Crystal Endeavor’s New Autumn Expedition to Iceland & Norway Now Open for Reservations

Miami, May 20, 2021 – Guests can now book Crystal Endeavor’s new 10-night Journey of Vikings: Iceland & Norway from Reykjavík to Tromsø, September 5 – 15, 2021, as Crystal opens reservations for this up-close destination expedition exploring Iceland’s “Lands of Fire and Ice” and the breathtaking fjords of Norway. A bold new itinerary for Crystal Endeavor’s inaugural season, Journey of Vikings: Iceland & Norway showcases Icelandic wonders including geothermal springs, waterfalls, whale havens and bird colonies; the majestic fjords, glaciers, and picturesque villages of Norway; and the chance to explore the Arctic Circle, land of the midnight sun. Crystal’s new German-engineered, precision-designed expedition ship features industry-leading space and service ratios, a state-of-the-art ship with signature spaces designed for wilderness viewing, and unrivaled destination immersion with onboard enrichment from an expert Expedition Team and shoreside explorations with Zodiac launches directly from the ship.

Crystal Endeavor’s upcoming launch and inaugural season has been met with incredible excitement and demand, with 50 percent of capacity for its recently announced Luxury Iceland Expeditions reserved within the first 24 hours of its release.

Best Available cruise fares for Journey of Vikings: Iceland & Norway start at $13,999 per guest, including limited-time Book Now Savings of $3,000 and As You Wish shipboard credits of $300 per guest. Returning guests will enjoy double Crystal Society Savings of five percent, while new-to-Crystal guests will save 2.5 percent on their voyage, with solo fares starting at just 150 percent. Guests who book back-to-back voyages comprising the August 26, September 5, September 15 and September 28 cruises will also receive five percent cruise fare savings. Travelers with Future Cruise Credits and Future Cruise Payments may redeem them on this itinerary. Guests will also enjoy reduced deposits of 15 percent and an extended final payment date of 60 days prior to sailing providing flexibility and ease in the return to travel.

Built at MV WERFTEN in Stralsund, Germany, part of a family of shipyards known for their passenger ship, icebreaker and private yacht building expertise, Crystal Endeavor will be the fastest, most powerful and most spacious expedition ship in the industry, with a Polar Class 6 (PC6) classification that enables her to sail in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

The 20,200-GRT vessel is designed to the highest standards of renowned German engineering and, with her responsive, agile maneuverability, safety and technical capabilities, the yacht is akin to a finely tuned German-built elite sports car for seakeeping (like Porsche, a fast, smooth, powerful ride) and little vibration (like Mercedes).

Crystal Endeavor’s luxurious design will offer discerning travelers elegantly casual, expansive private and public spaces with 100 gross tons per person and 10,000 cubic feet per guest for a passenger space ratio of more than 100. The ship accommodates just 200 guests with a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio delivering the personal and genuine service for which Crystal is known. Accommodations are elegantly appointed retreats for guests after days full of exploration, with every suite offering private butler service.

Throughout the ship, Crystal hallmarks will accent guests’ onboard experience: Michelin-inspired dining options including Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma & Sushi Bar, Prego, 24-hour room service and the Vintage Room experience; spacious social spaces; the only casino on an expedition yacht; a glass-covered, two-story solarium – which houses the Seahorse Pool and Jacuzzi – providing panoramic views from sea to sky; and the full-service Crystal Life Salon & Spa with a state-of-the-art Fitness Center as well as a wrap-around Promenade Deck, rare in the industry but an iconic Crystal design element. Expedition-specific amenities and spaces will enhance guests’ experience, including enrichment areas, designated mud rooms, and an Expedition Lounge. The ship’s marina will feature the “toys” found aboard a private yacht for further explorations including a fleet of zodiacs, kayaks, snorkel gear, and more.

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 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.

OCEANIA CRUISES UNVEILS “VISTA” SIGNATURE SPACES

Brand’s Newest Ship Presents A Fresh New Perspective Through Dramatic Design Elements

MIAMI, FL, May 20, 2021 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, unveiled the signature lounges, bars, and wellness facilities of Vista, the first of two new 1,200-guest Allura Class ships that are being constructed by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. The 67,000-gross-ton, 1,200-guest luxury vessel, the seventh for the line, will set sail in 2023. A second Allura Class ship will debut in 2025.  

