A collection of every news article on CruiseReport.com

Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Crystal Cruises Announces Reduced Deposits for Select 2020 European Summer Voyages

MIAMI, January 9, 2020 – Making it easier than ever to plan a luxury cruise to the Mediterranean, Crystal Cruises is offering reduced deposits of $100 for a dozen Crystal Serenity sailings and one Crystal Symphony sailing in 2020. The select voyages range from seven to 13 nights from April through August and explore some of the most coveted locales along the French and Italian rivieras, Dalmatian Coast, Spanish Coast, Greek Isles and Western Europe.

Crystal Serenity

  • April 21, 2020 (12 nights), Rome to Monte Carlo

  • May 3, 2020 (7 nights), Monte Carlo to Venice

  • May 10, 2020 (12 nights), Venice to Barcelona

  • May 31, 2020 (7 nights), Rome to Venice

  • June 14, 2020 (12 nights), Athens to Barcelona

  • July 3, 2020 (7 nights), Rome to Monte Carlo

  • July 10, 2020 (9 nights), Monte Carlo to Venice

  • July 31, 2020 (9 nights), Rome to Barcelona

  • August 9, 2020 (7 nights), Barcelona to Monte Carlo

  • August 16, 2020 (7 nights), Monte Carlo to Rome

  • August 23, 2020 (7 nights), Rome to Barcelona

  • August 30, 2020 (13 nights), Barcelona to Québec City

Crystal Symphony

  • August 19, 2020 (13 nights), Amsterdam to Barcelona

The reduced deposit promotion is valid for all new bookings made during Crystal’s current
Book Now Savings window, which launches today and runs through March 4, 2020, allowing guests to take advantage of the best possible fares on Crystal’s all-inclusive luxury with the added incentive of the low deposit. The $100 deposit is just a fraction of the standard deposit of 25 percent of the cruise fare. The final payment requirement of 120 days prior to sailing remains the same during the promotion.

About Crystal

Only the world-renowned Crystal Experience offers an unwavering, unparalleled standard of excellence and luxury across four distinct cruising options: Crystal Cruises, the World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line; Crystal River Cruises, the World’s Most Luxurious River Cruise Line; Crystal Yacht Cruises, offering boutique luxury and bold adventure in the world’s most elite harbors; and Crystal Expedition Cruises, taking Crystal’s acclaimed elegance to the farthest reaches of the world. Crystal has been recognized with top honors in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for a record 26 years including, in 2019, for Best Medium-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Cruises, Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Yacht Cruises and Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises. Crystal was also voted “World’s Best” by the readers of Travel + Leisure for 20 years; and won “Cruise Line of the Year” and “Most Luxurious Guest Experience” by Virtuoso for 2018 & 2019. Crystal is proud to be a platinum partner of the advisors of ASTA.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel advisor, call 888.799.2437,or visit www.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who subscribe to the Crystal Insider blog, follow Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page; @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram; @crystalrivercruises on Instagram; and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises, #crystalrivercruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Oceania Cruises Welcomes Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream

Irreverent, Artisanal Ice Cream Flavors That Color Outside the Lines

Irreverent, Artisanal Ice Cream Flavors That Color Outside the Lines

Miami, FL – January 9, 2020 - Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, will introduce the big personality of the fabled small-batch Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream brand to guests sailing aboard the line’s six ships, in yet another ground-breaking first in the OceaniaNEXT campaign of enhancements.

“Oceania Cruises is always seeking to present the widest array of unique and intriguing culinary experiences. From the extravagance of the six-course Dom Perignon Experience to our new offering of Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream, our guests can always expect the unexpected” stated Bob Binder, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises.

Acclaimed year after year for serving the finest cuisine at sea, the brand is renowned for its culinary diversity and creativity. From the signature Polo Grill steakhouse serving 28-day dry-aged USDA prime beef, including a 32-ounce Queen’s Cut Prime Rib, to the ground-breaking new Aquamar Vitality Cuisine which includes more than 250 gourmet plant-based dishes, the depth and breadth of Oceania Cruises’ culinary offerings is unequaled. All dishes onboard are prepared to order and everything onboard, including the Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream, is made from scratch, daily. Only the freshest, finest ingredients are used with a sharp focus on locally sourced produce, fresh fish, artisanal flours, cheeses, chocolates, and butter among others.

Synonymous with unique flavors created using artisanal, local ingredients, Humphry Slocombe is the perfect new addition to Oceania Cruises’ hallmark Finest Cuisine at Sea. To celebrate the partnership, Humphry Slocombe co-founders Jake Godby (Chef) and Sean Vahey (Food & Beverage Manager) collaborated with Oceania Cruises’ culinary team to develop a new, signature ice cream flavor for the brand in addition to offering 13 other playful all-time favorite flavors which are made from scratch daily, onboard.

’Humphry Slocombe at sea’ is just not something I ever would have thought possible. But here we are on Oceania Cruises bringing unexpected pleasures across the globe. We share the goal with Oceania of creating unique and delicious moments through food and couldn’t be more excited by this partnership.” stated Jake Godby, co-founder and chef Humphry Slocombe.

