Cruise News by Cruisemates

2-21-12
Silversea Launches New Fares and Generous Onboard Spending Credits on Selected 2012 Voyages
Complimentary Business Class Flights with Selected 2012 Voyages

Leading cruise operator Silversea, renowned for its ultra-luxurious ships and exotic destinations, has announced new fares on select voyages sailing from March to November 2012. The new fares, which start from £2,299, will be available on voyages spanning the globe fromAfrica, Alaska and the Americas to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe and include generous onboard spending credits of up to $1,000 per suite . The credits can be used towards a wide range of onboard purchases, including shore excursions, spa treatments and dining. A sample of 2012 voyages offering the new fares include:

• Silver Explorer departs Colón, Panama on 4 April 2012 for a 10-day expedition cruise to Barbados with calls in San Blas Island, Cartagena,Santa Maria, Los Roques, Port of Spain and Bequia. Fares from £1,999.
• Silver Shadow departs Vancouver on 7 June 2012 for a 7-day sailing to Seward with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Fares from £2,299 and include an onboard spending credit of $500 per suite.
• Silver Wind departs Athens on 24 September 2012 for a 7-day sailing to Venice with calls in Monemvasia, Corfu, Kotor and Split. Fares from £2,299 and include an onboard spending credit of $500 per suite.

A full list of voyages can be found at: http://www.silversea.com/specialoffers/?specialoffer=12846

Also new for 2012 is the offer of complimentary Business Class return flights on a selection of Silversea's Mediterranean and Northern European voyages throughout 2012. The offer will ensure that guests feel rested, relaxed and completely pampered before even boarding their Silversea ship. Having arrived at the departure destination in true style, guests will step on board for an elite and intimate Silversea experience with fewer passengers and superior levels of personalised service.

Award-winning all-suite accommodation, butler service and all-inclusive indulgences, such as gourmet cuisine inspired by Relais & Châteaux, combinewith itineraries to the most vibrant and intriguing of destinations. Silversea's smaller ships allow access to rarely seen harbours off the beaten track and can also dock right in the heart of a city rather than anchoring offshore, allowing guests more time to explore.

Silversea's complimentary Business Class flight offer is available with select voyages from various U.K. gateways for a limited time only and subject to availability. Voyage prices start from £2,599 per person based on a 7-day itinerary.

Complimentary Business Class Air is offered on the below 2012 Silversea voyages:

8 May Monte Carlo to Rouen: Silver Cloud (12 days) - £3,599
20 May Rouen to Copenhagen: Silver Cloud (10 days) - £2,999
30 May Copenhagen to London: Silver Cloud (12 days) - £3,699
18 Jun Copenhagen to St. Petersburg: Silver Whisper (7 days) - £2,599
25 Jun St. Petersburg to Copenhagen: Silver Whisper (7 days) - £2,699
30 Aug Copenhagen to Stockholm: Silver Whisper (7 days) - £2,799
5 Sep Barcelona to Civitavecchia, Rome: Silver Cloud (9 days) - £3,099
8 Oct Istanbul to Piraeus, Athens: Silver Spirit (7 days) - £2,599
10 Oct Istanbul to Piraeus, Athens: Silver Wind (9 days) - £2,899
15 Oct Piraeus, Athens to Civitavecchia: Silver Spirit (7 days) - £2,599

22 Oct Civitavecchia, Rome to Barcelona: Silver Spirit (7 days) - £2,599
29 Oct Barcelona to Las Palmas: Silver Spirit (9 days) - £2,999
31 Oct Istanbul to Piraeus, Athens: Silver Wind (12 days) - £3,499

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2-17-12
Paul Gauguin Cruises Completes $7 Million Renovation

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2-16-12
The New Disney Fantasy Sets Sail to Begin Her Cross-Atlantic Journey
The Disney Cruise Line updated its Disney Fantasy web page to include a video journal showcasing the ship's progress as it comes to America. The Disney Fantasy was just completed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany and delivered to the cruise line. The vessel will be christened in New York on March 1st in anticipation of her maiden voyage departing on March 31st from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Follow the video blog at Disney Cruise Line's website by clicking here.

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2-14-12
Carnival Legend to Operate Wide Array of Exciting European Cruises in 2013, Including Line's First Extended Program from UK
Schedule Features Variety of Itineraries, Including Baltic, Mediterranean, British Isles, and Norway

Carnival Cruise Lines will launch its widest array of European itineraries ever with Carnival Legend offering an exciting choice of options, including the line's first Norwegian fjords itinerary and its first extended program from the UK, as well as cruises to the Baltic, Mediterranean and British Isles, beginning in spring 2013.

Carnival Legend's schedule will encompass 12-day voyages to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic departing from Dover (London), along with 12-day Mediterranean cruises departing from Venice, Barcelona and Dover.