“Our guests have a passion for new experiences and destinations while also loving to travel to familiar places and seeing them from new directions. That drove every aspect of designing Vista, to present a sense of familiarity imbued with unique elements and fresh perspectives,” stated Bob Binder, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises.

Purposely designed to deliver the brand’s hallmark small-ship luxury experience, Vista features a wide variety of social, recreation, and wellness spaces oriented across six of the ship’s 11 guest decks. A mixture of both grand and cozy spaces presents guests with a room for every mood and purpose, whether one seeks an intimate getaway spot to enjoy a quiet read, a tony bar for evening cocktails, or to dance the night away with newfound friends.

The Grand Staircase: A Welcome Unlike Any Other

An iconic element of the Oceania Cruises brand, The Grand Staircase is where every new Oceania Cruises journey begins. Sleek curves and elegant details define the grandest of beginnings. A glistening floor-to-ceiling pillar of crystal and light sets the tone for the ship and the guest experience.

Martinis: A Classic Transformed

So much more than the name conveys, our reimagined Martinis bar is a true destination aboard Vista. Convivial gathering spaces are nestled among walls of shimmering glass, and custom sculptural lighting casts a warm glow over the heart of the bar. Sophistication, glamour, and elegance serve as a backdrop for extraordinary evenings.

The Grand Lounge: Gatherings Made Glamorous

Evoking the feeling of a private club, The Grand Lounge features sleek alcoves enhanced by a gold-infused color palette, sculptural lighting, and elegant lines. It’s a relaxing yet elegant lounge that invites guests to unwind before an unforgettable dinner or enjoy a nightcap with fellow explorers.

Casino + Casino Bar: An Exciting Escape

Layers of luxury come to life through the golden grandeur and art nouveau-inspired touches in Vista’s elegantly evolved Casino. The energized excitement is palpable in this enclave designed for those drawn to exciting games of chance and skill as well as those simply seeking a refined space to enjoy a cocktail.

Horizons: A View of the World

Conjuring a world of possibilities, the dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and inspiring silhouettes in Horizons celebrate the journey. Guests will be awed by sweeping 180-degree views whether they’re sharing travel stories over Afternoon Tea, taking in sights along the way, or enjoying a lively musical performance.

 Pool Deck: A Tranquil Oasis

Mirroring the beauty of the surrounding sea, the Pool Deck creates the perfect onboard escape. Guests may revel in the solitude of a uniquely modern beach-club cabana, go for a refreshing swim, or gather with friends poolside. The variety of textures and soothing natural tones come together in a natural oasis to reconnect with nature.

Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center: A Luxurious Sanctuary

Dedicated to a personal journey of well-being, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center offers a host of tranquil treatment areas, state-of-the-art workout and personal training spaces as well as a spacious new salon and barbershop. The indulgent spa terrace with sweeping sea views confirms that rejuvenation guided every aspect of our first purpose-built holistic wellness center. 

Vista’s best-in-class culinary experiences and spacious, residentially inspired suites and staterooms will be revealed in the coming weeks, with her inaugural voyages opening for sale in September 2021.

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 six small, luxurious ships carry only 684 to 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.

MSC CRUISES HERALDS NEXT PHASE OF INDUSTRY RESTART

Flagship MSC Virtuosa is first cruise ship to depart from the UK in 14 months 

UK follows in the footsteps of Mediterranean restart in August 2020 when MSC Cruises became first line to offer international voyages  

Geneva, Switzerland (May 20, 2021) — Cruising from the UK resumes today after a 14-month hiatus when MSC Virtuosa departs from the port of Southampton for a four-night sailing that marks the start of her maiden season at sea.

The MSC Cruises’ flagship will be the first ocean liner to sail in British waters since the global cruise industry came to a voluntary halt in March 2020 as a result of the global pandemic ashore.

MSC Cruises was the first major cruise line to resume sailing in international waters in August 2020 when MSC Grandiosa began weekly cruises in the Mediterranean following approval by a range of European authorities for an advanced health and safety protocol that has since effectively set a new standard for the industry.

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “We are very proud that MSC Virtuosa’s first ever sailing marks the resumption of cruising from British ports after an enforced break of more than a year and effectively heralds the next phase of restart for our industry.

