Small Boat Adventure Company Takes Their Onboard Giftshops Virtual for Improved Guest Experience

UnCruise Adventures Launches New Online Boutique to Engage More Travelers at Home 

SEATTLE, WA. November 23rd, 2020. – The leading small boat adventure company, UnCruise Adventures, announces a new online shopping experience to engage more travelers at home. The just launched boutique offers custom gifts and gear previously only available on their exclusive adventure itineraries. The giftshop collections include an ever-changing, fresh mix of outdoor and casual gear that their guests crave. The company states that additional items will be coming for the holiday season. Shoppers can browse limited items at uncruise-gear.com along with early access Black Friday deals available to both U.S. and overseas consumers. The company is dedicating 10% of online gift sales to a relief grant for their foreign-based crew and vendors who have been affected by the pandemic and loss of tourism. 

“We are always listening and learning from our guests,” states company owner and CEO, Dan Blanchard. “We are on a mission to relentlessly improve our guest experience and constantly innovate. This is a simple way to do that at a time when our guests can’t come to us.” 

The evolving travel experience has created new opportunities for brands to engage with their guests and adapt to the pandemic. UnCruise Adventures understands the actions they take now will prepare them for a strong future. This includes solid health safety standards, company restructuring, traveler surveys and, strong outreach to guests and future adventurers. As technology comes front and center for the travel industry and more virtual access is expected, UnCruise Adventures provides more of what their guests expect. 

According to the brand, guests have been asking for options to continue their connection with an online experience. Keepsakes and souvenirs have long been at the heart of travel and this is a perfect complement to allow guests to bring their adventure memories home. 

“This is a time to rethink everything. We are not content with just waiting out the pandemic. We are evolving and providing more access points for our guests to stay in touch and stay inspired for future travel. We are excited to offer this new shopping experience.” shares Blanchard.

The site debuts collections for everyone, including ladies, men’s, kids, footwear, accessories, and pets. Visit uncruise-gear.com to shop online or request customization on individual items. Shoppers can share their new finds online with #DreamBigShopSmall  

More at www.uncruise.com 

Princess Cruises Extends Pause of Global Ship Operations Into 2021

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (November 20, 2020) – In response to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "Framework for Conditional Sailing Order" pertaining to resumption of U.S. cruise operations, Princess Cruises is extending its pause in global operations to allow time for the estimated preparation needed for completing required activities prior to sailing and taking into consideration the temporary seven-day cap on itineraries that call at a U.S. port. The cruise operations impacted include the following:

• All cruises sailing through March 31, 2021

• All cruises longer than seven days sailing in and out of United States ports through November 1, 2021

Additionally, due to the uncertainty about when international travel restrictions might be lifted, Princess Cruises is extending its pause in operations for cruises departing in and out of Japan through June 25, 2021.

"We are focused on preparing our ships to meet the CDC health and safety requirements for our eventual return to service," said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. "We also appreciate the continued support we have received from our guests, partners and travel advisors, reinforcing for all of us why we do what we do."

Guests currently booked on these cancelled voyages will have the option to receive a refundable Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equivalent to 100% of the cruise fare paid plus an additional non-refundable bonus FCC equal to 25% of the cruise fare.

To receive the above FCCs, no action is required by the guest or their travel advisor. Alternatively, guests can request a full refund for all monies paid on their booking through this online form. Requests must be received by December 31, 2020 or guests will be registered for the Future Cruise Credit option.

Princess will protect travel advisor commissions on bookings for cancelled cruises that were paid in full in recognition of the critical role they play in the cruise line’s business and success.

The most current information and instructions for booked guests affected by these cancellations, and more information on FCCs and refunds, can be found online at Information on Impacted & Cancelled Cruises.

Celebrity Cruises Marks Journey to Beyond

Tobias King, Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series Project Manager, and Sébastien Le Boulluec, Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s Edge Series Project Manager, hold the ceremonial “good fortune” coin for Celebrity Beyond as the ship’s keel is laid. Celebrity Beyond is the highly-anticipated third ship in the brand’s award-winning Edge Series.

