MSC Cruises and Fincantieri Celebrate Float Out of MSC Seashore

• MSC Seashore will be the second MSC Cruises new ship to come into service in 2021 as part of the Company’s continued investment plan

• New flagship to feature the latest and most advanced environmental technology

• Further enhanced design will offer more staterooms, bars, lounges and restaurants, and the highest ratio of outdoor space per guest of any ship in the Company’s fleet

Geneva, Switzerland and Trieste, Italy (August 20, 2020) — The float out of MSC Seashore took place today at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. This is a major milestone in ship building as it is the first time a new vessel touches water and sees the ship enter the next phase of construction. MSC Seashore, which will be the Company’s longest ship at 1,112 ft. and the largest and most innovative ever built in Italy, has now been moved to a wet dock until her delivery in July 2021 to allow for work on her interior.

MSC Seashore will become the third of a total of four vessels in MSC Cruises’ innovative and ground-breaking Seaside class of ships, following MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview, which launched in 2017 and 2018 respectively, and the first of two enriched Seaside Evo ships with newly designed public spaces, more staterooms and the highest ratio of outdoor space per guest of any ship in the Company’s fleet. More than 65 percent of the ship has been enhanced to make MSC Seashore a significant evolution of her sister ships.

Giuseppe Bono, CEO, Fincantieri, commented: “The float out has always been one of the most satisfying moments for those involved in the construction of a ship. It is also the occasion to further strengthen everyone’s commitment, because when the ship touches the sea, a lot of work has already been done, but much more still lies ahead. This applies even more to “MSC Seashore,” which will become the new flagship of MSC Cruises: a record-breaking ship, that focuses on innovation, technology and design, and emphasizing the Fincantieri leadership.” Bono concluded, “The uncertain situation that we are experiencing worldwide adds even more important value to this day, which bodes well not only for MSC Cruises and for our company, but for the entire cruise industry.”

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises added: “We are committed to our new builds program, which with each new class of ships sees us innovating and setting new standards in the industry. MSC Seashore will in fact be the largest and most innovative cruise vessel ever built in Italy, featuring the latest and most advanced environmental technology currently available. She will also be one of two new ships for which we will receive delivery in 2021, thus underlying our belief in the long-term growth prospects of the sector — as also demonstrated by the return to service of our first ship earlier this week as well as the investments made in our new health and safety operating protocol which is already setting a new standard for the industry.”

Very Latest Environmental Technology

The 169,500 GT ship with a maximum capacity of 5,877 guests (4,540 double occupancy), will be equipped with the latest technologies to minimize her environmental footprint.

MSC Seashore will be fitted with a state-of-the-art selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to reduce nitrogen oxide by 90 percent and a next-generation advanced wastewater treatment system (AWTS) to treat wastewater to a very high quality where the end product is of a better standard than most land-based municipal waste standards around the world.

These features will add to other effective environmental technologies deployed on MSC Seashore, and across the Company’s fleet, to minimize and continuously reduce environmental impact, and ensure even cleaner air emissions, including cutting-edge hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) that removes 98 percent of sulphur oxide from ship emissions; advanced waste management systems; ballast water treatment systems approved by the United States Coast Guard; latest-technology systems for the prevention of oil discharges from machinery spaces and various effective energy-efficiency improvements — from heat recovery systems to LED lighting. Additionally, MSC Cruises currently has on order three LNG-powered vessels, one of which is currently under construction.

MSC Seashore will also be fitted with shore-to-ship power which connects a docked cruise ship to a port’s local power grid to further reduce air emissions. This feature is broadly available across MSC Cruises’ entire fleet and has been standard across all of the Company’s new ships since 2017.

Enhanced and Enriched Design

MSC Seashore, as with the other iconic Seaside generation ships, offers a range of breath-taking and stand-out design features to enable guests to connect with the sea, such as the spectacular Bridge of Sighs, stunning panoramic aft elevators and stylish glass-floor catwalks.

Some of the new enhancements include an additional 52 ft. of extended length of the ship, 107,639 sq. ft. of additional deck space for an even greater and more spacious onboard experience, a larger MSC Yacht Club — the all-inclusive ‘ship within a ship’ premium concept — and an enhanced guest flow, with two central meeting points positioned at the middle and forward part of the ship.

MSC Seashore will offer a wider range of accommodation with more suites including 28 additional terraced suites, two suites with private whirlpools and, in the MSC Yacht Club, two new stateroom categories offering 41 Deluxe Grand Suites and two Owner’s Suites with whirlpools.

Families will be able to benefit from modular connected staterooms that can connect to accommodate between six and 10 people, plus bigger and more spacious staterooms for guests needing greater accessibility, with 75 in total available.

Two brand new restaurants will be introduced and five specialty restaurants will be newly located to allow for waterfront seating on the ship’s stunning boardwalk to give guests a greater sea view as they dine al fresco.

MSC Seashore will also have a new double-decker aft lounge, a larger casino and 20 distinct specialty bars, cafes and lounges. The ship will feature a new aft pool design, an enlarged indoor pool and a new interactive waterpark, which will provide thrills and spills for guests of all ages. Clubs for young children and teenagers have been separated from a larger kids’ zone.

The ship will feature the latest customer-centric technology with MSC for Me available across multiple digital channels, offering guests a stress-free way to plan and book the things that matter to them. Guests can access information across a range of digital touchpoints including a useful app, interactive in-stateroom TV, interactive screens around the ship as well as ZOE, the virtual personal cruise assistant, available in every stateroom.

