Norwegian Prima Debuts as Brand's Most In-Demand Vessel with RECORD-BREAKING sales

First of Six Next-Generation Vessels Sets Single-Best Booking Day and Best Initial Booking Week Sales in the Company's 54-Year History 

Norwegian Cruise Line's Record-Breaking Sales Demonstrate Strong Demand for Cruise Travel

MIAMI (May 17, 2021) – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, is once again breaking the boundaries of conventional cruising and vacation experiences, with the reveal of Norwegian Prima, which has become the Brand's most in-demand ship ever, with record bookings on the first day and week of sales.

With voyages beginning August 2022, Norwegian Prima, the first of six ships within NCL's all new Prima Class, will offer guests exciting itineraries, the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any new cruise ship in the contemporary and premium cruise categories, and Brand-first experiences with Ocean Boulevard, Indulge Food Hall, The Concourse, Infinity Beach and Oceanwalk.

"Every aspect of Norwegian Prima, from bow-to-stern, was conceptualized with the guest in mind," said Norwegian Cruise Line's President and CEO Harry Sommer. "With this world-class ship, we are providing our guests with more wide-open spaces, elevated service, thoughtful design and a variety of experiences that go beyond expectation. Our record-breaking sales are a clear indicator of our guests' excitement to return to the ocean and of the significant demand for a premium vacation experience."

Norwegian Prima will not only offer the largest variety of suite categories available at sea but will also boast a redefined The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s ultra-premium keycard only access ship-within-a-ship concept. The Haven will feature an expansive sundeck, a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ship's wake and an outdoor spa with a glass-walled sauna and cold room.

"Norwegian Prima is already proving to be a gamechanger for NCL," added Sommer. "Norwegian Bliss, which debuted in 2018 and boasted our biggest booking day ever during her unveiling, has been outpaced by Norwegian Prima, which has doubled the prior record. In addition, nearly 20 percent of bookings are for our Haven suites, indicating the desire for top-of-the-line experiences."

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 visit www.ncl.com.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE GOES GLOBAL TO SELECT GODMOTHER FOR MARDI GRAS, NAMING MISS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC DURING MISS UNIVERSE BROADCAST

Kimberly Jiménez to Serve as Godmother to Line’s  Newest and Most Innovative Ship, Mardi Gras, Set to Debut Later This Year

MIAMI, May 16, 2021 – With a global television audience estimated at 500 million looking on, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy presented Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Jiménez with the “Spirit of Carnival” award for embodying the company’s values of fun, friendship, diversity and inclusion during the MISS UNIVERSE broadcast, and bestowed the honor of serving as godmother to the line’s newest and most innovative ship, Mardi Gras, set to debut from Port Canaveral, Fla., later this year.

A gamechanger for the cruise industry, Mardi Gras is the first cruise ship in the Americas to be powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and the first to feature an onboard roller coaster.   As godmother, Jiménez will preside over the Mardi Gras’ official naming ceremony, continuing a long-standing maritime tradition.

Jiménez, as well as MISS UNIVERSE 2021, Miss Mexico Andrea Meza, will get the unforgettable opportunity to be among the first to sail on Mardi Gras when she begins week-long adventures from the Space Coast to the Bahamas and Caribbean – including the popular destination of Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. 

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Dominican Republic, Jiménez is a champion for at-risk youth and an advocate for adoption, volunteering for the past three years at Los Niños de Cristo orphanage, a non-profit foundation that serves abused and abandoned girls, as well as serving as a founding member of the Dominican Republic Women's Club, dedicated to providing services to indigent women suffering from breast cancer.  A survivor in every sense of the word, Jimenez and her family were left homeless due to the devastation of Hurricane Maria, underscoring her incredible perseverance and a positive, can-do attitude.   

“Kimberly is a role model for female empowerment and has a passion for so many worthwhile causes, particularly those that assist women, children and families.  It is such an honor to present Kimberly with the ‘Spirit of Carnival’ award and an even bigger thrill to announce that she’s going to be the godmother of our newest ship, Mardi Gras,” Duffy said. “Kimberly joins a group of esteemed women who have served in this time-honored role for Carnival.”

Duffy served on the selection committee for the competition, one of eight members of the all-female panel.  She said that seeing so many smart and talented women in the competition representing 74 nations was like being on board a Carnival ship, with a fleetwide team representing 120 countries from across the globe.

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor.

Azamara’s® Summer 2021 Voyages Are Now Open for Booking with New Destination Celebration℠ Experiences

Following the reveal of its health and safety protocols, the cruise line's Greece itineraries are now open for booking, featuring new onboard programming  

MIAMI, May 14, 2021 – Azamara – the boutique cruise line dedicated to Destination Immersion® experiences – is pleased to announce that bookings have opened today for the brand’s return to service, beginning August 28, 2021, with five back-to-back Greece Country-Intensive® Voyages aboard Azamara Quest®; each seven-nights in length and a total of 18-late nights in port. To coincide with the brand’s return to the high seas, Azamara is also pleased to share the launch of a brand-new, immersive onboard program for guests – Destination Celebration – the adaptation of AzAmazing Evenings®, which will bring the culture and heritage of the destination to life onboard.  