Coin Ceremony Celebrates Celebrity Beyond, Third Gem in Line’s Industry-Transforming Edge Series

ST. NAZAIRE, FRANCE – Nov. 19, 2020 – Today, Celebrity Cruises held the shipbuilding industry’s traditional coin ceremony for Celebrity Beyond, the next ship in the line’s award-winning Edge Series, signifying an important milestone in the innovative ship’s construction.

An honored tradition, the coin ceremony is meant to bring the ship good fortune and coincided with the laying of a keel block for Celebrity Beyond. Celebrity, a brand known for its efforts to close the gender gap in the maritime industry, fittingly chose a coin from the American Innovation dollar series honoring Annie Jump Cannon, the daughter of an American shipbuilder, a suffragist and a pioneering astronomer credited with the development of contemporary stellar classification.

“In a year that has continuously tested the strength of our industry, it is encouraging that we move forward with building Celebrity Beyond,” explained Richard Fain, Chairman of the Royal Caribbean Group, parent company of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Beyond signals that as we prepare to return to service, we do so confidently and with great optimism about the future. ”

“This is a proud and exciting moment because Celebrity Beyond will continue to elevate an already incredibly innovative and transformative Series of ships for our brand – and the industry,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “I thank all of my amazing colleagues and our incredible partners at the shipyard for moving us one step closer to bringing Celebrity Beyond to life. We have some special surprises planned with Celebrity Beyond and I really can’t wait to share her with the world.”

“This event is a new milestone in the success story we have been sharing for decades with Royal Caribbean Group and Celebrity Cruises,” stated Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

“Together, once again, we will be striving for excellence, to add a third gem to the prestigious Celebrity Edge Series.”

Tobias King, Project Manager for Celebrity Cruises, and Sébastien Le Boulluec, Project Manager Edge Series at Chantiers de l’Atlantique had the honor of placing the ceremonial coin.

Celebrity Beyond joins two beautiful Edge Series ships: the highly-lauded Celebrity Edge, named to TIME Magazine’s 2019 World’s Greatest Places list for its cutting-edge design and numerous innovations like the cantilevered Magic Carpet; and Celebrity Apex, described as a “perfection doubled” sister-ship with new culinary, wellness and entertainment offerings taking the onboard experience to new heights.

Celebrity Beyond is anticipated to be delivered in Spring 2022.

About Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' iconic "X" is the mark of a fleet of 14 award-winning ships redefining luxury cruise travel with cool, contemporary design and accommodations; dining, spa and entertainment experiences for modern tastes; and culturally rich and diverse destination experiences, all complemented by warm, personalized service. Celebrity has pioneered many industry firsts at sea including: the first use of solar panels on a cruise ship; the first to eliminate use of plastic water bottles; the first American female Captain of a cruise ship; the first-ever all-female bridge and officer team sailing; the first West African woman to work on the bridge of a cruise ship; and one of the first legal same-sex weddings performed at sea. Driven by wanderlust and a passion for opening the world, Celebrity journeys to all seven continents, visiting nearly 300 destinations in more than 70 countries. Celebrity is one of six cruise brands operated by global cruise vacation company Royal Caribbean Group. (NYSE: RCL).

About Chantiers de l’Atlantique
Chantiers de l’Atlantique is one of the market leaders worldwide for highly complex ships and offshore installations, thanks to its state-of-the-art industrial facilities and renowned expertise in designing, integrating, testing and delivering turnkey maritime solutions.

Included Shore Excursions and Roundtrip Air: Silversea Cruises Becomes More All-inclusive Than Ever

Included with every voyage in Silversea's new collection of 2022/2023 itineraries, travelers will enjoy complimentary shore excursions in every port and included roundtrip air*.

(Monaco -- November 19, 2020) Silversea Cruises is set to become more all-inclusive than ever, with the upcoming launch of its new 2022/2023 itineraries. For the first time in Silversea’s history, travelers will enjoy at least one complimentary shore excursion, from a range of experiences in every port of call, included with all voyages in the new itinerary collection—across the line’s entire fleet of 10 ultra-luxury ships. Enhancing Silversea’s all-inclusive offering further still—which is already among the most comprehensive at sea—all cruise fares will include roundtrip air and transfers, providing unprecedented value and convenience for guests.

