Cunard’s Queen Victoria Welcomes Famed Boston Chef Todd English during Maiden Call to His Native City

As part of her Autumn Colours voyage, which features maiden calls through the New England and Canada coasts, Cunard’s Queen Victoria made her inaugural visit to Boston yesterday. Joining the festivities was celebrity chef Todd English, whose at-sea eponymously named restaurants are exclusively featured aboard both Queen Victoria and flagship Queen Mary 2. Local dignitaries, including British Consul-General Phil Budden, were among the guests who enjoyed a sumptuous lunch prepared by the native Boston chef in his onboard restaurant.

“It’s a privilege for me to welcome Queen Victoria to my city,” said English. “To have my Todd English restaurants–the only at sea–aboard Cunard’s legendary liners is truly an honor for me.”

“It is a pleasure to bring Queen Victoria into Boston for her inaugural visit, a city with which Cunard shares a great history – welcoming us and our guests so warmly for many years,” said Queen Victoria’s Master, Captain Ian McNaught. “We continue to provide our guests with legendary voyages and historic ports of call, and Boston is always a highlight,” he added.

For more information about Cunard and to book a voyage aboard Queen Victoria or Queen Mary 2, consult your Travel Professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD or go to Cunard.com.

Pictured above: Captain Ian McNaught, Master of Queen Victoria, and celebrity chef Todd English

MSC Cruises Offers Special ‘Winter Getaway’ Rates On Select Caribbean Sailings

With the arrival of autumn comes falling leaves, chilling temperatures, and thoughts of warm tropical sunshine. If you're looking for a getaway during the upcoming winter months, you can save more than 60 percent off retail rates on select 7-night sailings of MSC Poesia to the warm Caribbean. Special cruise-only “Winter Getaway” rates begin at $399 per person, double occupancy, on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of the U.S. and Canada. The limited-time “Winter Getaway” rates are available on the following itineraries, all sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida:

“Eastern Caribbean Enchantment:” Jan. 9, 23 and 30; calling at San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas; rates begin at $399.

“Island Treasures & Ancient Temples” and “Baseball Greats:” Jan. 16 and Feb. 6; calling at Key West, Florida; Playa del Carmen, Mexico; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Nassau; rates begin at $469.

The “Winter Getaway” offer is available on new bookings made by Oct 31. Kids under the age of 17 sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults (government fees and taxes for all guests are additional). All cruises offer just a $100 deposit on all sailings and itineraries. For more information about MSC Cruises, visit MSC Cruises USA or a local travel professional.

Holland America Line Launches New Mariner Society Loyalty Program

As a Holland America Line Mariner who just earned her first award--a lovely enameled pin--I've always been appreciative of Mariner Society perks. For those who have sailed even just once with Holland America Line, there's now more to enjoy on future cruises. The new Mariner Society Rewards Program provides past guests with exciting new benefits from generous onboard discounts while sailing and special rates on select cruises to reduced or free third and fourth rates when booking future cruises. Benefits are tiered and vary based on a guest's cruise history.

"We wanted to create a program that gives our loyal Mariner members fantastic perks, cruise values and enhances that sense of pride they feel after having sailed on several cruises with Holland America Line," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "We have one of the highest repeat guest ratios in the cruise industry and our loyal guests deserve the valuable benefits in our new Mariner Society Rewards Program."

The Mariner Society Rewards Program offers a 4-level progressive membership with a wide range of cruise and on-board savings and extra values. All guests who sail with Holland America Line are automatically welcomed into the Mariner Society where they receive special offers on upcoming cruises as well as advance information about new ships and the latest product enhancements. On my latest HAL cruise aboard Westerdam, Mariner Society members enjoyed a recognition brunch with the Captain and his senior officers.

Based on past cruises recorded as cruise days, members now enjoy Star memberships with four different levels offering an ever-widening range of cruise options and enhancements. Guests automatically collect additional "cruise days" or cruise day credits based on their onboard spending or through the purchase of one of the premium line's suite options.

Star Mariner: Guests who complete their initial cruise with Holland America Line are automatically enrolled in the Mariner Society's first level, earning cruise days towards future cruises and an exclusive collectable gift. Among the features of Star Mariner status: special offers on select sailings, 50 percent discount for third and fourth guests on select sailings, hosted sailings with Holland America Line Ambassadors, a relaxing Welcome Back Embarkation Brunch on future cruises, a subscription to the Mariner Magazine and a Mariner Champagne Brunch on future cruises.

