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Thursday, August 30, 2012

New evidence proves Princess Cruises did not fail to rescue adrift fishermen as alleged

(News Release)

Cruise Line Demands Lawsuits be Immediately Dismissed

Santa Clarita, Calif. (August 30, 2012) – Princess Cruises has released recently discovered video footage of a rescue at sea of a small boat adrift for nearly a month in the Pacific Ocean that conclusively confirms the adrift boat, the Fifty Cent, was not the small boat spotted and photographed by three Princess passengers several weeks earlier.

The story, which broke last April, received extensive press coverage with Princess and the ship’s captain widely criticized for not coming to the rescue of the men onboard, two of whom subsequently died.

Cunard partners with Julien's Auctions on Greta Garbo Auction and Insights program


20 November 2012 Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing to Feature Rarely Before Seen Garbo Items plus Lectures from Derek Reisfield, Garbo’s Great-Nephew
Julien's Auctions catalogue of items from the Estate of Greta Garbo.
 
22 August 2012 – In conjunction with Julien’s Auctions of Beverly Hills, Cunard Line will offer guests the opportunity to view and purchase rarely before seen items of famed actress Greta Garbo during Queen Mary 2’s 20 November 2012 Transatlantic Crossing.

Additionally, during the voyage, Garbo’s great nephew, Derek Reisfield, will headline Cunard's on board enrichment program, Cunard Insights, where he will provide a personal account of her life and iconic Hollywood career.

Princess Cruises “Inspired to Cruise” blog showcases five more reasons to cruise

New Reasons to Vacation at Sea include Popping the Question, Scattering Ashes and
Running a Marathon

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 29, 2012) – Princess Cruises’ blog, “Inspired to Cruise: A Year of Reasons to Get Away From the Everyday” has chronicled an additional five reasons to cruise, presenting a new selection of heartwarming and inspiring passenger stories about the many things that can motivate travelers to choose a vacation at sea.

The most recent stories are from cruisers who have proposed at sea, taken ashes of a surfing pioneer back to the waves of Hawaii, and run a marathon for charity. The blog, found at http://inspiredtocruise.com, illustrates some of the myriad reasons people take cruise vacations.

New Hawai’i cruise bookings on Pride of America to receive $100 to spend on board

NORWEGIAN HAWAI`I BONUS DAYS SALE

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching the Hawai’i Bonus Days sales event for three days beginning today, Thursday, August 30, 2012.

During this limited time, new reservations on the only US-flagged large cruise ship, Pride of America, will receive $100 in on-board credit per stateroom.

Through September 1, 2012, guests who book a seven-day Hawai`i cruise in any stateroom category can use the on-board credit toward an array of incredible Hawai`i shore excursions; a pampering treatment in the ship’s award-winning Mandara Spa; a delicious dinner in one of Pride of America’s specialty restaurants and much more.

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Norwegian introduces specialty dining package

(News Release)

“Signature Trio” offers discounts on three specialty dining experiences: Norwegian’s signature steakhouse, French bistro and Italian restaurants
MIAMI – July 18, 2012 -- Norwegian Cruise Line is introducing a new Specialty Dining Package, “Signature Trio,” that gives guests the unique opportunity to pre-purchase three specialty restaurants prior to sailing at a special rate.

Guests who take advantage of Norwegian’s Specialty Dining Package can experience three of the line’s most popular specialty restaurants: the steakhouse, French bistro and Italian restaurant at a special package rate of $47 per person. The offer is currently available on all ships fleet wide.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Princess Cruises announces second annual Entertainer of the Year cruise


Passengers Aboard February 9 Crown Princess Cruise Will Vote for Line’s Top Guest Performer

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 22, 2012) – After a successful first-ever Entertainer of the Year cruise this past April in which comedian Carlos Oscar was named the top entertainer across the Princess Cruises fleet, the line has now scheduled its second cruise to determine next year’s winner.