“We are enhancing our already comprehensive all-inclusive offering for the convenience of our guests, while leveraging on our destination leadership to take travelers deeper into over 900 of the world’s most amazing destinations on included shore excursions,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO. "Our expansive new collection of itineraries for 2022 and 2023, which will be the largest itinerary launch in Silversea’s history, features inspired voyages that have been carefully curated by our destination experts. With the inclusion of roundtrip air and transfers, we are further enriching our all-inclusive offering, which is among the most broad-ranging in the ultra-luxury cruise sector."

Setting sail between March 2022 and May 2023, Silversea’s new collection of voyages represents the cruise line’s largest-ever itinerary release, with almost 12% more itineraries compared to the previous launch. The new collection includes 315 voyages across all seven continents, calling in 669 destinations in 114 countries, with 61 maiden calls.

Travelers booked on these voyages will be able to reserve their included shore excursions—as well as bespoke ‘Silversea Selected’ shore excursions (available for an additional charge)—from 180 days before sailing by accessing my.silversea.com. The cruise line’s Venetian Society members will enjoy an additional 30 days to make their selection, reserving their chosen experiences from as early as 210 days ahead of sailing.

The inclusion of roundtrip air and transfers on all voyages will enhance the offering for guests. Business class upgrades are also included in selected destinations and on selected voyages, such as the cruise line’s World Cruises and Grand Voyages. Special savings in the form of ‘non-use air credit’ is offered to travelers who wish to make their own travel arrangements or to those traveling from excluded regions. Depending on Silversea’s air program flight schedule, guests may also enjoy one or two hotel nights, or the use of a dayroom, included in the cruise fare.

In addition to some of the most spacious suites at sea (90% of which offer verandas), guests traveling aboard Silversea’s ships enjoy personalized service provided by nearly one crew member for every guest; onboard entertainment; as well as the following inclusions:

Moreover, as part of the most comprehensible all-inclusive expedition offering at sea, Silversea’s guests will also enjoy the following inclusions on expedition voyages:

• In-country flights on selected itineraries

• Highly-qualified Expedition Team, comprising experts in their field.

• Guided Zodiac, land and sea tours, as well as shore-side activities.

• Enrichment lectures by our Expedition Team

• Complimentary expedition parka in cold water regions

• Complimentary use of wetsuits and snorkeling equipment on selected voyages

• Complimentary backpack and water bottle

As Silversea’s cruise fares will henceforth reflect the inclusion of shore excursions and roundtrip air, our travel partners will be eligible for a higher overall commission per booking.

Part of an exclusive pre-sale, Silversea’s new 2022/2023 itineraries will go on sale to the cruise line’s Venetian Society members from December 1. General sales will open on December 10.

Travel partners are invited to attend live webinars on November 30/December 1 to learn about the highlights of Silversea’s new 2022/2023 itinerary collection. Sign up here:

USA/CANADA: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7723843096617812492
LATAM/CARIBBEAN: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3619515723894132747

Discover more about Silversea's all-inclusive cruises at: www.silversea.com

Terms and Conditions: *The Air Program is not available in some countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America. In these countries we offer an Air Credit, instead, to be applied to the booking. The Shore Excursions Program is subjected to Shore Excursions availability in each port and guests’ first choice may or may not be available. The first Shore Excursion booked in a single day/port, among the Shore Excursions bookable and available within the Program, will be considered included, while additional ones will come at full fare (SELECTED Shore Excursions). This Program does not apply on the embarking and disembarking ports. Due to evolving health protocols, some imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect current onboard and destination offerings, or the public health standards and government requirements that modify or limit these offerings. Onboard and destination experiences, features, itineraries, and guest conduct rules vary by ship and destination and are subject to change without notice.

About Silversea

Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises 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, Silver Muse and Silver Moon – 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, the Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of three new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Dawn and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

Royal Caribbean Amps Up the Thrills With 2022 Caribbean Cruises

New Itineraries and Evening Stays Bring More Ways to Explore from Florida, Texas and New York

MIAMI, Nov. 18, 2020 – Royal Caribbean International is turning up the island vibes with a lineup of Caribbean adventures slated for summer 2022. With three of the world’s boldest Oasis Class ships to choose from – Symphony, Harmony and Oasis of the Seas – sailing from Florida and the Northeast, plus favorites Liberty, Explorer and amplified Mariner of the Seas, guests will make long-lasting memories both on board and on land.