Oceania Cruises will introduce its own signature flavor – “Regatta Royale” which is comprised of bittersweet dark fruity chocolate from Berkley, California based TCHO Chocolate with orange zest and smoked sea salt.

Additional flavors to be served onboard include:

Secret Breakfast – Humphry Slocombe’s best-selling flavor. Bourbon ice cream with cornflake cookies.
Elvis (the Fat Years) – roasted banana ice cream with bacon peanut brittle
Toast & Jam – brown-butter ice cream with pieces of brioche and jam swirl
After School Special – vanilla ice cream with chocolate covered potato chips and caramel swirl
Harvey Milk & Honey Graham – made with raw blackberry honey from the Pacifica Northwest and house-made graham crackers
Roasted White Chocolate with Lavender – roasted white chocolate ice cream infused with lavender
Meyer Lemon Pound Cake – meyer lemon ice cream with pound cake
Peanut Butter Fudge Ripple – natural peanut butter ice cream with fudge swirl
Vietnamese Coffee – coffee, condensed milk, and roasted chicory
Sweet Summer Corn – fresh shucked corn ice cream
Black Sesame – roasted black sesame ice cream
White Miso Apple – miso apple ice cream
Fernet Fudge – dark fernet chocolate ice cream with fernet fudge swirl

Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream will premiere aboard the line’s Marina and Riviera in February and fleet-wide by mid-May. Humphry Slocombe will feature Oceania Cruises’ signature flavor for the entire month of January at all four of its scoop shops.

About Humphry Slocombe

Rebellious and unapologetic, Humphry Slocombe’s ice cream has its own personality and flavors that appeal to adult tastes but is loved by all. Humphry Slocombe has almost 300K followers on social media and was recently named one of “San Francisco’s Most Delicious Instagram Accounts” by 7X7 Magazine.

It has also attracted attention from the national press including feature articles in The New York Times Magazine and Bon Appetit and several television appearances, such as the “Top 5 Ice Creams in America” spot by Food Network. Welcome to the bizarre, delicious, frozen universe of Humphry Slocombe. www.HumprySlocombe.com

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Legends of Cruising 2020: Silversea Guests Embark on the First-ever 7-continent World Cruise

For the first time in history, travelers have embarked on a seven-continent World Cruise.

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(Monaco -- January 8, 2020) For the first time in history, travelers have embarked on a seven-continent World Cruise. Silversea’s Silver Whisper set sail on the Legends of Cruising 2020 on January 6, departing Fort Lauderdale for Amsterdam, where guests will arrive on May 25 having circumnavigated the world. Pushing the boundaries of travel, guests on Silversea’s World Cruise 2020 will travel deep into 62 destinations in 32 countries, including the Antarctic Peninsula over three days.

AN EXCLUSIVE BON VOYAGE

Designed by the ultra-luxury cruise line’s team of destination experts, many exclusive events will enrich the pioneering 140-day voyage for guests. Many Silversea executives were in attendance at a bespoke bon voyage event on January 5—including the cruise line’s President and CEO Roberto Martinoli—as world-cruising guests convened ahead of the cruise. Held at The Breakers, an aptly luxurious resort in Palm Beach, the bon voyage reception enabled the travelers to socialize and share their excitement for the journey to come.

“It was an honor to bid our guests bon voyage ahead of our World Cruise 2020,” says Roberto Martinoli. “Legends of Cruising is our most immersive World Cruise to date, offering an unprecedented range of experiences. From Fort Lauderdale to Amsterdam, Antarctica to Aqaba, the variety of destinations discovered by our guests will showcase the authentic beauty of the world like never before. Our guests’ enthusiasm for the voyage has been reflected in the exceptionally strong booking numbers.”

A COCKTAIL AROUND THE WORLD

Among the array of enhancements planned for the Legends of Cruising World Cruise 2020 is a pioneering new cocktail program, which will immerse guests in sailed destinations through regional drinks and local ingredients, as well as the fascinating stories behind each. Previewing Silversea’s new S.A.L.T. program, which will be inaugurated with the launch of Silver Moon in August 2020, the new cocktail offering will comprise 62 cocktails that will create a sense of place, inspired by the distinctive characteristics of each visited region. Guests will also enjoy cocktail masterclasses, as they learn to mix their own beverages, and will sample cocktail pairings to discover new flavors. Guests will be gifted a special gift box, which will contain a book full of recipes and the stories behind all featured cocktails, meaning they can continue the party once home.

AN ENHANCED WORLD CRUISE EXPERIENCE

To enrich the experience exclusively for world-cruising guests, Silversea Cruises has introduced a collection of 33 brand new, bespoke shore experiences for 2020 – the World Cruise Collection. Travelers can embark on a musical and culinary journey in San Juan hosted by an acclaimed artist; attend a private performance of a world-renowned folkloric ballet troupe in Salvador da Bahia; delve into the Polynesian culture with a celebrated anthropologist in Moorea; savor a four-course lunch, prepared by a celebrity chef, in Singapore; indulge in a candlelight dinner under the stars in the Red Sea desert; marvel at Caravaggio's masterpieces in Rome's churches and museums; and tour the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh with the last-serving admiral, among other special experiences.

