Just wanted to take a moment to wish every one a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a bright and prosperous New Year!
And Remember...You haven't Lived 'till you've Cruised!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
RCI Adds Oasis Inaugural Sailings
Royal Caribbean International today announced two additional sailings to Oasis of the Seas' inaugural season: a seven-night inaugural Eastern Caribbean itinerary, sailing on Dec. 5, 2009, and a special four-night voyage - departing Dec. 1, 2009 - to celebrate the launch of an all-new Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach paradise in Haiti.
The Dec. 5, 2009 seven-night inaugural will call at St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Nassau. Guests booked on the original inaugural sail date of Dec. 12, 2009 can move to the new inaugural sailing of Dec. 5 before it opens to the public for booking on Jan. 12, 2009. During the reaccommodation period, which ends on Jan. 11, 2009, the following special benefits will apply: Guests choosing to sail consecutively on both the Dec. 1 and the Dec. 5, 2009 voyages also will receive a $200 onboard credit per stateroom ($300 onboard credit per suite) for an 11-night Oasis of the Seas cruise. Booked guests who want to take either the Dec. 1 or Dec. 5 sailing will be reaccommodated in the same stateroom and category. The cruise fare for the Dec. 5 sailing will remain unchanged. Guests who want to sail on the four-night voyage will receive a prorated fare.
The four-night itinerary includes a call at Labadee and two days at sea. Oasis of the Seas' maiden port of call at Labadee on Dec. 3, 2009 also will herald the opening of new facilities and array of activities and excursion options at the private beach destination.
The Dec. 5, 2009 seven-night inaugural will call at St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Nassau. Guests booked on the original inaugural sail date of Dec. 12, 2009 can move to the new inaugural sailing of Dec. 5 before it opens to the public for booking on Jan. 12, 2009. During the reaccommodation period, which ends on Jan. 11, 2009, the following special benefits will apply: Guests choosing to sail consecutively on both the Dec. 1 and the Dec. 5, 2009 voyages also will receive a $200 onboard credit per stateroom ($300 onboard credit per suite) for an 11-night Oasis of the Seas cruise. Booked guests who want to take either the Dec. 1 or Dec. 5 sailing will be reaccommodated in the same stateroom and category. The cruise fare for the Dec. 5 sailing will remain unchanged. Guests who want to sail on the four-night voyage will receive a prorated fare.
The four-night itinerary includes a call at Labadee and two days at sea. Oasis of the Seas' maiden port of call at Labadee on Dec. 3, 2009 also will herald the opening of new facilities and array of activities and excursion options at the private beach destination.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Uniworld River Cruise Reintroduces Pay-In-Full Savings
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is reintroducing its Pay-In-Full Savings program that gives savings of $600 to $2,000 per couple on 2009 itineraries throughout Europe. The deal is good for those who pay in full by Jan. 31. “In the current challenging economic environment we want to give our customers every incentive to travel. With the reintroduction of the pay-in-full savings, coupled with the all-inclusiveness of a Uniworld river cruise, consumers now have a very compelling reason to travel to Europe and the other destinations we offer,” said Guy Young, president of Uniworld.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Princess Ships Prepare for a Festive Season at Sea
Snow Flurries Again Provide Holiday Magic, Along with a Gingerbread Housebuilding Challenge and Turkey Carving Training from the Experts
As the holidays draw near, Princess ships are preparing for another festive season at sea, and weather conditions are again pointing to unusual snow flurries onboard. After an extremely popular debut last year, snow will again magically fall in the ship’s atriums, transforming the vessels into a winter wonderland throughout December.
“What’s better than the romance of a white Christmas, especially when it’s an unexpected surprise?” said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president. “Our snowfalls were such a huge hit last year that this has now become a new tradition on Princess ships.”
The innovative snow-making process creates falling flakes that vanish on contact, letting passengers enjoy the excitement of snow flurries without the need to bundle up. Princess’ daily snowfall will occur on all ships except for the lines’ three small vessels – Pacific Princess, Tahitian Princess and Royal Princess – which do not have large, multi-story atriums.
Even when the snow isn’t coming down, Princess ships will feature a merry atmosphere. Vessels are decked out in holiday décor – even including a Christmas tree on the vessels’ masts – and strolling carolers fill the air with the sounds of the season.
Passengers can once again participate in a “gingerbread challenge,” where teams test their holiday housebuilding skills in a fun-filled competition to construct the most creative gingerbread structure. Or they can test their holiday craft skills by creating a personalized photo ornament. And new this year is a turkey-carving demonstration from the onboard culinary experts to prepare passengers to do the honors at their next holiday feast.
Special events also include a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by either the captain or cruise director, and a holiday variety show adds a seasonal element to the ship’s entertainment offerings. For those who can’t get enough of Christmas carols, the ships’ Princess Pop Star talent show will feature a holiday edition where competitors can croon their favorite seasonal songs.
Religious services are held as well, and passengers can attend midnight mass or an inter-denominational church service performed by onboard clergy. Passengers will receive a stocking turndown gift and can enjoy classic holiday films or even relax in front of a traditional burning Yule log … on their stateroom television!
Holiday Feasts – Each Princess ship’s culinary team will delight the senses with spectacular holiday displays and will serve up several delicious feasts. A sumptuous Christmas brunch includes complimentary eggnog. On Christmas Day, passengers will sit down to a dinner of traditional holiday fare including roast turkey and all the trimmings. Freshly prepared stolen and Christmas cookies (even some for Santa) round out the seasonal treats.
Christmas For Children – Junior cruisers can count down to the big day with special holiday activities. Santa Claus makes an appearance with his sack full of toys, and a fun-filled holiday fair in the atrium offers youngsters the opportunity to try their hand at Christmas cookie decorating, balloon making, face painting, games and other competitions. The youth centers will host holiday parties for each age group, and kids can make decorations to display on the center’s Christmas tree. Youngsters can get creative with other holiday-themed arts and crafts projects throughout the cruise, and they will have an opportunity to sing Christmas carols for passengers. For parents who want to stay up later to celebrate the holidays, free late-night group kid sitting sessions will be available on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Hanukkah – Ships will also offer festivities for passengers celebrating the Festival of Lights. A special area of the ship is reserved for those participating in Hanukkah events and ships will display menorahs and fresh flower arrangements decorated in blue, silver and white. Children will enjoy themed arts and crafts pertinent to the holiday.
Happy New Year – Passengers will ring in a fun-filled 2009 with festive New Year's Eve parties, complete with music, confetti, noise-makers and a balloon drop to count down to the new year. Earlier in the evening, the dinner menu will feature special treats just for New Year’s Eve. On New Year’s Day, football fans will be pleased to know they won’t miss the holiday’s traditional college bowl games, as the telecasts will be shown (as available by satellite) in a shipboard lounge or on some vessels’ giant Movies Under the Stars top-deck screen.
The 17-ship Princess fleet will cover the globe this holiday season, with sailings to the Caribbean, Mexico, the Panama Canal, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, South America, Hawaii and the South Pacific.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Carnival Glory to Sail Canada Cruises From NYC in 2010
Carnival Cruise Lines will increase capacity on its seasonal cruise program from New York in 2010 with the 2,978-passenger Carnival Glory scheduled to operate a variety of four- and five-day Atlantic Canada voyages from June to September, followed by a series of five week-long fall foliage cruises.
It marks the first time that Carnival has deployed one of its largest ships on the highly popular program.
Additionally, departing from New York makes these cruises extremely convenient and attractive for the huge population base within driving distance of Manhattan, as well as for those in the larger Eastern US who can take a short-haul flight to one of the area's three major airports.