Royal Caribbean’s 2022 summer Caribbean cruises open for sale today for itineraries 5 nights or longer. The cruise line will announce its remaining Caribbean summer 2022 deployment early next year.

Oasis Class Adventure

Two of the world’s largest cruise ships, Symphony and Harmony of the Seas will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean 7-night itineraries from Miami and Port Canaveral, respectively. New for 2022, Symphony will double the number of Eastern Caribbean sailings and tout evening stays in Puerto Rico on select cruises throughout the summer. Harmony will visit island gems such as St. Thomas, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Falmouth, Jamaica, as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private destination in The Bahamas. With all sailings calling to Perfect Day at CocoCay, vacationers can check off adventures from their bucket list with an adrenaline rush in Thrill Waterpark, some friendly competition at the action-packed South Beach, a quintessential beach day on Chill Island and Coco Beach Club, or a little bit of each.

Amplified sister ship Oasis will return to the Big Apple, offering 7-night cruise vacations to Florida and The Bahamas from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. With almost every sailing visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, adventure-seekers can enjoy both thrill and chill in the white-sand beaches and clear blue waters of The Bahamas. While on board, guests can experience mouthwatering dining options, including Royal Caribbean’s Portside BBQ – a first for the cruise line, following Oasis’ bow-to-stern transformation in December 2019 – as well as chart-topping hotspots like Spotlight Karaoke and Music Hall.

Guests on board Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships, the world’s largest cruise ships and the cruise line’s original game-changer, are met with endless thrills, ways to chill and everything in between. With world-class dining, electrifying nightlife and much more, each ship offers experiences to wow every kind of traveler.

Unforgettable Favorites

Marking a first for Royal Caribbean, Mariner will introduce sailings from Florida to Bermuda. These 8-night sailings will include two days in Kings Wharf, before journeying on to The Bahamas for a late-night stay in Nassau and full day of memory-making at Perfect Day at CocoCay. The amped-up Mariner of the Seas will also offer 8-night cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida to the far-flung islands of Aruba, Curacao and St. Croix, and idyllic settings closer to home, such as the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Following a winter season in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Explorer returns to the cruise capital of the world, Miami, to sail alternating 8- and 6-night itineraries. Southern Caribbean escapes will bring guests to explore the ABC Islands – Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao – with more time to explore island life after the sun goes down in Oranjestad, Aruba and Willemstad, Curacao on every 8-night sailing. Explorer’s 6-night adventures are primed for memory making while visiting the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Liberty will continue to homeport in Galveston, Texas and offer 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries to the beautiful beaches of Belize City, Belize and Cozumel, Mexico.

About Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel featuring the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionize vacations with itineraries to more than 270 destinations in 72 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 16 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers can call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

Windstar Cruises Unveils Transformed Star Breeze – First of Three Star Plus Class Yachts

First look at a new Classic Suite aboard Star Breeze

The much-anticipated renaissance of the all-suite yacht is now complete

SEATTLE, WA, November 18, 2020 – If a cruise ship launches without any passengers on board, does it make a splash?

Seattle-based Windstar Cruises hopes so – because the small ship cruise line is delighted to share some good news in 2020 and digitally showcase the renaissance of Star Breeze, an all-suite yacht that was cut in half and lengthened with the addition of 50 new suites, two innovative restaurants, a reimagined spa/fitness center, enlarged pool and deck, new bathrooms in all suites and new efficient engines.

Capacity increased from 212 guests to 312 – still small enough for visiting small ports and hidden harbors around the world – although the ship won’t be welcoming passengers until 2021.

While Windstar has temporarily suspended operations, renovation work on its three Star Plus Class ships moved forward, with Star Breeze as the first to emerge from a $250 million Star Plus Initiative that also includes sister ships Star Pride and Star Legend. The two ships will join the fleet later in 2021, following their completed Star Plus transformations carried out by Fincantieri at its shipyard in Palermo (Italy). Fincantieri is regarded as the leader in major cruise ship renovations, particularly for this kind of highly complex undertaking.

“We’re delighted to take delivery of Star Breeze, the first ship completed as part of the Star Plus Initiative at Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo,” said Chris Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises. “These three Star Plus Class yachts offer more amenities we know our guests want, while still being small enough to travel the narrow waterways and visit the small ports we’re known for.”