Also, for the very first time on a Silversea World Cruise, travelers will benefit from Zodiacs activities, supervised by the cruise line’s industry-leading Expedition Team, enabling them to indulge their curiosity for discovery under the guidance of experts. In the Antarctic Peninsula, for example, Silversea’s Expedition Team members will lead Zodiac tours on which guests are likely to witness penguins, seals and other animals in their natural environment, as well as large icebergs, before landing at designating landing spots for on-shore discovery.

A strong line up of guest lecturers will enrich a fascinating entertainment program for guests: John & Tracy Fleming, Michael Buerk, Bill Miller, Tony Leon, Tom Keneally, James Bradley, Mark Elovitz and Piet De Vries will all take to the stage*. Personalized gifts, guest entertainers, local shows, and themed evenings will enrich the experience further still.

THE FIRST-EVER EXPEDITION WORLD CRUISE - 2021

Silversea will welcome guests aboard two pioneering World Cruises in 2021, including the world’s first-ever Expedition World Cruise. Offering distinct sets of experiences and differing ways to discover our planet, the Finest World Tour and the Uncharted World Tour will enable Silversea’s guests to travel the world on their own terms, as they cruise in superlative comfort.

TRADEMARK COMFORT ABOARD SILVER WHISPER

Aboard Silver Whisper, as on all Silversea vessels, travelers will enjoy Silversea’s trademark level of service and luxury accommodations. Each of the ship’s ocean-view suites provides guests with the personalized service of a butler; a 24-hour in-suite dining service; a bottle of champagne upon arrival and a drinks bar, stocked with guests’ preferred beverages; fine dining, including complimentary caviar on demand, canapés, and a rich offering of seafood and steak; and an array of other inclusive amenities.

Find out more information about Silversea’s future World Cruises:
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/world-cruise.html

Download related media:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/6za4vu82gd1ml68/AADjhYSbCGCsbTVssGrvs0sKa?dl=0

*subject to change.

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please call toll-free (888) 978-4070, or contact a travel agent.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Crystal Storytellers Podcast Returns With New Episodes

Astronaut and U.S. Navy commander, veteran political correspondent, royal diplomat, best-selling author, Tony Award-winning producer and Arctic explorer headline second half of enrichment series’ first season

MIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 7, 2020 – Crystal Storytellers, the new podcast that brings some of the world’s most intriguing experts to listeners directly from Crystal’s award-winning luxury ships, has returned today following a brief holiday hiatus. The second half of the series’ first season features retired astronaut and U.S. Navy Commander Scott Kelly; renowned journalist and White House expert Ken Walsh; retired ambassador and veteran of the British Diplomatic Service Sir Michael Burton; acclaimed inspirational author Leslie Morgan Steiner; multiple award-winning Broadway producer Kevin McCollum; and Arctic, Antarctic and South African explorer Rob Caskie, all sharing tales from their respective global careers and experiences.

“The response to the debut of Crystal Storytellers has been wonderful, as our guests are loving the ability to learn about Crystal’s enrichment experts no matter where they are in the world,” said Crystal’s senior vice president of marketing and sales, Carmen Roig. “Podcasts are now one of the most popular ways for people to engage with topics and people that fascinate them, which makes the medium a natural platform for Crystal to pursue, as enriching connections to the world and the people who explore it have been part of our brand since the beginning.”

In today’s episode, Scott Kelly discusses his untraditional path to aviation and pioneering space missions after struggling in school as a child and his years of subsequent perseverance. In upcoming episodes, Ken Walsh shares his family’s passion for current events and the childhood motivation for dessert that sparked his early interest in communication, while a “father-son career talk” began Sir Michael Burton’s path to diplomacy. Additionally, author Leslie Morgan Steiner recounts the life events that inspired her many best-selling books that have changed the lives of women around the world; Broadway producer Kevin McCollum and Crystal on Broadway partner shares the many roles he plays behind the scenes of the stage’s biggest hits; and explorer, filmmaker and photographer Rob Caskie describes the ways in which travel shapes who people become and their perspectives of the world.

Episode 6 of the weekly Crystal Storytellers podcast, featuring Kelly, is available today, along with the first five episodes, via most major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn (available through the Alexa app), Castbox, Castro, Overcast, Pocket Cast and Podchaser. Previous episodes include Kathy Reichs, novelist and television producer of the hit series, Bones; Bruce McGill, an American actor known for his memorable roles in both film and television including National Lampoon’s Animal House; General Anthony Zinni, a retired United States Marine Corps Four Star General, former Commander in Chief for the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and former special envoy to Israel and the Palestinian Authority; Melissa Manchester, a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress; and Michele Lee, a performer, philanthropist, award winning actress, singer, director and producer.

Crystal became the first cruise line to offer an enrichment series beyond its ships, as an extension of the engaging programming of the Crystal Visions Lecture Series® featured on board. Each episode of Crystal Storytellers features an expert guest speaker from a Crystal voyage in conversation with the ship’s Cruise Director about their respective areas of expertise, as well as highlights of their Crystal cruise and anecdotes about their careers and personal interests.