Four-day cruises departing Thursdays feature a call at Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada and scenic cruising in the Bay of Fundy, while five-day cruises departing on Mondays and Saturdays include stops at Saint John and Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The program commences with a four-day voyage departing June 6, 2010 (a one-time Sunday departure). Week-long fall foliage itineraries beginning Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010, feature four different ports of call, including Boston, Portland (Maine), Saint John and Halifax.
The cruise line is currently accepting reservations for both its 2009 and its 2010 departures from New York (2009 voyages will operate on the Carnival Triumph). For additional information and reservations, call me at (706) 579-5005 / (877) CRUISE1.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Viking River Cruises said it will debut Viking Legend, featuring cutting-edge technology and largest suites in Europe river cruising. The new ship will be introduced on the 15-day Viking River Cruises Grand European Tour itinerary, which takes guests along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between Amsterdam and Budapest; its official launch is expected to occur in May 2009. To further entice travelers to experience the new Viking Legend and all of the ships in its fleet, Viking has rolled out an incentive offer to encourage people who have taken at least one ocean cruise to try river cruising. “If you like ocean cruising, you will love river cruising,” said Tor Hagen, Viking chairman and CEO. “That is why we are offering anyone who has taken an ocean cruise a special Ocean Cruisers discount of $500 per person/$1,000 per couple on any 2009 Viking itinerary.”
Viking Legend will feature two suites measuring 310 square feet each -- the largest river cruise suites in Europe. “While all our staterooms are deluxe, with hotel-style beds, European linens and high-quality amenities, these suites are truly magnificent,” said Hagen. “Their size and configuration are comparable to high-end American hotel rooms, so guests can relax in unprecedented comfort.” Suites will have complimentary room service (in-room dining) available during all mealtimes. The new ship will be powered by an innovative propulsion system, allowing it to achieve an estimated 20 percent boost in fuel efficiency over any other river cruising vessel in the region. The new ship will also provide a quieter ride for guests by using four smaller propellers instead of two large propellers.
In addition to reducing emissions and engine noise, Viking Legend will provide the latest security features such as double hulls, multiple exits in all public areas and backup generators. At 443 feet, the three-level Viking Legend will be the longest in the Viking fleet, and will accommodate 189 guests in 98 staterooms. Additional amenities include 26-inch flat-screen televisions, refrigerators, hair dryers and in-room safes. Aboard Viking Legend, guests will enjoy fine dining at the ship's restaurant featuring seasonal menus and local specialties, a library, sun deck with 360-degree panoramic views, souvenir shop and an observation lounge.
For more information or to take advantage of these special rates, call me at (706) 579-5005 or Toll Free (877) CRUISE1
Viking Legend will feature two suites measuring 310 square feet each -- the largest river cruise suites in Europe. “While all our staterooms are deluxe, with hotel-style beds, European linens and high-quality amenities, these suites are truly magnificent,” said Hagen. “Their size and configuration are comparable to high-end American hotel rooms, so guests can relax in unprecedented comfort.” Suites will have complimentary room service (in-room dining) available during all mealtimes. The new ship will be powered by an innovative propulsion system, allowing it to achieve an estimated 20 percent boost in fuel efficiency over any other river cruising vessel in the region. The new ship will also provide a quieter ride for guests by using four smaller propellers instead of two large propellers.
In addition to reducing emissions and engine noise, Viking Legend will provide the latest security features such as double hulls, multiple exits in all public areas and backup generators. At 443 feet, the three-level Viking Legend will be the longest in the Viking fleet, and will accommodate 189 guests in 98 staterooms. Additional amenities include 26-inch flat-screen televisions, refrigerators, hair dryers and in-room safes. Aboard Viking Legend, guests will enjoy fine dining at the ship's restaurant featuring seasonal menus and local specialties, a library, sun deck with 360-degree panoramic views, souvenir shop and an observation lounge.
For more information or to take advantage of these special rates, call me at (706) 579-5005 or Toll Free (877) CRUISE1
Friday, October 31, 2008
Disney Cruise Line Offers Reduced Rate “Bounceback” Cruise
Disney Cruise Line is offering clients sailing on a four- or seven-night cruise this winter the opportunity to sail on a three-night Bahamian cruise for $99 per person, double occupancy, later in 2009. Agents must book clients on a four- or seven-night cruise with sail dates of Jan. 31 through March 8, 2009, and March 21 to 28, 2009. Clients can then select a “bounceback” cruise at the $99 rate on most sailings between Aug. 13 and Dec. 17, 2009. To take advantage of this offer, the first cruise must be booked by Dec. 15, 2008. Call me today to take advantage of this limited time offer. (706) 579-5005 / (877) CRUISE1
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Family Cruises Are Popular for Many Reasons
CLIA has just released the results of an online survey on family cruises.
We surveyed over 1,100 households and this is what we found: Families take cruises and they cruise often because the price is right, the value for money spent is outstanding and the cruise experience offers unique advantages over comparably priced land-based vacations.
* Almost half (46%) of respondents have taken two to four cruises with children under the age of 18; 15.2% have taken five to seven cruises, and 4.8% have taken more than 10.
* Over 83% of families said cruise vacations are very good or extremely good value.
* Over 73% said that their last cruise was the same price or less than a resort vacation, with almost 50% saying that the cruise was slightly or much less costly.
* Family cruisers listed many key advantages to taking a cruise over a family resort stay, including: the opportunity to visit multiple destinations (62.8%); the all-inclusive nature of a cruise vacation - accommodations, meals, entertainment and shipboard activities included in one price - (57.7%); onboard kids programs and facilities (30.2%); the variety of onboard amenities (28%); and onboard entertainment (20.3%).
* Over 36% of families said that the destination or itinerary was the primary deciding factor in choosing a family cruise. Almost 30% were most motivated by price.
* Almost 70% of respondents said that planning a cruise was easier than planning a resort vacation.
* The survey found that 44.3% of families spend about half their time together on a cruise, while 42.7% said they spend all or most of their cruise vacation together as a family.
* Over 30% of respondents said quality shared family time was the best thing about a cruise, while over 20% cited the hassle-free "don't need to plan anything" quality of a cruise as the most enjoyable feature of a vacation at sea.
The message we at CLIA get from these findings is that families love cruises, and cruises offer outstanding value.
What does this say to me..."book your cruise "Today"!
We surveyed over 1,100 households and this is what we found: Families take cruises and they cruise often because the price is right, the value for money spent is outstanding and the cruise experience offers unique advantages over comparably priced land-based vacations.
* Almost half (46%) of respondents have taken two to four cruises with children under the age of 18; 15.2% have taken five to seven cruises, and 4.8% have taken more than 10.
* Over 83% of families said cruise vacations are very good or extremely good value.
* Over 73% said that their last cruise was the same price or less than a resort vacation, with almost 50% saying that the cruise was slightly or much less costly.
* Family cruisers listed many key advantages to taking a cruise over a family resort stay, including: the opportunity to visit multiple destinations (62.8%); the all-inclusive nature of a cruise vacation - accommodations, meals, entertainment and shipboard activities included in one price - (57.7%); onboard kids programs and facilities (30.2%); the variety of onboard amenities (28%); and onboard entertainment (20.3%).
* Over 36% of families said that the destination or itinerary was the primary deciding factor in choosing a family cruise. Almost 30% were most motivated by price.
* Almost 70% of respondents said that planning a cruise was easier than planning a resort vacation.