In summer 2021, all three Seaside class ships will be deployed together in the Western Mediterranean. These ships have been designed for the warmer weather making them perfect for the summer season for guests who want to enjoy the sunshine and stunning ocean views in this popular cruise region.

MSC Seashore will offer the popular ‘Six Pearls’ itinerary calling the Italian cities of Genoa, Pompeii, Naples, and Messina; Valletta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain; and Marseille, France. MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview will also operate high-demand 7-night cruises in the West Mediterranean homeporting in Genoa.

Following her an inaugural season in the Mediterranean, MSC Seashore will then head to the U.S. and arrive in Miami in November 2021, sailing 7-night Caribbean itineraries, including stops at MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

For more information on MSC Seashore visit here.

Tropical Bliss Awaits as Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji Debuts the Ultimate “Isolate in Paradise” Resort Buyout

Travelers Enjoy Full Reign of 7,000-Acre Island That Has Offered Social Distancing for 30 Years

FIJI ISLANDS – The quintessential resort takeover has become the latest resort trend, and Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji is bringing new meaning to the term “Buy Out” by offering an exclusive retreat in a tropical paradise.

As if the sheer beauty were not enough to entice international travelers, add to the mix a choice of 11 white sandy beaches, five-star dining, world-class diving , Fijian culture, a myriad of water sports, and a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon caves, famous for the movie “Blue Lagoon” starring Actress Brook Shields, and an unsurpassed vacation is “exclusively yours.”

The resort, located on a 7,000-acre island with only a handful of small Fijian villagers as your neighbors and only 30 minutes by Private air transfer and inaccessible to other travelers from Nadi International Airport, is now offering an exclusive stay: the ultimate “Isolate in Paradise” Buyout for 1 to 38 guests. For more information, visit: https://yasawa.com/island-buyout/

Whether celebrating a milestone birthday, special anniversary or seeking to recharge and relax with family and friends, look no further than the idyllic Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji, an unsurpassed sanctuary for sun and fun. The price tag for paradise is set at approximately USD$14,000/night with a minimum three-night stay. Rates are exclusive of international and domestic airfare to the island/return, and Fiji Government tax. The complete buyout is valid for travel through March 31, 2022.

Tucked away in the lush Yasawa group of Islands off the coast of main Island of Viti Levu in the Yasawa group of islands, this secluded haven boasts 18 authentically thatched luxury bungalows hidden among luscious tropical foliage, and only steps from a pristine stretch of silky beachfront. Located on one of the most remote and unspoiled islands in Fiji, it is a tropical oasis that attracts couples, singles, families and groups from near and far.

Guests revel in an all inclusive stay that highlights the following:

• Arrival flower lei, chilled towel, fresh fruit & welcome coconut drink upon arrival

• Accommodation in 18 Beachfront Bures

• All gourmet meals and snacks for up to 38 guests

• Non-alcoholic beverages

• Complimentary beach cocktail party featuring house red, white and sparkling wine, Fiji rum punch

• Beachside seafood dinner

• All resort activities including snorkeling, sea kayaking, SUP, sailing, tennis, nature walks and more

• Private picnics on your choice of 11 white sand beaches

• Resort excursions- boat snorkel trips, visits to the world- famous Blue Lagoon Caves

• A traditional Fijian Meke performance and Lovo Night and choir performance

• Nightly entertainment and cultural activities

Spa and alcohol beverages packages are available at an additional charge.

ABOUT YASAWA ISLAND RESORT & SPA, FIJI

From the distinctive contemporary Fijian style bungalows fashioned with palm thatched roofs, plantation shutters, an expansive sun deck, a private beach hut on the edge of the sands and personal hammock, the luxurious one island resort evokes “life as it is meant to be,” an experience that rejuvenates the senses and stirs the soul. The one island resort boasts 18 luxury bungalows hidden among luscious tropical greenery, each only a few steps from a pristine white-sand beach.

The all-inclusive resort boasts contemporary cuisine serving meals a day with choice of dining at the new al fresco main dining complex with 180-degree view of the ocean, beachside, at the horizon pool or in the privacy of your very own beach hut. The chef places an emphasis on “fresh” whether it is from the garden or ocean. The poolside Manasa’s Bar named after a long-time resort employee, serves signature cocktails from dawn to dusk.

For the ultimate in relaxation, the full service Baravi Spa, offers ocean view massages and is well known for its Baravi Rhythm, four handed synchronized massage where therapists perform this signature favorite in tandem with the waves of the ocean. Hot rock therapies use black volcanic pebbles to reflect the fiery rift that created the island.

On land and at sea, a multitude of complimentary resort activities provide something for everyone. Guests enjoy swimming in the crystal waters of the famous Sawa-I-Lau Caves, snorkeling among vivid corals and tropical fish, sea kayaking, boating on a catamaran, stand up paddle boarding and windsurfing. Back on shore, they enjoy tennis, volleyball hiking and rugby matches.

For the adventurous there is deep sea fishing and PADI scuba diving available for an additional charge.

A favorite pastime of many guests is a complimentary picnic on one of 11 white sandy beaches, a visit to Bukama Village where travelers can meet the chief, partake in a kava ceremony (the ceremonial drink of Fiji), hear the school choir sing, partake in a lovo feast, witness a meke performance (the ceremonial dance of Fiji) and attend a Sunday church service.

Celebrated for its pristine location, Yasawa Island Resort & Spa has offered guests from around the globe unique, authentic and enriching travel experiences.

Upon arrival in Nadi Fiji International Airport, the Resort is a 30-minute private flight from Nadi International Airport and is reached via the resort's private airstrip.

