Malt Shop Memories Cruise—the “Malt Shop Scoop”

When our Malt Shop Memories Cruise 2013 dining/concert seating assignment letter arrived in the mail recently we were delighted, not to mention reminded that in only six months we’ll be boarding one of our favorite ships—Holland America Line’s Eurodam—to relive our (ahem) “youth” through the artists and music of the Malt Shop era. Mel and I are Malt Shop Memories Cruise alumni and the experience just keeps getting better.

To keep us up-to-date and build excitement (as if we needed to be more excited!), our Malt Shop Memories hosts at Entertainment Cruise Productions have introduced the “Malt Shop Scoop”—a newsletter that will offer some special gifts and incentives to participants, and provide some insights about the cruise and the performers. The first newsletter included a trivia question and interview…

Which is the only '60s group to reach the national Top Ten with their first seven single releases?

A. The Beatles
B. The Supremes
C. Gary Lewis and the Playboys
D. The Beach Boys

I have to admit I got that one wrong. If you guessed Gary Lewis and the Playboys, then I want you on my trivia team! And, did you know that Gary Lewis’ father is Jerry Lewis? Yes, that Jerry Lewis!

From the “Malt Shop Scoop” interview with Gary Lewis, which you can read in full here:

That remarkable run of hits began in February 1965 when “This Diamond Ring” knocked “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” out of the top spot on Billboard magazine’s Hot 100. One might think that, like many aspiring rock ’n’ roll stars, Gary had spent years playing in bands. Yet, even though he loved the music from “Hound Dog” on, his actual climb from forming a band to chart-topping act took just one year. 

As for the upcoming 2013 Malt Shop Memories Cruise, Gary can’t wait. “We’re going to have a ball. I love hanging out. I don’t hide. If people want to talk to me, I’ll talk to everybody. It’s very important to me, because the fans put me wherever I am. I care about them; I care about what I do. I realize what a blessing this gift of music is, and I give back to the fans as much as I can.”

Although the Eurodam is already 80% sold out, there are still some cabins available, but probably not for long—Malt Shop Memories Cruise ’12 sold out and the pace of sales for Malt Shop Memories Cruise ’13 is even faster. Cabins remain in the Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah and Outside Cabin categories, but, if you want a different category of cabin, just call the office (888.852.9987) and they will see if you can be accommodated. There are usually cancellations and, sometimes, they can make something happen for you.

In case you’re wondering, here’s the 2013 Line Up of Performers:

• Neil Sedaka
• Four Tops
• Petula Clark
• Bobby Rydell
• Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley
• Little Anthony and The Imperials
• Lesley Gore
• Gary U.S. Bonds
• Shirley Alston Reeves, Original Lead Singer of The Shirelles
• Gary Lewis & The Playboys
• Freddy "Boom Boom" Cannon
• Jay Siegel's Tokens
• The Crystals
• Chris Montez
• The Passions
• The Eternals
• The Devotions
• The Emotions
• Jerry Blavat, Emcee Extraordinaire
• Robert Klein, Comedian

The Elvis Tribute Program with:

• Mark Anthony
• Jay Dupuis
• Dwight Icenhower
• Gino Monopoli
• Anthony Von
• Cliff Wright
• Jay Zanier
• EAS Band

More information is available on the Malt shop Memories Cruise web site. Hope to see you on board!

• Relive Malt Shop Memories Cruise ’12 with Cruise Diva: Making Memories At Sea

Image Courtesy of the Malt Shop Memories Cruise

Royal Caribbean Announces Inaugural Season Itineraries for Quantum of the Seas

As reported last month, Royal Caribbean has begun to reveal the features passengers will find on their Quantum-Class ships, beginning with Quantum of the Seas. Cruisers are sure to experience the “WOWs” that the line is known for on board, but there will be ports of call to visit as well. To end the suspense, Royal Caribbean has unveiled Quantum of the Seas’ first 18 Caribbean sailings, ranging from seven to twelve nights, with the official inaugural voyage set for Nov 23, 2014. Bookings will be available to Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program members beginning May 28, 2013 before opening to the general public on June 4.