* The survey found that 44.3% of families spend about half their time together on a cruise, while 42.7% said they spend all or most of their cruise vacation together as a family.
* Over 30% of respondents said quality shared family time was the best thing about a cruise, while over 20% cited the hassle-free "don't need to plan anything" quality of a cruise as the most enjoyable feature of a vacation at sea.
The message we at CLIA get from these findings is that families love cruises, and cruises offer outstanding value.
What does this say to me..."book your cruise "Today"!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
RCCL's "Oasis of the Seas" Ultimate Wonderland for Young Adventurers - "Oh, to be a kid again"
The final neighborhood to be added into the deck plans of Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas was announced last night. The Youth Zone, a haven for children and teens, joins the ranks of six other previously-announced, diverse neighborhoods that will be aboard the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ship due to launch in November 2009. Oasis of the Seas features a unique concept that will provide guests with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal style, preference or mood in seven neighborhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk with the AquaTheater, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place, and the Youth Zone.
Oasis of the Seas will offer more of everything for every member of the family, including more for our younger guests. The Youth Zone aboard Oasis of the Seas will continue to build on our award-winning Adventure Ocean youth and teen programs, and expand to include dedicated space and programming for our guests as young as six months.
The latest neighborhood unveiling introduced a wealth of kid- and teen-friendly adventures that lie within the Youth Zone - covering a total expansive area of more than 28,700 sq. ft. (2,669 sq. meters) - including, Kids Avenue, a central boulevard connecting children with dedicated Adventure Ocean spaces and various themed play areas; the cruise line’s first nursery for infants and toddlers (six months or older); and state-of-the-art teen areas. A video preview of these areas, including interviews with Royal Caribbean executives, is now available online at http://www.oasisoftheseas.com/
In recent years, we've seen family travel increase and evolve, particularly in the area of multi-generational travel. This has prompted us to provide dedicated family travel specialists, as well as offer family vacation options that come with great value and memorable experiences for all. As such, Oasis of the Seas is a welcomed and wonderful addition to our cruise offerings.
The Adventure Ocean youth program aboard Oasis of the Seas will feature the cruise line’s award-winning curriculum currently offered to young guests fleetwide, but with an exciting new and enhanced approach, including impressive spaces created and equipped specifically for designated activities allowing for a more robust program. All Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean and teen programs are led by exceptional, energetic and college-educated counselors, whose goal is to create memorable experiences for the cruise line’s younger guests.
Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated advancements is the addition of the Royal Babies and Tots nursery, a first for Royal Caribbean. This colorful space will serve as a fully-staffed nursery where children can be left in the care of Royal Caribbean’s trained professionals, as well as host various playgroups created by Fisher-Price and Crayola for babies and tots.
Open daily, the nursery will offer parents childcare drop-off options in the daytime and evening, carefully maintaining an optimum staff to child ratio. Free-time play also will be offered daily, creating an interactive environment where parents and children can bond while playing with a variety of Fisher Price developmental toys in specially-designed programs offered exclusively for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean. The Crayola Beginnings line of toddler art tools will be featured in unique developmentally-appropriate art activities designed for parents and children to enjoy precious creative moments together.
Within the Youth Zone, Kids Avenue will serve as the main promenade for young cruisers to access the various Adventure Ocean areas. Crayola Arts and crafts activities, scavenger hunts, talent shows and other scheduled and guided age-specific activities will be offered to three Adventure Ocean program age groups, each with its own space: Aquanauts, ages 3 to 5; Explorers, ages 6 to 8; and Voyagers, ages 9 to 11.
In addition, Oasis of the Seas will introduce exciting new common play areas, including the Kid’s Arcade for video games; the Workshop, where families can learn scrapbooking skills or create personalized jewelry; Imagination Studio where children can explore the world of color and imagination through Adventure Art by Crayola; a fully-equipped lab for Adventure Science Lab, where Einsteins-in-the-making can expand their knowledge; Play, a circular area where children can rollick and participate in a variety of sports and games; and Adventure Ocean Theater, the first-ever children’s theater at sea - complete with a stage and curtains, audience seating and state-of-the-art production equipment - where children of all ages can learn about theatrical productions, take part in talent shows, or sign up for hip hop dance classes.
The teen-only spaces will be located one deck above the Adventure Ocean areas and adjacent to the ship’s Sports Deck, where kids can test their skills on one of the ship’s two FlowRider surf simulators; the miniature golf-course, Oasis Dunes; or the Sports Court for volleyball and basketball games. The physical separation of the teen-only spaces from younger Adventure Ocean guests will be one of the many striking enhancements implemented as a recommendation of Royal Caribbean’s Teen Advisory Board — a group of teens recruited last year to identify what youths between the ages of 12- and 17-years would want to see aboard future Royal Caribbean ships.
Longtime favorite Royal Caribbean teen-only spaces, Fuel disco and The Living Room, will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, only larger and more state-of-the-art. The Living Room will be the ultimate go-to hangout for teens to kick back and socialize at the “mock-tail” bar, which serves non-alcoholic sodas and juice concoctions; learn to spin and mix music in Scratch DJ 101 classes, a part of Royal Caribbean’s Scratch DJ Academy; or surf the Internet and keep in touch with friends via the bank of computer stations dedicated to the space. Teens also will be able to kick it up a notch at Fuel, a disco which will feature a hip environment, where they can hang out with friends, and a dance floor, where they can show off their moves. A spacious outdoor deck adjacent to these venues will give teens more opportunities to make new friends while on their cruise vacation.
In addition to the areas within the Youth Zone and teen-only spots aboard Oasis of the Seas, special attractions for children of all ages also will be located throughout the ship’ other neighborhoods. Along the Boardwalk, kids and teens will be able to shop at retail stores tailored to their interests, and infants and toddlers can ride the Carousel with their parents or enjoy the climbing and play space modeled after a 50’s-style gas station next to the popular Johnny Rockets restaurant. The lively Challengers Arcade also will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, and will be decked out with the latest video games sure to entertain kids and teens. In the Vitality Spa and Fitness Zone, teens and tweens can enjoy a menu of spa options specially tailored for them in a dedicated space at the Vitality at Sea Spa.
A diverse selection of activities for families and guests of all ages will be found in all of the neighborhoods throughout Oasis of the Seas. Family-friendly innovations range from the industry’s first amphitheater, the AquaTheater, featuring theatrical diving performances and spectacular water and light shows; the first zip line at sea stretching 82 feet in length and suspended nine decks above the exciting Boardwalk area; and in the Pool & Sports Zone, the H2O Zone aquapark with its toddler pool and the first beach pool at sea, featuring a true-to-form sloped entry and colorful beach chairs and umbrellas to give guests the ultimate beach experience.
When she launches in November 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Oasis of the Seas will offer more of everything for every member of the family, including more for our younger guests. The Youth Zone aboard Oasis of the Seas will continue to build on our award-winning Adventure Ocean youth and teen programs, and expand to include dedicated space and programming for our guests as young as six months.
The latest neighborhood unveiling introduced a wealth of kid- and teen-friendly adventures that lie within the Youth Zone - covering a total expansive area of more than 28,700 sq. ft. (2,669 sq. meters) - including, Kids Avenue, a central boulevard connecting children with dedicated Adventure Ocean spaces and various themed play areas; the cruise line’s first nursery for infants and toddlers (six months or older); and state-of-the-art teen areas. A video preview of these areas, including interviews with Royal Caribbean executives, is now available online at http://www.oasisoftheseas.com/
In recent years, we've seen family travel increase and evolve, particularly in the area of multi-generational travel. This has prompted us to provide dedicated family travel specialists, as well as offer family vacation options that come with great value and memorable experiences for all. As such, Oasis of the Seas is a welcomed and wonderful addition to our cruise offerings.
