Rhine, Moselle, Rhone, Saone, Seine and Douro rivers. Competition is brisk and the selection wide. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, AMA Waterways, Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways, in addition to many smaller companies, all have numerous vessels plying Euro
Friday, August 13, 2010
Paradise on Sale
[caption id="attachment_402" align="alignleft" width="79" caption="Paul Gauguin"][/caption]
French Polynesia is definitely on my list of must-see places. It is said to be exquisitely beautiful, often cited by returning visitors as the most beautiful place they have ever been. One of these days...
How about you? Have you dreamed of sailing around the Society Islands, feeling the warm sun on your face, sinking your feet into the white powder sand, swimming in the clear, clean water?
French Polynesia is definitely on my list of must-see places. It is said to be exquisitely beautiful, often cited by returning visitors as the most beautiful place they have ever been. One of these days...
How about you? Have you dreamed of sailing around the Society Islands, feeling the warm sun on your face, sinking your feet into the white powder sand, swimming in the clear, clean water?
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Legendary Journeys
[caption id="attachment_396" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Seven Seas Voyager"][/caption]
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering some remarkable savings on segments of its 2011 World Cruise on Seven Seas Voyager. Dubbed "Legendary Journeys", these sailings offer remarkable ports of call for those with the necessary time and resources.
Guests will enjoy 2-for-1 cruise fares plus additional bonus savings of up to $3000 per person, in addition to the all-inclusive amenities always o
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering some remarkable savings on segments of its 2011 World Cruise on Seven Seas Voyager. Dubbed "Legendary Journeys", these sailings offer remarkable ports of call for those with the necessary time and resources.
Guests will enjoy 2-for-1 cruise fares plus additional bonus savings of up to $3000 per person, in addition to the all-inclusive amenities always o
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Celebrity's August Promo Is In Full Swing
[caption id="attachment_392" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Celebrity Eclipse"][/caption]
Celebrity is currently running a nice promotion for its Fall/Winter season in the Caribbean. From now through August 14th, book a veranda, Concierge Class or AquaClass® stateroom, or a suite for a Caribbean vacation, and you’ll receive up to a $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The credit can be used toward a large number of on board options.
The Solstice, the Eclipse, and the Summit wi
Celebrity is currently running a nice promotion for its Fall/Winter season in the Caribbean. From now through August 14th, book a veranda, Concierge Class or AquaClass® stateroom, or a suite for a Caribbean vacation, and you’ll receive up to a $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The credit can be used toward a large number of on board options.
The Solstice, the Eclipse, and the Summit wi
Monday, August 9, 2010
Maybe Magic Really Does Exist
[caption id="attachment_386" align="alignleft" width="120" caption="Disney Magic departs Port Canaveral for a 7-day Caribbean cruise. Photo by David T. Flaherty "][/caption]
It is being reported today that the crew of the Disney Magic rescued 18 Algerians stranded at sea in the early morning hours last Friday.
While sailing from Gibraltar to Barcelona, the crew of the 2400 passenger vessel heard radio communications between two other ships engaged in the search. The Disney Magic joined t
It is being reported today that the crew of the Disney Magic rescued 18 Algerians stranded at sea in the early morning hours last Friday.
While sailing from Gibraltar to Barcelona, the crew of the 2400 passenger vessel heard radio communications between two other ships engaged in the search. The Disney Magic joined t
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Viking Enters the Southeast Asia Market
[caption id="attachment_382" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="RV Tonle"][/caption]
Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river boat cruise company, has announced a new itinerary along the Mekong River for 2011. While this does not entail the introduction of a new vessel on the river, it does mark the entry of the major supplier into the region.
Viking will partner with Pandaw River Cruises, chartering their ship RV Tonle for the season. This partnership will bring Viking's e
Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river boat cruise company, has announced a new itinerary along the Mekong River for 2011. While this does not entail the introduction of a new vessel on the river, it does mark the entry of the major supplier into the region.
Viking will partner with Pandaw River Cruises, chartering their ship RV Tonle for the season. This partnership will bring Viking's e
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Queen Victoria On Sale
[caption id="attachment_373" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Queen Victoria on Sale"][/caption]
If you have given any thought to sailing on Cunard's Queen Victoria in 2011, now is the time to consider booking that trip. Today marks the first day of Cunard Lines' three day sale of Queen Victoria's 2011 debut sailings in the Americas. The sale ends August 6, 2011.
Book one of these voyages during this limited three day window and enjoy the following benefits:
1. Savings of
If you have given any thought to sailing on Cunard's Queen Victoria in 2011, now is the time to consider booking that trip. Today marks the first day of Cunard Lines' three day sale of Queen Victoria's 2011 debut sailings in the Americas. The sale ends August 6, 2011.
Book one of these voyages during this limited three day window and enjoy the following benefits:
1. Savings of
Saturday, July 31, 2010
May I Take Your Order?