Passengers aboard the February 9-16, 2013 Valentine’s Day cruise on Crown Princess sailing the Western Caribbean will cast their ballots to show their love for their favorite candidate from four finalists.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Cunard’s three queens to sail across six continents and visit 85 destinations including South America, Australia and Japan

 
N E W S 
 
Cunard Line’s 2014 World Voyage Programme on Sale 5 September
Guests Booking Full World Voyage or Liner Voyages before 28 February 2013
to Receive up to $3,000 On Board Credit

 
21 August 2012 With visits to 85 unique ports of call in 40 countries, Cunard Lines 2014 World Voyage Programme is sure to satisfy the most adventurous traveller with opportunities to explore South America, to circumnavigate Australia and to discover the excitement of Japan and Southeast Asia.

On sale 5 September, the programme will feature three World Voyages ranging from eight to 133 days aboard Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, with embarkation points in Southampton, England, New York, Fort Lauderdale and San Francisco, depending on the voyage.

 Together, Cunard’s Queens will cover 116,808 nautical miles, taking in signature, must-see cities as well as less familiar, but equally compelling, destinations.

Silversea details 2013 voyage collection in two new brochures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Expedition cruises now featured in separate brochure

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- August 21, 2012) Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has released two new brochures showcasing over 200 imaginative voyages sailing from January through December 2013 to over 450 destinations on seven continents.

The new 2013 Voyages atlas immediately captures the imagination with an exquisite cover design that hints at the luxurious travel experiences revealed within its 176 pages. Devoted to the remarkable journeys of Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit, this comprehensive guidebook showcases Silversea's exclusive world, where luxury is found in every detail.

Deals galore at sea from Norwegian Cruise Line

DIVE FOR SAVINGS WITH NORWEGIAN’S LIMITED TIME OFFER
Receive up to $250 to spend on board, plus reduced deposits
Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its popular “Freestyle Dash” limited time offer today, August 21, 2012, giving guests the opportunity to receive up to $250 to spend on board (based on cruise length and stateroom category), when they book a new cruise vacation before Friday, August 24, 2012 to any of Norwegian’s exciting destinations.  

Monday, August 20, 2012

Cruises sail on Columbia and Snake rivers and in southeast Alaska

  American Safari Cruises Introduces Heritage Adventure Cruises Aboard 88-Guest Safari Legacy in 2013

Seattle, WA, August 20, 2012 –  Joining the yacht fleet in summer 2013, the 88-guest Safari Legacy adds a new style of adventure to InnerSea Discoveries/American Safari Cruises un-cruise lineup.

Heritage Adventures in Alaska and along the Columbia and Snake Rivers bring history to life with an innovative Living History program on board and ashore.

After significant renovations and upgrades, the replica Victorian steamer will sail two 11-night cruises between Seattle and Juneau, AK departing August 11 and August 22, 2013.

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Confidence returns as cruise lines report brisk bookings ahead of last year


   Out to Sea column for Aug. 18/12


   (c) By Jim and Barb Fox

   The tide has turned for the cruise line industry.
The Caribbean remains the leading cruise destination as the Caribbean Princess “parks” right at the beach in Grand Turk. (Jim Fox photo)
   After a disastrous event that shook the confidence of many considering a cruise, bookings are rising and have even surged, a poll of Canadian and U.S. travel agents shows.
   The January disaster that saw the Costa Concordia smash into a reef off the Italian island of Giglio and partially submerge with the loss of 32 lives, cast a pall over the industry.
   The haunting spectacle threatened to throw cruise vacations off course in a business that prides itself on an exemplary safety record.
   More than 300 agents recently polled cited “optimism” has returned, with more than half saying they are selling more vacations at sea than last year, said Christine Duffy, president and ceo of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
   As well, 64 per cent of the agents expect cruise bookings this year to increase over 2011.
   After the Costa incident, cruise lines began offering deals and incentives to keep sales afloat during the difficult period.
   The survey reported consumers are motivated by good value offered by the lines; love of cruising; prices; getting away with friends; trying out new ships; family reunions; shorter cruises; and honeymoons/weddings/anniversaries.
Vibrant sunsets and exotic vistas can be seen while cruising past the tip of Baja California and through the Mexican Riviera. (Jim Fox photo)

Friday, August 17, 2012

Royal Princess “Float Out” celebrated with nod to the past


 Vessel’s “Madrina” has Special Connection to Newest Princess Cruises Ship
Princess Cruises President & CEO Alan Buckelew, Royal Princess Madrina Victoria Nash, Royal Princess Captain Tony Draper and Captain Nick Nash celebrate the float out of Royal Princess.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 16, 2012) – Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Royal Princess, reached a significant construction milestone today when the vessel was “floated out” at its building dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy.