The Adventure Ocean youth program aboard Oasis of the Seas will feature the cruise line’s award-winning curriculum currently offered to young guests fleetwide, but with an exciting new and enhanced approach, including impressive spaces created and equipped specifically for designated activities allowing for a more robust program. All Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean and teen programs are led by exceptional, energetic and college-educated counselors, whose goal is to create memorable experiences for the cruise line’s younger guests.
Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated advancements is the addition of the Royal Babies and Tots nursery, a first for Royal Caribbean. This colorful space will serve as a fully-staffed nursery where children can be left in the care of Royal Caribbean’s trained professionals, as well as host various playgroups created by Fisher-Price and Crayola for babies and tots.
Open daily, the nursery will offer parents childcare drop-off options in the daytime and evening, carefully maintaining an optimum staff to child ratio. Free-time play also will be offered daily, creating an interactive environment where parents and children can bond while playing with a variety of Fisher Price developmental toys in specially-designed programs offered exclusively for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean. The Crayola Beginnings line of toddler art tools will be featured in unique developmentally-appropriate art activities designed for parents and children to enjoy precious creative moments together.
Within the Youth Zone, Kids Avenue will serve as the main promenade for young cruisers to access the various Adventure Ocean areas. Crayola Arts and crafts activities, scavenger hunts, talent shows and other scheduled and guided age-specific activities will be offered to three Adventure Ocean program age groups, each with its own space: Aquanauts, ages 3 to 5; Explorers, ages 6 to 8; and Voyagers, ages 9 to 11.
In addition, Oasis of the Seas will introduce exciting new common play areas, including the Kid’s Arcade for video games; the Workshop, where families can learn scrapbooking skills or create personalized jewelry; Imagination Studio where children can explore the world of color and imagination through Adventure Art by Crayola; a fully-equipped lab for Adventure Science Lab, where Einsteins-in-the-making can expand their knowledge; Play, a circular area where children can rollick and participate in a variety of sports and games; and Adventure Ocean Theater, the first-ever children’s theater at sea - complete with a stage and curtains, audience seating and state-of-the-art production equipment - where children of all ages can learn about theatrical productions, take part in talent shows, or sign up for hip hop dance classes.
The teen-only spaces will be located one deck above the Adventure Ocean areas and adjacent to the ship’s Sports Deck, where kids can test their skills on one of the ship’s two FlowRider surf simulators; the miniature golf-course, Oasis Dunes; or the Sports Court for volleyball and basketball games. The physical separation of the teen-only spaces from younger Adventure Ocean guests will be one of the many striking enhancements implemented as a recommendation of Royal Caribbean’s Teen Advisory Board — a group of teens recruited last year to identify what youths between the ages of 12- and 17-years would want to see aboard future Royal Caribbean ships.
Longtime favorite Royal Caribbean teen-only spaces, Fuel disco and The Living Room, will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, only larger and more state-of-the-art. The Living Room will be the ultimate go-to hangout for teens to kick back and socialize at the “mock-tail” bar, which serves non-alcoholic sodas and juice concoctions; learn to spin and mix music in Scratch DJ 101 classes, a part of Royal Caribbean’s Scratch DJ Academy; or surf the Internet and keep in touch with friends via the bank of computer stations dedicated to the space. Teens also will be able to kick it up a notch at Fuel, a disco which will feature a hip environment, where they can hang out with friends, and a dance floor, where they can show off their moves. A spacious outdoor deck adjacent to these venues will give teens more opportunities to make new friends while on their cruise vacation.
In addition to the areas within the Youth Zone and teen-only spots aboard Oasis of the Seas, special attractions for children of all ages also will be located throughout the ship’ other neighborhoods. Along the Boardwalk, kids and teens will be able to shop at retail stores tailored to their interests, and infants and toddlers can ride the Carousel with their parents or enjoy the climbing and play space modeled after a 50’s-style gas station next to the popular Johnny Rockets restaurant. The lively Challengers Arcade also will return aboard Oasis of the Seas, and will be decked out with the latest video games sure to entertain kids and teens. In the Vitality Spa and Fitness Zone, teens and tweens can enjoy a menu of spa options specially tailored for them in a dedicated space at the Vitality at Sea Spa.
A diverse selection of activities for families and guests of all ages will be found in all of the neighborhoods throughout Oasis of the Seas. Family-friendly innovations range from the industry’s first amphitheater, the AquaTheater, featuring theatrical diving performances and spectacular water and light shows; the first zip line at sea stretching 82 feet in length and suspended nine decks above the exciting Boardwalk area; and in the Pool & Sports Zone, the H2O Zone aquapark with its toddler pool and the first beach pool at sea, featuring a true-to-form sloped entry and colorful beach chairs and umbrellas to give guests the ultimate beach experience.
When she launches in November 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Princess Cruises' Ruby Princess - A Whole Lota' New
When Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess launches on Nov. 8, the ship will introduce a host of new shipboard services and special features. Among the new options is a pub lunch, an exclusive breakfast for suite passengers, enrichment programs from astronomy to mixology, two new stage shows, and expanded wireless Internet and cell phone connectivity. The 3,070-passenger vessel will also feature the favorites aboard sister ships Crown Princess and Emerald Princess.
Among the new features being introduced on Ruby Princess is a pub lunch in the Wheelhouse Bar. On sea days, the Wheelhouse Bar will serve traditional British pub fare, including bangers and mash, fish and chips, ploughman’s lunch and cottage pie. Traditional pub brews such as Stella Artois, Bass Ale or Guinness will be served. The pub lunch meal service is free and will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Suite passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive breakfast in Sabatini’s, the line’s trademark Italian eatery. Beginning with a “Good Morning Mimosa,” the menu features a variety of breakfast favorites, plus specialty items such as brioche French toast with apple-and-cinnamon compote, yogurt and super granola parfait with raspberry swirl, soft-poached egg over potato and vegetables with hollandaise sauce, and freshly made Belgian waffles. Suite passengers can enjoy this from approximately 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Vines, the wine bar in the atrium, will now feature a selection of domestic and imported artisan cheeses, in addition to more than 30 wines by the glass and seafood appetizers. Twelve varieties -- including unique choices such as boschetto al tartufo bianchetto, reblochon and cambozola -- will be featured each day for a nominal fee. Vines will also host a series of events where passengers can meet members of the ship’s staff, and will continue to offer wine flights and parings. A number of new ScholarShip@Sea enrichment programs will debut aboard Ruby Princess, including party-planning tips from lifestyle expert Susie Coelho via a multimedia presentation hosted by the cruise director. Navigation@Sea focuses on the history of navigation as well as the complexities of plotting the route of a modern cruise ship, with a presentation by the ship’s navigator. Mixology@Sea is a hands-on course taught by the ship’s bar manager. For star gazers, the new Astronomy@Sea program allows passengers to explore the night sky through a telescope on the top deck, with the guidance of a ship’s bridge officer.