Vacationers in the New York-metropolitan area and around the world can choose among 7- and 8-night Bahamas, 8- to 11-night Eastern Caribbean, and 11- and 12-night Southern Caribbean itineraries aboard Quantum of the Seas. The groundbreaking new ship will sail roundtrip from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, N.J. to the most popular Caribbean destinations through April 2015.

“Royal Caribbean is proud to partner with some of the Caribbean’s premier destinations for the inaugural season of Quantum of the Seas,” said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “The Quantum class of ships will combine a new set of truly exciting and first-at-sea innovations that can only be found on Royal Caribbean, with some of the most incredible destinations in the region. We can’t wait to WOW vacationers with Quantum cruising.”

On the Bahamas cruises, guests call at Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private tropical island paradise. The Eastern Caribbean cruises will include ports of call among San Juan, Puerto Rico; Samana, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas; St. Kitts; and St. Maarten. Guests on the Southern Caribbean cruises will call at San Juan, St. Maarten, Martinique, Barbados and St. Kitts. On most Caribbean sailings, Quantum of the Seas also will visit Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s very own highly-rated private beach paradise on the north coast of Haiti.

To learn more, visit Royal Caribbean International Reveals Quantum-Class Ships.

Image Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

It's Westward Ho! For The American Queen Steamboat Company

The American Queen Steamboat Company, owner and operator of the U.S-flagged paddlewheeler American Queen, announces the purchase of the Empress of the North. To be renamed the American Empress, the vessel is scheduled to resume sailings on the great rivers of the Pacific Northwest in April 2014 calling Portland, Oregon her homeport. The American Empress will deliver riverboat opulence on a grand scale, following in the pedigree of the line’s namesake American Queen, and proudly serve as the largest overnight riverboat west of the Mississippi River.

“The American Queen has ushered in a rebirth of U.S. river cruising, welcoming thousands to discover the heartland of the United States and its iconic port cities,” shares Ted Sykes, president and COO of the American Queen Steamboat Company. “Now the American Empress will continue that tradition as an ambassador to the Pacific Northwest, a region equally rich in American and natural history.”

A U.S.-flagged riverboat, the American Empress measures 360 ft. with five towering decks and accommodates 223 guests in seven stateroom categories. The American Empress will sail the Columbia River and Snake River, offering 7-day voyages between Portland, Oregon and Clarkston, Washington. Ports of call include Astoria, Washington; Stevenson, Washongton; The Dalles, Oregon; Umatilla, Oregon; and Richland, Washington.

The American Empress was built in 2002 and operated by Majestic America Line from 2002 to 2008, sailing Alaska’s Inside Passage and the Pacific Northwest. Just as the American Queen brought luxury and grandeur to river cruising America’s heartland, the American Empress will do the same for the Pacific Northwest. For additional information, visit online at AQSC.com.

Image Courtesy of The American Queen Steamboat Company

Norwegians Are "Legally Blonde"

What could be more appropriate for a ship built by Norwegians than showcasing a musical about a lovable and smart blonde who turns out to be a legal whiz? If you sailed on any of Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships in the 1990s you may have seen such Broadway favorites as 42nd Street, Will Rogers Follies, and Grease performed on board. Now, the line continues its legacy of innovating cruise ship entertainment with the announcement that the seven-time Tony Award nominated musical LEGALLY BLONDE will be featured on Norwegian Getaway, along with an additional Broadway show: the dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR, and an all-new stand-up comedy program in partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the largest producer of comedians in the world. Norwegian Getaway will feature multiple, specially-designed entertainment venues throughout the ship so that guests can choose from a wide variety of entertainment each evening of their cruise with choices to appeal to a broad audience.

