SILVERSEA CRUISES PROVIDES INSIGHT ON EMERGING TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2022/2023

(Miami, FL -- January 27, 2021) While 2020 posed unique challenges to those with a passion for traveling, the encouraging response to Silversea Cruises’ new 2022-2023 itineraries has affirmed the willingness of guests to discover the world once more. The leading ultra-luxury cruise line launched 315 new voyages for 2022-2023 in December—the largest itinerary deployment in Silversea’s history—and has since seen renewed interest from travelers, both loyal- and new-to-Silversea. Based on guest interest and predictions from Silversea’s destination experts, the cruise line has identified popular travel trends for 2022-2023, highlighting those destinations that are attracting travelers with the recommencement of sailing. Popular sailing regions include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and Australia’s Kimberley region.

"We are excited to see strong interest in a diverse range of destinations, and are especially delighted to see encouraging indications from the members of our Venetian Society loyalty club that they are eager to travel again," says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Marketing Officer. "These fascinating places, both near and far, shine as beacons of light, inspiring travelers to start planning for their next adventure. With our largest-ever collection of itineraries including, for the first time, shore excursions and round-trip air on all voyages, we are pleased to offer the most convenient and value-rich options for travelers to discover the authentic beauty of the world like never before."

Listed below are those experiences from the 2022-2023 itinerary collection that are trending among Silversea guests, accompanied by highlight itineraries—as identified by the cruise line’s destination experts.

1. Cultural immersion into the old-world charm of the iconic Mediterranean

Recent booking data affirms that Silversea cruisers worldwide are attracted to the Mediterranean. The region offers small ports and iconic cities, as well as world-renowned food and UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. Travelers will stroll the streets of Pompeii, or explore magnificent cathedrals, from Michelangelo's basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican City to Gaudí's surreal Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Guests will also marvel at the blue domes and whitewashed houses of Santorini, explore the antiquities of Ephesus, and succumb to the golden beaches and delicious cuisine of the Côte d'Azur.

Athens to Athens: Sailing round-trip from Athens from September 20, 2022, Silver Spirit will spend 15 glorious days discovering the treasures of the Black Sea coast, Turkish ruins, and the sapphire waters of the Aegean Sea with an overnight in Istanbul. Calls include Trabzon, Batumi, Sochi, Odessa, Constanta, Bourgas, Kusadasi, and Santorini. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 10,890 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/mediterranean/

2. Exploration of imposing landscapes and ancient history in Northern Europe & the British Isles

Northern Europe offers something for every curious traveler. The British Isles is home to ancient castles, soaring cathedrals, and landscaped gardens, while the Baltic Sea is awash with charming rustic towns, iconic museums, and fabled fjords. Guests will relive the sixties with a stroll down Liverpool's Penny Lane; sail along the same coastlines as the Vikings did almost a thousand years ago; and discover the imperial heritage of St. Petersburg with its iconic Hermitage Museum, gilded palaces, and ornate churches.

Copenhagen to Stockholm: On June 21, 2022, Silver Moon departs Copenhagen for Stockholm on a 7-day journey through the jewels of the Baltic Sea, as part of her first season in Northern Europe. Guests will stroll the charming streets of Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town, spend three days immersed in the czarist opulence of St. Petersburg, then cap off the experience by enjoying Helsinki's diverse architecture and Nordic cuisine. Silversea’s new S.A.L.T. culinary program will enrich the journey for guests, unlocking immersive culinary experiences on board and ashore. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 5,670 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/northern-europe/

3. Back to Mother Nature in pristine Alaska

Head to Alaska—The Great Land—if you've been dreaming of a vacation steeped in natural beauty. Beyond the rustic frontier towns, elaborate totem poles, and onion-domed Russian churches, America's 49th state is home to a dramatic landscape of mountains, forests, glaciers, and fjords. Hike along Tongass National Park's Mendenhall Glacier for spectacular vistas, climb the smooth granite walls of the White Pass for stunning views of Skagway River or take in the majesty of Misty Fjords from above during a floatplane tour.