Ruby Princess will present two new Princess-produced shows in the ship’s theater. “Broadway Ballroom” presents the music of the Great White Way with a ballroom flair, pairing the songs of hit musicals with dance numbers ranging from foxtrot to rumba. The show also features the talents of a costume designer and choreographer from the TV hit “Dancing with the Stars.” Meanwhile, “Once Upon a Dream” uses multidimensional cinematic projection to follow a dreamscape. The audience will accompany a young woman’s journey as she dreams of everything from a tea party in an English garden to singing camels in the desert, and even a trip through a waterfall and brief nightmare before waking to a new day. A variety of new audience-participation events will also debut on the ship. Karaoke fans can go a bit farther with “Love Boat Legends,” where they are actually transformed into a famous artist of the past. “So You Wanna Be A Rock Star?” moves beyond pre-recorded karaoke tunes to give audience members the opportunity to rock with a live band on stage. “Oceans of Talent” puts passenger talent center stage, whether they play a musical instrument or try out their comedic timing. “The Wake Up Show” takes Princess’ morning show with the cruise director to a new level with an irreverent talk show format, live band, special guests and an opportunity for passengers to join the studio audience, as the show is taped in the evening before its broadcast the next morning.
A number of new service touches will be introduced. In the Horizon Court buffet, new waffle stations will offer cooked-to-order waffles at breakfast and throughout lunchtime, and the buffet will also begin serving complimentary lemonade as a beverage choice. In the evening, passengers will find a selection of canapés in several of the ship’s public lounges. Passengers arriving back from shore will be greeted with chilled face cloths, and, by the pool, misting stewards will offer a quick spritz with Evian. Young passengers can enjoy a new Wizards Academy, an exclusive presentation from the California Science Center. This program lets children explore the connection between science and magic in a fun and participative environment. Kids will also enjoy activities and projects from arts and crafts company Klutz, or participate in Yoga for Kids, a course designed specifically for children.
Expanding on Princess’ Internet and phone connectivity, Ruby Princess will offer laptop users additional wireless hotspots around the vessel, including staterooms. The ship will also be equipped so that passengers can use their personal cellular phones, if they have international roaming plans, while onboard. A new opportunity to experience an array of back-of-house areas, the Ultimate Ship Tour takes passengers beyond the public areas with visits to the engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab, funnel, bridge and other spaces. Participants will receive themed mementos at many of the stops along the route. The Ruby Princess will feature an inaugural season of Western Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, followed by a program of Mediterranean voyages in summer 2009.
All in all, there are bountiful of new options coming to Princess. Now may be the time to take a look at this great ship. Call me for special rates and pricing. (877) CRUISE1 / (706) 579-5005
Among the new features being introduced on Ruby Princess is a pub lunch in the Wheelhouse Bar. On sea days, the Wheelhouse Bar will serve traditional British pub fare, including bangers and mash, fish and chips, ploughman’s lunch and cottage pie. Traditional pub brews such as Stella Artois, Bass Ale or Guinness will be served. The pub lunch meal service is free and will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Suite passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive breakfast in Sabatini’s, the line’s trademark Italian eatery. Beginning with a “Good Morning Mimosa,” the menu features a variety of breakfast favorites, plus specialty items such as brioche French toast with apple-and-cinnamon compote, yogurt and super granola parfait with raspberry swirl, soft-poached egg over potato and vegetables with hollandaise sauce, and freshly made Belgian waffles. Suite passengers can enjoy this from approximately 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Vines, the wine bar in the atrium, will now feature a selection of domestic and imported artisan cheeses, in addition to more than 30 wines by the glass and seafood appetizers. Twelve varieties -- including unique choices such as boschetto al tartufo bianchetto, reblochon and cambozola -- will be featured each day for a nominal fee. Vines will also host a series of events where passengers can meet members of the ship’s staff, and will continue to offer wine flights and parings. A number of new ScholarShip@Sea enrichment programs will debut aboard Ruby Princess, including party-planning tips from lifestyle expert Susie Coelho via a multimedia presentation hosted by the cruise director. Navigation@Sea focuses on the history of navigation as well as the complexities of plotting the route of a modern cruise ship, with a presentation by the ship’s navigator. Mixology@Sea is a hands-on course taught by the ship’s bar manager. For star gazers, the new Astronomy@Sea program allows passengers to explore the night sky through a telescope on the top deck, with the guidance of a ship’s bridge officer.
Ruby Princess will present two new Princess-produced shows in the ship’s theater. “Broadway Ballroom” presents the music of the Great White Way with a ballroom flair, pairing the songs of hit musicals with dance numbers ranging from foxtrot to rumba. The show also features the talents of a costume designer and choreographer from the TV hit “Dancing with the Stars.” Meanwhile, “Once Upon a Dream” uses multidimensional cinematic projection to follow a dreamscape. The audience will accompany a young woman’s journey as she dreams of everything from a tea party in an English garden to singing camels in the desert, and even a trip through a waterfall and brief nightmare before waking to a new day. A variety of new audience-participation events will also debut on the ship. Karaoke fans can go a bit farther with “Love Boat Legends,” where they are actually transformed into a famous artist of the past. “So You Wanna Be A Rock Star?” moves beyond pre-recorded karaoke tunes to give audience members the opportunity to rock with a live band on stage. “Oceans of Talent” puts passenger talent center stage, whether they play a musical instrument or try out their comedic timing. “The Wake Up Show” takes Princess’ morning show with the cruise director to a new level with an irreverent talk show format, live band, special guests and an opportunity for passengers to join the studio audience, as the show is taped in the evening before its broadcast the next morning.
A number of new service touches will be introduced. In the Horizon Court buffet, new waffle stations will offer cooked-to-order waffles at breakfast and throughout lunchtime, and the buffet will also begin serving complimentary lemonade as a beverage choice. In the evening, passengers will find a selection of canapés in several of the ship’s public lounges. Passengers arriving back from shore will be greeted with chilled face cloths, and, by the pool, misting stewards will offer a quick spritz with Evian. Young passengers can enjoy a new Wizards Academy, an exclusive presentation from the California Science Center. This program lets children explore the connection between science and magic in a fun and participative environment. Kids will also enjoy activities and projects from arts and crafts company Klutz, or participate in Yoga for Kids, a course designed specifically for children.
Expanding on Princess’ Internet and phone connectivity, Ruby Princess will offer laptop users additional wireless hotspots around the vessel, including staterooms. The ship will also be equipped so that passengers can use their personal cellular phones, if they have international roaming plans, while onboard. A new opportunity to experience an array of back-of-house areas, the Ultimate Ship Tour takes passengers beyond the public areas with visits to the engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab, funnel, bridge and other spaces. Participants will receive themed mementos at many of the stops along the route. The Ruby Princess will feature an inaugural season of Western Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, followed by a program of Mediterranean voyages in summer 2009.
All in all, there are bountiful of new options coming to Princess. Now may be the time to take a look at this great ship. Call me for special rates and pricing. (877) CRUISE1 / (706) 579-5005
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
World's Largest Cruise Night - Oct. 16, 2008
October 16, 2008 will be billed as the "World's Largest Cruise Night" by CLIA (Cruise Line Industry Association). There are some terrific deals to be had by most of all the major cruise lines. Please click the link below to see these deals:
"World's Largest Cruise Night"
Call me to book or to inquire about these deals - Mike Ziegenbalg, 877-CRUISE1
"World's Largest Cruise Night"
Call me to book or to inquire about these deals - Mike Ziegenbalg, 877-CRUISE1
Don't miss our "Exclusive Savings".
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Carnival reopens Puerta Maya and Grand Turk Cruise Center
Carnival Corp.’s pier at Puerta Maya in Cozumel, Mexico -- closed since being damaged by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 -- will officially reopen when the Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Fantasy visit on Oct. 16. Representing an investment of more than $50 million, the new two-berth pier has been constructed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane and can accommodate any ship among Carnival Corp.’s cruise brands. In addition to the newly rebuilt pier, Puerta Maya’s nine-acre cruise center, which features a wide variety of shops and restaurants, will also reopen, along with a four-acre transportation hub capable of accommodating dozens of taxis and tour buses. Four rental car facilities will be available as well.