“We are excited that today marks the day that our guests can begin to plan their highly anticipated vacation and join us in exploring the world again,” said President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas. “The philosophy behind every Azamara voyage is our in-depth Destination Immersion experiences, designed to connect travelers to the heart of local culture. While the world may have changed, Azamara’s commitment to delivering experiences that connect guests to authentic culture remains intact and we are thrilled to bring the destination to life safely onboard our ships by introducing Destination Celebrations.”   

Designed with the health and safety of Azamara guests and crew in mind, Destination Celebration allows travelers to still have an immersive experience without having to step away from the comfort of their boutique hotel at sea. The new, complimentary evening events will be exclusively available to Azamara guests from 2021 through the spring of 2022 on most voyages of seven nights or longer. The Destination Celebration event in Rhodes, Greece, will feature music by Duo Violins with accompanying orchestra and a singer, as well as six Greek Gods in respective dress and insignia. In Sorrento, Italy, guests will enjoy an evening attributed to famous Italian operatic tenor, Enrico Caruso. Caruso is considered by many to be the greatest singer of all time, with a rich and powerful operatic music style like no other. 

To book one of Azamara’s Greece Country Intensive voyages, please visit: www.azamara.com/greecereturn 

For information on Azamara’s Cruise with Confidence program to ensure peace of mind when booking, please visit: www.azamara.com/cruisewithconfidence 

 About Azamara   

Azamara is an upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences. Presently with three mid-sized ships sailing to all seven continents of the world, and an additional fourth ship scheduled to join the fleet in 2022. The boutique-style ships allow them to reach marquee ports around the world and dock in smaller, less-visited hidden gems. Azamara’s commitment to creating immersive experiences allows guests to travel deeper with longer stays, more overnights, and night touring.  Guests can experience a boutique hotel at sea with inclusive amenities such as gratuities, select beverages, exclusive cultural events and more. For more information visit www.azamara.com.  

Up to 20% off on the ‘most beautiful voyage in the world’

The Northern Lights in Norway with Hurtigruten. Photo: Hege Abrahamsen

Seattle, WA (May 14, 2021) – With three-quarters of Americans ready to resume international travel and Europe about to open its borders for approved travelers, Hurtigruten Norway Coastal Express is offering up to 20% off a number of sailings between this August and May 2023 for Americans to explore the Norwegian coastline.

With 128 years experience of operating along the coast of Norway, no cruise company knows or does Norway better than Hurtigruten. One of the most spectacular coastlines in the world, Hurtigruten has operated voyages between Kirkenes above the Arctic Circle and Bergen, the country’s second-largest city, since 1893. This route is often described as “the most beautiful voyage in the world”. 

Norway is regularly on most Americans’ bucket lists, and just last month, American travelers listed seeing the Northern Lights in Northern Norway as their number one bucket list travel experience in the world, according to USTOA (the United States Tour Operators Association). Being onboard a ship is one of the best ways to experience these magical occurrences from November to March every year. To ensure that guests can cross the lights off their bucket list, Hurtigruten offers the unique Northern Lights Promise on select voyages.

The departures on sale range from six to 12 days, with the latter calling at 34 ports along the Norwegian coast and sailing past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains. Guests can enjoy the astounding Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site; the old Viking town of Trondheim, Norway’s traditional historic, religious, and cultural capital; the postcard-worthy Lofoten Islands, whose special beauty is praised as one of the most beautiful locations in the world by National Geographic; or wander through Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic Ocean, on the North Cape at the top of Scandinavia. All eligible sailings can be found at hurtigruten.com/coastal-offers/ and are valid until June 30, 2021. 

Earlier this month, Hurtigruten Norway Coastal Express announced all its seven ships will undergo one of the largest environmental upgrade in the history of European shipping, with significant green upgrades which will result in CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions being reduced by at least 25% and NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions cut by 80%.

For more information, please contact:
Anders Lindström
Head of PR & Communications, the Americas
646.944.9029 
Anders.Lindstrom@hurtigruten.com 

About Hurtigruten Norway Coastal Express – the original since 1893

Hurtigruten Norway Coastal Express – the original since 1893. Offering a unique combination of local travelers, goods, and international tourists since the very first departure almost 130 years ago. Connecting 34 communities along Norway’s rugged coastline, Hurtigruten Norway’s 7 coastal express ships takes you closer to nature and the local communities – in what is referred to as “the most beautiful voyage in the world”. 

Learn more about Hurtigruten Norway Coastal Express here.

Crystal Symphony’s New Luxury Caribbean Escapes with Departures from St. Maarten Now Open for Reservation

Reduced deposit of $100 per person for new bookings starting May 12, 2021 

Miami, May 13, 2021 – Guests can now book their Luxury Caribbean Escapes featuring departures from St. Maarten as Crystal opens reservations for the 15 recently announced Caribbean sailings. The new departures offer expanded options for Crystal guests eager to return to the peerless excellence of the World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line with the addition of 15 new Caribbean sailings departing round-trip from St. Maarten aboard Crystal Symphony this August through December.