About Crystal

Only the world-renowned Crystal Experience offers an unwavering, unparalleled standard of excellence and luxury across four distinct cruising options: Crystal Cruises, the World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line; Crystal River Cruises, the World’s Most Luxurious River Cruise Line; Crystal Yacht Cruises, offering boutique luxury and bold adventure in the world’s most elite harbors; and Crystal Expedition Cruises, taking Crystal’s acclaimed elegance to the farthest reaches of the world. Crystal has been recognized with top honors in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for a record 26 years including, in 2019, for Best Medium-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Cruises, Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Yacht Cruises and Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises. Crystal was also voted “World’s Best” by the readers of Travel + Leisure for 20 years; and won “Cruise Line of the Year” and “Most Luxurious Guest Experience” by Virtuoso for 2018 & 2019. Crystal is proud to be a platinum partner of the advisors of ASTA.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel advisor, call 888.799.2437, or visit www.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who subscribe to the Crystal Insider blog, follow Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page; @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram; @crystalrivercruises on Instagram; and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises, #crystalrivercruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

MSC Cruises’ Highly Anticipated 2020 World Cruise Departs for a 117-day Unforgettable Voyage

8 content creators hand-selected to share their experience onboard

  • 43 exotic and aspirational destinations across 23 countries and 5 continents

  • An outstanding line-up of 10 international chefs on board

  • 8 content creators hand-selected to share their experience onboard

Geneva, Switzerland (January 6, 2020) ─ MSC Cruises, the world’s fastest-growing cruise line has wished ‘Bon voyage’ to guests aboard MSC Magnifica as she departed from Genoa, Italy yesterday for the Company’s second world cruise. Guests are on their way to discovering the world during this 117-day voyage, while only unpacking once. They will not only visit 43 amazing destinations across 5 continents but also experience a gastronomic journey through an international dining program on board from ten award-wining chefs.

Coming from around the world, these chefs represent the best of their respective cuisines in Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Peru, Hawaii, China, India and Germany. Each will join the cruise at different intervals to prepare a complete menu with three to four dishes for guests. These special menus have been created to reflect the chef’s culinary flair and bring flavors of the world cruise destinations to life.

During each exclusive dinner, the chefs will be on hand to greet the guests in person, while they enjoy the dishes. Guests will also be able to take part in a culinary demonstration held by most of the chefs, giving them the opportunity to see the expertise in action and learn how to prepare newly discovered cuisines once back on land.

The impressive line-up of chefs includes:

Two Michelin-starred Spanish Chef Ramón Freixa

Known for his ability to create a balance between tradition and avant-garde, Freixa takes inspiration from his Mediterranean roots. He will bring excellence in Spanish gastronomy with an innovative and modern style for guests.

Veteran Brazilian Chef and restauranteur Allan Vila Espejo

Espejo will present his signature menu introducing guests to his rich culture and take on Brazilian fine dining.

Bake Off Argentina star Chef Christophe Krywonis

Trained in Paris, Chef Krywonis has refined his craft in French cuisine and will offer his own style of French gastronomy at its best.

MasterChef Colombia judge Chef Jorge Rausch

Chef Rausch is known for his innovative and modern style infused and inspired by his Colombian roots.

Chef James Berckemeyer

This Peruvian chef will introduce guests to a refined and modern spin on comfort food and “hearty meals with a little taste of home.”

Internationally-renowned Japanese-American Chef Roy Yamaguchi

A pioneer of his cuisine, Chef Yamaguchi will help guests discover a menu enriched with pan-Asian flavors and Hawaiian fusion cuisine.

Sydney Morning Herald’s “Chef of the Year,” French-Canadian Chef Serge Dansereau

Arguably Quebec’s most famous chef, Dansereau will delight guests with an exclusive menu inspired by France with an international twist.

Acclaimed Chinese Chef Jereme Leung

Chef Leung will bring a mouth-watering menu of his contemporary interpretation of Chinese cuisine along with a modern approach to presentation.

Decorated Indian-American Chef Vikas Khanna

Michelin starred Chef Khanna will create a delicious menu inspired by his Indian heritage.

Three Michelin starred German Chef Harald Wohlfahrt

Joining the ship for the last leg of her journey, Chef Wohlfahrt will showcase his passion for haute cuisine and love for natural and fresh ingredients.

MSC Cruises has enlisted a team of content creators to take part in the second round-the-world relay race at sea on board MSC Magnifica. The eight content creators will publish their once-in-a-lifetime vacation as they sail different segments of the cruise in a relay with one another. Each a curious traveler, they will capture their experiences, share their passion for travel and bring their fans closer to the worlds that they discover.

These eight avid voyagers will curate stories powered by their own spin on storytelling and the “made by humans” concept. In partnership with Instax, the content creator disembarking will pass on a Fuji Hybrid Camera, as a “baton,” making this incredible storytelling continue, port after port. Each of these content creators will meet and interact with local people ashore in the 23 different countries, an impressive way of creating inspiring stories on their daily discovery. The MSC Cruises relay team consists of Evan Edinger (US), MolaViajar (Spain), Sami & Vale (Chile), Kenza SMG (France), Travel and Share (Brazil), Emre Durmuş (Turkey), Marcello Ascani (Italy), Ceci De Viaje (Argentina).

