Adria Bono joins Swan Hellenic as Destination Management Director

High-end excursions expert joins top team at cultural expedition cruise pioneer

Today, Wednesday the 4rd of March, Swan Hellenic announced that its top management was being strengthened with the arrival of Adria Bono, bringing the cultural expedition cruise leader the connections and insight of twenty years’ unrivalled high-end excursions design and commissioning expertise in the luxury and expedition cruise markets.

Joining as Destination Management Director, Adria will work closely with Director of Expedition Operations Pierre Thomas to ensure that the expert lecture, expedition and excursion facets of Swan Hellenic’s cultural expedition cruises complement and enhance one another to the highest standards, providing guests with an exceptionally complete, insightful and enriching experience.

With an increasingly strong management team of top names in the high-end cruise industry, growing local market partnerships to provide close customer care, and an order book of three custom-designed expedition cruise ships all due for delivery on schedule, Swan Hellenic is clearly on track to deliver on its promise of an entirely new high-end cruise experience. Public enthusiasm is reflected in strong bookings for its maiden season, launching year-end 2021.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Adria to the team. With her tremendous focus on quality of guest experience and strong relationships with leading excursion partners worldwide, nobody could be better placed to ensure our guests enjoy unforgettably insightful explorations ashore, fully in tune Swan Hellenic’s pioneering heritage,” explained Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito.

Adria Bono commented: “I’m excited to join the dynamic, expert team bringing the Swan Hellenic vision of cultural expedition cruising to life across a distinctively stylish new five-star fleet. I look forward to contributing to the creation of a truly unique discovery experience.”

About Swan Hellenic

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in July 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company 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 PC 5 ice-class expedition cruise ships arriving in November 2021 and April 2022 will each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious staterooms and suites, the majority with large balconies. A larger PC 6 ice-class vessel accommodating 192 guests in 96 staterooms and suites in the same distinctive comfort and style as its sister ships will be arriving year-end 2022. All three new ships are being built in full compliance with SOLAS Safe Return to Port requirements.

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.

Headquartered in Cyprus with offices in London, Dusseldorf and Monaco, together with a branch office in Hong Kong (serving mainland China, Taiwan and South-East Asia), as well as partnerships serving India, Japan and Australia-New Zealand, Scandinavia and Iceland, Swan Hellenic supports the travel trade with specialist local partners to provide customers with expert personal service worldwide.

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

or call +44 (0) 207 846 0271

For Swan Hellenic, please contact:

Mario Bounas, VP, Marketing: Mario.bounas@swanhellenic.com

MSC CRUISES TO INTRODUCE TWO BRAND NEW SPECIALTY DINING CONCEPTS ON BOARD MSC VIRTUOSA

• New flagship will offer an incredible choice of restaurants and bars offering the very best international cuisines and flavors

• Two new specialty dining concepts to launch on board MSC Virtuosa - HOLA! Tacos & Cantina and Indochine Restaurant

Geneva, Switzerland (March 4, 2021) – MSC Cruises revealed today details of the extensive dining offering on board MSC Virtuosa, the Company’s next flagship. 

With five specialty restaurants, five main dining rooms, a 1,336-seat buffet and 21 bars and lounges, there is incredible choice for guests, offering casual or more formal settings to suit their needs. Inspired by MSC Cruises’ European roots — where a passion for food is a way of life — the enjoyment of good food plays an integral role in creating the unforgettable MSC Cruises’ experience. Guests are able to discover new cultures and tastes while on board, while also cruising to different destinations around the world. 

MSC Cruises’ CEO Gianni Onorato shared, “Dining on board MSC Cruises ships is a gastronomic adventure with authentic food, globally inspired menus and culinary artistry at the heart of our offering. As a company, we are in constant pursuit of new and exceptional experiences that showcase international cuisine, taking our guests on a gourmet journey of discovery. MSC Virtuosa will feature two brand new specialty restaurants — HOLA! Tacos & Cantina and Indochine. Developed by our talented culinary team and exclusive to MSC Cruises, these new restaurants build on the success of our existing popular specialty dining concepts and allow us to further expand and enrich our dining offering with new and innovative ideas.”

HOLA! TACOS & CANTINA: LAID BACK, LATIN AMERICAN-INSPIRED DINING

This new fast-casual street food dining concept offers a selection of Latin American and Mexican-inspired dishes and drinks to be shared and enjoyed in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, open for lunch and dinner. Guests can choose from a tantalizing array of dishes ranging from blue corn tacos and nachos, authentic beef empanadas and tasty tamales through to tortilla soup or vegetarian tacos, all to be savored with a glass of agua fresca or a selection of Top 10 Tequilas and Mezcals! 

