Carnival Cruise Line Opens Reservations for More than 3,500 Sailings Through April 2018

Planning ahead for your next cruise just got a little easier with Carnival Cruise Line opening reservations for its entire fleet through April 2018, with more than 3,500 two- to 19-day voyages offered across its 24 ships, as well as the new Carnival Vista set to debut in Europe May 1, 2016.

Voyages will visit more than 70 destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Europe and other popular cruising regions. Cruises depart from nearly 20 different North American homeports, providing consumers with convenient and cost-effective means for getting to and from their cruise.

Included among the wide variety of offerings are more than 2,500 two- to 5-day cruises, providing consumers with an array of options in the short cruise market. These include new 3- and 4-day deployments for the Carnival Victory from Miami and Carnival Valor from Port Canaveral, providing an unprecedented number of balcony staterooms on these two popular cruising routes.

There are also 22 longer length Carnival Journeys cruises visiting exotic ports of call and 13 voyages to Bermuda departing from seven East Coast homeports. Carnival will also offer two unique Panama Canal experiences—partial transits aboard the Carnival Pride from Baltimore in January 2017 and from Tampa in February 2017—offering consumers an unforgettable vacation experience.

Also open for reservations through 2018 are several new homeport deployments, including 7-day Carnival Breeze departures from Galveston, week-long Carnival Magic sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida, and 4- and 5-day Carnival Triumph cruises from New Orleans.

Image © CruiseDiva.com

Holland America Line Shares the Exceptional Dining Experiences on ms Koningsdam

While there are exceptional dining experiences on every Holland America Line voyage, the line’s newest ship ms Koningsdam offers even more culinary options than ever. Take a look at what’s cooking in the latest “Countdown to Koningsdam” video:

The Dining Room is where Koningsdam’s guests will dine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a more formal setting. The ambiance of the two-story restaurant is sophisticated and airy, with several impressive new features for a Holland America Line ship. The bright, modern design creates a unique dining venue while reflecting the ship’s overall design theme that was inspired by the architecture of music. The sunny, yellow room features expansive windows that allow for maximum daylight and views of the sea. In the evening the color turns to a darker shade of amber, setting the tone for a more elegant evening dining ambience. Structural ribs inspired by the strings of a classical harp connect the first floor to the second floor ceiling and create the sense of a more rounded, curvilinear space. A grand, curved staircase connects the two dining levels.

The centerpiece of The Dining Room is a sculptural champagne gold wine tower designed to appear folded and fluid. Flowing over the dining experience are stunning chandeliers made from strings of tri-color, hand-blown glass bulbs.

On the menu will be Holland America Line’s signature dishes, classic selections, regionally inspired cuisine, and Culinary Council recipes from the world-famous chefs who compose the group, including Holland America Line’s Master Chef and Council Chairman Rudi Sodamin and renowned international chefs Mark Best, Jonnie Boer, David Burke, Elizabeth Falkner and Jacques Torres.

Then explore all the dining options on board:

Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship for Holland America Line. In addition to The Dining Room, guests will enjoy fine dining in several alternative restaurants including Sel de Mer, a new French seafood brasserie; a new immersive farm-to-table concept dinner experience in the Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine; a redesigned Lido Market with themed serving stations; and favorites such as Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto Italian restaurant, and pan-Asian Tamarind.

Videos Courtesy Holland America Line

Chic Sandals For Your Cruise Vacation

With the groundhog predicting an early end to winter, it's time to think of warm weather and sandals to go with spring and summer fashions. Like many women, I'm always looking for the perfect go-to pair—they have to be stylish, but most importantly they must be comfortable. I think I've found perfection with NAOT Footwear's "Kayla" style.

You can see how chic they are in the photo at left, but it's how they feel that has my feet ready to happy dance. Mimicking the footprint you leave in wet sand at the beach, the footbed is designed for comfort. Starting at the front, Hallux support enables natural hold of the big toe to prevent the foot from slipping forward, the elevated center releases pressure in the joints of the center of the foot, arch support distributes body weight to reduce pressure, and a deep heel indentation helps the body to maintain balance and protects the heel bone. Beneath it all, the footbed is constructed of a blend of cork and latex for flexibility, durability, and shock absorption with a layer of latex sponge padding for softness. There are dozens of styles in an array of colors to choose from for women and men.

The story behind NAOT Footwear is as interesting as the shoes are comfortable. Founded by members of Kibbutz Naot Mordechi in 1942 to make simple work shoes and sandals, the one room workshop has grown to become Israel's leading manufacturer and exporter of shoes. Handmade in Northern Israel, every NAOT sandal is a shoe of peace—they are a joint effort of Israeli and Palestinian workers. Each year 15,000 pairs of NAOT shoes and sandals are donated to charities with the hope that their addition to the lives of less fortunate people will bring them joy and happiness one step at a time.

To learn more about this exceptionally comfortable footwear, visit NAOT online. To find an authorized retailer in the United States, call 1-800-NAOT-USA (1-800-626-8872).

Image: CruiseDiva.com

Seabourn Encore Grand Wintergarden Suites Unveiled

Luxury cruise line Seabourn has revealed details—as well as the rendering at left—of the Grand Wintergarden Suites, the most luxurious and largest suites aboard its newest, luxury vessel, Seabourn Encore, launching late 2016. Unfolding as a lap of luxury for guests who desire exquisite comfort and room to entertain, the two Grand Wintergarden Suites will offer a variety of in-suite amenities and features that encourage guests to make themselves at home.

"Seabourn Encore's Grand Wintergarden Suites will be two of the most beautiful and striking suites in ultra-luxury travel," said Christopher Prelog, Seabourn Vice President of Hotel Operations. "Like a spacious vacation home, guests will enjoy the superb amenities, especially the private glassed-in Solarium with a soaking tub and lounging bed."

Located on deck 8, each of the Grand Wintergarden suites will provide nearly 1,550 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. The suites will feature large windows for picture-perfect ocean and shore views, two bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, two private verandas, dining for six, convertible sofa-bed, pantry with wet bar and espresso machine, and three flat-screen televisions. One of the most unique features of the suites will be a glass-enclosed solarium with soaking tub and daybed, an ideal spot for guests to relax and enjoy the sunset. Two generous verandahs outfitted with all-weather table and chairs will provide nearly 250 square feet of private space, making it an ideal setting for al fresco dining. The suite bathrooms radiate elegance, with a separate whirlpool tub and shower, polished stone, gleaming hardware and mirrors, as well as exclusive bath products from Molton Brown.

Guests residing in the Grand Wintergarden suites, as well as other premium suites, will receive an array of added amenities, including personalized service by the Guest Service Manager, private car transfers on embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary Internet service, daily newspaper delivered to the suite, plush bathrobes, large tropical fruit basket, beautiful fresh flowers, an extended in-suite reference library, and more.

All of the suites on board Seabourn Encore will offer a number thoughtful details to pamper guests, from a welcoming bottle of chilled Champagne with canapés to the personalized services of a Personal Suite Stewardess. Delivering unobtrusive care, the Stewardess can provide guest preference of designer soaps, draw Pure Pampering baths, replenish ice and bar set-up, manage laundry service needs, and assist with any special requests. Additional in-suite amenities and features will include ample storage and walk-in closets complete with plush bathrobes and slippers; an in-suite bar stocked daily with preferred beverages; and a choice of pillows to suit guests' preferences. Entertainment options will feature flat-screen televisions with an extensive array of movies, music, broadcast television and radio channels.

Seabourn Encore will expand and build on the line's highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which revolutionized ultra-luxury cruising with enhanced accommodations and innovative amenities when they were introduced between 2009 and 2011. Seabourn Encore will maintain the line's high ratio of space per guest, enabling highly personalized service by close to one staff member for each guest on board. The 40,350-GRT ship will be configured with one additional deck and new expanded public areas, and is expected to carry just 600 guests, based on double occupancy. In addition, every suite will feature a private veranda.