To view the teaser for the relay race, click here.

Guests are still able to book last-remaining staterooms for the MSC World Cruise departing in January 2021 and January 2022, for more information please visit www.msccruises.com.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Wave Season Specials from Abercrombie & Kent

These special offers are good through March 2020

Arctic Cruise Adventure: In Search of the Polar Bear

Book by Mar 31, 2020, and save up to $6,000 per stateroom. In addition, receive a further $1,500 per-person air credit when you reserve your international air through A&K. Solo travellers save 50% on the single supplement in stateroom categories 1-3.

  • Join Fiann Paul, captain of The Impossible Row, a rowing expedition that just accomplished an incredible feat: the first completely human powered ocean row team to cross the Drake Passage. Captain Fiann Paul is known for being the fastest and the most record-breaking ocean rower in the world today. Upon completion of this voyage, he became the first person to row five oceans -- and the first person to complete the Ocean Explorers Grand Slam. He will be sharing his experiences as Explorer-in-Residence on Abercrombie & Kent’s Arctic cruises in 2020.

Ultimate Iceland & Greenland Cruise

Book by Mar 31, 2020, and save up to $6,000 per stateroom. In addition, receive a further $1,500 per-person air credit when you reserve your international air through A&K. Solo travellers waive the single supplement in stateroom categories 1-3.

  • This unique voyage offers guests a choice of expertly designed shore excursions that appeal to cultural enthusiasts, families and active thrill-seekers led by famed mountaineer Alex Pancoe, who just completed the Explorers Grand Slam, an adventurers’ challenge consisting of climbing the Seven Summits – the highest mountains on each continent — as well as cross-country skiing the final degree to the North and South Poles.

Northwest Passage: From Greenland to the Bering Sea

Book by Mar 31, 2020, and save up to $11,000 per stateroom. In addition, receive a further $1,500 per-person air credit when you reserve your international air through A&K. Solo travellers save 50% on the single supplement in stateroom categories 1-3.

  • Join A&K’s world-class Expedition Team on a cruise through the rarely-transited Northwest Passage, embarking on an extraordinary expedition aboard commanding ‘Le Boreal’ from western Greenland to Nome, Alaska, all while following in the footsteps of the greatest explorers. Cruise for 21 nights through the Arctic’s wildest regions on luxurious ‘Le Boreal,’ enjoying all-balcony accommodations and a guest capacity limited to just 199, only when exclusively chartered by A&K

Wonders of Japan Cruise

Save up to $6,000 per stateroom. Solo travellers can also save 50% on the single supplement in stateroom categories 1-3 when reserved by Mar 31, 2020.

  • Experience fascinating Japan with A&K’s passionate experts and enrichment specialists, cruising on exclusively chartered ‘Le Soleal’ to stunning, unique ports that include Takamatsu, Hiroshima, Karatsu, Matsue, Kanazawa, Sado-ga-shima, Noshiro/Aomori and South Korea’s Ulsan. Cruise for 11 nights on stunning, luxurious ‘Le Soleal.’ Design Your Day and choose from an array of included, expertly led shore excursions that delve deeper into Japanese culture, art, gardens, history and economics

Italy Cruise: Hidden Treasures from Florence to Venice
Save up to $2,000 per stateroom. Solo travellers can also save 50% on the single supplement on stateroom categories 1-3 when reserved by Mar 31, 2020.

  • Back by popular demand in 2020, this all-encompassing voyage led by our experts explores nearly the entire navigable coast of Italy. Enjoy two days in Florence before cruising on all-balcony ‘Le Bougainville’ to treasures from Rome, Venice and Sicily to Puglia’s Gargano National Park, Urbino and Bastia on French Corsica.

2020-21 Antarctica Cruises

Book early and save up to $11,000 per stateroom on 2020-21 Antarctica Cruises when reserved by Mar 31, 2020.

Cruising the Mekong: Siam Saigon, & Angkor Wat

Solo travellers save 50% on the single supplement on select departures.

  • Cruise for seven nights on an exclusive charter of 24-guest ‘Mekong Princess,’ a luxurious, boutique river cruiser, accompanied throughout by an A&K Resident Tour Director. Gain deeper insight into Southeast Asia’s varied, intertwined river cultures through interactions with local villagers, families in their homes and monks in pagodas. Explore magnificent Angkor Wat at sunset, with an expert guide at your side. Thanks to your ship’s smaller size, access authentic, less-frequented locales ranging from little-known islands to a port nestled in the heart of vibrant Saigon

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

New Year, Big Savings on a Small Ship Adventure Cruise

UnCruise Adventures offers savings on 2020 sailings in Alaska, Mexico, Hawaii, Latin America

UnCruise Adventures offers savings on 2020 sailings in Alaska, Mexico, Hawaii, Latin America

SEATTLE, Jan. 2, 2020 – Travelers planning an adventure in the new year have two months to save on adventure cruises with UnCruise Adventures. The line is offering up to $1,000 per couple in adventure savings in Alaska, Mexico, Costa Rica & Panama, Belize & Guatemala, Colombia & Panama and Hawaii. A suite deal offers groups a savings on larger suites.