Prelog emphasized the additional work and investment into this yacht and others for health and safety features as part of the new Beyond Ordinary Care program. Star Breeze is outfitted with new HEPA filters and UV-C light technology, and the rest of the fleet will be outfitted with these updates and more before returning to service.

Catch a first look at Star Breeze here.

Here’s what’s new on board:

New Dining (Outdoors in Particular)

One of the most anticipated developments in Star Breeze’s renaissance is the addition of two new restaurants: one an outdoor barbecue concept with grilling guru Steven Raichlen and the other a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, one of the youngest chefs to be recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Star Grill by Steven Raichlen embraces the al fresco setting and ocean views with drinks like Strawberry Pimm’s Cups and Raspberry/Melon Slushies. From the smoker, Tea Smoke Duck and Coffee-Crusted Prime Brisket with Chipotle Molasses Barbecue Sauce will impress guests, along with grilled selections such as Shrimp on Sugarcane with Mount Gay Rum Sauce. Vegetarians won’t be ignored, including choices like Planked Camembert with Pepper Jelly, Pecans and Grilled Bread, Mexican Grilled Corn, Falafel Burgers, and Grilled Eggplant Salad.

On Deck 6 at Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, guests can expect a curated collection of Spanish staples, all with a modern twist. Menu items range from Galicia’s Pulpo Gallego to Valencia’s Fideos Mar y Montaña, with decadent desserts including Madrid’s famous Churros y Chocolate. A chef's counter overlooking an open kitchen lets diners observe the cooking process, and a Spanish-centric wine and cocktail list completes the experience. The restaurant seats just 38 patrons at maximum capacity.

At Veranda restaurant, where guests are served breakfast and lunch daily, there’s a new coffee station, as well as more outdoor and ocean-view seating. Veranda transforms at night into another concept called Candles, Windstar’s reservation-only steakhouse. Dinner is served outdoors, under the stars and candlelight (thus the name), unless weather prohibits. Candles will debut a new menu on Star Breeze with a jaw-dropping 40-ounce Beef Bone-In Ribeye Tomahawk Steak, as well as a 30-ounce Bone-In Porterhouse Steak. Both are Linz Heritage Certified Black Angus, carved tableside, and require a small upcharge. (Note that dining across Windstar’s fleet is included in the cruise fare, with no additional upcharges beyond these individual items.)

A True Spa & Fitness Center

Star Breeze now has a completely re-imagined and enlarged spa and fitness center to invigorate active guests. The workout equipment is made by Technogym, an Italian company known for its cutting-edge designs. The spa menu features regional spa treatments and destination-themed therapies as part of the World Spa by Windstar program. Massage therapists and beauticians will be using products from Elemis, a luxurious British body and skincare line.

More Deck Space / Outdoor Amenities

The yacht now has a large pool and hot tub on an elevated top deck, offering outstanding views, along with expanded outdoor deck areas for relaxing and sun-bathing.

New Suites

There are 50 new suites featuring new suite categories and open floor plan configurations, as well as two brand-new, larger Owner’s Suites. These combine suites to create up to a three-bedroom, two-balcony suite

– the first of its kind in the cruise industry. Every suite on board will feature all-new bathrooms.

Important, But Less Flashy for Guests…

There are new, state-of-the-art, efficient engines and diesel generators, plus a new elevator mid-ship, making access to all decks easy from anywhere on board. There’s a comfortable tender loading area located mid-ship and two new 90-passenger tenders that will ferry guests to port when yachts are at anchor. In addition, staff and crew areas and accommodations were expanded and upgraded.

COVID and Cruising

Recently the brand announced a new Beyond Ordinary Care program, which is a multi-layered strategy with key hospital-grade elements: HEPA filters and UV-C ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to filter and disinfect the air, plus electrostatic sprayers to sanitize all surfaces throughout the yacht. The company worked with the Anschutz Medical Center department of epidemiology to design a multi-layered approach that takes the best practices in science, technology and behavior together, and believes this comprehensive program to provide a healthy environment on board will also give travelers (both avid Windstar guests and new ones) confidence to book when paired with a Travel Assurance Booking Policy that gives flexibility to make plans and update them without fees if things change.