Yokohama to Seward: Over the course of 17 days, Silver Shadow's May 24, 2022, voyage from Yokohama to Seward will showcase some of Japan's most enchanting ports and Russia's geothermal wonderland of Petropavlovsk Kamchatsky, before calling in Dutch Harbor, Kodiak Island and Homer—a trio of off-the-beaten-path gems in southern Alaska. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 5,940 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/alaska/

4. Polar exploration on the journey of a lifetime to Antarctica

The White Continent is a must-visit destination if you consider yourself an adventure seeker or nature lover. Antarctica beckons with towering icebergs, mighty glaciers and abundant wildlife. Penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds reign supreme in this frozen paradise. Here, you can hike volcanic shores dotted with snow and penguins, or paddle through mazes of floating ice in a kayak. And if you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the chilly waters of Deception Island, a volcanic caldera near the Antarctic Peninsula.

Ushuaia to Ushuaia: Silver Cloud departs Ushuaia on January 28, 2023, on an 18-day, round-trip expedition voyage to discover the astonishing wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Elephant Island, the Antarctic Sound, the Antarctic Peninsula, and the South Shetland Islands. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 20,070 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/antarctica/

5. A wildlife-rich expedition in the Galápagos aboard new ship Silver Origin

Few places on Earth rival the Galápagos Islands for their ecological diversity. Situated at the intersection of three Pacific Ocean currents, this archipelago of 19 islands and numerous islets beguiles with pristine landscapes and incredible wildlife. From feisty lava lizards, sun-basking marine iguanas, and lumbering giant tortoises to playful sea lions and the only penguin species found north of the equator, the archipelago is a treasure trove of unique creatures. If you're seeking transformative adventure, look no farther.

Baltra to San Cristóbal: On June 11, 2022, Silver Origin departs Baltra on a 7-day expedition sailing to San Cristóbal—a new itinerary for Silversea, which incorporates the archipelago’s most iconic islands, Isabela and Fernandina. The journey encompasses the islands of Daphne Major, Genovesa, North Seymour, Santiago, Fernandina, Isabela, Santa Cruz, Santa Fé, and Española. Highlights include a visit to the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center for giant tortoises and land iguanas, among other unique experiences. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 11,250 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/galapagos/

6. Experiencing a truly remote wilderness in the Kimberley, Australia

One of the world's last remaining authentic wildernesses, the Kimberley is tucked in the northern region of Western Australia. This rugged and rarely visited frontier is home to remarkable wildlife, spectacular canyons, and ancient rock art that conjures a sense of mystery. In this dramatic landscape, take a scenic flight over the breathtaking Bungle Bungle Range, speed through the waters of the phenomenal Horizontal Falls by Zodiac, and explore the Hunter River region. 

Darwin to Fremantle On August 3, 2022, Silver Explorer departs Darwin on a brand new 17-day expedition voyage to Fremantle, taking guests deeper south than ever before. UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef—teeming with turtles, manta rays and tropical fish—is among the highlights on this itinerary that includes calls in Matakus Island, Wyndham, the King George River, the Hunter River Region, the Buccaneer Archipelago, the Lacepede Islands, the Dampier Archipelago, the Montebello Islands, Exmouth, Dirk Hartog Island, and the Abrolhos Islands. Early Booking Bonus fares start from USD 13,860 per person, based on double occupancy.

Read related travel articles: https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/kimberley/

Silversea's cruises are now more all-inclusive than ever, providing vacation experiences that include shore excursions (at least one in every port); round-trip air; pre- and post-cruise hotel (depending on Silversea's air program flight schedule); transfers and luggage handling; butler service in every suite category; sumptuous cuisine served in multiple restaurants; onboard beverages throughout the ship, including premium wines and spirits; an in-suite bar stocked with guests' preferences; an in-suite 24-hour dining service; unlimited Wi-Fi; onboard gratuities; and more.

For more information on Silversea's new itineraries for 2022-2023, please visit:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-new-itineraries-2022-2023.html

Please refer to https://www.silversea.com/health-and-travel-notice.html for the latest health and travel advisories pertaining to cruise travel.

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.

VIKING ANNOUNCES NEW NILE RIVER SHIP FOR 2022

Addition of New Nile River Ship Builds on Viking’s Commitment to Egypt

Los Angeles (January 26, 2021) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced an expansion of its Egypt fleet with Viking Aton, a new state-of-the-art river vessel. Inspired by the design of the award-winning Viking Longships® and built specifically to navigate the Nile River, Viking Aton is currently under construction and is scheduled to debut in September 2022. Sailing on Viking’s popular Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, the new vessel will join Viking’s existing Egypt river fleet, which includes its identical sister ship Viking Osiris and Viking’s first owned and operated ship on the Nile, Viking Ra®.