For more information about Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji, visit www.yasawa.com.

Crystal Clean+ 2.0 Protocols Introduced for Crystal Expedition Cruises and Crystal Yacht Cruises

Initial health and safety protocols tailored for Crystal Endeavor and Crystal Esprit

MIAMI, August 17, 2020 – Following the announcement of the Crystal Clean+ safety and health protocols for its Ocean and River fleets, Crystal has unveiled public health measures for its upcoming expedition ship, Crystal Endeavor and for its yacht, Crystal Esprit. Crystal Clean+ is considered the 2.0 version of Crystal’s already stringent standards of health and safety procedures, enhanced to further safeguard guests’ and crews’ wellbeing and offer travelers peace of mind when they return to cruising the world again. The set of protocols was developed according to the most up-to-date scientific data and expert recommendations available and will be continually evaluated and revised as new information becomes available.

The Crystal Clean+ protocols are predominantly consistent across the entire Crystal fleet, with some specific nuances to accommodate the differences of the River ships and Crystal Endeavor and Crystal Esprit. Protocols will be similar to those set for the company’s Ocean ships Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, with slight modifications to accommodate each ship’s unique facilities.

“The boutique adventures and intimate atmosphere found aboard Crystal Esprit and Crystal Endeavor will continue catering to travelers’ preferences for active experiences, delivered with Crystal’s signature personalized service,” said Mark Spillane, director of sales and marketing for Crystal Yacht Cruises and Crystal Expedition Cruises. “Crystal Clean+ serves to ensure that these experiences are healthy and safe for all guests and crew, so that guests can embark on the adventures they’ve been dreaming of with the peace of mind that Crystal holds their wellbeing as the top priority.”

The ships will set sail with reduced capacity and all social distancing guidelines will be followed, while the company’s policy regarding masks and face coverings will remain nimble to abide by evolving recommendations and local requirements. Crystal Endeavor’s and Crystal Esprit’s cleaning and disinfection protocols will follow enhanced frequency in guest suites and all social spaces and ship tenders (zodiacs), utilizing medical-grade products listed on the EPA List N, which are approved for use against COVID-19, norovirus and other infectious diseases. Open Seating dining remains for both ships with social distance considerations and self-service dining options will be eliminated.

Crystal is committed to being in full compliance with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC, for Crystal Symphony, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Endeavor), EU Healthy Gateways (for Crystal Esprit) and Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), global health measures and any local regulations set by European cities and states (for Crystal River Cruises) and, as such, will update these protocols according to their recommendations as they become available or are adjusted. The Crystal Clean+ program will be implemented across all Crystal brand experiences – Crystal Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Cruises and Crystal Expedition Cruises – when they resume sailing in 2021. Crystal has voluntarily extended its suspension of global voyages until December 31, 2020.

All Crystal ships across the fleet including Ocean, River, Yacht and Expedition offer nearly double the space per person than ships of a similar size, which is among the highest space ratios in the industry and their social spaciousness will be further augmented through the Crystal Clean+ program’s evolving public health and safety measures. Further, Crystal Endeavor and Crystal’s River ships are all-suite and all-balcony with most staterooms on its two Ocean ships featuring private verandas for fresh airflow.

The safety of guests and crew members is Crystal’s number one priority and the fleet will resume service only when the company’s expert team and global health and government authorities indicate that it is safe to do so.

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 24 years, including, in 2017 and 2020, Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises; 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.

MSC CRUISES WELCOMES BACK FIRST GUESTS ON MSC GRANDIOSA

MSC Cruises’ flagship departed yesterday from Genoa, Italy for its first 7-night cruise in the West Mediterranean

MSC Cruises’ own and comprehensive health and safety protocol implemented for all guests and crew

Geneva, Switzerland (August 17, 2020) — MSC Grandiosa yesterday became the first ship from the MSC Cruises’ fleet to welcome guests back and the first ship to implement the Company’s health and safety protocol. The first guests began embarking MSC Cruises’ flagship in the port of Genoa, Italy yesterday morning, arriving at the cruise terminal according to their allocated time slots and followed the new universal screening procedures according to the Company’s own health and safety protocol, which includes a temperature check, medical review of a health questionnaire and an antigen COVID-19 swab test for every guest prior to boarding. After completing these steps and having received the results of the test while in the terminal, guests that were fit to travel then embarked the ship according to the new health and safety procedures, which includes sanitation of both hand and hold luggage.

All guests were given a complimentary MSC for Me wristband, which provides guests with contactless options while on board such as opening their staterooms or making payments. These wristbands will also help to facilitate proximity and contact tracing, if needed. Additionally, over the past several weeks, all crew members have gone through similarly stringent health screening measures, which included 3 COVID-19 tests in various phases as well as a period of isolation before commencing their duties. Each crew member will then be regularly tested and their health monitored.

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO commented, “It is a real pleasure for me to be here and sail on board the first of our ships to return to service and to be able to welcome back our guests. Our main goal during these last months has been to put in place the right measures that will protect the health and safety of our guests, crew and the communities we visit. But at the same time, we have worked to ensure that we are able to provide our guests with a cruise holiday that they can enjoy and still experience all of the elements that they know and love from entertainment and activities on board through to protected ashore visits.”

Following the embarkation of the new guests today in Civitavecchia, more guests will also embark in the ports of Naples and Palermo. The ship will then call at Valetta in Malta before returning to Genoa on Sunday. Along the ship’s itinerary, guests will be able to go ashore to enjoy the different ports of call, but only as part of an MSC Cruises shore excursion as an added level of protection, so that their experience ashore follows the same high standards of health and safety as on board. Today, some of the guests will visit Rome — taking in all the attractions of the “Eternal City” — while traveling on sanitized transfers with social distancing in place, accompanied by tour guides and drivers who are also adhering to strict health and safety measures.