The Oct. 16 calls by the Carnival Fantasy and Ecstasy will be the first of 550 cruise ship visits at Puerta Maya over the next year. In addition to calling at Puerta Maya, vessels from Carnival Corp. brands will continue to utilize the other two piers in Cozumel. Collectively, these ships will bring annually to Cozumel an estimated 1.5 million visitors, who are expected to spend $126 million on the island each year. Puerta Maya’s cruise center houses 42 outlets offering apparel, fine jewelry, artwork and other merchandise from such recognizable retailers as Goodmark Jewelers, Del Sol, Piranha Joe’s, Dufry and Diamonds International. The facility also features 15 stand-alone carts where local merchants market handmade crafts, costume jewelry and souvenirs. On-site dining options within the Puerta Maya complex include the Tres Amigos Bar, a new theme restaurant inspired by the 1986 hit movie starring Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short. The waterfront eatery -- the first of its kind in the Caribbean -- offers traditional Mexican fare, along with an extensive beverage menu.
Also featured is Pancho’s Backyard, a new franchise from the downtown Cozumel eatery featuring ocean views, as well as Fat Tuesday, a waterfront bar offering frozen drinks and light snacks, along with a DJ and dance floor. Other retail outlets at Puerta Maya include a pharmacy, convenience store and international pay phones. There is also a newly constructed shore excursion pier, separate from the main pier, which allows for quick and convenient access to water-bound excursions, as well as water-based transportation to and from the facility. The Puerta Maya pier and cruise center is located on the southwestern part of Cozumel, approximately five miles south of San Miguel, the island’s largest city.
The Grand Turk Cruise Center on Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, closed since Hurricane Ike slammed the island on Sept. 6, reopened Oct. 8 with the arrival of the 2,642-passenger Carnival Destiny.
Cruise passengers swam in the center's massive pool, sunbathed on the 800-foot-long private beach and dined at the on-site Margaritaville restaurant and lounge.
Shops at the 13-acre site reopened as well.
Shore excursions were available, including a tour of Gibbs Cay, an offshore snorkeling sot; dune buggy rentals; swimming with horses; and fishing and snorkeling expeditions.
The island's former hop on/hop off bus tour currently is operating as a post-hurricane island tour. Guests are charged a nominal fee for the tour and are given a pledge card if they wish to donate to the United Way's Grand Turk hurricane relief fund.
The $60 million Grand Turk Cruise Center, operated by Carnival Corp., opened in 2006 and is the largest private employer on the island. Cruise center staff, along with shore excursion operators, comprise approximately 80% of non-government jobs on Grand Turk.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Disney Cruise Lines to Europe for 2010
Disney Cruise Line (DCL) said it will reposition one of its ships, Disney Magic, to Europe for a five-month season of Northern European and Mediterranean cruises in 2010. For the first time, DCL will offer a 12-night Northern European Capitals cruise, where guests can experience fjords, city centers and Viking lore in such Scandinavian ports as Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm. The ship will also sail to Warnemunde, Germany, gateway to Berlin, and to St. Petersburg, Russia. Disney Magic will overnight in St. Petersburg, allowing guests time to experience the city known as the “Cultural Capital of Russia” or use the second day to book a shore excursion to Moscow.“The Northern European Capitals itinerary provides our guests with an amazing collection of destinations to explore,” said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin. “We’re excited to bring the rich history, culture and folklore these ports offer to life for our guests in a family-friendly way only Disney Cruise Line can deliver.”
Departing out of Dover, England, Disney Magic will sail a total of four 12-night cruises to the Northern European capitals in June and July 2010. Book-ending the summer season in Northern Europe, Disney Magic will once again return to the Mediterranean with 10- and 11-night cruises, but with three new ports of call not offered when DCL last sailed the Mediterranean. In addition to popular ports in Italy, France and Spain, the Disney Magic will visit Tunis, in Northern Africa, the island nation of Malta, and Corsica, the island that was the birthplace of Napoleon.
Departing out of Barcelona, Spain, the Disney Magic will sail four 10-night and four 11-night cruises in the Mediterranean in April, May, August and September. DCL will also offer four repositioning cruises including two 14-night transatlantic voyages, a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Dover, England, and an eight-night cruise from Dover back to Barcelona.
While Disney Magic cruises Europe in 2010, Disney Wonder will shift to four- and five-night cruises sailing to Nassau, Key West and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The shift is designed to accommodate guests looking for slightly longer cruises with DCL while children are enjoying their summer break. Guests will be able to book all DCL itineraries for the 2010 season beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Carnival Cruise Lines to add New Balcony Staterooms to Three Ships
Carnival Cruise Lines will add balconies to a number of cabins on three ships during upcoming drydocks over the next few months.
Staterooms on the Carnival Destiny, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Liberty that currently feature floor-to-ceiling windows will be retrofitted with private balconies, creating a total of 48 additional 230-square-foot veranda staterooms.
Also, two new 750-square-foot "deluxe penthouse suites" -- nearly double the size of the largest staterooms in the fleet -- will be added to the Carnival Liberty. The new deluxe penthouse suites will be the largest in the "Fun Ship" fleet and feature a new cabin configuration with a separate bedroom, living area and two full bathrooms, including one with a bathtub.
Located on the ship's forward section on Deck 9, the deluxe penthouse suites can accommodate up to five guests and include two twin beds that convert to a king, a sofa bed and two pull-down upper beds.
"Balcony staterooms continue to be in great demand -- in fact, they're often the first cabin category to sell out," said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival's executive vice president of marketing and guest experience.
As an added amenity, Carnival balcony accommodations feature terrycloth robes for guest use during their cruise.
The new balcony staterooms on the three vessels are now available for sale.
Staterooms on the Carnival Destiny, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Liberty that currently feature floor-to-ceiling windows will be retrofitted with private balconies, creating a total of 48 additional 230-square-foot veranda staterooms.
Also, two new 750-square-foot "deluxe penthouse suites" -- nearly double the size of the largest staterooms in the fleet -- will be added to the Carnival Liberty. The new deluxe penthouse suites will be the largest in the "Fun Ship" fleet and feature a new cabin configuration with a separate bedroom, living area and two full bathrooms, including one with a bathtub.
Located on the ship's forward section on Deck 9, the deluxe penthouse suites can accommodate up to five guests and include two twin beds that convert to a king, a sofa bed and two pull-down upper beds.
"Balcony staterooms continue to be in great demand -- in fact, they're often the first cabin category to sell out," said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival's executive vice president of marketing and guest experience.
As an added amenity, Carnival balcony accommodations feature terrycloth robes for guest use during their cruise.
The new balcony staterooms on the three vessels are now available for sale.
Friday, October 3, 2008
MSC Cruises Offers Discounts to Baby Boomers and Seniors
MSC Cruises is offering discounts to baby boomers and seniors on its Caribbean cruises.
Boomers and seniors can save at least 50% and take the kids/grandkids along for free with the line's "Kids Sail Free" policy.
Saver prices for boomers/seniors on all 2009-10 Caribbean sailings of MSC Lirica and MSC Orchestra begin at just $449 per person, double occupancy (cruise only, not including government fees and taxes and fuel surcharge) on 7-night itineraries and $749 on 10-night itineraries. At least one guest in the stateroom must be 50 years of age on the departure date and bookings must be made by May 1, 2009.