It is being reported in USA Today that Cunard Line is considering the introduction of a la carte, by the plate pricing for one of the dining venues on Queen Elizabeth, scheduled to make her debut in Southampton on October 11, 2010.
The Veranda, a much-loved restaurant on the original Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, will be the top of the line dining room on the new ship. It replaces the Todd English Restaurant, which currently fills that position on both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.
The Veranda, a much-loved restaurant on the original Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, will be the top of the line dining room on the new ship. It replaces the Todd English Restaurant, which currently fills that position on both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Love Wine? Love Cruising? Love This
AMA Waterways has announced a unique variation of its popular Fall river boat cruise between Amsterdam and Paris. Designated the "Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel" cruise, it is aimed in particular at wine enthusiasts.
From their press release: "Europe’s Rhine and Mosel rivers are famous for their bucolic scenery, historic destinations and hillside vineyards. This fall, AMA Waterways showcases this spectacular region with a unique wine-themed cruise on the luxurious MS Amalegro. Depar
From their press release: "Europe’s Rhine and Mosel rivers are famous for their bucolic scenery, historic destinations and hillside vineyards. This fall, AMA Waterways showcases this spectacular region with a unique wine-themed cruise on the luxurious MS Amalegro. Depar
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Azamara's Hot Offers for Cool Times
Azamara Club Cruises, which bills itself as "a destination-immersive cruise
[caption id="attachment_360" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Azamara Journey"][/caption]
line for up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them", has announced a sale on winter voyages. Bookings must be made by August 31, 2010.
Azamara Journey
For voyages departing between November 29, 2010 and February 27, 2011, on Journey's winter voyages in the
[caption id="attachment_360" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Azamara Journey"][/caption]
line for up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them", has announced a sale on winter voyages. Bookings must be made by August 31, 2010.
Azamara Journey
For voyages departing between November 29, 2010 and February 27, 2011, on Journey's winter voyages in the
Monday, July 26, 2010
River Boat Cruises in Russia and the Ukraine
There are two main options for river boat cruises in Russia and the Ukraine, sailing along the Volga and Svir rivers in Russia and the Dneiper River in the Ukraine.
The cruise between Moscow and the incomparable St. Petersburg, Peter the Great's "Window on the West", is the classic river boat cruise in Russia. This cruise, bookended as it were by Russia's two principal cities, typically visits two of the Golden Ring cities, Uglich and Yaroslavl (founded in 1010). Other stops, at smaller and quainter villages, provide a first-hand glimpse of typical Russian village life.
Enroute, the cruise traverses the two largest lakes in Europe, Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega. Cruising on Lake Onega provides the opportunity for the ship to visit the island village of Kizhi, site of the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of this visit is Preobranzhanskaya Church, the Church of the Transfiguration, a three-tiered wooden structure built in 1714 without a single nail.
The major river boat cruise companies on this route include three day visits to both Moscow and St. Petersburg, giving guests ample opportunity to explore the important sites in each city. Shore excursions are included in the package and the ship serves as the guests' hotel.
A cruise along the Dneiper River in the Ukraine is the second option in this region. Sailing between Odessa and Kiev, the cruise includes some time on the Black Sea as well. Surprising Sevastopol, home of the Russian Black Sea fleet, is also the jumping off point for a visit to two important historical sites. One is the archaeological site of Chersonese, a Greek city founded in the 6th century BC. The other is the Tatar city of Bakhchisarei, capital of the Crimean Khanate, site of the Khan's residence, and cultural and political center for the Crimean Tatars. It was in Sevastopol that the light brigade made its fateful charge, memorialized in verse by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
Additional stops on this river boat cruise include Yalta, where pasasengers visit the White Palace, a former imperial residence and site of the 1945 Yalta Conference of Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill; Zaporozhye, ancestral home of the Cossacks; and Kiev, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Sophia Cathedral.
River boat quality in Russia can be fairly questionable, and care needs to be taken in choosing the boat to book. Focusing consideration on several major lines is well-advised. AMA Waterways has one ship on the Volga, the totally gutted and rebuilt Amakaterina, sailing in 2011. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has a single ship as well on the Volga, the River Victoria. Viking River Cruises, the major operator here, has four ships on the Volga and one on the Dneiper.
The cruise between Moscow and the incomparable St. Petersburg, Peter the Great's "Window on the West", is the classic river boat cruise in Russia. This cruise, bookended as it were by Russia's two principal cities, typically visits two of the Golden Ring cities, Uglich and Yaroslavl (founded in 1010). Other stops, at smaller and quainter villages, provide a first-hand glimpse of typical Russian village life.
Enroute, the cruise traverses the two largest lakes in Europe, Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega. Cruising on Lake Onega provides the opportunity for the ship to visit the island village of Kizhi, site of the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of this visit is Preobranzhanskaya Church, the Church of the Transfiguration, a three-tiered wooden structure built in 1714 without a single nail.
The major river boat cruise companies on this route include three day visits to both Moscow and St. Petersburg, giving guests ample opportunity to explore the important sites in each city. Shore excursions are included in the package and the ship serves as the guests' hotel.