Two-Star Mariner: After 30 cruise day credits earned, Two-Star guests receive all the amenities of a Star Mariner plus shopping discounts, featuring 15 percent off merchandise purchased from ShopHollandAmerica.com and 10 percent off logo apparel items onboard in the gift shops. Two-Star Mariners also will receive a complimentary ship photo and be sent an exclusive annual cruise planner and special recognition pin.

Three-Star Mariner: With 75 cruise days earned, Three-Star guests automatically are given all Two-Star amenities plus generous new discounts including 10 percent off on select spa treatments; a 25 percent discount on all wine packages, mini-bar purchases, Explorations Cafe drinks and alternative restaurant surcharges; special advanced notice of new itineraries; and a waiver of air deviation fees.

Four-Star Mariner: At the top of the tiers, with 200 cruise days earned, Four-Star guests enjoy the benefits of all Star levels below and the bonus of free fare for third and fourth guests on select sailings; complimentary wine tasting and laundry/pressing; a 50 percent discount on all wine packages, mini-bar purchases, Explorations Cafe drinks and alternative restaurant surcharges; a 15 percent discount on logo apparel items onboard in the gift shops; priority tender service and check-in; priority shore excursion pre-booking; and a free subscription to Food and Wine magazine or Travel + Leisure magazine.

The new Mariner Society Rewards Program will roll out to the entire fleet by Oct 18, 2009. For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit HollandAmerica.com.

Guess the Name of Seabourn’s New Yacht and Win a Cruise

Are you good at guessing games? Do you have a heightened sense of intuition or clairvoyance? If so, you could win a complimentary 7-day cruise for two during the maiden year of Seabourn’s third new ultra luxury yacht, just by guessing the name the vessel will be given when she is launched in June 2011.

Use your imagination–or even a crystal ball–to win a free week-long cruise aboard the next generation of ultra luxury cruising vessel. Like the other yachts in the Seabourn fleet, their new sister will have the first name Seabourn. It’s the second half that you need to figure out in order to win.

Take as many opportunities to guess as you want, and submit your guesses by e-mail to names@seabourn.com. Don’t forget to include your name and contact information. Entries must be received by Dec 4, 2009. In case of identical correct guesses, the winner will be drawn at random from among all correct guesses.

The award is a complimentary 7-day cruise in a minimum category suite anywhere the new ship sails between her second scheduled cruise in 2011 and June of 2012, and is subject to space availability. The prize cruise does not include airfare, ground transfers or on board purchases. All expenses not specifically stated are the sole responsibility of the winner. The award is not transferable and non-refundable. All terms and conditions of Seabourn Cruise Line’s standard Ticket Contract of Passage, as well as those stated in the General Information section of Seabourn’s brochure, shall be applicable to the cruise. In case the winner is unable to utilize available space during the maiden year, a 7-day cruise on another Seabourn yacht may be substituted.

Get thinking and submit your entries! (Where's Karnak The Magnificent when you really need him?!?)

Royal Caribbean Launches Military Appreciation Campaign With Arrival of Radiance of the Seas in San Diego

Royal Caribbean Intl’s Radiance of the Seas arrived yesterday in its new seasonal homeport of San Diego to offer West Coast vacationers more options for a memorable Mexican Riviera cruise.

Radiance of the Seas’ arrival also marks the launch of the cruise line’s military appreciation campaign. In recognition of the contributions made by members of the U.S. military and the amount of time they spend away from their families to serve their country, Royal Caribbean is making a donation of $10,000 to Wounded Warriors Families Support, an organization that provides support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured or killed during combat operations. In addition, the cruise line is offering special cruise pricing to active and retired U.S. and Canadian military personnel and their families to share a cruise vacation aboard Radiance of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas for sailings between Oct 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010.

“Royal Caribbean is appreciative of the contributions and sacrifices made by all members of our military services,” said Betsy O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “Our contribution to the Wounded Warriors Family Support organization is our way to help give back to those who have given up so much already. And we’d like to invite our heroes in the military to share a memorable vacation with their families by offering super-special fares on Mexican Riviera cruises aboard Mariner of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas.”

Radiance of the Seas will embark on a total of 29 Mexican Riviera cruises from San Diego, ranging from 4- to 12-night itineraries. In addition, vacationers also can choose a 13-night Ultimate Alaska itinerary sailing on May 8, 2010. Adding to Mariner of the Seas’ year-round sailings from Los Angeles, Radiance of the Seas offers vacationers a second choice of a Radiance-class ship from an alternative embarkation port, and a wider breadth of itinerary options sailing from the West Coast.

