Crystal Cruises To Sail Elusive Northwest Passage In 2016

Crystal Cruises is introducing a new itinerary that is sure to draw the interest of their exploration minded past passengers. Expect this expedition-style voyage to sell out quickly. The route traverses the Arctic Ocean via the legendary Northwest Passage—one so mysterious and remote (500 miles north of the Arctic Circle), that explorers spent centuries seeking the passage, until it was first completed successfully by Roald Amundsen just over 100 years ago.

Crystal will be the first luxury cruise line to ever navigate the route, maneuvering through 900 miles of majestic waterways lined with spectacular glaciers, towering fjords, and vast unspoiled landscapes away from mainstream civilization and tourism, north of mainland Canada. Beginning August 16, 2016 in Anchorage/Seward, Alaska, the award-winning Crystal Serenity will sail for 32 days from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean/New York City.

"Crystal's inaugural Northwest Passage offers guests the opportunity to begin a new story of thrilling adventure, all the while indulging in the world's very best luxury vacation experience," said Crystal President Edie Rodriguez. "The voyage combines intrepid adventure, the great outdoors, and immersive cultural experiences with Six-Star service as only Crystal can deliver."

Following in the footsteps of intrepid explorers, the once-in-a-lifetime journey through once-unpassable waterways marks Crystal's maiden expedition-style itinerary and a break from many cruising traditions. Approaches to itinerary scheduling, destination visits, onboard offerings, and safety standards are all new or enhanced, with major changes including:

• A flexible itinerary: Extra "surprise" days are built into the schedule to allow unplanned "calls of the wild" for polar bear-viewing, whale-watching, glacier-cruising, scenic helicopter flights, and/or seeking out the best wildlife and weather on the advice of local specialist guides.
• New adventures ashore: Crystal will introduce "Wilderness Adventures" that take guests across polar tundra, up ice-strewn fjords, and into scenic coves to explore areas in and near maiden ports-of-call. Travelers will also be able to respectfully visit the small, remote communities and uninhabited, unscheduled spaces/lands/waterways en route, often with champagne waiting at the other end. Although some excursions will only be determined "in the moment" based on circumstances and environment, Crystal will spend the next two years planning a plethora of excursions and "Arctic safaris" involving kayaks, Zodiacs, a helicopter, ATVs, fishing, hiking, climbing, golfing at the world's northernmost nine-hole course, and even possible camping and/or overnighting away from the ship. Voluntourism opportunities to help local lands and communities will also be offered complimentarily to guests and crew via the line's "You Care. We Care." program.
• New enrichment: A 14-person expedition team of experts in a variety of subjects—including a native Arctic guide, scientists, and accomplished wildlife and landscape photographers—will not only provide lectures on subjects such as the science and history of the area, but also offer hands-on seminars and workshops, host dinners with guests, guide wildlife watching from the ship, and accompany excursions, where appropriate.
• Respect & understanding of the local culture: Guests will be given a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the lifestyles of these small and remote communities during port visits, with activities created in partnership with the communities. Designed to show modern life today in the Arctic, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the region, visits will include demonstrations of local arts and crafts, Arctic sports, traditional drum dancing and throat singing, and tastings of local foods, such as Arctic char and bannock bread.
• Onboard experience, expedition-style: Embracing the spirit of expedition, Crystal's usual onboard atmosphere of rest and relaxation will be relaxed even further with wardrobe (complimentary parkas, boot rentals, outfitter recommendations, and no "black tie optional" nights) and cuisine that, although still gourmet, is modified to reflect the locale and limited ability to re-supply goods and store waste during the month-long voyage.
• Ports-of-Call: Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, and Nome*, Alaska; Ulukhaktok*, NW Territories; Cambridge Bay* and Pond Inlet, Nunavut; Ilulissat*, Sisimiut*, and Nuuk, Greenland; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island, and New York, New York. (*=maiden call)
• Waterways: North Pacific Ocean; Bering Sea & Bering Strait; Chukchi & Beaufort Seas; Amundsen Gulf; Dolphin & Union Strait; Coronation Gulf; Dease Strait; Queen Maud Gulf; Victoria Strait; Larsen Sound; Franklin & Bellot Straits; Peel Sound; Parry Channel; Barrow Strait; Prince Regent Inlet; Lancaster Sound; Croker Bay; Navy Board Inlet; Eclipse Sound; Baffin Bay; Davis Strait; Labrador Sea; North Atlantic Ocean.
• Enhanced safety & environmental standards: Crystal Serenity and its escort vessel will be using low-sulphur Marine Gas oil fuel, exceeding environmental regulations. The escort vessel will carry additional safety and environmental protection equipment, as well as personnel specifically trained in its use. In addition, it will serve as a platform for a helicopter and zodiacs, and be manned by a crew highly experienced in all aspects of operating safely in this unique area.

As you might expect, this unique opportunity comes with a hefty fare. All-inclusive "Book Now" fares start at $19,755 per person, double occupancy, with an additional Crystal Society savings starting from $495/person and $3,000 included in savings if booked by August 29, 2014. Additionally, this cruise comes a new booking process. A 20% initial deposit will be required to secure all bookings, with $500 of the deposit being non-refundable. The initial booking window, which opened on July 17th, is only be available to guests who have sailed with Crystal before (i.e., Crystal Society members). Non-members may add their name to a waitlist, and remaining space, if any, will open to the public on Sept 2. Crystal Adventures will open for pre-reservation 18 months in advance of the cruise. For more information, visit CrystalCruises.com.

Image Courtesy Crystal Cruises

Lost Crewmembers

We've heard from several unofficial sources that three of the passengers who perished when Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was shot down over Ukraine were crewmembers from Celebrity Cruises who were on their way home to Indonesia. Please join us in a moment of silent reflection for them and their families.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise: It's The Greatest Party at Sea

If a Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words, Then What Is a Video Worth? Those of us who have sailed on The Smooth Jazz Cruise know how difficult it is to describe to others. It is more than amazing wall-to-wall music. It is more than a luxurious cruise. It is The Greatest Party at Sea!

Capturing that spirit in photographs and words is very difficult, although we tried during The Smooth Jazz Cruise 2008. However, the real essence and excitement of the cruise can best be seen in the interaction between the Artists and the Guests, the staff and crew and the Guests, and the Guests with their fellow Guests. Depicting the interaction is very difficult, too, but video comes the closest to connecting the dots, which is why the hosts at Entertainment Cruise Productions have put together an amazing video of The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’14, together with a lot of information about The Smooth Jazz Cruise 15.1 and 15.2. Yes! For 2015, there are TWO sailings and special guest Natalie Cole will be unforgettable on both!

About 20 cabins have become available recently aboard Eurodam for The Smooth Jazz Cruise 15.1, which departs Fort Lauderdale on January 11, 2015, and just over 200 remain for The Smooth Jazz Cruise 15.2 that sails on March 1st. Both cruises will visit Nassau, Bahamas, St. Thomas and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Holland America Line’s private island Half Moon Cay. The second sailing is just under eight months away, but those cabins won’t be available for long, so now is the best time to secure a reservation. Book your cabin online with Entertainment Cruise Productions or call 888.852.9987.

There is only one cruise in this musical genre that has sailed 17 times and provided the smoothest entertainment for more than a decade! The Smooth Jazz Cruise ... the first, the best and the Greatest Party at Sea.