In total, Carnival Legend will operate 17 European cruises between April 22 and Oct. 31, 2013, visiting 34 ports across 18 countries.

"For the Carnival Legend's 2013 European season, we've assembled a truly outstanding collection of ports that offer our guests an exciting diversity of experiences, from viewing breathtaking Norwegian fjords and the lush Irish countryside to visiting centuries-old landmarks and exploring UNESCO World Heritage cities such as St. Petersburg and Tallinn," said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.

Norway/Western Europe, British Isles Cruises Round-Trip from Dover
For the first time, Carnival Legend will offer an extended series of voyages from Dover (London) with 12-day cruises to Norway/Western Europe, the British Isles and the Baltic, each offering a spectacular array of interesting and awe-inspiring ports of call, from quaint villages to cosmopolitan cities.

The program includes a "Norway & Western Europe" cruise offering a unique combination of ports, as well as the unforgettable experience of sailing the Norwegian fjords. The voyage will operate Sept. 1-13, 2013, and visit Alesund, Bergen, Stavanger, and Oslo, Norway; Hamburg, Germany; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

A "British Isles, Norway & France" voyage will depart Sept. 13, 2013, and feature stops at Stavanger, Norway; Edinburgh, Invergordon, and Glasgow (Greenock) Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

Six "Baltic Wonders & St. Petersburg" cruises will also be offered, visiting Copenhagen, Denmark; Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia (overnight call); Tallinn, Estonia; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Departure dates include June 21, July 3, 15 and 27, and Aug. 8 and 20, 2013. The June 21 departure will visit Zeebrugge (Bruges), Brussels, Belgium, instead of Amsterdam.

12-day Mediterranean Cruises
Several different Mediterranean cruises will also be offered, providing guests an opportunity to experience and explore some of the region's most popular and picturesque ports of call and enjoy a wide variety of dining, shopping and sightseeing choices.

The schedule includes 12-day cruises from Venice to Barcelona departing May 4 and 28, and Oct. 31, 2013. On these voyages, guests can tour medieval castles, sample delicious local cuisine, and marvel at ornate churches and other historic architecture as they visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Livorno, Italy; and Marseilles, France. The May 4 and Oct. 31 departures also include Athens, Greece; and Izmir, Turkey; while the May 28 voyage stops at Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Carnival Legend will also operate 12-day Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona to Dover June 9-21 and from Dover to Barcelona Sept. 25-Oct. 7, 2013. These cruises offer guests the chance to sample all the region has to offer with extended visits to stunning seaside destinations in five countries, including Marseilles, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Livorno and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Malaga, Spain; and Lisbon, Portugal.

Also featured are three "Grand Mediterranean" voyages sailing from Barcelona to Venice April 22, May 16 and Oct. 19, 2013. These voyages feature stops at Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseilles, France; Livorno, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Messina, Italy; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, along with an overnight call in Venice to provide guests with ample opportunities to explore this world-class city. The Oct. 19 voyage will include a stop at Olbia (Sardinia), Italy, instead of Monaco.

Rounding out Carnival Legend's 2013 Europe program is a 12-day voyage round-trip from Barcelona Oct. 7-19, 2013, with calls at Marseilles, France; Livorno, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Naples, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Venice (overnight call) and Messina, Italy.

15-Day Transatlantic Crossings in April and November 2013
Carnival Legend will operate a 15-day transatlantic crossing departing Tampa on April 7 and arriving Barcelona April 22, 2013. Featured ports on this voyage include King's Wharf, Bermuda; Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; and Malaga and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Following its European schedule, the ship will operate another 15-day transatlantic crossing from Barcelona to Tampa Nov. 12-27, 2013, calling at Palma de Mallorca and Malaga, Spain; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands; and the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay.

From Tampa, Carnival Legend will sail on a special four-day cruise before resuming seven-day Caribbean service Dec. 1, 2013. The week-long cruises call at Half Moon Cay; Nassau, The Bahamas; and Key West, Fla.; or George Town, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; Mahogany Bay, Roatan; and Belize City, Belize.

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2-13-12
Crystal Cruises Delves Deeper Into Christianity with New European Adventures
For its upcoming European season, ultra-luxe Crystal Cruises is offering new, interactive ways to explore the rich Christian history of the continent via new Christian Heritage Tours. Travelers cruising to the Mediterranean, western Europe, or the North Cape will have nine new opportunities to make a pilgrimage, attend mass, contribute to charitable works, or learn about the relics and architecture of centuries-old sites of religious renown, with more tours still in the works.