A signature salsa bar offers a choice of six home-made salsas and a large selection of spicy sauces as well as a fresh guacamole station to round out the experience. Guests are able to choose between having their guacamole made for them or taking the interactive meal to the next level and making the guacamole themselves at their table. And, why not then opt for sweet-treat or pop in for a sweet snack from the all-new Mexican Ice Cream Taco bar.

INDOCHINE: A FUSION OF FINE CULINARY HERITAGES

This new original concept will offer guests Vietnamese classics with a French twist, combining two delicious culinary heritages. The menu will include a host of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as a multitude of tasty options that can be served family style to share amongst friends. From Green Papaya Salads to Beef Bo Buns, and French Roasted Snails to Veggie Vietnamese Crêpes, the selection offers healthy and balanced options, featuring careful combinations of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and hot flavors. In addition, the ample wine list features both New and Old-World options, to tempt even the most practiced of sommeliers, while the tropical signature selection cocktails help complete this authentic experience.

POPULAR SPECIALTY DINING CONCEPTS EXCLUSIVE TO MSC CRUISES

Returning to MSC Virtuosa are the three popular MSC Cruises specialty restaurants that guests know and love from other ships in the fleet.

• The traditional American-style steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut, celebrates the skill of a master butcher in a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere. Serving specialty cuts of meats including dry-aged tomahawk, T-bone, as well as surf and turf, cooked in an open kitchen.

• The stylish Kaito Teppanyaki restaurant offers the modern East-West cooking style of Japanese cuisine on two teppanyaki grills, where chefs delight and entertain guests with spectacular flips and tricks while preparing authentic, mouth-watering meals right before their eyes.

• The Kaito Sushi Bar offers a more intimate experience, where guests can watch their fresh sushi, sashimi and tempura being prepared by master sushi chefs for a meal seated above the bustling promenade.

EXTENSIVE BUFFET AND ELEGANT MAIN DINING

• A favorite of the dining experience is the 1,336-seat Marketplace Buffet, open from early morning until night, serving a wide variety of international dishes with open-fronted kitchens, a fresh mozzarella factory, freshly baked bread, and a fresh pasta, fruit and vegetable market. For summer 2021, the buffet will follow the same service concept as sister-ship MSC Grandiosa, with food being plated for the guests and with the seating layout to allow for social distancing.

• MSC Virtuosa will also feature five main dining restaurants serving first-class Mediterranean and international specialties in elegant surroundings. Menus change every day, and exquisite dishes have been created for the Elegant dinners. In addition, the main dining venues have all been specially designed around the theme of music.

CHOICE OF BARS AND LOUNGES FOR ALL OCCASSIONS

Rounding out the dining offering, the bar experience on MSC Virtuosa will suit all possible occasions. The ship offers a variety of unique places to enjoy a drink with family and friends, with 21 bars and lounges both indoor and outdoor. 

• The Champagne Bar offers a wide selection of different champagnes accompanied by a mouth-watering array of caviar, oysters and crab to complement the experience.

• The Sky Lounge is known for its molecular cocktails in art deco inspired surroundings.

• The Masters of the Sea, an authentic British pub, offers a selection of over 40 different beers.

Also new to the ship is the immersive, futuristic MSC Starship Club featuring Rob, the first-ever humanoid, robotic bartender at sea. This immersive bar and entertainment experience includes 3D holograms, a digital art wall and a 12-seater infinity digital interactive table, giving guests the possibility to explore space with their own personalized galactic tour. Rob will mix, and serve his signature cocktails, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and countless personalized drinks, just like a human bartender would do, while engaging guests with his voice and human-like expressions for a fully immersive bar experience. 

GOURMET CHOCOLATE, CREPES AND GELATO

Award-winning pastry chef and chocolatier, Chef Jean-Philippe Maury returns with his two mouth-watering concepts — Jean-Philippe Maury Café & Chocolat and Crêpes & Gelato. 

• The Chocolat & Café features an open chocolaterie with fresh chocolate made on board, framed by remarkably intricate chocolate sculptures, worthy of any museum. Guests may watch the chocolate-making process with their own eyes as they enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this café and shop, while tasting an impressive array of treats.

• The Crêpes & Gelato counter is filled with tempting delicacies, all set to satisfy a sugar craving from the classic milkshakes and sorbet, to trendy green juices!

To find out more about MSC Virtuosa visit here.

