Quantum Of The Seas inaugural season itineraries

being introduced on Royal Caribbean International’s new Quantum class of ships, vacationers will be hard pressed to find another experience that delivers the

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The American Queen Steamboat Company launches partnership with National Trust

The American Queen Steamboat Company, owner and operator of the U.S.-flagged American Queen and the newly announced American Empress, announce a partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation that will help preserve American heritage, culture and promote National Treasures. As a key feature to the partnership, the American Queen Steamboat Company will make a corporate donation of five dollars to the National Trust for every river cruise booking as well as give guests the opportunity to match the donation.

Beginning June 30, 2013, American Queen travelers will have the opportunity to learn more about the National Trust’s National Treasure sites, located along the Mississippi River as well as the Pacific Northwest, where the American Empress will launch in April 2014. Special attention to preservation concepts and techniques, as well as the work of architects, historians and other professionals in the field of historic preservation will be highlighted onboard and onshore.

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American Empress joins American Queen Steamboat fleet

The American Queen Steamboat Company, owner and operator of the U.S-flagged American Queen, announces the purchase of the Empress of the North from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) for an undisclosed amount. To be renamed the American Empress, the vessel is scheduled to resume sailings on the great rivers of the Pacific Northwest April 2014 calling her homeport Portland, Ore. The American Empress will deliver riverboat opulence on a grand scale, following in the pedigree of the line’s namesake American Queen, and proudly serve as the largest overnight riverboat west of the Mississippi River.

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Carnival Sunshine returns from inaugural voyage following $155m makover

arrived today in Barcelona, Spain, following its inaugural 12-day cruise from Venice, Italy.

The unprecedented transformation added all of the line’s Fun Ship 2.0 dining, bar and entertainment features, along with a host of unique and exciting innovations and an additional 182 staterooms.

Today’s voyage from Barcelona represents Carnival Sunshine’s first-ever departure from the Spanish port and continues the ship’s summer schedule of nine- and 12-day Mediterranean voyages that will run through October.

Here’s a look at some of the many innovations added to the 3,006-passenger vessel during its comprehensive makeover:

Delicious Dining Choices

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Norwegian Cruise Line announces Partners First Engage & Reward success

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the results of its Partners First Engage and Reward programme introduced during the UK inaugural of its latest ship, Norwegian Breakaway. The programme encouraged travel partners to attend various information points and presentations throughout the day in order to earn up to 4% bonus commission for their agency.

Norwegian has revealed that out of the approximately 2,500 travel agent partners on board Norwegian Breakaway, around 75% achieved between 1% and 4% bonus commission. 50% of the attendees achieved the maximum amount of 4% bonus commission.

Nick Wilkinson, Director Business Development, Norwegian Cruise Line said:

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SeaDream announces limited availability on 2013 Asia sailings visiting Myanmar

Myanmar (Burma), Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand conjure up exotic images, and now exploring these destinations on a casually elegant mega-yacht is possible before the end of the year. SeaDream Yacht Club’s award-winning SeaDream II will be visiting secluded ports and small harbors on two 13-day itineraries,

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8 blissful bites of Brazil with Crystal Cruises

With 11 Brazilian ports on its fall cruise calendar, luxe Crystal Cruises has set dozens of cool ways to explore the country’s hot culture, culinary arts, and landscape.

Sugar Loaf, samba, and snorkeling may be most famous, but guests can take in such varied Crystal Adventures as:

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Viking launches new Ocean Cruise Line

Viking Cruises today announced the launch of its ocean product line, Viking Ocean Cruises (www.vikingcruises.com/oceans), marking the introduction of the travel industry’s first new cruise line in nearly a decade. Developed from the ground up to return the focus of cruising to the destination, Viking Ocean Cruises will begin sailing in May 2015 with its first vessel

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Crystal goes non-smoking

Effective with the first cruises in 2014, Crystal Cruises will eliminate smoking in all indoor areas, except for its Connoisseur Club smoking lounge. Outside smoking will be allowed in a limited number of designated spaces.

The revised policy begins with the January 5th v4301 and January 8th v4201 voyages of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, respectively, and eliminates smoking in all staterooms and suites, the Crystal Cove lobby lounge and Pulse and Luxe nightclubs.