Image Courtesy of Seabourn

Princess Cruises Reveals New Livery Design

Unless a cruise ship has a distinctive shape (Carnival Cruise Line’s winged funnel) or hull art (Norwegian Cruise Line & Aida Cruises), it’s difficult to distinguish one white-hulled vessel from another. Pretty soon that won’t be a problem when looking for Princess Cruises’ ships. Majestic Princess, the first cruise ship built and designed specifically for the China market will be the first ship in the fleet to debut the distinctive new livery design pictured here.

Featuring the company’s conic seawitch logo, the new livery design will roll out fleetwide over the next few years. One of the most recognized brand logos in cruising; the design symbolizes the smooth and flowing gracefulness of ocean waves and represents the excitement and adventure of discovering the best the world has to offer on a Princess cruise. The modern, sophisticated-look is designed to reinforce the premium experience of Princess Cruises, recognized around the world as a destination leader.

“For nearly half a century our Princess logo has represented the adventure of cruise travel around the globe,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “Now our ships sail to more than 360 ports of call worldwide and will be instantly recognized from afar. As the very first cruise ship built for China, we take great pride that Majestic Princess is our first ship to proudly display our new livery design.”

Also reaching a significant construction milestone this week, Majestic Princess “floated out” in its building dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. The occasion was marked by a traditional ceremony as the ship met ocean water for the first time. Following the Italian shipyard’s custom, the float out of a ship begins when a “madrina,” or godmother, cuts the cord that signals the flow of sea water into the ship’s building dock. Executive Vice President of Fleet Operations Keith Taylor and recently appointed Majestic Princess Captain Dino Sagani represented Princess Cruises at the ceremony. Captain Sagani’s mother, Graziella Sagani, served as the ship’s “madrina.”

Majestic Princess will offer many of the same special features as Royal Princess and Regal Princess, which have been so well-received. These include a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship; an over-the-ocean SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; the Princess Live! interactive studio; and a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light.

As the first cruise ship built and designed specifically for the China market, Majestic Princess will also feature a number of new venues and experiences created for that market, the details of which will be revealed in the coming months. Majestic Princess will home-port in Shanghai and carry 3,560 guests.

Image Courtesy Princess Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line Raises Zika Virus Awareness

Warnings about the Zika virus have been all over the news and travelers to regions where it is commonly found have reason to be concerned. Unfortunately, that includes many destinations on cruise itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line wants their guests to be informed and has sent the following advisory to their travel agent partners:

"We want you to be aware that we have been actively monitoring the Zika virus and remain in close contact with public health authorities. As always, the safety and security of our guests and crew is of the utmost importance. We regularly advise guests to protect themselves from mosquito and other insects bites while ashore and are advising of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) travel advisories and recommended precautions in daily communications.

At this time, the only passengers who are advised not to travel to affected areas are expectant mothers and we have made accommodations for those very few affected guests to reschedule their cruise for a future date in the next two years or change their itinerary to non-affected destinations. For those guests who have opted to purchase a Travel Protection policy, cancellations are covered under the "Cancel for Any Reason" portion of the policy.

For anyone else traveling, the recommended method for avoiding risk is to take steps to protect from mosquito and other insect bites and follow the CDC guidelines, which include covering exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats and use an appropriate insect repellent containing DEET.

We are continually monitoring the situation as well as the recommended methods for avoiding risk."

For more information, please visit the Center For Disease Control.

Photo © Linda Coffman, CruiseDiva.com

SS United States to Join Crystal Cruises Fleet

Over the years various organizations have attempted to save the SS United States—Norwegian Cruise Line even owned it at one time. While those efforts saved the iconic ship from the wrecking ball, it now looks like Crystal Cruises—the ultimate white knight—will shake off her mothballs and get her sailing again.

Together with the SS United States Conservancy, Crystal has announced it will save "America's Flagship," the SS United States, and embark on the enormous undertaking of bringing the ship into compliance with the latest standards, and returning her to oceangoing service. Crystal also committed to covering all costs associated with preserving the ship while undertaking a technical feasibility study, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

"The prospect of revitalizing the SS United States and reestablishing her as 'America's Flagship' once again is a thrilling one. It will be a very challenging undertaking, but we are determined to apply the dedication and innovation that has always been the ship's hallmark," says Crystal President and CEO Edie Rodriguez. "We are honored to work with the SS United States Conservancy and government agencies in exploring the technical feasibility study so we can ultimately embark on the journey of transforming her into a sophisticated luxury cruise liner for the modern era."

In order to meet modern demands and be in full regulatory compliance, the SS United States will have to be extensively re-built to meet over 60 years of new maritime rules and shipbuilding practices. The modern United States by Crystal Cruises will be transformed into an 800-guest-capacity vessel, featuring 400 luxury suites measuring about 350 square feet, with dining, entertainment, spa and other guest amenities that are true to the ship's storied history. Features of the original SS United States such as the Promenade and Navajo Lounge will be retained, while new engines and sophisticated marine technology will be installed to maintain her title as the fastest cruise vessel in the world.

Crystal will be examining exciting new itineraries for the 60,000-gross-ton United States by Crystal Cruises including not only the traditional transatlantic voyages from New York City, but cruises from key U.S. ports as well as international voyages around the globe which are a signature offering of Crystal and part of the line's "World Cruise."

The epitome of American post-war innovation and design, the SS United States was launched in 1952 and captured the transatlantic speed record on her maiden voyage—a record to this day that still stands. She remains the largest passenger ship ever designed and built in America. Before her retirement in 1969, the SS United States was the most glamorous ship in the world, having transported four U.S. presidents, international royalty, many of Hollywood's "golden era" celebrities, as well as a million passengers. While the ship captivated travelers with its features, the ship's origin was equally intriguing. She was designed as part of a top-secret Pentagon program during the Cold War, which stipulated it could be quickly converted from a luxury liner into a naval troopship in the event of a war, carrying 15,000 troops with a 240,000 shaft horsepower propulsion plant capable of traveling 10,000 nautical miles—almost half way around the globe—without refueling.

In October 2015, the SS United States Conservancy's Board of Directors announced that the persistent challenge of covering the vessel's monthly expenses had compelled them to engage a ship broker to explore the potential sale of the ship to be responsibly recycled. This news resulted in an outpouring of public support worldwide and led to the Conservancy raising additional funds which enabled the organization to continue its preservation efforts and pursue negotiations with potential investors and partners.

To facilitate the complex technical feasibility study and to ensure a smooth execution of the project, Crystal has appointed retired U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Tim Sullivan to build and lead a team with a wide range of cruise line technical, legal and regulatory expertise. With 36 years of active service, Admiral Sullivan has extensive experience in ship operations as a Commanding Officer of numerous Coast Guard cutters, and over the years has engaged in high level of interaction with a myriad of U.S. government agencies and international regulatory entities.

Every Day is Valentine's Day For Chocolate Lovers At Sea

I love chocolate and I'm not alone. As a rule, cruise passengers love chocolate too. The proof is in the pudding—and the chocolate cake, and the chocolate soufflés, and the chocolate truffles. While you're shopping for that perfect box of chocolate for your Valentine, consider that Carnival Cruise Line alone buys more than 1.3 million pounds of chocolate each year. A half million of those pounds go into making the passenger-favorite Warm Chocolate Melting Cake—some 4 million of the cakes consumed annually in the main dining rooms of the line's two dozen ships. For Valentine's Day, Carnival Cruise Line chefs will make some 60,000 chocolate-covered strawberries, along with love-themed desserts.

While no exact statistic is available, it is fair to say that millions of pounds of chocolate are consumed at sea each year on cruise ships. So why do cruising and chocolate go together?

"Chocolate and a lot of things go together," said French-trained Master Chocolatier Norman Love, who consults on all things chocolate with Princess Cruises. "On a cruise, people are on vacation and enjoying themselves. There's also a romantic side to cruising and a romantic side to chocolate as well. Cruising and chocolate are made for each other."