For updated information, reservations, and itineraries, visit www.windstarcruises.com.

Thank You Sale from Azamara Club Cruises

• Deal & Details: For the first-time ever Azamara will launch its ‘Thank You Sale.’ Here, guests can enjoy up to $1,000 in onboard credit, plus a complimentary two-category stateroom upgrade on select sailings when they book between November 19 – December 5, 2020 — a combination between the 2020 ‘Double Upgrade’ offer and past summer promotions. With a treasure trove of applicable sailings that take place from March 20, 2021 – September 29, 2021, experiences include traveling back to the days of the Byzantine Empire in Rhodes, exploring Dublin’s Celtic history, and meandering through Norway’s Fjords.

• How to book? Landing page here will go live on 11/19.

• Azamara: Azamara is an upmarket cruise line and the leader in Destination Immersion, with three mid-sized ships sailing to all seven continents of the world. The boutique-style ships allow them to reach marquee ports around the world and dock in smaller less-visited hidden gems.

• COVID-19 Assurances & Measures: When reserving, guests can ignite their wanderlust and book worry free with Azamara’s signature Cruise with Confidence program, which provides assurance when planning a future cruise with the flexibility of canceling up to 48 hours before sailing. When Azamara recommences sailing, there will be implementation of expert advice from parent company Royal Caribbean’s Healthy Sail Panel to ensure guests and crew fee comfortable, healthy, and safe.
  

Pierre Thomas joins Swan Hellenic as Director of Expedition Operations

Cultural expedition cruise pioneers consolidate top team with seasoned expedition leader

The highly-experienced guide and lecturer Pierre Thomas, an expedition leader worldwide for over 26 years, including with top names in the cruise industry, has now found his home at Swan Hellenic, the company announced today, Wednesday 18 November 2020.

Pierre’s experience is vast and has seen him gain qualifications that range from naturalist guide and dive guide to expedition leader. He has led expeditions on the water, under the water and overland by motorbike, and lectures in 5 languages on topics as varied as tropical fish, African history, the Panama Canal and Central American Post-World War II politics.

Extensive expedition cruise experience with Linblad, Metropolitan Touring, Noble Caledonia and Silversea Cruises has equipped Pierre with strategic customer insight, hands-on expertise and an international network of expert colleagues. All of which will prove invaluable in taking Swan Hellenic to create a cultural expedition experience both on and off-board that truly befits its pioneering heritage.

With a strong management team of top names in the high-end cruise industry and an order book that is now running at three custom-designed expedition cruise ships, Swan Hellenic is clearly on track to create an entirely new high-end cruise experience, beginning 2021 and already taking eager bookings.

“We are excited to welcome Pierre on board. With his tremendous experience and strong relationships with international experts in their fields, nobody could be better placed to ensure our guests enjoy a unique cultural expedition experience, both on and off-board, that truly befits Swan Hellenic’s pioneering heritage,” explained Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito.

Pierre Thomas commented: “I’m delighted to join the dynamic team bringing the Swan Hellenic vision of cultural expedition cruising to life across a tremendous new five-star fleet. I look forward to contributing to the creation of a truly unique discovery experience – geographical, scientific, natural, cultural and artistic.”

About Swan Hellenic

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in September 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company had pioneered in the 1950s. Building on its British roots, the new company has a global cultural cruising outlook dedicated to providing guests with the opportunity to ‘see what others don’t’.

Two new 5-star polar PC5 ice-class expedition cruise ships arriving in November 2021 and April 2022 will each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the majority with large balconies. A larger P6 ice-class vessel accommodating 192 guests in 96 cabins and suites in the same distinctive comfort and style as its sister ships will be arriving year-end 2022.

Dedicated to guests with a passion for adventure and cultural exploration, the company’s meticulously planned itineraries explore the wild landscapes, wildlife, peoples and unique cultures of the world’s less travelled regions.

Its ships feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces and dedicated expedition facilities. The crew includes an expedition team comprising expert guides, speakers and lecturers, and numbering 120 and 140 respectively almost equals the number of guests, reflecting the high levels of attentive personal service provided.

