Azamara® Announces Name of Its Fourth Ship, Azamara Onward℠

Reflects the Start of a New Beginning as Independent Brand and Cruise Company 

MIAMI, March 19, 2021 – Azamara, the upmarket, boutique cruise line dedicated to Destination Immersion® experiences today announced the name and vessel handover of its new ship, Azamara Onward. The vessel handover, which took place on March 15, 2021, coincides with Azamara’s transition into an independent brand and cruise company.  

“Today marks a new beginning for Azamara, as we increase our capacity and begin our journey as an independent cruise company. Our beautiful new ship can access smaller ports and allow us to bring our guests to even more destinations,” said President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas. “When selecting a unique name, we realized our fourth ship marks the start of a new adventure and we chose a name that celebrates the bright future ahead for the brand, our guests, and the industry as a whole.” 

The brand has elected the name Azamara Onward, which represents moving forward in space or time. The name is meant to evoke feelings of resilience, positivity, and the endless possibilities of the future. As a whole, the name reflects the brand’s trajectory and journey to the next chapter.  

“Azamara has a bright future and is positioned to continue growing as an independent company,” added Orlando Ashford, Executive Chairman of Azamara. “We can’t wait to welcome back our loyal customers, as well as those new to the brand, with our expanded fleet offering more unique Destination Immersion programming and itineraries.”  

Azamara Onward will join the brand’s existing fleet: Azamara Pursuit®, Azamara Journey®, and Azamara Quest®. The newly purchased vessel, currently docked in Civitavecchia, will receive an extensive renovation to reflect the Azamara brand. Azamara Onward is scheduled to sail for its inaugural season around Europe in 2022.  

Visit www.azamara.com/onward to learn more 

MSC CRUISES TO RESTART OPERATIONS IN THE UK

Cruise line to offer British vacationers a range of summer sailings around the UK

Cruises open to British guests of all ages and to include protected ashore excursions

All departures available for both vaccinated and non-vaccinated British guests

Geneva, Switzerland (March 19, 2021) — MSC Cruises has announced that it will offer a series of mini and week-long cruises around the UK for British guests only that will include protected shore excursions for 7-night sailings.

All voyages will welcome British families and guests of all ages — including those who have already received their vaccine against COVID-19 as well as those are still awaiting vaccination.

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises said, “Our experience of sailing safely and responsibly since August last year in the Mediterranean, under our industry-leading protective health and safety protocol, has given us a great deal of knowledge and data about safe cruises. Thanks to a protocol designed to be adapted to reflect the evolution of the pandemic ashore, we have carried more than 50,000 guests to-date — on cruises to Italy, Malta and Greece — who can testify to the experience of having an enjoyable holiday that catered for their wellbeing both onboard our ships and also during our pioneering protected shore excursions.”

“Following the initial phase of our restart in the Mediterranean, the next logical step for us is to make our experience available to British holidaymakers, who are passionate about cruising, as the UK plans to open up domestic travel in the second half of May.

“We also remain confident that we will soon be able to welcome British guests back on board one of our ships further afield, once current international travel restrictions are lifted and more of our ships will have restarted across the Mediterranean as well as other areas traditionally favored by the British.”

All guests will receive an antigen test prior to embarkation, while non-vaccinated guests will also be required to show proof of negative test done within 72 hours prior to embarkation. Other pre-boarding and on-board measures will also apply to both guests and crew, in line with MSC Cruises’ health and safety protocol.

The protocol, which currently applies to MSC Cruises’ ships sailing in Europe, was developed in 2020 with input from international health experts — including MSC Cruises’ ‘COVID-19 Blue-Ribbon Expert Group’ — and in close cooperation with relevant national and regional health, transport and safety authorities throughout Europe.

