Atlas Ocean Voyages Unveils 2021/22 Antarctica Luxpedition℠ Itineraries

Gentoo Penguins, Photo Credit: Michel Verdure

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., May 4, 2020 – Atlas Ocean Voyages, the Luxe-AdventureSM cruise brand, today unveiled its inaugural-winter 2021/22, Antarctica-season itineraries. Starting November 19, 2021, World Navigator, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ newest, expedition ship, will embark on 15 LuxpeditionSM journeys and bring adventurers, modern explorers and like-spirited travelers to the Southernmost Continent, Patagonia and the South Georgia and Sandwich Islands. Guests will be awestruck by towering icebergs; marvel at breathtaking, serene vistas; and come closer than ever before to penguins, large seabirds, seals and sea lions, whales and more. World Navigator’s winter 2021/22 Antarctica season is open for booking, along with her inaugural summer 2021 Holy Land, Black Sea, Mediterranean and South America season.

“Travel is transformative, and there is no region in the world as awe-inspiring as Antarctica,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Adventurers, explorers and like-spirited travelers can now plan their late-2021, all-inclusive voyage of a lifetime to the Southern Continent. And the best way to fully experience this unique region is aboard World Navigator, our safe, small, clean and green, expedition ships.”
Adventurers, modern explorers and like-spirited travelers can save up to $2,000 per suite and stateroom and receive free air travel and more for booking a Luxpedition by June 30, 2020:

• $1,000 savings plus FREE business-class air travel per suite guest

• $500 savings plus FREE economy-class air per Horizon- or Veranda-stateroom guest

• FREE economy-class air per Adventure-stateroom guest

• Reduced, 50-percent deposit

• FREE changes to any itinerary, departing before March 31, 2022.

Adventurers and like-spirited travelers can choose from a dozen round-trip, winter 2021/22 departures on nine-night journeys from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the Antarctic Peninsula. Guests will sail through Neptune’s Bellows and land inside Deception Island’s caldera; visit the Argentine and Spanish research stations; and see Chinstrap Penguins. Guests also will step onto Antarctica proper at Brown Bluff (Paulet Island as an alternate) at the northern tip of the peninsula, and make landings in Neko Harbour or Paradise Bay, and Cuverville Island or Goudier Island, in the Gerlache Straight.

Two longer journeys, each a distinctive, 12-night, round-trip itinerary from Ushuaia, expand guests’ Antarctica adventure. The November 28, 2021, journey will bring guests within the umbra of the Moon on December 4, for a rare, Antarctic-solar eclipse of the sun. Guests also visit the South Shetland Islands, Paulet Island and Brown Bluff, as well as make three landings in the South Georgia and Sandwich Islands. On the February 2, 2022, departure, guests visit all the planned landings as the nine-night itinerary, plus navigate across the Antarctic Circle in pursuit of marine wildlife-spotting for two additional days. Guests will be able to see Antarctic wildlife closer from World Navigator’s Water’s Edge Lookout, the lowest expedition ship’s bow observation area in the industry and the only one with wrap-around, heated benches for extended time out on deck.

World Navigator also will embark on an eight-night Argentine Patagonia and Falkland Islands itinerary, departing November 11, 2021, from Montevideo, Uruguay, to Ushuaia. Guests call at Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn and Port Stanley, U.K. and explore one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems to catch sightings of sea lions, seals, whales, dolphins, and up to five distinct penguin species – King, Magellanic, Gentoo, Rockhopper and Macaroni – along the way.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand that will be defined by simple elegance and delivering authentic, thrilling, and once-in-a-lifetime Luxe-AdventureSM experiences in the world’s most sought-after and remote destinations. Adventurers, explorers and like-spirited travelers will find community aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ safe, small, all-inclusive luxury ships and come together in welcoming and lively venues to share their day’s exploits. Guests indulge in one of 98 luxe suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private balcony.

All Atlas Ocean Voyages journeys include complimentary gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; a free shore excursion in select ports on every itinerary; binoculars and coffee and tea service in every room; meals and snacks; and butler service in suites; as well as parkas for guests to take home and waterproof boots for use ashore.

World Navigator’s construction in Portugal is on schedule and the ship will launch in mid-2021. Safety is the basic building block for the Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B, expedition ship, and all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures are incorporated into World Navigator’s design. The ship also utilizes underwater, forward-looking sonar to confidently navigate icy polar waters. In addition to propeller propulsion, World Navigator’salternate hydrojet propulsion system, helps guests quietly cruise into wildlife-rich Antarctic harbors and calderas without disturbing marine animals. Furthermore, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ ships are among the first to employ the latest conservation and sustainability technologies – leaving nothing behind but footprints in the snow – to help preserve the breathtaking locales and waters they ply for future generations to enjoy. The ship’s Rolls-Royce hybrid power management and propulsion system maximizes World Navigator’s fuel efficiency, consuming as low as one-fifth the fuel compared to cruise ships with conventional systems.