Among the Crystal Adventures being introduced from April to December are:

• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Make a pilgrimage into Bosnia, where reported visions of the Virgin Mary have made Medjugorje's Apparition Hill a top sacred site for Catholic pilgrims.
• Barcelona: Attend private mass with Crystal's onboard priest at Gaudi's infamous Sagrada Familia (a cruise-industry first).
• Leknes/Lofoten, Norway: Choose from three different trips to see the 18th century, wooden Russian-style Flakstad Church.
• Sorrento, Italy: Assist the 400 year-old charity brotherhood of Pio Monte della Misericordia, via a complimentary "You Care, We Care" voluntourism excursion.
• La Coruna, Spain: View the UNESCO World Heritage town of Santiago de Compostela from the rooftop of the largest Romanesque church in Spain.
• Southampton/London: See the carved, canopied choir stalls of the almost 1000 year-old Winchester Cathedral, once the seat of Anglo-Saxon and Norman royal power.

Until February 28, per-person "Book Now" fares for Crystal Symphony or Crystal Serenity's all-inclusive, luxury European cruises start at $1,360 per person/double occupancy, with attractive air add-ons from more than 90 North American airports. A one-week sale ending February 11 also offers up to $800 per stateroom in shore excursion credits on select European voyages.

Crystal Cruises' passion for creating unique luxury experiences both on land and at sea have helped earn the company top ratings from international travelers for two decades.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

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2-8-12
For Valentine's Day, Norwegian Celebrates Romance At Sea
Surprises Boston Couple Who Met On Norwegian Spirit with a Dream Honeymoon

Todd O'Neil and Erin Picard of Peabody, Mass.

This Valentine's Day, Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrating romance at sea by surprising a very special couple, Erin Picard and Todd O'Neil of Peabody, Mass., who fell in love on board Norwegian Spirit in 2010, with a dream honeymoon following their wedding this summer.

In 2010, Erin Picard was going through a very difficult time. She had just endured an extremely painful breakup and was caring for a sick grandparent, all while working tirelessly at three separate jobs as a registered nurse. Erin dedicated her life to making sure others were happy and comfortable, while silently she suffered through her own very emotional situations. To break free from it all, she and her best friend decided to take a cruise vacation on board Norwegian Spirit from Boston to Bermuda on September 10, 2010. Seven days after boarding Norwegian Spirit, Erin excitedly called her mother, Lee Bryant of New Hampshire, and exclaimed, "I met the man of her dreams on this cruise!"

Bryant recalls the phone call, "She went on to tell me how the accommodations were spectacular, and the food was amazing. She told me that the Norwegian staff was some of the nicest people she had ever met. She had had the time of her life and met her true love. Erin sounded more excited and happy than she had been her in a very long time."

Coincidentally, it was one of Norwegian's amazing team members that made this love connection happen. At the start of the cruise, O'Neil jokingly asked Bar Waiter Reynaldo "Rey" Atizado from the Philippines if he knew of any nice women on board. Rey, not skipping a beat, walked directly to Erin and her friend and introduced them to Todd and his friend, and that's where their love story began.

Two years later, Picard is marrying O'Neil, the man of her dreams and the couple couldn't be happier about it. To celebrate their incredible love story, Norwegian is sending Erin and Todd on a dream honeymoon to Europe on board Norwegian Spirit, the ship on which they met. They will visit five different countries, including Spain, Italy, France, Greece and Turkey on Norwegian Spirit's unrivaled 12-Day Grand Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona to Venice, following their July 6, 2012 nuptials.

"We are so excited to be going back on board the ship where we met and to visit such romantic destinations in Europe," said Picard. "We wouldn't have been able to take a honeymoon right now, so we are so thankful and thrilled."

For others looking to find love on the high seas, Norwegian offers cruises to Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Panama Canal and more on board 11 Freestyle Cruising ships. Guests who make a new cruise reservation from now through March 31, 2012 on any of Norwegian's sailings will receive up to a 4-category upgrade fleet-wide, reduced deposits and electronic e-coupons with on-board savings of up to $400. Between February 14, 2012 and February 17, 2012, as part of Norwegian's DASH sale, guests will also receive up to a $250 on board credit, based on stateroom category booked.

For those sailing with their sweetheart, there are many ways to spoil your special someone on board. From Romantic dinners in Norwegian's signature French restaurant, Le Bistro, to a night of dancing in any of Norwegian's many bars and lounges, to intimate couples' massages in one of the line's relaxing spas, there is no better place to celebrate love than on board a Norwegian cruise.

Romance Packages to Fall in Love With

Norwegian takes the stress out of planning the perfect Valentine's Day celebration with two romance packages to choose from including:

· The Romance Package: sparkling wine and strawberries in stateroom upon embarkation, a traditional spa pedicure and manicure for one, two 25-minute half-body Seven Seas Massages and tea service in stateroom. $249 per stateroom.

· The Deluxe Romance Package: sparkling wine and strawberries in stateroom upon embarkation, choice of Exotic Frangipani Body Nourishing Wrap or Exotic Coconut and Milk Ritual Wrap for one, two 25-minute half-body Seven Seas Massages, tea service in stateroom, breakfast in bed, a keepsake portrait, and a romantic dinner for two with a complimentary bottle of wine in Norwegian's signature restaurant, Le Bistro. $329 per stateroom.