“ Egypt remains a top destination for many of our guests who are inspired to discover the rich history and beauty of the region,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We will always maintain our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that are focused on the destination. The addition of Viking Aton is a reflection of our continued investment in Egypt; we look forward to introducing the country’s cultural treasures to even more Viking guests in the future.”

Viking Aton

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, Viking Aton will be a state-of-the-art ship with the clean, elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. Viking Aton’s features include all outside staterooms with river views; spacious suites with two full-size rooms and verandas; a pool and sun deck with 360-degree views; Viking Lounge with floor-to-ceiling glass doors; and Viking’s revolutionary Aquavit Terrace ideal for al fresco dining and indoor/outdoor viewing along the Nile River. Viking Aton will join the company’s other ships on the Nile, Viking Osiris, which is set to launch in 2021, and Viking Ra, which launched in 2018. Viking is the first and only Western company to build, own and operate ships on the Nile. 

Viking Aton Veranda Stateroom

Pharaohs & Pyramids

During the 12-day, Pharaohs & Pyramids cruisetour itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where guests can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access® to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post-Cruise Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Building on the success of the Oxford & Highclere Castle program – one of Viking’s highest-rated Pre/Post Extension that visits the filming location of “Downton Abbey” – the company has applied the same degree of Privileged Access to a new curated Pre-Cruise Extensions that allows guests to retrace the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. Guests on the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt extension will begin the journey in London, where they will meet their Viking Tour Director, an expert Egyptologist, and experience Privileged Access to two museums: first a private, early morning visit to the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum before it opens to the general public – and then a visit to the home and personal museum of world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, where the tour will be illuminated by candlelight, a re-enactment of how Soane entertained guests and showcased his exquisite collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus. Guests will also visit London’s Petrie Museum, which houses more than 80,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt and Sudan. In Oxford, guests will visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest in the world, and home to a varied collection of Egyptian mummies and art – and go behind the scenes at Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, where they will enjoy a Privileged Access visit to see Carter’s archives, which detail the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Lastly, guests will have further Privileged Access with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle – the country seat of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon – to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts, as well as archives and exhibits not normally accessible to the public.

Additional offerings include a Pre-Cruise Extension in Jerusalem where guests will explore the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital and a Post-Cruise Extension to Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Booking Details

From now through January 31, 2021, U.S. residents can take advantage of special savings on cruise fares and up to free international airfare on select 2021 - 2023 ocean and river itineraries.

Windstar Outlines Sailings through May 2023 and Produces New Voyage Planner

Fresh Itineraries, Transformed Ships, and Updated Health & Safety Protocols

Seattle, WA, January 26, 2021 – Cruise lines have had to update their deployment plans several times over the past year. To provide clarity on voyage plans, small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has released a new printed voyage planner brochure with nearly 200 pages of information detailing offerings from when its first yacht will set sail on May 1, 2021 through May, 2023. 

“This beautiful coffee-table publication is meant to educate and inspire people about Windstar and the 180 degrees from ordinary experience we have to offer,” says Windstar Cruises’ President Chris Prelog. “In 2021 through 2023, we have a mix of long-time favorites and fresh new itineraries, recently transformed yachts and exciting new cruise tours. We have planned further out so people can book early.” 

Windstar realized that now, more than ever, travelers are looking even further ahead to plan their next cruise vacation. That’s why the new Voyage Collection brochure details sailings through May of 2023, giving travelers a chance to plan ahead with a comprehensive reference in hand. The brochure will begin to land in mailboxes this week, and those interested in requesting a copy or viewing a digital version can access it here: https://www.windstarcruises.com/request-a-brochure/.  

The Windstar Voyage Collection 2021-2023 Includes the Following News and Updates 

New Yachts 

Its much-anticipated transformation of three Star Plus Class ships (with new restaurants, suite choices, and environmental improvements) will come to fruition in 2021 and will be a major development for the line, offering a range of upgraded experiences, more deck space and alfresco dining and a guest capacity of 312 per yacht.  

New Itineraries by Region 

Alaska 

• Windstar sails in Alaska from late spring through summer. Voyages are scheduled beginning in 2022 aboard the newly transformed all-suite Star Breeze.

• In 2022, a new, shorter seven-day Scenic Alaska cruise will feature coastal wilderness cruising along the Canadian Inside Passage.

Asia

• Windstar will sail in Southeast Asia on limited voyages in late 2021/early 2022 and will return to comprehensive sailings in Asia with five brand-new itineraries beginning the fall of 2022.