A traditional ceremony marked the occasion, which was highlighted by a participant with a unique tie to the ship and the unveiling of a special ship’s bell.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Celebrity Reflection presents Circuit Of Sensory experiences In exotic AquaSpa‏



MIAMI – August 16, 2012 – Some like it hot, some like it cold, and they’ll all find enticing experiences in the exotic AquaSpa on Celebrity Cruises’ new Celebrity Reflection.

The epitome of modern luxury, Celebrity Reflection will present an enhanced AquaSpa by Elemis allowing guests to create their own circuit of sensory experiences as they move from room to room and experience hot and cold, wet and dry, and peace and tranquility throughout.

The AquaSpa’s expanded, 883-square-foot Persian Garden will allow for six more in-demand curved, heated tile beds (15 total) with soothing sea views, and six entirely new experiences.

Norwegian Cruise Line enhances Great Stirrup Cay with three new interactive experiences

News Release

Adds Stingray Encounter, Fate of the Fancy Snorkel Adventure and Lighthouse Beach Bar presented by Patron to Private Island
MIAMI – August 16, 2012 - Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that a new Stingray Encounter and Fate of the Fancy Snorkel Adventure are now available on Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s 250-acre private island in the Bahamas.

In addition, coming soon is a brand new Lighthouse Beach Bar presented by Patron. The launch of these three brand new experiences marks more exciting additions to the island as part of the ongoing $30 million enhancement project.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

“Top Chef: The Cruise,” coming in April to the Celebrity Constellation



News Release

The most sought-after “reservations” in town for April 2013 will not be on land, but rather will be at sea, with the launch of the first-ever “Top Chef: The Cruise,” aboard the modern, luxurious Celebrity Constellation.

The announcement was made today by Bravo Media, Celebrity Cruises, Magical Elves and Rose Tours, and offers fans of the Emmy-winning “Top Chef” reality competition series the chance to spend quality time with the show’s judges and chefs, making this a one-of-a-kind culinary vacation experience.

Hosted by two of “Top Chef’s” most beloved stars, Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons, and featuring past “chef’testants,” the April 11-15, 2013 cruise will sail roundtrip from Miami, Florida, with stops in Key West, Florida and Cozumel, Mexico.

Norwegian celebrates continued success of “Undercover Boss” episode with “The Boss is Back” promotion

Norwegian Cruise Line CEO paints a railing during his stint on “Undercover Boss.”

 MIAMI – August 15, 2012 -- In celebration of the continued re-airing of Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Undercover Boss” episode featuring CEO Kevin Sheehan, the company is showing its appreciation to the more than 35-million viewers who have watched the episode’s two airings on the CBS Television Network. 

More recently, the Norwegian episode has aired on The Learning Channel (TLC) and the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and will re-air on TLC this Saturday, August 18 at 8 and 11 pm EST.  The show has also aired in dozens of countries around the world, providing for a global audience.

Princess Cruises “Relaxation Sale” offers six days of cruise deals



Passengers Can Save up to $2,000 Per Stateroom and Receive Onboard Credit of Up to $100

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 15, 2012) – Today Princess Cruises is celebrating National Relaxation Day with a six-day Relaxation Sale, offering special fares on sailings to such serene cruise destinations as the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Hawaii, the South Pacific, Mexico and the California Coast.

These cruise deals offer up to $2,000 in savings per stateroom, plus the opportunity to receive up to $100 onboard credit per stateroom. The sale runs from August 15-20, 2012.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Cunard Line announces Extraordinary Adventures event sale, 16-20 August

 
N E W S 

Five-Day Sale Features Savings of up to 45 Percent off Early Booking Fares on World Voyage Segments
14 August 2012 On 16 August, Cunard Line launches their five-day Extraordinary Adventures Event Sale, featuring exotic World Voyage Segments in Asia, Australia and the Middle East on both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria. The sale also includes Transatlantic Crossings and a Panama Canal transit.