In keeping with lifestyle trends, most areas of Crystal ships have been non-smoking for several years, including restaurants and main entertainment lounges, as well as stateroom and suite verandahs. Crystal eliminated smoking in its popular Avenue Saloon and Casino in 2013.

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American Cruise Lines introduces the Fall Cruise Collection

American Cruise Lines (www.americancruiselines.com), operator of the newest riverboats and small cruise ships in the United States, announced today its Fall Cruise Collection, a selection of cruises handpicked to showcase the beautiful 2013 fall season. Cruise itineraries include the Columbia & Snake Rivers, the Upper Mississippi River, Hudson River, and American Cruise Lines’ newly launched itinerary, Puget Sound & San Juan Islands.

Columbia & Snake Rivers: In October of 1805, Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery paddled down the Columbia River on the famous expedition into the West. Today, the autumn colors and migratory wildlife that Meriwether Lewis described in his famous journal are much the same aboard Queen of the West, as it follows their exact route. Autumn is the perfect time to relive the historic expedition and experience the Northwest’s rich tapestry of landscapes and fascinating human endeavors. Featured Dates:  October 12, 26

Upper Mississippi River: Autumn time cruising on the Mississippi River is a spectacular time to experience the American Heartland. The upper portion of the river features stunning scenery and quaint historic rivertowns. Guests will take a relaxing journey aboard the elegant Queen of the Mississippi, their minds wandering back in time on this authentic riverboat, as they glide by the colorful display of changing foliage and take in the breathtaking views around every bend of the river. Featured Dates: October 19, 26

Hudson River Fall Foliage: Surrounded by the Catskill Mountains on the western shore and the Taconic and Berkshire Hills to the east, the Hudson is rich in both history and beauty. This popular cruise showcases the bright changing colors and towering mountains for which the Hudson River Valley is so well known.  The cities and towns along the way feature some of the most magnificent architecture in America. Featured Dates: October 19, 25

Puget Sound & San Juan Islands: Guests will leave relaxed and rejuvenated after eight days enjoying the delicious crisp autumn air of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. In autumn, clear skies and sparkling water offer a powerful contrast with the colorful coast where nestled between Canada’s Vancouver Island and the U.S. mainland are hundreds of islands that are home to a diverse natural wonderland filled with wildlife. Featured Dates: October 12, 19

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Natasha Bedingfield announced as featured singer for Royal Princess naming ceremony

Adding yet another special touch to the naming ceremony launching Royal Princess, British singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield will perform at the June 13 naming ceremony of the new ship in Southampton, Princess Cruises has announced.

The globally acclaimed artist will make a special appearance at the celebration, where Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will officially name the ship.

Ever since her Brit Award and Grammy-nominated multi-platinum solo debut album “Unwritten” in 2004, the British-born Bedingfield has been one of the world’s most inspiring and innovative contemporary female singer-songwriters at the top of the charts. With three albums under her belt, she is known for her powerfully soulful voice and heartfelt and contagious pop anthems.

Bedingfield’s radio hits include songs such as “Unwritten,” “Pocket Full of Sunshine,” “Love Like This” and “These Words,” and her music can also be heard in numerous movies and television shows.

“We’re excited to have Natasha Bedingfield lend her voice to this special occasion,” said Jan Swartz , Princess Cruises executive vice president. “Her music will add a wonderful contemporary touch to the time-honored elements of the traditional naming ceremony.”

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In addition to Bedingfield’s performance, the Royal Princess inaugural ceremony will feature many British ship-naming traditions, including a blessing of the vessel, and a performance by The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth ( Royal Band ) and the pipers of the Irish Guards. The pinnacle of the ceremony will be when the ship’s godmother, The Duchess of Cambridge, breaks the champagne bottle on the bow of the ship.

The ceremony will be the highlight of week-long inaugural celebrations to welcome the vessel into service. Royal Princess will arrive at the Ocean Terminal in Southampton on Friday, June 7 and will depart on her maiden voyage on June 16. After her maiden voyage to Barcelona, the ship will sail Grand Mediterranean cruises throughout the summer, followed by Eastern Caribbean cruises beginning in the autumn. Passengers still have the opportunity to book a cruise during the ship’s maiden season as limited space remains available.