Radiance of the Seas begins the season with 12 short cruises from San Diego, 4- and 5-night itineraries with calls at Cabo San Lucas and, on the longer itinerary, Ensenada. Vacationers can choose among 15 longer sailings starting in Nov, ranging from 9- to 11-night round-trip itineraries that include ports of call such as Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Huatulco, Ixtapa (Zihuatanejo), Manzanillo, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. Vacationers also can avoid the stresses and messes this holiday season on Radiance of the Seas. A special 9-night Thanksgiving cruise, sailing on Nov 21, 2009, will feature a call at Manzanillo on Thanksgiving Day, the cruise line’s first return to the port since 1999. Holiday revelers also can choose a 12-night holiday cruise departing Dec 21, 2009, when guests will celebrate Christmas and herald in the New Year on board on the same cruise.

Deployed to Los Angeles in Feb 2009, Mariner of the Seas offers vacationers a 7-night Mexican Riviera itinerary year-round as the largest and most innovative cruise ship to be based in the Pacific Ocean. Ports of call include Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. Mariner of the Seas is among Royal Caribbean’s Voyager class of ships, known for revolutionizing the cruise industry in the ‘90s by introducing an onboard rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, and the Royal Promenade – a boulevard running nearly the length of the ship that is lined with lounges, stores and restaurants, including a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream parlor.

Malt Shop Memories Cruise Brings the Best of the '50s & '60s to the High Seas

Remember the oldies, like "It's My Party" and “Save the Last Dance for Me”? Well, polish up those white bucks, get your poodle skirt out of the cedar chest, and prepare to stroll down memory lane. Affinity travel company Sixthman and Carnival Cruise Lines have announced the launch of the Malt Shop Memories Cruise, a 5-day, 4-night cruise offering music lovers a unique travel experience as they journey back to the birth of rock n' roll via live performances by some of the greatest artists of the '50s & '60s.

The full-ship charter cruise will set sail May 13-17, 2010 aboard the Carnival Inspiration, traveling from Tampa, Florida, and calling at Cozumel, Mexico. On board, guests will enjoy live performances from the era's top artists in an intimate and personal setting. Those appearing include Frankie Avalon, Bobby Rydell, Little Anthony & The Imperials, Lesley Gore, The Original Drifters, The Platters, and Lou Christie. DJ Jerry Blavat, also known as the "Geator with the Heater," serves as host of the cruise and emcee of special events.

In addition to non-stop music and artist interactions, guests will enjoy other activities reminiscent of the era, including sock-hops, beach parties, dance contests, bingo, and more. Because the cruise is a full-ship charter, tickets to all the shows and admittance to every scheduled activity is open to all passengers. As Andy Levine, owner of Sixthman, says, "This music is the soundtrack for generations of peoples' lives, and we're excited for the opportunity to bring them together."

The setting for the Malt Shop Memories Cruise is the Carnival Inspiration, a 2,000 passenger floating resort boasting 2 pools, jacuzzis, a miniature golf course, state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, casino and multiple bars and restaurants. Guests will combine fine dining with themed leisure activities, while enjoying first-class service that is synonymous with the Carnival name.

Cabins for the Malt Shop Memories cruise are on sale now. For more information, or to book online, visit MaltShopCruise.com. Get ready to party like it's 1960!

Royal Caribbean’s Best Price Guarantee

When I read yesterday's release (detailed below) regarding Royal Caribbean's Best Price Guarantee, I thought it sounded familiar. Not much has actually changed about the fare guarantee, but Royal Caribbean wants to be sure travelers know about it, as well as other advantages of booking their preferred cruise early.

Vacationers can enjoy the benefits of booking early and the peace of mind of receiving the best advertised prices with Royal Caribbean Intl’s Best Price Guarantee program. By booking early, vacationers have access to a much wider selection of staterooms and availability on their desired departure date. If the guest then finds a lower fare advertised by Royal Caribbean for the same ship, sail-date and stateroom category, they can receive the difference in price as an onboard credit to spend on cocktails, spa services, specialty dining, and other shipboard purchases. Any dollars not spent will be refunded at the conclusion of the cruise.

“Best Price Guarantee gives guests peace of mind, allowing them to plan ahead, book early and get the staterooms and excursions that they want with no worries that a better deal will come along after they’ve committed,” said Betsy O’Rourke, senior vice president of Marketing, Royal Caribbean Intl. “We want our guests to know that they received a good deal from us, which helps them enjoy their vacation with us even more.”

Guests can take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s Best Price Guarantee immediately from the time of booking to up to 72 hours prior to sailing. When guests booked with Royal Caribbean find a subsequent qualifying lower price advertised by the cruise line after they’ve booked, they simply contact Royal Caribbean or their travel agent, who will make the request to the cruise line. The difference in pricing will be provided in the form of an onboard credit. For reservations outside of the final payment period, onboard credit may be replaced, upon request, with a reduction to guests’ outstanding balance or a refund, as applicable.