#MasterpieceAtSea #MSCVirtuosa

ALLURE OF THE SEAS GEARS UP FOR BIG TEXAS ADVENTURE WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S 2022-23 WINTER CARIBBEAN DEPLOYMENT

Cruise Line Goes All-in on Destinations, Giving Travelers More Variety for an Adventure-packed Vacation

MIAMI, March 3, 2021 – Royal Caribbean International is bringing the heat to its 2022-2023 winter deployment with weeklong Caribbean itineraries that will inspire guests to adventure again. The cruise line will set a bold tone for the season, breaking its own Texas-sized record with one of the world’s largest ships homeporting in Galveston for the first time ever, starting in November 2022. The adventure-filled Allure of the Seas will spend the season sailing 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Royal Caribbean’s new state-of-the-art cruise terminal, which will begin construction in April and is set to open in fall 2022. The renowned Oasis Class ship will captivate vacationers from the Lonestar State and neighboring drive markets with her award-winning, unique seven-neighborhood concept that features an array of world-class dining, adrenaline-inducing activities and groundbreaking entertainment in the iconic open-air AquaTheater entertainment venue. The excitement doesn’t stop there with five other innovative ships sailing from Florida, including Allure’s three sister ships: Oasis, Harmony and Symphony of the Seas.

No matter the departure port, travelers can expect enriching itineraries that combine cruise vacation classics like Nassau, The Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico and Falmouth, Jamaica with far-flung favorites like Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. The cruise line’s 7-night Caribbean deployment delivers on the desire for more local flavor with the addition of extended stays and late-night visits to select destinations like Oranjestad, Aruba and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Vacationers will see a completely different side of the sun-soaked beaches and lively city centers with more time to explore the natural wonders found inland or enjoy regional delicacies and drinks under the stars. No destination delivers more of everything than Royal Caribbean’s very-own Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the cruise line’s series of private island destinations around the world. The whole family has their pick of thrill and chill experiences, from the tallest waterslide in North America and the highest vantage point in The Bahamas from a helium balloon that rises 450 feet in the air to white sand beaches and clear blue water at Chill Island and The Bahamas’ first floating cabanas at Coco Beach Club.

Royal Caribbean’s 2022-2023 7-night Caribbean cruises open for bookings today, March 3. Additional itinerary highlights include:

Year-round Favorites in Florida
Miami and Orlando will serve as mainstay gateways for adventure for two of Royal Caribbean’s most popular ships.

• Symphony will sail a mix of 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, visiting ports such as Philipsburg, St. Maarten and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas on Eastern itineraries, and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, as well as Roatan, Honduras on Western itineraries. All sailings will visit Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

• Orlando’s Port Canaveral cruise terminal will continue to be home to Harmony, which will offer a mix of 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries that include visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The Eastern Caribbean sailings will take guests to favorite ports, including Charlotte Amalie, Philipsburg, and Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis, while the Western Caribbean sailings visit favorites such as Nassau, Bahamas; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Royal Caribbean private destination Labadee, Haiti.

Seasonal Stunners 
The ultimate winter season beckons for a number of Royal Caribbean’s best ships to ply the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.  

• Beginning November 2022, Allure will sail 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston for the first time and visit Roatan, Honduras as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya. Both the young and young at heart can take advantage of the endless array of Allure’s signature adventures, including a zip line that flies across the ship ten decks high, a pair of Royal Caribbean’s heart-pumping FlowRider surf simulators and not to mention unparalleled theatrical productions at the dazzling open-air AquaTheater.

• After a summer spent in New York, Oasis will head south to Miami and sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, all featuring a full day at Perfect Day at CocoCay, from November 2022 through April 2023. Guests opting for an Eastern Caribbean sailing on board one of the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ships will visit the likes of Labadee, Charlotte Amalie, and a late-night visit to San Juan. Those sailing west will call on Costa Maya and Cozumel as well as Roatan.

• After a summer in Alaska, Serenade of the Seas will seek warmer waters in Tampa, Florida. The ship is set to sail 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries that visit Cozumel and Costa Maya, Roatan, and Belize City, Belize, as well as 7-night Bahamas and Perfect Day itineraries, which take guests on an island-hopping adventure through the Bahamas archipelago, stopping in Nassau, Bimini and Perfect Day at CocoCay. As Serenade makes its way from Vancouver to Tampa, it will offer a one-time Pacific Coast itinerary to Los Angeles before making a 13-night journey through the famous Panama Canal.

• Following its short season in the northeast, Voyager of the Seas will make the journey from Boston to San Juan in November 2022 to offer 7-night Southern Caribbean itineraries that call on ports like Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Willemstad, Curacao. Guests can take their time when visiting Oranjestad, Aruba with longer calls that offer a deep dive into the cultural mix of Dutch and Caribbean influences.

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 18 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.

