SILVERSEA® REVEALS DETAILS OF ROMAN-INSPIRED OTIVM℠ WELLNESS PROGRAMME AND SILVER DAWN’S REIMAGINED SPA

With Otium, guests will embark upon a holistic wellness journey that will extend from suites to spa and beyond

(MONACO – March 15, 2022) With Silver DawnSM set to welcome guests as the 10th ship in Silversea’s fleet beginning April 1, 2022,the leading ultra-luxury cruise line has taken the opportunity to unveil details of its new OtiumSM wellness program, as well as the new ship’s reimagined spa. Grounded in the philosophy and traditions of the ancient Roman lifestyle, Otium encourages balanced indulgence, pampering, and pleasure over sacrifice and delayed gratification by weaving a tapestry of unprecedented comfort around guests.

“With Otium, our guests will enjoy the next iteration of Silversea’s trademark level of comfort, as part of an innovation in wellness at sea,” says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Thoughtfully designed with Otium in mind, Silver Dawn’s reimagined spa offers guests unprecedented comfort—enhanced with Roman-inspired art pieces, elegant furnishings, and a curated Otium treatment menu. Starting in suites with dedicated balcony, bathing and sleeping experiences, before intensifying in the beautiful Otium Spa, and extending through the ship with unforgettable moments of pleasure, the Otium wellness journey has been designed to pamper our guests like never before.”

AN EXTENDED WELLNESS JOURNEY: FROM SUITE TO SPA AND BEYOND

Otium will take guests on a customized wellness journey that extends beyond Silver Dawn’s reimagined spa, incorporating multiple touches to enrich Silversea’s unique take on luxury. The holistic journey begins with indulgent bathing, balcony, and sleeping experiences in some of the most spacious suites at sea. Silversea’s butlers will tailor guests’ experiences with a choice of scents, while a delectable comfort food menu, comprising gourmet bites and refreshing libations, offers guests unique moments of pleasure. Guests can get comfortable in a plush Otium bathrobe and slippers, before making their way to the Otium Spa. Here, the wellness ritual, influenced by ancient Roman baths, soothes guests into a state of bliss, offering a curated range of Mediterranean-inspired treatments—in both the spa and the salon—and memorable hydrothermal experiences. Guests are encouraged to socialize in both the modern relaxation room, with comfortable chaises for lounging, and the expansive outdoor area, which affords panoramic views of the ocean and welcomes meditative reflections. The wellness journey then continues beyond the spa with unforgettable moments of tailored relaxation throughout the ship.

SILVER DAWN’S REIMAGINED SPA

Designed by HBA London, Silver Dawn’s reimagined spa is more than 36m2 larger than that of her sister ship, Silver Muse, spanning over 790m2 on deck six. It includes an optimized layout for a more seamless wellness journey—enhanced with culinary delights, mood lighting and curated playlists—as well as an enhanced Beauty Salon, Fitness Center, Barber Salon, and an outdoor relaxation area of 219m2. A spacious relaxation room lies at its heart, which, elegantly decorated with Roman-inspired artworks and an infinity water feature, will invite guests to socialize as they are pampered in a soothing atmosphere. Inviting treatment rooms, a large sauna, and a steam room enhance the offering. 

Every detail of the spa’s design has been curated for a comforting and sensorial experience. The space’s color palette takes inspiration from the ocean and shorelines to soothe guests into a state of complete relaxation, growing with each stage of the wellness journey. Warm, earthy notes greet guests in the reception area, while deeper shades of blue create calming sanctuaries in the treatment and relaxation areas. Creative mood lighting and calming music form the perfect ambience in each area of the spa, while sophisticated materials—selected for their comforting natural textures—heighten the decor’s sensory impact.

THE CURATED OTIVM WELLNESS MENU

In the Otium Spa, Silversea’s guests will enjoy bespoke treatments from a curated wellness menu—inspired by Mediterranean wellness rituals and ancient Roman baths—which includes a hedonistic selection of Otium signature experiences for an enhanced wellness journey. Treatments incorporate natural and sustainable products, including exclusive Otium signature products. Guests can select their preferred scent, and, if enjoying a body treatment, their preference of three body oils, as well as body scrub for subsequent thermal experiences. In addition to facials, medi-spa cosmetic treatments, and acupuncture, among other indulgences, the new menu includes the following Otium signature experiences:

• The Otium

‘Indulge your senses in the ultimate spa journey. Inspired by the Mediterranean, warm, fragrant oils are infused with shea butter, raspberry, and chamomile, and drizzled onto the body in soothing and sweeping movements. Using a trio of elements that transcend beyond a state of relaxation, mineral-rich pink salt stones, natural bamboo, and grounding calabash deeply stimulate and release tension, enticing a most pleasurable feeling of inner wellbeing.’