All departures, starting from May 20, will embark from Southampton, with details on other embarkation ports in the UK to be announced soon. In the U.S., MSC Cruises will only restart operations when the time is right, following approval by the CDC and other relevant authorities across the region in observance of their requirements and guidelines.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE, JUST GOODS, INC. AND THE WILL & JADA SMITH FAMILY FOUNDATION DONATE MUCH-NEEDED DRINKING WATER TO THOSE IMPACTED BY SEVERE STORMS

– Truckloads of JUST Water Delivered to 17 Feeding America Member Food Banks and Other Nonprofit Organizations Located in Areas Severely Impacted by Recent Storms –

MIAMI (MARCH 18, 2021) – Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovator in global cruise travel, in partnership with JUST® Goods, Inc. and The Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation, joined efforts in a multi-city donation by providing JUST Water to 17 Feeding America member food banks and other nonprofit organizations in the U.S. located in areas ravaged by severe storms. 

The organizations provided 16 truckloads - more than 532,000 responsibly packaged, plant-based cartons of JUST Water - to benefit people effected by the extreme weather.

“We were so saddened to hear about the immense impact to those devastated by the unprecedented storms this year,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are happy that with the support of our team members and partners, we’re able to help by providing much needed water to communities in need.”

“JUST is humbled to be able to support communities struggling with access to fresh water after the recent storms that hit Texas and Gulf states. It’s our highest definition of partnership to work alongside Norwegian Cruise Line and The Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation to make sure people who need water have access to it. We’re so proud of the water we source and, in this moment, to put it to the best use possible,” said Kara Rubin, vice president of brand & product strategy at JUST Goods, Inc. 

The joint efforts provided water to the following food banks and nonprofits across the Southern U.S.:

• Houston Food Bank (Houston, Texas)

• Friendship West Baptist Church (Dallas, Texas)

• Austin Disaster Relief Network (Austin, Texas)

• North Texas Food Bank (Plano, Texas)

• South Texas Food Bank (Laredo, Texas)

• San Antonio Food Bank (San Angelo, Texas)

• Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, Inc. (Pharr, Texas)

• East Texas Food Bank (Tyler, Texas)

• West Texas Food Bank (Odessa, Texas)

• Southeast Texas Food Bank (Beaumont, Texas)

• God's Pantry Food Bank, Inc. (Prestonsburg, Ky)

• Mississippi Food Network (Jackson, Miss)

• Boys and Girls Club of Central MS (Jackson, Miss

• New Horizon Church (Jackson, Miss)

• Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana (Monroe, La)

• SH Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana (New Orleans, La)

• Food Bank of Central Louisiana (Alexandria, La)

"Our hearts go out to all the people that have been impacted by the brutal storms that have recently overwhelmed Texas and our Gulf states,” Jana Babatunde-Bey, president & CEO of the Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation. “WJSFF's community partners on the ground have expressed immediate and long-term challenges with facilitating access to clean water, food and housing supplies to those most in need. We hope that this contribution can provide some relief and encourage others to send support as well.  We are grateful for our partnership with JUST and Norwegian Cruise Line to provide these much-needed resources.”

 This latest collaboration follows the recent effort between Norwegian Cruise Line and JUST® Goods, Inc., to support the worldwide generosity movement GivingTuesday.  The cruise line donated a case of JUST Water to local food banks in Miami and New York City for every case purchased through the JUST Goods, Inc. online store during the month of December. The joint effort resulted in the delivery of nearly 150,000 JUST Water cartons into the hands of those who need it most with donations benefitting Feeding South Florida, City Harvest New York and Food Bank for New York City.

 “Feeding America member food banks are on the ground meeting the needs of communities impacted by disasters,” said Liz Baldridge, managing director of manufacturing food industry partnerships at Feeding America. “We are incredibly grateful to JUST Goods, Inc. and Norwegian Cruise Line for their generous support of local food banks.  This critical donation will help people when they need it most.”

 For more information on how you can support efforts benefiting local Feeding America member food banks, please visit www.FeedingAmerica.org.

 For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line ships and their itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visitwww.ncl.com.

 About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 54 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 17 contemporary ships sail to over 300 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize.  Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, mini-suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the media center and follow Norwegian Cruise line on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter and Snapchat @CruiseNorwegian. 

About JUST Goods, Inc.