Image Courtesy of Entertainment Cruise Productions

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer is Officially Under Construction

With the crisp pop of a cork being freed from a Krug Grande Cuvée magnum, a laser cut the ceremonial first piece of steel this week to begin the construction of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy. Incorporating a bottle of the world’s finest champagne to start the building process is symbolic of the high level of sophistication and design being developed for Seven Seas Explorer, which is scheduled to debut in summer 2016.

The ceremonial first piece of steel will serve as the foundation for an opulent, one-of-a-kind owner’s suite unlike any other at sea. The suite, with exquisite stonework and luscious fabrics, will serve as a hallmark for the superior level of elegance found throughout the ship. When it debuts, Seven Seas Explorer will establish a new benchmark for style and service and perfectly complement the all-inclusive luxury experience currently enjoyed by guests sailing with Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

During the ceremony, Kunal S. Kamlani, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Gabriele Cocco, senior executive vice president of merchant ships for Fincantieri, began a countdown that culminated with Maison Krug Italy’s master sommelier, Michela Cimatoribus, releasing the cork from a magnum of Krug Grande Cuvée. As the cork soared and the champagne flowed, confetti cascaded down and the laser cut the first piece of steel for the 750-passenger ship.

“We’re one step closer to fulfilling our dream of building the most luxurious ship in the world and giving our guests another exciting option to explore inspired global destinations with our special brand of all-inclusive luxury,” noted Kamlani. “Seven Seas Explorer will surpass the current standard in luxury cruising, offering a new level of grandeur throughout the ship from its lavish suites to its elegant public spaces and gourmet restaurants.”

At 54,000 gross-registered tons and carrying only 750 guests, Seven Seas Explorer will boast the highest space ratios and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry and further strengthen Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ widely recognized position as the most inclusive luxury cruise line. Seven Seas Explorer will join the rest of the award-winning Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet in the summer of 2016. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will begin taking reservations for the maiden voyage and inaugural season for Seven Seas Explorer in early 2015.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises: pictured above are Michela Cimatoribus (Master Sommelier Maison Krug Italy), Gabriele Cocco, (SEVP of Merchant Ships for Fincantieri), Kunal S. Kamlani, (President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises), and Raffele Davassi (SVP Ponente Shipyard)

Norwegian Cruise Line Revamps Their Smoking Policy

Travel agents were informed yesterday that Norwegian Cruise Line will ban smoking on private balconies effective for all cruise departures on or after Nov 1, 2014. The revised smoking policy is as follows:

As the health and well-being of our guests and crew is of the utmost importance, Norwegian Cruise Line will institute changes to its smoking policy for all sailings on or after Nov 1, 2014. The specific changes prohibit smoking on stateroom balconies and limit smoking in the casino to players. On Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway, smoking on The Waterfront will be permitted on the starboard side, except by the outdoor dining areas.

Public areas throughout all our ships are smoke-free. If you smoke regular or electronic cigarettes, you can do so in designated areas only. If you prefer pipes or cigars, you can smoke in the Cigar Bar or designated smoking lounge. Smoking cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars and pipes is permitted in outdoor public guest spaces and open decks where designated by the ship's management based on the ship's specific characteristics and arrangement. Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is prohibited in or near venues serving food, the jogging track, outdoor sporting venues, The Haven outdoor areas and children's pool areas. On ships with The Waterfront, smoking is permitted on the starboard side excluding any food service areas. Active Casino players may smoke cigarettes in the Casino during gaming hours. Cigarette smoking is not permitted in any other indoor venue or location.

Guests are not permitted to smoke cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars or pipes in their staterooms or on their balconies. Cigar and pipe smoking in staterooms and on balconies is prohibited. Smoking inside your stateroom or on your balcony will result in a $250 cleaning charge added to your onboard account. If cigarette burns on furniture, linens, towels or carpeting are detected; guests will be advised and charged for the damages.

Electronic cigarettes cannot be used in public areas where there is a No Smoking policy in force; simply because these cigarettes look so realistic and therefore other guests' perception is that we are not enforcing the No Smoking rule.

With the recent balcony smoking ban announced by Carnival Cruise Lines, that leaves Holland America Line as the only major US-based cruise line that still allows smoking on private balconies. We wonder if they will make a similar policy change in the coming days.

Image (c) Cruisediva.com

Norwegian Cruise Line Orders Two More Breakaway-Plus Class Cruise Ships

With two Breakaway-Plus Class ships already under construction, Norwegian Cruise Line announced this week that it has reached an agreement with MEYER WERFT GmbH of Germany to build two more of the 164,600 gross ton, 4,200 passenger berth ships. The contract price for both ships is approximately euro 1.6 billion.

“Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway have proven themselves as industry game-changers and are extremely popular with our guests,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “It was only natural that we build on their success with this new ship order that further solidifies our long-term growth strategy.”

Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered the concept of Freestyle Cruising which offers guests the freedom and flexibility to enjoy their cruise vacation on their own terms, including multiple dining venues, relaxed attire, a variety of accommodations, and world-class entertainment. The line took Freestyle Cruising to the next level with the introduction of Norwegian Epic in June 2010 and subsequently launched two Breakaway Class vessels, Norwegian Breakaway based in New York in May 2013 and Norwegian Getaway homeported in Miami in February 2014. These ships incorporate 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 connect guests with the ocean. The line currently has four vessels on order at MEYER WERFT for delivery in fall 2015 (Norwegian Escape), spring 2017 (Norwegian Bliss), and the two just-announced and as yet unnamed vessels due to launch in spring 2018 and fall 2019.

Image of Norwegian Escape & Norwegian Bliss Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

New Rules For Flying With Electronic Devices

Before leaving on a trip—especially one that includes air travel—one of the final tasks on my ‘to-do’ list is to charge laptops and other electronic devices. I don’t want the battery on my music player or tablet to run down mid-flight when I’m reading and listening to music. Not all planes are equipped with outlets to plug in chargers and now there’s an even more urgent reason to be sure electronics are charged before arriving at foreign airports.

Earlier this month the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security issued the following statement due to concerns over the possibility of explosives hidden within electronic devices being taken on airplanes:

DHS continually assesses the global threat environment and reevaluates the measures we take to promote aviation security. As part of this ongoing process, I have directed TSA to implement enhanced security measures in the coming days at certain overseas airports with direct flights to the United States. We will work to ensure these necessary steps pose as few disruptions to travelers as possible. We are sharing recent and relevant information with our foreign allies and are consulting the aviation industry. These communications are an important part of our commitment to providing our security partners with situational awareness about the current environment and protecting the traveling public. Aviation security includes a number of measures, both seen and unseen, informed by an evolving environment. As always, we will continue to adjust security measures to promote aviation security without unnecessary disruptions to the traveling public.

In a follow-up, the TSA released this clarifying statement:

Last week, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson directed TSA to implement enhanced security measures at certain overseas airports with direct flights to the United States. As the traveling public knows, all electronic devices are screened by security officers. During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted on board the aircraft. The traveler may also undergo additional screening. TSA will continue to adjust security measures to ensure that travelers are guaranteed the highest levels of aviation security conducted as conveniently as possible.