“Our shipping prowess led the way last August with a health and safety protocol designed to protect our guests and crew, as well as the destinations that our ships visit. The data, knowledge and experience we have gleaned since our initial restart in the Mediterranean has helped us to drive forward with our plans to have nearly half of our fleet back at sea during this coming summer, with more to follow in other key markets around the world.

“Since our restart last August in the Mediterranean thousands of guests have had a safe and enjoyable cruise holiday on board one of our ships and we look forward to many more having the same well-earned relaxing breaks with their friends and families in the weeks and months ahead as more of our ships return to water in the UK, across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.”

MSC Virtuosa’s UK cruises add to MSC Grandiosa and MSC Seaside’s current sailings in the Mediterranean. MSC Cruises is finalizing its preparations to restart five more ships across the East and West Mediterranean and Northern Europe in the coming weeks following the go-ahead from relevant authorities to resume the Company’s safe and responsible operations. MSC Cruises is also awaiting eagerly for authorities in the U.S. to allow for Caribbean voyages to resume, as well as other markets the Company has served traditionally.

The brand new environmentally-advanced 181,000 GT MSC Virtuosa will be available during the summer for British residents only and for guests of all ages who are either waiting for a COVID-19 vaccine or who have already been vaccinated. All guests are tested before they embark the ship and non-vaccinated guests are required to also show proof of a negative test conducted up to 72 hours prior to embarkation.

Other pre-boarding and onboard protective measures also apply to both guests and crew, in line with MSC Cruises’ health and safety protocol. The leading protocol was developed last year with input from international health experts, including MSC Cruises’ ‘COVID-19 Blue-Ribbon Expert Group’, and in close cooperation with national and regional health, transport and safety authorities throughout Europe. 

Many of MSC Virtuosa’s 1,150 crew have received COVID-19 vaccines as part of MSC Cruises’ comprehensive and ongoing fleet-wide vaccination program for all crew members that began at the beginning of May.

Seasoned hospitality and fine dining expert Philipp Reutener joins Swan Hellenic as Hotel Director

Cultural expedition cruise pioneer brings its first ship the leadership of a truly international professional

Nicosia, Cyprus: Today, Thursday the 20th of May, Swan Hellenic announced that internationally-experienced hospitality and fine dining expert Philipp Reutener has joined the iconic company as Hotel Director of the first of its three new cultural expedition cruise ships, the five-star SH Minerva which will be embarking on its fully-booked maiden cruise toward the end of the year.

Born into hospitality, helping his parents from an early age to run their bed and breakfast in the beautiful, historic town of Brunnen on Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, Philipp's professional journey has ranged from chef at premium restaurants in Brunnen, Geneva and Lugano to front of house at the renowned “Le Beaujolais" in Banff, Canada. This was followed by senior management positions at the MythenForum Schwyz conference and event centre in Switzerland and then with Norwegian Cruise Line, initially as Food & Beverage Assistant Manager and soon after as Director between 2001 and 2002, leading to shore-based positions in Human Resources and Culinary Projects up to 2005. His career then continued on land for the next 6 years, managing resorts for Amari, Anantara and Sandals in Thailand, the UAE and Jamaica. The lure of the sea was too strong, however, and in 2013 he returned to the waves as Hotel Director with Seabourn, mainly cruising the Baltic and his favourite region of the world, Antarctica.

Philipp’s passion for hospitality has not only seen him accumulate multiple qualifications (from the Swiss Hotel Management School Lucerne, Switzerland, and Cornell University in New York) but also led him to acquire extensive competence in languages, from his native Swiss German and German to French, English, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Thai. This, combined with his wide-ranging experience living and working in diverse cultures, make him a perfect fit for the iconic Swan Hellenic.

“We're delighted to have Philipp moulding the hospitality experience aboard SH Minerva, with his immense experience, refined competence and sheer joie de vivre,” declared Swan Hellenic Vice President of Hotel Operations Hans Heger. “We've already been hard at working selecting some very fine wines for the ship's cellar!”

Philipp Reutener commented: “I'm honoured to have been chosen to help create the extraordinary on-board experience that Swan Hellenic has conceived for SH Minerva, a distinctive combination of comfort, refinement and the highest service standards with the relaxed confidence typical of true connoisseurs.”

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 North America, please contact:

Nam Contact Number: +1 – 800 537-6777.