Royal Caribbean International is applying the recommendations of its Healthy Sail Panel of public health and scientific experts to provide a safer and healthier cruise vacation on all of its sailings. Health and safety protocols, regional travel restrictions and clearance to visit ports of call, are subject to change based on ongoing evaluation, public health standards, and government requirements. U.S. cruises and guests: For more information on the latest health and travel alerts, U.S. government travel advisories, please visit www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/itinerary-updates or consult travel advisories, warnings or recommendations relating to cruise travel on applicable government websites.  

ODYSSEY OF THE SEAS REACHES KEY CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE

MIAMI, March 1, 2021 – The game-changing Odyssey of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s brand-new ship under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, has completed its 10-plus-hour, 20-mile (32-kilometer) conveyance. The conveyance is a process unique to ships built at Meyer Werft, as the shipyard is situated inland along the Ems River, and the ship must make the journey backward and down the river to get to the North Sea.

A sight to behold, maneuvering a 169,000-gross-ton ship that measures 1,138 feet (347 meters) long and 135 feet (41 meters) wide is no mean feat. The milestone naturally draws local residents to the riverbanks to marvel at this impressive technical and operational moment.

Boasting all-new and first-to-brand experiences, Odyssey will raise the bar when it comes to all aspects of the cruise experience. The innovative Quantum Ultra Class ship’s combination of iconic Quantum Class favorites and new-to-class features include:

• SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity center at sea that will now offer guests an indoor and outdoor activity complex. Think sports courts, bumper cars, laser tag, digital interactive games, jumbo screens, a DJ booth and more; this is the ultimate, high-adrenaline playground for all ages. The two-level venue will also be home to the first-in-class Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, where guests can catch their team on dozens of screens and enjoy a menu of game-day favorites and icy-cold drafts on tap.

• Odyssey’s pool deck is a vibrant oasis with additional uncovered pool space to optimize sun-soaked vacation experiences. Guests can lounge on the Caribbean-inspired pool deck, unwind in the four whirlpools or shady hammocks and casitas on decks 14 and 15, and cool off with freshly made cocktails at the two-level signature bar, The Lime & Coconut.

• Dedicated spaces for kids and teens have been amplified with technology to offer interactive, personalized and unexpected experiences. Teens have access to their exclusive area, Social180, which also includes an outdoor wraparound deck, The Patio, to hang out with ocean views. With a gaming lounge, movies, music and outdoor games, 13- to 17-year-olds have everything they need and can socialize without kids and grownups cramping their style.

• Bringing guests a taste of Italy is Royal Caribbean’s first Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. From hand-tossed pizzas delivered straight from the pizza oven to a wine list that ranges from Sangiovese to Super Tuscan, travelers can enjoy traditional, rustic Italian dishes and fresh Mediterranean flavors.

• Hunger pangs will be alleviated with Odyssey’s diverse range of dining options. Never before seen in North America is Teppanyaki, the restaurant serving authentic Asian flavors cooked in one of Japan’s traditional styles. Travelers can also expect to find Royal Caribbean favorites, including sushi and sashimi at Izumi, hand-cut steaks at Chops Grille, the Chef’s Table epicurean, intimate experience and imaginative cuisine at Wonderland.

• Whether it’s surfing the waves on the signature FlowRider surf simulator or feeling the freedom of freefall on RipCord by iFly – the skydiving simulator – Odyssey will satisfy any adrenaline seeker. Not forgetting the 40-foot rock wall and gravity-defying SkyPad, the virtual reality and bungee trampoline experience that transports guests to another world. Those looking for unrivaled 360-degree views have the North Star glass observation capsule that extends 300 feet (91 meters) above the ocean.

• Guests can expect Royal Caribbean’s signature productions and famed Quantum Class entertainment in teched-out venues, complete with immersive technology, unparalleled special effects and world-leading talent. Fusing art and technology, Two70 boasts 270-degree panoramic windows with sweeping ocean views in an expansive open-area living room, which transforms in plain sight into a 135-foot-wide (41 meters) and 22-foot-tall (6 meters) screen powered by Vistarama technology. At night, the iconic venue becomes a multidimensional theater, where a troupe of six agile Roboscreens come to life in sync with music, special effects and live performers and aerialists. Guests can then head to Music Hall for an ever-changing setlist of live performances and epic cover bands, but not before grabbing a drink served by robots at the Bionic Bar.

In a Royal Caribbean first, Odyssey will debut in Haifa, Israel this May. Residents of Israel will be the first to experience the ship on a mix of 3- to 7-night escapes visiting the Greek Isles and Cyprus, roundtrip from Haifa. Odyssey will then cross the Atlantic to begin its inaugural North American season in November, offering 6- to 8-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale and visiting far-flung destinations, including Curacao and Aruba. 