It’s been some time since passengers were routinely asked to boot up laptops during the security screening process and in recent years it has only been necessary to remove them from cases to be sent through the x-ray machine separately. However, in addition to laptops this new ‘power-it-up’ rule covers all electronics such as cell phones, tablets, music players, electronic reading devices, and mobile phones. For international travelers, this could cause delays during airport screenings and if their batteries are dead, the devices won’t be allowed on the airplane.

No one wants to have expensive electronics confiscated, so heed this warning to make sure they are fully charged prior to arriving at the airport.

Image © CruiseDiva.com

Carnival Cruise Lines & the Port of New Orleans Sign A Five-Year Agreement

New Orleans Port & Skyline, from the
Lido Deck of a Fantasy-class Ship

The Port of New Orleans announced last week that it has signed a new agreement with Carnival Cruise Lines that will keep the world’s largest cruise line sailing at least two ships year-round from The Big Easy through 2019.

Superseding a three-year extension inked in 2013, the new agreement offers three one-year options that could guarantee Carnival homeports at least two ships of equal or greater size than the Dream Class and Fantasy Class ships sailing from the Port today through 2022. The new agreement took effect on July 1st.

“This is a clear demonstration of Carnival’s belief in New Orleans as one of its top home ports,” said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange. “We look forward to helping Carnival grow its business in the Crescent City for the long-term.”

Carnival currently has two cruise ships sailing year-round from the Port’s Erato Street Cruise Terminal which was recently renovated to accommodate the 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream, which launched 7-day itineraries on April 14, 2014 from New Orleans with eastern and western Caribbean cruises. The Carnival Dream joined the Carnival Elation, which sails 4- and 5-day cruises to Mexico. Together, these two ships carry more than 400,000 passengers annually from New Orleans—the most of any cruise line.

“Carnival is excited to continue our outstanding relationship with the Port of New Orleans,” said Gerry Cahill, president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines. “We greatly value the professionalism of our partners at the port, the ease of operating from New Orleans, and the tremendous support we receive from the local community...”

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has ranked New Orleans the sixth largest cruise port in the United States.

Image (c) CruiseDiva.com

New Cruise Review: Carnival Freedom

In his Carnival Freedom cruise review Keith Henderson takes a look at the numerous features added in the ship's recent Fun Ship 2.0 upgrade and critiques everything from dining and entertainment to the itinerary and excursions.

Keith gives a thumbs-up to most of the added features on board, such as Guy's Burger Joint and the Blue Iguana Burrito Bar, but finds some of the entertainment lacking.

Image (c) CruiseDiva.com

Silversea Debuts Haute Couture Uniforms

A recent fashion show held aboard Silver Wind in Venice previewed new uniforms designed by Italy's prestigious Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) of Milan for luxury line, Silversea Cruises.

The project was launched in September 2012, when the IED team spent several days aboard Silver Spirit, drawing creative inspiration from the elegant ship's Art Deco interior, and gaining insight into the functions and needs of the ship's officers and staff working in a diversity of settings, including reception, restaurants, lounges, and housekeeping.

The IED designers have created an elegant and distinguished look in several variations that complements the luxury line's brand image. The collection features natural fabrics, including cotton and wool, in a black, white, blue, and gray color palette. In the coming months, several hundred Silversea shipboard employees will be outfitted in the elegant uniforms from Milan. Illustrated here are the Butlers' chic new uniforms.

"We're delighted to showcase the talents of the up-and-coming fashion designers of IED," said Cristina Levis, Silversea's head of business development. "They have created stylish and comfortable uniforms that will be made in Italy and that effectively project the sophistication, professionalism, and graciousness of the ladies and gentlemen who represent our brand."

Designers of the collection are Antonio Pala, Alla Polozenko, Laura Liistro, and Magdalena Kilkovich. The project was coordinated by Francesca Tottoli, manager of special projects for IED Moda, and professors Valentina Conzo and Alfonso Granieri.

Image Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carnival Cruise Lines Introduces More Restrictive On Board Smoking Policy & Raises Gratuity Guideline

Here at Cruise Diva we hate to hear about cruise line policy changes second hand. In this case, I came across Facebook posts about a new smoking policy and an increase in gratuities quietly being introduced by Carnival Cruise Lines. I say quietly because there had not been an official announcement to the media as of 2:30pm yesterday.

However, when I searched the line's web site, sure enough, I came across the information in the Question & Answer section, which follows below.

Q: What is the smoking policy?

A: Effective on voyages departing October 9, 2014, or thereafter, all staterooms and suite accommodations are an entirely smoke free environment, including the outside balcony.

Cigarette and E-cigarette smoking will continue to be allowed in designated exterior open deck areas, as well as in our night club, and in certain areas within the casino and casino bar.

Cigar and pipe smoking will continue to be allowed in designated exterior open deck areas only.

Note: Guests who smoke in their staterooms or on their balconies will be assessed a $250 cleaning and refreshing fee on their Sail & Sign account. Information on this fee is included in Carnival's cruise ticket contract. Guest agrees to strictly comply with Carnival’s non-smoking policy.

We certainly hope travel agents have been notified. Their booked clients who are smokers should be made aware of the change in time to cancel their reservations if they feel strongly enough about the new policy, which mainly no longer allows them to light up on private balconies. Some Facebook posts indicate that previously loyal Carnival past passengers are cancelling.

As of this date, to our knowledge, Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America Line are the only cruise lines that still allow smoking on balconies.

And the gratuities? Here's the Q&A:

Q: What is the tipping policy onboard?

A: For your convenience, we automatically charge the gratuities for dining and stateroom staff to your onboard Sail & Sign account.

• Voyages departing through Oct 8, 2014; the daily amount is $11.50 per guest
• Voyages departing Oct 9, 2014 onward; the daily amount is $12.00 per guest

Cruise Diva understands that booked guests who prepaid the gratuities by July 7 will not be charged the increase.

Image Courtesy Carnival Cruise Lines

Royal Caribbean Uses Google Street View Technology

Royal Caribbean International is changing the way how people plan their vacations by working with Google to be the first cruise line to launch Google Maps Business View using Google’s Street View technology onboard the world’s largest cruise ship Allure of the Seas. By using Street View technology, Royal Caribbean can provide consumers with an immersive and interactive experience when they are searching for a vacation.

With just a few clicks, guests will be able to virtually walk through the various decks of Allure of the Seas including the Royal Promenade, a boulevard that runs nearly the length of the ship, flanked by restaurants, boutiques and lounges; Central Park, an outdoor park longer than a football pitch complete with over 12,000 live plants and trees; the Boardwalk, featuring a carousel, two rock-climbing walls and the AquaTheater, a high-dive aquatic performance venue with the deepest pool at sea; Entertainment Place, with an elaborate theatre, night club, comedy club, jazz club and ice-skating rink, which offers professionally produced ice shows; the Pool and Sports Deck featuring a zip line, twin FlowRider surf simulators, full-size basketball/sports court, nine-hole mini-golf course, 15 pools and whirlpools and 22 restaurants, and many, many more.

Vacationers will be able to access the technology, a first for the cruise industry at royalcaribbean.co.uk/royalview or via Google Search results, Google Maps, and Google+ by using their computers, smartphones, or tablets.

Over 20,000 images were taken over the course of 60 man hours and eight days to complete the virtual representation of Allure of the Seas. The images were taken using a basic DSLR camera using a fisheye lens and a panoramic head resting on a tripod. This method takes twelve photographs at each point and uses high-dynamic-range imaging to ensure the best exposure for areas of different light.