The chocolate on Princess' 18 ships, whose passengers consume more than a million pounds annually, comes from cacao-bean growing countries around the world. As with wine, great fruit produces great product, with sunlight, soil and elevation factors in creating distinct chocolate flavors, Love said.

The chocolate goes into creations including those highlighted in Princess Cruises' 24-hour "Chocolate Journeys" program with Love. You can sample his 15 extravagant desserts at dinner, bites with afternoon tea, chocolate pastries at breakfast, and chocolate cookies while watching Movies Under the Stars. Or get more adventurous and have anti-oxidant chocolate smeared on your body as part of a hydrating treatment at the Lotus Spa. You can even sip loaded chocolate creations in ship bars.

"Chocolate makes people happy," Love said. "It's a wonderful, universal thing that Mother Nature creates." Americans are consuming more chocolate than ever before, Love added, whether for health benefits, with an aphrodisiac purpose in mind or just because it's so good. "It's chocolate's time right now. Chocolate is really hot," Love said.

A recent survey conducted by Wakefield Research for Princess Cruises showed more than half of U.S. adults admit to being a chocolate addict. The survey also showed 70 percent of women would choose chocolate over sex.

Holland America Line showcases high-end Belgian chocolate in cakes, muffins, custards, sauces, and cookies—and more extravagant creations by world-renowned chocolatier Jacques Torres, such as his Chocolate Coconut Napoleon and Baked Chocolate Soup. A passenger favorite is the Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake at the Pinnacle Grill. You'll also find Dutch hot chocolate served on Holland America Line ships on cool days, for instance when you're warming up after seeing the stunning sight of a glacier thunderously calving into the sea in Alaska.

Images Courtesy of Carnival Corporation

‘Countdown to Koningsdam’ Video Showcases Stateroom & Suite Accommodations

Holland America Line has debuted the fourth “Countdown to Koningsdam” video in the series that details the ship’s staterooms and suites. The short videos were created to provide updates and share the excitement as ms Koningsdam nears delivery in April 2016.

Hosted by Johnathan Rogers, Koningsdam’s inaugural cruise director, the video, “Countdown to Koningsdam Episode 4,” features Holland America Line’s Deputy Director of Interior Design My Nguyen, who takes guests inside the ship’s accommodations, including the new family and single staterooms debuting on board.

“We spent years developing and fine-tuning the design of the ship’s accommodations to ensure that our guests feel like they’re walking into a pampering and relaxing environment while they’re cruising on Koningsdam,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line’s president. “We gathered feedback from guests and travel partners about upgrades and changes they’d like to see in our staterooms, and My and her team did a fantastic job implementing many of those ideas. From the color schemes to the functionality of the layout, Koningsdam’s accommodations are the perfect home away from home.”

Koningsdam will boast more than 1,300 guest accommodations that received upgrades in both aesthetics and function. Four distinct color schemes that evoke feelings of rejuvenation identify the suite, spa, verandah, ocean-view and inside categories. Guests will enjoy redesigned headboards with USB and electrical outlets on both sides of the bed, stone tops on desks and nightstands, more storage, and improved lighting.

Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship for Holland America Line. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public spaces and venues, while still featuring popular amenities guests associate with Holland America Line. Guests will enjoy fine dining in several alternative restaurants and the ship also will feature Holland America Line’s first purpose-built staterooms for families and single staterooms among its 1,331 guest accommodations. See for yourself how beautiful and functional they will be:

Onboard entertainment will be taken to a new level with the energetic Music Walk area featuring all genres of music showcased in venues including Lincoln Center Stage, offering chamber music nightly; Billboard Onboard, where live musicians rock the crowd with chart-topping hits; and the popular B.B. King’s Blues Club in the Queen’s Lounge, bringing the best of Memphis music to sea. With the 270-degree LED projection at World Stage, new concepts for show-time performances will immerse the audience in panoramic visual and sound effects.

Image & Video Courtesy Holland America Line

Azamara Journey Gets An Upgrade

Grand  Staircase

Azamara Journey is the first of Azamara Club Cruises' two ships to undergo a "major upgrade." During a recent dry dock, the vessel was outfitted with new venues, public spaces and technologies to bring fresh services and amenities to guests.

"There is no area on the ship that has been untouched," says Larry Pimentel, President and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. "Cruise ships are like fine hotels, after wear and tear, upgrades need to be made. We can't wait to have our new and loyal guests onboard to see what we have done. It's gorgeous and provides all the modern services and amenities that today's traveler needs and demands. I think we have exceeded expectations."

As Azamara Journey emerged from dry dock, all stateroom and suites have had an overall creating an ambiance that is comfortable as well as timeless and elegant. Authentic materials were used, with beautiful stone and porcelain throughout and custom design. Two new Spa Suites have been built adjacent to the Sanctum Spa featuring an elegant look with organic and muted colors providing exclusive access to unique spa amenities that will be included in the price of these staterooms. And, the Club World Ocean and Owner's Suites have also been fully redesigned. Additionally, Azamara Journey's new dining and entertainment enhancements throughout the entire ship are revealed including makeovers to The Patio, Windows Café, Discoveries Restaurant and Discoveries Bar, the Living Room and Cabaret Lounge:

The Patio
Formerly known as the Pool Grill, The Patio is completely transformed into a sit-down al fresco dining experience. The area features tablecloths and candles in the evening creating a fresh ambiance. New lighting, ceilings and fans add modern elements to the renovated look. The décor won't be the only refresh as The Patio will also serve up a new evening menu to be enjoyed amidst oceanside backdrops in locales around the world. In the evening, interested dinner guests can occasionally enjoy a movie on the projection screen or live music alongside their meal. After dinner and a movie, travelers looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can stop by the new Swirl & Top self-serve frozen yogurt station to indulge in a variety of flavors and choice of toppings.

Windows Café
Dining offerings indoors are not overlooked as Windows Café is be reinvigorated with contemporary furniture and place settings. Tables for two will be added, allowing more options for couples or the ability to combine tables to accommodate larger parties, or to join a group of friends for a meal. For those looking to dine while watching the sunset, Windows' outdoor dining area and Sunset Bar are right out the back door, with a rejuvenated look and the same stunning views.

Discoveries Restaurant & Discoveries Bar
Discoveries Restaurant is continuing the reimagination trend. The refreshed restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere with new décor, lamps, seating, and sheers. A variety of different sized tables will be offered to accommodate groups of all sizes with ease.

Discoveries Bar will be receiving a modern makeover as well with new bar stools, sofas, chairs and tables, sheers, painting and wood trim. The bar will provide a tranquil and friendly atmosphere with a rich blend of tailored and refined elements for guests.

Living Room
Guests will feel right at home in the new and improved Living Room, formerly the Looking Glass Lounge. The relaxing area offers the comfort of a well-furnished space, featuring cozy chairs and sofas and a handcrafted wooden wine table. Passengers can sample tastes and entertainment from morning until night with the following options:

• Daytime Fare: From 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. enjoy a selection of fine teas and coffees along with delicious breakfast pastries, finger sandwiches, and sweets.
• Afternoon Delight: From 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. each day guests may choose from a variety of tasty hot and cold tapas with a mix of Spain's eclectic and sophisticated flavors. The onboard sommelier will be happy to suggest the perfect red, white, or rosé wine or champagne to pair accordingly.

A new card area with modern-inspired furniture and décor will be open for entertainment. In the evenings the Living Room will liven up into a space for dancing, karaoke or live music from one of the ship's onboard musicians followed by a house DJ, playing music to keep the party going well into the night. On occasion, specialty performances will entertain guests while other nights the Chef may surprise Living Room dwellers with delectable featured desserts. Whether stopping by for a light bite or staying for the entire evening, The Living Room serves up entertainment and culinary offerings for guests day and night.