• In 2022, Island Hopping through Japan and Windstar Crew Hometowns: Philippines & Indonesia are new and noteworthy standouts.

Australia & New Zealand (New Destination) 

• In 2022, Windstar will debut its first-ever comprehensive itineraries to Australia & New Zealand aboard the newly transformed Star Breeze, visiting small, rarely visited ports of call like Middle Percy Island and Thursday Island. Overnights in Brisbane, Port Douglas, and Sydney, plus a late-night departure in Melbourne are other highlights. Pick from eight itineraries in the region.

Canada & New England

• Windstar sails in Canada & New England in the fall aboard the newly transformed Star Pride.

• In 2021, a new Iceland to Montreal itinerary will focus heavily on Greenland, including several days of scenic fjord cruising, and a revamped New York to San Juan sailing is much more than a “repositioning cruise” with two overnight stops in Bermuda, plus a day in St. Kitts and St. Bart’s.

• In 2022, a new Boston to San Juan offering includes warm Bermuda beaches on the journey.

Caribbean & Central America

• Windstar sails in the Caribbean from late fall to spring, but in 2021, Windstar will also sail its waters throughout the summer season aboard Star Breeze.

• In 2021, Windstar will make first-time visits to Miami and Key West in December.

• In 2022, Windstar will offer new sailings in Mexico, on both the East and West coasts, including an option from Cozumel to St. Maarten with rare Windstar visits to Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and tiny Cayman Brac.

• In 2023, the new Spanish Treasures via the Panama Canal starts on the Pacific side of the canal before heading to Panama’s Bocas del Toro and San Blas Islands, Cartagena/Santa Marta in Colombia, and ending in Aruba.

Mediterranean & the Holy Lands 

• In 2021, Windstar returns after a several year absence to Ashdod and Haifa in Israel; Alexandria and Port Said in Egypt (including Cairo and the Pyramids); and Istanbul, with an overnight stay. Windstar will also make inaugural visits to Odessa, Nessebar, Bucharest, Sochi, Batumi, and Sinop on its new Black Sea voyage. There are also new cruise tours to the Douro Valley, Lake Como, and Meteora.

• 2022 brings a variety of new sailings in the region including Island Gems of Spain & Portugal, with stops in the Canary Islands and Madeira, and a new eight-day sailing along the coastlines of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. There is also a new Athens to Istanbul itinerary (including a tight squeeze through the small-ship-only Corinth Canal) with a first-time port in Turkey’s Çanakkale.

Northern Europe 

• Windstar sails in Northern Europe in the summer and early fall, including Scandinavia and the Baltic, Europe’s West Coast, and the British Isles aboard the newly transformed Star Legend and Star Pride.

• In 2021, the popular Around Iceland itinerary returns with five sail dates, as well as a new option to be experienced as a cruise tour. Other new offerings in the region in 2021 include Norway’s Famous Fjords and Scandinavian Capitals & Fjords, which combines iconic Northern capitals with a handful of smaller, less-visited ports.

• In 2022, Windstar’s new Impressionist France brings a chance to travel from Bordeaux to Amsterdam with an overnight in St-Malo and scenic cruising on the Seine River, plus first-ever Windstar stops in Caen and Rouen (an overnight as well). A comprehensive journey around Spain is another highlight.

South Pacific 

• Windstar maintains a year-round presence in Tahiti and will resume sailings in May of 2021.

• In September of 2021, Star Breeze will begin sailing in Tahiti (through March of 2022), giving guests a unique chance to sail on the larger, all-suite, newly transformed yacht in this destination for a limited engagement.

• In 2021, Windstar’s Wind Spirit will sail from Tahiti to Australia, stopping at the small island nation of Vanuatu and tiny Pantara Island at the outer fringes of New Caledonia, among other off-the-beaten-path South Pacific islands.

U.S. West Coast 

• Windstar sails the West Coast of the U.S. (and Mexico) in the spring and fall. Sailings will resume there in 2022.

• In 2022, Windstar debuts several brand-new itineraries, including Baja Blue Water & Treasures on the Sea of Cortez and a West Coast Epicurean Extravaganza with new stops in Victoria and Santa Barbara.

New Policies and Procedures 

Windstar’s updated Travel Assurance Booking Policy allows cancellation up to 48 hours prior to departure on 2021 cruises.

Prelog says the company knows health and safety is a top concern for travelers. Windstar consulted with the epidemiology department at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Center and developed 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 hopes this extra effort to provide a safer environment on board is giving consumers (both avid cruisers and new ones) the confidence to book. 