Photo Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Intl.

Kid Rock’s 6th Annual Chillin’ the Most Cruise to Set Sail

Kid Rock has once again joined forces with Sixthman, the industry leader in music festivals at sea, to present Kid Rock’s 6th Annual Chillin’ the Most Cruise. The floating music festival will set sail March 2–6 from Miami, FL to Cozumel Mexico aboard Norwegian Pearl.

For the first time in Kid Rock Cruise history, guests will be invited to go on a “blind date” with Kid Rock. In previous years, the full festival lineup has been announced prior to the event. On this 6th voyage, Kid Rock has decided to keep guests guessing about the artists joining the supporting lineup. Guests will find out which artists are coming along for the ride the moment they board the ship, bringing an exciting twist to this highly successful festival at sea. The activities, contests, theme nights, and all other details guests are accustomed to knowing prior to sailing will be announced periodically in the months leading up to the event.

Norwegian Pearl will sail to the island of Cozumel, which offers an array of activities for Kid Rock Cruisers. From fishing and snorkeling to shopping, local dining, and more, passengers have plenty of adventures to choose from that are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. With an exclusive “Chillers-only” shore excursion, guests can take the party from the ship to this little slice of paradise at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Visit KidRockCruise.com to learn more about the upcoming booking process and for announcements on performances, contests, activity details, and special guest artists.

Image Courtesy of Sixthman

New Video Inside Costa Concordia

The UK's Telegraph has shared a recently filmed underwater video of the outside decks and inside the atrium and up the grand staircase of Costa Concordia. The images are very clear and quite startling.

American Cruise Lines Launches A New Riverboat

A new paddlewheeler being built for American Cruise Lines for service on the Mississippi River was successfully launched at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland last Sunday. Immediately following the picture perfect launch into the Wicomico River—seen here—tugboats nudged the new riverboat into Chesapeake Shipbuilding’s East Outfitting Basin where the upper decks and outfitting will be completed.

“This is a significant milestone in the construction process and also for American Cruise Lines,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines. “We look forward to introducing yet another new paddlewheeler on the Mississippi River and its tributaries.”

The launching comes just a few weeks after the joining of the two hull sections, weighing at almost 600 tons a piece. With the installation of the upper decks up next, the new riverboat will come together quickly, and upon completion will be the second new riverboat built for the Mississippi River by American Cruise Lines. Two additional riverboats are also on the way.

The just-launched boat, still unnamed, will have a capacity of 150 passengers and is scheduled to begin navigating the Mississippi River and its tributaries in the spring of 2015.

Image Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

Concordia Wreck to Move to Genoa, Italy for Dismantling

A statement from Costa Cruises indicates that the Italian Cabinet has authorized Titan Micoperi to tow the Costa Concordia wreck to Genoa, Italy, for dismantling and recycling. The decision marks the beginning of the final phase of the removal of the wreck from the coast of Giglio, Italy.

"The cabinet's approval of the project for transportation of the Concordia to Genoa for dismantling and recycling means that achievement of the goal we set ourselves 2½ years ago, namely, the safe and definitive removal of the wreck from Giglio Island, is now well within sight," said Costa Crociere CEO Michael Thamm. "We are now just two weeks away from refloating the ship. We will supervise the final phase of the Concordia project with the same commitment and attention that we have put into this challenge since the very beginning, using the best expertise and technologies, in compliance with the highest environmental safety standards, and in full cooperation with the authorities."

With the green light for towing the Concordia wreck to Genoa, more than 350 Titan Micoperi technicians are working 24/7 at Giglio Island to rapidly complete the preparations for refloating. Only two more sponsons are still to be installed to reach the total of 30 needed to refloat the wreck. Refloating is scheduled to start by mid-July upon authorization of the Monitoring Observatory, and towing of the wreck from Giglio Island is planned by the end of the month.

"The Concordia's last voyage will be provided by Titan Micoperi, the consortium commissioned to carry out the salvage operation on Giglio Island," Thamm explained. "Once the ship is in Genoa, we will be able to count on the cutting-edge technical and management skills of the Saipem consortium to deal with the environmental aspects of the Concordia dismantling operations. The work will be done at San Giorgio del Porto, the first shipyard in Italy to be included in the Special Register of Environmental Ship Reclamation & Recycling Facilities, which has many decades of experience in ship repairs and refitting. The technical and financial solidity of Saipem/SGdP represents an important guarantee for the project."

The last phases of the Concordia wreck removal project—refloating, transportation and dismantling/recycling—will be explained in detail by Costa Crociere and its partners in the coming days. Information about the progress of operations and details of upcoming media briefings will be posted on the project website: www.theparbucklingproject.com

Transportation from Giglio Island to Genoa:
Once it is refloated, the wreck will be towed to the Port of Genoa Voltri under the direction of the Titan Micoperi team, which is in charge of the Concordia salvage operation. It will travel a distance of about 190 nautical miles (219 statute miles) at an average speed of 2 knots (2.3 mph), taking an estimated four days.

The window for the transportation falls statistically in the period characterized by the best sea and weather conditions for the region. Studies and analyses have confirmed the safety of the planned method of transportation. As has always been the case in all phases of the Concordia removal project, environmental protection is the top priority.

The ship will be towed at low speed and escorted by other vessels carrying specialized equipment and personnel, including a team of marine biology experts who will be ready to intervene should any problem arise.

Background on the dismantling/recycling project:
Dismantling and recycling will be provided by a consortium formed by Saipem, part of state-owned ENI Group, a leading company in engineering and environmental projects, and San Giorgio del Porto, a shipyard active since 1928 in ship repairs and refitting, and the first shipyard in Italy to be included in the Special Register of Environmental Ship Reclamation & Recycling Facilities.

The Saipem/San Giorgio del Porto plan for dismantling and recycling of the Concordia wreck will be carried out in four phases that are expected to last a total of 22 months as follows.

• Phase I: The Port of Genova Voltri will be readied to receive the vessel and perform initial ship breaking activities including stripping of the interior furnishings and fittings on the decks above water.
• Phase II: The wreck will be transferred from the Voltri Breakwater to the Molo Ex Superbacino dock, where the structures of decks 14 to 2 will be dismantled.
• Phase III: Will consist of preparatory activities for transfer of the wreck to Dry Dock no. 4. At this stage the sponsons will be removed and the food storerooms and cold storage rooms on Deck 0 will be cleaned.
• Phase IV: Operations will be carried out in the segregated area of Dry Dock no. 4 with complete disassembly of the wreck, involving removal of the other interior fittings, cleanup of various areas and final demolition of all remaining structures. This phase will conclude with appropriate handling, disposal and recycling of the discarded materials.

The Concordia Wreck Removal Project:
The Concordia wreck removal is an extremely complex technical engineering feat—considered the biggest salvage ever attempted on a ship of its size—with the deployment of the finest international expertise, state-of-the-art technology and unprecedented financial resources. The priorities of the project were clear from the outset: respect for the environment, workplace safety and protection of the Giglio Island’s socio-economic fabric. The Concordia wreck was rotated to a vertical position with a successful parbuckling operation Sept. 17, 2013.

A Double Dose of Disney's Magic For Families

Catch a Double Dose of Magic Disney-style with something for everyone in the family.

