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.

Carnival Splendor's Year-Round Schedule Expanded

Carnival Splendor

2014 will bring significant changes to Carnival Cruise Lines’ year-round offerings from New York. The line has significantly diversified Carnival Splendor’s itineraries by adding new 4- and 5- day Canada cruises, 7-day Canada/New England departures, and the only program of 8-day eastern Caribbean voyages operating one-way between New York and San Juan.

These new voyages complement the ship’s popular year-round 8-day departures that showcase top destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Central Florida. In total, Carnival Splendor will offer 10 different itineraries visiting more than a dozen scenic destinations throughout the Caribbean, Canada, and the U.S. Atlantic Coast, providing an incredible array of “Fun Ship” vacation choices.

Four- to Seven-Day Canada/New England Cruises from New York
Carnival Splendor will operate a schedule of 4-, 5- and 7-day Canada/New England cruises running from June to October 2014.

Four-day weekend cruises depart June 5, July 3 and 31, and Aug. 28, 2014, calling at Saint John, New Brunswick, while 5-day cruises depart Sept. 1 and Oct. 11, 2014, calling at both Saint John and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Five week-long “fall foliage” Canada/New England cruises will also be offered, featuring extended stops at Boston, Portland, Maine; Saint John and Halifax. Departure days for the 7-day voyages include Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27 and Oct. 4, 2014. These attractive Canada/New England voyages provide guests the opportunity to view centuries-old architectural structures, explore awe-inspiring natural wonders, and visit interesting historical landmarks.

Unique One-Way Cruises Between New York and San Juan
For the first time, Carnival Splendor will offer a series of one-way voyages between New York and San Juan. The 8-day itineraries will operate from New York to San Juan or vice versa, with stops at St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, and St. Maarten. Three New York-to-San Juan cruises will depart Oct. 24, 2014, and Jan. 12 and Feb. 13, 2015, while three San Juan-to-New York voyages will depart Nov. 1, 2014, and Jan. 20 and Feb. 21, 2015. On these one-of-a-kind voyages, guests can visit some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and participate in a wide range of activities, from snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking to zip-lining across the lush Caribbean countryside.

Eight-day Voyages Round-Trip from New York
These new options complement Carnival Splendor’s wide array of 8-day cruises round-trip from New York offered throughout the year. These include a Bahamas/Florida itinerary calling at Port Canaveral, Florida; and Freeport and Nassau, The Bahamas, along with two different eastern Caribbean routes, one featuring San Juan, St. Thomas and Grand Turk, and another visiting Grand Turk, Nassau, and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay. In addition to outstanding beaches, guests sailing on these cruises can experience unique dining, shopping, and cultural opportunities and tour a variety of historic landmarks and attractions.

Variety of Fun On-Board Options Aboard Carnival Splendor
The 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor offers a variety of on-board features and facilities, highlighted by a two-level 21,000-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa, along with four swimming pools, a cascading water slide and free, supervised programming and facilities catering to kids in three age groups. Dining options include two two-level main dining rooms, a classic American steakhouse and an expansive poolside restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines and a 24-hour pizzeria.

Carnival Splendor also offers a wide range of accommodation choices, including spectacular suites and Cloud 9 Spa staterooms, with more than 60 percent of all staterooms offering either an ocean view or private balcony. There are even inter-connecting staterooms that are perfect for families or guests travelling together.

“New York is a favorite homeport of Carnival guests and we’re delighted to expand our offerings from the Big Apple to include a diverse array of itineraries, from historic and charming cities in Canada and New England to a host of tropical island destinations throughout the Caribbean,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO. “At the same time, we’re also pleased to offer these special one-way cruises between New York and San Juan, which provide our guests with an even greater variety of exciting destinations from which to choose,” he added.

Image Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines

Pixie-Dusted Pre- & Post-Cruise Options in Florida & California

Whether you're planning to sail on your next cruise from Florida or California, Disney Parks have exciting new attractions and great places to stay that will enchant the entire family.

"Good timing, as much magic awaits you on pre- or post-cruise stays at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts! Our family hit both this spring and here are some of our favorite new attractions and lodgings," said Georgina Cruz.

Get a first-hand look at the new attractions that await as Georgina the the Cruz family explore the Pixie-Dusted Pre- & Post-Cruise Options on both coasts.

Holland America Line Reaches 1 Million Facebook Fans

Holland America Line achieved an impressive milestone this week when it reached 1 million Facebook fans. The line's Facebook page is a social media hub where fans can come together to get the latest news, get cruising advice, find information on specials, find fellow travelers on the Roll Call tab, share photos, enter contests and more.

As Facebook maintains its popularity with users around the world, Holland America Line continues to use the social media channel to communicate with fans and share information about the premium cruise line.