Norwegian Cruise Line launches cruise giveaway contest on Pinterest


  Users Create a “Dream Cruise Vacation on Norwegian” board on Pinterest for a
chance to win a seven-day cruise for two in a balcony stateroom

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching an interactive contest on the third largest and fastest growing social media site, Pinterest, a virtual pin board that allows users to organize and share their favorite photos and videos with followers.

Today through August 22, 2012, Norwegian is inviting social media users to join in and “Pin to Win” images that represent their “Dream Cruise on Norwegian” for a chance to win a seven-day cruise for two in a balcony stateroom to any of Norwegian’s popular destinations such as Alaska, Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii and more

Monday, August 13, 2012

Britain’s Got Talent winners Pudsey and Ashleigh entertain aboard Queen Mary 2

N E W S 

 Pudsey demonstrates his winning talent with trainer Ashleigh Butler 

13 August 2012Britain's Got Talent Winners Pudsey and Ashleigh returned home to England on board Cunard's flagship Queen Mary 2 after a month of taking their winning performance across the United States.

 During the seven-night Transatlantic Crossing on the grandest ocean liner in the world, Pudsey and Ashleigh charmed the ship's 2,600 guests as Pudsey danced on his hind legs, jumped through hoops, and spun around as part of their popular Charleston dance routine. Ever the entertainer, Pudsey couldn't resist performing for the crowd on the quayside as they disembarked in Southampton on 10 August.

Friday, August 10, 2012

Princess Cruises passengers meet soldier who sent telegraph announcing end of WWII in Europe


Gregory Melikian is one of Last Surviving Witnesses to End of the War
Captain Edward Perrin met with Gregory Melikian on the Star Princess bridge.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 9, 2012) – Princess Cruises passengers aboard Star Princess last week were treated to a special presentation from the soldier who sent the message ending World War II in Europe.

When he was an Army Signal Corps sergeant in 1945, 20-year-old Gregory Melikian was tasked with sending the a telegraph message from General Dwight Eisenhower announcing the end of the war in Europe.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Food & Wine and Royal Caribbean International partner to deliver "The Art of Preparation"


For Immediate Release

From Spices and Beer to Pizza and Cocktails, Hand-Selected Epicurean Masters Share Their Craft in a New Online Video Series

New York, NY (August 7, 2012) — FOOD & WINE® announced today its latest online editorial section, “Masters Series: Lessons from the Experts,”  highlighting extraordinary experts and artisans in fields ranging from brewing to baking.

Inspired by this initiative, “The Art of Preparation” is a multi-platform program featuring FOOD & WINE and Royal Caribbean International “Masters” in a branded content experience. FOOD & WINE Marketing and Mindshare co-developed “The Art of Preparation” specifically for Royal Caribbean International.

Royal Princess' expanded Lotus Spa features “The Enclave” Thermal Suite


Princess Cruises Reveals the Ultimate in Relaxation Aboard Royal Princess


The hydro-therapy pool with its cascading rain shower is one of the options in The Enclave of Royal Princess’ Lotus Spa.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 8, 2012) – In anticipation of National Relaxation Day next week, Princess Cruises today unveiled details of the expanded Lotus Spa that will offer the ultimate in rejuvenation for passengers cruising aboard the new Royal Princess, including a new location just off the atrium – a convenient stop for passengers enjoying a treatment before or after the many activities and dining options nearby.

When the ship debuts next June, cruisers will find a spa with a welcoming feel and contemporary, sophisticated décor, as well as more treatment rooms than any other Princess spa.


Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Michael Jackson, Donna Summer and Jimmy Buffet tribute artists debut on Norwegian Epic

NEW LEGENDS LINEUP WILL ROCK NORWEGIAN EPIC THIS FALL

MIAMI – August 2, 2012 - Norwegian Cruise Line today announced the next three "Legends" to perform as part of Legends in Concert on board Norwegian Epic beginning Saturday, November 3, 2012, when the ship returns to Miami, Florida to begin her weekly Eastern Caribbean sailings.