JUST Goods, Inc. is a global consumer goods company dedicated to producing responsibly sourced, sustainably packaged products.  The company's first product, JUST Water, is 100% spring water ethically sourced from Upstate New York, packaged in a bottle made of 88% renewable resources. A Certified B-Corp, the company's mission to create environmental and social value along the supply chain extends to partnerships with environmental non-profits, key members of the science and innovation community, as well as university collaborations, hospitality partnerships, event alliances and community projects. JUST Water is now being produced in three countries - the US, the United Kingdom and Australia.  JUST products can be found in a growing number of grocery retail locations, hotels, schools, cultural locations and entertainment venues worldwide.  For more information please visit  www.justwater.com.

About The Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation

The Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation (WJSFF) is a non-profit organization that sits at the convergence of philanthropy, media and social impact. We are an incubator and accelerator that ignites the next generation of big ideas, cutting-edge artists, thought leaders, change-makers and social innovators. Together with grantees and partners, we invest in organizations and initiatives that empower traditionally overlooked communities and affect real change. Join us at www.wjsff.org.

Crystal Serenity’s New Luxury Bahamas Escapes Now Open for Reservations

MIAMI, MARCH 18, 2021 – Guests can now book their Luxury Bahamas Escapes voyages as Crystal opens reservations for the recently announced Crystal Serenity cruises. The award-winning luxury ship will sail seven-night voyages round-trip from Nassau or Bimini beginning July 3, 2021 and July 4, 2021 respectively, becoming the first cruise ship to home port in The Bahamas and return to cruising the Americas. The all-Bahamas itineraries eliminate the risk of border closures between countries and offer close-to-home options for North American travelers eager to begin exploring again. As the voyages mark the first return to service for Crystal’s Ocean fleet, the partnership with The Bahamas is also an important step toward reinvigorating tourism and support for the islands’ local communities, which have been greatly impacted by the global pandemic. The sailings showcase the natural beauty and warm hospitality, as well as adventure-rich and culturally fascinating pursuits in each destination, including some not accessible to larger cruise ships.

Cruise fares for the new Luxury Bahamas Escapes cruises start at $1,999 per guest, including $500 Book Now Savings and $500 air savings along with Best Available Savings by category. Guests will receive a $125 per person As You Wish shipboard credit with Crystal Society Savings doubling to five percent; new-to-Crystal guests saving 2.5 percent; and solo fares starting at just 125 percent. The company’s Crystal Confidence program offers a no-money-down deposit window until April 5, 2021, with a reduced deposit of just 15 percent due at that time as part of its Easy Book program. Travelers with Future Cruise Credits and Future Cruise Payments may redeem them on these sailings. 

For an extraordinary value, guests can extend their cruise vacations by choosing Crystal’s Extended Land and Hotel Programs feature that carefully selected shoreside partners to ensure a seamless vacation from ship to shore. For Crystal Serenity’s new voyages, these include Nassau’s SLS Baha Mar and Hilton Resorts World Bimini, where guests will enjoy luxury accommodations and daily breakfast, as well as the stylish amenities of each. Guests can also indulge in spa days, golf rounds, casino nights and a host of dining experiences in each tropical paradise. The pre- and post-cruise hotel programs in Nassau and Bimini start at $359 and $299 per guest, respectively, including transfers between Crystal Serenity, the resort properties and the airports and all taxes and resort fees.

Crystal recently announced that guests must be fully inoculated with a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to boarding any Crystal ship. This new requirement is in addition to existing, comprehensive Crystal Clean+ 4.1 measures, including negative COVID-19 tests for both guests and crew, reduced capacity, social distancing, nimble mask policy and health screening questionnaires.

A leader in unrivaled luxury cruising for 30 years, Crystal Cruises distinguishes its ships and its voyages with fine details and nuances that make a big impact for discerning travelers. All-inclusive entertainment; diverse enrichment options; globally-inspired dining, including Nobu Matsuhisa’s only seagoing restaurants; unlimited pours of fine wines, beers and premium spirits and an unwavering standard of genuine, personal service for each guest underscores the Crystal difference. Crystal Serenity's social spaciousness will be further increased with a commitment to reduced guest capacity when the ship resumes sailing.