A limited number of pricing programs are excluded from the Best Price Guarantee program and it does not apply to group bookings. Other terms and conditions may apply (to see them all, visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/BestPriceGuarantee). For instance, price protection will be available for most fare types with the exception of Royal Sales Event and Exciting Deals; Travel Agent, Interline or Industry Reduced Rates; Employee rate programs; and a select number of price programs and promotions for new bookings only, as specified in the price program detail.

Highlights of the program are:
• No forms to fill out
• Book any time and know you are protected up until 72 hours prior to departure
• Outside of final payment: Upgrade options, Onboard Credit, or price reduction (refund if applicable)
• Inside final payment: Upgrade options or Onboard Credit

Visit Cunard Line's Next Royal: Queen Elizabeth

It's only been two months since her keel laying and Cunard Line's Queen Elizabeth is taking shape at the Fincantieri yard in Monefalcone, Italy.

Join Entertainment Director Alistair Greener as he goes on board to follow her progress.



We're certainly anxious to see Part Two of the video series!

Keep up with all things Cunard at the We Are Cunard blog.

Royal Caribbean Makes Children's Wishes Come True

When Royal Caribbean International® officially launches the Oasis of the Seas–the world’s most revolutionary cruise ship–on Nov. 30 from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., the renowned cruise line will be doing more than making wishes come true for eager vacationers … they will be making more wishes come true for Make-A-Wish® children from across the country.

Royal Caribbean has donated 1,000 staterooms for this inaugural, once-in-a-lifetime event to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The proceeds from all sales will benefit the nonprofit organization, which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Wish kids–some having their wishes granted onboard that evening–and their families will participate in the onboard festivities and enjoy the ship’s entertainment amenities.

The event symbolizes Royal Caribbean’s ongoing support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Since 2000, the cruise line has hosted more than 1,300 children who wished to go on a cruise to destinations around the world. Additionally, Royal Caribbean has contributed more than $2.8 million in in-kind services and $372,000 in discount savings through its Wishes at Sea program. Through employee and passenger fundraising efforts, it has also raised more than $480,000 and 460,000 frequent flier miles, used to secure airline tickets for children’s wish travel and help the Foundation conserve critical financial resources.

“The generosity of sponsors like Royal Caribbean has greatly enhanced our ability to grant life-affirming, world-class wishes and is critical to the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation to bring hope, strength and joy into the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions,” said David Williams, Make-A-Wish Foundation of America president and chief executive officer. “We hope that people across the nation will support the Foundation by joining us for this special inaugural cruise celebration and fundraising effort, enabling us to bring smiles to the faces of even more children–children who are waiting for wishes.”

A magical evening, the one-night cruise will not only share the power of a wish®, but be highlighted by the official christening and naming ceremony, hosted by the godmother of the ship (an honor reserved for heads of state, politicians, and celebrities, who give ships their names and serve as guiding spirits).

Oasis of the Seas’ exciting onboard amenities will be open for guests’ enjoyment, including two rock-climbing walls, the first zip line on a cruise ship, two FlowRider surf simulators, and four unique types of pools in the Pool and Sports Zone. Guests also can make an appointment for a rejuvenating session in the Vitality Spa, then go for a ride on the only carousel at sea in the Boardwalk neighborhood before taking in an acrobatic diving show in the AquaTheater. A special dinner menu will be featured in the Opus Dining Room and certain event packages will provide guests a chance to experience one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. After dinner, guests can enjoy a spectacular theatrical production in the Opal Theater; catch side-splitting comics in Comedy Live; relax in one of the ship’s many lounges; and join in world-class gaming in the Casino Royale.

Anyone interested in attending the Nov. 30 festivities can reserve a stateroom by contacting Cynthia Paez, Royal Caribbean Intl, at 877-202-1520, ext. 12751, or by e-mailing her at cpaez@rccl.com, Monday- Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

Crystal Cruises Introduces A New Way of Walking

The latest fitness craze is finding new terrain at sea aboard Crystal Cruises' ships. Expanding its commitment to offering innovative wellness programs, the luxury cruise line is introducing Nordic Walking, fitness walking with lightweight poles. Through an exclusive new partnership with LEKI USA, a leading manufacturer of skiing, trekking, and Nordic Walking Poles, Crystal continues to break new ground in fitness options at sea. Specifically designed to engage the entire body, the Nordic Walking poles (pictured here) will be available complimentary to guests aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity this October.