For more information about Swan Hellenic, please visit www.swanhellenic.com

MSC Cruises USA Offers Up to $1,400 in Value on 2021 Cruise Vacations for Black Friday & Cyber Monday Promotion

• A family of four can benefit from up to $600 off best cruise fares, up to $200 onboard credit, and up to $600 extra savings with Kids Sail Free

• Travelers planning their 2021 cruise vacation now, can choose from 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean or Northern Europe, and enjoy complete flexibility to change plans with Total CruiseFlex

• Healthcare heroes save up to an additional 50% with special thank you discount

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (November 18, 2020) — During the hottest shopping season of the year, travelers are looking to satisfy their need for a long-awaited getaway, and cruisers are waiting for their moment to be back at sea. With 2021 vacation planning full steam ahead, MSC Cruises USA is kicking off Black Friday and Cyber Monday with up to $1,400 in value for bookings made from November 25 – December 1, 2020 for sailings between March 2021 and November 2021.

With up to $600 off MSC Cruises’ best cruise fares, up to $200 onboard credit and up to $600 in additional savings with Kids Sail Free, a family of four* can score great value as they plan their 2021 cruise vacation, and choose from 3-, 4- and 7-night sailings either in their back yard or across the globe with itineraries available in The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean or Northern Europe.

In addition, Total CruiseFlex allows cruisers to book with the Black Friday & Cyber Monday offer now, and have confidence knowing that up to 48 hours before their departure they can change their plans and move their booked cruise to any ship and any sail date departing before December 31, 2021.

“There is tremendous pent-up demand as cruisers are looking to solidify their vacation plans for 2021. With the Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer, we are able to provide our guests the opportunity to start planning their next much-needed getaway now at exceptional savings and without worry, since they have the ultimate flexibility to change their plans,” said Rubén Rodriguez, President of MSC Cruises USA. “Whether planning a cruise from the U.S. or other destinations around the world, guests sailing aboard MSC Cruises’ young, modern fleet will find the unique cruise experience they know and love. Our guests have plenty of room to spread out and relax, whether on board one of our beautiful ships, or outdoors in port at a destination, including on our private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.”

2021 CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS AROUND THE WORLD

The Bahamas & Caribbean

MSC Cruises is gearing up to offer guests even more choice of sun-soaked escapes in The Bahamas and the Caribbean with a new range of shorter and week-long sailings from Miami as well as a brand-new homeport with cruises from Orlando (Port Canaveral). MSC Meraviglia and MSC Armonia will continue sailing year-round from Miami, while MSC Seaside will sail from Orlando until March 2021 and then be replaced by MSC Divina through November 2021.

A highlight of cruises from the U.S. is Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ new private island destination in The Bahamas. Exclusive to MSC Cruises’ guests, the private island — located just 65 miles from Miami — is surrounded by 64 square miles of marine reserve, offering guests a unique opportunity to discover local marine life, soak up the spirit of Bahamian culture and reconnect with themselves and each other as they enjoy the outdoors. All ships sailing from the U.S. to The Bahamas and Caribbean will call at the island, allowing guests a chance to relax beside crystal blue waters on over two miles of white-sand beaches spread across eight distinct areas. With ships frequently docked at the island from early morning into the evening — and in many instances overnight — guests can spend a full day experiencing the island, including a wide selection of ocean discovery activities like snorkeling adventures, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking.

Mediterranean & Northern Europe

Whether returning to the region or visiting for the first time, the Mediterranean and Northern Europe remain some of the world’s most in-demand cruising destinations. And, MSC Cruises has enriched its 2021 cruises in these regions with new itineraries, destinations and the cruise line’s newest ships.

After her debut in Summer 2021, MSC Seashore will spend her first season sailing in the Mediterranean. With an iconic design ideal for warmer climates, MSC Seashore invites guests to experience the outdoors like never before with stunning sea and city views.

Highlights of 2021 historic Northern Europe cruises will include a dose of ultramodern with the introduction of the new MSC Virtuosa, the second Meraviglia Plus ship coming into service in Spring 2021. She will spend her first season offering 7- to 14-night cruises alternating between the fjords and Baltic capitals, with embarkation available in Kiel, Germany or Copenhagen, Denmark. For Summer 2021, MSC Splendida will also offer 7-night and 14-night back to back itineraries to the fjords and Baltic capitals as well as 10- and 11-night cruises to the Baltic or North Cape.