To celebrate romance at sea with a cruise for your Valentine, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

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2-6-12
Sapphire Princess Begins Service After Extensive Makeover
Ship Now Offers Signature Princess Cruises Features, Including Piazza Atrium, Movies Under the Stars, Alfredo's Pizzeria

Sapphire Princess now features a new Piazza-style atrium.

Sapphire Princess set sail this weekend after an extensive three-week makeover to add a host of signature Princess Cruises' signature features to the ship.

Currently sailing on a cruise to Hawaii, Sapphire Princess passengers can now enjoy a brand-new Piazza atrium with the International Café and Vines wine bar, plus the new Alfredo's Pizzeria. On the top deck, the cruise ship now features a giant Movies Under the Stars screen, and passengers can also relax in the ship's "pocket of tranquility," the adults-only Sanctuary.

"Making these changes to Sapphire Princess was an important step to ensure that our signature shipboard features can be found wherever our passengers want to sail," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.

An album of photos of the renovation process is now available on Princess' Flickr page.

The many changes to Sapphire Princess include:

New Piazza Atrium – The ship's atrium space has been redesigned to include this signature Princess feature – a European-inspired social hub of the ship combining always-changing quick bites and light meals, beverages, entertainment, shopping and guest services. The Piazza features the International Café for pastries, fresh panini sandwiches, salads, fresh-baked cookies and a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers can also enjoy a new Vines wine bar offering a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass, plus a selection of tapas and sushi, and a wine shop where they can purchase their favorite bottle.

Alfredo's Pizzeria – Introduced last year aboard Grand Princess, Alfredo's has now expanded to its second location on Sapphire Princess. The sit-down pizzeria serves up an enticing menu of freshly prepared, hand-stretched, individual-size pizzas. Named for the line's master executive chef, Alfredo Marzi, the pizzeria features an open kitchen where passengers can watch chefs create their custom-made pies.

Movies Under the Stars – Sapphire Princess has become the final ship in the current Princess fleet to introduce Movies Under the Stars on board. The giant poolside movie screen now showcases feature films, concerts, awards shows and sports events, and passengers can enjoy their viewing on padded loungers under warm, fleece blankets. Complimentary popcorn and other treats enhance the al fresco entertainment experience.

The Sanctuary – Sapphire Princess was also the final ship to receive The Sanctuary, a tranquil retreat exclusively for adults. Added prior to drydock, the new Sanctuary space has already received an enthusiastic welcome from passengers enjoying the enhanced comforts of this peaceful oasis, as Serenity Stewards attend to their every need, offering refreshing beverages, light snacks, pre-loaded MP3 players, and the cooling mist of an Evian atomizer.

Also part of the ship's renovation were several relocated and upgraded venues, including the Art Gallery, Internet Café and Library, and the Photo-Video Gallery. New carpet, upholstery and tile work was added throughout the ship, and staterooms now feature new flat-screen televisions.

Sapphire Princess set sail on February 4 on a 14-day Hawaiian Islands cruise roundtrip from Los Angeles.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

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2-1-12
SeaDream Yacht Club Offers Upper-Amazon Voyage in 2013
SeaDream Yacht Club is offering a unique, 7-day voyage on the Upper-Amazon River in 2013. The voyage sails from Iquitos, Peru roundtrip, March 16 - 23, 2013. "There are currently no other luxury vessels of SeaDream's size sailing the Upper-Amazon. In addition to it being a unique itinerary, its ideal for those preferring just a week-long voyage to explore this amazingly diverse area" said SeaDream's President, Bob Lepisto.

The intermediary ports for voyage #21310 include Leticia, Columbia; Panelas, Brazil; Jutai, Brazil; Santo Antonio do Ica, Brazil; Amatura, Brazil; Monkey Island, Columbia and Pebas, Peru. SeaDream has arranged for a team of local experts to sail onboard including, naturalists, a botanist, a historian and an expedition leader. This "expedition team" will be taking guests on complimentary zodiac safaris, village walks and jungle treks in the Upper-Amazon. The team will also provide daily lectures and presentations, sharing their immense knowledge of the Amazon Rainforest and River.

Near Leticia, Colombia guests will arrive by zodiac to "Monkey Island", a sanctuary for monkeys and an opportunity to hand feed squirrel monkeys. In Panelas, Brazil guests on zodiacs will skim past massive lily pads and peer up at towering ceiba trees as they are taken to an area noted for its sloths, monkeys and Tamandua anteaters. At the end of each day's jungle adventures, guests return to their comfortable expedition base, SeaDream II.