"We continually strive to stay a step ahead and offer our guests programs that benefit the mind and body," says Kristin Carlson, Crystal's manager of entertainment. "Besides the array of indoor gym activities, this program takes full advantage of the expansive 360-degree promenade decks aboard Crystal ships."

Featuring rubber tips to assist in push-off various surfaces, like Crystal's wide decks, Nordic Walking poles help to evenly distribute stress while walking, increase stability, and improve balance, and alleviate the steady impact of running and jogging, while offering similar benefits. Using the poles exercises the upper and lower body while walking, adding to the cardiovascular benefit and burning up to 46% more calories than walking without them.

Nordic Walking Poles specialist Rick Deutsch will be on board Crystal Serenity's October 8 cruise from Athens to Venice, and Crystal Symphony's October 19 cruise from New York to Montreal to teach the opening classes and train the ships' fitness instructors, who will lead demonstrations on following voyages.

Crystal has long been a trendsetter in sophisticated wellness programming. In addition to the 360-degree promenade decks - a rarity in luxury cruising - both ships boast well appointed fitness centers with state-of-the-art cardio and strength training equipment. Recently introduced indoor cycling classes and Kinesis(TM) machines join exclusive offerings like the Walk on Water program utilizing weighted Walkvests, complimentary yoga and Pilates mat classes, and lectures from Cleveland Clinic experts. Guests wishing to order a set of Nordic Walking Poles may do so through the fitness directors on board.

For terms and conditions or Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit CrystalCruises.com.

Cruise Lines: "Graded" or Attacked?

When organizations want to prove a point, it seems they will go to almost any length to reach their desired conclusion. So it was no surprise that when the environmental organization Friends of the Earth recently issued their first-ever "Cruise Ship Environmental Report Card, an assessment of the environmental and human health footprint of cruise lines and ships operating in the United States," the cruise industry didn't fare very well. FOE's admitted mission in issuing the "report card" was to prove that "taking a cruise is more harmful to the environment and human health than many other forms of travel."

According to their release, "Friends of the Earth’s report card ranks 10 major lines—Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean Int’l, and Silversea Cruises—according to three environmental criteria: sewage treatment technology, air pollution reduction, and water quality compliance in Alaskan waters. Holland America, Norwegian and Princess come out on top, and Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Disney are rated the worst."

Something smelled fishy to me. For instance, why flunk Disney Cruise Lines when they haven't even entered the Alaska market yet? Within days the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), released the following statement in response to the “report” by the campaign group, Friends of the Earth:

The so-called ‘Report Card' released by Friends of the Earth is not based on science, law or the facts, but rather FOE's own arbitrary and flawed criteria. It reveals more about FOE's own agenda than it does the environmental practices of CLIA member cruise lines. Above all, the grades in the report card clearly ignore the fact that our cruise lines comply with and in most cases exceed all applicable environmental regulations set by the Federal government and other regulatory bodies around the world. Fortunately, Friends of the Earth has no authority in the matter. Regulatory compliance is not based on meeting Friends of the Earth's biased, unscientific interpretation of what the rules should be.

For instance, while some ships in the CLIA fleet are fitted to plug-in to shore power, this technology is only available at five berths in North America. Therefore to fail a ship for not using port-side technology that is not even available is emblematic of FOE's tactics and further discredits this so-called report card.

While many vessels in CLIA's oceangoing fleet are equipped with Advanced Wastewater Purification Systems (AWPS, which produces and effluent cleaner than most municipalities), those ships that do not have this new technology use federally required sewage treatment systems in accordance with industry practices and procedures. The wastewater effluent meets national clean water standards.

FOE's attack purposely omits many key facts that discredit its report. Any blackwater discharged in U.S. waters by CLIA's oceangoing fleet is treated by an AWPS. While international law states ships may discharge untreated blackwater at 12 nautical miles from shore while traveling at speed, beyond U.S. waters, and anywhere else our ships sail, in accordance with CLIA's Waste Management Practices and Procedures, member cruise lines treat all blackwater through a Type II Marine Sanitation Device (approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for all vessels in U.S. ports) or an AWPS.

The water pollution standards Friends of the Earth used to grade “Water Quality Compliance” are not standards at all. They are future wastewater targets in Alaska not yet in effect. In fact, these targets have been postponed until 2015.

With respect to Alaska, a December 2008 EPA report commended the industry for its solid waste management practices, which surpass the practices of most municipalities in the United States.