A cruise along the Dneiper River in the Ukraine is the second option in this region. Sailing between Odessa and Kiev, the cruise includes some time on the Black Sea as well. Surprising Sevastopol, home of the Russian Black Sea fleet, is also the jumping off point for a visit to two important historical sites. One is the archaeological site of Chersonese, a Greek city founded in the 6th century BC. The other is the Tatar city of Bakhchisarei, capital of the Crimean Khanate, site of the Khan's residence, and cultural and political center for the Crimean Tatars. It was in Sevastopol that the light brigade made its fateful charge, memorialized in verse by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
Additional stops on this river boat cruise include Yalta, where pasasengers visit the White Palace, a former imperial residence and site of the 1945 Yalta Conference of Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill; Zaporozhye, ancestral home of the Cossacks; and Kiev, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Sophia Cathedral.
River boat quality in Russia can be fairly questionable, and care needs to be taken in choosing the boat to book. Focusing consideration on several major lines is well-advised. AMA Waterways has one ship on the Volga, the totally gutted and rebuilt Amakaterina, sailing in 2011. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has a single ship as well on the Volga, the River Victoria. Viking River Cruises, the major operator here, has four ships on the Volga and one on the Dneiper.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
The Future Looks Brighter
There is news this week that makes the future of two grande dames of the sea more hopeful.
It is being reported that Queen Elizabeth 2, currently languishing in Dubai, a sad testimony to the over-spending there, may be going to the western Australian port of Fremantle. The mayor of Fremantle has expressed the belief that he would have strong support from his constituency to bring QE2 there in time to be used as a floating hotel for the ISAF Sailing World Championships in December 2011.
O
It is being reported that Queen Elizabeth 2, currently languishing in Dubai, a sad testimony to the over-spending there, may be going to the western Australian port of Fremantle. The mayor of Fremantle has expressed the belief that he would have strong support from his constituency to bring QE2 there in time to be used as a floating hotel for the ISAF Sailing World Championships in December 2011.
O
Monday, July 12, 2010
Carnival Cruises Announces New Sale
Carnival Cruise Line published details of their new sale in a press release today:
Press Release Source: Carnival Cruise Lines On Monday July 12, 2010, 11:07 am EDT
[caption id="attachment_345" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Carnival Dream"][/caption]
" Carnival Cruise Lines is hosting its first-ever "1-2-3 Go! Sale" which combines three of the line's most popular sales incentives – Cash Back of up to $160 per stateroom, best available upgrades and attractive "Fun Select" rate
Press Release Source: Carnival Cruise Lines On Monday July 12, 2010, 11:07 am EDT
[caption id="attachment_345" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Carnival Dream"][/caption]
" Carnival Cruise Lines is hosting its first-ever "1-2-3 Go! Sale" which combines three of the line's most popular sales incentives – Cash Back of up to $160 per stateroom, best available upgrades and attractive "Fun Select" rate
Saturday, July 10, 2010
What's Your rush? Stay a While Longer
[caption id="attachment_340" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Brilliance of the Seas"][/caption]
After a successful test run on board Splendour of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas in the summer of 2009, Royal Caribbean has decided to extend their late departure program to all their ships sailing in Europe. For a fee of $35 for adults and $17.50 for children 3 to 17 (free for children under 3) departing guests may stay on board their ship until 90 minutes before the next sailing.
After a successful test run on board Splendour of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas in the summer of 2009, Royal Caribbean has decided to extend their late departure program to all their ships sailing in Europe. For a fee of $35 for adults and $17.50 for children 3 to 17 (free for children under 3) departing guests may stay on board their ship until 90 minutes before the next sailing.
Friday, July 9, 2010
International Expeditions Waives Single Supplement Fee on Select 2011 Galapagos Vacations
In another welcome announcement for single travelers, solo travelers will save $1,250 on select International Expeditions cruises to the Galapagos Islands. The company distributed a press release today with details of the promotion.
[caption id="attachment_335" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="M/V Evolution"][/caption]
"International Expeditions is waiving the single supplement fee on its January 7, May 27 and September 30, 2011 Galapagos Islands cruises. On the 10-day Galapagos
[caption id="attachment_335" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="M/V Evolution"][/caption]
"International Expeditions is waiving the single supplement fee on its January 7, May 27 and September 30, 2011 Galapagos Islands cruises. On the 10-day Galapagos
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
And The Good News For Singles Continues
Uniworld River Cruises adds its overture to singles, joining Azamara Club Cruises and Silversea Cruises in greatly reducing or eliminating single supplements on select sailings. Unfortunately, you need to act very quickly, as Uniworld's offer is valid only until June 30th.
"Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced it will waive its single supplement charge on a selection of popular 2010 European river cruises allowing solo travellers to cruise at no additional charge.
John Molinaro,
"Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced it will waive its single supplement charge on a selection of popular 2010 European river cruises allowing solo travellers to cruise at no additional charge.
John Molinaro,
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