The newly added voyages are part of Crystal Symphony’s 10-night Luxury Caribbean Escapes* and offer guests the option of cruising round-trip from either Philipsburg, St. Maarten, beginning August 2nd, or the previously announced voyages departing round-trip from St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, beginning August 5th. The addition of St. Maarten as a port of departure expands the air options for guests as major U.S. cities provide airlift into the country. All of Crystal’s 10-night Luxury Caribbean Escapes, including a holiday cruise, will explore the tropical beauty of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago**, St. Maarten, and the British Virgin Islands.

Best Available cruise fares start at $2,999 with Book Now Savings of up to $1,000 per guest and As You Wish spending credits of $200 per guest. Returning guests will enjoy double Crystal Society Savings of five percent while new to Crystal guests will save 2.5 percent. Travelers can now take advantage of a reduced deposit of just $100 per person for new bookings as of May 12, 2021, aboard Crystal Symphony’sLuxury Caribbean Escapes, with final payment due 60 days prior to departure. Single supplements for these voyages begin at just 125 percent. Guests with Future Cruise Credits and Future Cruise Payments may redeem them on these voyages.

Crystal announced in February 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+ measures, including negative COVID-19 tests for both guests and crew, reduced capacity, social distancing, mask requirements and health screening questionnaires.

Designed with inherently abundant personal and social space throughout the ship, Crystal Symphony will return to sailing with reduced capacity, increasing its social spaciousness even more. The onboard Crystal Family will welcome guests home to spacious staterooms, suites and social areas and to an experience that is punctuated by abundant choices for activities and enrichment; elegant surroundings and amenities; and most importantly, the genuine, personalized service provided by Crystal’s celebrated crew. 

A leader in unrivaled luxury cruising for 30 years, Crystal distinguishes its ships and its voyages with fine details and nuances that make a big impact for discerning travelers. Underscoring the Crystal difference is an all-inclusive experience with award-winning entertainment; diverse enrichment options; globally inspired dining, including Nobu Matsuhisa’s only sea-going restaurants; unlimited pours of fine wines, beers and premium spirits; and an unwavering standard of genuine, personal service for each guest.

*As more islands in the Caribbean begin to open, Crystal may add additional ports to the itinerary and will inform its guests and travel partners of any changes.

**Trinidad and Tobago is subject to government review with changing health and safety conditions.  

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 Insider blog, follow Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page; @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram; @crystalrivercruises on Instagram; and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises, #crystalrivercruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE PRESIDENT CHRISTINE DUFFY TO SERVE ON SELECTION COMMITTEE FOR MISS UNIVERSE COMPETITION THIS SUNDAY, MAY 16

 Inspiring Female Executive to Present ‘Spirit of Carnival’ Award to Contestant Who Represents Company’s Values of Fun, Friendship, Diversity and Inclusion

MIAMI, May 13, 2021 - Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, will serve on the selection committee of the MISS UNIVERSE Competition which takes place this Sunday, May 16, in Hollywood, Fla., and airs live on A&E’s FYI broadcast channel and Telemundo.

As president of Carnival, Duffy oversees the overall operations of the company long known as “America’s cruise line” which operates from 14 U.S. homeports, as well as Australia, carrying nearly six million guests annually on relaxing vacations to beautiful destinations worldwide.

She will be part of an all-female panel of eight judges who will determine who among 90 international contestants will earn the coveted title of MISS UNIVERSE, a global, inclusive organization that celebrates women of all cultures and backgrounds and empowers them to realize their goals through experiences that build self-confidence and create opportunities for success.

During the broadcast, Duffy will present a MISS UNIVERSE contestant with the “Spirit of Carnival” award for representing the company’s values of fun, friendship, diversity and inclusion. 

“Serving as a Miss Universe judge is not only a tremendous honor but a wonderful way to celebrate the accomplishments of so many smart and inspiring women from around the world.  There’s a synergy between Carnival and MISS UNIVERSE as our ships are filled with smiling, friendly faces from around the world,” said Duffy, who leads a diverse workforce of 40,000 shipboard and shoreside employees from more than 120 countries.  “It is also my privilege to present the ‘Spirit of Carnival’ award to a contestant who is a role model and shares our values of making others feel welcomed, valued and respected.”

An immensely global television event with an estimated audience of 500 million viewers, MISS UNIVERSE will be broadcast live in the U.S. on Sunday, May 16, at 8 p.m. EDT on A&E’s FYI broadcast channel and Telemundo. Carnival Cruise Line fans are encouraged to tune in to see Duffy present the “Spirit of Carnival” award.