• The Hedone Delight

‘Design your journey of wellbeing. Guided by Hedone, goddess of pleasure, indulge in a bespoke massage with the selection of aroma and body polish that resonates with your sense of being.’

• The Divine Experience

‘Purify the body with nature’s own minerals. Mood-balancing aromatics induce relaxation whilst cocooned prior to a decadent scalp, neck, and shoulder massage and luxurious hand treatment. Simply divine.’

• The Apollonian Spirit

‘Comfort the body with a treatment inspired by Apollo, the god of healing. This contrast therapy is effective and provides immediate relief for tired, aching muscles. Mineral-rich salt stones harness a natural warmth, whilst a nutrient-rich cold mask provides a dynamic rescue therapy.’

Additionally, Otium introduces a set of services in the Beauty and Barber salons, designed to pamper guests from tip to toe. These include bespoke Otium hair rituals, manicure and pedicure signature experiences, as well as the ultimate in gentlemen’s grooming.

Read a new article on the Otium wellness program on Silversea’s blog:

https://discover.silversea.com/ships/silver-dawn/silver-dawn-otium-preview/

View Silversea’s new Otium treatment menu:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/i21ez8a4jttbc9p/Otium%20Spa%20Treatment%20Menu.pdf?dl=0

Find out more information about Silver Dawn, including her upcoming voyages:

https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-dawn.html

About Silversea Cruises 

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Dawn, Silver Shadow®, Silver Whisper®, Silver Spirit®, Silver Muse® and Silver MoonSM – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin®, Silver Wind®, SilverExplorer®, and Silver Cloud®, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Galápagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of two new ultra-luxury Nova-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox. Silversea Cruises is one of five cruise brands owned by global cruise company Royal Caribbean Group. (NYSE: RCL)

About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is one of the leading cruise companies in the world with a global fleet of 61 ships traveling to more than 800 destinations around the world. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three award winning cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, and it is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, the brands have an additional 12 ships on order as of December 31, 2021. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express Introduces Culinary Ambassadors

Ahead of next year’s 130th anniversary, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express is upping its game even more. Not just considered the most beautiful voyage in the world, it will also be a culinary experience of the senses. Collaborating with local suppliers is a vital part of the company’s food concept, Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, and they have partnered with two extraordinary chefs with close links to the beautiful Norwegian coast, to elevate the onboard gastronomy offerings.

The two award-winning chefs, Astrid Regine Nässlander and Halvar Ellingsen, not only share the same values as Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express, they both also hail from Northern Norway – where they live and work – which is where Hurtigruten was established back in 1893. They both rely on local suppliers and organic ingredients to create exceptional gastronomic experiences, a perfect fit for the onboard Coastal Kitchen concept.

“We always look for ways to connect with the local food traditions and the food culture along the Norwegian coast. Astrid and Halvar share our food philosophy, and both have the same unique connection with Northern Norway that Hurtigruten has. With them on board, we can use their deep local knowledge to develop and enhance our menus even more and inspire the next generation of Norway’s Coastal Kitchen chefs,” said Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express.

Local chefs from the Norwegian coast

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express is proud to support fisheries, farms, butchers, and other small businesses along the Norwegian coast, as it has done for well over a century. The fresh farm-and-fjord-to-table flavors are an essential part of the journey, where guests will feel like a true traveler, not a tourist.

Astrid and Halvar will continue this culinary tradition and develop locally inspired, sustainably sourced, seasonal dishes served on board all seven ships in the fleet. They will train and inspire kitchen staff, and through a dedicated trainee program foster a new wave of talented Hurtigruten chefs.

Astrid Regine Nässlander. Photo: Yann Bougaran / Hurtigruten Norway

Astrid Regine Nässlander. Photo: Yann Bougaran / Hurtigruten Norway

Local produce and know-how

“What drives me is the urge to show people what we have around us, and that it’s possible to source food differently than just going to the supermarket. It’s old-fashioned common sense to get milk from a dairy farmer or meat from a moose hunter,” said Astrid Nässlander.