To compliment this voyage, guests may book a pre or post land based travel program to Machu Picchu. SeaDream has teamed up with experienced local partners and together have created insightful excursions through Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu. Tours include accommodations in five-star hotels, transportation on the Orient Express luxury train, the Hiram Bingham and more. Expertly escorted by specially selected local licensed guides, these are authentic cultural experiences designed for the sophisticated traveler.

Accommodating a maximum of 112 guests, SeaDream's voyage fare includes river view accommodations, all gourmet meals, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with selected premium brands, gratuities, use of water toys, mountain bikes, golf simulator and more. For details on 2012 and 2013 Amazon voyages contact your Travel Professional, visit www.seadream.com or call (800) 707-4911.

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1-31-12
Reuters: Concordia Search for Bodies has Ended
The Reuters news agency is reporting that the search for bodies aboard the downed Costa Concordia has ended as of today, January 31. It has been more than two weeks since the cruise ship capsized against the rocks of Italian island Giglio. A local authority said conditions have become too dangerous for the search to continue.

A total of 17 bodies were recovered from the ship, and 15 people are said to be still missing. Several bodies were wearing life vests found by divers in submerged evacuation assembly points. The ship was carrying more than 4200 people, including passengers and crew, when it went down.

The ship's captain, Francesco Schettino, is under house arrest in Italy. He has been blamed for causing the accident and accused of abandoning the ship before the evacuation was complete. The ship, Costa Concordia, scraped a shoal of large rocks after Schettino steered to within 150 meters of the tiny island of Giglio. One large rock remains embedded in the hull of the ship.

Passengers have characterized the evacuation as chaotic and frightening. Some people sat in lifeboats for two hours before reaching the water and becoming free to sail away from the ship. Italy's top-ranking Coast Guard official, Marco Brusco, said last week that Schettino lost "a precious hour" which made evacuating the ship more difficult, according to the report.

Searching is set to continue in other sections of the half-submerged ship and in waters up to 18 square kilometers around the vessel, where a number of objects have been spotted which investigators believe could turn out to be bodies.

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1-31-12
Princess Cruises Wants Your Photos for New Royal Princess
Introducing the "1,000 Memories at Sea" Contest

Princess Cruises is looking for 1,000 passenger-submitted cruise vacation photos to permanently showcase aboard its new Royal Princess when the ship debuts in spring 2013.

The line has launched a "1,000 Memories at Sea" contest inviting passengers to submit their best cruise vacation shots, which will be displayed on the walls of hallways between staterooms and in other locations around the ship. In addition, one lucky photographer will win a cruise for two, including airfare, on Royal Princess.

Whether they captured the perfect Caribbean sunset, caught Alaska wildlife in action, found a breathtaking rainbow over Hawaii, or snapped a meaningful moment onboard, passengers can submit their favorite cruise photos on Facebook, at princess.com/royalprincesscontest or by mail. The "1,000 Memories at Sea" contest will be judged by a panel which is looking for creativity, originality, style, and images that capture the spirit of what it means to "escape completely." Contest judges include Rai Caluori, Princess' executive vice president of fleet operations; Teresa Anderson, the line's vice president of interior design, and Ian Johnson, director of photography and video for Princess.

"With the introduction of Royal Princess, we wanted to pay tribute to our passengers and their vacation memories made aboard our ships," said Jan Swartz, executive vice president for Princess. "This contest will be a fun opportunity for 1,000 of our passengers to be permanently recognized aboard our new ship, so they should start sifting through their travel photos now, and submit a remarkable shot to be considered."

The "1,000 Memories at Sea" contest runs through March 31, 2012 and is open to entrants 21 years of age or older, residing in the United States, Canada (excluding Quebec), the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Full entry details for the contest can be found at princess.com/royalprincesscontest.

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1-27-12
Costa Cruises Details Costa Concordia Guest Reimbursement
Costa Crociere wishes to again express its profound condolences to the families of the victims, continued sympathy to the families of the missing and deep regret and sorrow for the damages and hardship the Costa Concordia accident caused to all its guests.

Costa Crociere announced a compensation proposal for guests who have returned home after the Jan. 13 tragic Costa Concordia accident. This proposal is the result of negotiations between Costa Crociere and consumer associations protecting guests' interests, with the support of multiple tourism and travel industry associations. In Italy, the company has already reached an agreement with the National Council of Consumers and Users, a national organization.

The families of the deceased and guests who were injured and required medical treatment on site will be covered under a separate proposal that will take into account their individual circumstances.

The compensation package for Costa Concordia guests who have returned home includes:

• A lump sum of 11,000 euros (US$14,458.07 at today's exchange rate) per person as indemnification, covering all patrimonial and nonpatrimonial damages, including loss of baggage and personal effects, psychological distress and loss of enjoyment of the cruise vacation;
• Reimbursement of the value of the cruise, including harbor taxes;
• Reimbursement of air and bus transfers included in the cruise package;
• Full reimbursement of travel expenses to reach the port of embarkation and return home;
• Reimbursement of any medical expenses resulting from the cruise;
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred on board during the cruise.

