(PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI (Feb. 14, 2020) – Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, today unveils the all-new Norwegian Spirit following an over $100 million renovation as part of The Norwegian Edge® program, which reaffirms the Company’s commitment to elevating the standard of excellence across the fleet.
Norwegian Spirit emerged from a 43-day dry dock in Marseille, France to arrive to Civitavecchia, Italy, boasting 14 new venues, additional and updated staterooms, enhanced public areas and new hull art. She will set sail on a series of immersive 17, 20 and 28-day exotic expeditions spanning three continents, departing from Civitavecchia, Italy on Feb. 14, 2020; Dubai, United Arab Emirates on March 2, 2020; and Cape Town, South Africa on March 22, 2020, before homeporting in Athens (Piraeus), Greece for the first time on April 19, 2020. She will offer a season of seven-day voyages to the Greek Isles, Turkey, and Israel through Nov. 8, 2020. Open for sale on Feb. 15, 2020, the new destination-rich itineraries, many which boast extended port times, will explore seven or eight ports in seven days, calling to sought-after destinations including Rhodes, Mykonos; Santorini and Corfu, Greece; Kusadasi and Istanbul, Turkey; Ashdod and Haifa, Israel; Limassol, Cyprus as well as two new ports of call for the brand, Patmos and Volos, Greece. As the most extensive bow-to-stern revitalization of any ship in the Company’s history, Norwegian Spirit’s enhancements include a doubled-in-size Mandara Spa, complete with a new thermal suite and relaxation area; an expanded Pulse Fitness Center; and the second Onda by Scarpetta restaurant at sea. New complimentary dining venues include an additional main dining room, Taste; the 24-hour eatery, The Local Bar and Grill; the all-day dining outlet, Garden Café; the Great Outdoors Bar; and Waves Pool Bar. Making their debut are Bliss Ultra Lounge and Spinnaker Lounge, which features the Humidor Cigar Lounge, as well as the adults-only retreat Spice H2O, a daytime lounge featuring two new hot tubs and a dedicated bar, which transforms into an after-hours entertainment venue. Norwegian Spirit will emerge from dry dock single-use plastic beverage bottle free as part of a significant effort towards providing guests with more sustainable options at sea. As of Jan. 1, 2020, Norwegian Cruise Line is the first major cruise line to eliminate single-use plastic beverage bottles across its entire fleet, an effort made possible through a recent partnership with JUST Goods, Inc. “It is truly exciting to celebrate Norwegian Spirit’s sail out of dry dock to incredible destinations following her significant renovation,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Europe is the number one destination for international arrivals, and we are very proud to position Norwegian Spirit for her first post-dry-dock season in this high-demand region. Our brand has been recognized 12 times in a row by the World Travel Awards as ‘Europe’s Leading Cruise Line’ and we are thrilled to offer our guests even more great itineraries in the region, allowing them to explore multiple destinations while unpacking only once.” The revitalized Norwegian Spirit further strengthens the Company’s presence in Europe, where the cruise line will position a total of seven ships in 2020: Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Star, Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Jade. For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line ships and their itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. (PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI, Feb. 13, 2020 – Royal Caribbean International and the government of Antigua and Barbuda, along with the assistance of the Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda, have signed an agreement for the company’s first Royal Beach Club. The agreement marks the start of the planning and development for the Royal Beach Club scheduled to break ground later this year. Created exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests, the Royal Beach Club at Antigua will sit along more than a half-mile of pristine beachfront and combine the island’s striking beaches with the cruise line’s signature service and amenities. The ultimate beach club experience will offer guests exceptional views from private cabanas and a stunning pool with a swim-up bar, complemented by locally inspired experiences. Featuring regional fare, island-style BBQs, live music, along with thrills such as jet skis, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and a family splash pad, the beach club will make for an unforgettable day at the beach. “The Royal Beach Club will deliver a memorable beach day to our guests,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Together with the government of Antigua and Barbuda, we will bring to life an experience that will bring more visitors to these idyllic islands and create significant economic benefits and opportunities. In addition, we are looking at ways for the local community to also enjoy the beach club on days our ships are in other destinations.” The cruise line has also committed to bringing Symphony of the Seas to the island nation with a call on Nov. 3, 2020. Docking at a new port at the capital of St. John’s, Symphony will be the first Oasis Class ship to visit the island. While visiting St. John’s, guests on board Symphony will have the opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the island, delectable delicacies and some of the world’s best beaches. The Honorable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Economic Development and Investments, Government of Antigua and Barbuda, said: “The government of Antigua and Barbuda is truly grateful and appreciative that Royal Caribbean’s first Royal Beach Club will be in Antigua, which confirms confidence in our twin island state. We are also excited to share our beautiful island with guests sailing aboard Royal Caribbean ships when they begin calling to the island later this year.” (PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI, February 13, 2020 – Now through March 4, 2020, luxury travelers have an even greater selection of 2020 voyages that can be booked for as little as $100 or $200 down, depending on the sail date. Crystal Cruises has announced new fall/winter sailings added to its Reduced Deposit promotion, many of which also offer dedicated 30th Anniversary Collection savings and perks, and all of which are combinable with Crystal’s Book Now Savings, also expiring March 4. Exploring the Middle East, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, the newly added Reduced Deposit voyages include: Crystal Serenity
Crystal Symphony
Join us on the Crystal Serenity "Haute Caribbean Holidays" cruise, stopping at six different ports in the Caribbean. Start your voyage HERE.