Ships carrying 22-86 guests sail adventure cruises with a focus on nature and wildlife. Adventure activities are included in every UnCruise—kayaking, hiking, beachcombing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, skiff excursions and wildlife searches.

“Plan your travel now and enjoy the anticipation of a memorable adventure in 2020,” said Captain Dan Blanchard, owner and CEO of UnCruise Adventures. “Go explore the wilds of Alaska or snorkel in Belize. Whatever it is, get outside your comfort zone and discover something new.”

Offers are available on new reservations for select 2020 departures booked between January 2 and February 28, 2020. Mention a savings code to receive the offer.

Southeast Alaska

Save up to $1,000 per couple on weeklong Alaska adventures aboard the 84-guest Safari Endeavour and the 86-guest Legacy when booking a commander cabin or higher category. The Safari Endeavour sails from Juneau and Sitka and the Legacy sails from Juneau and Ketchikan. Mention code WAVE1000AK.

Save up to $500 per couple on weeklong Alaska adventure cruises aboard the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer and 74-guest Wilderness Explorer when booking a trailblazer cabin or higher category. Both ships sail from Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan. Mention code WAVE500AK.

With few or no port calls, every Alaska cruise includes daily adventure activities in remote wilderness. Flexible itineraries and the small group size facilitate unimpeded exploration and time to search for and watch wildlife.

Hawaiian Islands

In celebration of its first year of year-round Hawaii sailings, a savings offer of $700 per couple is offered on weeklong Hawaii cruises departing between March 7 – September 5, 2020. The 36-guest Safari Explorer yacht visits Hawai’i, Molokai, Lanai and Maui with included activities exploring land and sea. Cultural heritage is a key component of the UnCruise experience in the islands with a full day spent with locals on Molokai. Mention code 700HI20.

Latin America: Belize, Guatemala, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica

The 66-guest Safari Voyager sails adventure cruises in Latin America. Belize and Colombia itineraries are new in fall 2020. Save $800 per couple on seven-night Costa Rica & Panama, Belize & Guatemala, and Colombia & Panama cruises departing between April 20 and December 5, 2020. Mention code 800LAM20. Save $1,000 per couple on 10-night Costa Rica & Panama cruises departing January 9 through March 29, 2020. Mention code 1000CRP10N.

Mexico’s Sea of Cortés

Save $700 per couple on Sea of Cortés cruises departing January 4 through April 4, 2020 when booking a commander cabin or higher category. The 84-guest Safari Endeavour explores the marine life rich waters of Baja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on weeklong adventures roundtrip from San Jose del Cabo. Activities include snorkeling with sea lions at Los Islotes, whale and marine life searches, desert hikes and remote beach explorations, a mule ride with local rancheros, and close up encounters with gray whales and calves at Magdalena Bay during calving season. Mention code 700MEX20.

Suite Deal

Families and other groups booking four or more cabins aboard the Legacy, Safari Voyager or Safari Endeavour on select 2020 Latin America or Alaska adventure cruises can save 50% on a larger suite as the fourth cabin. Suites provide a private gathering and party space for small groups. Save 50% on the 600-sq. foot Owner’s Suite aboard the Legacy and Safari Voyager or a Commodore Suite on the Safari Endeavour. Mention code SUITE2020.

Cruises start at $3,995 (before savings) and are inclusive featuring fresh, innovative meals; all beverages, including alcohol; adventure activities and transfers day of cruise. Port taxes and fees are additional. The offers are combinable with UnCruise’s Loyalty, Referral and Family Discoveries savings programs. To book or to request additional information, contact a travel advisor or UnCruise Adventures at 888-862-8881 or sales@uncruise.com.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Windstar Cruises Announces ‘Wave Season’ Offer on Small Ship Cruises Around the Globe

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Seattle, WA, Jan. 2, 2020 — It’s that time of year again – wave season. And small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has an offer that makes cruising on its boutique ships carrying fewer than 350 passengers even more enticing.

  • Windstar’s “Pick Your Perk” savings for wave season, beginning January 7, includes a choice of the following:

  • $1,000 of onboard spending (for things like shore excursions or spa treatments)

  • Up to $300 airfare credit

  • Unlimited WiFi (up to $70/day)

  • Guests booking a Premium Suite have an additional perk option: Windstar’s popular All-In Package, which includes unlimited Wi-Fi access, unlimited laundry service, hotel and beverage gratuities, and the top shelf Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package featuring all wines by the glass, all beer selections, all mini-bar beverages, and a broad assortment of cocktails (a value of $89 per person, per day).

Plus, guests also receive complimentary wine (up to two bottles per cabin); up to 20 percent savings on Star Collector Voyages (cruises that are 14 days or more); reduced rates for solo travelers; and reduced deposits from $50 per guest. Guests must book by February 28, 2020 to qualify for the Pick Your Perk savings.