For more information, adventurers and like-spirited travelers can visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com; and follow @AtlasCruises on Facebook and Twitter, and @AtlasOceanVoyages on Instagram. Travel Advisors can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable Luxe-Adventure journey, and visit www.atlasoceanvoyages.com/contact-travel-advisors/ to register as an Atlas Ocean Voyages Advisor.

Carnival Cruise Line Announces Plan to Phase-in Service

Pause in Service Extended, In Combination with Gradual Schedule from Select Homeports

MIAMI, May 4, 2020 – Carnival Cruise Line advised guests and travel agents today of our plan to phase in a resumption in our North American service this summer, beginning on August 1 with a total of eight ships from Miami, Port Canaveral and Galveston. In connection with this plan, our pause in operations will be extended in all other North American and Australian markets through August 31.

The key elements of this plan include:

• All North American cruises from June 27 to July 31 will be cancelled.

• Beginning August 1, we plan to resume cruises on the following ships:

  • Galveston: Carnival Dream, Carnival Freedom and Carnival Vista

  • Miami: Carnival Horizon, Carnival Magic and Carnival Sensation

  • Port Canaveral: Carnival Breeze and Carnival Elation.

• Other than the above referenced service from Galveston, Miami, and Port Canaveral, all other North American and Australian homeport cruises will be cancelled through August 31.

• All Carnival Spirit Alaskan cruises from Seattle will be cancelled, as well as the Carnival Spirit Vancouver-Honolulu cruise on September 25 and the Honolulu-Brisbane transpacific cruise on October 6.

• All Carnival Splendor cruises in Australia from June 19 to August 31 will be cancelled.

Impacted guests and their travel advisors are being notified by email, including options for a combined future cruise credit (FCC) and onboard credit (OBC) package, or a full refund. Booked guests can make their selection online, alleviating the need to contact Carnival’s customer service center, which is still operating in a work-from-home status due to locally-imposed office closures in South Florida.

We are committed to supporting all public health efforts to manage the COVID-19 situation. We are taking a measured approach, focusing our return to service on a select number of homeports where we have more significant operations that are easily accessible by car for the majority of our guests.

We will use this additional time to continue to engage experts, government officials and stakeholders on additional protocols and procedures to protect the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we serve. We appreciate the understanding and support of our guests and travel agent partners and look forward to welcoming them on board as the environment for travel and tourism improves.

To the Curious: Silversea Gifts Their Guests With the Exclusive Tale of Tales Anthology

10 Celebrated creatives—including Paul Theroux, Steve McCurry, Pico Iyer, and more—each contributed to Silversea’s World Cruise 2019 commemorative anthology.

(Monaco – April 30, 2020) Silversea Cruises has published the Tale of Tales anthology, an inspiring collective of works from 10 celebrated creatives who each traveled aboard Silversea’s World Cruise 2019. First published last year and presented exclusively to world-cruising guests, the Tale of Tales has now been published online as a gift to Silversea’s global community to enrich their time at home.

A CELEBRATED LINE-UP OF TALE TELLERS

The one-of-a-kind anthology is available to download on Silversea’s travel blog Discover, as part of a new campaign entitled To the CuriousSM. Readers of the Tale of Tales anthology will enjoy a curated selection of images and stories from world-renowned creatives Jude Deveraux; Pico Iyer; Laksmi Pamuntjak; Sophy Roberts; Tahir Shah; and Paul Theroux; as well as Saroo Brierley, whose incredible search for his biological mother in India was chronicled in the 2016 movie ‘Lion’; Harold Koda, former curator in charge of the Costume Institute of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art; Steve McCurry, one of the most iconic voices in contemporary photography for more than 30 years; and Jeremiah Tower, American celebrity chef. Each of these accomplished creatives sailed aboard Silver Whisper for at least a segment of this epic around-the-world journey, and has taken influence from their travels around the world to contribute a unique work of art to the Tale of Tales anthology.

Silversea's World Cruise 2019, the Tale of Tales, was hosted between 6th January and 19th May of last year, aboard the elegant, all-suite Silver Whisper. Guests journeyed 133 days across the globe to explore 52 ports in more than 30 countries—from America's West Coast, Australia and New Zealand, through Japan, China and Vietnam, to South Africa, Portugal and Great Britain—and dozens of points in between. Along the way, Silversea’s guests enjoyed immersive cultural experiences, such as a bespoke evening at La Bohème at Sydney's iconic Opera House, a traditional tea ceremony and journey on the famous bullet train in Japan, a ride on a classic locomotive through South Africa's sweeping Cape Winelands, and much more.