Astrid lives on the small island of Steigen opposite Lofoten in Northern Norway. This is the area where the 30-year-old award-winning freelance chef and small-scale sustainable meat producer sources all the ingredients she needs or wants.

“Hurtigruten and I share the same food philosophy. The Coastal Express is in many ways the true essence of Norway, and the food served on board represents the places where the ships sail,” she continues.

Halvar Ellingsen is the chef at the famous restaurant Kvitnes Gård in Northern Norway. Photo: Yann Bougaran / Hurtigruten Norway

Halvar Ellingsen is the chef at the famous restaurant Kvitnes Gård in Northern Norway. Photo: Yann Bougaran / Hurtigruten Norway

Highlighting local ingredients

Halvar Ellingsen, a former member of Norway’s national cooking team, is now Head Chef at the famous restaurant Kvitnes in Vesterålen. After ten years of living and cooking in Norway’s capital Oslo, Halvar decided to move back home to his family’s farm “to get in touch with the ingredients again”.

“I wanted to prove what short-travelled, sustainable food really is in practice,” said Ellingsen.

Kvitnes is virtually self-sufficient in vegetables, meat, herbs, and berries, sourcing almost all its ingredients from the nearby surroundings.

“As a young boy, I would hear the whistle of The Norwegian Coastal Express ships every day. It was a natural part of growing up on the coast. Even now, we have goods delivered to our restaurant from the ships every week,” Ellingsen said.

“I’m really looking forward to giving guests on the Norwegian Coastal Express food which both tastes great and highlights the ingredients of the areas they travel to.”

***

Astrid Nässlander’s and Halvar Ellingsen’s summer season menus will be available on board the Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express fleet in April and will change with the different seasons. Our Culinary Ambassadors will develop six dishes per season for the fine dining restaurant, one menu per year in the main restaurant, and two dishes for the bistro. They will also participate in workshops with the kitchen staff. In addition, Nässlander will deliver products to the ships, among them her famous moose sausages.

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My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE COMMEMORATES 50 YEARS OF FUN, MARKING DAY FIRST CRUISE SET SAIL

Carnival Donates $50,000 to Ukrainian Relief Efforts and Another $50,000 to  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami 

MIAMI, March 11, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line today marked a half a century since its maiden voyage from PortMiami with a celebration aboard Carnival Conquest. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy was joined by Carnival Corp. Chairman Micky Arison and Carnival Corp. CEO Arnold Donald; U.S. Representatives Frederica Wilson and Vern Buchanan; Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava; Doral Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez; Miami industry and community leaders; as well as Carnival leadership. 

At the event, Carnival announced a $50,000 donation to World Central Kitchen to support Ukrainian relief efforts and in the name of its more than 300 team members from the country. Duffy also presented a $50,000 donation to Carnival’s long-standing partner Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami. Mayor Levine Cava presented Duffy with a commemorative gift marking the occasion and Mayor Bermudez read a proclamation declaring March 11, 2022 as Carnival Cruise Line Day in Doral.

“On this very day, 50 years ago, history was made when the first Carnival Cruise Line ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, embarked on her maiden voyage from right here at PortMiami,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “For half a century, we have made cruising available to everyone and have provided millions of people with fun and memorable vacations. It’s an honor to be celebrating our five decades of sailing with so many of our partners. We look forward to what the next 50 years holds.” 

Carnival’s 50-year collaboration with Miami-Dade County and PortMiami has resulted in significant economic development for the region, most recently the expansion of the state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami. The Terminal F development team celebrated an important construction milestone today with the topping off of the building and eagerly anticipates the project’s completion and ribbon-cutting this fall. The terminal will be among the first to be shore-power ready in 2023. 

Terminal F will also serve as the homeport for Carnival Celebration, which will be unveiled later this year as part of the culmination of Carnival’s 50th birthday festivities. After Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration will be the second Excel-class ship to be powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and include an award-winning roller coaster at the top of the ship. A third Excel-class ship, Carnival Jubilee, will join the fleet in 2023 and homeport in Galveston.