VIKING ANNOUNCES JULY 2021 RESTART OF EUROPEAN RIVER SAILINGS

“Welcome Back” Collection Now Includes Select River Itineraries 
in Portugal, France and Along the Rhine

Los Angeles (May 19, 2021) – Viking® (www.viking.com) announced today that it will restart its European river operations in July 2021 with select itineraries in Portugal, France and along the Rhine. Offered exclusively for vaccinated guests as part of Viking’s Welcome Back collection, the first five European river itineraries now available in July are among the company’s most popular: Rhine Getaway (8 days; Amsterdam to Basel), Portugal’s River of Gold (10 days; Lisbon to Porto), Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 days; Paris roundtrip), Lyon & Provence (8 days; Avignon to Lyon) and France’s Finest, a 15-day journey that combines the northern and southern France itineraries in one seamless experience. This announcement comes immediately after the European Union agreed today to reopen its borders to vaccinated Americans and other travelers.

              “The response to our initial Welcome Back ocean voyages has been overwhelmingly positive. It is clear that many people are eager to get back out into the world, and I would like to thank all of our destination partners for their support as we plan our return to service,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We have been delighted to greet our first guests back on board in England this week—and we are looking forward to welcoming travelers back on board some of our European river vessels in July.” 

The announcement of Viking’s restart of European river cruise operations follows the launch of Welcome Back voyages exclusively for vaccinated guests in England, Iceland, Bermuda and the Mediterranean. Earlier this week Viking also named its newest ocean ship, Viking Venus®, in England—and the ship is currently sailing her maiden voyage along the coast of England with Chairman Torstein Hagen on board. The company is actively working on developing additional Welcome Back itineraries in a variety of other destinations, with the goal of announcing further 2021 sailings as soon as possible.

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—and a strong network of dedicated shoreside labs for Viking river ships in Europe—all guests and crew will receive frequent 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.

MSC CRUISES COUNTS DOWN SIX MONTHS TO MSC SEASHORE’S MIAMI DEBUT WITH SIX NEW HIGHLIGHTS ON BOARD ITS LATEST SHIP

• Guests will be at one with the sea with MSC Seashore boasting the most outdoor space of any MSC Cruises’ ship sailing from the U.S.

• The ship has been entirely reimagined, with new restaurants and venues, redesigned spaces as well as the largest Yacht Club in MSC Cruises’ fleet

• Cruises will include stops at MSC Cruises’ award-winning private island destination, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (May 18, 2021) — MSC Cruises, the world’s third largest and fastest-growing cruise brand, will introduce its brand-new cruise ship, MSC Seashore, to her new homeport in Miami in just six months. Starting November 20, travelers can be among the first to sail aboard the leading cruise line’s newest and most innovative ship from the U.S. with weekly seven-night cruises from Miami to The Bahamas and Caribbean, including stops at MSC Cruises’ new private island destination,Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. With just six months until the ship begins cruising from Miami, MSC Cruises is counting down by rounding up the ship’s six most exciting cruise highlights.

 The Aurea Bar offers an outdoor lounge area in the Top 19 Solarium (download image here)

1) The Most Outdoor Space of Any MSC Cruises Ship in the U.S.

As an evolution of her popular sister ship MSC Seaside, MSC Seashore has been reimagined with 65 percent of the ship entirely redesigned. Designed specifically for warmer climates, guests can take advantage of nearly 140,000 sq. ft. of outdoor space, including redesigned outdoor venues and bars, new al fresco dining areas and more. Those looking for an escape can relax with a cocktail along the ship’s waterfront boardwalk spanning over 1,700 ft. Guests booking the Aurea experience will also have access to a new sophisticated bar at the Top 19 Solarium with spacious lounge areas and seating in the open air. More daring guests can opt to cross the glass-floored Bridge of Sighs perched 72 ft. above the Infinity Pool, overlooking the aft of the ship.

Infinity Whirlpool

2) New Infinity Pool & Hot Tub Overlooking the Ocean

New additions to MSC Seashore are the ship’s infinity pool and hot tubs, offering guests uninterrupted sea views. Edged to the back of the ship, the Infinity Pool also now includes both shallow and deep areas with multiple lounge chairs situated right in the pool for a picturesque relaxation experience. The infinity hot tubs are two of the 15 on board, located on either side of the ship and close to the sea on Deck 8, each including 20 sea-facing seats for guests.