For more information about MSC Cruises and special Boomer/Senior Saver rates, visit http://www.cruisesbymike.com/ or call me at (706) 579-5005 / (877) CRUISE1
Boomers and seniors can save at least 50% and take the kids/grandkids along for free with the line's "Kids Sail Free" policy.
Saver prices for boomers/seniors on all 2009-10 Caribbean sailings of MSC Lirica and MSC Orchestra begin at just $449 per person, double occupancy (cruise only, not including government fees and taxes and fuel surcharge) on 7-night itineraries and $749 on 10-night itineraries. At least one guest in the stateroom must be 50 years of age on the departure date and bookings must be made by May 1, 2009.
For more information about MSC Cruises and special Boomer/Senior Saver rates, visit http://www.cruisesbymike.com/ or call me at (706) 579-5005 / (877) CRUISE1
-Also from MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises’ Balcony Blowout promotion offers discounts of more than 60 percent on select Saturday departures of MSC Orchestra this winter when booked by Oct. 13. Cruise-only balcony rates on select seven-night Caribbean sailings begin at $749 per person, double occupancy (government fees and taxes and fuel surcharge are additional). The limited-time rates are available on an Eastern Caribbean cruise departing March 28, and Western Caribbean voyages departing Jan. 10, Jan. 24, March 7 and March 21. As with all MSC Cruises’ sailings, kids under the age of 17 sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults (government fees and taxes are additional). This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Restrictions apply and the offer is capacity controlled.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Norwegian Cruise Line News
An agreement for Star Cruises to sell the Norwegian Dream to Louis Group lapsed on Sept. 29. Star Cruises announced in Hong Kong that it called off the $218 million sale and is seeking legal recourse, Reuters reported on Sept. 30. Louis announced it cancelled the sale “due to technical issues relating to the vessel.” Louis did conclude the purchase of the Norwegian Majesty, which was chartered back to Star until Dec. 1, 2009. Louis will continue implementing its fleet renewal program, with the pursuit of alternative solutions. Star shares 50-50 ownership of NCL Corp. with Apollo Management.
In other related NCL news...
Norwegian Cruise Line was featured on Tuesday night’s new ABC primetime game show, “Opportunity Knocks.” The company offered a California family of five the chance to win a seven-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera aboard the Norwegian Star. NCL will be featured on future episodes of the nationally-aired family game show.
In other related NCL news...
Norwegian Cruise Line was featured on Tuesday night’s new ABC primetime game show, “Opportunity Knocks.” The company offered a California family of five the chance to win a seven-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera aboard the Norwegian Star. NCL will be featured on future episodes of the nationally-aired family game show.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Royal Caribbean WOW Sale!
Royal Caribbean is hosting their incredible WOW Sale again!
The sale will be on Thursday, October 2, for one day only.
The sale will include, 50% off deposits, onboard credits ranging from $50 per cabin for sailings of 3-5 nights, $100 per cabin for sailings of 6-9 nights, and $200 per cabin for sailings of 10+ nights! Applicable on ALL future Royal Caribbean sailings! The sale will not be combinable with any other type of benefit, including Crown & Anchor benefits, Future (Onboard) Cruise bookings. Applicable for new bookings only. For Sailings 01/01/09 - 12/31/09 Only.
This is one of Royal Caribbean's biggest sales of the year. Don't miss out! Call me now!!
Mike at CruiseOne - (706) 579-5005, (877) CRUISE1
The sale will be on Thursday, October 2, for one day only.
The sale will include, 50% off deposits, onboard credits ranging from $50 per cabin for sailings of 3-5 nights, $100 per cabin for sailings of 6-9 nights, and $200 per cabin for sailings of 10+ nights! Applicable on ALL future Royal Caribbean sailings! The sale will not be combinable with any other type of benefit, including Crown & Anchor benefits, Future (Onboard) Cruise bookings. Applicable for new bookings only. For Sailings 01/01/09 - 12/31/09 Only.
This is one of Royal Caribbean's biggest sales of the year. Don't miss out! Call me now!!
Mike at CruiseOne - (706) 579-5005, (877) CRUISE1
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Are You Taking Advantage of the Suite Life?
The Suite Life!
Suites range from deluxe to “over the top” in terms of size and amenities. Here are some reasons why there should be a suite in your cruising future.
Room Size and Configurations
Size does matter and there’s more of it in a suite. Some people claim, “We don’t spend a lot of time in our cabin”. But imagine relaxing in your private enclave complete with private balcony, butler and ultra-plush furnishings!
Suite size can range from spacious to outrageous – As an example on Regent Seven Seas’ all-suite, all- balcony Seven Sean Mariner accommodations run from 301 sq. ft for a Deluxe Suite to 1204 sq. ft. for a Master Suite not including the private balcony.
On NCL’s Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn there are 10 penthouse suites that share a private courtyard, complete with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a small gym. These are only eclipsed by NCL’s signature Garden Villas with over 5000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living area including 3 bedrooms!
Imagine cruising down the picturesque rivers of Europe on a Uniworld river boat suite featuring a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, three floor-to-ceiling windows and an extra-spacious bathroom.
Suite accommodations on cruise ships rival the amenities of world-class hotels. For example Oceania Cruises suites offer sumptuously comfortable twin or queen sized “comfort beds”, a large living area, an intimate area for private in-suite dining, a refrigerated mini bar and ample closet space.
Enhanced Services
Luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises provide Butler and Concierge Service to their top categories In addition many of the contemporary and premium cruise lines such as Holland America, Celebrity and NCL offer similar services.
Be decadent in one of Crystal Cruises Penthouse Suites by dining in your bathrobe and slippers. Choose from a full selection of delectable dishes from the In-Suite Dining menu, order from the evening's menu in the Crystal Dining Room, or request whatever your heart desires and the Crystal chefs will do their best to fulfill your wishes.
Princess recently upgraded their suite guest amenities to include afternoon tea and complimentary internet access, dry cleaning, laundry and shoe polishing.
Holland America’s Guests who book the Penthouse or Deluxe Verandah Suites have access to the private Neptune Lounge. This lounge features a private place to relax, socialize with other suite guests and enjoy personalized service for making reservations for shore excursions, spa services, car rentals, the exclusive Pinnacle Grill restaurant and more.
Suite guests on most lines also receive expedited cruise embarkation and early disembarkation.
Indulge your “suite” tooth – ask your Cruise Specialist today to show you just how affordable a cruising in a luxury suite can be.
Suites range from deluxe to “over the top” in terms of size and amenities. Here are some reasons why there should be a suite in your cruising future.
Room Size and Configurations
Size does matter and there’s more of it in a suite. Some people claim, “We don’t spend a lot of time in our cabin”. But imagine relaxing in your private enclave complete with private balcony, butler and ultra-plush furnishings!
Suite size can range from spacious to outrageous – As an example on Regent Seven Seas’ all-suite, all- balcony Seven Sean Mariner accommodations run from 301 sq. ft for a Deluxe Suite to 1204 sq. ft. for a Master Suite not including the private balcony.
On NCL’s Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn there are 10 penthouse suites that share a private courtyard, complete with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a small gym. These are only eclipsed by NCL’s signature Garden Villas with over 5000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living area including 3 bedrooms!
Imagine cruising down the picturesque rivers of Europe on a Uniworld river boat suite featuring a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, three floor-to-ceiling windows and an extra-spacious bathroom.