One of Silversea’s Tale Tellers, essayist and author of numerous acclaimed books, Pico Iyer commented:

"Being part of Silversea’s World Cruise in 2019 was definitely one of the highlights of my recent life. I felt lucky to be the first of the “Tellers of Tales” on the five-month journey, but I quickly realized that I was on a vessel rich with stories: most of the fellow travelers I met had been to places I had barely heard of […] and every encounter brought up rich new tales and prospects for adventure. Perhaps the greatest beauty of the tour was to see that everyone has more tales to tell than one could ever imagine. I boarded the ship as a “Teller of Tales”—someone who has long made his living by writing about my adventures—but I left the ship as an audience of tales, with a long new list of places to go to. Indeed, it was the stories of Antarctica I heard—in the middle of the South Pacific—that moved me to book my next Silversea cruise, to the southernmost continent, almost as soon as I disembarked from this one."

Paul Theroux, Tale Teller and world-renowned writer, added:

"Gliding along the coast of Africa aboard Silver Whisper, I smiled and thought of my experience in travel writer's hype 'Magic Carpet'! But then we docked in the northwest corner of Madagascar, and I truly became Sinbad the sailor, as I encountered the fabulous egg. This book is a collection of fabulous - and fun, and tasty, and life-altering - experiences."

Celebrated photographer Steve McCurry, another of the cruise line’s Tale Tellers, said:

“One of the great features of the Tale of Tales was the stellar list of some of the world's greatest artists and storytellers, many of whom I know personally. These contributors have a great depth of knowledge and unique insights into the part of the world you are traveling to, as well as the experts on board who can explain everything from food to history. Beyond the various lectures and presentations on the ship, there were many informal opportunities to engage with these authors over a drink or meal.”

"For the first time, we are delighted to share the Tale of Tales anthology with our community, a wonderful collection of inspiring stories and images from the distinguished Tale Tellers who sailed aboard our 2019 World Cruise," adds Barbara Muckermann, Silversea's Chief Marketing Officer. "These remarkable moments and narratives reveal the magic of travel, and its ability to stimulate the imagination, open our minds, and inspire us to create deeper connections with the authentic beauty of our planet, its people and cultures."

TO THE CURIOUS

Silversea’s new To the Curious campaign provides the cruise line’s community with a collection of stories, interactive visuals and virtual keepsakes to whet their appetite for travel during these unprecedented times, until the time is right to travel again. Distributed by email and appearing on the Discover blog, recent features have included cocktail-making demonstrations and recipes prepared by the line's mixologists for its new S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) Bar, recommendations for great expedition reads from Conrad Combrink, Silversea's Senior Vice President of Expeditions, and insightful Behind the Lens articles curated by the company's talented photographers.

WORLD CRUISE 2022: THE TALE OF TALES

A new epic story is slated to unfold aboard Silver Whisper's World Cruise 2022: The Tale of Tales, with world-renowned special guests invited on board to each host a segment of this incredible journey, and inspire guests to be the protagonists of their very own Tale of Tales. Featuring immersive travel experiences from the 65th parallel south to the 65th parallel north, touching both Antarctica and Iceland, the 137-day voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Copenhagen departs on January 6, 2022, to unlock a stunning range of cultures, climates and landscapes in 69 destinations across 32 countries and six continents.

Download the Tale of Tales as an e-book on your e-reader or tablet:
https://silversea-discover-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/2020/04/TALE-of-TALES.epub

E-book formatted to read best on Apple's iBooks app running on Macintosh computers and iOS devices.

Download the Tale of Tales as a pdf on any other device:
https://silversea-discover-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/2020/04/Tale-of-Tales.pdf

Browse Silversea’s new campaign, To the Curious:
https://discover.silversea.com/to-the-curious/

Find our more information about Silversea’s Finest World Tour 2021:
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/world-cruise/world-cruise-2021.html

For more information on Silversea’s World Cruise 2022: The Tale of Tales, visit:
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/world-cruise/world-cruise-2022.html

Silversea Cruises Introduces New Measures to Offer Unprecedented Flexibility to Travelers

(Miami, FL -- April 20, 2020) Silversea Cruises today introduces new measures to offer unprecedented flexibility to travelers, enabling them to start planning future trips by taking away the uncertainties of today.

REDUCED DEPOSIT & $1,000 ONBOARD SPENDING CREDIT FOR EVERY BOOKING UNTIL JUNE 30TH

Silversea has reduced its deposit requirement $1,000 per suite for any new booking made before June 30, 2020. Guests who redeem this offer will also receive $1,000 Onboard Spending Credit per suite. The reduced deposit offer applies to all Silversea voyages with the exception of full World Cruises and Grand Voyages. Guests in possession of Future Cruise Credit can also use their credit to take advantage of the offer.