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 18 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.

Royal Caribbean International is applying the recommendations of its Healthy Sail Panel of public health and scientific experts to provide a safer and healthier cruise vacation on all of its sailings. Health and safety protocols, regional travel restrictions and clearance to visit ports of call, are subject to change based on ongoing evaluation, public health standards, and government requirements. U.S. cruises and guests: For more information on the latest health and travel alerts, U.S. government travel advisories, please visit www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/itinerary-updates or consult travel advisories, warnings or recommendations relating to cruise travel on applicable government websites.  

MSC CRUISES ANNOUNCES A SECOND SHIP IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

• MSC Seaside to join MSC Grandiosa from May 1, with a newly-designed itinerary

• MSC Grandiosa to also extend her current West Mediterranean itinerary through to the end of May

• MSC Cruises confirms planned East Mediterranean itineraries from May and in the West Mediterranean from June

Geneva, Switzerland (March 1, 2021) – MSC Cruises today announced that one of its most innovative ships, MSC Seaside, will be deployed for the first time in Europe since her launch in 2017, joining the Company’s flagship, MSC Grandiosa, in the Mediterranean from May 1, 2021. 

MSC Seaside will be performing a brand-new itinerary featuring 7-night cruises calling Genoa, Valetta in Malta and Civitavecchia, with two first time ports of call – Siracusa in Sicily and Taranto in Puglia.

MSC Seaside will implement for the protection of its guests and crew MSC Cruises’ industry-leading health and safety protocol that has been tried and tested since August 2020. Measures will include universal testing at embarkation as well as mid-cruise, weekly testing of crew, social distancing, the wearing of masks in public areas, only protected shore excursions as well as enhanced deep sanitation and ongoing cleaning procedures.

MSC Grandiosa’s current successful itinerary will be extended through to the end of May with the ship calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples, Palermo as well as Valetta in Malta.

MSC Grandiosa has been welcoming guests for a vacation at sea from August of last year and has since safely and responsibly carried more than 40,000 guests.

MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa itineraries are currently available to residents from Schengen countries and Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania.[1]

OTHER ITINERARY UPDATES

MSC Cruises today also updated the itineraries for the start of its summer season (beginning in April) as a result of the delay in the return to availability of certain ports across Europe and is canceling all other itineraries in the West Mediterranean for April and May 2021, with cruises there resuming from June 2021 as planned.

Similarly, in the East Mediterranean cruises are canceled for April 2021, with cruises resuming from May as planned. In Northern Europe, all itineraries are canceled in April. 

Finally, in the Caribbean all itineraries are canceled through to and including May 31, 2021.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN SAYS “SHALOM, ISRAEL” WITH ODYSSEY OF THE SEAS DEBUT

New Innovative Ship to Launch with Cruises from Haifa, Israel

MIAMI, March 1, 2021 – Israeli holidaymakers will set a new course for adventure this summer when Royal Caribbean International begins sailing from Israel for the first time in May. The global cruise line will offer Israelis a combination of 3- to 7-night escapes visiting the Greek Isles and Cyprus on board its highly anticipated, brand-new ship, Odyssey of the Seas. The new sailings will go on sale on Tuesday, March 9.

The itineraries, roundtrip from Haifa, Israel, will include visits to idyllic isles and destinations in the Mediterranean, including Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Athens, Greece and Limassol, Cyprus.  

“We are thrilled to debut Royal Caribbean cruises from Israel with our newest and most innovative ship, Odyssey of the Seas. Israeli travelers will be looking to get away, relax with total peace of mind, and enjoy the travel experiences they are missing dearly; and that is what we do best,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Sailing from Israel is an opportunity we have had our sights on for quite some time. We greatly appreciate the government of Israel for their collaboration and confidence in us to deliver memorable cruise experiences to their residents, and look forward to delivering on that promise aboard our newest ship – the first ‘Green Island’ at sea.” 

Residents of Israel will be the first guests to cruise on Odyssey during its inaugural season. The innovative ship is designed to make for a memorable holiday for every kind of traveler, with a variety of new and signature experiences from bow to stern. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, highlights on board include a two-level pool deck designed for downtime under the sun and stars, SeaPlex – the two-level indoor and outdoor activity complex that is a high-adrenaline playground for all ages, and a lineup of complimentary and specialty restaurants primed to please every palate with cuisine from around the world. And entertainment throughout the ship will be punctuated by high-tech signature productions in the Royal Theater and Two70, where art and multimedia merge for jaw-dropping performances found only on Odyssey.