Join our contributor Georgina Cruz, her husband Humberto, daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons for a multi-generational get-together: a pre-cruise stay at the Walt Disney Resort, followed by a cruise aboard Disney Cruise Line's fourth and newest vessel, Disney Fantasy.

It's a cruise and resort review you won't want to miss.

Carnival Freedom Debuts Four New Revues

As part of an extensive multi-million-dollar makeover, Carnival Freedom has debuted four brand new production shows featuring cutting-edge technology that blends live performances with towering LED screens showcasing spectacular staging and special effects. The latest in the line’s high-tech Playlist Productions revues, the four new shows complement an array of innovative new features that are part of the Fun Ship 2.0 product enhancement initiative that were recently added to the ship. Including the new shows introduced on Carnival Freedom, the company’s entertainment team has created ten Playlist Production shows which are presented throughout Carnival’s “Fun Ship” fleet.

Carnival Freedom’s new Playlist Productions shows are:

• 80s Pop to the Max — This high-energy show channels the era of Day-Glo, Spandex, and big hair with spirited performances of the hottest music video hits from the 1980s. From the pop-rock of Duran Duran and Cindy Lauper to the smooth soul of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson and beyond, 80s Pop to the Max takes audiences back to days when “video killed the radio star.”
• Heart of Soul — This mesmerizing show tugs on the heart strings, capturing special romantic moments with recognizable R&B and soul hits from a host of legendary singers, from Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder to Otis Redding, Ray Charles and Al Green. In a unique twist, six lucky couples are chosen for a special night of romance with VIP seats, champagne, and flowers.
• Getaway Island — A high-tech re-creation of popular beach movies of the 1960s featuring 3D special effects, Getaway Island invites guests to set their watches to “island time” as they experience a tropical island bash with music from Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley, the Beach Boys and others. Getaway Island also features its own version of Carnival Freedom’s new RedFrog Pub with a cocktail glass-spinning bartender and talented guitar soloist. It’s always 5 o’ clock on Getaway Island!
• 88 Keys: The Rock n’ Roll Piano Show — Goodness, gracious great balls of fire! Highlighted by sing-along hits from Billy Joel, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and others—as well as an appearance from Carnival Freedom’s own piano bar pianist—88 Keys: The Rock n’ Roll Piano Show spotlights these talented artists who have taken the term “tickling the ivories” to a whole new level.

Presented in Carnival Freedom’s 1,400-seat Victoriana Show Lounge—which has been renovated to accommodate Playlist Productions’ sophisticated technology—the new revues were created by Carnival’s in-house entertainment team which has been expanded with new members hired specifically to concept, develop, and roll out these four new shows.

Carnival Freedom will operate 5- to 8-day Caribbean departures from Fort Lauderdale through February 2015 and then reposition to Galveston, Texas, to sail year-round 7-day Caribbean cruises.

Image Courtesy Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines Launches “How To” Video Series

After your cruise vacation have you ever wondered, “How’d they do that?” Did you want to recreate some aspects of the experience at home? Me too. Recognizing that we’d like to keep the fun going, Carnival Cruise Lines has launched an engaging new “How To” video series to give us an inside look at the line’s signature recipes, fun-filled tips, special guests, and vacation-inspired ideas that extend some of the most popular elements of the Carnival vacation experience to computer screens, tablets, and mobile devices everywhere.

The first segment in the biweekly series is entitled “How to Make a Texas-Style Burger” and was inspired by Carnival’s close relationship with the Lone Star state and features Carnival partner and Food Network personality Guy Fieri. Guy shows viewers how to create a mouthwatering, fresh-off-the-grill Texas-Style Burger with its double-patty burger, roasted green chili salsa, and tortilla strips that can be special-ordered aboard the Texas-based Carnival Triumph, as well as Carnival Freedom, once that ship repositions to Galveston in February 2015.

Fieri mentions in the video that the burger prep begins by spreading his signature “Donkey” Sauce on the bun, but doesn’t say what’s in it. Cruise Diva has that covered with the “secret” recipe for it here:

“Donkey” Sauce

1 cup prepared mayonnaise
1/4 cup roasted garlic butter
1 teaspoon regular yellow mustard
4 dashes Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
4 pinches ground black pepper

Mix the mayonnaise, roasted garlic, mustard, Worcestershire, salt and pepper together until smooth. Yield: about 1 cup

Upcoming “How To” videos will demonstrate how to master a myriad of shipboard specialties, including recipes from the popular BlueIguana Cantina, cocktails from the vintage-themed cocktail “pharmacy” Alchemy Bar, and, of course, creating the line’s legendary towel animals.

You’ll find those and more on Carnival’s popular YouTube channel.

The Beach Boys Join The Malt Shop Memories Cruise Entertainment Line-up

Every year we look forward to boarding Holland America Line’s beautiful ms Eurodam for the Malt Shop Memories Cruise and this year’s sailing will be even more exciting with a late addition to the entertainment line-up. We just learned that The Beach Boys are joining the cruise this November and we’ll have another night of “Fun, Fun, Fun” when they perform on our last night of the rocking’ voyage as we sail from Key West back to Fort Lauderdale.

“We are very excited to be back on the Malt Shop Memories Cruise,” said Beach Boys frontman Mike Love. “We tour for the fans and will bring all of our classic hits to the stage.”

Formed in California, The Beach Boys popularized the surf rock and car craze across the country during the 1960s with hits like “Surfin’ Safari,” “Good Vibrations,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “I Get Around,” to name a few.

“The Beach Boys’ sound encapsulates that indescribable feeling that everyone experiences on this cruise,” added Chris Hearing, President, StarVista/Time Life. “We love providing our guests with the absolute best entertainment, wonderful memories, and a chance to feel like a teenager again. We know The Beach Boys will have everyone up and dancing!”

Naturally, we’re still excited about the other artists on the roster, including Dion, Brenda Lee, The Temptations, Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, The Drifters, Matthew & Gunnar Nelson remembering their father Ricky Nelson, and another of Cruise Diva’s “beach music” favorites—Jan & Dean’s Beach Party starring Dean Torrence. Everyone asks the Cruise Diva what her favorite cruise is and I can honestly say it’s the Malt Shop Memories Cruise.

The Malt Shop Memories Cruise is nearly 80% sold out, so don’t hesitate if you plan to sail with us on November 2-9, 2014, departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. Get additional information at the Malt Shop Memories Cruise website or call 877-700-MALT. See you in November!

Image Courtesy of Entertainment Cruise Productions

A New Star on the Water

Viking Ocean Cruises' first ship, the 930-passenger Viking Star, was "floated out," on Monday, June 23—marking the latest major construction milestone, and the first time that the new ship's hull touched water. A traditional float out ceremony took place at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard outside Venice, Italy.

According to Italian shipbuilding tradition, the ceremony is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. Viking Star's float out began at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time, when a "madrina"—a woman of honor—cut a cord to allow water to begin flowing into the ship's building dock. After the two-day process that set Viking Star afloat, she was moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out. With a total of three sister ships now under construction, Viking Star will be the first to debut in early 2015 with maiden voyages in Scandinavia and the Baltic; and the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.

"Today is a proud day for our entire Viking family, as we are one step closer to launching a new era of ocean cruising," Viking Cruises Chairman Torstein Hagen said at the ceremony. "Viking Star's maiden season was sold out before she even touched water, which just demonstrates how enthusiastic our guests are for destination-focused ocean cruises. It is this enthusiasm that has led us to place orders for two additional sister ships, Viking Sea and Viking Sky."