For this initial phase of the restart of operations, the two MSC Cruises’ ships operating in the Mediterranean — the second being MSC Magnifica in the East Mediterranean — for the current summer season will initially only welcome guests who are residents in Schengen countries[2]. In the U.S., MSC Cruises will only restart operations when the time is right, following approval by the CDC and other relevant authorities across the region in observance of their requirements and guidelines.

For more information about MSC Grandiosa as well as the new health and safety measures in place visit here.

About MSC Grandiosa

The Company’s new flagship, MSC Grandiosa launched in November 2019 and is the first Meraviglia-plus generation ship, offering a richness of guest experiences. This includes an iconic Mediterranean-style promenade with LED sky screen, a wide choice of international dining options including five specialty restaurants and an enhanced MSC Yacht Club. MSC Grandiosa is the second MSC Cruises’ ship to feature ZOE, the world’s first virtual cruise personal assistant and new updates to the innovative MSC for Me digital innovation program. Cirque du Soleil at Sea will be temporarily suspended on board MSC Grandiosa for the short-term, due to the challenging travel restrictions for the international artists who perform in the shows. Live music performances will be offered in the stunning Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship, including a theatrically staged concert, The Beatles – A Musical Celebration and Who’s Who A 60’s Musical Celebration.

The Key Pillars of the Health and Safety Protocol

• Universal health screening of guests prior to embarkation that comprises three comprehensive steps: a temperature check, a health questionnaire and a COVID-19 swab test. Depending on the screening results and according to the guest’s medical or travel history, a secondary health screening or testing will take place. Any guest who tests positive, displays symptoms or a temperature will be denied boarding. Following guidelines from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, guests traveling from countries categorized as high risk will be required to take a molecular RT-PCR test, to be done within 72 hours prior to joining the ship. All crew members will be tested for COVID-19 prior to embarkation as well as regularly during their contract.

• Elevated sanitation and cleaning measures supported by the introduction of new cleaning methods and the use of hospital-grade disinfectant products.

• Social distancing will be enabled through the reduction of the overall capacity of guests on board, allowing for more space for guests, approx. 10 m² (about 108 sq. ft.) per person based on 70% overall capacity. Venue capacity will be reduced, activities will be modified to allow for smaller groups and guests should pre-book services and activities to manage guest numbers. When social distancing is not possible, guests will be asked to wear a face mask, for instance in the elevators. The face masks will be provided daily to guests in their staterooms and will be available around the ship.

• Enhanced medical facilities and services with highly qualified staff trained, the necessary equipment to test, evaluate and treat suspected COVID-19 patients and the availability of free treatment at the onboard Medical Center for any guest with symptoms. Dedicated isolation staterooms will be available to enable isolation of any suspected cases and close contacts.

• Ongoing health monitoring will be conducted throughout the cruise. Guests and crew will have their temperature checked daily either when they return from ashore or at dedicated stations around the ship to monitor the health status of every guest and crew member. During this initial phase of operations, as a further enhanced measure of protection and to avoid risks to the health of guests and their fellow cruisers, guests will only go ashore as part of an organized MSC Cruises’ excursion. This means that MSC Cruises can protect their health while ashore with excursions that will be delivered with the same high standards of health and safety on board. MSC Cruises will ensure that transfers are properly sanitized and that there is adequate space. Tour guides and drivers will also undergo health screening and will wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

• A contingency response plan will be activated if a suspected case is identified, in close cooperation with the national health authorities. The suspected case and close contacts will follow isolation measures and may be disembarked according to local and national regulations.

COVID Cruise? Not on UnCruise Adventures. Small Boat Company Bursts the Bubble of Presumption About Transmission OnBoard Cruises

Leading Small Boat Company is Resolute to Find a Better Way to Test After Canceling the Season

SEATTLE, WA. AUGUST 14th, 2020. – The small boat adventure company, UnCruise Adventures, confirmed today that the majority of last week’s quarantined guests were cleared and released over the weekend. The original COVID positive guest returned home just a few days later. The company implemented a swift contingency plan and strict quarantine last week upon the news of a positive test onboard. The adventure brand immediately canceled its four subsequent sailings in Alaska for the summer. Revised news now shows all tests received back for guests and crew are negative and there was no transmission onboard. However, the season will not be recovered.

Is there a better way? UnCruise Adventures has provided some validation that there are safe sailing protocol options and continues to advocate for better testing to help save the travel industry. The company is now focused on rebooting their upcoming seasons and creating safe outdoor bubbles for travelers.

“Strict planning paid off,” says Captain Dan Blanchard, UnCruise Adventures Owner, and CEO. “We were able to act quickly, but that doesn’t mean this event has not been painful to our company and guests. Our policies held up and may be a footprint for future sailings and the industry.”

UnCruise Adventures worked in tandem with local and state officials which was an asset to the company and guests. Most guests were not required to quarantine for the expected 14 days but began departing for home on August 8th. The company has received support from the local community and the industry at large, with some criticism on being the first to return to sail this season.

The adventure brand remains resolute in its focus to educate the industry on what small boat travel is and the safe routes to follow that will help lead the industry. “We've been lobbying Congress for rapid testing that would change the game. We can all do better and are asking national leaders to work with us.” Blanchard states.

Here’s the timeline:

• July 28th Identified guest takes a test prior to departure from home city.