Air emissions are regulated at the international, federal, and state levels. CLIA ships in operation are issued an International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate attesting to the fact that they meet the standards. The cruise industry's emissions of carbon dioxide and other air emissions, on a per passenger basis, have been significantly and continue to be reduced in recent years. This has been the result of more fuel efficient ships coming into service and new technologies and energy management programs
that reduce emissions.

CLIA concludes that, “It is regrettable that Friends of the Earth authors such misinformation when in fact this industry has made tremendous progress in the past several years in advancing technology and developing programs that go a long way in protecting the environment.”

Cruise Travel: Laundry At Sea

While packing for our Alaska cruise aboard Holland America Line's Westerdam, one of my concerns was heavier than usual luggage. Jeans, sweaters, and other cold weather gear weigh more than shorts, tee-shirts, and bathing suits and each 26" suitcase was soon very close to the 50 pound limit imposed by the airline. So close, in fact, that we added a 22" suitcase for the shoes and toiletries that are real weight hogs.

To further compound our hefty suitcase woes, we were staying in Seattle for two pre-cruise days and one day after the cruise. So, we counted the days, figured out what we'd need for half of them and planned to use Westerdam's laundry service mid-way through our trip.

Unfortunately, with the introduction of Holland America's Vista-class ships, self-service passenger laundry facilities were dropped from the ships' features.

Fortunately, when our cabin steward left a laundry list and bag, I noticed that "Laundry By The Bag" was an available option. Rather than pay per item, which would have totaled $40, everything we could fit into the bag was washed and folded for $20. That included a pair of jeans, two knit turtleneck pullovers, and numerous pairs of socks and undergarments.

Not a bad deal at all. The Westerdam laundry did the work while I enjoyed my time on board without having to bother with a not-so-relaxing task. After all, who goes on a cruise to do laundry?

Carnival Cruise Lines to Launch Year-Round Cruises from Charleston in 2010

For those of us living in southeastern states north of Florida, our “fantasy” of having a closer-to-home drive to port is about to come true. Carnival Cruise Lines will introduce the first year-round cruise schedule from Charleston, S.C., with the deployment of the 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy in May 2010. Carnival Fantasy will operate 5-, 6- and 7-day voyages to The Bahamas and Key West, Fla., from the Passenger Terminal in historic downtown Charleston beginning May 18, 2010.

Charleston’s centralized location within the southeastern U.S., as well as the city’s strong appeal as a tourist destination, were key factors in the decision to launch year-round service aboard the Carnival Fantasy. On Carnival Fantasy’s new Charleston-based cruises, Carnival is expected to carry more than 140,000 passengers annually from the port. Including Charleston, Carnival Cruise Lines will operate from 20 North American homeports in 2010, with 12 year-round departure points–the most in cruising.

The new year-round departures from Charleston dramatically expand upon Carnival’s decade-long relationship with the port. Previously, Carnival has operated seasonal voyages from Charleston, including two 5-day departures on the Carnival Triumph this year and two on the Carnival Glory next year.

New Year-Round Departures from Charleston: Five-day voyages will depart Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays call at Nassau and Freeport, The Bahamas. Six-day voyages departing Saturdays will visit Freeport, Nassau and Key West, Fla. Seven-day voyages depart Saturdays and will feature Grand Turk, the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay, and Nassau. Each of these tropical destinations has a character all its own and offers a wide range of snorkeling, fishing, and water sports opportunities, as well as beautiful beaches and a distinctive island ambiance.

Carnival Elation to Mobile: Carnival Fantasy, currently based in New Orleans, is scheduled to transfer to Mobile for a program of 4- and 5-day cruises that will operate from that port from Nov. 10, 2009 through May 10, 2010. Replacing the Carnival Fantasy in Mobile will be its sister ship, the 2,052-passenger Carnival Elation, which will reposition from San Diego to launch year-round service from that port May 15, 2010. In addition to 4- and 5-day cruises from Mobile, Carnival Elation will operate a series of 7-day Western Caribbean voyages in spring, summer, and fall 2010. Prior to the start-up of its new Mobile-based program, Carnival Elation will sail on a 15-day Panama Canal cruise departing from San Diego April 30. Guests will have the option of debarking the vessel in Tampa on May 14 or in Mobile on May 15. Featured ports will include Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; and Puntarenas, Costa Rica; followed by a Panama Canal transit; and visits to Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Only Five More ‘Fun Ships’ To Reach His Goal

When William Filomena boarded the Carnival Fascination at the Port of Jacksonville earlier this week, he inched closer to completing his mission of sailing on all 23 Carnival “Fun Ships” in approximately one year.