Viking developed its ocean cruises with experienced travelers in mind and extensive feedback and input from Viking River Cruises passengers. Itineraries are designed 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, Viking Inclusive Cruising 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. Guests 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

Considered a "small ship," the 930-passenger Viking Star, as well as its two sister ships under construction, Viking Sea and Viking Sky, is engineered at a scale that allows direct access into most ports, so guests have easy and efficient embarkation and debarkation. Light-filled and intimate, the ship features understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design. Highlights include:

-- All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from a 270 sq. ft. veranda stateroom, all with king-size beds, large showers, and LCD TVs.
-- Explorer Suites: Viking Star features 14 two-room Explorer Suites, ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft., that offer views from wrap-around verandas as well as the most amenities of any category onboard.
-- Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable dome permitting any-season swimming, the ship features a glass-backed infinity pool, cantilevered off the stern, allowing passengers to swim surrounded by their destination.
-- The Spa: In keeping with Viking's Nordic heritage, The Spa onboard 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 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.
-- 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. With multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking's ocean ships offer more al fresco dining than any other ships.
-- Enriching Entertainment: Connecting passengers to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking Cruises, and 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 and socialize.
-- Sustainable Features: Viking Star features energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hulls and bows for maximum fuel efficiency, onboard solar panels, and equipment that minimizes exhaust pollution and meets the strictest environmental regulations.

From now through June 30, 2014, Viking is offering U.S. residents an Early Booking Discount with 2-for-1 pricing on cruise departures and savings of up to $2,000 per couple on international air.

Image Courtesy Viking Ocean Cruises

Costa Cruises Kicks Off Summer With "La Notte Bianca"

With the summer season comes the longest days of the year, and Costa Cruises is celebrating with "La Notte Bianca" (white party) throughout July on ships in the Mediterranean and northern Europe. This party is traditionally celebrated in many Italian cities and brings more of the country's culture onboard.

The white theme will be reflected in activities that go all day and last late into the night. Every ship will be "dressed up" for the special occasion—from the bars and lounges to the pool, the main hall, and restaurants—with unique all-white decorations, while ship staff will wear white outfits to get guests into the party mood.

Activities planned for the celebration are for all ages and nationalities, such as treasure hunts, trivia quizzes and many other events organized by the staff. Among the most exciting surprises will be a flash mob with guest participants dancing with Costa's Animation staff.

The celebration will continue with a white party at the pool starting at 10 p.m. that will welcome everyone who wants to dance and enjoy the entertainment of the ship's deejays and professional dancers who will perform on unique platforms. Special decorations, white glow necklaces and ice sculptures will be the ideal enhancements for the ultimate Costa summer party (pictured above). By the way, the "Lido" pool was an Italian innovation so it's a particularly fitting setting.

The La Notte Bianca theme extends into food and beverage, with a special white dessert and specially made white drinks served in the main dining room, while bar staff will perform a cocktail demonstration of popular white-theme drinks like an apricot daiquiri, piña colada, White Russian and White Lady.

Guests who want to dress in white and get into into the “La Notte Bianca” mood can visit the onboard apparel shops that will have an area dedicated to a “white collection.”

Image Courtesy Costa Cruises

Carnival Unveils New Family-Friendly Features

The children are out of school and summer travel season is in full swing, so it's time to pack up the family and head out on vacation. With families on their mind, Carnival Cruise Lines continues to enhance its family-friendly offerings, introducing the new Dr. Seuss Bookville family reading venue and Camp Ocean marine-themed children's program on Carnival Freedom, along with highly attractive rates for families to make a summer cruise more affordable than ever.

After a multi-million-dollar makeover, Dr. Seuss Bookville and Camp Ocean have recently debuted on Carnival Freedom. Camp Ocean features more than 200 new ocean-inspired activities that are part of a fleetwide rollout of new children's programming designed to build upon Carnival's position as the family cruise leader. Carnival hosts more than 700,000 kids a year, the most of any cruise operator and roughly double what the line carried a decade ago. With low rates, along with special discounts for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom, this summer is a great time for families to take advantage of the value of a Carnival cruise.

"Families are an important market to us and with these new family-friendly enhancements, combined with highly attractive summer rates, we're making cruising on Carnival an even greater value while providing kids and their parents an opportunity to create a lifetime of vacation memories together," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. "Seuss at Sea and Camp Ocean are not only wonderful additions to our top-rated children's programs but also provide our valued travel agent partners with a highly effective tool for attracting more families to the 'Fun Ships,'" he added.

Part of an exclusive agreement with Dr. Seuss Enterprises, Bookville (pictured above) features iconic decor, colors, shapes and funky furniture inspired by the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. Here, kids and their families can read beloved Dr. Seuss books or stretch their imagination through fun activities such as arts and crafts, toys and Dr. Seuss-inspired games. Bookville will also be featured on the new Carnival Vista when it debuts in 2016. Bookville is part of Seuss at Sea, a fleetwide family, dining and entertainment experience inspired by the amazing world of Dr. Seuss. The program also includes the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with the Cat in the Hat and Friends, an interactive reading event called Seuss-a-palooza Story Time, and the Seuss-a-palooza Character Parade along the ships' promenade.

Camp Ocean (pictured at right) is a fun-filled new children's program that immerses children ages 2-11 in the wonders of the sea through fun and engaging experiences, with underwater-colored spaces and energetic, highly trained staff. Three age-related categories each have their own identity: children ages 2-5 are dubbed "Penguins," those ages 6-8 are called "Stingrays" and 9-11-year-olds are "Sharks." In addition to fun new spaces, from miniature play igloos for the Penguins to interactive gaming stations for the Sharks, Carnival Freedom's new Camp Ocean facility includes Party Reef, a common area that brings each of the groups together, as well as a breakout room for arts and crafts activities called Creative Cove. Camp Ocean serves as the venue for a host of new activities, from educational games such as Under the Sea Mad Libs and Ocean Artifacts Memory Tray to creative arts opportunities like Design Your Own Aquarium and Make Your Own Sailboat.

Family friendly offerings are available throughout Carnival's "Fun Ship" fleet, which this summer will offer a wide range of 3- to 8-day departures from a variety of convenient homeports throughout North America. Carnival Freedom currently operates 5- to 8-day Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale then repositions to Galveston, Texas, for year-round 7-day Caribbean departures beginning in February 2015. Take care when selecting your cruise—amenities and facilities vary by ship with fleetwide implementation of Seuss at Sea expected to be completed by 2015 and Camp Ocean by 2016.

Images Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines

Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth Receives a Multi-Million Dollar Refit

Only four years old, Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth has a new look following her recent revitalization. For solo travelers, the most exciting feature will be the addition of single occupancy staterooms with no single supplement.

The new four-minute video below follows the progress of the multi-million dollar refit that took place aboard the ship, creating nine new single staterooms, laying more than 25,000 square meters of carpeting, replacing more than 3,000 mattresses, installing 1,200 flat screen TVs, adding new awnings on the sun decks, re-modeling the Lido restaurant and Royal Arcade shopping area, and on the technical side, replacing a 65 ton alternator.