Additional information on Miss Universe is available at https://www.missuniverse.com

MSC VIRTUOSA ARRIVES IN SOUTHAMPTON, READY TO RESTART CRUISING IN THE UK

• MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, MSC Virtuosa, has arrived in Southampton, her homeport for the summer, ready to restart cruising in UK on May 20

• MSC Virtuosa will embark on her maiden voyage around the British Isles

• She will become the third MSC Cruises ship back at sea, sailing 3- and 4-night mini cruises, before starting 7-night sailings around the UK

Geneva, Switzerland (May 13, 2021) – MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, has arrived in Southampton, preparing to welcome guests as the first cruise line to restart in the UK. The newest and most innovative ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet, MSC Virtuosa will embark on her maiden voyage around the British Isles on May 20.

With all of MSC Cruises’ trademark glamour and European style, MSC Virtuosa is set to bring guests an unbeatable summer vacation, with everything in one place.

Upon MSC Virtuosa’s restart, MSC Cruises will offer guests a choice of three- and four-night mini cruises starting from May 20, then from June 5, begin seven-night cruises. These week-long sailings include calls at the picturesque isle of Portland and the cultural city of Belfast in Northern Ireland, as well as offering multiple ports of embarkation including Liverpool and Greenock, close to Glasgow, Scotland, on top of Southampton.

MSC Virtuosa is one of MSC Cruises’ most innovative and environmentally advanced ships. The 19-deck ship will offer its British guests of all ages the very best of fine dining restaurants, world-class entertainment, relaxing bars and lounges, boutique shopping, spa and fitness centers, an aquapark and clubs for toddlers to teenagers. The ship’s showstopping feature is its iconic 367 ft. promenade with a stunning LED sky dome, the social heart and hub of the ship.

The brand-new MSC Starship Club will launch on MSC Virtuosa, introducing the world’s first futuristic, immersive experience at sea, MSC Starship Club will feature humanoid robotic bartender, Rob, shaking up a galactic choice of cocktails for guests.

MSC Virtuosa’s homeport for the summer will be ABP Southampton, with whom MSC Cruises recently announced a long-term partnership. The ship will initially set sail from City Cruise Terminal, before moving to embark guests from the newly-named Horizon Cruise terminal once it has opened.

MSC Virtuosa will become the third MSC Cruises ship back at sea when she departs for her maiden voyage on May 20, joining two ships already operating in the Mediterranean: MSC Seaside welcomed guests back on board last week, and MSC Grandiosa has been sailing in the Mediterranean since August 2020. All ships operate under the same industry-leading health and safety protocol, including universal testing upon embarkation, which has been developed with a Blue Ribbon Panel of experts.

OCEANIA CRUISES UNVEILS NEW OCEANIA NEXT ENHANCEMENTS TO THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

 Phase One of the Transformation Sees the Line Reveal Thoughtfully Crafted New Dining Experiences and Reimagined Menus, To Elevate Its Dining and Service Levels On Board 

Miami, May 13, 2021 - Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has announced the first in a series of inspired new product enhancements rolling out across its luxury fleet as part of its OceaniaNEXT program. With elevated dining experiences and service levels for guests, the Oceania Cruises experience will be better than ever from the first sailing on board Marina when the line resumes operations in August. OceaniaNEXT enhancements will debut aboard Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Riviera, and Sirena as each vessel returns to sailing. 

During the pause in sailing, the Oceania Cruises team has continued to invest in creative ways to evolve the onboard experience and to inspire its guests with a sweeping array of dramatic enhancements to the brand’s already renowned Finest Cuisine at Sea® and acclaimed service. Whether guests are in the mood for an elaborate dinner at Toscana, or prefer to indulge in the line’s exclusive Dom Pérignon Experience, or crave the casual comfort of tacos or fresh poke bowls, every meal on board is given the same thought, care and creativity to ensure it is as mouth-watering as it is memorable. This is just the first of many inspirational new OceaniaNEXT enhancements to be revealed over the coming months.

“These OceaniaNEXT enhancements not only elevate the guest experience, they showcase the creativity and passion our team has for crafting unique and memorable experiences for our guests,” stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises. “We’ve undertaken this ambitious brand initiative to elevate every facet of the Oceania Cruises guest experience to new levels. From thoughtfully reimagined menus to enhanced service levels to the dramatic re-inspiration of our six ships, guests will find that the Oceania Cruises experience is better than ever,” added Binder. 

The Grand Dining Room Boasts New Appetizers, Main Courses & Diverse Sunday Brunch 

In The Grand Dining Room, more than two dozen inventive new dishes have made their way onto the dinner menu. New appetizers include caramelized duck foie gras accompanied by apricot infused with Loire Valley wine, and mozzarella fior di latte panna cotta with aubergines stiletto and fried focaccia. Meanwhile, main courses range from the deliciously tantalizing French monkfish with saffron-tomato-cognac-cream sauce and wild rice, to the hearty veal piccata with sweet and sour lemon sauce, glazed pearl onions and Parisian potatoes.