About Crystal

Only the world-renowned Crystal Experience offers an unwavering, unparalleled standard of excellence and luxury across four distinct cruising options: Crystal Cruises, the World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line; Crystal River Cruises, the World’s Most Luxurious River Cruise Line; Crystal Yacht Cruises, offering boutique luxury and bold adventure in the world’s most elite harbors; and Crystal Expedition Cruises, taking Crystal’s acclaimed elegance to the farthest reaches of the world. Crystal has been recognized with top honors in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for a record 27 years including, in 2019, for Best Medium-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Cruises, Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for Crystal Yacht Cruises and Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises. Crystal was also voted “World’s Best” by the readers of Travel + Leisure for 24 years, including, in 2017 and 2020, Best River Cruise Line for Crystal River Cruises; and won “Cruise Line of the Year” and “Most Luxurious Guest Experience” by Virtuoso for 2018 & 2019. Crystal is proud to be a platinum partner of the advisors of ASTA.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel advisor, call 888.799.2437, or visit www.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who subscribe to the Crystal Insiderblog, follow Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page; @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram; @crystalrivercruises on Instagram; and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises, #crystalrivercruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal.

PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES UNVEILS RENOVATED M/S PAUL GAUGUIN

BELLEVUE, Wash. – March 17, 2021 – Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, is pleased to announce a ship renovation, featuring luxurious enhancements, that took place during The Gauguin’s drydock ending on March 9th in Singapore.

The vision of the renovation was to enhance The Gauguin’s elegant Polynesian signature with a chic and fresh style to enrich guests’ experience sailing the islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and the South Pacific.

Large Environmental Upgrades in line with Paul Gauguin Cruises’ Values

Minimizing the impact on the environment is one of the highest priorities of the company. In 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises took two major measures in this field. The line completely eliminated the use of heavy fuel oil by using a much cleaner fuel (LS MGO – Low-Sulphur Marine Gas Oil) and also committed to offsetting 150 percent of its carbon emissions. The Gauguin’s most recent environmental upgrades follow this path and include water treatment and consumption optimization along with energy-saving initiatives.

An Empowering Experience Dedicated to Guests’ Highest Expectations

The Gauguin is outfitted with a look designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel that evokes South Seas elegance and the storied islands that the iconic ship sails. The refurbishment enhances the historical interior of the vessel made of warm and dark woodworks and strengthens the local identity. The fresh palette incorporates lagoon shades, a wide range of green and natural tones, warm color touches, organic patterns and woven textiles. Exotic panoramas and traditional artwork transports guests into the local environment. All The Gauguin’s staterooms and suites, as well as the public spaces, were renovated: Le Grand Salon, three restaurants, Piano Bar, La Palette Lounge, Spa and Salon, Boutique, Pool Deck, and Reception area.

Ongoing Onboard Upgrades

To accompany The Gauguin’s renovation, amenities were enhanced for a full guest experience. Guests will be able to enjoy complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi and a virtual museum of over 150 paintings of artist Paul Gauguin during their voyage. These new enhancements will provide guests of The Gauguin an even more luxurious, all-inclusive experience, which encompasses dining in all three of the ship’s restaurants and 24-hour room service; complimentary beverages including select wines, beer, and spirits; and onboard gratuities for room stewards and dining staff.

The Gauguin’s Polynesian Signature

Paul Gauguin Cruises was created to provide enjoyable, meaningful, and authentic experiences with the communities, cultures, and natural wonders that make Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific so alluring. Every detail of The Gauguin’s renovations reflect her home including the ship’s décor, artwork, special Polynesian dishes in the restaurants, enrichment programming, and cultural activities aboard led by Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, the ship’s troupe of Tahitian ambassadors and entertainers.

Itineraries following the renovations include: 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; 7-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands voyages.  Guests have exclusive access to the line’s private island Motu Mahana, and a private beach in Bora Bora. Paul Gauguin Cruises offers a wide range of outdoor activities embracing the natural wonders of the South Pacific such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and SCUBA diving excursions.

For more information on Paul Gauguin Cruises, or to check cruise fares, please contact a Travel Advisor, call 800-848-6172, or visit www.pgcruises.com.