This compensation package is higher than the current indemnification limits provided for in international conventions and laws currently in force. The 11,000 euro lump-sum payment is offered to all Costa Concordia passengers, including nonpaying children, regardless of their age.

Costa also has pledged not to deduct from this sum any amount paid by any insurance policy stipulated by guests. In addition, the company will return all goods stored in cabin safes, where retrieval is possible.

Costa Crociere also has pledged to provide a program for psychological assistance to any guests that request it. The company has further agreed to offer customers the ability to cancel any upcoming cruise booked before Jan. 13, on any of its routes, without penalty through Feb. 7, 2012.

Dedicated operation units will handle claims to ensure timely resolution. Payments will be credited by the company within seven days of receipt of the acceptance of the proposal. Guests should e-mail careteam@us.costa.it or call 954-266-5693 for assistance.

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1-26-12
Explorer of the Seas' Arrival Delayed Due to Medical Emergency
Explorer of the Seas' arrival to Cape Liberty has been unexpectedly delayed due to a medical emergency, and will now arrive in Bayonne, New Jersey, on Saturday, January 28, one day later than originally scheduled.

We ask that guests who are scheduled to sail on Explorer of the Season Friday, January 27 not arrive at the port until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 28. We kindly ask that guests come to the terminal between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 for check-in and boarding.

Regrettably, the delayed arrival is expected to have an impact on the scheduled itinerary. Guests will now spend Sunday, January 29, and Monday, January 30, at sea. Unfortunately, this additional day at sea will mean that the port call to Labadee, Haiti, will be cancelled. The remainder of the itinerary will remain the same.

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1-25-12
Labor Strikes Delay New Oceania Cruises RIVIERA
MIAMI, January 25, 2012 - Oceania Cruises was notified by Fincantieri late last week of construction delays and as a result, will reschedule the maiden voyage of its m/s Riviera. Construction on the 1,250-guest ship fell behind schedule when strikes at Fincantieri's shipyard near Genoa, Italy, lasted longer than expected.

The maiden voyage of Riviera has moved from April 24 to May 16, and all guests affected by the delay will be contacted by their travel agents or by Oceania Cruises directly to discuss alternative cruise dates.

"We sincerely regret any inconvenience that this may cause our guests," stated Kunal S. Kamlani, the cruise line's president. "We are working very closely with the shipyard to ensure Riviera is completed to meet Oceania's high standards of quality and service."

"We know that sophisticated international travelers are anxious to welcome Riviera and we regret that labor strikes have caused this delay," said Giuseppe Bono, Fincantieri's chief executive officer. "All of us at Fincantieri are committed to producing a superior quality ship and we will deliver a truly magnificent vessel to Oceania Cruises without further delays."

The new maiden voyage is a 10-day "Pearls of the Aegean" cruise that includes an overnight aboard ship in Venice before visiting Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Monemvasia, Crete, Santorini, Kusadasi (gateway to Ephesus), Delos, Mykonos and Athens.

Guests booked on affected sailings will have the option of rebooking another cruise and receive a future cruise credit, which ranges from $250 to $1,000 per guest, depending on category of accommodation. In the event guests do not wish to rebook, they will receive a full refund. Travel agent commissions will be protected.

For more information on Riviera or Oceania Cruises, or to order a brochure, contact a travel professional, visit www.Oceaniacruises.com or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.

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1-24-12
Norwegian Cruise Line - Interactive Facebook Contest

Fans can win one of five Norwegian cruise vacations to an amazing destination

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching an interactive Facebook contest encouraging fans to "See the World the Norwegian Way." Through March 31, 2012, participants will have a chance to win one of five incredible seven-day cruises to one of the top cruise destinations around the world. Each weekday, Norwegian will release a new contest clue on its Facebook page. Fans will have to collect responses to all five clues and then correctly answer each in order to be entered into the contest.

The exciting contest is centered on the five different destination-focused Wave season offers, including Europe; Alaska and Hawaii; Bermuda and Bahamas; and the Caribbean. During each two-week offer, Norwegian will post a question or riddle about the line's products, ports-of-call or destinations, which fans will have to solve. A new clue will be revealed every day from Monday through Friday on the dedicated "Destinations" tab. Once all five clues have been collected, participants will have the opportunity to submit their answers into the contest entry form. Those who submit correct answers to all five questions will be entered to win a cruise for two to one of Norwegian's most sought after cruise destinations.

The contest kicks off today with a two-week focus on Europe and then transitions into an Alaska & Hawaii focus on February 6; Bahamas & Florida on February 20; Caribbean on March 5; and finally a fleet-wide focus on March 19. Fans may submit one entry per each two week promotional period and are encouraged to participate in all phases of the contest. The five winners will be announced on the line's Facebook page at the beginning of April.