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

SYCAMORE PARTNERS ANNOUNCES PLANS TO ADD FOURTH SHIP TO AZAMARA® FLEET

NEW YORK, January 25, 2021 – Sycamore Partners, a leading private equity firm, today announced plans for Azamara, the upmarket, boutique cruise line dedicated to Destination Immersion® experiences, to add a sister ship to the current fleet of Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest and Azamara Pursuit. Following a full-ship renovation, the fourth ship is scheduled to sail for its inaugural season in Europe in 2022.  

This news follows an announcement earlier this month that Sycamore Partners has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Azamara, presently under the portfolio of Royal Caribbean Group. The deal is expected to close in Q1 of this year. 

“The addition of this ship is an important milestone and reflects Sycamore Partners’ commitment to supporting Azamara in its next phase of growth,” said Stefan Kaluzny, Managing Director of Sycamore Partners. “Expanding the fleet will allow Azamara to continue to serve loyal customers, as well as those new to the brand, with more unique Destination Immersion® programming and itineraries.” 

The additional ship, which will be named at a later date, is comparable in size to Azamara Pursuit, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, expanding the fleet’s overall capacity by 33 percent. With this ship, guests will have the opportunity to visit unique, smaller ports and have a more intimate experience. Together, the four ships will support Azamara’s commitment to enrich immersion around the world. 

“We are thrilled to be expanding our fleet with a fourth ship, allowing us to visit even more regions of the world and better serve our guests,” said Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. “We look forward to launching even more unique and immersive itineraries and feel this is just the beginning of an exciting growth phase for Azamara.” 

Prior to launch, the fourth ship will undergo an extensive refurbishment to match its sister ships and Azamara’s upmarket position, as well as offer unique onboard elements. These updates will be similar to the renovations introduced most recently on Azamara Pursuit, bringing guests the experience of a boutique hotel at sea. 

Information about deployment and itineraries for the newest ship will be available in due course.  

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE RELEASES ADDITIONAL PLANS ON FLEET DEPLOYMENT

MIAMI, Jan. 25, 2021 – Carnival Cruise Line today released plans for additional ship deployments as it continues to refine its phased in approach to a return to guest operations for 2021, resulting in some ship-specific cruise cancellations and movements.  Those plans include:

• Related to already-announced dry dock plans for Carnival Magic, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Valor, those ships’ return to operations will be delayed until November 2021. Consequently, voyages on Carnival Magic from Norfolk (embarkations from Sept. 29-Oct. 30), Carnival Paradise from Tampa (embarkations from June 5-Oct. 28) and Carnival Valor from New Orleans (embarkations from Sept. 16-Oct. 28) have been cancelled.

• Carnival Miracle’s planned seasonal service from San Diego has been suspended until further notice, and sailings out of San Diego that were available for sale through April 2023 have been cancelled, with the exception of seven voyages to Hawaii, which will move to Long Beach.Carnival Radiance’s dry dock and transformation has been moved to September, with a planned arrival to Long Beach in November 2021.

• With Carnival Miracle’s reposition to Long Beach, the ship will assume the three- and four-day itineraries for Carnival Radiance from May 3-Nov. 1, 2021 as well as the seven Hawaii Carnival Journeys referenced above. In addition, Carnival Miracle will launch a new program of four- and five-day cruises to Mexico during the winter season, beginning November 2021 and continuing through April 2023.

Carnival is advising guests and travel agents of these changes.  Where possible, West Coast guests are being accommodated in a transfer to Carnival Miracle (from Carnival Radiance), or the retention of their Hawaiian itinerary via a Long Beach embarkation instead.  With this change, Carnival will eventually run a three-ship operation from its port facility at Long Beach:  Carnival Panorama sailing seven-day Mexican Riviera itineraries and Carnival Radiance operating three- and four-day  itineraries year-round, with Carnival Miracle operating four- and five-day Mexico and 14-day Hawaii itineraries during the winter.

“Like so much about this current global situation, we are adapting our plans as circumstances evolve and we are able to confirm alternatives.  We are disappointed that our return to seasonal ports like Norfolk and San Diego has been impacted and appreciate the support of those port partners and communities.  The support of our guests, travel agents, ports and business partners has truly been overwhelming as we work through this situation,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

MSC GRANDIOSA RESUMED SERVICE YESTERDAY AS PLANNED DEPARTING FROM GENOA FOR 7-NIGHT ITINERARIES IN THE WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN.