The 3,600-passenger Royal Princess is a new-generation ship. Among the special features found on board will be a greatly expanded atrium, the social hub of the ship; an over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; plush private poolside cabanas that appear to be floating on water; the new Princess Live! television studio; the largest pastry shop at sea; a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms.

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Keel laying ceremony for P&O Cruises new cruise ship held in Italy

A ceremony on Wednesday 15 May was held to mark the keel laying of the largest cruise ship ever built for the British market will take place at the Monfalcone shipyard of Fincantieri near Trieste, Italy. The 141,000-ton cruise ship will enter service in 2015.

This next-generation ship will offer a stylish and innovative new design, with an unprecedented number of passenger facilities together with many iconic signatures of the P&O Cruises brand. She will offer the “best of the best”, combining favourite classic features of ships such as Oriana and Aurora, the wide choice and variety of Ventura and Azura and a host of new concepts which will include some yet-to-be-announced “sophisticated wows”. In delivering the ultimate P&O Cruises experience, the ship will be designed to attract many thousands of newcomers and will equally resonate with existing passengers by delivering the sense of P&O-ness for which the brand is held in such high regard. At the same time, the ship will be designed to deliver much greater levels of operational and environmental efficiency.

The keel laying will involve the placement in the dry dock of the first section of the ship’s hull. This section is made up of 6 pre-manufactured blocks, weighs 408 tons and is fitted with 214 tons of pipes, cables, insulation and other equipment.

The ceremony follows an intensive period of design and development. 74 sections will be used in the construction of the ship.

In a speech, Carnival UK CEO David Dingle said: “Each of our new ships has been exclusively designed for the British market. We have ensured that each anticipates the subtly changing trends in what British passengers expect from their cruise holiday - and is equipped to meet those expectations for many years to come. Our success in adapting to the market’s changing needs is why our ships continue to fill and why the whole cruise sector ultimately continues to buck any downward trend. We cannot wait to see this ship finished and underway.”

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Fincantieri Shipyard Director Carlo De Marco said: “We are proud to be on the world stage together with P&O Cruises in this endeavour, which will undoubtedly be a marvellous opportunity not only for Monfalcone shipyard but for Fincantieri as a whole. Indeed, this is another occasion to further strengthen our relationship with this well-established ship owner. It will be an honour and a pleasure, to celebrate in 2015 the delivery of this ship and together the tenth anniversary of the collaboration between P&O Cruises and Fincantieri, started in 2005 with Arcadia.”

P&O Cruises Managing Director, Carol Marlow , will give the order to lay the keel with the words: “Diamo il via alla posa del primo blocco della più grande nave, la migliore, mai costruita per il mercato Britannico!”

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Windstar Cruises introduces new yacht and voyage collection

Windstar Cruises, a leader in yacht-style cruising, announces the debut of its new all-suite yacht, Star Pride, and the 2014 Pride Voyage Collection. The new voyages open for sale today, and feature four new itineraries exclusive to the all-suite yacht, including Windstar’s new itinerary through the Black Sea. Star Pride’s nine distinctive voyages highlight small-ship ports throughout the Mediterranean seas and French Riviera, tucking into tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach. The collection features voyages from May 5 to October 21, 2014.

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American Queen Steamboat Company completes technology upgrade

Guests keeping up on the latest headlines via tablet or documenting their American Queen voyage to friends on Facebook are now assured of a stronger and more stable internet experience onboard the world’s largest riverboat. The American Queen Steamboat Company recently installed a new satellite ball instantly improving internet speeds throughout the vessel. Additionally, in-room entertainment options have been added with new television channels and a 24-hour movie channel.

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Costa Crociere appoints new SVP Communication and Sustainability

Effective from 13 May 2013, Mina Piccinini joins Costa Crociere S.p.A. in the position of Senior Vice President Communication and Sustainability. Reporting directly to the CEO Michael Thamm, she will be in charge of Corporate Communication, Press Office, Sustainability, Public Relations and Events.