Suite accommodations on cruise ships rival the amenities of world-class hotels. For example Oceania Cruises suites offer sumptuously comfortable twin or queen sized “comfort beds”, a large living area, an intimate area for private in-suite dining, a refrigerated mini bar and ample closet space.
Enhanced Services
Luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises provide Butler and Concierge Service to their top categories In addition many of the contemporary and premium cruise lines such as Holland America, Celebrity and NCL offer similar services.
Be decadent in one of Crystal Cruises Penthouse Suites by dining in your bathrobe and slippers. Choose from a full selection of delectable dishes from the In-Suite Dining menu, order from the evening's menu in the Crystal Dining Room, or request whatever your heart desires and the Crystal chefs will do their best to fulfill your wishes.
Princess recently upgraded their suite guest amenities to include afternoon tea and complimentary internet access, dry cleaning, laundry and shoe polishing.
Holland America’s Guests who book the Penthouse or Deluxe Verandah Suites have access to the private Neptune Lounge. This lounge features a private place to relax, socialize with other suite guests and enjoy personalized service for making reservations for shore excursions, spa services, car rentals, the exclusive Pinnacle Grill restaurant and more.
Suite guests on most lines also receive expedited cruise embarkation and early disembarkation.
Indulge your “suite” tooth – ask your Cruise Specialist today to show you just how affordable a cruising in a luxury suite can be.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
All You Need to Know About Cruising During Hurricane Season
Well, it’s that time of year again when we all start talking about hurricane season. Will it be an easy season? Will it be bad? Who knows?
We’ve already kicked off the season with Hurricane Fay, which brought heavy torrential rains and floods to most of Central and Northeastern Florida. The rain bands even touched north to some of Georgia and North Carolina with down pours and floods. Hurricane Gustov gave New Orleans quite a fright with mandatory evacuations, althought it looks like they might be spared the worst of it. With these two storms already under our belt, what will the rest of hurricane season hold for us?
The thing with hurricane season is, you cannot stop your life for it, and as discount seekers know, some of the best cruise fares to the Caribbean can be found during hurricane season, especially during the peak period, which runs from mid-August through early-October. But do you take a gamble and plan a Caribbean cruise vacation during that time? The answer is Yes! For starters, the chances of your particular voyage being affected by a hurricane are very slim, but it is a possibility, so you need to be prepared.
There is always the potential that your cruise itinerary may be impacted by a storm, but there is not much of a chance you’ll be put in harm’s way. Today’s modern ships come equipped with state-of-the-art satellite equipment to follow the paths of storms and head away from the storm track. Of course do keep in mind, hurricane season is not the time of year to plan a wedding on a particular island or any event, for that matter, that must take place in a particular scheduled port. Itineraries can be disrupted by even the mere threat of a storm.
The most important precaution you can take when considering a cruise during hurricane season is to buy cruise insurance, but make sure the policy covers disruption in case of weather-related events. Insurance is your protection so you don’t loose the money you invested in your cruise, and it is worth the nominal amount it costs.
CruiseOne offers a variety of insurance plans to accommodate all of your needs plus we offer all the major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service.
We’ve already kicked off the season with Hurricane Fay, which brought heavy torrential rains and floods to most of Central and Northeastern Florida. The rain bands even touched north to some of Georgia and North Carolina with down pours and floods. Hurricane Gustov gave New Orleans quite a fright with mandatory evacuations, althought it looks like they might be spared the worst of it. With these two storms already under our belt, what will the rest of hurricane season hold for us?
The thing with hurricane season is, you cannot stop your life for it, and as discount seekers know, some of the best cruise fares to the Caribbean can be found during hurricane season, especially during the peak period, which runs from mid-August through early-October. But do you take a gamble and plan a Caribbean cruise vacation during that time? The answer is Yes! For starters, the chances of your particular voyage being affected by a hurricane are very slim, but it is a possibility, so you need to be prepared.
There is always the potential that your cruise itinerary may be impacted by a storm, but there is not much of a chance you’ll be put in harm’s way. Today’s modern ships come equipped with state-of-the-art satellite equipment to follow the paths of storms and head away from the storm track. Of course do keep in mind, hurricane season is not the time of year to plan a wedding on a particular island or any event, for that matter, that must take place in a particular scheduled port. Itineraries can be disrupted by even the mere threat of a storm.
The most important precaution you can take when considering a cruise during hurricane season is to buy cruise insurance, but make sure the policy covers disruption in case of weather-related events. Insurance is your protection so you don’t loose the money you invested in your cruise, and it is worth the nominal amount it costs.
CruiseOne offers a variety of insurance plans to accommodate all of your needs plus we offer all the major cruise lines, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
CruiseOne Charters New Celebrity Solstice
(Jasper, GA) – 08/07/08 - CruiseOne, the largest independent cruise only franchise agency, has chartered the first exclusive 2-night sailing onboard the brand new Celebrity Solstice. This extraordinary experience is only available through CruiseOne.
Be the first to discover an unparalleled class of ship with features you’ve only dreamed of. This weekend discovery cruise is the perfect way to experience all this new ship has to offer at an amazing price.
This exclusive 2-night sailing will depart Fort Lauderdale on Friday, November 21st and return on Sunday, November 23rd. Prices start at $329 per person. Book by August 31, 2008 and receive an instant upgrade from an Inside stateroom to a Deluxe Veranda. You’ll also receive a free future cruise credit worth up to $300. Groups are welcome and will receive a special offer for ten or more staterooms.
See the NEW "CELEBRITY SOLSTICE" Video Here!
Guests on this exclusive Celebrity Solstice sailing will experience a series of brand-defining, first-in-the-industry features onboard, including a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass, a glassblowing show and studio developed with The Corning Museum of Glass. Guests also will experience unrivaled dining venues offering trendsetting cuisine and design, and widely varied entertainment, including new theater productions in partnership with Poet Theatricals. The 2,850-guest vessel also has staterooms 15 percent larger than those on previous Celebrity ships, 90 percent of which will be outside, and 85 percent of all staterooms will have verandas. Celebrity has also added a new stateroom category, the AquaClass stateroom. Sharing a deck with the AquaClass Relaxation room, it incorporates select spa elements into the staterooms, allows for specialized access to spa amenities and the Spa Concierge, and features assigned seating at the deliciously unique Blu.
To book this exclusive 2-night sailing on the brand new Celebrity Solstice please call Mike Ziegenbalg, Your Independent Cruise Specialist, at (706) 579-5005, or toll free (877) CRUISE1, or visit my website at http://www.cruisesbymike.com/ , or click HERE.
Guests on this exclusive Celebrity Solstice sailing will experience a series of brand-defining, first-in-the-industry features onboard, including a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass, a glassblowing show and studio developed with The Corning Museum of Glass. Guests also will experience unrivaled dining venues offering trendsetting cuisine and design, and widely varied entertainment, including new theater productions in partnership with Poet Theatricals. The 2,850-guest vessel also has staterooms 15 percent larger than those on previous Celebrity ships, 90 percent of which will be outside, and 85 percent of all staterooms will have verandas. Celebrity has also added a new stateroom category, the AquaClass stateroom. Sharing a deck with the AquaClass Relaxation room, it incorporates select spa elements into the staterooms, allows for specialized access to spa amenities and the Spa Concierge, and features assigned seating at the deliciously unique Blu.
To book this exclusive 2-night sailing on the brand new Celebrity Solstice please call Mike Ziegenbalg, Your Independent Cruise Specialist, at (706) 579-5005, or toll free (877) CRUISE1, or visit my website at http://www.cruisesbymike.com/ , or click HERE.
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