• August 1st UnCruise Adventures returns to sail and all guests with a gap of more than the 72-hour requirement were retested at the Juneau airport.

• August 4th a guest onboard received communication from the State of Alaska of a positive C-19 test retaken at the Juneau airport.

• August 4th contact tracing was immediately implemented by the state.

• August 4th the identified guest and four traveling companions were retested onboard the vessel by trained staff.

• August 5th the 60-person passenger vessel, the Wilderness Adventurer returned to Juneau. It was operating at a 60% occupancy cap.

• August 5th all guests were securely quarantined at a local hotel in Juneau with costs covered by UnCruise Adventures. The crew quarantined onboard the vessel.

• August 6th all guests and crew were tested.

• August 7th UnCruise Adventures received negatives results back on all tests to date.

• August 7th 30 of the 36 guests were greenlighted by the State of Alaska to be released.

• August 8th guests began flying home.

UnCruise Adventures understands that accessible rapid COVID testing is needed across industries for businesses and tourism to return. More studies are showing that small boat sanitization is high and, in some instances, pose less of a risk of viruses than an average location that individuals visit in their local neighborhoods.

“Small businesses like ours have taken a considerable hit during COVID, and this was a big one.” Blanchard states. “We have taken proactive steps and understand our responsibility to our guests, crew, communities, and the industry. Safety remains our focus and we will continue to accelerate protocol standards.”

Earlier this year UnCruise Adventures spearheaded the small boat coalition with several other industry associates. The purpose was to educate the public and government officials on the nature of small boats and differences needed in regulation. Events like these leave small-business owners affected when full support is needed to re-ignite economies. The need for a united industry voice continues. Information updates will be made available on the company’s website and via the communications department. Find more at www.uncruise.com

CruiseReport President Talks About State Of Cruise Industry

Revised and Enriched: Silversea Unveils an Innovative New Collection of Expedition Voyages for 2021/2022

Silversea’s revised collection of 157 expedition voyages has been expertly designed to bring even greater innovation to the cruise line’s expedition offering.

(Monaco – August 11, 2020) Silversea Cruises today affirms its destination leadership by unveiling a revised collection of 157 new expedition voyages. Departing from January 2021 to July 2022, the revised voyages have been designed by the cruise line’s destination experts to preserve and enhance the characteristically diverse array of experiences on offer to guests, pushing boundaries in ultra-luxury expedition travel.

The enhanced expedition offering includes pioneering itineraries in the Galapagos aboard new ship Silver Origin, the unprecedented Deep Antarctica expedition and the first-ever ultra-luxury fly-cruise to Antarctica, a 51-port Arctic grand voyage, and the world’s first-ever expedition world cruise, among other immersive experiences.

Enjoying 12 maiden calls while journeying aboard Silversea’s four expedition ships, guests will travel deeper through the following expedition experiences as part of the new voyage collection:

• BRAND NEW ITINERARIES IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ABOARD SILVER ORIGIN
  To further enhance guests’ destination experience in the Galapagos Islands, 68 new voyages aboard Silver Origin will incorporate five maiden calls, including the beautiful island of Santa Fe. The iconic islands of Fernandina and Isabela now feature on both itineraries, and each will include improved programs ashore. Guests will have more opportunities to admire the iconic wildlife species of the archipelago, including the Galapagos Penguin, green sea turtles, endemic iguanas, and many remarkable bird species. Silver Origin will build on Silversea’s multi-award-winning cruise experience in this unique region, forming meaningful connections between travelers and the destination. Aboard Silver Origin, guests will enjoy the highest expert guide-to-guest ratio (1:10) and the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratio (1:12.5) in the region.

• JOURNEYING TO EXTREME LATITUDES ON THE DEEP ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION
  Silversea’s longest-ever voyage to Antarctica, travelers will embark on the cruise line’s first-ever voyage dedicated to attempting to cross the Antarctic Polar Circle on a 20-day exploration of the White Continent, departing January 27th, 2022. Part of an enriched 35-voyage Antarctica season, the Deep Antarctica expedition will take guests to unprecedented latitudes in the history of Silversea, with Silver Explorer proposing to reach an impressive 69°S. Guests aboard Silver Explorer will venture to Marguerite Bay and potentially even as far south as the Bellingshausen Sea, a spectacular and seldom visit area of the Antarctic Peninsula. Following Silver Explorer’s dry dock period, guests will enjoy the highest expert-to-guest and Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the region with 14 Zodiacs and a dedicated team of 14 world-class expedition staff.

• THE FIRST EXPEDITION WORLD CRUISE IN HISTORY: THE UNCHARTED WORLD TOUR
  Now setting sail on January 25th, 2022, Silversea’s 167-day Uncharted World Tour will be the first Expedition World Cruise in history. The pioneering voyage will take adventurous travelers across 21 oceans and seas, calling in 107 remarkable destinations in 20 countries. Enriching the experience for guests, 70 leading experts and 20 guest speakers will join the voyage, sharing their insight as Silver Cloud travels to some of the most remote locations on earth.

• ANTARCTICA BRIDGE: THE WORLD’S FIRST ULTRA-LUXURY FLY-CRUISE TO ANTARCTICA
  Silversea’s guests will enjoy even greater diversity in the cruise line’s Antarctica offering, with the launch of Antarctica Bridge, the world’s first ultra-luxury fly-cruise to the White Continent. With the option of an all-inclusive nine-night fly-cruise option aboard Silver Explorer, travelers now have greater choice in the duration of their Antarctic expedition, as well as the destinations they visit, with immersive experiences in the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, the Ross Sea, and the Subantarctic Islands included in the cruise line’s enriched Antarctica collection.