Mina Piccinini has gained extensive experience in the areas of communication and sustainability, initially in the non-profit sector and subsequently in a series of international posts working for the Fiat Group.

She joined Ferrari in 2004 as Head of the Corporate Press Office in Maranello and was later promoted to Communication Director for Ferrari West Europe based in Paris.

She was appointed Head of the Fiat Group’s Sustainability Unit in 2008 and under her guidance Fiat was admitted to the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability World and Europe Indexes, which are both global sustainability benchmarks.

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Read More » Tags:costa cruises Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesPiccinini takes up communications role with Costa4 days ago Costa Cruises announces new appointments25th Apr 2013 Costa Cruises presents 2014 and winter 2014/15 itineraries3rd Apr 2013 Costa Cruises prepares for major milestone29th Mar 2013 Costa Concordia victims have jurisdiction victory in Florida3rd Mar 2013 Industry reastion to Costa Concordia anniversary13th Jan 2013 Costa Concordia tops 2012 increase in ship losses11th Jan 2013 New flagship for Costa Cruises under construction in Italy12th Dec 2012 Follow Breaking Travel News

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Cruise Critic announces partnership with Silversea Cruises

(http://www.cruisecritic.com), the leading cruise review site, and the world’s largest community of cruisers, has expanded its list of Meet & Mingle program partners to include Silversea Cruises. Cruise Critic’s popular Meet & Mingle parties provide members with the opportunity to meet fellow cruisers they have connected with on the site’s cruise forums.

Meet & Mingle parties are now available on all Silversea sailings, and include a member-exclusive cocktail party, with hors d’oeuvres and a private bar, at no additional cost to attendees. Silversea Meet & Mingle parties are offered to any group of six or more guests who have registered for the event through the Cruise Critic Web site.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Silversea to offer Meet & Mingle parties to our members onboard,” says Kathleen Tucker , Cruise Critic’s President and Founder. “Our members will often chat online for more than a year before they set sail, so an organized meet up is a fantastic way to start their cruise.”
Adds Ellen Bettridge , Silversea’s President of the Americas, “Meet & Mingle parties are a great opportunity for Cruise Critic members to connect with each other at sea. We’re delighted to participate in this program and enhance the cruise experience for our guests who are members of the Cruise Critic community.”

This is the fifth cruise line to offer an official Meet & Mingle program to Cruise Critic members. Cruise Critic has similar agreements in place with Azamara, Celebrity, Crystal and Royal Caribbean cruise lines.

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Read More » Tags:silversea cruises Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesSilversea appoints new sales manager for Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East8th Apr 2013 Royal Geographical Society and Silversea Cruises announce partnership20th Mar 2013 Silversea Cruises announce partnership with Royal Geographical Society17th Mar 2013 Silversea introduces South American land excursion13th Mar 2013 Silversea announces new shorter voyages23rd Jan 2013 Silversea forced to cancel cruise following damage to vessel17th Jan 2013 Silversea introduces sampler cruises12th Jan 2013 Silversea and Cruise Strategies strengthen partnership4th Dec 2012 Follow Breaking Travel News

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Royal Caribbean makes changes to finance team

Brian Rice, Vice Chairman and CFO of Royal Caribbean is planning to transition his CFO responsibilities to Jason Liberty as he prepares for his retirement in the spring of 2014. 

Rice will continue to serve as Vice Chairman until his retirement, overseeing Royal Caribbean’s finance, supply chain, strategy and information technology functions.  Rice has been with Royal Caribbean for more than 20 years, serving as CFO since 2006 and Vice Chairman since 2012.

In a related move, Jason Liberty has been named the new CFO, effective immediately, and will continue to report to Rice. Liberty joined Royal Caribbean in 2005 and most recently served as Senior Vice President, Strategy and Finance, overseeing the company’s Corporate and Strategic Planning, Treasury, Investor Relations and Internal Audit functions. Before joining Royal Caribbean, Liberty was a senior manager at the accounting firm KPMG.

Additionally, Henry Pujol has been named Senior Vice President and Controller, and in his new role will report to Liberty.  Pujol joined Royal Caribbean in 2004 as Assistant Controller and was promoted to Vice President, Corporate Controller in 2008. Before joining Royal Caribbean, Pujol was a senior manager in the audit practice of KPMG.