MSC Magnifica will also homeport in Southampton, UK, with a 12-night cruise to the Canary islands available in May; 7-night itineraries through Norway during Summer; 14 nights in the Mediterranean in August or the Baltic in September; and 7-night sailings through the “Northern Pearls” of Hamburg, Germany; Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Zeebrugge, Belgium and Le Havre, France in October.

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO SAVE

Up to 50% Discount for Healthcare Heroes

Healthcare professionals are continuing to work tirelessly to fight the global pandemic. To thank them for their dedication, MSC Cruises is offering up to 50 percent off cruise fares for all front-line and back-office healthcare professionals, so that when they are ready, they can enjoy a much-deserved vacation with their loved ones. Plus, this discount can be combined with the Black Friday & Cyber Monday promotion, meaning healthcare heroes can save up to 50 percent on top of the discounted Black Friday & Cyber Monday cruise fare. This special thank you offer is available for bookings made by healthcare professionals before April 30, 2021.

MSC Voyagers Club 5% + 5% Exclusive Promotion

In addition to the Black Friday & Cyber Monday promotion, members of the MSC Voyagers Club loyalty program benefit even further with an exclusive promotion that allows them to get an additional 5 percent discount on top of the 5 percent discount they automatically receive on all cruise bookings. Plus, they can receive up to $100 onboard credit per member, based on their membership level. MSC Voyagers Club members can learn more at: https://www.msccruisesusa.com/manage-booking/msc-voyagers-club/msc-club-pax-type-55

HEALTH AND SAFETY

The health and safety of guests, crew and the communities MSC Cruises visits is the Company’s top priority. MSC Cruises new, comprehensive health and safety protocol covers all aspects of the cruise experience and, in its current form, currently applies to MSC Grandiosa, which returned to service this August in the Mediterranean. MSC Cruises continues to review and update its protocol to align with developments of the health situation ashore, always prioritizing the well-being of its guests and crew. As an example, the cruise line recently announced newly activated measures for MSC Grandiosa under the existing comprehensive protocol.

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 on MSC Cruises Cruise with Confidence program, including new health and safety measures as well as Total CruiseFlex visit: https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise-with-confidence

For more details on MSC Cruises’ Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale, guests can visit here starting November 25 or contact their preferred travel advisor.

Carnival Cruise Line Cancels Additional Cruises as It Works to Meet CDC Requirements to Resume Operations in 2021

MIAMI, Nov. 18, 2020 – As it continues to build and implement its plan to meet the requirements of the Framework for Resuming Cruise Ship Operations Order issued on Oct. 30 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Carnival Cruise Line notified guests and travel agents that it has cancelled additional cruises for the first part of 2021, including:

• All embarkations from U.S. homeports from Jan. 1-31.

• Additionally, Baltimore, Charleston, Jacksonville, Long Beach, Mobile, New Orleans and San Diego embarkations through Feb. 28.

• Embarkations on Carnival Legend out of Tampa through March 26.

Carnival is in the process of building a gradual, phased in approach to resume guest operations, which will focus initially on Miami and Port Canaveral, to be followed by Galveston. Consistent with CDC protocols, Carnival Horizon arrives in Miami this week, and Carnival Breeze will be the next ship back to the U.S. In total, 16 Carnival ships are currently following the CDC process for an eventual resumption of guest service in the U.S. in 2021, including Carnival Conquest, Dream, Ecstasy, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Liberty, Miracle, Panorama, Pride, Sensation, Sunrise, Sunshine and Vista. Mardi Gras, which is under construction in Finland, will also enter service in 2021.

With this announcement Carnival’s operations are paused in the U.S. through Jan. 31, 2021. In addition, Carnival had previously cancelled certain other itineraries on four ships (Magic, Paradise, Valor, and Victory/Radiance) that are scheduled for required dry docks in the first half of 2021, with the plan to return them to operations after maintenance work and upgrades are completed. Carnival previously cancelled operations in Australia through March 2, 2021.

“We are committed to meeting the CDC requirements and keeping our guests and business partners informed of our progress,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “The entire Carnival team appreciates the great support of our guests, travel advisors and business partners, and local officials in our homeports and destinations.”