“Thanks to the millions of vaccines we have brought, I am proud that Israel will be the first country in the world to launch Royal Caribbean’s new flagship. Royal Caribbean's decision to come to Israel is a significant expression of confidence in our policy. This is an important economic, touristic moment for the State of Israel,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “Israel is a global model of success. We will continue our program – the ‘green passport’ – so that we can get out of the COVID-19 virus in peace. Just as we made Israel the world champion in vaccines, we will make it the world champion in economics and tourism in the post-Corona era.”

In conjunction with Israel’s health and tourism authorities, Royal Caribbean will be the first to offer fully vaccinated sailings, where both crew and guests above the age of 16 will be vaccinated against COVID-19. Details on the additional health and safety measures to be implemented by Israel and Royal Caribbean will be announced at a later date.

The Greek Minister of Tourism, Mr. Haris Theoharis, supports all the efforts for the resumption of cruising in Greece and the surrounding area. He said, “We are very happy with today’s announcement as our recent travel agreement with Israel is already bringing results, and more people will have the opportunity to have unique experiences in our beautiful destinations and islands.”

Savvas Perdios, the Deputy Minister of Tourism for Cyprus commented, “It is an honor to be featured in Royal Caribbean’s itinerary this summer, and we are delighted to welcome their newest ship to our island. Cyprus supports the cruise industry and is pleased to help the industry on its road to recovery. We are certain that guests will have a great time, both on board the ship and when visiting Cyprus, one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.” 

GAME-CHANGING SHIP

Odyssey will be the first Quantum Ultra Class ship to homeport in the region, touting a distinctive new look, an action-packed top deck and a mix of record-holding hits and groundbreaking firsts. 

The state-of-the-art ship will come to life with game-changing, technological innovations like the next-generation SeaPlex, which will see the addition of this venue’s first Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade with club-level views of the competition below; a reimagined Adventure Ocean kids program, and the maxed-out Social180 teen lounge with gaming consoles, music, movies and an outdoor wraparound deck with ocean views. Guests will also enjoy a variety of dining venues, including Teppanyaki, serving East Asian flavors in a traditional Japanese style; and the cruise line’s first Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, which offers rustic Italian dishes with a contemporary flair. Up top, Odyssey’s vibrant next-level pool deck will feature two open-air, resort-style pools and four whirlpools with shady casitas and hammocks. Also on deck will be several guest favorites, including the FlowRider surf simulator, skydiving with RipCord by iFly, the iconic North Star all-glass observation capsule that boasts 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level, and robot bartenders at Bionic Bar.

For more information on Royal Caribbean’s first cruises from Israel, guests and travel advisors can visit www.royalcaribbean.com/il.

Windstar Cruises to Open Miami Office in 2022; Plans to Resume Sailings in June 2021

Seattle, WA, February 26, 2021 – Windstar Cruises announced today it plans to relocate its office from Seattle, Washington to Miami, Florida in June 2022.  The small ship cruise line alerted guests and travel advisors on February 24 that it was pushing back its restart of operations from May to June 2021. 

“With time and space away from our Seattle office, we’ve thought about our location and other possibilities once our two year lease is up,” said Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. “Although we have all adapted to working remotely with great success, we have been working on a plan for a new office location. A long timeline is needed to facilitate a smooth transition. “

The Miami office will accommodate mostly cruise operation functions and some direct supporting teams to operations.  Other functions such as marketing, revenue, accounting and IT will have the opportunity to move to parent company Xanterra’s Denver office to collaborate with team members there. Windstar Cruises is owned by Xanterra Travel Collection, a group of global hospitality and travel companies, based in Denver.

“Windstar is poised for success in the small ship cruise segment,” said Andrew N. Todd, CEO of Windstar Cruises and Xanterra Travel Collection. “Our expert team is nimble and adaptable with many years of experience. We are looking forward to the advantages of a new Miami office, combining teams in Denver and collaborating remotely as we have done this past year.” 

Windstar plans to open the new Miami office and transition shared/support services to Denver in June 2022. Windstar expects some employees will choose to work remotely from the Seattle area and others to relocate to Miami or Denver depending on job function. 

Prelog says that as the center of the cruise industry in the U.S., a Miami office will be beneficial for building industry relationships and attracting new talent. It will also enable operations employees in Miami to be closer to the line’s ships and crew as they pass through Florida and shorten up flight times to the ships in Europe and the Caribbean. 

On Wednesday, February 24, Windstar announced that after carefully assessing multiple factors it was canceling May sailings and would restart operations in June 2021.  The decision was made after reviewing current information on COVID transmission rates, travel restrictions and government regulations. The line will re-start cruise operations in a phased manner with initial cruises at a reduced guest occupancy, some modified itineraries, and enhanced health and safety protocols.