MSC Cruises' rigorous health and safety protocol makes these voyages one of the safest vacation options thanks to the safe environment on board for guests and crew

Geneva, Switzerland (January 25, 2021) — MSC Grandiosa, MSC Cruises’ flagship, departed last night from the port of Genoa in Italy to resume as planned regular 7-night cruises in the Mediterranean after a short pause of operations during the holiday period. The ship had temporarily suspended sailings as a result of the Italian decree that restricted movement within the country.

MSC Grandiosa first welcomed guests back on board in August 2020 and feedback from the more than 30,000 guests who have sailed so far on board has been extremely positive, so much so that some guests have been choosing to extend their stay on board by one or more weeks. The Company’s health and safety protocol helped to set the standard for the industry, making embarking on a cruise aboard an MSC Cruises ship one of the safest ways to vacation.

The protocol, which is unique in the hospitality industry and has been approved by national authorities in Italy, Greece and Malta, is being used as the basis to inform and support plans to restart cruising in other parts of the world. Prior to embarkation, all guests pass through a series of health checks, including COVID-19 testing for all guests and crew, as part of MSC Cruises comprehensive health and safety protocol, devised by the Company with the support of international experts and approved by the relevant authorities in the countries visited by MSC Cruises ships currently or due to be at sea. The health and safety measures also include a dedicated response plan that can be activated in collaboration with the authorities.

MSC Cruises' health and safety protocol has been designed to respond to the situation ashore even while it evolves and since November last year, some of the measures were enhanced including the introduction of mid-cruise testing for guests and weekly testing for crew as well as further enhanced hygiene and sanitation measures and the. Everyone on board observes social distancing as well as wearing masks in public areas, and the guest technology has been leveraged to facilitate onboard contact tracing. To preserve a safe environment on board the ship, guests only go ashore as part of protected shore excursions so that guests can be protected even while ashore by measures similar to those on board.

The Company's flagship, MSC Grandiosa, launched in November 2019 and offers a wide range of experiences for guests. The iconic Mediterranean-style interior promenade is the social hub of the ship, topped by an LED sky screen that changes scenery at every hour of the day and night. Guests can enjoy a wide range of international dining, including five specialty restaurants and for those looking for a more exclusive experience, the MSC Yacht Club — MSC Cruises’ ship within a ship concept — offers a range of private facilities including a private pool, lounge and restaurant as well as 24-hour a day butler and concierge service.  During their cruise, guests can relax with total peace of mind and safely enjoy a range of different activities, all adapted to meet the current health and safety measures, while still allowing to guests to have a memorable and rich experience.

To find out more about MSC Grandiosa visit here

To find out more about the health and safety measures on board visit here

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE NOTIFIES GUESTS OF CRUISE CANCELLATIONS

MIAMI, Jan. 22, 2021 – Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests of additional cruise cancellations, extending its pause in U.S. departures through April 30, 2021, and cancelling Australian operations through May 19, 2021. 

In addition, Carnival has cancelled the European itineraries for Carnival Legend which were to begin this May through Oct. 31, 2021, and moved the start date for Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral, with the first cruise now set for May 29, 2021.

Booked guests and travel agents are being notified directly of the cancellations and their options for a generous future cruise credit and onboard credit package, or a full refund.

“Our guests and travel agent partners continue to express their loyalty to Carnival and their desire to get back on our ships as soon as they can, and we are heartened by the booking demand and activity we continue to see.  We are certainly committed to welcoming them back as quickly as possible, but unfortunately we have determined it’s going to take a while longer, and the situation in Europe will also impact Mardi Gras’ departure to the U.S., and Carnival Legend’s itineraries in Europe,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES NAMED NEW SUPPLIER BY ENSEMBLE TRAVEL GROUP

Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Jan. 21, 2021 -- Atlas Ocean Voyages, the new luxe-adventure cruise brand, is proud to announce its new partnership with Ensemble Travel Group, a consortia of more than 700 top tier independent travel agencies in the U.S. and Canada.

“Atlas Ocean Voyages is happy to be a preferred supplier of Ensemble Travel Group,” said Brandon Townsley, Vice President of Sales and Trade Partnerships for Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Atlas’ once-in-a-lifetime experiences provide Ensemble’s exceptional travel advisors a unique, all-inclusive luxury product to recommend to their clients. Our valued travel advisor partners will be their clients’ heroes when they recommend an Atlas expedition to remote and bucket-list destinations for their highly anticipated return-to-cruise.