(PRESS RELEASE)_SAINT-NAZAIRE, FRANCE – February 11, 2020 – Celebrity Apex returned to the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, over the weekend following a very successful first sea trial. As anticipated, the Celebrity Cruises ship followed in the footsteps of its Edge Series sister ship, the award-winning Celebrity Edge, far surpassing performance expectations. The trial, conducted between February 4 – 8, 2020, in the Bay of Biscay near the shipyard, was overseen by more than 50 crew members, including engineers and nautical experts. Despite the optimal trial conditions, including strong winds and waves, the second-in-series ship showcased a superior level of comfort and fuel efficiency thanks to the revolutionary design of the Parabolic Ultrabow. “The purpose of a sea trial is to test the functionality of the ship, but this wasn’t just any sea trial – and Celebrity Apex isn’t just any ship,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “In typical Edge Series-fashion, the ship absolutely exceeded our expectations, performing perfectly in line with our above-and-beyond operating standards.” “It was an absolute honor to stand at the helm of Celebrity Apex for her highly successful first sea trial,” said Celebrity Apex Captain Dimitris Kafetzis. “Celebrity Apex is truly a beautiful and highly advanced vessel.” Celebrity Apex encores the transformational look and feel of the line’s first Edge Series ship, Celebrity Edge, with such distinctive features as the floating Magic Carpet cantilevered off the ship's side inviting guests to eat, drink and soar up to 16 decks above the sea; the all-exclusive experience for all suite guests in The Retreat; dramatically expanded staterooms with Infinite Verandas; soothing indoor and outdoor garden escapes; magnificent two-story Edge Villas with their own private terrace and plunge pool; and high-style spaces throughout public areas, keeping focus on the contemporary design elements that are a highlight of the Edge Series of ships. It then adds new culinary, spa and wellness, and entertainment features and experiences guaranteed to make Celebrity Apex the industry’s “it” ship. Celebrity Apex will also debut new, all-inclusive amenities and pre-cruise concierge services in The Retreat for all suite guests. Celebrity Apex will begin its inaugural season on April 1, 2020, with a mini-season of five sailings to Northern Europe destinations and then spend the summer sailing seven-to-12-night itineraries in the Mediterranean. In November, Celebrity Apex will reposition to Fort Lauderdale for a winter season of week-long Caribbean sailings. For more details on Celebrity Apex offerings and destinations, visit www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-ships/celebrity-apex. For more information on all Celebrity Cruises offerings, call 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com, or speak with a travel advisor. (PRESS RELEASE)_NEW ALBANY, IN, Feb. 11, 2020 – Victory Cruise Lines (VCL), operated by American Queen Steamboat Company, a Hornblower® Families Company, is excited to announce the inaugural itineraries for the 2021 season on board the 200-passenger Ocean Victory. Currently under construction, Victory Cruise Lines’ third vessel invites guests to explore the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of Alaska and British Columbia on expert led excursions and small-ship, scenic cruising. To ensure that the Ocean Victory showcases the very best of expedition cruising, VCL is working with California Polytechnic State University to include marine biologists, scientists and naturalists among its expedition team of 19 who will lead excursions, provide education lectures and act as a resource for all guests. Please see below for highlights from the new Discover Beyond ™ Alaska Expedition Adventure Cruise itineraries on Victory Cruise Lines. Northbound: Vancouver, B.C to Sitka, Alaska 12-Day Cruise: May 21; June 11; July 2, 23; August 13; September 3 From the bustling city of Vancouver to the stunning views along the British Columbia Inside Passage, guests will experience the best of this varied region. Fiordland Conservancy’s dramatic waterfalls dropping into majestic fjords, unbelievable wildlife sightings in Misty Fjords National Monument, expansive ice fields at LeConte, Sawyer and Dawes Glaciers and world-famous whale watching in Frederick Sound will leave guests in awe. In addition, the fascinating culture of the Tsmshian people, Norwegian-inspired Petersburg, Alaska and Russian influenced Sitka, Alaska all welcome travelers to learn about the area’s diverse and storied heritage. Ports of call include: a pre-cruise hotel in Vancouver, B.C.; British Columbia Inside