Since starting his journey last fall on the Carnival Spirit, Filomena has sailed on 18 different vessels, most recently the Carnival Conquest from Galveston just last week. Before disembarking on Sunday, the Washington state resident had his photo taken with the ship’s Hotel Director Marvin Barrantes (pictured here).

Filomena, who will sail on the Carnival Dream’s trans-Atlantic voyage in October, expects to reach his goal when he embarks on an 8-day Carnival Miracle cruise in December.

Norwegian Rewards Cruisers For Booking “NOW”

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its 3-day NOW Sale today, Wednesday, Sept 16. The unbelievable cruise deals and special booking offers on select sailings run through Friday, Sept 18 for more than 300 popular cruises including those to Bahamas & Florida; Bermuda; the Caribbean; Europe; Hawaii; the Mexican Riviera; South America; Canada & New England; as well as repositionings. In addition to great cruise fares, Norwegian is offering up to $250 in on-board spending credit, and 50 percent off standard cruise deposits.

Norwegian’s NOW sale is offered on all new bookings for sailings taking place between Sept 18, 2009 and April 30, 2010 ranging in length from 3- to 29-day sailings with departures from Miami, New York, Vancouver, Boston, Philadelphia, New Orleans, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Quebec, Barcelona, Istanbul, Santiago, and Buenos Aires. The deposit required at time of booking is now half off and, depending on the length of the cruise, ranges from just $25 to $200 per person (excluding suites and villas).

The on-board credit can be used to purchase anything from shore excursions and spa treatments; to specialty fitness classes like yoga and spinning; gifts in the duty free shop and can even be used in the casino. The amount is based on the length of the cruise and the category of stateroom booked. Guests who book sailings of up to five days in a Garden Villa receive $100 per stateroom in spending credit; $75 for suites; $50 for mini-suites; $40 for balcony staterooms; $20 for oceanview and $15 for inside staterooms. For sailings of six days and longer, guests sailing in a Garden Villa receive $250 per stateroom in on-board spending credit; $150 for suites; $100 for mini-suites and deluxe balcony staterooms; $75 for balcony staterooms; $50 for oceanview and $25 for inside staterooms.

To book a sailing NOW, guests should contact a travel professional or Norwegian at 866-234-7350. Further information, including specific sailing dates, can be found online at NCL.com.

Westerdam to Alaska: Victoria, BC/Debarkation

For Westerdam’s evening port call to Victoria, BC, we chose a “pub” tour and sampled beers at three micro-breweries. The bus ride through the city with our knowledgeable and entertaining bus driver was almost more interesting. We’d like to come back to Victoria again for a daytime tour to Butchart Gardens, which we heard weren’t as impressive at night, even though they are softly illuminated.

Sadly, our cruise had come to an end, but the Holland America Line service didn’t stop. Based on post-cruise transportation plans, all Westerdam passengers were assigned specific debarkation times. Ours was 8:45am and that’s exactly when we walked off the ship. By 9:40 we had taken the Budget Rent-a-Car shuttle from the pier to downtown, picked up our car, and were pulling into the parking lot at The Museum of Flight where we spent several hours wandering through the exhibits, including Air Force One (that would be the plane that was used primarily by President Lyndon Johnson).

Seattle has so much to see and do that I heartily recommend spending several days pre- or post-cruise to explore the area. Our Seattle CityPass was good for nine days and served us well both before and after our Westerdam cruise. Included for $54 are six admission tickets, each with a little tip revealing a CityPass secret to skip main ticket lines for:

1. Space Needle: Day & Night admission: two visits to the top within 24 hours
2. Seattle Aquarium: general admission
3. Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour: one hour cruise
4. Pacific Science Center: general admission & one 2D or 3D IMAX® film
5. Woodland Park Zoo: general admission
6. The Museum of Flight: general admission
or Experience Music Project Science Fiction Museum: general admission

Here’s a bird’s eye view of what we saw today at The Museum of Flight…

Space Capsule

President Johnson’s Desk Aboard Air Force One

United States Navy Aircraft

Just a part of the 6-story glass and steel Great Gallery containing 43 historic aircraft tracing the history of the first 100 years of human flight.

Westerdam to Alaska: Sharing “Bert’s Beauty Shots”

Bert van Mackelenbergh is a man on the move with a camera. After leaving his native Holland and settling in Aruba, he was intrigued by the cruise ships that came and went to the island so he applied for a job with Holland America Line. Moving his way up the ranks for the past nine years, Bert presently serves as Hotel Manager aboard Westerdam and spends his free time pursuing his passion for nature photography. He loves the outdoors and animals and Alaska is his favorite place to photograph both.