Over 20 days in May and June, 950 contractors worked with ship’s staff around the clock to complete the work at the Blohm+Voss yard in Hamburg, Germany, drinking 54,300 cups of coffee, more than 35,000 cups of tea and 9,000 liter bottles of water, and consuming more than 80,000 meals—with 13,500 sachets of tomato sauce—over the duration of the 265,000 man-hour project.

Recognizing the increasing popularity of solo travel, eight outside and one inside staterooms were added to the ship and are on sale now, available for booking beginning with the December 16, 2014 sailing (voyage number Q422).

The single staterooms (pictured right) measure 159 to 162 square feet, with features including:

• Ideal central location, mid-ships in close proximity to the social areas of the Empire Casino, the Royal Court Theatre and the Queens Room
• Small double beds with generous width of more than 47”
• Large windows giving plenty of natural daylight and excellent views (outside staterooms only)

Other innovations made possible by the refit include waiters with insulated coffee and tea pots henceforth serving passengers with hot drinks at all meals, following the refurbishment of the ship’s informal Lido restaurant. The addition of recessed risers will improve the styling of this self-service area as well as passenger flows within it.

More generally, carpets have been renewed and large flat-screen TVs—mostly 32” or above—have been installed in all passenger staterooms. Sun awnings have been erected on the open area near the Lido pool at the stern on Deck 9 and on both sides of the Grills Upper Terrace area near the top of the ship to offer more shade out on deck. The creation of a dedicated studio enables the ship’s photographers to offer high-end portraiture, while the addition of touch screens in the photo gallery continues the development of a digital environment in which passengers can more easily find and select their photos taken by the team.

Shopping in the Royal Arcade on Deck 3 has been transformed with the addition of new Fine Jewelry and Watch shops and the layout, lighting, and overall shopping experience for passengers has been enhanced.

On the technical front, scrubber technology has been installed in line with the company’s commitment to minimizing its environmental impact. This involves the installation of a new filtration system for the exhaust gas from the ship’s engines. In addition, a new alternator has been installed.

Video & Image Courtesy Cunard Line

How to Make Carnival Cruise Lines' Rum Jumper

It's summer, it's hot, and it's time for a refreshing foo-foo drink. This one, a Rum Jumper from Carnival Cruise Lines, sounds like just the ticket to quench your thirst.

While the bartender mixes it up pretty quickly and doesn't add each ingredient he mentions in the video, get a pen and paper to write down his instructions and enjoy.

Video Courtesy Carnival Cruise Lines

Costa Cruises' Costa Diadema to Feature a Spectacular Promenade & New Dining Venues

Costa Cruises has revealed more details about its latest vessel under construction and, when the Italian line's new flagship launches, we are told that the Costa Diadema will provide guests a new way to experience the Mediterranean Sea. Fondly nicknamed Regina del Mediterraneo (Queen of the Mediterranean), the ship will feature large, split-level public rooms directly overlooking the sea and conveniently interconnected to create an atmosphere similar to a lively seaside resort.

The outdoor promenade on Costa Diadema will provide a spectacular vista of the sea. As the longest promenade of Costa's fleet, it provides a 1,640-foot walk that will feel like a stroll on a gorgeous Italian shore or along Sanremo Passeggiata dell'Imperatrice, the seafront of Santa Maria di Leuca in Italy's Puglia region. Roberto Bixio's two large glass mosaics titled "Riviera Ligure" featuring imagery from the Mediterranean coasts embellish both the left and right side of the promenade and cover a total area of 440 square feet.

The spacious promenade measures 16 feet across and up to 26 feet wide where the six cabanas and two Jacuzzis are located. The cabanas and hot tubs extend out from the side of the ship, creating the sensation of being suspended over the sea. In the cabanas guests can relax over drinks or enjoy a romantic sunset dinner, comfortably sheltered from the wind.

Bars and restaurants overlook the promenade, re-creating the atmosphere of a summertime Mediterranean beach. Guests can order a glass of top-quality Italian regional wine at Vinoteca Gran Duca di Toscana or a beer from Birreria, which offers a selection of bottled beer from Italian and foreign brewers along with a range of beers on tap. Alternatively, for an aperitif, Bar Bollicine features a wide selection of the most prestigious Italian brands of Prosecco and Spritz aperitifs.

Costa Diadema also is introducing several new dining venues, including an authentic Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. Guests who want authentic Italian food can enjoy a slice of pizza in the casual atmosphere of the Pizzeria or sample a delicious ice cream, Italian pastry, crepe, hot chocolate, or pralines at the Gelateria Amarillo. Gourmands can savor the delicacies of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine in the a la carte Club Restaurant or healthy spa dishes at the Samsara Restaurant. After having a drink with a view of the sea and a stroll along Costa Diadema's promenade, passengers will reach the elegant Teodora Bar at the stern.

The ship's christening ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 7, 2014, in Genoa, Italy. Starting Nov. 8 and for the rest of the 2014-15 winter season and the 2015 summer season, Costa Diadema will depart Savona on 7-night cruises to the western Mediterranean, calling at Marseille, France; Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Naples and La Spezia, Italy.

Images Courtesy Costa Cruises

The Jazz Cruise ’15 Has a New ‘Song’ to Sing

In the world of marketing, you know you have something special when you can mention one name and everyone in the world conjures up the same image. Coke, Pepsi, Google, and Amazon are just a few examples of the one-word wonders, the holy grail of identity.

There are certainly a few names in jazz that have this same impact—Miles, Dizzy, Ella, Frank—but for a business or a location to have that same power is really something. Birdland is one example of one-word name recognition. When you say “Birdland,” it can be only in reference to one thing... a truly amazing place to hear jazz, perhaps the very best jazz in the world, when you are in New York. Thanks to the generosity of owner Gianni Valenti, The Jazz Cruise can now tell their great fans that Eurodam’s Ocean Bar will be transformed into the home for Birdland for events each night of the cruise, including a farewell event on the last night.

For past guests wondering what will happen to Freddy Cole and Freddy’s Club, do not fret, as four of the nights will feature Freddy’s Club at Birdland. The remaining nights are being planned right now, and cruise hosts at Entertainment Cruise Productions can assure you that they will be very special. To make the Birdland transformation complete, Gianni Valenti himself will be sailing with on Jazz Cruise ’15 and will usher in the festivities every night starting at 11:45 p.m. How authentic can you get?

The Jazz Cruise ’15 — Cabin Inventory
Good verandah and outside cabins remain, so now is the time to complete your reservation and secure your place on The Greatest Festival at Sea... The Jazz Cruise, which sets sail from Fort Lauderdale on Jan 25, 2015. For online reservations or more information, please visit the website or speak with a reservationist anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CDT Monday through Friday (toll-free) at 888.852.9987.

Image Courtesy Entertainment Cruise Productions

Australia Ranks Number One as Cruise Passengers Hit New High

Look out, North America, the Aussies are taking to cruise vacations in a big way and that’s the reason some of our favorite ships are sailing away from local ports to make the land Down Under their new home.

Launched in Sydney last week, the 2013 Cruise Industry Source Market Report shows Australian cruise passenger numbers soared 20 per cent in 2013, more than double the growth rate of any other major cruise market. The Australian cruise industry is now ranked number one in the world for market growth and penetration, with latest industry figures revealing a record 833,348 Australians took a cruise last year. With the equivalent of 3.6 per cent of the Australian population taking a cruise in 2013, Australia has become the first nation to ever achieve a stronger penetration rate than the world’s largest passenger source market, North America. In 2013, the equivalent of 3.3 per cent of the North American population took a cruise.

