(PRESS RELEASE)_Geneva, Switzerland (August 16, 2021) - MSC Cruises today commemorated being back at sea for twelve months following the global industry’s shutdown in March 2020 as a result of the global pandemic. One year ago, MSC Cruises on this day became the first major cruise brand to resume operations for international sailings when MSC Grandiosa departed Genoa for a seven-night voyage in the West Mediterranean. This re-start was down to a range of local, regional and national authorities in Europe sanctioning a Health and Safety protocol that MSC Cruises had developed with an external panel of medical and public health experts designed for the wellbeing of guests, crew and communities that the Company’s ships would call. A protocol that, eventually, set the standard for the industry and paved the way for more lines to restart. Twelve months on and more than half of the line’s fleet is safely back at sea – sailing around the UK, both the Mediterranean Sea and Baltic Sea in Europe, North America and the Caribbean and the Red Sea in the Middle East. More ships are scheduled to resume operations in the coming weeks and months as part of the line’s phased plan for returning the full fleet to operations by next year. Remarkably, MSC Cruises has forged ahead with its determined ambition for sustainable growth as it simultaneously returned ships to water. For the line, the past twelve months were a very busy year of return to service but it retained an undiminished laser-focus on the long-term future of the business and in a sustainable manner. Below are some highlights from the past year at MSC Cruises. (PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI, August 16, 2021– Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has unveiled its new 2023-2024 Voyage Collection, featuring exciting new ports of call and immersive cultural experiences in iconic destinations throughout the globe, with reservations opening on August 18, 2021. Crafted to create memories and stories that last a lifetime, The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™ will sail an incredible 139 new voyages, with itineraries across Africa and Arabia, Alaska, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, Canada and New England, the Caribbean and Panama Canal, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and South America, as well as transoceanic crossings, and four mesmerizing Grand Voyages to explore. Enjoying exquisite comfort and care onboard, with every imaginable luxury included, guests sailing with Regent on one of its exclusive Voyage Collection journeys will enjoy a truly unrivaled experience. Sailings range from 7 nights up to the recently announced 132-night 2024 World Cruise and feature more than 129 overnight calls in unforgettable destinations such as St. Petersburg, Russia; Kyoto, Japan; Singapore; Lisbon, Portugal; and Bordeaux, France. The 2023-2024 Voyage Collection also boasts 15 new ports of call, including Vanuatu’s Mystery Island, the majestic island of Syros in Greece, the captivating and untamed Lofoten Islands in Norway, and the charmingly colorful Puerto Banus in Spain. Four inspiring Grand Voyages have been thoughtfully curated for the line’s most discerning guests: Grand Arctic Adventure, a 78-night sailing from New York to Barcelona; Grand European Sojourn, a 62-night journey from Stockholm, Sweden to Athens, Greece; Circle South America, a 67-night round trip commencing in Miami, Florida; and the Grand Asia-Pacific Journey, a breathtaking 59-night sailing from Sydney, Australia to Tokyo, Japan. (PRESS RELEASE)_SEATTLE, WA, August 16, 2021 – U.S. headquartered small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has renewed and strengthened its relationship as the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to celebrate, support, and elevate the people behind America’s food culture and champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability, aligning with the small ship cruise line’s commitment to fresh and local epicurean experiences around the world. Windstar Cruises and the James Beard Foundation have partnered in some capacity for the past five years. The new partnership extends until 2025 and includes three themed cruises per year hosted by a James Beard Foundation-affiliated chef beginning in 2022 (dates and chefs to be announced soon). The themed cruises will include chef demonstrations, as well as a hosted four-course dinner. Each of the themed cruise chefs will provide recipes for the sailing, which will also be featured on Windstar’s menus across the fleet and sailing regions. The partnership includes a variety of events and cross-marketing promotions, plus sponsorship status for the James Beard Awards in 2021. “The long-term partnership is a result of past successes of the unique travel-culinary program, which hand-picks acclaimed culinary experts to share their knowledge of cuisines of the world with travelers, and showcases exclusive recipes on sailings across Windstar’s fleet of six elegant yachts,” further explains Windstar President Christopher Prelog. “After so much time eating in our homes, we’re excited to travel and taste the best the world has to offer again. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Windstar allowing us to pair James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs with sailings to some of the world’s most delectable destinations,” says Kris Moon, President and COO of James Beard Foundation. Windstar Cruises is returning to operations in a phased manner, requiring vaccinated guests + crew among a host of health and safety precautions. Four of the line’s six yacht fleet are now back in the water cruising. For more details on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com. (PRESS RELEASE)_CALABASAS, CA – (August 16, 2021) – AmaWaterways, the innovative river cruise line that earlier this year introduced the longest-ever river cruise itinerary, Seven River Journey Through Europe, has launched a third Seven River Journey for Autumn 2023.Taking guests through 14 distinctive countries over 47 days, the Autumn sailing will take place during many regions’ wine harvest and colorful fall foliage. Based on the overwhelming popularity of the Spring and Summer Editions, AmaWaterways is providing yet another opportunity for guests to experience an unforgettable extended vacation during the spectacular fall foliage period in Europe. Embarking August 24, 2023 from Paris, France and returning October 9, 2023 to Giurgiu, Romania, guests can relax and experience the best that Europe has to offer leaving all the details to AmaWaterways. Cruise fares start at $26,999 per guest*. “Our Seven River Journeys have generated such an amazing response from our guests, and we are delighted to offer yet another opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the beautiful regions of Europe during one of my favorite times of year, the delightful autumn season,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “From exploring fairytale castles and storybook villages enveloped in brilliant fall colors to enjoying seasonal wines and the autumn apple harvest, Seven River Journey – Autumn Edition takes place during the perfect time of year for guests to spend extended time in some of Europe’s most-sought after destinations.” Related: Harmony of the Seas Review (PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI, Aug. 16, 2021 – Harmony of the Seas set sail from its new summer home in Barcelona, Spain yesterday, marking Royal Caribbean International’s harmonious return to Western Europe. Joining Jewel and Anthem of the Seas in getting back to delivering the memorable Europe vacations families have missed, Harmony rings in the next milestone in the cruise line’s global return to sailing. Vacationers can book their next vacation on board Harmony here. The Oasis Class ship – Royal Caribbean’s largest class of ship – embarked with guests on the first of a series of 7-night breathtaking cruises around the Western Mediterranean. Exploring Europe has never come with so many opportunities for excitement, culture and relaxation than with Harmony. From August to October, the innovative ship will whisk away families to the scenic Spanish isle of Palma De Mallorca, Spain before sailing to Italy, where they can explore art and culture in Florence, visit world-renowned landmarks in Rome and experience the beauty of Naples with its iconic skyline defined by the towering Mount Vesuvius. Guests can also choose to begin their vacation in Italy and sail roundtrip from Rome. Ben Bouldin, vice president for EMEA, Royal Caribbean International commented “We are delighted to welcome back another ship to our European lineup this summer with the return of the award-winning Harmony of the Seas. Harmony is an incredibly popular ship and one of the most revolutionary in our fleet, so families are in for a summer of adventure.” On Harmony, vacationers have a bold and unexpected lineup of thrilling experiences found nowhere else on land or at sea. Harmony combines the distinct seven-neighborhood concept for which the revolutionary Oasis Class is known, featuring a varied lineup of restaurants serving up a world of flavors, adrenaline-fueled activities, the latest technology and unparalleled original entertainment across stage, water, ice and air. Highlights include a 10-story plunge down the tallest slide at sea, the Ultimate Abyss; the high-flying zip line nine decks above the Boardwalk neighborhood; the signature FlowRider surf simulators; more than 20,000 real plants at the Central Park neighborhood; as well as deck-defying high diving, aerialists and more at the AquaTheater. (PRESS RELEASE)_Miami, FL, August 12, 2021 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, revealed the restaurants and dining experiences aboard its newest ship, Vista, due to debut in early 2023. “Vista will present a fresh perspective on the finest cuisine at sea with an astounding array of dining options that range from informal to the extravagant,” stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises. Vista will offer a total of twelve culinary venues which is unprecedented for a ship of its size. Of the twelve, four are brand new and exclusive to Vista. “We have never been content to rest on our laurels, so even the expected has become the unexpected. A