STEALING THE SPOTLIGHT, ROYAL CARIBBEAN REVEALS NEW WEST COAST ADVENTURES FROM LOS ANGELES

Navigator of the Seas to call Hollywood Home, Offering Short Cruises to Southern California and Baja California, Mexico

MIAMI, March 17, 2021 – After a decade-long hiatus, Royal Caribbean International will once again call Hollywood home starting in June 2022, casting Navigator of the Seas as a “series regular” that will sail from Los Angeles. The amplified ship will broaden the cruise line’s West Coast offerings, sailing 3-, 4- and 5-night itineraries to Catalina Island, California and Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – plus, select winter holiday 7-night sailings will feature overnights in the popular resort city. Royal Caribbean’s new year-round adventures from LA will open for sale the week of March 29, 2021.

“California was calling us home once again, and what better way to reintroduce Royal Caribbean than to bring our next-level cruise vacations to the City of Angels and make it a year-round adventure starting just in time for summer,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We’re excited to return to Los Angeles to add bigger, bolder vacation options along the West Coast. With a ship like Navigator of the Seas, complete with waterslides, activities from day to night and a lineup of restaurants, bars and lounges, friends and families alike are in for a memorable getaway.”

After a $115 million amplification in 2019, Navigator brings star power that will thrill guests with its reimagined Caribbean poolscape anchored by the lively three-level bar The Lime & Coconut; two daring waterslides that cantilever over the edges of the ship – The Blaster aqua coaster, the longest waterslide at sea, and Riptide, the industry’s only headfirst mat racer; the first standalone blow-dry bar at sea, To Dry For; elevated nightlife and dining, and transformed spaces that each are dedicated to kids and teens. The winning combination of these thrilling features and activities alongside Royal Caribbean favorites – against the backdrop of Hollywood Hills – will make for a new short getaway, over the week or weekend, that makes the most of every minute for vacationers of all ages.

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.

SH Minerva reveals her cabin designs as structure completed ahead of schedule

First cultural expedition cruise ship in new-build fleet maintains ambitious momentum

Nicosia, Cyprus,Today, Wednesday the 17 of March, Swan Hellenic announced that the hull sections and deck modules of its first vessel, the purpose-designed cultural expedition cruise ship SH Minerva, had all been completed in advance of its ambitious schedule. Marking the occasion, the company released a time-lapse video of the work at Helsinki Shipyard that shows the ship assuming its graceful final form.

Now that the structure is complete, the cabins are already taking shape, as also revealed online today, showing the Scandi-chic comfort, rich natural materials and spacious open perspectives out to sea of the elegant designs by Tillberg of Sweden.

Balcony Lounge

The complete vision can be explored in an impressive virtual tour video released late last year.

The creatively conceived new ship represents the next generation of polar expedition vessels, designed for worldwide cruising with a strong focus on high-latitude areas. SH Minerva is being fitted with a 5-megawatt diesel-electric propulsion system with selective catalytic reduction, ready to receive 3-megawatt max. battery package and PC5 ice-strengthened hull and with Safe Return to Port notation. At 113 m, the 10,500-ton vessel has been specially designed to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on the planet.

Balcony Bathroom

Providing spacious 5-star accommodation for 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the vast majority with large balconies, SH Minerva will be operated by an onboard team of 120 to provide the highest levels of personal service.

Esko Karvonen, CEO of Helsinki Shipyard Inc. remarked: “We are very proud of the smooth progress made on SH Minerva, helped by its outstanding design. It is an inspiring journey to work on the remarkable first three vessels for the iconic Swan Hellenic and we are sure the guests who explore the world aboard them will also feel that.”

“We’re delighted by our partners outstanding work as we take Swan Hellenic into this exciting next chapter and look forward to meeting you on board when we head to Antarctica in November 2021” said Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito. “Join us to see what others don’t!”

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.

Credit: Stockmann Helsinki Center, in providing props for use in the photoshoot.