Other highlights from the updated menu include:

·       Porcini mushroom risotto

·       Crispy Mediterranean vegetable tart with balsamic onion compote

·       Braised black cod, seafood emulsion, stuffed calamari and green pea purée

·       Grilled prime rib with bone marrow and rustic vegetable casserole

·       Carnaroli truffled risotto with smoked ricotta

·       Florida lobster tail with Rémy Martin cognac sauce and rice pilaf

Sunday Brunch is an elegant yet relaxed affair in The Grand Dining Room, and the new menu has been thoughtfully crafted to include a more diverse selection of international dishes as well as a wider range of healthy options. Highlights include a new Asian Noodle Bar, a gourmet Taco Corner, a prepared-to-order Pasta Station, a healthy Smoothie Bar and a Salad Bar with an extensive selection of starches, proteins, greens and raw and cooked vegetables for guests to create their own custom salad combination. 

Toscana Dinner Menu Features 21 New Dishes

Refined and romantic with a uniquely modern Italian flair, Toscana specializes in the rich and rustic regional flavors for which Italy is famous. Presented on elegant, custom-designed Versace china, masterfully prepared dishes exemplify the essence of Tuscany and celebrate Italy’s culinary passion. As part of OceaniaNEXT, the line has reimagined Toscana’s menu with 21 delectable new dishes including:

·       Sformatino di Peperoni – roasted bell pepper flan, creamy Parmesan sauce

·       Zuppa Fagioli – white bean soup with sausage and pasta

·       Tagliolini Carbonara – tagliolini, pancetta, egg yolk-Parmesan sauce

·       Agnello Arrosto – stuffed roasted lamb loin with spicy soppressata sausage

·       Il Tiramisú ai Frutti di Bosco – red berry tiramisú with mascarpone cream 

·       Tortino di Cioccolata – molten chocolate fondant with Sicilian blood orange sauce

Greater Choice and Diversity in The Terrace Café and Waves Grill

The ever-popular Terrace Café has also expanded its lunch offering to include locally sourced fish, sausages and marinated meats, including regional specialties from the ports and destinations visited. 

For more laidback fare, Waves Grill has added a fresh, prepared-to-order poke bowl station inspired by flavors from around the world including Japan, India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, North Africa, France, the United States, and Mexico. 

New Evening Canapé Choices and Elevated Service Levels

Canapés served in the lounges and bars after a day of exploring are a much-loved tradition on board Oceania Cruises. The experience now features a wider variety of selections, echoing the gourmet inspiration of the new dishes offered in The Grand Dining Room. The selections will also be presented individually to each table as part of the line’s enhanced health and safety measures. Guests in Penthouse, Oceania, Vista, and Owner’s Suites may choose from a canapé selection now including the addition of plant-based California rolls, a Mezze Platter and a Taco Trilogy. 

Service levels have also been significantly enhanced through a combination of increased staffing and implementation of a new electronic ordering system which ensures that the taking of orders, food and beverage service and table re-setting is seamlessly streamlined. This will allow restaurant staff to focus on providing the exemplary service that guests have come to know and love.

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 OceaniaNEXT

OceaniaNEXT is a sweeping array of dramatic enhancements so transformational, they are inspirational. This ambitious brand initiative will elevate every facet of the Oceania Cruises guest experience to new levels. From thoughtfully crafted new dining experiences and reimagined menus to the dramatic Re-inspiration of the brand’s six ships, guests will savor The Finest Cuisine at Sea, be pampered aboard small and luxurious ships, and be enriched through in-depth destination exploration.

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 and feature 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 nearly 60,000 berths, these brands offer itineraries to more than 490 destinations worldwide. The Company has nine additional ships scheduled for delivery through 2027, comprising of approximately 24,000 berths.

Crystal River Cruises Announces 2023 Deployment

Nearly 200 departures ranging from five to 17-nights feature options to suit every travel preference 

Popular 7-night cruises return with more than 150 departures exploring Europe’s most sought-after river destinations   

              Miami, May 12, 2021 – Crystal River Cruises announces the full 2023 deployment of its award-winning fleet, featuring 190 individual voyages exploring the majestic Danube, Rhine, and Moselle rivers along with the charming waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium. The 2023 season offers travelers a greater variety of sailing length options than ever before, with new shorter five-night escapes as well as longer 14- to 17-night combination voyages that pair classic itineraries for immersive journeys. The line’s perennially popular seven-night cruises return offering travelers 150 cruise options including the best-loved Danube and Rhine itineraries, as well as sailings featuring springtime among the tulips, and the treasures of Southeast Europe. A collection of 10-night journeys of the Rhine and Moselle river valleys, cruises to Europe’s festive Christmas markets, and special holiday sailings featuring New Year’s Eve celebrations in Vienna, Budapest and Amsterdam, round out a wealth of choices to experience Europe’s number one river cruise line. Reservations open May 18, 2021.

Crystal River Cruises’ elegant fleet offers guests an intimate experience befitting the World’s Most Luxurious River Cruise Line aboard four all-suite, all-butler, all-balcony Rhine Class ships – Crystal Bach, Crystal Debussy, Crystal Mahler and Crystal Ravel, as well as the timeless grandeur and elegance of Crystal Mozart, the most spacious river ship sailing the Danube. Voyages range from five- to 17-nights, visiting some of the most picturesque and captivating locales throughout Germany, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Switzerland, as well as southeastern Europe destinations in Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia.