HOLA! Tacos & Cantina aboard MSC Seashore will be the second in MSC Cruises’ fleet

3) Brand New Restaurants Serving Up Cuisine from Around the World

Across MSC Seashore’s five specialty restaurants within Chef’s Court, guests can treat their taste buds to a range of internationally-inspired cuisine in both brand-new restaurants and familiar signature concepts.

First, MSC Cruises will infuse Mexican and Latin-American fare into HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, offering street food specialties and an extensive list of 16 tequilas and 9 mezcals, all in a lively, interactive setting. For breakfast, guests can dive into a breakfast nacho tray and Chilaquiles with a fried egg. For lunch and dinner, the menu offers flavorful dishes like chicken empanadas, duck taquitos, chipotle shrimp taco, Chiles Rellenos and more. The meal is tied together by a sweet ending of house-made churros, Dulce de Leche Flan or Mexican chocolate cake, to name a few.

Kaito Sushi Bar will boast a moving sushi conveyor belt

A first in MSC Cruises’ fleet, Kaito Sushi will introduce a new sushi conveyor belt for patrons to grab and bite sushi as they like, with over 45 varieties of sushi, sashimi and tempura circling the restaurant. Whether salmon nigiri, a Kaito Rainbow Futomaki roll or Hamachi sashimi, patrons melt into authentic sushi made with the freshest ingredients.                                                         

In addition to new concepts, MSC Cruises’ mainstays featured on board will include American-style steakhouse Butcher’s Cut, serving prime cuts from around the world, Ocean Cay, offering Mediterranean-style seafood, and Kaito Teppanyaki, where authentic Asian cuisine meets eye-catching entertainment.

Butcher’s Cut will offer al fresco dining along the waterfront boardwalk

4) New Al Fresco Dining Spaces to Dine by the Sea 

On a ship that showcases a connection with the outdoors, it is only natural to extend the dining experience out on deck, closer to the sea. At MSC Seashore’s Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, diners can opt to enjoy their meal al fresco, overlooking the ocean from Deck 8. From a 36 oz. dry-aged tomahawk for two and filet mignon to lamb chops, bison and lump crab or lobster tail to add surf to the turf, guests can dig into delectable prime cuts under the cool sea breeze.

5) The Largest MSC Yacht Club of Any MSC Cruises’ Ship

Spanning four decks with unparalleled sea views, the MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seashore will be the largest and most luxurious in MSC Cruises’ fleet, with nearly 32,292 sq. ft. of space dedicated to the ship within a ship. Yacht Club guests are treated to private amenities — including a private pool, restaurant and lounge — as well as 24-hour butler service, all with the choice and entertainment of the entire ship. MSC Seashore’s is complete with sophisticated finishes and elegant design, with the entrance including a three-deck-high backlit Onyx wall and MSC Cruises’ signature Swarovski crystal staircases. The Yacht Club’s private pool deck celebrates the outdoors with over 21,000 sq. ft. of space, featuring a spacious pool, a panoramic and standard hot tub.

MSC Yacht Club Owner’s Suite Living Area

Those booked in the Yacht Club can choose from luxe accommodations with 131 elegant suites across five categories, including well-appointed deluxe and royal suites as well as 41 newly introduced deluxe grand suites, with extra space and a walk-in closet, and two brand new Owner’s Suites. The ultra-luxe Owner’s Suites are the largest suites on the ship, with 1,055 sq. ft. of space and featuring an expansive private balcony with a hot tub, outdoor living area, panoramic glass wall for unmatched sea views, and a separate dining and living room area.  

6) Cruises to MSC Cruises’ Award-Winning Private Island

The experience on board MSC Seashore is just the beginning when you’re cruising to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ new private island in The Bahamas named Best New Cruise Destination. Surrounded by 64 square miles of marine reserve, Ocean Cay offers guests a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, discover local marine life and soak up the spirit of The Bahamas. With MSC Seashore docking at the island from early morning into the evening — and in some instances overnight — MSC Cruises’ guests can spend a full day enjoying two miles of pristine, white sand beaches and a variety of ocean discovery activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, thrilling wave runner rides and more. 

As an added treat, guests booked in the MSC Yacht Club are not only able to relish their experience on board, but also on Ocean Cay. On the island, Yacht Club guests have access to an exclusive area, complete with butler service, a private beach and clubhouse and all-inclusive food and beverages on top of all the island has to offer.

To learn more about MSC Seashore and to book a cruise on one of the ship’s first itineraries from Miami, guests can contact their preferred travel advisor or visit here.