“Over the past 24 years, I’ve had the very good fortune to work for an outstanding company in a truly exciting industry,” said Rice. “I am proud to have played a part in its success, and I feel comfortable that I will be leaving the company in excellent shape.”

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“Brian has been a key figure in the development of Royal Caribbean, and an important leader who has made significant contributions to the entire cruise industry,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. 

Fain lauded Rice’s role in the creation of the Revenue Management discipline, which is now a standard industry practice. “Brian’s foresight and financial discipline helped us all become better sellers,” said Fain. “At the same time, his focus and determination have ensured we continually improve our financial management and credit strength.”

Fain added that Rice developed a strong talent base at Royal Caribbean, and would use the next year to help the company transition successfully to its next generation of financial leadership. “Brian is a strong leader and a good teacher, and he will continue to develop his team through the next year,” Fain said.

“I look forward to working with Jason and Henry as they continue their professional growth and development,” said Rice. “Jason is clearly ready to step into the role of Chief Financial Officer, while Henry continues to demonstrate his breadth and capability in his new responsibilities.”

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Read More » Tags:royal caribbean Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesEnchantment of the Seas begins year round service from Florida30th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean contributes to South Florida community29th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014-15 short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises28th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean launches new Quantum cruising19th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean reveals groundbreaking Quantum class ships18th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean unveils details of next generation ships17th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014 northern Europe cruises12th Apr 2013 Unprecedented demand for Oasis of the Seas first European season12th Apr 2013 Follow Breaking Travel News

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Piccinini takes up communications role with Costa

Mina Piccinini has joined Costa Crociere in the position of senior vice president communication and sustainability.

Reporting directly to the chief executive Michael Thamm, she will be in charge of corporate communication, press office, sustainability, public relations and events.

Piccinini has gained extensive experience in the areas of communication and sustainability, initially in the non-profit sector and subsequently in a series of international posts working for the Fiat Group.

She joined Ferrari in 2004 as head of the corporate press office in Maranello and was later promoted to communication director for Ferrari West Europe based in Paris.

She was appointed head of the Fiat Group’s Sustainability Unit in 2008 and under her guidance Fiat was admitted to the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability World and Europe Indexes, which are both global sustainability benchmarks.

Tags:costa cruises Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesCosta Cruises announces new appointments25th Apr 2013 Costa Cruises presents 2014 and winter 2014/15 itineraries3rd Apr 2013 Costa Cruises prepares for major milestone29th Mar 2013 Costa Concordia victims have jurisdiction victory in Florida3rd Mar 2013 Industry reastion to Costa Concordia anniversary13th Jan 2013 Costa Concordia tops 2012 increase in ship losses11th Jan 2013 New flagship for Costa Cruises under construction in Italy12th Dec 2012 Costa Cruises reveals its 7th sustainability report1st Dec 2012 Follow Breaking Travel News

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Cruise Shipping Miami prepares for 30th anniversary

When the next Cruise Shipping Miami convenes March 10th, 2014, it will mark the 30th anniversary of the industry’s signature annual event.

Owner and organiser UBM Live is planning a tribute to the cruise business’ past, present and future to mark the three-decade milestone.

Building on the success of its 2013 introduction, next year’s show will feature an expanded Sustainable Cruising program, where destinations and technical communities share innovative solutions for environmental issues with the cruise industry.

The Amusement and Entertainment Technology Pavilion also will return and a newly developed food and beverage program will be implemented.

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P&O Cruises showcases Ventura refurbishment

A multi-million pound refurbishment has been carried out to Ventura to incorporate features which have proved popular with passengers on sister ship Azura.

Successful concepts from Azura, such as The Glasshouse, The Retreat, menus designed by Michelin -star chef Atul Kochhar in speciality restaurant East and single cabins have all been introduced on board Ventura as part of P&O Cruises ongoing refit programme.

P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said:

“This is the latest of several refits to our fleet. Oriana and Oceana have already had multi-million pound investments and Arcadia will be at the end of the year. We are delighted with the changes on Ventura. All of the enhancements have been made following feedback from both existing passengers and potential cruisers. Research showed that speciality restaurants were very important as well as a variety of dining with premium grills, classic fine dining, Asian and Indian menus being the most popular.