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

or call +44 (0) 207 846 0271

VIKING ANNOUNCES MAY 2021 RESTART OF LIMITED OPERATIONS WITH DOMESTIC UK VOYAGES

 Three Special Ocean Sailings for UK Guests Will Explore England’s Scenic Shores

Los Angeles (March 16, 2021) – Viking® (www.viking.com) announced today that it will restart limited operations in May 2021 with three special sailings along the coast of England. Available exclusively for UK residents, the new eight-day ocean itinerary—England’s Scenic Shores—will sail roundtrip from Portsmouth, with departures on May 22, May 29 and June 5, 2021. Guests on the England’s Scenic Shores itinerary will be among the first to sail on board Viking’s newest ocean ship,Viking Venus®, which will be delivered in April. Pre-registration for England’s Scenic Shores is currently open only to Viking’s loyal past guests; more details about the voyages will be released—and reservations will be available to all UK residents—in due course.

Viking was the first cruise line to suspend operations at the beginning of the pandemic, and today’s update about the official restart was triggered because the UK Government recently signalled that it will allow the resumption of domestic cruises beginning in May 2021. All other previously scheduled Viking sailings through May 31, 2021 remain cancelled.

              “We welcome the UK Government’s support for the return of safe domestic cruises as an important component in the travel industry’s recovery. In recognition of this support, and to celebrate the fact we have a British godmother—the esteemed broadcaster and journalist Anne Diamond—we have chosen to name our new ship, Viking Venus, in the UK on May 17,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We are in a position to restart operations quickly and to start sailing again in May because we have kept our ships crewed during warm lay-up throughout the past 12 months. We have been implementing our additional protocols, including daily quick and easy non-invasive saliva PCR tests for our crew, for almost six months now. With our new protocol enhancements in place, we believe there will be no safer way to travel the world than on a Viking voyage and we look forward to welcoming UK guests back on board very soon.”

             Those who sail these new voyages will also experience Viking’s industry-leading health and safety program. Grounded in scientific research, the Viking Health & Safety Program was developed in partnership with an international team of medical advisors, including Raquel C. Bono, M.D., Viking’s Chief Health Officer. Dr. Bono is a board-certified trauma surgeon and retired Vice Admiral of the United States Navy Medical Corps—and most recently led Washington State’s medical and healthcare systems response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a full-scale laboratory installed on every Viking ocean ship, all guests and crew will receive daily quick and easy non-invasive saliva PCR tests. New air purification technology has also been installed on all Viking ships, which have always featured independent air handling units for all guest staterooms. And additional health checks, sanitization and physical distancing measures will provide further protection for Viking guests and crew at all points of the journey. A complete overview of the Viking Health & Safety Program can be found at: www.viking.com/health-safety.

OCEANIA CRUISES WELCOMES “VISTA” TO ITS ACCLAIMED FLEET

Oceania Vista in Monte Carlo

New Ship to Set Sail in 2023 Represents a “View to the Future”

MIAMI, FL, March 16, 2021 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, introduced Vista to the world today, naming the first of two new 1,200-guest Allura Class ships that are being constructed by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. The luxury vessel, the seventh for the line, will set sail in 2023, followed by a sister ship in 2025.  

Named to reflect the dawn of a new age in travel, Vista will exemplify all the hallmarks of the Oceania Cruises experience that guests have come to expect. A marvel in the making, Vista will deliver The Finest Cuisine at Sea, exceptionally personalized service with two staff members for every three guests, a warm and welcoming ambiance as a result of the ship’s captivating residential furnishings, and introduce several unique firsts for the brand in the realms of dining and guest experience.

“Oceania Cruises is an innovative and ever-evolving brand. We are always looking over the horizon, and Vista represents our view to the future,” stated Bob Binder, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises.

Consumers and travel advisors can expect to be wowed by the dramatic and glamorous public spaces such as The Grand Dining Room, which soars almost two decks in height and pays homage to the “beautiful age” of early 20th-century Parisian society through its contemporary interpretation of Belle Époque.

Vista’s Grand Dining Room illustrates the fresh, alluring architectural style that defines the ship.

Vista’s nine additional best-in-class culinary experiences, luxurious signature public spaces, and spacious, residentially inspired suites and staterooms will be revealed starting in May 2021, with her inaugural voyages opening for sale in September 2021.

Vista represents not just a view to the future for the Oceania Cruises brand, but also the unique vision of the company’s thousands of officers and crew who played a pivotal role in the design of the ship and helped shepherd it from concept to design to reality.