Passage; Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet); Ketchikan/Metlakatla; Misty Fjords National Monument; Wrangell/Stikine River Wilderness; Waterfall Coast/Baraof Wilderness; Petersburg/Le Conte Glacier; Tracey Arm/Sawyer Glacier; Kake/Frederick Sound/Five Finger; and Sitka, Alaska. Fares start at $4,199 per person, plus port fees, taxes and gratuities. Southbound: Sitka, Alaska to Vancouver, B.C. 13-Day Cruise: May 31; June 21; July 12; August 2, 23; September 13 The southbound itinerary reverses the northbound itinerary, with an additional day exploring Tracey Arm, Endicott, Dawes and Sawyer Glacier and Ford’s Terror Wilderness. On all Ocean Victory sailings 20 Zodiacs and dozens of kayaks will transport guests through narrow inlets larger ships cannot access and expedition leaders have the flexibility to choose the best spots for the day’s adventure, setting the Alaska adventures on the Ocean Victory apart from competition. Ports of call include: a pre-cruise hotel in Sitka, Alaska; Kake/Frederick Sound/Five Finger; Endicott Arm/Ford’s Terror/Dawes Glacier; Tracey Arm/Sawyer Glacier; Petersburg/LeConte Glacier; Waterfall Coast/Baranof Wilderness; Misty Fjords National Monument; Ketchikan/Metlakatla; Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet); British Columbia Inside Passage and Vancouver, B.C. Fares start at $4,999 per person, plus port fees, taxes and gratuities. Hidden Coast: Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle, W.A. 12-Day Cruise: September 24 This one-time itinerary will explore the ports and sights along Vancouver Island. Keeping with VCL’s dedication to education, guests will visit the Copeland Island Marine Park and U’Mista Cultural Center, one of the longest operating First Nations’ cultural facilities in British Columbia. On the southbound leg, striking views of Cortes Island, Von Donop Inlet and Desolation Sound await, revealing the majesty of British Columbia. Ports of call include: a pre-cruise hotel in Vancouver, B.C.; Princess Royal Reach/Princess Louisa Inlet; Copeland Islands Marine Park; Alert Bay/U’Mista Cultural Center; Cortes Island/Von Donop Inlet; Desolation Sound - Redonda Islands; “Sunshine Coast” – Pender Harbour; Nanaimo; Gulf Islands/Ganges; Victoria and Seattle, W.A. Fares start at $4,199 per person, plus port fees, taxes and gratuities. The 104.4m Ocean Victory will feature 93 suites, of which, 68 will have balconies, nine with French balconies and 16 with panoramic windows. The vessel will carry a crew of 100 featuring a 2-to-1 guest to crew ratio. Onboard venues include two restaurants, in addition to an open-deck dining area, piano bar, library, gym, heated outdoor pool, spa services and jacuzzi, plus observation and lecture lounges and a dedicated expedition and adventures launching platform. Bookings for Ocean Victory Alaska cruises are now open, with early booking savings up to $1,400 per stateroom on reservations made by March 31, 2020. For more information on Victory Cruise Lines, please visit http://www.victorycruiselines.com/ovalaska. (PRESS RELEASE)_Disney Cruise Line has just embarked on an inaugural season sailing from New Orleans. This also marks the very first time that Disney Cruise Line has had a homeport in Louisiana. On the Disney Wonder’s first departure from the Crescent City on Feb. 7, 2020, the ship received a celebratory bon voyage from Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and members of the traditional New Orleans Treme Brass Band. This cruise that has just commenced kicks off a limited-engagement season sailing from New Orleans in 2020, and Disney Cruise Line will be returning to New Orleans again in early 2021. These voyages visit the Bahamas, Caribbean and include stops at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. Those in the area can experience the magic of having a Disney ship in their own backyard. For guests joining Disney Cruise Line from farther away, they can savor the excitement and flair of the Big Easy both onboard and ashore. In New Orleans, there’s magic around every corner as visitors recognize the iconic sights and sounds that inspired the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Onboard the Disney Wonder, Disney Cruise Line is “gonna take you there!” with a celebration of New Orleans dining and entertainment at Tiana’s Place restaurant and a menu that draws inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of the Louisiana bayou. At the brand new French Quarter Lounge, guests are transported deeper into the story to enjoy live jazz music, sip a New Orleans-themed specialty drink and dance the night away. Throughout the days, family activities, trivia, workshops, crafts and music bring the