“Norwegian has truly raised the bar when it comes to entertainment at sea and that is why it was extremely important to me that Norwegian Getaway feature high caliber entertainment that will continue to exceed our guest’s expectations,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “With LEGALLY BLONDE performing in the Getaway Theater, along with BURN THE FLOOR, world-class comedy by THE LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, magic in the previously announced ILLUSIONARIUM, THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE, and all of the other entertainment offerings, we continue our commitment on Norwegian Getaway to offer guests the best entertainment experience possible.”

LEGALLY BLONDE
Headlining the 787-seat Getaway Theater is the seven-time Tony Award nominated Broadway musical, LEGALLY BLONDE. Liverpool Confidential has called the show, “Kind-hearted, comical and camp, Legally Blonde–The Musical is right up there with Mamma Mia! and Hairspray.” LEGALLY BLONDE tells the story of Elle Woods who, after being dumped by her boyfriend, follows him to Harvard Law School to win him back. With the help of some new-found friends, she learns that it’s so much better to be smart. The show opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 29, 2007 and closed in 2008 after playing 595 performances. The show was also one of London’s most popular West End shows, where it played at the Savoy Theatre and won three Laurence Olivier Awards, including one for “Best New Musical.” In addition to being a bona fide Broadway hit musical, LEGALLY BLONDE is a global success and is currently touring in Australia.

BURN THE FLOOR
Offering shows in both the Getaway Theater and more intimate performances, dance sensation BURN THE FLOOR dazzles with their re-invented ballroom dancing. Beginning with, and maintaining all the wonderful traditions and the social history of the Ballroom dance art form, BURN THE FLOOR is a groundbreaking show, serving as a melting pot of styles, energy and excitement for today’s generation of dancers. It is Ballroom “supercharged.” The show premiered in London in 1999 and toured the US for the first time in 2000, including performances at Radio City Music Hall.

LEVITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP COMEDY & HOWL AT THE MOON
Headliners Comedy Club on Norwegian Getaway will feature top-tier comedians presented through the line’s new partnership with Levity Entertainment Group, the world’s largest producer of live comedy. Levity employs over 300 artists nationwide each week, creating special events, original tours, and television specials with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Daniel Tosh, Amy Shumer, Bill Cosby, Gabriel Iglesias, and Jeff Dunham, who is currently the most successful touring comedian worldwide.

The world’s greatest rock n’ roll dueling piano show, Howl at the Moon, which received rave reviews on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway, will also be featured in Headliners on board Norwegian Getaway. This total entertainment experience features talented piano players who not only entertain the audience; they make them part of the show. The fun is centered around two baby grand pianos and a full out rock show with Howl’s entertainers playing the best music from 70’s rock to hip-hop for four hours per show.

GRAMMY® EXPERIENCE & ILLUSIONARIUM
Norwegian Getaway will also be the first to have the GRAMMY® Experience at sea which will feature artifacts chosen and curated by the GRAMMY Museum® along with live performances by past GRAMMY winners and nominees, among others. The ship will also feature an all-new dining and entertainment experience, The Illusionarium. A first of its kind at sea, The Illusionarium will envelop guests in the fascinating world of magic, inviting them to experience the astonishing illusions of world-class magicians and supernatural special effects. In addition, every Norwegian Getaway sailing will feature a dazzling fireworks show in Spice H20.

NORWEGIAN GETAWAY
Currently being built at Meyer Werft in Germany, Norwegian Getaway will be 146,600 gross tons and offer a wide range of accommodations. The ship represents an opportunity for the Norwegian guest to “get away” from the routine of work, school, and daily stress, and find a true respite at sea that reflects the energy and culture that Miami is known for worldwide. To date, the company has revealed the ship’s groundbreaking design, including The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place; a wide range of indoor and outdoor venues on three dynamic decks that create a whole new complex at sea and enhances guests’ connection with the ocean. Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian will also open three dining concepts on Norwegian Getaway: Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian; Ocean Blue on the Waterfront and The Raw Bar, that were recently launched on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway’s New York -based sister ship.