“As the industry looks forward to the restart of travel and cruising in particular, we are truly thrilled to be working with such an innovative and fresh new brand,” said David Harris, CEO of Ensemble Travel Group. “Our advisors are seeing a lot of pent-up demand for this kind of luxury adventure travel and we anticipate there will be tremendous interest in the destinations and on-board experience that Atlas will offer.”

Taking bucket list travel to new levels of discovery, Atlas will be launching service in July 2021 with World Navigator. The ship’s inaugural-season itineraries include trips to Israel, Egypt, as well as the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea. Additional destinations include the Caribbean and South America, as well as Antarctica, in winter 2021/22. World Navigator will also introduce the first ever L’OCCITANE luxury spa at sea. In addition, it is committed to employing the latest sustainability technology to help preserve the waters in which they sail in for future generations to enjoy.

Guests may choose among 98 suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private veranda. Atlas Ocean Voyages’ signature All Inclusive All the Way provides guests a complete, seamless and worry-free experience by including complimentary round-trip air travel, shore excursion at every port, prepaid gratuities, polar parkas, emergency medical evacuation insurance, premium wine and spirits, international beers and coffees, Wi-Fi, L’OCCITANE bath amenities, and regionally inspired gourmet dining. In every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use on board, en suite coffee, tea and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.

Atlas’ Plan With Confidence flexible travel policy provides travelers a 100 percent refund of deposited funds up to 91 days prior to sailing. Plus, they can change their reservation as many times as they want, up to 15 days before their voyages’ sail date. They can even change their destination and sail with Atlas in another part of the world or choose to cancel at least 15 days or more prior to the departure date and be assured of a 100 percent future cruise credit.

For more information about Atlas Ocean Voyages and to book clients on a luxe-adventure journey, travel advisors are invited to call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) and visit www.AtlasOceanvoyages.com, where they can also register to be an Atlas Ocean Voyages Advisor.

For more information on Ensemble Travel Group, visit www.ensembletravel.com.

CELEBRITY CRUISES SAILS 2022-2023 CARIBBEAN WINTER SEASON WITH EIGHT STUNNING SHIPS

Offers More 7-Night, Perfect Week in Paradise Itineraries 
Plus, Bucket List Panama Canal Itinerary

MIAMI – Jan. 19, 2021 -  Celebrity Cruises will sail the 2022-2023 Caribbean Winter Season with an all-star cast of eight award-winning ships, including its newest, ground-breaking Edge Series ships - Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Edge. They will be joined by four ships recently ‘revolutionized’ as part of a multi-million-dollar fleet renovation program, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Summit; and two additional gems in the fleet, Celebrity Constellation and Celebrity Reflection.  

Together, the ships will sail to some of the world’s most breath-taking island destinations from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa or San Juan, Puerto Rico. The wonderfully varied program offers four- to 11-night island itineraries, with an expanded offering of seven-night itineraries, and a once-in-a-lifetime Panama Canal itinerary.

Because Celebrity Cruises believes vacations should be effortless from the start, Wi-Fi, drinks and tips are now ‘Always Included SM’ in a Celebrity cruise purchase, bringing that wonderful feeling of ‘everything is taken care of’ to life.  In addition, the line’s ‘Cruise with Confidence’ program provides flexible cancellations and best price guarantees. 

Sailing the Caribbean in Edge Series Luxury

Celebrity Apex, the Celebrity fleet’s brand-new Edge Series ship, will sail round-trip from the line’s beautiful, state-of-the-art Terminal 25 at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on rotating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. From mid-November 2022 to mid-April 2023, guests can either soak up the sun in Puerto Rico, Tortola, St. Maarten, The Bahamas and St. Kitts and Nevis; or indulge their island dreams in Key West, Florida, Belize and Grand Cayman.

The second ship in the transformational Edge Series, Celebrity Apex, has some of the most luxurious accommodations at sea, including staterooms with ‘Infinite Verandas’ and two-story villas with their own outdoor plunge pools, to name a few. 

Add to this the ship’s 29 world-class culinary venues, including seven unique specialty restaurants, and signature spaces such as the incredible Magic Carpet®, the world’s first cantilevered venue at sea, and the carefree Rooftop Garden, and this stunning vessel offers no better way to relax and enjoy an unforgettable journey.