• SILVERSEA’S FIRST-EVER ARCTIC GRAND VOYAGE
  Departing 16 July 2021, Silver Cloud will embark on Silversea’s first Arctic Grand Voyage, unlocking unforgettable experiences for guests in 51 destinations across seven countries. Journeying on through some of the world’s remotest waters over 63 days, while enjoying exclusive events and an impressive line-up of guest speakers, Silversea’s guests will discover many once-in-a-lifetime experiences on the all-inclusive Arctic Grand Voyage. As part of an enriched Arctic season, guests will also retrace the route taken by famous explorers of yesteryear during an intrepid Northwest Passage crossing, as well as embarking upon incredible new sailings in Svalbard aboard Silver Cloud.

Also included in Silversea’s new collection of expedition voyages for 2021/2022 are 10 voyages in Northern Europe, with five sailings departing from various ports in the British Isles and two voyages to the Norwegian Fjords; a wide selection of in-depth expeditions in Australia’s Kimberley Region, as well as Southeast Asia and Melanesia; seven exceptional voyages to the South Pacific Islands; a variety of options in South America, including two spectacular itineraries to the Chilean Fjords; and the chance to discover Alaska and the American West Coast; and more.

“Our industry-leading destination experts have worked hard to enhance our expedition offering for 2021 and 2022, providing our guests with an unprecedented choice of immersive experiences, from the Arctic to Antarctica and the most incredible places in between,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea Cruises’ SVP of Expeditions, Turnaround Operations and Destination Management. “Highlighted by the launch of our new ship Silver Origin, which will be the most elegant ship to welcome guests in the Galapagos Islands, our new itineraries push boundaries and underpin our leadership in the ultra-luxury and expedition travel segments.”

Silversea’s guests will embark upon these enriched voyages aboard the cruise line’s fleet of ultra-luxury expedition ships—two of which will see further enhancements in 2021. Silver Explorer will offer an even more immersive and personalized expedition experience with an increased number of Zodiacs and expedition members on-board. Silver Wind, meanwhile, will be converted into an ice-class ship; her maiden voyages in polar waters will strengthen Silversea’s expedition activity with even greater variety.

Find out more information on Silversea’s revised expedition itineraries for 2021/2022:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-expedition-itineraries-2021-2022.html

Read related content on Silversea’s travel blog, Discover:
https://discover.silversea.com/

About Silversea

Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises—in which Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio serves as Chairman—is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Muse – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of four new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

Crystal Announces Crystal Clean+ 2.0 Protocols for its River Fleet

Measures to help safeguard guests and crew along Europe’s rivers

MIAMI, August 10, 2020 – Crystal announced today the expansion of its Crystal Clean+ safety and health protocols to the sister ships of Crystal River Cruises, recently named the World’s Best River Cruise Line by the readers of Travel + Leisure. The Crystal River Cruises’ initial set of Crystal Clean+ protocols, considered the 2.0 version of Crystal’s already stringent health and safety policies, were developed with the latest data from health experts to meet the unique challenges posed by COVID-19, and will be continually evaluated and adjusted as new information becomes available. Crystal is committed to being in full compliance with all local regulations set by the European cities and states the ships visit. The protocols comprise enhanced cleaning procedures; social distancing and facial covering requirements; health monitoring for guests and crew members; new streamlined embarkation procedures; shoreside partner collaborations and more.

“We are looking forward with great anticipation to welcoming our guests back aboard and are working to ensure their wellness and peace of mind when that day comes,” said Walter Littlejohn, senior vice president and managing director of Crystal River Cruises. “Crystal Clean+ is an extension of the exceptional standards to which Crystal has always adhered, augmented with the best scientific data and expert guidance currently available.”

The Crystal Clean+ protocols for the Crystal River Cruises’ fleet includes but is not limited to:

Pre-Boarding & Embarkation

Additional precautionary steps taken in the weeks, days and hours prior to boarding will help streamline and safeguard the embarkation process for all guests and crew.

• Guests will check in online and complete a health questionnaire

• Guests will receive an assigned arrival time to minimize congestion

• Guests will undergo temperature checks before boarding the ship

• Guests will complete a second health questionnaire prior to boarding the ship

• Guests who show signs of illness may be denied boarding

Capacity Control & Social Distancing

Crystal ships are designed to offer nearly double the space per guest of similar-sized ships. New protocols will expand this social spaciousness even further.

• Reduced capacity in in all social spaces

• Social distancing outside of one’s travel party will be required

Disinfection Procedures

In guest suites and highly frequented shared spaces, Crystal Clean+ procedures will include augmented cleaning and other measures.

• Prior to guest arrival, staterooms and suites will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with medical-grade disinfectants

• Products used are included on the EPA List-N and approved for use against COVID-19, norovirus and other infectious diseases

• Electrostatic foggers will be used as an additional tool for disinfection on embarkation day

• Guest corridors will be disinfected regularly

• Timely housekeeping for suite turnover; bedsheets and linens professionally cleaned and disinfected at high temperatures

• Onboard social spaces will be disinfected with increased frequency

• Touchpoints such as handrails, elevator buttons, table-tops, door handles etc., will be disinfected with increased frequency during peak hours

• All recreational equipment will be disinfected frequently

Responsive Mask Policy

Crystal’s mask policy will remain nimble. The company will constantly be reassessing mask policies in light of evolving best practices recommended by epidemiologists as well as compliance with the policies of local governments.