EXPANSION OF ‘CRUISE WITH CONFIDENCE’ PROGRAM

To provide travelers with peace of mind when planning their cruise, Silversea is extending the previously announced ‘Cruise with Confidence’ cancellation program to all voyages currently scheduled to depart before December 31, 2020. Under the policy, guests may cancel their cruise for any reason up to 48 hours prior to sailing and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit for the amount paid, valid for two years from the date of issue. When guests opt for Future Cruise Credit and have paid in full, the travel agent's commission is protected for both the cancelled booking and the future reservation on which the correlating Future Cruise Credit is applied.

"Our new reduced deposit requirement and expanded Cruise with Confidence program are designed to address the uncertainty that our guests may be feeling these days, while providing additional tools for our valued travel partners that will help boost their business during this difficult period," says Mark Conroy, Silversea's Managing Director for the Americas.

SILVERSEA EMBRACES ‘RCL CARES’ PROGRAM

As a member of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea is embracing the RCL Cares program—dedicated to assisting travel professionals in the U.S., Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories who are dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis.

The program offers a variety of services to help educate travel partners as they navigate the myriad of government benefits, including those in the U.S. economic relief measure—the CARES Act. These services will include access to key resources and helpful information pertaining to the financial assistance and other benefits that may be available through the act.

Travel partners can find educational material about the recent legislation, and they will soon have the opportunity to receive more assistance through a resource desk RCL is setting up. The program will not provide legal, tax or financial advice.

Travel professionals can get started with RCL Cares at CruisingPower.com, where they can access highlights of the CARES Act, FAQs, and Small Business Association resources and tips.

NEW TRADE CONTENT SERIES

In the coming days, Silversea will launch Virtual Visit, a series of online videos designed to keep travel partners informed and up-to-date with the company's latest developments. Trade partners will receive a weekly virtual visit from a familiar face. Stay tuned for more details.

Travel partners are invited to view a special video message from Silversea's global sales team:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B_4Pb0-jnc

Find out more information about Silversea’s reduced deposit initiative:
https://www.silversea.com/best-luxury-cruise-deals/double-bonus.html

For complete details on Silversea's Cruise with Confidence program, visit:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-trade-CWC-cruise-cancellation-and-commission-protection-guidelines.html

Atlas Ocean Voyages to Announce 2021/22 Antarctica Luxpeditions℠ Season

Luxe-AdventureSM Travel Company Expands Destinations to Help Travel Advisors GET PAID NOW

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Apr. 20, 2020 – Atlas Ocean Voyages, the luxury, all-inclusive adventure and expedition company, today announced that it will unveil its inaugural winter 2021/22 Antarctica season in early-May 2020. The Luxe-AdventureSM travel brand will launch sales of its Antarctica season ahead of schedule to provide Travel Advisors more opportunities to take advantage of the most immediate and generous program called GET PAID NOW. GET PAID NOW immediately assists Travel Advisors with up to $750 per deposited booking, and their clients receive up to $2,000 savings and more on an exhilarating Luxe-Adventure journey aboard World Navigator. World Navigator, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ first expedition ship launching in mid-2021, will embark on her maiden Antarctica LuxpeditionSM in November 2021 and bring adventurers and like-spirited travelers to the southernmost, most isolated continent for towering icebergs, waddling penguins, playful seals, breaching whales and more.

“Travel Advisors have always been an indispensable partner for cruise lines and now, they need our support more than ever,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Atlas Ocean Voyages created GET PAID NOW to support our valued Travel Advisor community as we navigate these unprecedented times. And we’re opening up our 2021/22 Antarctica season sales early, on May 4, so Travel Advisors can offer more destinations – and more choices – when discussing future travels with their clients. We will all travel again and small, safe, luxury expedition ships like World Navigator will help lead the cruise industry’s recovery.”

“We know Travel Advisors are working extra hard these days planning future dream vacations and travel experiences for their clients,” said Brandon Townsley, Vice President of Sales and Trade Partnerships for Atlas Ocean Voyages. “To support them and recognize their efforts, we want Travel Advisors to GET PAID NOW for selling a Luxe-Adventure journey to the end of the earth aboard one of World Navigator’s2021/2022 Antarctica voyages.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ GET PAID NOW recognizes Travel Advisors for their critical role in fulfilling their clients’ curiosities and dreams. GET PAID NOW is applicable for all Atlas Ocean Voyages’ itineraries, including the inaugural 2021/22 Antarctica season, and is combinable with all current Atlas Ocean Voyages promotions. For every booking with deposit, Travel Advisors will receive:

• A $750 gift card per suite NOW

• A $500 gift card per Horizon and Veranda stateroom NOW

• 15% commission

Adventurers and like-spirited travelers enjoy:

• $1,000 savings plus FREE business-class air travel per suite guest

• $500 savings plus FREE economy-class air travel per Horizon- or Veranda-stateroom guest

• Free changes to any itinerary, departing before March 31, 2022.