"Our fans, guests, and potential cruisers recognize the importance of Facebook as a way to interact and we are excited to reach 1 million fans," said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line's executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest programs. "Our social community is very engaged and we look forward to continuing to grow our fan base through new initiatives and interesting content."

Holland America Line's Facebook page is a dynamic community for ongoing conversations regarding the premium cruise line. Fans are encouraged to share stories, questions, comments, photos, videos and links about their experiences with Holland America Line on the wall and by engaging with tabs that feature sweepstakes, Roll Call events, special offers, cruise planning and engagement. Fans also are invited to participate in the community by posting cruise photos, experiences, questions, answers and comments. Holland America Line staff actively monitor the page to provide answers, insights, product news and information that assists fans to learn more about cruising with Holland America line.

Crystal Cruisers Can Earn Huge Bonus Rewards

Crystal Cruises is dramatically increasing the incentive for guests to share the renowned Crystal Experience. On 14 upcoming 2013 and 2014 luxury cruises, Crystal's new Bonus Share the Experience program offers all booked guests $400 in shipboard spending credit for each new-to-Crystal guest they refer to sail on the same cruise, in a separate stateroom. Booked guests can earn up to $1,600 per person in shipboard credits for his/her friend's new booking made after May 1. Each new guest receives a $400 bonus shipboard credit, up to $800 per stateroom.

What's different about the new Bonus program and Crystal's existing Share the Experience program? The Bonus program applies to select cruises, referring guests don't have to be past guests, and the credits are 4 times greater.

Bonus-applicable Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony voyages include:

-- Mediterranean: Oct 17 & Nov 2, 2013
-- New England/Canada: Oct 23, 2013
-- South America: Nov 23 & Dec 9, 2013
-- Trans-Ocean: Dec 9, 2013 & Jan 18, 2014
-- South Pacific/Asia: Feb 16 to Apr 9, 2014 cruises on Crystal Symphony; Feb 10 & 22, 2014 voyages on Crystal Serenity

"Travelers won't find a richer referral program in the industry," says Jack Anderson, senior vice president of marketing and sales. "We are inviting our most valuable ambassadors to share the award-winning Crystal Experience with friends and family. To show our appreciation, we are rewarding them with Bonus credits that can be used for a customized Private Adventure on land, a signature spa series on board, or a coveted piece of jewelry from our shops, among other indulgences."

Crystal's passion for taking care of guests in an inviting environment of extraordinary space, quality and choices has earned the company more "World's Best" awards than any other cruise line, resort, or hotel in history. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit CrystalCruises.com.

Norwegian Breakaway Christened by New York's Iconic Rockettes

The legendary Rockettes® danced their way into their role as Godmothers to Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway during a high-kicking, high-energy christening ceremony on Wednesday afternoon. Officiated by Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the entertaining event was hosted by Buddy Valastro, star of the TLC series “Cake Boss.”

Throughout the christening ceremony, which was simulcast in ten venues thoughout the ship and live streamed online, Norwegian Breakaway’s spectacular onboard amenities and entertainment were showcased in front of more than 4,000 guests. From live performances by Slam Allen, Howl at the Moon, Cirque Dreams & Dinner Jungle Fantasy, along with Burn the Floor and a show stomping finale featuring Rock of Ages, Norwegian Breakaway, the largest ship ever to homeport in Manhattan, kicked off its arrival to New York City in style.

“New York’s ship is home where she belongs,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We’ve been anticipating this moment for more than two years and are so thrilled to finally have Norwegian Breakaway amongst New York City’s greatest icons. We thank the City of New York for the warm welcome and are looking forward to a very successful inaugural season.”

Boasting hull artwork designed by pop icon and America’s most popular living artist, Peter Max, Norwegian Breakaway was designed as New York’s ship inside and out. On board, guests will enjoy the high-caliber dining and entertainment options that New York City is known for worldwide, including three new restaurants by Food Network star and acclaimed New York chef Geoffrey Zakarian. The ship’s groundbreaking design also includes an open-air boardwalk called The Waterfront, the largest aqua park at sea, with five waterslides, and a wide array of accommodations including 60 suites in The Haven, innovative studios for solo travelers, ocean view staterooms, balcony and mini-suite staterooms for families.

Here's a video capturing her departure from New York for a preview sailing Wednesday afternoon...

Norwegian Breakaway will begin her weekly 7-day cruises to Bermuda, throughout the summer, on Sunday, May 12 with a special guest onboard, Kevin Sheehan, the line’s Chief Executive Officer. From October through April, Norwegian Breakaway will offer 7-day voyages from the heart of Manhattan to the Bahamas and Florida, as well as two 12-day sailings to the Southern Caribbean. For more information on the incredible features and accommodations on Norwegian Breakaway, visit breakaway.ncl.com.

Image Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line