MSC CRUISES TO START BALTIC SEA SAILINGS IN JULY FROM GERMANY

• MSC Seaview’s 7-night voyages from Kiel, Germany to Sweden and Estonia will include protected shore excursions

• Debut of Seaside-class ship in Northern Europe

Geneva, Switzerland (May 18 2021) — MSC Cruises today announced it will restart its sailing operations in Germany on July 3 with is first ever deployment of an innovative Seaside class ship to operate in the Baltic Sea, MSC Seaview, and with a brand new itinerary for the region.

The ship will homeport in Kiel until September and offer 7-night voyages – all to include protected shore excursions - to Visby on Sweden’s largest island of Gotland, the port of Nynashamn for Swedish capital city Stockholm, and Estonia’s capital Tallinn, before returning to the northern Germany port.

MSC Seaview will be available for guests of all ages from the Schengen area in Europe, plus residents of Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria.

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “We are looking forward to the resumption of our cruises from Germany, an incredibly important market for us, and provide our guests with an enjoyable, relaxing and safe cruise holiday on MSC Seaview, one of our most innovative ships.

“Visiting destinations and going ashore is an integral aspect of a cruise holiday and it is now possible with our Baltic Sea cruises from Germany thanks to the general relaxation of health measures locally, as well as much of Europe, and the confirmed opening of the ports and destinations MSC Seaview will call

“We’re delighted that this brand-new itinerary will provide our guests with some outstanding destinations to visit ashore where they can safely discover the beauty of the Baltics with the same high health and safety standards as those on board MSC Seaview, as well as all of our ships.” 

Visby, the capital of the Baltic Sea island of Gotland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive medieval buildings.  Stockholm – known as the ‘Venice of the North’ – is famous for its outstanding architecture and abundance of open water, and Tallinn is renowned for its monumental walls, towers and well-preserved ancient buildings.

The ship will comply with MSC Cruises’ industry-leading health and safety protocol that was developed last year with input from international health experts, including MSC Cruises’ ‘COVID-19 Blue-Ribbon Expert Group’, and in close cooperation with health, safety and transport authorities throughout Europe. 

Measures include universal testing at embarkation and mid-cruise, weekly testing of crew, social distancing, the wearing of masks in public areas and protected shore excursions.  Details of the current health and safety protocol are here.

MSC Cruises will closely monitor the situation ashore at all the destinations MSC Seaview will call and the itinerary may see the possible addition of new ports.

MSC Seaview’s Baltic Sea cruises are another step forward in MSC Cruises’ wider plans for a return to sea for its fleet of ships. MSC Grandiosa and MSC Seaside are currently sailing in the West Mediterranean and will be joined in August by MSC Seashorefor her maiden season.  The Company’s most recent addition MSC Virtuosa is set to start her own maiden season later this week with voyages around the UK.

Three more ships will soon begin cruises in the East Mediterranean – MSC Orchestra, MSC Splendida and MSC Magnifica.  With only a few ports in the Baltic and North Seas open for cruising this summer, MSC Cruises has been forced to cancel its proposed summer season sailings from the German ports of Warnemünde and Hamburg for MSC Preziosa and MSC Musica,respectively.

About MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise brand as well as the leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa with more market share in addition to deployed capacity than any other player. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises one of the two brands that sit within the Cruises Division of MSC Group, the leading privately held Swiss-based shipping and logistics conglomerate with over 300 years of maritime heritage. MSC Cruises — the contemporary brand — has a modern fleet of 18 vessels combined with a sizeable future global investment portfolio of new vessels. The fleet is projected to grow to 23 cruise ships by 2025 with options for six vessel orders in place through 2030.

MSC Cruises offers its guests an enriching, immersive and safe cruise experience inspired by the Company’s European heritage, where they can enjoy international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ itineraries and experience on board its ships please seehere.

The Company’s number one priority has always been the health and safety of its guests and crew, as well as the communities at the destinations its ships serve.  In August 2020, MSC Cruises implemented a new comprehensive and robust health and safety protocol to become the first major line to return to sea. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ health & safety protocol please see here.

MSC Cruises has long been committed to environmental stewardship with a long-term goal to achieve zero emissions for its operations. The Company is also a significant investor in next-generation environmental marine technologies, with the objective to support their accelerated development and availability industry wide. To learn more about the Company’s environmental commitment please see here. 