Travel Advisors can visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com for more information, and call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable Luxe-Adventure journey. To register as an Atlas Ocean Voyages Advisor, please visit www.atlasoceanvoyages.com/contact-travel-advisors/.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic. Safety is the basic building block of World Navigator and the ship is rated Polar Category C and Ice Class 1B and utilizes underwater forward-looking radar to confidently ply icy polar waters.

Additionally, the ship’s exclusive, alternate hydrojet propulsion system helps World Navigator quietly cruise into wildlife-rich Antarctic harbors and calderas without disturbing marine animals. Guests will be able to see Antarctic wildlife closer from World Navigator’s Water’s Edge Lookout, the lowest expedition ship’s bow observation area in the industry and the only one with heated benches for extended marine-life spotting and admiring the pristine Antarctic scenery. Atlas Ocean Voyages’ ships are also among the first to employ the latest conservation and sustainability technologies – leaving nothing behind but footprints in the snow – to help preserve the breathtaking locales and waters they ply for future generations to enjoy.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive, luxury travel brand that will be defined by simple elegance and will deliver authentic, thrilling, and once-in-a-lifetime Luxe-AdventureSM experiences in the world’s most sought-after and remote destinations. Adventurers and like-spirited travelers will find community aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ small, expedition ships and come together in welcoming and lively venues to share their day’s exploits. Guests stay in one of 98 luxe suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private balcony. All Atlas Ocean Voyages journeys include complimentary gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; L’Occitane bath amenities; Wi-Fi; a free shore excursion in select ports on every itinerary; coffee and tea service in every room; meals and snacks; and butler service in suites; as well as parkas for guests to take home and wet-landing boots for use aboard polar itineraries. For the latest about Luxe-Adventure journeys, follow @AtlasCruises on Facebook and Twitter, and @AtlasOceanVoyages on Instagram.

Viking Officially Opens Reservations for New Mississippi River Cruises

All Travelers Can Now Book Viking’s First Voyages in America’s Heartland

Los Angeles (April 16, 2020) – Viking (www.viking.com) today opened reservations to the public for its new Mississippi River cruises, which will launch in 2022. The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul. Viking’s arrival will bring modern river cruising to the Mississippi and will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river. Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River cruises comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul). As part of an exclusive preview promised by Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, past Viking guests have been able to book the new Mississippi River cruises since March 30, 2020 and some departure dates are already nearly or completely sold out. As of today, all inaugural sailings of Viking Mississippi’s 2022-2023 season are now available to the public for booking.

“At a time where many of us are at home, looking for inspiration to travel in the future, I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river. We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago—first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe. Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising—but currently there are very few options to do so on American rivers,” said Hagen when the new Mississippi River cruises were announced on March 30, 2020. “Our guests are curious travelers, and they continue to tell us that the Mississippi is the river they most want to sail with us. The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture.”

The highly anticipated announcement of Viking’s arrival on the Mississippi is the most recent milestone as the company continues to expand its fleet and destination-focused travel offerings. In January 2020 the company unveiled Viking Expeditions, with the first 378-guest purpose-built expedition ship, Viking Octantis, launching in January 2022 on voyages to Antarctica and then North America’s Great Lakes. A second expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022, sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic.

Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but that have been reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi and currently under construction in Louisiana, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region. Highlights of the new ship include:

All Outside Staterooms: Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite. All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and 24-hour room service.

Viking Suites: Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest true suites on the river, with every suite featuring two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room. Guests in Penthouse Jr. Suites (400 sq. ft.) and Terrace Suites (425 sq. ft.) receive early stateroom access; expanded double-sink bathroom; mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily; welcome champagne; and laundry, pressing and shoe shine services. Guests in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 sq. ft. to 1,024 sq. ft) also receive a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package.

Explorers’ Lounge & The Bow: Familiar to Viking’s ocean guests as one of the most popular onboard public spaces, Viking Mississippi will also feature an Explorers’ Lounge near the bow of the ship. The sun-filled, two-story Explorers’ Lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows that open to The Bow, a unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship where guests can relax and enjoy ever-changing riverside views.

River Café: From American classics to Mamsen’s® Norwegian specialties, this indoor/outdoor dining venue on the top deck will offer alternative restaurant dining in a casual al fresco setting.
Aquavit Terrace: A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests, Viking Mississippi will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space ideal for an American barbecue experience. Combined with the River Café, the Aquavit Terrace will provide the most al fresco dining options on the Mississippi.

Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool: Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while fully surrounded by their destination.
The Living Room: Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, the quiet corner of The Library, is a perfect place to discover a new book.

The Restaurant: This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily-changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck: Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.

Enrichment On Board and On Shore: Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” A focus on cultural enrichment on board Viking Mississippi means that guests will enjoy Destination Performances that represent the most iconic music of the region—as well as Guest Lecturers that shed light on the region’s art, architecture, history, culture, natural world and more. And only The Viking Way® of exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Privileged Access®, Local Life and Working World experiences, opening doors to places otherwise difficult to visit. On Viking’s Mississippi River itineraries, guests may choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities; or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.

Sustainable Features: Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make Viking Mississippi the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River.

Viking Inclusive Value: Every Mississippi River cruise fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi.

2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages

America’s Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)—From pristine farms nestled in rolling terrain to steep bluff rising from tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers a rich tapestry of beauty upon every turn of the river. This journey introduces you to the unforgettable experience of the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers. Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis & Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste regional cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.

Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)—This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history, culture and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South—jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed “dry” Memphis BBQ.

Southern Celebration (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)—On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

America’s Great River (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)—Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this incredible journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the U.S. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Enjoy Southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit “The Norwegian Valley” in La Crosse.

Etihad Airways Advises on Operational Status and Outlines Re-start Plans

• 500 special passenger, belly-hold freight and cargo flights operated worldwide

• Most extensive maintenance programme in Etihad’s history underway

• Greater support for customers affected by COVID-19 cancellations

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways has provided an update on its current and planned operations as COVID-19 travel restrictions remain in place around the world.

Subject to UAE government imposed travel restrictions being lifted on passenger travel, Etihad plans to operate a reduced network of scheduled passenger services from 1 May to 30 June, with the aim of gradually returning to a fuller schedule as and when the global situation improves.

Etihad is also continuing to operate a growing schedule of special passenger flights allowing foreign nationals in the UAE the opportunity to travel out of the country, and to carry essential belly-hold cargo such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies. To date, the airline has also repatriated almost 600 UAE nationals on return services.

Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “The term ‘unprecedented’ is currently the most used in our industry, and the most appropriate. The monumental challenges being faced by all airlines, and our customers, have been beyond measure. However, we remain cautiously optimistic and will push ahead with our plans to resume normal flying, while striving to better serve and support our customers and our employees.

“While the intention is to assume a ‘business as usual’ approach to the restart of our operations, the aviation landscape has changed, and how it will look month by month is difficult to predict. This has necessitated a fundamental shift in focus for us. However, the cumulative gains achieved by our ongoing transformation, and the unwavering support of our shareholder, has left us in a relatively strong position to withstand any instability. We will pivot on this and act with agility to seize opportunities we may not have previously considered.

“We are implementing a series of network-wide route and fleet efficiencies, while conducting an extensive brand study and trialing new service concepts in our guest experience proposition. We are also using this time to drive further internal improvements in the efficient use of automation and technology across all areas of the business, while maintaining productivity, creativity and quality.”

Network and Fleet
Currently, Etihad is using 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777-300ER passenger aircraft, with five more ready for service, to complement its operational fleet of five 777-200F freighters. These aircraft are providing scheduled and special passenger and belly-hold cargo services to several destinations worldwide.

Since 25 March, approximately 500 special passenger, freighter and cargo flights have been operated. These include passenger and belly-hold freight flights to Amsterdam, Bogota, Brussels, Dublin, Frankfurt, Jakarta, London Heathrow, Manila, Melbourne, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Seoul Incheon, Singapore, Tokyo Narita, Washington, D.C., and Zurich, with other destinations planned.

Etihad has revised the launch date of its inaugural service to Vienna from 22 May to 1 July.

Etihad Cargo is now operating up to 100 turnaround flights per week to 32 destinations on five continents. In addition to normal scheduled cargo services, special freighter and humanitarian flights have been flown to Addis Ababa, Amsterdam, Beijing, Bogota, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Chennai, Cochin, Dublin, Frankfurt, Jeddah, Johannesburg, Karachi, Khartoum, Kiev, Milan, Paris, Rome, Shanghai, Tbilisi, Wuhan, and Zagreb. More special flights will be introduced in the coming weeks.

Most extensive maintenance programme in Etihad’s history
With 80 per cent of its passenger fleet on the ground, the airline has embarked on the biggest aircraft maintenance programme in its history. Etihad Engineering, the group’s Engineering Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) division, is performing maintenance work on 96 passenger aircraft including 29 Airbus A320 and A321s, 10 Airbus A380s, 38 Boeing 787s, and 19 Boeing 777-300ERs. The programme ranges from minor maintenance tasks, such as seat repairs and updates to Inflight Entertainment Systems, to bringing forward scheduled engine changes and modifications on several aircraft, eliminating the need to withdraw them from service when flights begin operating again.