              “The destinations along these rivers have fascinated travelers for centuries and continue to enchant visitors – some seemingly frozen in timeless charm and others strikingly contemporary and innovative, but all distinctly full of character, intriguing history and wonderful traditions,” said Walter Littlejohn, senior vice president and managing director of Crystal River Cruises. “Every year, we strive to create itineraries that blend both the destinations our guests love most, as well as new highlights and experiences. The 2023 deployment aboard our five beautiful river ships is designed to offer choices that will appeal to luxury travelers of all ages and interests delivered with the personalized service, culinary experiences, spacious all-suite accommodations and attention to detail only found with Crystal.

“We are seeing tremendous demand for our 2022 deployment as the pent-up desire for global travel increases and we have announced 2023 now to give luxury travelers even more options to plan their future vacations,” Littlejohn added.

Picturesque Escapes & Immersive Journeys

              New in 2023 are five-night sailings that offer travelers the relaxed and intimate experience of river cruising with shorter journeys that can be paired with optional pre- or post-cruise land programs to offer ideal ship-to-shore options. Danube Discovery aboard Crystal Ravel, cruises through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley from Vienna to Vilshofen, featuring a maiden call to explore the charms of Grein. Playgrounds of the Netherlands & Belgium aboard Crystal Mahler departs roundtrip from Amsterdam to explore the port cites and waterways of the Netherlands, from the contemporary buildings and museums of Rotterdam to the historic architectural jewels of Ghent and Antwerp. 

              For travelers interested in unique extended voyages Crystal River Cruises has combined intriguing itineraries to create spectacular immersive journeys. The 14-night Pearls of the Danube voyage aboard Crystal Ravel pairs the picturesque Wachau Valley and the iconic landmarks of Vienna and Budapest, with historic sights and natural wonders cruising through Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania, including a daylight transit through the dramatic landscapes of the Iron Gates Gorge. The 15-night Vineyards, Castles & Masterpieces sailing from Basel to Amsterdam aboard Crystal Mahler matches the charming waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium with the iconic architecture of Germany, including daylight cruising through the Middle Rhine Valley. Grand Rhine & Moselle, a 17-night sojourn aboard Crystal Mahler, combines an exploration of the quaint waterways of the Netherlands with the endlessly charming villages of the Mosel Valley Wine Region. The voyage will feature the iconic cities of Amsterdam, Cologne and Strasbourg and the breathtaking castles of these two glorious European rivers.

Popular Seven- & 10-Night Sailings

Returning to the lineup of luxury voyages are the popular seven-night Delightful Danube itineraries between Vilshofen and Budapest, offering guests the option to expand their Crystal vacation with three-night pre- or post-cruise programs to Prague. An overnight call in Vienna features an exclusive Crystal Signature evening event of art and music at the Belvedere Palace, showcasing the famed art collections of this stunning baroque landmark and its magnificent gardens overlooking the city.

For the first time ever, the popular seven-night Danube Serenade itinerary between Vienna and Budapest will sail aboard Crystal Mozart, the most spacious ship on Europe’s rivers. Guests will enjoy overnights in Vienna and Budapest, and explore the rich history of Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia, from magnificent Buda Castle to one of Austria’s oldest wine estates in Krems.

Guests have a full season of departures to choose from for the seven-night Legendary Rhine and Romantic Rhineitineraries aboard three ships with voyages between Basel and Amsterdam. Daylight cruising through the picturesque Rhine Gorge, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals fairytale castles and quaint villages amidst forested hillsides, sweeping terraced vineyards, and the towering edifice of Lorelei Rock.  Guests aboard these voyages can explore the cobbled lanes and charming quarters of Zurich’s Altstadt with an optional two-night pre- or post-cruise land program.

The 10-night Splendors of the Rhine & Moselle voyages first introduced for Crystal’s 2022 season will take guests through the Rhine Gorge past famed Lorelei Rock and through the breathtaking Mosel Wine Region, where the winding river seems to reveal a Roman castle around nearly every bend. Visits to the region’s most historically beautiful ports include overnights in Strasbourg and Mannheim (for Heidelberg), a late-night stay in Bernkastel, the charming cities of Koblenz and Cologne, and the Roman and Medieval sights of Trier, Germany’s oldest city and a trove of architectural wonders.

Tulips and Windmills is a seven-night springtime exploration of the inland waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium bookended by overnight stays in Amsterdam. Guest will experience the rich history of the region along with its natural springtime beauty and blooming Dutch tulips as the Keukenhof Gardens, the most famous and largest flower park in the world, comes alive. Pastoral landscapes and 18th century windmills set a storybook scene in Kinderdijk, Netherlands, while the city center of Hoorn belies the treasures and history of the Dutch Golden Age. 