Finally, to learn more about the MSC Foundation, MSC Group’s own vehicle to lead, focus and advance its conservation, humanitarian and cultural commitments please see here.

VIKING’S NEWEST OCEAN SHIP OFFICIALLY NAMED BY ICONIC BRITISH BROADCAST JOURNALIST ANNE DIAMOND

New 930-Guest Viking Venus Welcomed to Fleet with Celebration at Sea in the English Channel 

Los Angeles (May 17, 2021) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today named its newest ocean ship, Viking Venus®, with a celebration at sea in the English Channel as the ship set sail for her inaugural voyage. As part of the intimate event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, revered British journalist and broadcaster Anne Diamond, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

In addition to commemorating Viking Venus as the company’s newest ocean ship, today’s event was also an important milestone as Viking returns to service following 14 months of paused operations. This Saturday, May 22, guests will embarkViking Venus in Portsmouth for the first of five roundtrip sailings of the England’s Scenic Shores itinerary in May and June. Part of Viking’s Welcome Back collection, the eight-day voyages also call in Liverpool, the Isles of Scilly, Falmouth and Portland. Anne Diamond will also join guests for the first three sailings of England’s Scenic Shores and will serve as a guest lecturer with her presentation about the untold story of British radar inventors, including her father, during World War II. Anne’s presentation will also be featured on Viking.TV in the future. Following her time in England, Viking Venus will then sail to Malta, where she will homeport for new Welcome Back voyages in the Mediterranean this summer and fall. 

Delivered in April 2021 at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy, Viking Venus is the newest vessel to join Viking’s ocean fleet of identical sister ships, which also includes Viking Star®, Viking Sea®, Viking Sky®, Viking Orion® and Viking Jupiter®.  Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons and with 465 all veranda staterooms that accommodate 930 guests, the ships feature clean, minimalist Scandinavian design, airy public spaces filled with natural light and abundant al fresco dining options.

“Today is one of the proudest days in Viking’s nearly 24-year history. When we became the first cruise line to suspend operations in March 2020, we certainly did not know it would be 14 months before guests would be welcomed back on board. Now, we are among the first to set sail again—and with our industry-leading health and safety protocols in place, we believe there is no safer way to travel the world than on a Viking voyage,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “On behalf of the entire Viking family, we are delighted to celebrate the naming of our newest ship in England. We are also grateful to her godmother, Anne Diamond, for her many journalistic and selfless contributions—as well as for her tireless efforts fostering a community on Viking.TV each week for more than a year.”

Viking Venus in Portsmouth

“It is a huge honor to be chosen as godmother to Viking Venus and to be officially part of the Viking family. Over my many years as a journalist I have reported and been part of many historic events, but I never dreamt I would be godmother to an ocean ship or that I would be celebrating the occasion with my family and friends on board the beautiful Viking Venus on the very first day that we are able to cruise again in the UK,” said Anne Diamond. “It is an unforgettable experience, especially as it marks Viking’s global restart. I am looking forward to many more voyages with Viking, including the upcoming sailings of the England’s Scenic Shores itinerary. I am also looking forward to another year interviewing some of the world’s most fascinating people on Viking.TV.”  

Anne continued: “I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the whole Viking family, to thank Torstein and Karine Hagen. They have worked tirelessly over the past 14 months to ensure that hope has stayed on the horizon and to keep their guests and crew connected and entertained. I find it both reassuring and inspirational to see the lengths to which Viking has gone to ensure that we can all start exploring the world again safely. Welcome back to everyone at Viking—here’s to brighter days ahead. As they say at sea, ‘I wish you, your guests and crew fair winds and following seas as you return to service.’”

During the naming ceremony festivities this evening, the group of invited guests on board Viking Venus enjoyed scenic sailing along the coast of England, and exclusively recorded concerts from artists that included Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of Viking Jupiter; violinist Tor Jaran Apold; and acclaimed English boys choir LIBERA. In keeping with the naming custom, Anne assisted in breaking a bottle of Norwegian aquavit on the ship’s hull—using an historic Viking broad axe to cut a ribbon that symbolically held the bottle in place. The event also honored today, May 17, as Norwegian Constitution Day and paid tribute to the Nordic spirit of exploration. Additionally, after speeches by Chairman Hagen and Anne, guests were treated to the unveiling of a custom “Air Fountain” by artist Daniel Wurtzel, which was specifically designed and installed in the ship’s Atrium for the event. Best known for his kinetic sculptures and installations using air and lightweight materials that fly, Wurtzel has shown his artworks at the Musée Rodin, the Grand Palais in Paris, the Tate Modern Turbine Hall and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