The tribute artists will perform as some of the world's most recognized entertainers – Michael Jackson, Donna Summer and Jimmy Buffet.   A staple on the Las Vegas center strip for over 25 years, Legends in Concert is the pioneer of live tribute shows and has assembled the greatest collection of live tribute artists and celebrity look-alikes in all of show business.

Wilderness Adventurer expedition vessel ready for outdoor enthusiasts

 For Immediate Release

Alaska Unleashed: InnerSea Discoveries Plans Three Alaska Cruises For  Extended Wilderness Adventures

Seattle, WA, August 7, 2012 –  To satisfy outdoor adventure cravings in the remote wilderness of Southeast Alaska, InnerSea Discoveries dedicates the Wilderness Adventurer to three Alaska Unleashed departures in summer 2013. The itinerary promises longer and more exhilarating hiking and kayaking adventures in daily small-group excursions.

Sailing between Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska and reverse, weeklong un-cruise adventures depart on June 8, July 13 and August 10, 2013. A regional expert sails aboard each cruise to share knowledge of the area’s ecology, history and culture.

Princess Cruises launches “How I Escape Completely” Pinterest contest


Most Creative “Pinners” to Win Relaxation Kit

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 1, 2012) – Princess Cruises has launched its first-ever Pinterest contest, asking fans to show “How I Escape Completely” through relaxing images. Using the social “pinboard” site, entrants can create their own boards depicting exactly what “escape completely” means to them.

The top five boards will win a Sanctuary Relaxation Kit, complete with a Lotus Spa plush robe, skin nourishing milk bath and an iPod® with a $50 iTunes® gift card. The contest runs from August 1-14, 2012 – leading up to National Relaxation Day on August 15.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Norwegian Cruise Line transatlantic Bonus Days offer ends today


Receive $100 to spend on board on all new Transatlantic and Repositioning cruise bookings,
plus e-coupon booklets and free upgrades on select sailings

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching a “Transatlantic and Repositioning Bonus Days” offer today, August 6, 2012, providing guests the opportunity to save on all Transatlantic, Panama Canal, Pacific Coastal and Repositioning sailings.

 Guests who take advantage of this limited time offer will receive $100 to spend on board, upgrades on applicable 2013-2014 sailings and an e-coupon booklet with more than $300 in on-board savings when they make a new Transatlantic or Repositioning cruise reservation before August 7, 2012. 

Princess Cruises' survey reveals generational divide over relaxation habits



Princess Cruises’ Annual Relaxation Report Shows Boomers More Likely to Completely Check Out
from Work and Social Media on Vacation than Younger Millennials

 
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (Aug. 7, 2012) – The 2012 Princess Cruises Relaxation Report, commissioned in celebration of National Relaxation Day on Aug. 15, revealed that Boomers and their adult children’s generation of Millennials have very different vacation habits, from social media vices to work-life balance, with the latter finding it more difficult to, or simply refusing to, truly disconnect while on holiday.

The national survey found that Boomers (approximately 48-66 years of age) take their vacation time seriously, with more than one in three finding it impossible to go an entire vacation without doing anything work-related.


In contrast, nearly six out of 10 Millennials (approximately 18-31 years of age) would not be able to completely disconnect from work on vacation.

Silversea Cruises enhances sleep experience with Partesi bed linens

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 
(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- August 7, 2012) Silversea guests will soon find their sleep experience elevated to a new level of comfort and luxury with the debut of Pratesi custom-made bed linens.

Founded in 1860 and renowned for creating masterpieces in linens for the Italian and European aristocracy, the legendary Italian linens firm is bringing its high-quality and stylish creations to the beds in every Silversea suite beginning with the September 3 voyage of Silver Spirit, followed by Silver Cloud in November. Pratesi bedding will then be rolled out to the rest of the Silversea fleet in 2013.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Goldman named to senior post of casino operations at Carnival Corporation

News Release 

            MIAMI (August 1, 2012) -- Marty Goldman has been appointed senior vice president of corporate casino operations for Miami-based Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world’s largest cruise vacation group.

            In this capacity, Goldman is responsible for the continued development of shipboard casinos across the company’s cruise brands.  Goldman will join Carnival on August 8 and will report to Richard Ames, Carnival Corporation & plc’s senior vice president of shared services.