“As a result we have added these innovations onto Ventura. We have a new Asian Fusion menu in East, designed by Atul Kochhar and we added The Glasshouse grill and wine bar, both of which have proved so popular on Azura.

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“Following the success of the single cabins on Azura and Oriana, we also now have 18 new single cabins on Ventura. This offers an attractive and cost effective option to solo travellers.

“The Retreat has also been a huge hit with passengers on Azura and so we now have the same concept on Ventura. The Retreat offers a private area, exclusively for adults and is the perfect place to relax, unwind and be pampered.

“All in all, these changes are very well suited to passengers seeking a relaxed and contemporary cruising experience - perfect for families, friends and couples alike. We are very excited to have these latest innovations in time for Ventura’s new fly-cruise programme to the Mediterranean next summer. Our passengers can enjoy some of Europe’s most iconic destinations in greater style and even more comfort on our new-look Ventura.”

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Norwegian Cruise Line christens newest ship, Breakaway

New York legends the Rockettes christen the Norwegian Breakaway

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Breakaway, was christened by the legendary Rockettes during a ceremony officiated by mayor Michael Bloomberg and cardinal Timothy Dolan.

Buddy Valastro, star of the US series Cake Boss, hosted the highly anticipated ceremony.

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Grantland Goes to the Iditarod

This past March, Grantland sent writer Brian Phillips to follow the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, Alaska’s famous 1000-mile feat of endurance, by bush plane. The resulting story, Out in the Great Alone, comes with all sorts of online design bells and whistles—embedded audio and video, and a map that updates itself as you scroll through the narrative. But what I liked best about it was its emphasis on place, not so much on the ins and outs of the race itself but on the landscapes and communities it passes through. Here’s Phillips:

I took a walk through the village. Couple of roads twisting down a couple of hills, some pretty rough-looking houses. Moose antlers over the doorways. Things happen to the color blue during an Alaska twilight that I’ve never seen anywhere else. Imagine that the regular, daytime blue sky spends all its time floating on the night sky, the way you’d float on the surface of a pool. Now it’s submerging itself. You could see it vanishing upward. The cars looked derelict, half-buried in snow. Snowdrifts rammed up doorknob-high against the houses. Every now and again a snow machine would go screaming by; the drivers always waved. Snow 3 and 4 feet high on the roofs.

But it was such a warm place. I mean, fine, we’re all cynics here, go ahead and click over to your next open tab or whatever, but you could feel it: this fragile human warmth surrounded by almost unmanageable sadness. Outside the checkpoint building the Takotnans had set up a row of burled tree stumps beside the flagpoles, and now two guys with chain saws were carving long crosscuts in the stumps. Each night during the Iditarod they’d pour diesel into one stump’s cuts and then light it, making a torch as wide as two people embracing that’d burn for hours and hours. Mushers coming down the river toward the checkpoint would see the torches from—I don’t know about miles, but a long way away. Eight or nine villagers, along with a few volunteers, gathered around the fire. Jay was there, talking about airplanes with Bernard—you could tell from the way he’d sort of bank his hand at the wrist and slide it through the air. Christophe went around taking pictures. A little gang of kids played king of the hill on a snowdrift. The night just dwarfed all this.

It’s a long one, but worth your time. The New Yorker also sent a writer to follow the Iditarod this year; subscribers can read Ben McGrath’s story here.

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Royal Caribbean announces 2014-15 short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises

Royal Caribbean International today announced a number of short three- to five-night Caribbean and Bahamas cruises throughout 2014-15, sailing from Tampa, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades and Miami, Florida. Nearly all of these Royal Caribbean ships have recently undergone extensive refurbishments, offering guests up to 10 onboard dining options, spectacular entertainment and onboard features that offer greater convenience and connectivity.

On all ships except Majesty of the Seas, guests can also enjoy an oversized outdoor movie screen beside the main pool, new staterooms featuring flat-panel televisions, bow-to-stern Wi-Fi service, interactive digital signage and much more. For a short webisode about all the innovative enhancements that guests are already enjoying, please see http://tinyurl.com/c3au67b. Royal Caribbean’s 2014-15 short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises are now open for booking.