“Our officers and crew are always bringing great new ideas to the forefront and then implementing them. More than any other part of the Oceania Cruises organization, we owe our success to our onboard teams. They are the ones who made Vista possible, and it is a credit to them, these true visionaries of the seven seas, that we name the ship for them, in their honor,” added Binder.

Currently under construction by Fincantieri S.p.A. in Italy, Vista will sail her first commercial voyage in early 2023. Measuring approximately 67,000 gross registered tons, the ship will accommodate 1,200 guests and be staffed by 800 officers and crew, offering industry-leading space and staff-to-guest ratios. An unnamed sister ship will debut in 2025.

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 seven 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.

With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

About Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) is a leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. With a combined fleet of 28 ships with approximately 59,150 berths, these brands offer itineraries to more than 490 destinations worldwide. The Company has nine additional ships scheduled for delivery through 2027.

Can't travel with your own dog? No problem.

Truffle hunting with dogs in Italy with Contiki

Combining his passions for nature, animals and cooking, Matteo has been a professional truffle hunter for twelve years and he welcomes  Contiki travelers to the beautiful Villa Clodia in Bracciano, just 30kms north of Rome, for a two-night stay on this NEW truffle hunting short breakin Italy. With his trusty pups leading the charge sniffing out truffles, Matteo and his guests will enjoy a forage in the woods, two organic cookery classes and meals (with wine) using the spoils from the forest, and plenty of free time to potter in the town or relax in the expansive grounds and pool at the villa. 

Rescue dog walking in LA

On Contiki’s Best of USA trip (a 13-day trip that takes in four of the USA’s must-see cities – LA, Las Vegas, Miami and New York), travelers get to take foster dogs out for a walk in the trendy Venice beach area of Los Angeles. Walking with one of the co-founders of Free Animal Doctor—a non-profit animal welfare organization – the aim is to give the rescue dogs the daily exercise they need while improving their socialization and chances of being seen and adopted. There are plenty of photo spots along the way, starting with a leisurely stroll along the canals, then along the boardwalk to see the famous Venice Beach sign, the "Touch of Venice" mural, the skate park on the beach and more. It’s a fun day out for both dogs and walkers, who get to see the city in a different way – and dog treats, leads, water bowls etc. are all provided of course. A picture below as an illustration but I am sure more ‘professional’ ones can be tracked down

Meeting champion husky dog racers in Norway

On Insight Vacations Grand Scandinavia trip (which takes in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland over 20 days) guests visit a working husky dog farm in the town of Alta within the Arctic circle in Norway. There they meet Trine Lyrek, a champion dog sledder, and her Alaskan huskies, learning about the dogs and what it takes to compete in Arctic dog sled races. Guests can spend some time playing with these adorable pups, that may grow to be the best racing dogs in the country. This is part of a wider trip that also takes in the best of Scandinavia, for example the fjords and a stop at mainland Europe's most northern point, where the sun never sets. Stand near the fence of the towering cliffs, dramatically rising out of the sea and it feels as if you are on the edge of the world – and to make the moment even more special you’ll be served a glass of champagne. Here’s some pictures of husky dogs (disclaimer, these aren’t official pics from our brand, I’ll need to track some down more for you if you’re keen)

Irish wolfhounds at Ashford Castle

And finally, for a spot of luxury, the glorious Ashford Castle in County Mayo in the west of Ireland has a pair of wolfhounds – Garvan and Cronan - that guests can meet and walk. Every day for an hour or so in the morning they come to the castle’s Oak Hall to say hello to the guests, and then guests are also able to take them for a walk in the 350-acre estate, which has a huge lake and plenty of woodland and paths to explore. Not just about dogs of course, the castle has an award-winning spa, an indoor cinema, underground wine cellars for private dining, three restaurants, a museum (the castle was once home to the Guinness family and has welcomed royalty, stars of stage and screen, sporting legends and more) and some stunning bedrooms. Outdoors it offers falconry, watersports, tree climbing, zip wiring, horseriding, cycling and more…). Check out the dogs’ Instagram account in the link above and also some pictures of the castle below.