The 4,000 passenger ship will also feature a rich mix of stateroom options, including The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 Suites at the top of the ship in an exclusive, private key-card enclave and 22 additional Suites located throughout the ship; the innovative Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; a wide range of Oceanview staterooms, Balcony and Mini-Suites; along with Spa Balcony, Mini-Suites and Suites in close proximity to the spa.

Norwegian Getaway will sail 7-day cruises from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean beginning on Feb 1, 2014, with ports of call including Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. Information on Norwegian Getaway’s accommodations and itinerary can be found at getaway.ncl.com.

From Rivers to the Sea: The Vikings Are Coming

Viking Star

When Viking Cruises launches its ocean product line, Viking Ocean Cruises, it will mark the introduction of the travel industry's first new cruise line in nearly a decade. Developed from the ground up to focus their cruises on the destinations, Viking Ocean Cruises will begin sailing in May 2015 with its first vessel—Viking Star—embarking on maiden voyages in Scandinavia and the Baltic and the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.

Better known for their river cruises, Viking Cruises has aggressive expansion plans in both the ocean and river cruise categories, with a second ocean ship on order for delivery in 2016 and conditional orders and options for four more additional ocean vessels. The ocean ship order follows the company's continued rapid fleet expansion in the river cruise sector, with 10 new river ships recently christened in March of this year and 12 new river ships planned to launch in 2014. Before going any further, those ambitious plans sound somewhat familiar...remember Renaissance Cruises? From 1998 to 2001, the now-defunct line introduced eight extremely popular mid-sized ships. Hopefully, the Vikings have a larger war chest. But I digress.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises, shares his vision, "It is our view that in the race to build bigger ships, many cruise lines have lost sight of the destinations to which they sail. With our new ocean cruises, we are applying the same principles behind our award-winning river cruises to our itinerary and ship design; privileged-access excursions; and onboard experiences to make destinations the true focus."

Leveraging extensive feedback and input from Viking River Cruises passengers, Viking Ocean Cruises was developed with experienced travelers in mind. Itineraries are curated for maximum time in port, often with late evenings or overnights, so guests can experience local nightlife or evening performances. Ports include both cosmopolitan cities and "collector ports," and appeal to those with an interest in history, art and culture. In addition, all-inclusive pricing provides unparalleled value—with every cruise fare including a veranda stateroom, shore excursions in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Passengers also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including: beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; wi-fi; self-service laundry, and 24-hour room service—a value of more than $2,400 per couple for an average cruise.

Viking Star

Classified as a "small ship," the new 928-passenger all-veranda Viking Star is engineered at a scale that allows direct access into most ports, so guests have easy and efficient embarkation and debarkation.

Viking Star Technical Details

Length overall: 745.4 ft.; beam 94.5 ft.; draft 20.7 ft.; air draft 131.2 ft.; gross tonnage (GRT) 47,800 t; deadweight 3,640 t; service speed 20.0 kn; number of decks 14; classification: Lloyds Register.

The ship has been designed by experienced nautical architects and engineers, including an interior design team of London-based SMC Design, and Los Angeles-based Rottet Studios. The first of two ocean ships on order, Viking Star will be built by Italy's Fincantieri shipyard. The ship's understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design is crafted for maximum guest comfort. Highlighted features include:

-- All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from a 270 sq. ft. veranda stateroom, all with private verandas, king-size beds, large showers, and LCD TVs.
-- Explorer Suites: Viking Star's 14 Explorer Suites are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,448 sq. ft. and offer sweeping views from wrap-around private verandas as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category onboard.
-- Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable dome permitting any-season swimming, Viking Star features one of the only infinity pools at sea, allowing passengers to swim surrounded by their destination in a glass-backed pool cantilevered off the stern.
-- The Spa: In keeping with Viking's Nordic heritage, The Spa onboard Viking Star is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind, from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a "snow grotto" where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air.
-- Explorers' Lounge & Wintergarden: Spaces designed to facilitate mingling and storytelling, the two-deck Explorers' Lounge at the bow of the ship is the perfect spot for taking in scenery through double-height windows over a glass of aquavit or pint of local craft beer; and the Wintergarden is a serene environment in which to relax and enjoy afternoon tea service complete with a curated tea selection.
-- Dining Choices: Viking Star offers multiple restaurant locations and food choices--from The Restaurant and the World Cafe, serving a variety of global cuisines and regional specialties--to intimate dining experiences at The Chef's Table, Italian Grill and The Kitchen Table, all serving meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking Star offers more al fresco dining than any other ship.
-- Enriching Entertainment: Connecting passengers to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking Cruises, and Viking Star's onboard venues include a dramatic three-deck atrium where passengers can enjoy musicians playing regional and classical music; the Star Theater, home of enrichment lectures from scholars and experts; an onboard cooking school where guests can learn local specialties; and the Viking Piano Lounge, where guests can relax, mingle, and exchange stories after a day of exploring.
-- Sustainable Features: Designed with the environment in mind, Viking Star features energy-efficient hybrid engines, a hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hull and bow for maximum fuel efficiency, onboard solar panels, and equipment that minimizes exhaust pollution and meets the strictest environmental regulations.

Itineraries and pricing are outlined on the Viking Ocean Cruises web site at vikingcruises.com/oceans and Viking is offering an introductory Early Booking Discount in the U.S. market for the 2015 maiden season with 2-for-1 pricing on cruise departures and savings of $2,000 per couple on international air. The 2015 maiden season is initially being offered only in the U.S.; Viking will begin marketing the new ocean cruises in the UK, Australia and New Zealand later this year.

This new cruise line looks intriguing:

Image and Video Courtesy of Viking Ocean Cruises

Final Episode in Carnival Sunshine Video Series

With Carnival Sunshine’s transformation complete, here’s the final installment in the video series that highlights several of the ship’s new features including Havana Bar, Liquid Lounge, and Ji Ji Asian Kitchen.

Those are but a few of the many innovations incorporated during the massive $155 million dry dock. The unprecedented makeover added a variety of dining, bar, and entertainment options that are part of the line’s ongoing Fun Ship 2.0 product enhancement initiative.

Other innovations aboard the 3,006-passenger vessel include Carnival’s first three-deck-high Serenity adults-only retreat, the largest RedFrog Pub in the fleet, and guest favorite Guy’s Burger Joint developed by Food Network star Guy Fieri.

Carnival Sunshine entered service last week and is currently operating a series of 9- and 12-day Mediterranean voyages through October.

Check out the video and discover what other fun new spaces guests are able to enjoy aboard Carnival Sunshine.

Video Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines

Princess Cruises Joins USA Vietnam War Commemoration as Partner

In a special ceremony coinciding with Armed Forces Day today, Princess Cruises was officially recognized as a commemorative partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. Major General James T. Jackson (U.S. Army, retired), pictured here, presented a commemorative flag and certificate from the Secretary of Defense to Princess Cruises President and CEO Alan Buckelew, a Vietnam veteran himself, to mark the occasion.

The cruise line is being recognized as a commemorative partner in this program, created by the Department of Defense, in part because of activities saluting veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during Princess’ first-ever fundraising cruise. The sailing is expected to generate $1 million for two organizations committed to U.S. veterans—Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Inc. and Operation Homefront Inc. The 4-day cruise sails from Houston November 5.

More than 100 Princess employees were in attendance at the special celebration, including many Vietnam veterans, veterans from other conflicts, and military family members. Local student cadets from Valencia High School’s Jr. Air Force ROTC opened the program with the presentation of the colors.

“This is an important partnership for us at Princess, and as a veteran, it’s also a cause near and dear to my heart,” said Alan Buckelew, Princess president and CEO. “Like many Vietnam veterans, I don’t talk about my experience much, so I understand the importance of recognizing those who served as we mark the war’s 50th anniversary.”

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration is a national program conducted under the leadership of the Department of Defense to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The national program will include activities to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War—including those held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action—for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the U.S. and to thank and honor the families of these veterans. As a commemorative partner, Princess Cruises will conduct activities to recognize Vietnam Veterans for their service, valor and sacrifice. To learn more about the national commemorative program, visit vietnamwar50th.com.