bayou spirit of family gatherings and fun to life. Here's Cruise News of particular interest to our North Palm Beach readers, from North Palm travel agent Andrea Szabo, owner of Andrea Solo Travel: "As some of you already know, I'm getting a group together of great individuals that live in the North Palm Beach area to go on a wonderful group cruise! I think it would be a fun way to get to know some people in the area and have a great time with some people we may already know! "After much searching and a lot of helpful insight from some neighbors in the area, I think I have found the perfect cruise to match many of our needs and wants! "This premium, four-night cruise to Key West and Nassau, Bahamas on the Celebrity Equinox, May 23-27, offers $300 on board credit (per stateroom based on double occupancy) and balcony rooms start at only $549 per person! "As a part of the group, I will organize a welcome on board cocktail gathering at one of the many premium onboard bars & lounges and other fun gatherings on the ship! For those interested, I can organize optional group excursions while at port for an additional charge of the excursion. "Also, for those of you traveling solo, let me know if you wouldn't mind sharing a room and I can try to set you up with another like-minded solo cruiser so you won't have to pay the single supplement! Call or email me to reserve your spot today!" About Andrea: My name is Andrea and I am the owner and travel specialist of Andrea Solo Travel. I have been a resident of North Palm Beach for about two years. I specialize in creating custom itineraries for solo travelers, but also can book for couples, families, groups, cruises & business organizations. I have traveled to Europe, Asia and the Caribbean by myself and have realized there aren't that many resources for solo travelers or much help planning or booking vacations, so that's when I decided to start my small business. Let me know if you have any questions! 561-541-5743 Andrea@andreasolotravel.com www.andreasolotravel.com (PRESS RELEASE)_WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – February 6, 2020 – Looking for true love, money, or a rewarding career? Wishing to connect with loved ones on the other side? The search for travelers looking to unlock their soul’s vibrations and more is about to begin with Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s first-ever psychic-themed cruise called “Deborah Graham’s Psychic Connection Cruise,” starring Deborah Graham, star of TLC’s “The Psychic Matchmaker” and SiriusXM Stars’ “Psychic Connection with Deborah Graham.” Starting at just $149 per person*, Graham’s hosted cruise takes place aboard Grand Classica April 17-19. "I’m beyond excited to officially announce my first themed cruise with the award-winning Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line,” said Graham. “Everyone who embarks on this journey with me will experience an extraordinary weekend filled with some of the most amazing and super-fun events, and I’m looking forward to helping people unlock their future, rekindle their past, and get the answers they need as we set sail to paradise!” As the star of her own TV and radio shows, Graham has more than 30 years of experience providing spiritual guidance to those seeking answers on love, family, the future, and more. She has touched thousands of lives across 130 countries around the world—serving as an intuitive relationship coach, reader, and all-around spiritualist. She is best known for her ability to accurately read clients through her energy vibrations, and now, at an unbeatable price, travelers can join Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line for a truly special sailing and experience Graham’s super-intuitive ability for themselves. In addition to the cruise line’s award-winning offerings, including spacious staterooms and nightly live entertainment, travelers will each receive a free copy of Graham’s book, “Psychic Deborah Graham’s Guide to Attracting and Keeping Your True Love,” and access to inspiring onboard events, including: · Psychic Connection Show: a free live show where cruisers can ask Graham questions on a variety of topics, including love and career, as well as connect with loved ones on the other side. · Psychic Connection Mixer: this free and interactive experience is perfect for cruisers looking to meet their soulmate, as Graham will help match guests with their twin-flame – who may just be sitting across the room! · Psychic Connection Breakfast**: during this intimate dining experience, Graham will provide mini-readings. · Private Readings: travelers who are at least 18 years or older and wish to have a private reading can reserve their spot now and save more