Anne Diamond, Godmother of Viking Venus

Anne Diamond is best known for her pioneering work on morning shows in the United Kingdom during the 1980s—along with a legendary career in frontline television that has lasted for more than 40 years. From the fall of the Berlin Wall, Australia’s bicentenary and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, to interviews with Bette Davis, Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh—Anne’s impressive journalistic journey has made her a household name. She has also been an inspirational campaigner, having pioneered the 1991 UK cot death campaign, following the death of her own son, Sebastian. The campaign saved over 20,000 babies’ lives and has inspired other life-saving campaigns worldwide. She is the only non-medic ever to hold the Medal of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

For more than a year, Anne has been a key figure on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV (www.viking.tv). Viking.TV went live in March 2020, in the early stages of the pandemic, and was conceived as a way to build community, stay connected and share positive experiences while people are staying home, rather than traveling. Every Thursday since the launch of Viking.TV, Anne has interviewed a wide spectrum of significant figures with relationships to Viking, including world-renowned cellist and humanitarian Yo-Yo Ma; Xander Parish, principal ballet dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre; the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon; the Duke of Devonshire; explorer Robin Hanbury-Tenison, OBE; former PBS MASTERPIECE Executive Producer Rebecca Eaton, OBE; Downton Abbey’s “Mrs. Patmore,” actress Lesley Nicol; polar explorers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft; NASA astronauts Dr. Anna Fisher, Dr. Kathryn Sullivan and Dr. Richard Michael Linnehan; classical musicians Alma and Helen Deutscher; legendary British actor, broadcaster and writer Sir Michael Palin; celebrity chefs Eric Ripert, Andreas Viestad and Ainsley Harriot, MBE; bestselling authors Jeffrey Archer, Claire Cook, Robert Harris and Paul Schneider; and Kyle MacLachlan, Sofia Helin and Alexander Eik, the lead actors and the creator of the new PBS MASTERPIECE series, Atlantic Crossing.

Welcome Back Voyages

Today’s milestone follows Viking’s recent announcements about how it is restarting operations with Welcome Back ocean voyages exclusively for vaccinated guests in England, Iceland, Bermuda and Malta. The company is actively working on developing additional Welcome Back itineraries in a variety of other destinations, with the goal of announcing further 2021 sailings as soon as government approvals are given.

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 frequent 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.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE REFLAGS MARDI GRAS TO BAHAMIAN REGISTRY

 First LNG-Powered Ship in North America to Arrive at Port Canaveral on June 4 

                MIAMI, May 17, 2021 – When Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship, Mardi Gras, arrives to her new home in Port Canaveral, Fla. on June 4, she will be flying the Bahamian flag to designate the new ship registry for the first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ship to operate in North America.

            Mardi Gras has been the most highly anticipated new ship in the cruise industry for more than a year, with her arrival and inaugural impacted by the extended pause in cruise operations from U.S. ports.  But with more and more hopeful signs of a return to guest operations and constructive discussions between the industry and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Carnival is moving the ship to Port Canaveral to get her ready for sailing.  The ship will depart from Barcelona on May 21 to start her transatlantic voyage and eventual arrival.

            Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, thanked the Panama Maritime Authority for their support during the ship’s construction and registration process but said that the move to the Bahamas Maritime Authority made business sense for a number of reasons.  “The Bahamas will be a frequent destination forMardi Gras, and we are pleased to bring this new level of environmental sustainability to the many ports in the Bahamas and the Caribbean that the ship and our guests and crew will be visiting,” she said.

            Upon arrival to Port Canaveral, Mardi Gras will continue to bring joining crew members on board, train them on new equipment, technology and procedures, and get ready to welcome guests for her inaugural sailing.  On Sunday evening during the global broadcast of the MISS UNIVERSE competition, Carnival named Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Jimenez as the Mardi Gras godmother.  The Dominican Republic destination of Amber Cove will be among the destinations the ship will regularly visit on seven-day itineraries.  Along with the new LNG technology, Mardi Gras will boast many other firsts, including the first cruise ship with a roller coaster.

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 or online travel site.