From Port Canaveral and Miami respectively, Enchantment of the Seas and Majesty of the Seas will continue year-round three- and four-night Bahamas cruises, calling at Nassau and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island paradise in The Bahamas. On Majesty of the Seas’ four-night sailing, guests also call at Key West, Florida. At CocoCay, guests enjoy a private island with watersports options, plenty of beautiful beaches to soak up the sun, sip refreshing cocktails and enjoy a barbeque lunch by the sea.

Throughout the summer 2014 season, holidaymakers can also choose a Caribbean getaway from Port Everglades aboard Vision of the Seas. A four-night itinerary takes guests to Cozumel, Mexico, whilst two five-night itineraries take guests to Cozumel and Roatan, Honduras, on one, or Key West, Florida, and Grand Cayman. Guests will also have access to the spectacular high-flying, acrobatic musical production overhead in the four-deck high Centrum, while others can enjoy a cocktail at the new retro-chic R-Bar below.

Also from Port Everglades, Liberty of the Seas will sail four- and five-night Western Caribbean cruises for the winter 2014-15 season, offering the broadest range of innovative and popular features and entertainment that were first introduced onboard the world-acclaimed Oasis-class and Freedom-class. Guests enjoy the FlowRider surf simulator, the four-bedroom, four-bathroom Presidential Family Suite

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Norwegian Breakaway arrives in Southampton

Norwegian Breakaway has become one of the biggest ships to make its debut in Southampton after arriving at the UK port ahead of a trade preview.

The Norwegian Cruise Line ship made a pre-inaugural overnight sailing from Rotterdam to arrive in the UK port.

Agents from across the UK trade will be invited onboard today as the 4,028-passenger ship is showcased.

The Norwegian delegation will be led by chief executive Kevin Sheehan.

Agents are also being given the opportunity to meet representatives from key cruise destinations, including Alaska, Seattle, Miami, Clearwater Beach, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma.

UK & Ireland business development director Nick Wilkinson said:

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Royal Caribbean contributes to South Florida community

More than 1,000 volunteers associated with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. signed up to spend this past Saturday, April 20, improving their South Florida community as part of the company’s 16th annual G.I.V.E. Day .

G.I.V.E., which stands for “Get Involved Volunteer Everywhere,” is a community service event that brings together Royal Caribbean employees, their families, friends, vendors and business partners to assist non-profit organizations and improve the quality of life in their local communities. The volunteers painted and landscaped the grounds at Kids In Distress, the home away from home for many children in the South Florida foster care system, located in the Wilton Manors neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

After a hard day’s work, volunteers transformed the Kids In Distress grounds with more than 2,000 gallons of environmentally-friendly paint for 13 buildings and surrounding areas; 8,500 plants, including fruit trees and vegetables native to Florida; 100 bird feeders made by young volunteers; and by reconnecting the irrigation system, which will help Kids In Distress save on their monthly water expenses. In addition, their donation center was inventoried and organized to help them better serve their 5,000 kids in foster care homes throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties. 

“As one of the largest employers in South Florida, we are committed to supporting and helping our local communities,” said Richard D. Fain , chairman and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.  “We hope that the personal satisfaction and enjoyment of assisting our neighbors on G.I.V.E. Day will help inspire our employees to pursue volunteer and public service opportunities throughout the year.”

Kids In Distress is recognized as a premier agency in South Florida, they provide family strengthening services as well as children’s services for more than 10,000 children and their families. Their mission is to prevent child abuse, preserve the family, and treat children who have been abused and neglected.  Started in a small house in 1979 as an emergency shelter for the youngest victims of abuse and neglect, they have since expanded services and grown to a five-acre campus in Broward County with a satellite office in Palm Beach County.  They are also the largest provider of foster homes in both Broward and Palm Beach counties, many of which become adoptive homes for children who cannot be reunified with their biological families. They operate one of the only remaining emergency shelters for children ages birth to 15 years of age, and a family counseling center for counseling and therapy needs.