than 60 percent, by visiting www.PsychicDeborahGraham.com/cruise. “This special event cruise is a wonderful addition to our Nassau itinerary, and we look forward to welcoming travelers aboard to experience this unique opportunity for themselves,” said Oneil Khosa, CEO of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. “Deborah is truly gifted, and we believe she will help a lot of our guests understand their pasts while appreciating the present and looking forward to an even brighter future. We’re excited to be a part of the journey!” As the only cruise line with daily departures from West Palm Beach, Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line lets travelers cruise to either Grand Bahama Island or Nassau while sailing aboard Grand Celebration or Grand Classica. Travelers embarking on the cruise line’s first-ever psychic cruise will have access to sprawling sun decks with unlimited stretches of sand and surf; al fresco dining; full-service spas; interactive kids’ programs; and the popular Par-a-Dice Casino. The ship also features unique dining venues, including The Rock Grill, an interactive experience where guests can cook their own meats and veggies on a lava rock and Admiral’s Steak & Seafood, with featured items such as Angus Beef Carpaccio and Peruvian Sea Bass. To book this special psychic-themed cruise, travelers can contact their Preferred Travel Advisor, visit www.BahamasParadiseCruise.com, or call 888-530-2775 (English) / 888-530-2776 (Español). To reserve a private reading with Deborah Graham, visit www.PsychicDeborahGraham.com/cruise. Follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. (PRESS RELEASE)_PLANTATION, Fla. — February 6, 2020 — Virgin Voyages, the new lifestyle and travel brand delivering irresistible vacations, today revealed The Band – a sleek wearable technology made from recycled ocean plastic that will unlock voyage adventures for future Sailors upon the debut of Scarlet Lady on April 1, 2020. Brought to life through a partnership with BIONIC® Yarn, a material engineering leader committed to addressing plastic pollution in marine and coastal environments, Virgin Voyages has created the travel industry’s next-level smart wearable technology that is equal parts functional and stylish. This lightweight, relaxed eco-chic accessory is nautically inspired and can be taken home by Sailors as a post-voyage keepsake. “Just like our stunning fleet of Lady Ships, and through our partnership with BIONIC, our wearable technology marries sustainability with smarts and style, which is quintessentially Virgin,” said Tom McAlpin, CEO of Virgin Voyages. “The Band will be our seamless and worry-free way for Sailors to not only unlock their cabin with ease, but to explore all of the thrills and great experiences that Scarlet Lady and the rest of our fleet will have to offer.” HIGH-TECH SAILING EXPERIENCE As part of planning for a Voyage, Sailors will receive The Band via mail prior to stepping on board their own adventure. Activating with just the tap of the wrist, The Band is a hands, wallet and worry-free way for Sailors to:
To complement The Band’s ease of navigation, The Sailor App will be available in the coming weeks for Sailors to complete the check-in process, book Shore Things and so much more. SUSTAINABLE AND SLEEK To continue Virgin Voyages’ commitment to create Epic Sea Change for All, rope material for The Band is built entirely from BIONIC® yarn and contains six grams of marine and coastal plastic, equivalent to one-half of a plastic water bottle that washes ashore. Through this partnership, both Virgin Voyages and BIONIC have also committed to further sustainability initiatives. This includes additional ocean clean-ups, and a commitment to recovering two-or-more pounds of plastic for every new Sailor joining Virgin Voyages in 2020. “Bionic’s partners have always had a deep respect for Virgin and its rich history of Industry innovation,” said Tim Coombs, Co-Founder of BIONIC. “Naturally we’re thrilled to be part of the Virgin Voyages experience and share our mission with its ocean loving passengers.” The Band is just one of many sustainability initiatives that will be featured onboard Virgin Voyages. Through a commitment to provide Sailors with both a luxurious and green experience, Virgin Voyages is banning all single-use plastic materials, using smart design to minimize electricity usage, eliminating food waste with no buffets and so much more. Future Sailors, First Mates and travel advisors are invited to check out Virgin Voyages by visiting www.virginvoyages.com or following @virginvoyages on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. |
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