As part of "Norwegians Take it to the Next Level" sales event, new reservations made through March 31, 2012, can receive same category upgrades, reduced deposits and e-coupons worth up to $400 in on-board savings (for sailings taking place before December 31, 2012) on select ships.

With these coupons, guests can take advantage of some of the most popular amenities at sea. Once booked and checked in online, guests will receive electronic coupons for spa treatments, internet minutes and a complimentary dinner in a specialty restaurant.

To enter, visit Norwegian's Facebook page at www.ncl.com/facebook. To book a cruise on board one Norwegian Cruise Line's Freestyle Cruising® ships, contact a travel professional, call Norwegian at 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

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1-24-12
Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Itineraries and Ports for 2013

First-Ever Miami Departures and New European Destinations Provide More Options for Disney Cruise Line Guests

In 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time.

With the addition of the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy to the fleet of cruise ships, Disney Cruise Line is able to take more families to more destinations around the world. Disney Cruise Line has always catered to the unique vacation needs of families, and next year will be enhancing the cruise options for guests -- whether it's sun and sand in the Caribbean, outdoor adventures in Alaska or experiencing the wonders of Europe.

Highlights of the Disney Cruise Line 2013 schedule (which can be booked beginning Jan. 26, 2012) include...

Mediterranean from Barcelona

Beginning June 1, 2013, the Disney Magic returns to Europe with plenty of new twists to the Mediterranean itineraries, including a four-night option and special 12-night sailings in addition to seven-night itineraries that treat guests to the best of Europe during the three-month season.

The new 12-night sailings visit destinations such as Venice, Italy, and Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on one itinerary and Ephesus, Turkey and the Greek Isles including Athens, on another. Each itinerary will offer a sailing departing in June and another departing in July.

All itineraries depart from Barcelona, Spain, as the Disney Magic takes guests on an exciting journey of richly diverse cities, cultures and people. With romantic boulevards, bustling bazaars, iconic locations, mild climates, sun-drenched islands and the brilliant blue Mediterranean Sea, guests will enjoy a world-class family vacation with legendary Disney guest service.

Rates start at $796 per person for four-night cruises, $1,015 per person for seven-night cruises and $2,244 for 12-night cruises departing from Barcelona for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Four-night Mediterranean Getaway

Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Departure dates: July 9, Aug. 6

Seven-night Mediterranean Cruise

Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy

Departure dates: June 1, 8, Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31

12-night Mediterranean with Greece

Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Valetta, Malta

Departure dates: June 15, July 13

12-night Mediterranean with Venice

Ports: Barcelona; Nice (Villefranche), France; Florence (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Naples, Italy; Venice, Italy (overnight); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Valetta, Malta

Departure dates: June 27, July 25

Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Miami

Disney Cruise Line will sail from Miami for the first time on Dec. 23, 2012. One six- and one seven-night Caribbean sailing aboard the Disney Wonder will set the stage for a schedule of four- and five-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean between Jan. 5, 2013, and May 2, 2013. The four- and five-night cruises have a variety of itineraries. Ports of call may include Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; Key West; Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

The itineraries offer families magical days at sea to explore all of the fun aboard the Disney Wonder and days in port to lounge on warm, golden beaches, to swim and snorkel in azure waters or to shop to their heart's content in exotic marketplaces.

Rates for four- and five-night cruises departing from Miami start at $440 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Five-night Caribbean

Ports: Miami, Cozumel, Castaway Cay

Departure dates: Jan. 5, 19, Feb, 2, 16, March 2, 16, 30, April 13, 27

Five-night Caribbean

Ports: Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel

Departure dates: Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, 25, March 11, 25, April 8, 22

Four-night Bahamas

Ports: Miami, Key West, Nassau, Castaway Cay

Departure dates: Jan. 10, 24, Feb. 7, 21, March 7, 21, April 4, 18, May 2

Western Caribbean from Galveston

The Disney Magic, which will begin sailing from Texas in 2012, will continue to sail from the Port of Galveston through May 2013, to the Western Caribbean.

Rates start at $750 per person for six-night cruises and $920 per person for eight-night cruises departing from Galveston for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Six-night Caribbean:

Ports: Galveston, Grand Cayman, Cozumel

Departure dates: Dec. 15 and 29, 2012, Jan. 12, 26, Feb. 9, 23, March 9, 23, April 6, 20. May 4

Eight-night Caribbean:

Ports: Galveston, Key West, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel

Departure dates: Dec. 21, 2012, Jan. 4, 18, Feb. 1, 15, March 1, 15, 29, April 12, 26, May 10

Alaska from Vancouver

Beginning May 27, 2013, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night cruises from Vancouver to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska.