To date, this work has seen almost 19,000 seat covers laundered, and over 40 rolls of new carpets and 367 metres of leather used. Furthermore, approximately 5,000 aircraft touch points have been checked, and more than 4,000 parts fabricated through the engineering workshop.

Customer care and Loyalty
The main priority is to provide continued support to its affected customers and the airline has introduced a range of travel waivers, solutions and benefits to help ease the burden the pandemic is having. Customers who booked directly with the airline before 31 August 2020, now have greater flexibility to change their bookings or to utilise generous value-added Etihad Credit where possible. This credit will provide each customer with the value of their current unused ticket and up to US $400, plus up to 5,000 Etihad Guest Miles, for future travel. Additionally, for tickets purchased directly from Etihad within Europe or the United States, a refund is also available if requested.

Etihad Guest, the airline’s loyalty programme, is supporting members to retain and upgrade their Tier Status through a number of initiatives while they remain unable to travel during this period. In addition to receiving the monthly bonus Tier Miles, members who achieved 80 per cent of the qualifying requirements will be extended or upgraded for 12 months. Members who achieved less than 80 per cent of the qualifying requirements will be extended for three months. Etihad Guest Miles that expired in March and are due to expire in April or May, will be extended for three months for members who have been active with the programme over the last 18 months. Members can also donate their miles to charities including the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and Emirates Red Crescent, who are supporting vulnerable refugees impacted or at risk as a result of COVID-19.

Community
Etihad’s award-winning catering unit, Etihad Airport Services Catering (EAS), has been commissioned by various government entities, business organisations and community centres, to prepare and provide meals to individuals impacted by the global spread of COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, EAS has cooked and delivered over 15,000 meals a day to people self-isolating or under quarantine, frontline medical staff, humanitarian drives and for various businesses across Abu Dhabi.

EAS is also delivering amenities and providing a laundry service for Etihad employees living in temporary isolation at the airline’s eco-residences in Masdar City so they can continue to operate essential freighter and special passenger flights. These include loadmasters, cargo agents, pilots and cabin crew. Etihad crew living in company provided accommodation and requiring a meal delivery service are also being catered for free of charge.

“There have been lessons to be learned. In the early days of this pandemic, the disruption created by border closures and subsequent cancellations meant we were unable to effectively deal with the disruption our customers faced, despite our best efforts. We are tremendously pleased that we now have generous and considerate solutions that will undoubtedly deliver tangible benefits to them today, and when the time is right for them to travel again.

“The invaluable loyalty of our customers, our travel trade partners, and a phenomenal workforce which has continued to go above and beyond, despite taking temporary reductions in salary, will guarantee the security and continuity of the UAE’s great national airline,” concludes Mr. Douglas.

A video of Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, is available here: https://youtu.be/hQJvLOStz3A

A selection of high-resolution images available for download here:
https://we.tl/t-f1c1AtQaYF

Crystal@home: a Virtual Cruise Experience Keeps Travelers Connected to the Wonderful World of Crystal

Digital program brings entertainment, enrichment and discovery into travelers’ homes

MIAMI, March 31, 2020 – As the world puts a collective pause on travel, Crystal is sharing its renowned Crystal Experience with an engaging new virtual program – Crystal@Home: A Virtual Cruise Experience – created to satisfy the wanderlust of its guests while they remain at home. Utilizing varied digital and social media platforms, travelers are invited to stay connected and interact with Crystal and each other via a weekly series of live streaming events, conversations on Crystal’s social media channels, compelling stories on the Crystal Insider blog, a re-release of Crystal Storytellers, Crystal’s podcast guest lecture series, and more.

“We often say that our guests are family, and we miss our Crystal Family and we know that they miss exploring the world. Just as our guests feel at home aboard our ships, we want them to be able to enjoy their favorite elements of a Crystal vacation from their own homes,” said Carmen Roig, Crystal’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Our guests’ interests are varied and broad, and the Crystal@Home program speaks to that individuality. It also unites us over a common love of travel and the Crystal Experience during this challenging time.”

Crystal@Home showcases a weekly virtual voyage featuring the many different aspects of the Crystal Experience. Below is an example of a week’s programming. Details can be found each week at www.crystalcruises.com/crystalathome. Content and featured guests are subject to change. The flexible programming schedule is currently slated to include:

Destination of the Week: highlights select destinations visited by Crystal ships, with immersive imagery and port details to enlighten travelers and take them on a digital journey.