New timeline for resumption of operations:
Wind Spirit – June 10, 2021 – Tahiti
Star Breeze – June 19, 2021 – Caribbean
Wind Star – June 19, 2021 – Mediterranean
Wind Surf – June 29, 2021 – Mediterranean
Star Legend – July 4, 2021 – Mediterranean
Star Pride – July 14, 2021 – Northern Europe/Iceland

Wave Season Offer Extended
To continue its current wave of bookings, Windstar Cruises announced today it will extend its wave season offer through March 31, 2021. Originally scheduled to run January 5 – February 28, 2021, the offer encourages prospective cruisers to book early so as not to miss out amid the coming rush of travel planning. The Sail Small, Live Large with Big Perks offer lets travelers choose from a set of complimentary perks plus a reduced deposit of 5%. 

Now extended through March 31, 2021, “Pick Your Perk” savings options include:

• Up to $1,000 shipboard credit per stateroom or

• One night hotel pre- or post-cruise on Europe voyages or

• Premium beverage package (wine, beer, spirits, soda) or

• Free Wi-Fi

Guests may pick one complimentary perk which vary depending on the length of their cruise and room category. Along with this offer, deposits have been reduced from 15% of cruise fare to 5%. Windstar’s updated Travel Assurance Booking Policy allows cancellation up to 48 hours prior to departure on 2021 cruises.

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

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE EXTENDS PAUSE FROM U.S. THROUGH MAY 2021

MIAMI, Feb. 24, 2021 – Carnival Cruise Line has notified booked guests and travel advisors that its pause in operations from U.S. ports has been extended through May 31, 2021.

A date for the return of guest cruising operations from U.S. ports has not yet been determined.  Earlier in February, Carnival began providing more flexible options for guests booked into early summer so that they could cancel their reservation without penalty if they needed or wanted to make other plans.  As it has done throughout the pause, Carnival is providing guests on cruises cancelled today the choice of a future cruise credit plus onboard credit package, or a full refund.

“We continue to work on plans to resume operations and are encouraged by the focus to expedite vaccine production and distribution which are having a demonstrated impact on improving public health,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  “We appreciate the support of all of our guests, employees and trade partners who we know are looking forward to our return.”

OCEANIA CRUISES UNVEILS 2022-2023 TROPICS AND EXOTICS ITINERARIES

Antarctica, Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific Headline 127 Voyages from 7 to 77 Days

Miami, FL, February 24, 2021 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, announced that its 2022-2023 Tropics and Exotics Collection of voyages is available for travelers and travel advisors to preview online at OceaniaCruises.com. Fresh on the heels of the line’s record-setting single-day sellout of its 2023 Around the World in 180 Days voyage, Oceania Cruises is opening these 127 new late-2022 and early-2023 voyages for sale on March 3, 2021. 

“Both loyal past guests and first-time guests alike have shown an almost unquenchable thirst for worldwide travel with our 2022 itineraries and our recently launched 2023 world cruise and we are certain they will be delighted with this latest collection of memorable, exotic experiences,” stated Bob Binder, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises. 

More Diverse Itineraries, More Overnights, and More Itinerary Lengths Ranging from 7 to 77 Days

From week-long winter getaways to languid, months-long sojourns, the 2022-2023 Tropics and Exotics Collection of itineraries are breathtaking in their scope, range, and diversity. Travelers can indulge in a quick escape to the Caribbean from Miami, Aruba, Barbados, or even glittering Panama City. Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia beckon with their sultry allure while the wilds of Africa, the myriad cultures of Asia, and the experiential kaleidoscope that is Australia and New Zealand offer innumerable epic adventures. South America takes center stage this season with the juxtaposition of pulsating metropolitan cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires against the majesty of pristine Chilean fjords and the fabled Amazon River basin. New for this season, four South America voyages offer the breathtaking grandeur and unforgettable experience of three days in Antarctica. These voyages are made all the richer with overnight and multi-day stays on many itineraries. 