These cruises will combine the natural wonder and adventurous spirit of Alaska with the unparalleled, family-friendly experience found on a Disney Cruise Line ship. Disney Cruise Line worked closely with Alaskan tour operators to create exclusive-to-Disney family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience Alaska's natural beauty and rich history.

Rates for seven-night Alaska cruises departing from Vancouver start at $1,015 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Seven-night Alaska:

Ports: Vancouver, Tracy Arm (scenic cruising through fjord), Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan

Departure dates: May 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2

Caribbean and Bahamas from Port Canaveral

The Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will continue to sail a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral.

The Disney Fantasy will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries - alternating eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). Special Eastern Caribbean sailings, January through April 2013, stop at San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy itineraries include a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

Rates for seven-night Caribbean cruises on the Disney Fantasy start at $1,085 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

The Disney Dream will sail three-, four- and five-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

Rates for three- and four-night Bahamian cruises on the Disney Dream start at $450 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

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1-20-12
Carnival Corporation & plc Announces Comprehensive Audit and Review of Safety and Emergency Response Across All Its Cruise Lines

Following the tragic Costa Concordia accident, Carnival Corporation & plc, parent company of Costa Cruises and nine leading cruise lines around the world, today announced a comprehensive audit and review of all safety and emergency response procedures across all of the company's cruise lines.

Carnival Corporation & plc and the cruise industry as a whole have maintained an excellent safety record over the years. "However, this tragedy has called into question our company's safety and emergency response procedures and practices," said Micky Arison, chairman and CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc. "While I have every confidence in the safety of our vessels and the professionalism of our crews, this review will evaluate all practices and procedures to make sure that this kind of accident doesn't happen again."

The review is being led by Captain James Hunn, a retired U.S. Navy Captain and currently the company's senior vice president of Maritime Policy & Compliance. Following a 32-year career in the Navy, Hunn has held senior positions at Carnival Corporation & plc for nearly a decade, focusing on corporate-wide efforts to establish maritime policy standards, while overseeing the company's health, environmental, safety, and security practices.

Hunn and senior health and safety executives from each of the lines will review all safety and emergency response policies and procedures, officer and crew training and evaluation, bridge management and company-wide response and support efforts. Hunn will report to the Health, Environment, Safety & Security Committee of the Board, and to Howard Frank, vice chairman and chief operations officer of Carnival Corporation & plc.

In addition, the Health, Environment, Safety & Security Committee is engaging outside industry-leading experts in the fields of emergency response organization, training and implementation to conduct an audit of all of the company's emergency response and safety procedures and to conduct a thorough review of the Costa Concordia accident.

Frank said, "This company-wide initiative will identify lessons learned and best practices to further ensure the security and safety of all of our passengers and crew."

Carnival Corporation & plc also supports the call for a comprehensive evaluation of safety regulations by the International Maritime Organization, which was requested earlier today by the Cruise Lines International Association.

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1-20-12
AmaWaterways Unveils New African Cruise and Safari Tour

Luxury Safari Cruises, Featured on Hit-TV Show with Jack Hanna, are Scheduled to set Sail in 2012

Showcasing herds of zebras, grazing elephants and rivers teeming with exotic animals, AmaWaterways' adventurous African safari river cruises will debut in the summer of 2012. Recently featured on the hit TV show, "Jack Hanna's Into The Wild," AmaWaterways explores Africa's most renowned locations, including South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania up close and personal. Guests will have an opportunity to embark on the Zambezi Queen, a 28-passeneger ship designed specifically for safari river cruising to maximize sight seeing.

"Africa is a popular destination spot that provides so many natural activities," said AmaWaterways' Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst. "AmaWaterways is always looking for ways to wow our guests and the safari itineraries do not disappoint. Africa's diverse wildlife, sweeping plains and towering peaks make it the perfect place for an exciting vacation."

AmaWaterways' African cruises include the 16-day Stars of Africa, the 16-day African Sunsets and the 19-day Golden Trails of Africa. The tours bring the picturesque cities to life with morning and afternoon game drives, beach picnics and local wine tours. Guests will visit local museums such as the Huguenot Museum or Ngorongoro Archaeological Museum and also experience the sights and sounds of tribal dancing and visits to local villages. Experimental excursions such as tiger fishing, tours of Victoria Falls and evening sky presentations are destined to become favorites for guests.

"I highly recommend the Zambezi Queen. It's a must. Anyone that's looking to cross something off a bucket list or a way to travel in Africa, this is the way to go," said Jack Hanna, travel host. "From dining to the resting area to the accommodations and the wonderful staff and riverboat guides that get you up close to the wildlife, everything is top-notch and beyond five star. I've done this for 26 years now and this has been the epitome for me and my family to be on this magnificent vessel."

For more information about AmaWaterways, please contact your travel agent or visit www.amawaterways.com, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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