• Crystal will provide masks to its guests and crew

• Masks will be required in venues and instances where proper distancing is not possible

• Crystal will comply with all destination health authorities, which may require masks ashore

Food & Beverage

The Crystal dining experience will be carefully presented to eliminate person-to-person contact while maintaining the delicious and elegant experiences guests enjoy.

• Open Seating Dining will continue with social distancing considerations

• Guest seating will ensure ample spacing

• Contact-free dining service will be implemented in all onboard venues

• Self-service options will be eliminated

• In-room dining choices will be available 24/7

• Stringent procurement guidelines will be enforced

Shoreside Partners & Excursions

Crystal is working closely with all shoreside partners and tour operators to ensure that Crystal Clean+ protocols extend to guests’ experience ashore.

• Tour coaches, which are exclusive to Crystal River Cruises’ guests only, will be disinfected to meet Crystal Clean+ standards

• Excursion group sizes will be reduced to allow for proper social distancing

• Crystal will monitor port regulations and adjust requirements and schedules as needed to maintain guests’ health and well-being

• Crystal recommends that guests who choose to book tours independently consider that these operators may fall short of disinfection standards Crystal requires of their partners

• Nearly all Crystal River Cruises Destination Discoveries are inclusive, arranged by Crystal’s team in coordination with shoreside partners vetted and proven to adhere to Crystal standards

• Crystal will only visit safe, open ports of call; this may cause changes to the itinerary, which will be communicated to guests

Shoreside Medical Resources

Crystal Cruises River ships are always close to shore and therefore are treated like land-side hotels. The company will facilitate care for guests with local hospitals and doctors and will follow all local healthcare guidelines and practices.

Crew member Standards & Practices

Crystal Clean+ will ensure that crew members remain healthy and at their best to deliver the very best experiences for guests.

• Crew to be tested for COVID-19 prior to boarding

• Crew will undergo frequent temperature checks and regular health monitoring

• Crew will wear face shields, masks and other necessary PPE when interacting with guests

• Crew are prohibited from personal contact with guests such as handshaking and hugging

• Crew transfer between ships will be minimized

Air Filtration & Ventilation

Crystal ships are designed with a 100% fresh air supply to all suites and public spaces. There is no air recirculation built into the design.

• Crystal River ships will feature HEPA filters, which remove 99.95% of airborne pathogens
  All air filters and cooling coils are frequently thoroughly checked and maintained to ensure the highest standard of air quality possible

• Crystal Clean+ will be implemented aboard Crystal’s River ships when they return to cruising the Danube, Rhine, Main and Moselle rivers in 2021, as Crystal has paused operations of its fleet through the end of 2020.

Crystal’s new-build river vessels are Europe’s most spacious river ships, accommodating just 106 guests with an intentional focus on maximizing personal and public spaces throughout their 135-meter hulls (a size typically designed to accommodate twice the number of guests). The ships comprise Europe’s newest river cruise fleet and are the industry’s first and only all-balcony, all-suite, butler-serviced vessels in Europe, with every category of accommodation positioned above the water line. All suites feature Panoramic Balcony-Windows™ and walk-in closets and dual vanity bathrooms are featured in most categories.

The safety of guests and crew members is Crystal’s number one priority and the fleet will resume service only when the company’s expert team and global health and government authorities indicate that it is safe to do so.

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 24 years, including, in 2017 and 2020, Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises; 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.

MSC Cruises Returns to Service in the Mediterranean Offering Full-experience Cruising This Summer

Flagship MSC Grandiosa to welcome back guests in the West Mediterranean from August 16 and MSC Magnifica in the East Mediterranean from August 29

Return to operations supported by introduction of comprehensive health and safety protocol approved by relevant national authorities along the two ships’ itineraries

MSC Cruises to go beyond guidelines with enhanced measures including universal testing for all guests and crew as well as safe ashore visits at each port

Geneva, Switzerland (August 8, 2020) – MSC Cruises announced today that flagship MSC Grandiosa and MSC Magnifica will resume operations in the Mediterranean starting from August 16 and 29, 2020 respectively, offering guests full-experience cruise vacations with the opportunity to discover five different destinations during a seven-night cruise. The two ships will be the first to implement a new comprehensive health and safety protocol that has been approved by the relevant national authorities from the countries that the ships will call along their East and West Mediterranean itineraries this summer.

Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman commented, “During the pause in our operations we focused on developing a comprehensive operating protocol that builds upon already stringent health and safety measures that have long been in place on board our ships. We have worked closely with the relevant EU-level, national health and other authorities from the countries that MSC Grandiosa and MSC Magnifica will call along their Mediterranean itineraries to develop a comprehensive set of procedures designed to protect the health and safety of all passengers on board our ships as well as ashore to ensure that local communities feel comfortable welcoming our guests.”

Pierfrancesco Vago continued, “The new procedures include universal COVID-19 testing for all guests and crew prior to embarkation, protected ashore visits at each destination only with an MSC Cruises’ excursion as an added level of protection for our guests and the introduction of a COVID Protection Plan for further peace of mind for our guests. With all of these measures in place, we aim to offer our guests the safest possible vacation.”

MSC Grandiosa, the Company’s flagship, will offer seven-night cruises in the Western Mediterranean calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Civitavecchia/Rome, Naples, Palermo and Valetta. MSC Magnifica will offer seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean departing from the Italian ports of Bari and Trieste and calling at the Greek ports of Corfu, Katakolon and Piraeus.

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO commented, “We are very pleased to be able to start welcoming back guests for full-experience cruise vacations this summer on board two of our most popular ships — including our flagship MSC Grandiosa — and in the Mediterranean, the very region where our Company’s roots are and we have long been market leaders.”