2022-2023 Tropics & Exotics Collection Highlights

• 127 itineraries to choose from ranging from 7 to 77 days

• 272 ports of call and 284 overnight or multi-day stays

• Total of 62 extended explorations of 15 to 77 days that are perfect for long-cruise connoisseurs

• Antarctica – four voyages aboard Marina that include scenic cruising in Antarctica

• Caribbean – a diverse calendar of offerings with a great array of voyage lengths (from 7 to 77 days), a wide array of longer voyages with 12 cruises that are 15 days or more in length, and new embarkation ports beyond Miami in Bridgetown, Barbados; Panama City, Panama; and Oranjestad, Aruba

• 22 voyages aboard Regatta and Nautica spanning the entirety of Asia and Africa ranging from 10 to 40 days

• Three trans-Tasman Australia/New Zealand voyages aboard Regatta + six voyages that explore the South Pacific, Polynesia, and Hawaii

• Marina offers three forays into the mighty Amazon

• Nautica reprises her perennially popular voyages to Africa, India, and the Arabian Peninsula

• 35-day Christmas and New Year’s circumnavigation of Australia

• Three springtime immersions into Japan, sailing roundtrip from Tokyo

·       The diversity of enriching destination experiences with our Go Local Tours, exclusive culinary-focused excursions, and overland-tours that offer access to some of the world’s most fabled historical, cultural, and archaeological sites

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor. 

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s six small, luxurious ships carry only 684 or 1,250 guests featuring the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has two 1,200-guest Allura class ships on order.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN DEBUTS SHOWSTOPPING SHORT CARIBBEAN SAILINGS

Cruise Line Offers Travelers Convenient, Adventure-Packed 3- to 5-night Escapes from Florida and Texas in 2022-23

MIAMI, Feb. 24, 2021 – Royal Caribbean International today revealed all-new short Caribbean sailings that redefine what it means to “get away.” With more ships offering shorter and more frequent escapes in 2022-2023, the cruise line provides vacationers with the flexibility they need without sacrificing the adventure they crave. Guests can make the most of a long weekend away or a midweek break on one of eight innovative ships, departing from five ports across Florida and Texas, sailing 17 distinct itineraries. The convenient 3- to 5-night cruise vacations combine unparalleled onboard experiences with culturally rich destinations perfect for any type of traveler.

There will be no shortage of adventure, from discovering the ancient ruins of Costa Maya, Mexico to exploring the tropical picture-perfect islands of The Bahamas and Caribbean. Guests can also experience the endless thrill and chill that awaits on Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s game-changing private destination in The Bahamas. The island features Thrill Waterpark with 13 jaw-dropping slides, like the tallest waterslide in North America; the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool; and Up, Up & Away, the helium balloon that floats up to 450 feet in the air. Vacationers can enjoy The Bahamas’ first floating cabanas at the destination’s Coco Beach Club, which includes a beachside dining experience, infinity pool and private cabanas.

Royal Caribbean’s 2022-2023 seasonal and year-round short Caribbean cruises open for bookings today. Highlights of the sun-soaked sailings include:

Unforgettable Year-Round Adventures

• On the heels of a $116 million amplification in 2020, Freedom of the Seas will sail 3- and 4-night cruises from Miami to Nassau and top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

• Independence of the Seas will continue to sail 3- and 4-night getaways from Orlando’s Port Canaveral to The Bahamas, with full-day visits in Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Tropical Seasonal Getaways

• Liberty of the Seas will take a turn in Fort Lauderdale, Florida to sail alternating 3- and 4-night winter escapes to The Bahamas, including Perfect Day at CocoCay and Grand Bahama Island – a new destination for the ship.

• Mariner of the Seas, the ship that first revolutionized the short Caribbean getaway with amplified experiences, will continue sailing from Port Canaveral through the winter, now with southbound 4- and 5-night cruises to the western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

• Brilliance of the Seas will set sail from Venice (Ravenna), Italy to settle in Tampa, Florida for the winter season. The ship will embark on a mix of 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean itineraries, offering select 4-night sailings to Nassau and Key West, Florida.

• Tampa favorite Rhapsody of the Seas will sail 4- and 5-night sailings to Cozumel, Mexico and George Town, Grand Cayman in the spring and early fall. In the heart of summer, vacationers can opt for 7-night adventures visiting Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.

• Following a summer in the Big Apple, Adventure of the Seas will return to Galveston for the winter season to sail 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean itineraries to Cozumel and Costa Maya.

• Grandeur of the Seas will set its sights on Galveston for the summer in 2022, following the ship’s first winter season cruising from Barbados. The 4- and 5-night itineraries from the Lonestar State will visit the picturesque shores of Costa Maya and Cozumel.

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 18 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.

Royal Caribbean International is applying the recommendations of its Healthy Sail Panel of public health and scientific experts to provide a safer and healthier cruise vacation on all of its sailings. Health and safety protocols, regional travel restrictions and clearance to visit ports of call, are subject to change based on ongoing evaluation, public health standards, and government requirements. U.S. cruises and guests: For more information on the latest health and travel alerts, U.S. government travel advisories, please visit www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/itinerary-updates or consult travel advisories, warnings or recommendations relating to cruise travel on applicable government websites.