Sunday Cooking with Chef Jon Ashton via Facebook Live from the Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page: a weekly cooking series with longtime Crystal guest chef, who will host demos for featured dishes inspired by guest favorites aboard Crystal ships. The dishes focus on easy methods and ingredients found in most pantries and viewers can find the weekly recipe on the Crystal Insider blog and/or www.crystalcruises.com/crystalathome on the preceding Tuesday to allow time to gather ingredients. The first episode goes live on April 5 at 3 p.m. ET.

Storyteller Monday, featuring the Crystal Storytellers podcast: the first official podcast by a cruise line, which Crystal launched in 2019. The first season is available to download and listen to via all major podcast platforms and features interviews with leading world experts, celebrities, authors and other prestigious individuals who have lectured and sailed aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

Wellness Wednesday: with fitness and wellbeing tips and home workouts from Crystal’s certified fitness instructors posted on Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page that mirror those offered with the trainers and instructors in Crystal’s Fitness Centers.

Thirsty Thursday cocktail recipes, Crystal Insider blog: straight from the stylish lounges and bars aboard Crystal ships to the Crystal Insider blog, featuring recipes and tips from Crystal bartenders to inspire homebound happy hours.

Friday Nights at the Galaxy: posted on Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page at 6 p.m. EST featuring entertainment by Crystal’s onboard favorites.

Sail Away Saturday: inviting Crystal guests to share images and short videos from their Crystal voyages, utilizing the hashtag #CrystalFamily.

Crystal@Home programming will feature a revolving roster of the culinary, entertainment, wellness, destination and enrichment features above. Crystal@Home debuts with Sunday Cooking with Chef Jon Ashton this Sunday, April 5, 2020 at 3pm EST via Facebook Live on the Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page. One of Crystal’s long-time culinary partners, Chef Ashton will lead guests in making his chocolaty Springtime Mini Egg Cookie recipe, a timely treat.

With more than 30 years cruising to the far reaches of the world, Crystal has a long tradition of implementing and maintaining the highest health and safety policies at sea. Please visit this link to learn more about Crystal’s Health Protocols.

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.

Royal Caribbean Group Extends “cruise With Confidence” Policy Through September 1

MIAMI, March 30, 2020 – To address expanding global travel restrictions and provide peace of mind in guest travel planning, Royal Caribbean Group is extending its “Cruise with Confidence” cancellation policy through Sept. 1, 2020. The updated policy enhances planning flexibility by allowing cancellations up to 48 hours prior to sailing for any reason. Guests will receive a full credit for their fare, usable on any future sailing of choice in 2020 or 2021.

“Guests are reacting positively to our ‘Cruise with Confidence’ policy,” says company chairman and CEO Richard Fain, “because it enables them to make informed decisions and to better manage complicated travel plans during this unprecedented time of uncertainty.”

The extension applies to both new and existing cruise bookings. In addition to easing concerns of booked guests, Fain says the policy enhances consumer confidence to schedule new bookings, knowing last-minute travel adjustments will incur no penalty.

“We want our guests to feel they can safely keep their existing cruise bookings or schedule new sailings,” says Fain, “because this policy gives them more freedom and flexibility.”

The policy applies to all cruises with sailing dates on or before Sept. 1, 2020, and applies to the company’s global brands Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara. For individual brand policy details and for information on the Silversea policy, please visit the respective brand websites: Azamara: www.azamara.com/cruise-with-confidence, Celebrity: www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-with-confidence, Royal Caribbean: www.loyaltoyoualways.com/service/cruisewithconfidence1/ and Silversea: www.silversea.com/temporary-amendment-to-cancellation-policy.html.

MSC Cruises Extends Fleet-wide Halting of Operations Through to May 29

Geneva, Switzerland (March 30, 2020) - MSC Cruises has decided to further extend the halting of all its new cruise departures fleet-wide through to May 29, in light of the continued extraordinary circumstances the world is facing in connection with the Covid-19 virus global health emergency.

The Company previously announced the temporary halting of all its ships globally through to April 30. As governments across the globe have since further strengthened ashore public health and safety measures to protect local populations and contain the further spread of the virus, today’s decision by MSC Cruises to further extend this extraordinary measure aims to mirror and further support the effectiveness of such efforts.

MSC Cruises is working tirelessly with all guests and their travel advisors to address the impact of this necessary decision to their bookings on our ships up to May 29 and it is genuinely sorry for the inconvenience that this will cause them. By announcing this now, the Company intends to provide travel advisors and guests who are booked on affected sailings with as much time as possible to move their booking to a future cruise.

MSC Cruises is offering guests affected by this extraordinary measure the opportunity to transfer the full amount paid for their cancelled vacation plus an additional generous credit benefit to a future cruise of their choice at any point through the end of 2021.

For additional details and detailed updates, guests should contact their travel advisors or consult MSC Cruises’ local website at www.msccruises.com.