Cabaret Lounge, Casino & Spirits
This entertainment venue is being revitalized with new carpeting, updated lighting, and a refinished dance floor. The Casino will be outfitted with new slot machines, sleek carpets, and reupholstered seating with custom-designed fabrics. Of course the Cabaret Lounge wouldn't be complete without a proper location in close proximity for a cocktail, the transformed Spirits bar will available for guests just a stone's throw away.

The Azamara Quest will enter dry dock in April 2016 in Singapore.

Image Courtesy Azamara Club Cruises

ESPN is Afloat in the Caribbean

It's football, basketball, or the season for another sport and you don't want to miss your favorite team or player in a big match-up, but you want to go on a Caribbean cruise. What are you going to do, stay home and watch on television or go on a cruise? Happily, you don't have to choose.

Beginning now through August of 2016, ESPN will provide extensive, live coverage on all major Caribbean cruise lines of the most anticipated sports events of the next year, including the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games (August 5 - 21) and the 2016 UEFA European Championship (June 10 - July 10).

While sailing the Caribbean Sea, cruisers will enjoy more than 700 live events from the most popular sports in the world, including the most followed leagues and tournaments. The network’s onboard sports programming is in full swing now.

Other upcoming events and programming highlights available across Caribbean cruise lines include:

• NFL: 41 NFL Monday Night Football games and post-season playoffs
• NBA: 45 regular season games, All-Star Weekend, the Eastern Conference Finals and the 2016 NBA Finals
• Tennis: The Grand Slam of Asia Pacific, the Australian Open 2016 Tennis Championship Tour, Jan. 18-31, from Melbourne Park, and all along the year other major events including Wimbledon, the French Open and the U.S. Open
• Rio 2016: over 200 hours of live competition plus opening and closing ceremonies, along with original programming, including the weekly Countdown to Rio
• Golf: the Masters, the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship
• NCAA Men’s & Women’s Basketball
• The ICC World T20

In addition to the live events, cruisers will also see all their favorite ESPN studio shows, including SportsCenter; Mike & Mike, Around the Horn, ESPN FC and Pardon the Interruption.

Go ahead and make your cruise reservations and start packing!

Carnival Cruise Line, Operation Homefront & Superstar Carrie Underwood Launch Honor.Family.Fun. Initiative To Support Military Families

Every time some politician or his spouse comes out in support of military families, I cringe at how shallow their efforts seem. With the exception of presidential candidate Donald Trump’s recent 6 million dollar fund raiser for vets, what do they really accomplish other than a feel-good photo op? (I’m looking at you Michelle and Dr. Jill.)

For a long time family oriented cruise lines have helped military families get away from it all with special fares to show appreciation for their sacrifice and now Carnival Cruise Line is going a step further with a new Honor.Family.Fun. initiative designed to support U.S. military families alongside GRAMMY-award winning superstar Carrie Underwood and representatives of Operation Homefront, the national nonprofit that builds strong, stable, and secure military families.

“Military families represent a cornerstone of our country and we are honored by the opportunity to partner with Carrie and Operation Homefront to bring much needed awareness and aid to our troops and their loved ones,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “The partnership will bring to life many of the heartwarming stories our troops have to share while in turn bringing them some fun along the way.”

In 10 cities along the course of Carrie Underwood’s The Storyteller Tour, which kicked off in Jacksonville, Florida on Jan 30th, military families chosen in partnership with Operation Homefront will be treated to a personal meet-and-greet with Underwood before her concerts. A video series highlighting the meet and greets and the families’ individual stories will be featured on Carnival.com. The year-long Honor.Family.Fun. program will help raise funds for Operation Homefront and culminate in a special private pierside concert for hundreds of service men and women and their families starring Underwood aboard Carnival’s newest and most family-friendly ship, the Carnival Vista, when the vessel makes its U.S. debut in New York City on Nov 4, 2016.

“I’m honored to be able to join Carnival Cruise Line and Operation Homefront to lift up these soldiers and their families,” said Underwood. “I am really looking forward to meeting them on my tour and for the opportunity to personally thank them for all they do for our freedom.”

Driving the effort to raise funds for the cause, fans of Underwood, and of the program, will have the opportunity to donate by clicking on the “Donate Now” button on Carnival.com/HonorFamilyFun. Commemorative dog tags will also be available for purchase at merchandise stands at all Storyteller Tour stops as well as on board the fleet of Carnival ships with all proceeds going to Operation Homefront.

“Carnival Cruise Line really knows what it means to support our men and women in uniform and their families,” said retired Brigadier General John I. Pray, Jr., president and CEO of Operation Homefront. “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with the Carnival team and Carrie Underwood to focus on the challenges our military families face as they work tirelessly to protect the freedoms we enjoy daily.”

In the coming weeks, Carnival will launch a new shipboard military appreciation program. Each ship will host a special event on board to recognize active and retired military personnel and their families.

We’re certain the Honor.Family.Fun. initiative will be a success and, with the support of Carnival Cruise Line and Carrie Underwood fans, perhaps they will be able to raise even more money than Donald Trump.

Carrie Underwood Photo Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Harmony of the Seas Offers More Fun For Families

No parent wants bored children on vacation. Thankfully, Royal Caribbean International understnds and is expanding family fun onboard its newest ship Harmony of the Seas. Guests setting sail aboard Harmony will be able to enjoy more family-friendly offerings than ever before, such as Royal Caribbean’s signature DreamWorks Experience, enhanced entertainment in the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, and a new collection of family amenities—two thoughtful collections of experiences that highlight what travelers tend to enjoy most on vacation: eat, play, drink—in balcony staterooms with views of the Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods. Combined with The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, The Perfect Storm trio of water slides, and Splashaway Bay interactive aqua park for kids, Harmony of the Seas will offer adventure for the entire family aboard the world’s largest cruise ship when she arrives in May 2016.

DreamWorks Animation Characters Set Sail
When Harmony of the Seas debuts in just over 100 days, she will bring with her a familiar cast of DreamWorks Animation characters including Po of Kung Fu Panda; Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots of Shrek; and from Madagascar, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, King Julien and the Penguins. Guests will enjoy events and activities based on DreamWorks Animation's popular feature-film characters, including a DreamWorks Character breakfast in the main dining room, ‘meet and greet’ experiences throughout the day, as well as photo opportunities that can be shared with family and friends back home thanks to VOOM, the fastest internet at sea.

Royal Caribbean's younger guests can enjoy a line-up of activities, from story time to dance parties, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films at the complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program. Only on Royal Caribbean, parents and kids alike can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they have guaranteed seats on “opening weekend” of highly anticipated feature films such as "Kung Fu Panda 3,” which premieres onboard the same day it does in theaters on land. Year-round, guests can watch the latest and long-term favorite DreamWorks Animation films in the ship’s 3D movie theater and on a dedicated DreamWorks TV channel in their stateroom.

Enhanced Adventure Ocean Programming
Royal Caribbean’s complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program will continue to offer young guests, ages three to eleven, an entertaining line-up of activities and games rooted in fun. New to be offered in Harmony’s Adventure Ocean Theater is Away We Go!, a black light puppet show. Additionally, programming by “Muffalo Potato”—the popular YouTube show, which teaches kids to draw anything in minutes using only letters and numbers—will round out Harmony’s lineup. Muffalo Potato originally debuted aboard Anthem of the Seas and will expand fleetwide just in time for summer vacations, starting with Harmony of the Seas.

New Family Amenities for Central Park & Boardwalk Staterooms
Families vacationing together on Harmony of the Seas, as well as Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, will have a new collection of added benefits to balcony staterooms overlooking the Central Park and Boardwalk outdoor neighborhoods. Starting in November 2016, the views will be enhanced with amenities that feature the best of what each neighborhood has to offer. Guests with views of Central Park—the design in which the center of the ship opens to the sky and features tropical grounds spanning the length of a football field—will enjoy lunch for two at Jamie’s Italian on Harmony of the Seas or Giovanni’s Table onboard Oasis and Allure of the Seas; a complimentary bottle of red wine upon arrival; and special perks in the Casino Royale. Guests with Boardwalk views—a neighborhood inspired by the boardwalks of yesteryear—will receive lunch or dinner for four at Johnny Rockets, a family favorite featuring old-fashioned burgers and fries; a soda beverage package for two; and private time on the cruise line’s 38-foot tall rock wall.