Princess’ first-ever cruise to support U.S. veterans will feature a number of special guests including former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen (Ret.); retired senior officers from the Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force; an award-winning war correspondent; and other respected speakers, authors and panelists. More information and the latest line-up of special guests can be found at princess.com/cruisingforacause.

The Western Caribbean cruise will sail November 5-9, 2013 roundtrip from Houston aboard Caribbean Princess, with a call at Progreso, Mexico. The 4-day cruise will offer passengers the opportunity to honor those who have served in the military as well as active duty military personnel. In addition to the line-up of impressive military guests and speakers, there will be special performers, celebrities, unique topic panels and a military film festival. Princess will feature custom-design onboard activities such as a Stars and Stripes Sailaway; a military themed show; a Red, White and Blue Gala; and more–to celebrate US veterans.

A portion of each passenger’s cruise fare totaling approximately $500,000 will be matched by Princess Cruises for a total of $1 million earmarked for the two veterans’ organizations to share equally. As part of Princess’ ongoing Military Cruise Benefit Program, active and retired military personnel choosing to book this cruise will receive a $50 onboard credit. Additional information about the special “Cruising for a Cause” sailing supporting U.S. veterans can be found at princess.com/cruisingforacause.

Image Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Natasha Bedingfield to be Featured Singer at Royal Princess Naming Ceremony

Adding a touch of glamour to the naming ceremony that will launch Princess Cruises' Royal Princess, British singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield will perform at the June 13 naming ceremony of the new ship in Southampton. The globally acclaimed artist will make a special appearance at the celebration, where Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will officially name the ship.

Ever since her Brit Award and Grammy-nominated multi-platinum solo debut album "Unwritten" in 2004, the British-born Bedingfield has been one of the world's most inspiring and innovative contemporary female singer-songwriters at the top of the charts. With three albums under her belt, she is known for her powerfully soulful voice and heartfelt and contagious pop anthems. Bedingfield's radio hits include songs such as "Unwritten," "Pocket Full of Sunshine," "Love Like This" and "These Words," and her music can also be heard in numerous movies and television shows.

"We're excited to have Natasha Bedingfield lend her voice to this special occasion," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. "Her music will add a wonderful contemporary touch to the time-honored elements of the traditional naming ceremony."

In addition to Bedingfield's performance, the Royal Princess inaugural ceremony will feature many British ship-naming traditions, including a blessing of the vessel, and a performance by The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Portsmouth (Royal Band) and the pipers of the Irish Guards. The pinnacle of the ceremony will be when the ship's godmother, The Duchess of Cambridge, breaks the champagne bottle on the bow of the ship.

The ceremony will be the highlight of week-long inaugural celebrations to welcome the vessel into service. Royal Princess will arrive at the Ocean Terminal in Southampton on Friday, June 7 and will depart on her maiden voyage on June 16.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is a new-generation ship. Among the special features found on board will be a greatly expanded atrium, the social hub of the ship; an over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; plush private poolside cabanas that appear to be floating on water; the new Princess Live! television studio; the largest pastry shop at sea; a special Chef's Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms. After her maiden voyage the ship will sail Grand Mediterranean cruises throughout the summer, followed by Eastern Caribbean cruises beginning in the autumn.

Find more Royal Princess details, images, and videos on Cruise Diva's blog at:

• Princess Cruises Newest Ship Will Be A Royal
• Royal Princess: Expanded Atrium, New Features
• Royal Princess Introduces Updated Amenities and A New Balcony Stateroom Category
• Princess Cruises Raises the Curtain on New Royal Princess Entertainment Venue
• The Ultimate In Relaxation Coming Aboard Royal Princess
• Princess Cruises Shares A Look At New Royal Princess Fitness Facilities
• Princess Cruises Takes Dining To The Next Level With New Royal Princess
• Princess Cruises Unveils Posh Royal Princess Sanctuary & Retreat Pool With New Features
• Junior Cruisers Have A Lot to Look forward to In New Royal Princess Youth & Teen Centers
• Things You Might Not Know About Royal Princess
• The Duchess of Cambridge to Name Royal Princess

Photo Courtesy of Princess Cruises

SuperShuttle Launches "Destination Deals"

It's always nice to feel appreciated as a consumer and now SuperShuttle, the nation's largest airport ground transportation company, is offering its customers the opportunity to purchase local and national discounts on dining, entertainment and shopping through its partner Deem's Offers Network.