While Westerdam was in Ketchikan last week, Bert took a floatplane and hiking tour where he encountered a bear and shot him (with his Canon) from about 15 feet away. To get the perfect picture of an eagle, Bert chartered a boat and spent five hours waiting patiently. He took 1000 photos that day. When the glaciers calved in Glacier Bay last week, Bert said he was in the right place at the right time. He's been known to glance out his office window, grab his camera, and head for Westerdam’s open decks.

Some of his “Beauty Shots” are taken right on the pier, as the day he photographed flowers when Westerdam was docked in Juneau. He recommends a whale watching tour from Juneau for maximum nature photo opportunities.

There’s beauty all around us and Bert van Mackelenbergh sees it and shares it in very special photos. Use the links above to view his enthusiasm for flowers, animals, and natural wonders.

Westerdam to Alaska: A Taste Of Holland America Line

Westerdam Bread Pudding

Holland America Line’s signature dessert is what many passengers consider the world’s best bread pudding. For your pleasure, Westerdam’s Executive Chef Franck Tieben shares the recipe below and a hearty BON APPETIT!

Ingredients:

Bread Filling

White toast or sandwich bread, 1.5 lb
Melted butter, 3 oz
Raisins, 8 oz
Zest of one lemon
Rum & Grand Marnier to taste

Pudding for Filling

Milk, 1.3 quart
Eggs, 6
Egg yolks, 3
Sugar, 11 oz
Vanilla bean, 1
Cinnamon powder to taste

Vanilla Sauce

Milk, 1 quart
Egg yolks, 10
Sugar, 12 oz
Vanilla bean, 1

Pudding Preparation:

-- Cut bread in 1-inch cubes, sprinkle with melted butter and slightly toast in oven.
-- Boil milk with half the amount of sugar, add vanilla bean and lemon zests.
-- Whip eggs with the other half of sugar, slowly add hot milk while whisking and combine with the rest of the ingredients.
-- Place filling in a buttered mold, sprinkle with cinnamon.
-- Set mold in a “water bath” in the oven and bake at 330° for 40 minutes.

Vanilla Sauce:

-- Bring milk and sugar to boil, add cut vanilla bean and allow to cool down for a minute.
-- Beat egg yolks and slowly add hot milk while whipping the egg yolks.
-- Put in a hot water bath and constantly whip the sauce until it thickens. Do not allow it to boil.

Arrange the cut bread pudding on a mirror of vanilla sauce and enjoy!

Westerdam to Alaska: Ketchikan, “Salmon Capital of the World”

One of my favorite Alaska ports, Ketchikan is likely to also become a favorite of my cat Elvis as well. While placing my order for smoked salmon to be mailed home from Salmon Etc, Mel noticed fillet of salmon cat treats. The next time Elvis has a snack attack, he’s in for quite a happy surprise.

For shoppers interested in authentic Alaskan native art, Ketchikan is a treasure trove of shops and galleries. It’s also a very walkable town with colorful Creek Street (pictured here) just a short stroll from the piers. While the buildings are now home to shops, they were once a part of the infamous “red light” district. The creek that runs alongside was full of salmon today—many of them putting on quite a show as they leaped into the air.

Back aboard Westerdam we were treated to a Great Alaska Cook-Out poolside. And we just learned that the after dinner Dessert Extravaganza, which had to be cancelled last night due to rough seas, has been rescheduled for tonight.

With so many activities to choose from, it’s almost difficult to decide how to spend the rest of the day at sea… there’s a digital workshop featuring photo editing, a margarita mixology course, wine tasting, and a Cupcake Tea. One event I don’t want to miss is the Travel Guide Series lecture about Alaska’s Native People.

Westerdam to Alaska: Tracy Arm Fjord

Oops, what happened to Sitka? We’ve had good news and bad news aboard Westerdam.

First, the bad news. Before leaving Juneau yesterday, Captain Henk Keijer made the announcement that due to the weather forecast of hurricane force winds and rough seas we would be unable to call at Sitka today as planned. Sitka is a tender port and it would simply be too dangerous for the ship and passengers.

Instead, the good news. We sailed in the calmer Inside Passage to Tracy Arm Fjord and enjoyed scenic cruising from early morning until mid-afternoon. Even on a rainy day with low clouds, the scenery is stunning. Waterfalls rushing down the cliffs created a symphony of sights and sounds that more than made up for the missed port call.

And, just in case anyone on board is unhappy, they will receive a complimentary glass of wine or champagne at dinner. A nice touch from our Hotel Manager and Captain.

Tracy Arm was an unexpected pleasure and we still have Ketchikan to look forward to tomorrow.