Harmony of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, will span 16 guest decks, encompass 227,000 gross registered tons, carry 5,497 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,747 staterooms. The Oasis-class features Royal Caribbean's exclusive seven neighborhood concept, including Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone.

Harmony of the Seas Image Courtesy Royal Caribbean International

Princess Cruises Makes “The Come Back New Promise”

We vacation for a variety of reasons, but relaxation, rejuvenation, and new experiences are high on nearly every vacationers’ wish list. To help us achieve our cruise vacation goals, Princess Cruises has made “The Come Back New Promise”—a $450 million multi-year product innovation and cruise ship renovation campaign that will continue to enhance their guests’ onboard experience. These enhancements will result in more transformative moments, lifetime memories, and meaningful stories for guests to share from their cruise vacation.

“Our promise is to provide guests transformative moments designed to inspire them to discover the world and themselves, ultimately allowing us to declare that a cruise isn’t good enough unless you ‘come back new,’” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president.

The campaign demonstrates a commitment by Princess Cruises to exceed guest expectations while continuously improving upon and delivering a high value cruise vacation experience that inspires guests to return and introduce cruising to their family and friends. Recently, Princess introduced new initiatives inspired to deliver The Come Back New Promise which further elevate the line’s wellness, culinary/dining experiences and expands the partnership with Discovery Communications. They include:

• Chef Curtis Stone: a partnership with award-winning chef, author, and restaurateur Curtis Stone brings guests new culinary creations. All Princess ships will feature “Crafted by Curtis” menu items in the main dining room, while on select ships guests will enjoy “SHARE” a new specialty restaurant that will include a new Chef’s Table experience designed by Stone.
• The Princess Luxury Bed: featuring a new specially designed bed to deliver the ultimate night of sleep at sea, the Princess Luxury Bed was developed in collaboration with experts in both the science and beauty of sleep—Dr. Michael Breus, “The Sleep Doctor,” and highly acclaimed designer, Candice Olson, star of popular HGTV shows—Princess is installing more than 44,000 new beds, to every stateroom, across the fleet through 2018.
• The Salty Dog Gastropub: a new dining option which highlights a variety of small bites inspired by pub favorites, adapted for an upscale culinary experience. Developed in collaboration with Ernesto Uchimura, a founding chef of the Umami Burger, guests will also enjoy a variety of beer, whiskey, and cocktail selections. Currently available on select ships.
• Style at Sea with TLC: What to pack, what to wear and how to look stylish are just a few of the many questions guests ask when preparing for a cruise vacation. With the help of TLC’s fashion expert Stacy London, Style at Sea with TLC will provide tips and tricks to help guests feel and look their best while aboard a cruise.

Image Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Holland America Line Unveils Unique Libations

DeGroff prepares a Ritz Cocktail

My preference is a Vodka Martini shaken, but I'm always up for trying new cocktails—especially if they feature rum. Whether you like your drinks on the rocks, straight up, shaken, or stirred, Holland America Line's new partnership with 2015 James Beard Who's Who Inductee and Master Mixologist Dale DeGroff brings an innovative menu of creative cocktails to the premium cruise line. DeGroff's creations will debut aboard ms Eurodam this month and will expand fleetwide by springtime.

Continuing Holland America Line's commitment to offer an exceptional food and beverage experience, DeGroff—known as "King Cocktail," author of two best-selling cocktail books, and founding president of The Museum of the American Cocktail—has developed a drink menu to showcase artfully prepared signature classics as well as some unique originals.

"For many guests, there's nothing better than relaxing with a well-made, unique cocktail after a long day of sightseeing or before dinner, and adding a master mixologist to our team gives us the diversity we seek in creating the most robust food and beverage program at sea," said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line's president. "We're excited to welcome the talents of Dale DeGroff to our family, and we know our guests are going to enjoy his innovative creations."

DeGroff's signature cocktails will be served in the Gallery Bar, introduced on ms Eurodam following a December 2015 drydock, and in other shipboard bars and lounges, including Ocean Bar, Explorer's Lounge, Crow's Nest, and Tamarind Bar, as well as more casual outlets such as the Lido pool bar. His creations will be served fleetwide by spring 2016.

DeGroff's cocktail menu includes the Gallery Gimlet, Hemingway Daiquiri, Yuzu Margarita, The Ritz Cocktail, Whiskey and Joe, Another Shade of Greyhound, and a "Slightly Less Than Perfect" Perfect Manhattan. Many of these drinks have a storied past. The Hemingway Daiquiri is a unique spin off of Hemingway's favorite drink, the Papa Doble. The Ritz Cocktail is a dazzling champagne cocktail presented with a burst of flamed orange peel and was one of the most popular drinks at the legendary Rainbow Room where DeGroff created it as a tribute to the Ritz cocktails of Paris and Madrid. In addition to creating exclusive cocktails for all Holland America Line bars, DeGroff also will oversee staff training to ensure his signature cocktails will be crafted to perfection.

Image Courtesy Holland America Line

Norwegian Cruise Line Goes Over The Edge

Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed The Norwegian Edge™, an innovative program that promises to introduce a new standard of excellence that encompasses the entire guest experience, from ship hardware upgrades to culinary enhancements and exclusive private destination developments. The Norwegian Edge™ reflects a significant two-year $400 million investment by the company through 2017 and demonstrates the line’s commitment to exceptional quality and extraordinary experiences. The centerpiece of the program is an extensive ship refurbishment initiative that will elevate the experience on board the Norwegian fleet to this new standard.

“Norwegian has a long history of investing in its fleet to offer guests the latest and greatest innovations, but the investment to raise our ships to The Norwegian Edge™ standard of excellence takes it to new levels,” said Andy Stuart, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief operating officer.

Fleet Enhancements
The extensive ship revitalization program at the heart of The Norwegian Edge will completely transform many spaces on board nine of the fleet’s ships to reflect the premium look and feel of the line’s newest ships. As the cruise line with the youngest fleet in North America, this extensive enhancement program will offer much more than the traditional soft goods décor updates and serve to make the line’s ships into essentially new vessels.

The refurbishment program began in October 2015 with a full refresh of Norwegian Epic that included the debut of brand new venues like The Cavern Club; complete restaurant makeovers in La Cucina and a new look for Cagney’s, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, The Manhattan Room and the Garden Café, now with a sleek and crisp white palette; and refreshed décor, furniture and flooring in many public spaces, including The Haven Courtyard, Lounge and Restaurant, for a more modern and clean design.

Norwegian Gem followed in November, debuting significant enhancements including a complete makeover of Bliss Lounge; extensive interior refurbishments; refreshing of décor including new furniture and new flooring in all specialty restaurants and several complimentary outlets, as well as bars and lounges, to reflect a more contemporary look; new pool deck furniture; interactive digital signage and wayfinding technology; new teak flooring throughout outdoor spaces and corridors of upper decks; and upgrades to The Haven Courtyard and Sundeck with a new look including more shaded areas, cabanas and lounge chairs.

Throughout the course of the refurbishment program, a total of seven additional ships will go into dry dock for both guest-facing and technical enhancements: Pride of America and Norwegian Sun in spring 2016; Norwegian Dawn in summer 2016; Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sky, and Norwegian Pearl in winter 2017; and Norwegian Jade in spring 2017.