In addition, travel advisors can earn a $100 per cabin bonus commission for booking new guests – those who will be sailing with Windstar for the first time ever.

These savings/perks are available on Windstar cruises around the globe, from brand-new itineraries in Australia and New Zealand, to adventurous journeys in Alaska and Canada, or “get the heck out of winter” Caribbean cruise or Costa Rica and Panama Canal cruise.

For the offer’s fine print and more details, visit https://www.windstarcruises.com/perks/

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

MSC Cruises Offers Guests Up to $689 in Added Value With Its “All-in Plus” Offer for Wave Season

Wave Season deal includes a selection of unlimited drinks, WiFi and up to $100 in shipboard credit fleet-wide

· Wave Season deal includes a selection of unlimited drinks, WiFi and up to $100 in shipboard credit fleet-wide

· Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ brand new private island destination in The Bahamas, is a featured destination on Caribbean sailings

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (Dec. 19, 2019) – MSC Cruises – the world’s fastest growing cruise line – is kicking the 2020 Wave Season off early with its “ALL-IN Plus” deal that includes up to $689 in added value fleetwide sailing to destinations around the world. And this year, cruisers booking a Caribbean sailing with MSC Cruises may also have the added benefit of experiencing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve – the cruise line’s new breathtaking private island destination in The Bahamas with endless sweeping vistas of crystal blue waters and pristine beachfront across eight white sandy beaches.

MSC CRUISES ALL-IN DEAL

Now through March 31, 2020, cruisers can enjoy up to $689 in added value per stateroom on a 7-night cruise. Guests booking an inside, ocean view or balcony stateroom on select sailings will receive a selection of unlimited drinks with an Easy Drink Package — including select beer, house wines by the glass, and spirits, non-alcoholic cocktails, soft drinks and juices, bottled water, and classic hot drinks like coffee, espresso, hot tea, and more — a standard WiFi package — offering up to 3.5 GB across 2 devices — and up to $100 in shipboard credit, depending on category booked.

This deal is available fleetwide with cruises in North America, Europe, the United Arab Emirates and more. In the Caribbean, guests can select from four ships sailing from Miami, including MSC Seaside, sailing year-round from Miami to the Caribbean; MSC Meraviglia, which just arrived to North America for the first time this fall and sailing seasonally from Miami; MSC Divina, which returned to the U.S. in October and sailing seasonally from Miami; and MSC Armonia, sailing a final year of cruises from Miami before repositioning to home port in Tampa in November 2020.

Interior and Ocean view staterooms: $25 shipboard credit per stateroom + Easy Drink Package + Standard Internet Package

Balcony staterooms and higher: $100 shipboard credit per stateroom + Easy Drink Package + Standard Internet Package (note: unlimited drinks are already included in the Aurea and MSC Yacht Club experiences)

Highlights of Caribbean sailings available for the Wave Season offer include:

MSC Meraviglia

March 8, 2020: 7-night sailing from Miami visiting Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas. Prices start at $709 per person for a balcony stateroom.

December 6, 2020: 7-night sailing from Miami visiting Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Prices start at $849 per person for a balcony stateroom.

MSC Seaside

February 29, 2020: 7-night sailing from Miami visiting Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Prices start at $699 per person for a balcony stateroom.

May 16, 2020: 4-night sailing from Miami visiting Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau, Bahamas. Prices start at $479 per person for a balcony stateroom.

MSC Divina

February 18, 2020: 3-night sailing from Miami visiting Freeport, Grand Bahama and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Prices start at $299 per person for a balcony stateroom.

February 28, 2020: 11-night sailing from Miami visiting Willemstad, Curaçao (overnight stay); Oranjestad, Aruba; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Prices start at $1,109 per person for a balcony stateroom.

MSC Armonia

March 9, 2020: 7-night sailing from Miami visiting Montego Bay, Jamaica; George town, Cayman Islands; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Prices start at $619 per person for a balcony stateroom.

December 4, 2020: 7-night sailing from Tampa visiting Key West, Florida; Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve; Cozumel, Mexico; and Progreso, Mexico. Prices start at $979 per person for a balcony stateroom.

MSC Cruises is the world’s fastest growing cruise line, sailing to more than 200 destinations around the world, offering an enriching and immersive cruise experience inspired by its European heritage. The Company brings together more than 180 nationalities from all over the world to explore new places, discover new cultures and connect with new people. On board, guests can expect to find enriching excursions and onboard activities; refined, international dining, award-winning entertainment; immersive kids and family programs; authentic Balinese spas; and a variety of stylish and comfortable accommodations, all brought together by the very latest guest-friendly technology. MSC Cruises is in the midst of a $12.7 billion (€11.6 billion) investment plan to expand its fleet of beautiful, modern cruise ships from 17 to 25 over the next 8 years.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Seven Seas Splendor™ Year-In-Review: The Journey To Luxury Perfected

MIAMI (Dec. 18, 2019) – The cruise ship that defines luxury perfected – Seven Seas SplendorTM – will make her highly anticipated debut in two months, christened by Godmother Christie Brinkley in Miami on February 21, 2020. This fifth ship in Regent Seven Seas Cruises®’ fleet will set the industry benchmark in exquisite style and comfort, exemplary service, superb cuisine and all-balcony suites as she explores some of the world’s most fascinating destinations.