Celebrity Edge, the original Edge Series ship named one of the World’s Greatest Places of 2019 by TIME Magazine, will sail from Fort Lauderdale on a 10-night Ultimate Southern Caribbean itinerary, visiting St. Maarten, St. Lucia, St. Johns, Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis; an 11-night Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao itinerary; and an 11-night Panama Canal and Southern Caribbean itinerary. Panama Canal sailings offer the unique experience of going through the famed locks to the vast reservoir of Gatun Lake and back.  

Traveling in ‘Celebrity Revolution’ Style

Showing off their new and stylish “revolutionized” look, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Summit offer reimagined spaces and redesigned accommodations, restaurants and bars as they sail the regions crystal clear waters and visit a variety of intriguing islands and pristine beaches.  

• Now sailing year-round from Fort Lauderdale for the entire 2022-2023 Caribbean season, Celebrity Equinox offers 9-night winter itineraries through some of the most stunning destinations in the Southern Caribbean, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Antigua, Barbados and St. Lucia. 

• For the first time, Celebrity Millennium sails roundtrip from San Juan on three different unique weeklong Southern Caribbean voyages visiting a range of island favorites including Aruba, Barbados, Curacao, Antigua, Grenada, Bonaire and Dominica. 

• Celebrity Silhouette will sail from Miami on a rotating schedule of short and long island sailings. Her 10-night itinerary visits popular islands in the Eastern Caribbean; while her four-night getaway to Key West and the Bahamas provides guests a taste of island life.  

• Celebrity Summit will sail three different short Caribbean itineraries, offering four- and five-night “quick escapes” to Key West and the Bahamas; Key West and Mexico; or Grand Cayman and Mexico. 

Additional Celebrity winter 2022-2023 Caribbean offerings include:

• The intimately luxurious Celebrity Constellation sailing roundtrip from Tampa, Florida on a 10-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary; and an 11-night Ultimate Caribbean and The Americas itinerary, visiting Grand Cayman, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico with some sailings featuring an overnight stay in Cartagena, Colombia so guests can experience this dynamic city’s nightlife like a local;

• And the award-winning Celebrity Reflection treating guests to two different week-long itineraries to either Mexico, Jamaica and Grand Cayman or the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Celebrity Cruises is applying the recommendations of its Healthy Sail Panel of public health and scientific experts to ensure the highest standards of healthy travel are in place on all of its sailings. 

For more information on 2022-2023 Celebrity Cruise offerings, visit www.celebritycruises.com/2022-2023-cruises.  For more information on all Celebrity Cruises offerings, call 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com, or speak with a travel advisor.  

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 accommodation; dining, spa and entertainment experiences for modern tastes; and culturally rich and diverse destination experiences, all complemented by warm, personalised 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 holiday company Royal Caribbean Group. (NYSE: RCL)

Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features or itineraries. Prior to booking, please consult all applicable U.S. Center for Disease Control travel advisories, warnings, or recommendations relating to cruise travel at cdc.gov/travel/notices. If a certain threshold level of COVID-19 is detected onboard the ship during a voyage, the voyage will end immediately, the ship will return to the port of embarkation, and your subsequent travel, including your return home, may be restricted or delayed.

MSC GRANDIOSA WILL RETURN TO SEA FROM JANUARY 24

• Latest ministerial decree of the Italian government confirms that cruises can return to operation under the protection of their unique health and safety protocol

• Company’s flagship will resume scheduled weekly cruises in the Western Mediterranean, following the forced pause of operations over the holiday season

Geneva, Switzerland (January 18, 2021) – MSC Cruises announced today that MSC Grandiosa will return to sea starting on January 24. 

Following the latest ministerial decree issued by the Italian government and related updated health measures, the Company’s flagship will resume her planned weekly cruises leaving every Sunday from Genoa, Italy and calling the other Italian ports of Civitavecchia, Naples, Palermo as well as Valetta in Malta. Embarkation will be available from each port in Italy.

The latest ministerial decree authorized the resumption of cruise operations under the protection of the unique health and safety protocol that had been developed with and authorized by the Italian health, transport and safety authorities last summer. Since then, MSC Cruises has safely welcomed over 30,000 guests on board its two ships based out of Italy.

During the Christmas and end-of-year festivities through to the issuance of the latest ministerial decree, Italy-based cruise operation were temporarily suspended due to the restrictive measures related to movement within the country set forth by the local authorities. 

For more details on MSC Cruises’ health and safety measures visit: https://www.msccruisesusa.com/health-and-safety.