Christmas Markets & Holiday Sailings

Crystal River Cruises 2023 itineraries include new Christmas market season options, with the seven-night Dutch & Belgian Christmas Markets aboard Crystal Bach calling in stunning Dordrecht, known as the “Venice of Holland” and host to the largest Christmas market in the Netherlands; and the 10-night Christmas Splendors of the Rhine & Moselle on Crystal Mahler visiting the sparkling markets and seasonal sites most beloved by the locals. Christmastime on the Rhine, a seven-night itinerary between Basel and Amsterdam aboard Crystal Bach and Crystal Debussy, combines the beauty of the Middle Rhine valley with visits to Germany’s traditional Christmas markets.

Crystal Ravel’s seven-night Delightful Danube Christmas sailings feature overnights in Budapest and Vienna and cruising along the lovely Wachau Valley, while Crystal Mozart’s 10-night Danube Christmas Markets voyage is bookended by overnights in Vienna, cruises the Wachau Valley, and calls in some of the loveliest cities and liveliest Christmas markets in Germany, Austria and Slovakia.

Guests aboard Crystal Ravel’s 10-night Spectacular Danube Holiday will ring in the new year in Vienna during a special three-night stay that also includes an overnight in Budapest, calls in Germany and Slovakia, and an exploration of the Wachau Valley. In Austria, guests can visit the magnificent Benedictine monastery of Melk Abbey and tour Mariendom Cathedral, Austria’s largest neo-gothic church in Linz.

Guests will celebrate New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam during a double overnight call on Holiday’s on the Rhine, a 10-night voyage aboard Crystal Debussy from Basel to Amsterdam. This romantic journey of ancient fortresses and medieval castles along the Middle Rhine Valley seems lifted from a fairy tale. Overnights in Strasbourg, France, and Mannheim, Germany, reveal UNESCO treasures and baroque palaces, while the German towns of Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel, and Cologne, teem with history, charm and remarkable architecture.

The 11-night Mozart Grand Holiday Cruise aboard Crystal Mozart celebrates New Year’s Eve and Day with a double overnight in Budapest and features three days to enjoy the magic of Vienna. Guests can explore the gem of Passau at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz Rivers, bursting with treasures from a 13-century fortress to the baroque masterpiece of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Every turn in the river brings new wonders and historic sites to behold.

In addition to optional pre- and post-hotel stays in Amsterdam, Basel, Budapest and Vienna, Crystal River Cruises offers exceptional overland journeys to Prague (from Vilshoven), Zurich (from Basel), Reims (from Trier) and Bucharest (from Giurgiu) allowing guests extended explorations of these history-rich cities featuring five-star hotels in every city.

The comprehensive roster of Crystal River Cruises’ 2023 itineraries include:

Rhine River

Legendary Rhine

Crystal Bach and Crystal Debussy (April through November), Crystal Mahler (June, August and November), 7 nights, Basel to Amsterdam

Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Mannheim, Rüdesheim, Koblenz (overnight), Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight).

Romantic Rhine

Crystal Bach (April through November), Crystal Debussy (March through November), Crystal Mahler (June, August, October and November), 7 nights, Amsterdam to Basel

Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight); Cologne, Koblenz (overnight), Rüdesheim and Mannheim, Germany; sailing the Middle Rhine Valley and Lorelei; Strasbourg, France; Basel, Switzerland.

Tulips & Windmills

Crystal Bach (April), Crystal Mahler (March and April), 7 nights, Amsterdam Roundtrip

Beginning and ending with overnights in Amsterdam, Netherlands; calling in Hoorn, Kinderdijk, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Antwerp, Ghent, Belgium; Middelburg, Netherlands.

Splendors of the Rhine & Moselle (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Mahler (April and May, July through October, plus November and December Christmas Market Cruises), 10 nights between Amsterdam and Basel

Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France (overnight on Southbound); Mannheim (overnight on Northbound), Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel (overnight on Northbound), Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight).

Rhine & Moselle Summer Escapes (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Mahler (June), 5 nights between Amsterdam and Trier

Trier (overnight on Northbound), Bernkastel, Cochem, Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight on Southbound).

Danube River

Danube Serenade (Eastbound and Westbound)

Crystal Mozart (March through November), 7 nights between Vienna and Budapest

Vienna (overnight), Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Krems, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; Budapest, Hungary (overnight).

Treasures of Southeast Europe (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Ravel (May), 7 nights between Giurgiu and Budapest

Giurgiu, Romania (overnight); Vidin, Bulgaria (overnight on Southbound); Iron Gates cruising; Belgrade and Novi Sad (overnight on Southbound), Serbia; Vukovar, Croatia; Mohacs and Budapest, Hungary (overnight on Southbound).

Delightful Danube (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Ravel (March through November), 7 nights between Budapest and Vilshofen

Budapest, Hungary (overnight); Bratislava, Slovakia; Vienna (overnight), Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Austria; sailing the Wachau Valley; Passau and Vilshofen, Germany. Southbound does not call in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Danube Discovery (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Ravel (April and May), 5 nights between Vienna and Vilshofen

Vienna (overnight), Melk, Grein (maiden call), Linz (overnight on Southbound), Austria; Passau and Vilshofen, Germany.