Culinary Program
As the innovator of freedom at sea with no set dining times and up to 28 dining options per vessel, Norwegian understands that dining is central to guests’ vacation experience. Therefore, the line is continuing to expand investment in the onboard culinary program, to create exceptional experiences

New for 2016, all ships in Norwegian’s fleet now offer upgraded complimentary dining room menus and the addition of optional à la carte priced items in the main dining rooms, such as grilled lobster tails and surf and turf entrees, providing guests additional choices and tastes to create their ultimate dining experience. The new complimentary dining menus offer an increased variety—featuring appetizers, soups and salads, featured entrees, and desserts—and have been carefully developed by Norwegian’s culinary team with a focus on balancing popular traditional dishes like prime rib, chateaubriand, rack of lamb, and escargot with current dining trends and heightened guest expectations. New offerings include more seafood selections such as fresh grouper, along with contemporary dishes like shrimp ceviche, seared Atlantic scallops with fennel puree, and braised beef short ribs.

Beginning Jan 31st, Norwegian will also expand the new specialty dining menus that debuted on Norwegian Escape across the fleet. The introduction of these new enhanced menus at the line’s signature specialty restaurants—Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and La Cucina—along with new offerings at Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki, will elevate guests dining experience with more options. The menus include traditional French favorites at Le Bistro such as Bouillabaisse, pan-seared jumbo bay scallops and veal medallions with sauce morrel, and a more robust menu at La Cucina featuring antipasti, risotto, and traditional secondi courses like Osso Buco alla Milanese or pan-seared sea bass filet. These new menus will be offered on Norwegian Breakaway as of Jan 31; Norwegian Getaway on Feb 14; Norwegian Epic on March 6; Pride of America after her dry dock on March 15; Norwegian Gem on April 1; and Norwegian Dawn after her dry dock in June.

In addition to the new menus, Norwegian is also further expanding training and certification for the fleet’s culinary and dining teams. All Executive Chefs, Executive Sous Chefs, and other culinary staff are certified by American Culinary Federation, the premier professional chefs’ organization in North America. In addition to excellence in the kitchen, the line is working toward a certified service training program and three new training and development centers have opened across the globe to help train crew members prior to boarding ships, so they are immediately able to provide excellent service as soon as they step onboard. Guests should also expect to see the expansion of popular existing partnerships with culinary experts for food and beverage outlets on board. More details and specific information will be shared closer to each ship’s dry dock date.

Destination Experiences
Norwegian has further expanded plans for the line’s privately-owned destinations including the development of the Caribbean’s premier resort-style experience at Harvest Caye, Belize. This resort-style port of call will feature an expansive pool, exclusive beach, shallow lagoon for watersports, private luxury cabanas and many more exciting features, all in the richest ecosystems in the region with a diversity of flora and fauna that is core to the Harvest Caye experience.

Considerable new features are also in store for the line’s private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay. The island was recently enhanced in 2014 and will debut several new offerings and high quality amenities for guests by spring 2017. Specific details will be announced later this year, and guests should expect to find experiences on the island that complement those found on board Norwegian’s ships, including private spaces, luxury relaxation areas, multiple food and beverage outlets, and interactive activities.

Image Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruise Lines to Bypass Turkish Ports

Cruise lines are altering their itineraries and dropping Turkish ports in their Eastern Mediterranean itineraries following the recent terrorist attack in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet Square and other unrest in Turkey. Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Azamara Club Cruises have all announced plans to call elsewhere—substituting Athens, Greece and Greek Isles seems to be the most popular alternative. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises has canceled overnight calls in Istanbul and will add other ports as replacements.

The most recent announcement comes from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings:

"At Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, our primary concern is to ensure the safety and security of our guests and crew. Due to recent events in Turkey, we are suspending all calls to the country through 2016 across all NCLH brands. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and make future itinerary adjustments as appropriate. We have begun the process of informing guests booked on the affected cruises of the itinerary changes and will update the respective brand websites with revised voyage information."

Other cruise lines are closely monitoring the events in Turkey and will make itinerary changes as necessary. Turkish ports are some of the most historically important in the world and, hopefully, the situation in the country will improve and ships will begin calling there again.

Photo © Linda Coffman, CruiseDiva.com

Winter Storm Causes Royal Caribbean Ship Arrival Delays

Is it snowing at your house? Surprisingly, here in the south we've had what the weather people term a "snow shower" and we awoke to a winter wonderland. It's not much accumulation and will no doubt all melt as the day warms up.

Up north, however, things are far worse. Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas are delaying their arrival and turnaround in northeastern homeports by a full day each.

Grandeur of the Seas will arrive in Baltimore and turn around on Monday, instead of Sunday, and Anthem of the Seas will delay its arrival and turnaround at Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ until Tuesday, instead of Monday.

What that means is that passengers now on the ships will have an extra day added on board and passengers anticipating the next cruise will have their voyages shortened by a day. Royal Caribbean is notifying booked passengers about the delayed departures and is working on revised itineraries. No doubt they will offer some compensation for the shortened sailings.

Image Courtesy Royal Caribbean International

Majesty of the Seas Not As "Majestic" As Planned

Six months ago Royal Caribbean announced that A Refurbished Majesty of the Seas is to Remain in the Royal Caribbean Fleet and that hasn't changed. However, a recent email from Royal Caribbean customer relations contained a "downgrade" of sorts in the refurbishment plans.

The following statement from customer relations is sure to upset some loyal cruisers, especially those families with children, who are planning on sailing in just a few short months from now:

"Some adjustments have been made to the initial plans for the upcoming revitalization of the Majesty of the Seas.

As of this time, there are no longer plans to add the specialty dining venues Sabor and Izumi, the DreamWorks Experience, or a waterslide. We apologize for any disappointment this may cause. However, the revitalization will include VOOM WiFi, poolside movie screen, family jacuzzis, and an update to the casino."

Unfortunately, there there has never been any way to "fix" the teeny tiny cabins on the Majesty of the Seas and the omission of some new features—especially the ones most attractive for children and foodies—will certainly be a disappointment to passengers who've already booked and were looking forward to experiencing them.

Image: Royal Caribbean International

Dutch Masterpieces Head to Sea With Holland America Line

Holland America Line's OosterdamOne of the world’s most impressive art collections is housed in the Netherlands so it's no surprise that Holland America Line is celebrating its Dutch heritage in a new partnership with Rijksmuseum, the country’s most-visited national museum. Through the collaboration, the “Rijksmuseum at Sea” created by Rijksstudio will be installed on ms Oosterdam during its scheduled dry dock in April 2016 and then move fleetwide over the next several years. The line has also become a new sponsor of the Rijksmuseum.

Reproductions of some of the museum’s most famous masterpieces will be showcased throughout the ship and a dedicated space onboard will invite guests to explore their own creativity through guided art workshops. Guests will be able to view videos about the museum and its collections on the in-stateroom television, while enrichment programs and presentations by Rijksmuseum staff will be available on select cruises. Guests also will have the opportunity to purchase special branded Rijksmuseum merchandise in the onboard shops.

“Great works of art have always been the centerpiece of our onboard décor, and we’re excited that this partnership with Rijksmuseum will add some spectacular reproductions to our collection of more than 1,300 pieces fleetwide,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line’s president. “Through art, like travel, we see things differently; we open our eyes to the world around us and see things we may never have experienced before.”

Rijksmuseum was founded in The Hague, the Netherlands, in 1800 and offers a representation of Dutch art and history, as well as European and Asian art from the Middle Ages to today. Rijksmuseum moved to Amsterdam in 1808 and was first located in the Royal Palace; it moved to its current location in 1885. In 2003, the main museum closed for a 10 year renovation and reopened in April 2013. Today the museum hosts nearly 2.5 million visitors. Rijksmuseum has a collection of a million objects dating back to 1200, with 8,000 works currently on display. Guests visiting the museum can see masterpieces by Dutch painters including Rembrandt, Frans Hals, Johannes Vermeer, and Jan Steen.

Oosterdam Image © CruiseDiva.com

Whatever Happened to Norwegian's Harvest Caye?

It's been more than two years since Norwegian Cruise Line announced plans to develop Harvest Caye, an Eco-Friendly Destination in Belize, for their passengers' enjoyment.