MSC Cruises’ new operating protocol has been designed to protect the health and safety of guests and crew as well as the local communities that the Company’s ships visit. For this reason, it meets and goes beyond guidelines provided by key international and regional regulatory and technical bodies, as well as regulations set forth by the governments in the countries in which MSC Cruises’ ships operate. Additionally, RINA, the independent maritime certification corporation, has verified that the protocol meets the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) Guidance, which incorporates additional health standards including those from the EU Healthy Gateways Joint Action. MSC Cruises has worked to encompass every aspect of the guest’s journey from the moment of booking, embarkation and life on board through to disembarkation and the return home, while preserving the uniqueness of the guest experience.

For this initial phase of the restart of operations, the two MSC Cruises’ ships operating in the Mediterranean for the current summer season will initially only welcome guests who are residents in Schengen countries[1]. Additionally, their itineraries have been designed according to the accessibility of the ports, reducing — where possible — the need for guests to use public transport or flights, and have been planned in conjunction with the authorities.

MSC Cruises has today cancelled all other cruises in the Mediterranean from August 16 through to and including October 31, 2020. In addition, MSC Cruises announced the cancellation of all U.S. cruise departures through to and including October 31, 2020, in line with the announcement that CLIA members will voluntarily extend the suspension of cruise operations to this date. CLIA stated that “This proactive action further demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to public health and willingness to voluntarily suspend operations in the interest of public health and safety, as has occurred twice prior.” MSC Cruises will only restart operations in the U.S. when the time is right, following approval by the CDC and other relevant authorities across the region in observance of their requirements and guidelines.

Finally, MSC Cruises also cancelled the Far East cruises from September 10 through to and including October 26.

Guests booked through MSC Cruises USA or affiliated US-based travel advisors on Mediterranean sailings between August 16 and October 31, Caribbean sailings between October 1 and October 31 and impacted Far East cruises through October 26, will receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit of the original cruise fare to be used on a sailing on or before December 31, 2021. Guests who prefer to receive a refund instead of a Future Cruise Credit can visit MSCCruises.com for more information on how to complete their request with an easy to use online form.

Beyond the summer itineraries announced today, MSC Cruises is following the evolution of the pandemic and a gradual introduction of other ships coming into service is possible during this same summer period.

Today’s announcement follows the confirmation of full details of MSC Cruises’ programs between November this year and November 2021, covering the Fall and Winter 2020/2021 and the Spring, Summer and Fall 2021 seasons. Ships will offer guests itineraries across all the regions traditionally served by MSC Cruises in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, the Gulf, South Africa, South America and Asia.

Regarding MSC Cruises’ itineraries beyond the current summer season, Gianni Onorato concluded: “We will closely monitor updates and new guidelines at a global, European and national level and will continuously review and update our health and safety protocol to make sure that its measures reflect the most updated medical know-how and technology as it becomes available as well as reflect in it the different phases in the evolution and spread of the virus and as social restrictions change over time. To this end, with time, and in line with the development of the health situation ashore, we are hoping to be able to relax certain measures while continuing to ensure that the health and safety of everyone on board our ships remains our utmost priority. At the same time, we will always make sure that our guests can enjoy and relax while on vacation on board one of MSC Cruises ships, the way they always have – now including this summer.”

About MSC Grandiosa

The Company’s new flagship, MSC Grandiosa, launched in November 2019. She is the first Meraviglia-plus generation ship and offers a richness of guest experiences, an iconic Mediterranean-style promenade with LED sky screen, a wide choice of international dining options including five specialty restaurants and an enhanced MSC Yacht Club. MSC Grandiosa is the second MSC Cruises’ ship to feature ZOE, the world’s first virtual cruise personal assistant and new updates to the innovative MSC for Me digital innovation program. Cirque du Soleil at Sea will be temporarily suspended on board MSC Grandiosa for the short-term, due to the challenging travel restrictions for the international artists who perform in the shows. Live music performances will be offered in the stunning Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship, including a theatrically staged concert - The Beatles – A Musical Celebration and Who’s Who A 60’s Musical Celebration.

About MSC Magnifica

MSC Magnifica will enable guests to travel in true comfort and style. The ship boasts masterful design and relaxed refinement, with all of the features that distinguish any MSC Cruises ship, including one of the highest ratios of balcony staterooms in the fleet, extended dining areas with four restaurants and 11 bars, modern and comfortable accommodations as well as a wide range of entertainment and leisure activities. Key features include a swimming pool with magrodome, a spectacular theater, full-scale casino, panoramic discotheque, 4D cinema and much more. On board, guests feel the attention to detail in service and design that is a trademark for MSC Cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line Joins Industrywide Pause in U.S. Through October 31

MIAMI, Aug. 5, 2020 – Consistent with the decision announced today by the members of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to voluntarily extend the pause in U.S. cruise embarkations until Oct. 31, 2020, Carnival Cruise Line has informed guests and travel advisors that we have cancelled all cruises scheduled to embark between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31.

Guests are being offered an enhanced value package of a future cruise credit and onboard credit, or a full refund.

If conditions in the U.S. change and short and modified sailings are possible, the industry may consider an earlier restart, and we would consider that as well. In the meantime, we will continue to work with public health and government officials to finalize enhanced health and sanitation protocols and procedures that will guide our eventual return to service.

We thank our guests for their continued patience and support as we work through these difficult decisions. When the time is right, our terrific onboard team will be waiting to welcome our guests back to give them the great vacation they deserve.