“Perfecting luxury requires going beyond the expected by anticipating guest desires, elevating each aspect of the experience and refining details to please every guest like they’re our only guest,” said Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Over the past year we have focused on all the details to elevate nearly every Seven Seas Splendor experience for luxury travelers. We can’t wait to show the world what luxury perfected truly means.”

Below is a look back at the journey in 2019 during Seven Seas Splendor’s final full-year of construction to achieve luxury perfected:

January. Regent revealed details of the Regent Suite aboard Seven Seas Splendor, 4,443 square-feet of palatial elegance at sea, complete with an in-suite spa retreat featuring a personal sauna, steam room and treatment area with unlimited spa treatments, unobstructed 270-degree views over the ship’s bow from the 1,300 square-foot wraparound veranda, and a glass-enclosed solarium sitting area on top of the bridge for a Captain’s view to see the world’s most beautiful destinations as Seven Seas Splendor arrives at each port. Guests in the Regent Suite also enjoy first-class air accommodations, a dedicated personal butler to manage all the details of the guests’ experience, a personal car with driver and guide in every port, and the exquisite comfort of a custom, hand-crafted $200,000 Vividus bed from the renowned Hästens brand.

February. Seven Seas Splendor touched water for the first time in Ancona, Italy during her float-out.

March. On International Women’s Day, Regent announced that Captain Serena Melani will helm Seven Seas Splendor, making Captain Melani the first woman in cruise industry history to captain a new ocean cruise ship at launch.

March. Regent unveiled details and additional renderings of the 15 inspiring suite categories aboard Seven Seas Splendor, highlighting intricate features, exquisite finishings and enormous balcony space.

April. Regent revealed how Seven Seas Splendor will elevate the cruise line’s legendary cuisine, with a focus on destination dishes that bring aboard local ingredients.

June. Demonstrating its commitment to offer luxury travelers an unrivaled experience on shore, Regent announced 65 new Mediterranean and Northern Europe shore excursions curated with local tour operators debuting exclusively for guests sailing on the inaugural 2020 season of Seven Seas Splendor, and subsequently available on the rest of the fleet in Europe.

July. Regent shared details of five new theater performances that will debut on Seven Seas Splendor. From a dueling battle between rock and country musical genres to a story of adventure and romance to a thriller filled with intrigue, these lavishly staged musical productions are all produced by Regent’s theatrical team of accomplished choreographers, writers and directors.

October. Regent announced a new globally inspired spa brand originally created for Seven Seas Splendor, and launching fleetwide by January 2020. Serene Spa & Wellness™ will offer exclusive treatments integrating techniques and ingredients from destinations around the world, creating a tranquil haven of health, beauty and wellness that offers restorative treatments and services to soothe both the body and mind.

November. Regent revealed 16 new Culinary Arts Kitchen classes that will debut during the 2020 inaugural season on Seven Seas Splendor.

November. Regent announced the inaugural Seven Seas SplendorTM senior leadership team. The five talented senior officers will lead 542 crew members and are responsible for ensuring the ship’s guests enjoy an unrivaled, personalized and safe experience.

December. Regent announced that world-famous supermodel, glamorous actress, proud mother and successful entrepreneur Christie Brinkley will serve as Godmother to Seven Seas Splendor.

December. Regent unveiled details of the breathtaking $5 million art collection to be permanently displayed aboard Seven Seas Splendor.

December. To help guests celebrate and toast the new ship, Regent announced an impressive collection of 19 new signature cocktails and eight new gins will be offered exclusively on Seven Seas SplendorTM during her inaugural season.

About Seven Seas Splendor
Seven Seas Splendor is a masterpiece from bow to stern that represents perfected luxury. Currently being built in Ancona, Italy, Seven Seas Splendor will offer her 750 guests the most luxurious accommodations as she sails to the world’s iconic destinations and less-familiar hidden gems. During her inaugural 2020 season, Seven Seas Splendor will sail the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

The all-suite, all-balcony ship features more than 46,000 square-feet of Italian marble – over an acre of marble – and her 375 suites include nearly 52,000 square-feet of balcony space – among the largest balconies at sea. The beautifully appointed suites range from the 307 square-foot Veranda Suite to the lavish 4,443 square-foot Regent Suite.

The ship’s exquisite restaurants include Compass Rose, the largest specialty restaurant at sea featuring an extensive, customizable menu; Pacific Rim, a dramatic Pan-Asian restaurant with a mythical dragon greeting guests; Prime 7, an intimate and elegant steakhouse; Chartreuse, featuring classic French fare with a modern twist; and Sette Mari at La Veranda, serving guests authentic Italian specialties and featuring stunning, over-water alcove seating that jets out over the ocean for an even closer connection to the sea, surrounded on three sides by inspiring, magnificent views.

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