Since that announcement in August 2013, the destination was added to itineraries, but very little has been revealed about Norwegian's progress, which has apparently been stalled by the Belize government. It appears that things are finally moving along as we received the following update from Norwegian:

"Norwegian Cruise Line is developing the Caribbean's premier destination experience at Harvest Caye, Belize. This spectacular resort-style port of call will feature an expansive pool, exclusive beach, shallow lagoon for watersports, private luxury cabanas and many more exciting features. We are dedicated to delivering the highest quality amenities and services to our guests in one of the richest ecosystems in the region with a diversity of flora and fauna that is core to the Harvest Caye experience. As a result, the grand opening of Harvest Caye will take place in November 2016. Guests sailing on Western Caribbean cruises now through mid-November will enjoy the beauty, adventure and rich history of this country with a call in Belize City.

Further details on the destination and the experiences will be revealed in early 2016 and we look forward to welcoming our guests to Harvest Caye this fall. A communication to booked guests will be sent later this week with revised itinerary details."

Rendering of the Development Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Carnival Inspiration Renovation To Add New Features

Carnival Cruise Line’s twenty-year-old Carnival Inspiration is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar makeover that will add a wide range of new dining and bar innovations next month. Previously seen only on newer fleetmates, the new features will be added to the 2,052-passenger Fantasy-class Inspiration during a three-week dry dock taking place in Portland, Oregon, Jan. 18 to Feb. 5, 2016. Following the renovation, the ship will resume its year-round schedule of 3- and 4-day Baja cruises from Long Beach, California.

Here’s a look at the new options that will be added to Carnival Inspiration:

• Guy’s Burger Joint, a free-of-charge poolside venue developed in partnership with Food Network personality Guy Fieri serving hand-crafted burgers and fresh-cut fries enjoyed amidst a décor that celebrates the chef’s California roots and love of car culture
• BlueIguana Cantina, a complimentary poolside Mexican eatery where guests can enjoy authentic, freshly made burritos and tacos on homemade tortillas, as well as an elaborate toppings and salsa bar
• RedFrog Rum Bar, a poolside watering hole offering the quintessential Caribbean vacation vibe with refreshing Caribbean rum-based frozen drinks and beers, including Carnival’s own private label draught brew, ThirstyFrog Red
• Alchemy Bar, a vintage-themed “cocktail pharmacy”-themed lounge with mixologists who “prescribe” concoctions from different elixirs and ingredients with creative monikers like Forty is the New Twenty and The Restorative Basil Drop
• BlueIguana Tequila Bar, a fun and festive outdoor bar offering a laid-back Mexican-themed atmosphere and tequila-based frozen drinks and beers, perfect for chillin’ by the pool
• Cherry On Top, the “sweetest spot on board” which celebrates the joys of simple indulgences with bins of bulk candy, fun fanciful gifts and novelties, custom apparel and more

In addition to these new spaces, guests sailing aboard Carnival Inspiration can check out the ship’s massive WaterWorks aqua park featuring a 300-foot-long Twister slide and a kiddie splash zone, a 24-hour pizzeria, full casino gambling, a 12,000-square-foot Spa Carnival health and wellness center, and the Serenity adults-only retreat.

On its year-round short cruise program from Long Beach, Carnival Inspiration departs every Friday on 3-day cruises to Ensenada and every Monday on 4-day cruises to Ensenada and Catalina Island.

Image Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

Star Wars Day at Sea is Celebrated on Select Disney Fantasy Sailings

This year the Force is with Disney Cruise Line guests as they celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga during a brand-new, day-long celebration aboard eight special sailings on the Disney Fantasy: Star Wars Day at Sea. Marking the first official appearance of the heroes and villains of Star Wars aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. Star Wars Day at Sea combines the power of the Force, the magic of Disney and the excitement of cruising for an out-of-this-galaxy experience unlike any other.

Occurring one day during each of eight Disney Fantasy sailings, Star Wars Day at Sea transports guests to a galaxy far, far away—in the Western Caribbean. The event features a full day of Star Wars celebrations, including a deck party, meet-and-greets with favorite characters, Star Wars-themed family and youth activities, unique food and beverage offerings, and special merchandise. Also featured are exclusive at-sea screenings of all seven Star Wars films and the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.

Throughout the day, Star Wars Younglings, Padawans, and Jedi Masters alike can enjoy the immersive entertainment. Intergalactic highlights include:

Force-filled Fun for Everyone

• Darth Vader, Captain Phasma, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, Boba Fett, Darth Maul, Stormtroopers and other characters from across the Star Wars galaxy are onboard for meet-and-greets, photos and may be seen patrolling the decks.
• “Star Wars Saga: Tales from a Galaxy Far, Far Away” is an interactive participation show featuring guests retelling their favorite Star Wars stories, with the help of props and special effects.
• Kids and families enjoy friendly competition during Star Wars trivia games, putting their knowledge of the film and television sagas to the test.
• Guests are encouraged to bring their costumes and cosplay and participate in the costume celebration held in the ship’s atrium.

At noon, guests on deck will be treated to a very special episode—to mark the midday, the Disney Fantasy ship’s horn will resound the opening notes of the “Imperial March.” In the evening, The Tube nightclub transports adult guests to another galaxy with Star Wars-themed specialty cocktails, lively cantina music and a super fan trivia challenge.

Younglings Use Their Power

• In “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” Force-sensitive children to learn the ways of the Jedi and put their skills to the test in a final battle with the Sith Lord, Darth Vader.
• In “Padawan Mind Challenge,” Younglings participate in a fun, brain-bending battle of wits and trivia to become mind challenge masters.
• Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, games and activities are offered throughout the day in Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab youth clubs.

Star Wars Deck Party & Fireworks
The day concludes with more intergalactic fun when the “Summon the Force” deck party blasts off to an exciting evening filled with music, dancing and games. The party culminates as Star Wars characters converge for a celebration of the saga in an epic show featuring special effects and guest participation. The grand finale is a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and a medley of Star Wars music.

Merchandise, Food & Beverage
Event merchandise exclusive to Star Wars Day at Sea is available on each sailing, including a range of collectible items, customizable nametags and eight special trading pins—one for each of the Star Wars Day at Sea cruises. An epic day is not complete without a feast for the palate so the dinner menu includes creative fare such as Sand People salad, Bantha steak empanadas, Opee Sea Killer shrimp cocktail and Qui-Gon’s crisp chicken. Sweet endings complete the meal with Calrissian velvet cake, Cloud City macarons and a frozen carbonite sundae. Specialty Star Wars-themed beverages include the colorful Galaxy in a Glass made with rum, coconut, mango and strawberry and a non-alcoholic Planetoid Punch. For sipping, there are non-alcoholic beverages in collectible cups like a BB-8 sipper and Chewbacca stein and for snacking popcorn is served in containers themed to Darth Vader’s helmet or a tie fighter.

Film Screenings
Guests can watch all seven films in the Star Wars saga and follow Darth Vader, Luke, Leia, Han Solo, Rey and Finn along their epic journey. Also showing are episodes of the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.

Star Wars Day at Sea is already underway on Disney Fantasy cruises sailing on Jan. 9, 23; Feb. 6, 20; March 5, 19; April 2 and 16, 2016. Departing from Port Canaveral, the 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.

Image Courtesy Disney Cruise Line

All the World's a Stage in Holland America Line's 'Countdown to Koningsdam' Video

As the launch of their newest flagship approaches, Holland America Line has debuted the third in a series of "Countdown to Koningsdam" videos that details the ship's The World Stage main theater. The short videos were created to ramp up anticipation and provide updates as ms Koningsdam nears delivery in April 2016. Hosted by Johnathan Rogers, Koningsdam's inaugural cruise director, the third video, "Countdown to Koningsdam: Episode 3," features Holland America Line's Director of Entertainment Bill Prince, who takes guests on an entertainment extravaganza (below) in the ship's main theater that surrounds the audience with a 270-degree LED projection.