Announcing the report findings, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia Chairman Gavin Smith said Australia was “punching well above its weight” in the international cruise industry. “Australia is still a relatively young cruise market, yet the number of Australians taking a cruise has grown by an enviable average 20 per cent a year for the last 11 years as a growing number of travelers discover the many joys of cruising,” Mr Smith said. “That’s a remarkable achievement, particularly when you consider we’re now leading the world in market penetration. With more ships being deployed in Australia in 2014 and 2015, we’ve set course for continued growth over the next few years, so the benchmark of one million annual cruise passengers should be reached by 2016, if not before.” Mr Smith said the continuing growth of the local cruise industry meant it was playing an increasingly important economic role in many Australian cities and towns, delivering valuable tourist dollars.

The latest CLIA Australasia figures build on the 2012 result which saw Australian passenger numbers rise 11 per cent to 694,062. Key findings of the 2013 CLIA Australasia Cruise Industry Source Market Report for Australia include:

• Australia’s passenger growth rate of 20 per cent was more than double other key markets including Germany and France, which grew 9 per cent, the USA (3 per cent) and the UK/Ireland (1 per cent).
• The Australian market penetration rate of 3.6 per cent led the world ahead of North America (3.3 per cent), UK/Ireland (2.5 per cent), Germany (2.1 per cent) and Italy (1.4 per cent).
• The South Pacific continues to dominate as a cruise destination, with almost 80,000 more Australians cruising the region in 2013, taking the total number to more than 330,000 (40 per cent of the market)
• River cruising numbers leapt 25 per cent as almost 50,000 Australians took to inland waterways
• Asian cruising is on the rise again with passenger numbers up 28 per cent to a record 44,382 as cruise ship capacity starts to expand
• The number of Australians cruising to New Zealand has almost reached 100,000
• Europe continues to dominate long-haul destinations with numbers surging 34 per cent to more than 77,000 Australian cruisers. While Mediterranean cruising remains the strongest draw card, Northern Europe numbers rose more than 50 per cent with the region attracting close to 20,000 passengers
• The number of passengers taking cruises of 8-14 days saw a massive spike, rising almost 35 per cent from 353,342 in 2012 to 475,154 in 2013
• Australians spent an estimated 8.7 million days at sea in 2013, up 22 per cent on 2012, with holidaymakers enjoying 10.25 days on average on an ocean cruise and 14.4 days on river cruises
• NSW remains the leading source of cruise passengers accounting for 41.1 per cent of the market
• Cruise passenger ages continue to be spread broadly across all age brackets, reflecting the diversity of product and itineraries available to Australian holidaymakers.

Seabourn Partners with UNESCO to Protect World Heritage

Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn has signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in a unique alliance to help protect World Heritage sites. The partnership is being created to foster wider support and understanding in the travel industry and among travelers for UNESCO's mission of identifying, safeguarding, and promoting unique cultural and natural features around the world deemed to possess universal value for all humankind.

Seabourn has committed to raising $1 million for UNESCO as part of this multi-year agreement. For Seabourn's guests, this alliance means that their travels on Seabourn's small all-suite ships will be enhanced by deeper insight and behind-the-scenes information about current and future World Heritage sites and projects. Speakers with special knowledge about World Heritage will sail on Seabourn's ships as a part of the line's Seabourn Conversations enrichment and entertainment program. In addition, fares for Seabourn optional excursions that include UNESCO World Heritage Sites will include a small donation to UNESCO's World Heritage Fund. The company will also create special World Heritage Discovery Tours at a number of ports worldwide, with exclusive enhanced content on World Heritage.

"Seabourn is proud to be partnering with UNESCO to promote and support sustainable tourism," said Seabourn President Richard D. Meadows. "Through this partnership we are committed to providing our guests with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the many World Heritage sites we visit around the world and the important work UNESCO is doing."

Seabourn shares with its guests a genuine passion for exploring the world's most exceptional destinations. Year after year, the company provides its guests opportunities to experience one-of-a-kind treasures such as the temple complex of Borobudur on Java, the excavated ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum in Italy, and the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. As completely different as these places are, they share a common attribute—they are all designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Since its founding, Seabourn has facilitated visits to hundreds of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and currently includes over 150 designated sites in its itineraries. Now it will also help to support UNESCO's efforts to expand, promote and preserve these precious global resources for future generations of travelers.

Image Courtesy of Seabourn

And The Best Bartender At Sea Is...

Earlier this month we reported in CruiseDiva.com's Cruise News that four cruise line bartenders—one each from Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Celebrity Cruises—had battled it out on the high seas to secure a place at the semi-final of one of the world’s largest luxury mixology competitions. The final four, who were victorious over 5,500 cruise line mixologists, went head to head at the DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS™ Global Travel semi-final event, which was held last week in Miami.

And the winner is Shekhar Grover of Royal Caribbean International (pictured above), who was crowned Diageo Global Travel best cruise line bartender. Judged by a panel of industry elites, Shekhar, 27, from India, impressed with his incredible showmanship, inventive cocktail-making, and unrivalled flair. Shekhar and his fellow competitors were tested on different aspects of their craft, creativity, and bartending knowledge. Shekhar excelled in the bar arena and enthralled judges with his signature serve inspired by this year's Mediterranean theme: 'French Royale' featuring CIROC® Vodka. The mixologist master will go forward to the star-studded DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year Global Final taking place July 28-August 1, 2014 in London, to battle it out against 50 of the world's best bartenders for the coveted 'Bartender of the Year' title.

Shekhar, who is one of the Lead Bartenders on the Oasis of Seas, said, "I'm thrilled to win the WORLD CLASS Global Travel Final and I'm very excited to be going forward to represent cruise-line bartenders at one of the industry's most prestigious and respected mixology competitions. I've been inspired and challenged by many talented bartenders over the last few weeks and I'm really looking forward to using the skills and knowledge that I've developed through the program to wow the judges."

If he is successful at the Global Final, securing the title of DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year, Shekhar will experience a life changing journey filled with new opportunities. Previous winners have become recognized industry leaders, travelling the globe as WORLD CLASS Ambassadors and participating in international high-profile events.

Image Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Experience Game of Thrones With Holland America

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Then Holland America Line has an intriguing excursion designed just for you.

The new “Experience the Game of Thrones” shore excursion at Belfast, Northern Ireland, offers a behind-the-scenes look at many of the locations where the hit show is filmed. The tour begins at Castle Ward, which fans know as Winterfell, and travels to Audley’s Castle, a backdrop for many scenes and the site of Robb Stark’s camp. Throughout the tour, die-hard fans will learn about special effects and costuming, test their knowledge of show trivia and hone their archery skills. Participants also will have a photo opportunity with actual costumes from the series, making them feel like part of the cast.

For those unfamiliar with the show, the tour still is full of beauty and enchantment as the area has a rich history that long predates “Game of Thrones.” Audley's Castle was built in the 15th century and Castle Ward was finished in the 18th century.

Holland America Line offers a variety of itineraries visiting Belfast on ms Prinsendam and ms Rotterdam. The cruises vary in length from 14 to 35 days and depart Rotterdam or Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Image Courtesy Holland America Line