Holiday Sailings

NEW Dutch & Belgian Christmas Markets

Crystal Bach (December 10), 7 nights, Amsterdam Roundtrip

Amsterdam and Dordrecht, Netherlands; Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp, Belgium; Rotterdam, Netherlands.

NEW Christmas Splendors of the Rhine & Moselle (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Mahler (November 27, December 7, December 17) 10 nights between Amsterdam and Basel

Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France (overnight on Southbound); Mannheim (overnight on Northbound), Rüdesheim, Lorelei cruising on Southbound, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel (overnight on Northbound), Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight).

Danube Christmas Dreams

Crystal Mozart (November 25), 7 nights, Budapest to Vienna

Budapest, Hungary (overnight); Bratislava, Slovakia; Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Krems, Vienna (overnight), Austria.

Danube Christmas Markets

Crystal Mozart (December 2, December 12), 10 nights, Vienna Roundtrip

Beginning and ending with overnights in Vienna, calling in Melk, Linz, Austria (overnight); Passau (overnight), Vilshofen, Germany; Krems, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia.

Delightful Danube Christmas (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Ravel (November 25, December 2, December 9, December 16), 7 nights between Budapest and Vilshofen

Budapest, Hungary (overnight); Bratislava, Slovakia; Vienna (overnight), Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Austria; Passau and Vilshofen, Germany. Southbound does not call in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Christmas Time on the Rhine (Northbound and Southbound)

Crystal Bach (November 26, December 3), Crystal Debussy (November 25, December 2, December 9, December 16), 7 nights between Basel and Amsterdam

Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Mannheim, Rüdesheim, Koblenz (overnight), Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (overnight).

Holidays on the Rhine

Crystal Debussy (December 23), 10 nights, Basel to Amsterdam

Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France (overnight); Mannheim (overnight), Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel, Cologne, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands (two overnights including New Year’s Eve).

When reservations for Crystal River Cruises’ 2023 voyages open May 18, 2021, travelers will benefit from 2-for-1 cruise fares from $2,799 per guest and up to $2,000 Book Now Savings per guest, ensuring the best fares available for those who plan ahead and book early. 

Together, the Crystal River Cruises fleet comprises the most spacious and luxurious ships sailing Europe’s rivers with generously sized guest suites, expansive social spaces, open-air Vista Decks and the highest crew to guest ratio at 1 to 1.55.Crystal Mozart sets the standard for space and is the only river ship to feature a wrap-around Promenade Deck, the largest onboard spa, two onboard fitness centers, four restaurants and four lounges.

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

All Crystal’s River ships feature private butler service in every room category, king-sized beds, Caudalie amenities, robes and slippers, and wall-mounted flat-screen HD TVs. Additional enticing features include Michelin-inspired cuisine in multiple, open-seating eateries: the elegant Waterside Restaurant, namesake Bistro cafés, Blue (on Crystal Mozart) and the exclusive Vintage Room; and the Palm Court for entertainment, enrichment presentations and sweeping views of the riverside scenery. Crystal’s attention to detail reaches ashore, as guests are transported on the days’ adventures in luxury motor coaches equipped with complimentary water and Wi-Fi for added convenience and comfort.

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 and 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 visitwww.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who subscribe to the Crystal Insider blog, follow Crystal Cruises’ Facebook page; @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram; @crystalrivercruises on Instagram; and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises, #crystalrivercruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal.

Princess Cruises Cancels Select Cruise Vacations In Mexico, California Coast, Caribbean and Mediterranean

Alaska Sailings Held for Possible Cruise Restart in United States   

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 12, 2021) – While Princess Cruises continues to work with various government and port authorities to finalize its additional plans for return to cruising and due to ongoing international travel restrictions, the company is cancelling the following cruise vacations:

• California Coast and Mexico sailings on Ruby Princess through August 21, 2021

• Caribbean sailings on Caribbean Princess through August 21, 2021

• Remaining 2021 Mediterranean season on Enchanted Princess

Princess continues its discussion with various United States and Canadian government officials to try to preserve a portion of the Alaska 2021 cruise season. 

“We continue to have constructive discussions with the CDC but still have many questions that remain unanswered. We are working diligently to resume sailing in the U.S. and meet the CDC guidelines,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruisespresident. “We know our guests are just as eager as we are to begin sailing, and we appreciate their patience as we get close to resuming cruising.”   

For guests booked on a cancelled cruise, Princess will offer to move guests to a choice of an equivalent cruise in 2021 or 2022. The rebooking process will have the added benefit of protecting the guests’ 2021 fare on their replacementcruise. Alternatively, guests can choose a future cruise credit (FCC) equivalent to 100% of the cruise fare paid plus an additional non-refundable bonus FCC equal to 10% of the cruise fare paid (minimum $25 USD) or a full refund to the original form of payment.    

Requests must be received through this online form by June 15, 2021 or guests will automatically receive the FCC option. FCCs can be used on any cruises booked by and sailing by December 31, 2022.   

Princess will protect travel agent commission on bookings that were paid in full in recognition of the critical role they play in the cruise line’s business and success.  

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