"Entertainment is a huge part of the cruise experience, and with Koningsdam we're taking that experience to a whole new level and trying things that have never been seen on our ships before," said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line's president. "The newest 'Countdown to Koningsdam' video provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The World Stage, and we can't wait to share all of the innovative new shows we're producing exclusively for this venue."

At two stories high and 250 feet long, the high-definition LED screens will make The World Stage a trend-setting theater at sea capable of showcasing an exciting array of performances and productions. Enhanced by state-of-the-art lighting, projection and sound systems, the screens enable the environment of The World Stage to change throughout the day to present anything designers can imagine. For example, the room can evolve effortlessly from an Italian palazzo for a concert performance to an imaginary world for innovative production numbers.

Each "Countdown to Koningsdam" video features one of the ship's officers or a Holland America Line executive who shares ongoing developments onboard the line's newest vessel, currently under construction at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard in Italy. Future videos include Deputy Director of Interior Operations My Nguyen chatting about the ship's staterooms, including the new family and single options; Senior Vice President of Guest Experience Product Development Michael Smith, who will reveal details about The Dining Room; and Director Mariner Society Gerald Bernhoft speaking about the perks of Holland America Line's loyalty program.

Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle Class of ship for Holland America Line. The vessel will debut several innovative concepts and new public spaces and venues, while still featuring popular amenities guests associate with Holland America Line. Guests will enjoy fine dining in several alternative restaurants including Sel de Mer, a new French seafood brasserie; an immersive farm-to-table concept dinner experience in the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine; a redesigned Lido Market with themed serving stations; a stunning main dining room; and favorites such as Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto Italian restaurant and pan-Asian Tamarind. The ship also will feature Holland America Line's first purpose-built staterooms for families and single staterooms among its accommodations for 2,650 guests.

Onboard entertainment will be taken to a new level with the energetic Music Walk area featuring all genres of music showcased in venues including Lincoln Center Stage, offering chamber music nightly; Billboard Onboard, where live musicians rock the crowd with chart-topping hits; and the popular B.B. King's Blues Club in the Queen's Lounge, bringing the best of Memphis music to sea. With the 270-degree LED projection at World Stage, new concepts for show-time performances will immerse the audience in panoramic visual and sound effects.

Video Courtesy Holland America Line

Gourmet Explorer Tours Offered Exclusively for Seven Seas Explorer Voyages

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has unveiled a collection of exclusive culinary-inspired shore excursions for Seven Seas Explorer’s inaugural Mediterranean season set to launch on July 20, 2016.

Part of the Regent Choice Shore Excursion program, these new Gourmet Explorer Tours are designed for guests seeking unique, one-of-a-kind epicurean adventures ashore to complement the unrivaled culinary experiences found  on board, which are highlighted by an array of exquisite gourmet restaurants and the hands-on Culinary Arts Kitchen.

This new collection of Gourmet Explorer Tours will enhance and expand upon the curriculum offered at the Culinary Arts Kitchen aboard the ship by providing adventures that allow guests to explore the destination and local culture through its epicurean offerings. To mirror the superb guest service found aboard the ship, each Gourmet Explorer Tour will be accompanied by the chef instructor from the Culinary Arts Kitchen and a local guide, often a chef, with intimate knowledge of the region’s agriculture, wine and cuisine, to add an extra layer of authenticity to this immersive culinary experience.

“Our Gourmet Explorer Tours were specifically designed to match the unrivaled level of guest experience found on board Seven Seas Explorer,” said Jason Montague, president and chief operating officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “We have created an unbelievable collection of culinary-inspired tours where our guests can partake in true once-in-a-lifetime epicurean experiences. Our tours were expertly crafted to provide our guests with unique opportunities to dine at a highly coveted and world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, visit iconic markets and palatial vineyard estate homes, and learn from some of Europe’s premier chefs with personalized, hands-on instruction.”

Each Gourmet Explorer Tour was handcrafted by the line’s Executive Director of Culinary Enrichment, Chef Kathryn Kelly. In preparing the tours, Kelly partnered with a vast network of Michelin-starred chefs and local culinary experts to bring Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ guests the finest array of culinary experiences available for each destination. The resulting tours are both luxurious in nature and distinctly authentic to the region’s culinary heritage.

In total, 22 Gourmet Explorer Tours have been developed for Seven Seas Explorer’s upcoming Mediterranean season, with several ultra-premium experiences that are simply unavailable to anyone except guests sailing on Seven Seas Explorer. A few these ultra-exclusive Gourmet Explorer Tours include:

· Sorrento, Italy – Become immersed in the unique cuisine of Campagnia by making cheese at the artisanal fromagerie, watching a culinary demonstration by a master chef, and wining and dining amid the luxury gardens of the stunning Don Alfonso.
· Monte Carlo, Monaco – Wine tasting at Cave Bianchi in Nice followed by dinner at the famed La Chèvre d’Or restaurant highlight a special night out with fellow foodies. Guests gain an appreciation for local and traditionally-inspired dishes hand-selected for the evening affair.
· Saint Tropez, France – Bask in an evening of ultimate gourmand indulgence on the luxurious French Riviera. Taste three Provence varietals at the famed La Croix winery, and then enjoy a gourmet dining experience at the renowned La Vague d’Or, a Michelin 3-star restaurant in the heart of Saint Tropez.
· Barcelona, Spain – Enjoy the gloriously rich Catalan culinary scene with guided strolls through the famed Boqueria and Santa Caterina markets, followed by an unforgettable lunch and kitchen tour from Chef Jordi Cruz at ABaC, a famed 2-star Michelin restaurant.
· Corfu, Greece – Guests receive a shopping assignment and gather produce, cheeses and specialties at Old Town’s Corfiot Market. Sample gelato, local wine, fresh-baked bread and the traditional “bourdetto” stew before returning to the Culinary Arts Kitchen for a Greek cooking class.
· Palamos, Spain – For an intimate look at this beguiling region, guests enjoy a tasting at an artisanal olive oil producer before enjoying a cooking demonstration and 7-course tasting menu luncheon in the magical, stone-walled village of Madremanya.
· Taormina, Sicily – Guests visit the renowned fish and produce market in Catania, learn to make delicious cannolis from a pastry master, and enjoy lunch and a cooking demonstration at a famed Taormina restaurant specializing in slow food.
· Livorno, Italy – Enjoy a truly authentic food and wine experience in the Tuscan countryside, with a cooking demonstration and sumptuous lunch–with wines–at Villa Dianella. Guests have time to wander through the stalls at Il Mercato Centrale and marvel at artisanal cheeses and meats, fresh fish, seasonal produce, and breads.

“We are creating something truly special and sure to be enjoyed by both die-hard foodies and peripheral fans of the culinary arts,” said Kelly. “With our Gourmet Explorer Tours we have an incredibly diverse array of options for our guests, ranging from the crème-de-la-crème of luxury with our day in Saint Tropez to a more casual farm-to-table experience in Greece. I cannot wait to begin!”

Whether shopping for preserved lemons in the Central Market of Casablanca or immersed in an artisanal olive oil tasting in Catalonia, Spain, each tour provides an intimate behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world’s most captivating cuisines. Many of the tours include personalized instruction back on board at one of the 18 individual cooking stations in the Culinary Arts Kitchen.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the only line to offer free unlimited shore excursions in every port-of-call in every destination. For intrepid guests who wish to delve deeper into a region’s culture and history, Gourmet Explorer Tours are offered at as part of Regent Choice Shore Excursion packages. Gourmet Explorer Tours are available starting at a nominal $79 per person and ranging up to $799 per person.

Images Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

New Cruise Ships For 2016

It's 2016 and the beginning of "Wave Season"—the time of year when winter doldrums set in and it's time to think of warm sea breezes and booking a cruise.

2016 will see the introduction of ships that are first in their "classes" as well as some that follow a familiar profile.

Starting with the launch of Holland America Line's Koningsdam (pictured above) in April and wrapping up with the introduction in December of Seabourn Encore, Cruise Diva is happy to introduce you to the New Ships For 2016.

Image Courtesy Holland America Line