dramatic re-inspiration of every dining space from décor to table setting to menu offerings has resulted in a new pinnacle of diversity and creativity for our guests to enjoy,” added Binder. Ember is the signature addition to Oceania Cruises’ family of restaurants. Open for lunch and dinner, Ember is the ideal place to warm your culinary soul. Featuring a menu of inventive American creations blended with time-honored classics, this inviting dining spot will instantly charm you with its alluring ambiance and tantalizing menu. Whether you are looking forward to a leisurely evening of dining or a quick dinner before catching the headline show, Ember is where you want to be. Braised Short Ribs on Polenta, Grilled Swordfish with Asparagus, Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli, and a Cobb Salad with Smoked Chicken are just a few of the delights designed to tempt the palate. Aquamar Kitchen presents a decidedly fresh perspective on dining and the pursuit of wellness. Whether you are a dedicated flexitarian or a die-hard foodie, Aquamar Kitchen offers an abundance of indulgence with none of the guilt. Breakfast selections include cold-pressed raw juices and super-food smoothies, hearty homemade granolas and avocado toasts, organic power bowls, and savory breakfast wraps. For lunch, dozens of tempting, healthy dishes are offered such as Slow-Roasted Organic Salmon with quinoa tabouleh and lemon tahini, Yellowfin Tacos with white cabbage slaw, or even a Crunchy Chicken Sandwich on a freshly baked whole grain bun The Grand Dining Room is the luxurious grand dame of Oceania Cruises’ culinary world. Here, guests will savor a leisurely dining experience in a truly magnificent and inspired room whose ambiance soars to equally lofty heights as the cuisine. This signature dining experience has always offered a bevy of delicious Continental dishes, and now a fresh and new array of options brings even more exciting possibilities. Every day presents a realm of choices from signature Jacques Pépin classics to an incredible spectrum of global flavors and an all-new Executive Chef’s Tasting Menu. Menus change daily with an expansive choice of at least 10 appetizers, soups and salads and 10 dinner entrées, along with healthy options such as Aquamar Vitality Cuisine. (PRESS RELEASE)_MIAMI, FL – August 11, 2021 –Crystal River Cruises’ 2022 River Atlas is now available for download and can also be found in the Order a Brochure section at crystalcruises.com. The comprehensive 184-page digital guide details the award-winning line’s 2022 season of all-inclusive European river cruises for all-balcony Rhine Class ships Crystal Bach, Crystal Debussy, Crystal Mahler, and Crystal Ravel, as well as Crystal Mozart, the “Queen of the Danube.” This all-encompassing guide details day-by-day itineraries for destination-rich river cruises on the Danube, Rhine, Moselle and Main, with insightful port descriptions, maps and stunning photography to make each voyage come alive. A two-page spread lays out a value comparison detailing the differences between luxury-leader Crystal and premium and contemporary river cruise lines, specifically highlighting Crystal’s 2:3 crew-to-guest service ratio, intimate atmosphere, numerous tables for two in the open-seating dining venues, all suites featuring king-sized beds and personal European butler service. The Rhine Class ships accommodate an exclusive complement of just 106 guests and the even larger Crystal Mozart accommodates just 120 guests making her the most spacious river ship featuring the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the industry. Photospreads showcase the ships’ stylish public rooms and suites, unparalleled all-inclusive amenities, and hallmarks of the Crystal River Cruises experience including locally sourced Michelin-level cuisine, multiple dining venues, 24-hour in-suite dining, unlimited fine wines, champagnes, premium spirits and beers, and more. Also detailed is the line’s expansive selection of curated inclusive and optional shoreside Destination Discoveries, Signature Events on select voyages, and optional pre- and post-cruise Extended Land Programs including one in Reims, France, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, that features sightseeing, tastings and transfer between Paris and Reims. Highlights of Crystal River Cruises’ 2022 deployment include:
Guests booking 2022 Crystal River Cruises voyages can take advantage of all-inclusive 2-for-1 fares, Book Now Savings, Best Available Suites and more. For more information, download the new Crystal River Cruises 2022 Atlas or explore the detailed 2022 river itineraries at crystalcruises.com. (PRESS RELEASE)_VALENCIA, Calif., Aug. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The final touches are being made to Cunard's Queen Elizabeth as the luxury cruise line prepares to return to sailing on Friday, August 13th after a 17 month break. "I think I speak for the entire team at Cunard when I say how delighted we are to be returning to what we do best as we get ready to welcome our guests back on board," said Cunard President Simon Palethorpe. "We know how much our guests have been looking forward to our first voyage and we hope that they fully immerse themselves in the Cunard on board experience, as they enjoy some of the most stunning coastlines Britain has to offer," Palethorpe added. Following a series of other UK voyages, Cunard's international sailings on board Queen Elizabeth will begin in October with a cruise from Southampton to Amsterdam followed by a 14 night voyage to the Canary Islands and Madeira this November. To learn more about Cunard, contact your Travel Advisor, call 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com. (PRESS RELEASE)_SEATTLE, WA, August 10, 2021 – Windstar Cruises today announces the sale of its new 79-day Grand European Bucket List Adventure – the longest itinerary ever offered by the award-winning small ship cruise line – along with new cruise adventures scheduled through 2023. The itineraries have been released online and in a new Voyage Collection brochure. The Grand European cruise departs Stockholm, Sweden on July 25, 2023 and takes guests on a brand-new voyage spanning 22 countries through the Baltic, Northern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Black Sea. With 71 days in port (and only 8 at sea), the itinerary has just the right amount of rest and relaxation onboard between new discoveries and explorations. There are also 11 overnights in port, giving guests a chance to dine/sample the nightlife in destinations like Bordeaux, Seville, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. With an intense exploration of Germany (a new Windstar offering), there are two first-time Windstar ports in Hamburg and Binz, in addition to a new Norwegian port: Arendal. The cruise finishes on October 12 in Istanbul, Turkey and takes place aboard Windstar’s new all-suite Star Legend yacht, carrying only 312 guests. The yacht is small enough to navigate through the tight Kiel and Corinth Canals on this special sailing. The epic route along with other grand sailings like Windstar’s 60-day Grand South Pacific and 56-day Grand Caribbean Adventure are part of a growing trend of extravagant voyages and world cruises created to satiate a travel-starved cruise audience ready to book a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Windstar has been seeing a record-breaking number of reservations for their crowd-free cruises and expects immediate sales of the newly announced itineraries, now listed online and in the print brochure. “We're attributing our bookings to a pent-up demand for travel after most of the world has been sequestered for a year,” says Windstar’s President Christopher Prelog. “It's creating a swift recovery for us, so much so that my advice is to book early as increased demand is real.” The cruises in the 2021-2023 voyage collection span the globe and include new regions like Australia and New Zealand (from remote islands to the Great Barrier Reef); rural Black Sea villages and all the wonders of Turkey, from Istanbul to Cappadocia; as well as the Holy Lands. There are also additional Cruise Tours, with new land-and-cruise options affording a chance to venture into Petra at dawn as the sun illuminates the pink sandstone walls; sample fine port amid the terraced vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley; tour Italy’s beautiful Lake Como and the historic village of Bellagio by private boat; or marvel at Iceland’s geysers and waterfalls. The brochure also outlines and details the differences among Windstar’s six-yacht fleet – explaining the romance of the three classic Wind Class sailing yachts as well as the newly transformed all-suite Star Plus Class yachts. The brochure will begin to land in mailboxes this week, and those interested in requesting a copy or viewing a digital version can access the tools here: https://www.windstarcruises.com/request-a-brochure/. New itineraries and other details can be found at www.windstarcruises.com. (PRESS RELEASE)_Hurtigruten Expeditions, the world’s leading expedition cruise line, is responding to guest demand for more warm water destinations by adding the West Coast of Africa and its unique archipelagos – the Bissagos Islands and Cape Verde – to its ever-growing list of new destinations. The 13-day itinerary includes four countries: Cape Verde, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal, with MS Spitsbergen based out of Dakar, one of Africa’s most bustling cities. The expansion follows the cruise line’s recent launch announcement of year-round expedition cruises to the Galapagos Islands starting early 2022. Besides its first-ever African expedition cruises, Hurtigruten will also introduce a series of itineraries to the Canary Islands and Madeira for the 22/23 seasons. “2022 will be one of the most adventurous years for Hurtigruten Expeditions. We will start the year by launching our Galapagos operations in January, and at the end of the year, we will introduce our first African cruises. We are very excited about expanding to new unique destinations, which complements our Caribbean and South American expedition cruises and strengthens our global position,” said Hurtigruten Expeditions CEO Asta Lassesen. |
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