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Now in its 16th year, G.I.V.E. Day is an example of how the more than 40,000 Royal Caribbean employees give back to their communities around the world, by donating thousands of volunteer hours to assist their communities with neighborhood development, civic drives, environmental improvement and disaster recovery.  Similar G.I.V.E. Day events are also being planned for and will take place in Wichita, Kansas; Anchorage, Alaska; Springfield, Oregon, United Kingdom, Germany and other International Offices.

Tags:royal caribbean Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesEnchantment of the Seas begins year round service from Floridayesterday Royal Caribbean announces 2014-15 short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises3 days ago Royal Caribbean launches new Quantum cruising19th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean reveals groundbreaking Quantum class ships18th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean unveils details of next generation ships17th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014 northern Europe cruises12th Apr 2013 Unprecedented demand for Oasis of the Seas first European season12th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014 Alaska cruises and cruisetours26th Mar 2013 Follow Breaking Travel News

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Enchantment of the Seas begins year round service from Florida

Royal Caribbean International has now introduced Enchantment of the Seas to the new homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida, replacing Monarch of the Seas and continuing the cruise line’s year-round, three- and four-night Bahamas itineraries. Enchantment of the Seas joins sister ship Freedom of the Seas at Port Canaveral, and marks the first time in four years that Royal Caribbean International has introduced a new ship to the port.

Enchantment of the Seas is fresh from an extensive refurbishment that includes new dining options, such as the complimentary Park Café where guests can grab gourmet sandwiches, salads and more; a Royal Babies and Tots Nursery in the cruise line’s award-winning Adventure Ocean kids’ programme, which offers exclusive children’s activities developed in partnership with Fisher-Price and Crayola; and the R Bar, a retro-inspired bar in the ship’s Centrum that serves cocktails from expert mixologists. Guests also enjoy bow-to-stern Wi-Fi service, flat-panel televisions in every stateroom, and interactive digital signage.

By day, guests can lounge by the pool and enjoy a new oversized outdoor movie screen; join in an invigorating session in the Vitality Fitness Center; take in a rejuvenating treatment in the Vitality Day Spa; and achieve new heights on Enchantment of the Seas’ rock-climbing wall and bungee trampoline. At night, guests can celebrate a special occasion in Royal Caribbean International’s signature Chops Grille steakhouse; enjoy the cruise line’s award-winning Broadway-style musical revue in the Orpheum Theater; dance into the night in one of four lounges; and enjoy excitement in the Casino Royale. Suite and Crown & Anchor Society member guests can relax and enjoy the new exclusive Concierge and Diamond Lounges.

Enchantment of the Seas will sail every Monday and Friday on short Bahamas itineraries, calling at Nassau and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean International’s private island paradise. Guests will enjoy the exclusive island’s beautiful beaches, colourful craft market, and variety of thrilling watersports options.

Tags:royal caribbean Share this articleModerate Comments CommentsRelated ArticlesRoyal Caribbean contributes to South Florida community2 days ago Royal Caribbean announces 2014-15 short Caribbean and Bahamas cruises3 days ago Royal Caribbean launches new Quantum cruising19th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean reveals groundbreaking Quantum class ships18th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean unveils details of next generation ships17th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014 northern Europe cruises12th Apr 2013 Unprecedented demand for Oasis of the Seas first European season12th Apr 2013 Royal Caribbean announces 2014 Alaska cruises and cruisetours26th Mar 2013 Follow Breaking Travel News

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FIVE TIPS FOR PLANNING A CRUISE WITH TOUGH-TO-PLEASE TEENS

Choosing the right cruise can provide teens with the independence and activities they want, along with fun the whole family can share.

Monday, April 29, 2013

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Traveling with teenagers can be challenging, as any parent who has ever tried to sightsee with a scowling, foot-dragging, eye-rolling, fledgling-adult can attest. “You’re looking at Ephesus and they’re whining and asking ‘why are we here?’ says Candyce Stapen, a family travel expert and USA Today travel editor. “And if your teenager is unhappy, you will be too.”

Cruising can be an ideal solution for teens, says Stapen. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when planning a cruise getaway with teens that the whole family can enjoy.

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