These customized Destination Deals on goods and services are sourced from Deem's™ syndicated commerce network, which currently has more than 1.2 million local and national merchants–ranging in category from dining, entertainment, and travel to shopping, wellness, and beauty. Available now, SuperShuttle customers will have access to Destination Deals with deals for event tickets, restaurant, nightlife, and more. SuperShuttle customers will have access to these deals on the road or even at home with deals on everyday purchases–everything from food to beauty treatments to carpet cleaning.

"SuperShuttle customers are some of the hardest travelers in the world. We feel they deserve and will enjoy relevant offers from us that provide added value to their travel experience. In addition, customers booking online through supershuttle.com can also earn airline points and miles on participating carriers including: Delta Air Lines SkyMiles®, Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns®, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards®, United Airlines Mileage Plus®, or US Airways Dividend Miles® programs," said Ken Testani, senior vice president of global marketing & partnerships for SuperShuttle and ExecuCar. "We want our customers to know we appreciate their business. We hope they enjoy this new opportunity for discounts when they are at home or away."

SuperShuttle International, is a division of Veolia Transportation On Demand. SuperShuttle serves 39 airports, three airports in France, and Cancun, Mexico and seven harbors in the US. carrying more than eight million passengers a year. Airports served by SuperShuttle include some of the largest in the country including Los Angeles, New York, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Washington, D.C., and Miami.

Banana Coast Cruise Port Signs First Cruise Line for Multiple Calls

It's been nearly a year since the announcement that the Banana Coast in Honduras is Coming Soon.

As you can see from the aerial view pictured here, construction on the dedicated-for-cruise-passengers facility has moved right along and now the Banana Coast port has signed Holland America Line as the first cruise line to schedule regular calls there. Holland America Line's 1,260-passenger Ryndam is slated to call at Banana Coast 11 times between 2014 and 2015 on its western Caribbean itineraries. The ship's Nov. 19, 2014, call is Banana Coast's first scheduled visit by a cruise ship, followed by the Dec. 17, 2014, call from luxury line Silversea Cruises' Silver Cloud.

Themed "Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea," the $30 million Banana Coast project is the newest cruise destination in the western Caribbean and the first mainland Honduras cruise port at Trujillo. Construction on the passenger-reception and shopping center was completed in February and a full slate of shore excursions has been designed. Future plans call for construction of a two-berth, post-Panamax pier.

"Having a premium cruise line like Holland America Line recognize the exciting opportunities of regularly calling at Banana Coast is a testament to the work we've put into making the port the hottest new destination in the Caribbean," said Randy Jorgensen, general manager of Grande Trujillo Authoridad, which owns the port. "Banana Coast has so much to offer and we look forward to welcoming Holland America Line guests to our beautiful shores."

In March 2012 Banana Coast developers unveiled a diverse shore excursion program designed to offer something for everyone, including cultural, historical, soft-adventure, and eco-tour offerings.

"Banana Coast is a fresh, exciting destination with limitless potential, tucked inside the calm, protected waters of the Bay of Trujillo," said Simon Douwes, director of deployment and itinerary planning at Holland America Line. "The innovative and diverse portfolio of shore excursions will surely appeal to all interests, and those seeking rest and relaxation will find it on one of Banana Coast's beautiful beaches."

Holland America Line's fleet of 15 ships offers more than 500 cruises to 415 ports in 98 countries, territories or dependencies. One- to 110-day itineraries visit all seven continents and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal.

For more information, visit the Banana Coast online.