Over the years, Carnival has maintained a strong commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates, including its hometown of Miami. In addition to a national partnership with St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and Operation Homefront, Carnival has hosted hundreds of Miami-Dade high school students at its headquarters as part of the Carnival Scholarship and Mentoring Program, and since 2007, has provided 195 scholarships valued at $4 million. 

Carnival currently employs more than 40,000 team members from 120 nationalities. As America’s Cruise Line and the flagship brand of Carnival Corporation, Carnival has made cruising accessible and fun for more than 90 million passengers since its inception. Each year, approximately six million passengers set sail on 23 ships from 14 U.S. homeports and call on popular international destinations. 

In addition to today’s party in Miami, Carnival’s year-long 50th birthday celebrations included 17 commemorative Sailabrations cruises that featured at-sea ship meetups, special entertainment and programming. 

Carnival is sailing from all its year-round U.S. homeports, and its entire fleet will be back in service by this summer, completing an impressive and successful restart of its guest operations and setting the pace for the rest of the U.S. cruise industry. 

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.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE LAUNCHES VERIFLY DIGITAL HEALTH WALLET IN ALL OF ITS U.S. HOMEPORTS

Carnival Largest Cruise Line to Utilize VeriFLY App to Facilitate Travel

            MIAMI, March 10, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line is making health screening simpler and quicker for guests. After a successful pilot of VeriFLY™ by Daon, a secure and free digital health app allowing vaccinated guests to easily submit pre-embarkation information, Carnival has launched the app fleetwide for all ships in all of its U.S. homeports, making Carnival the largest cruise line to utilize VeriFLY.  

            Guests who use the VeriFLY app can expect the time it takes to complete the health assessment process during embarkation to be cut in half.

            “VeriFLY helps our guests easily and securely complete pre-embarkation tasks right from their smartphone. Guests can save time at the port and get on board faster by completing the process via VeriFLY,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy.

            Using the app has been an easy choice for guests from the start. In the pilot program’s first test in January, ahead of a cruise onMardi Gras from Port Canaveral, more than 85 percent of the 2,000 guests who opened an email invitation followed through by downloading the VeriFLY app.

“We were very pleased to hear about the success of the VeriFLY app used in the pilot stage with Carnival Cruise Line and are now excited to see the full deployment of VeriFLY fleetwide for all ships in all of its U.S. homeports,” said Daon CEO Tom Grissen.

            Available in the App Store or Google Play, once guests download VeriFLY, they can then search for Carnival Cruise Line and complete the required steps. Guests will be asked to submit required documentation, including vaccination status and COVID-19 test results. When the process is successfully completed, a VeriFLY pass will be issued in the app to present at embarkation. For more information on VeriFLY and the process, click here.

Guests who choose not to complete the VeriFLY process are still able to complete their pre-cruise tasks on Carnival.com and present required COVID-19 documents during their embarkation. 

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.

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Cunard Eager to Welcome Canadian Guests back onboard Queen Elizabeth during exciting Alaska season

"Sailing Soon Savings" Event offers reduced fares on select voyages

VALENCIA, Calif., March 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Echoing the travel industry's excitement at the news that the Canadian authorities are once again welcoming cruise ships, Cunard is eager to call on Vancouver and the spectacular region of Alaska this summer and beyond. 

Reduced fares on a variety of Alaska itineraries are now available through Cunard's 'Sailing Soon Savings' offer

Cunard returned to Alaska in 2019 to much fanfare and excitement, and now looks ahead with great enthusiasm to their 2022 summer Alaska season on Queen Elizabeth. The ship will again sail through the storied waters and landscapes of the Last Frontier, featuring the blue hues of the immense Hubbard Glacier, and Glacier Bay National Park – where visitors are awed by some of the world's most spectacular tidewater glaciers.

The ship will sail a coastal transit from Los Angeles to Vancouver on May 30, and begin sailing in Alaska on June 5, offering seven and 10-day voyages through July. At the conclusion of the season in late July, Queen Elizabeth will sail down the west coast, providing guests the option to join the ship in San Francisco and in Los Angeles, as the ship journeys onward through the Panama Canal to cap off her Alaska voyages this year. Queen Elizabeth sails in Alaska again in 2023 with an expanded series of itineraries.

"Amidst the myriad choices, Cunard's signature voyage offering, in tandem with the wild frontier of Alaska, is uniquely captivating and distinctive in many ways," says Jamie Paiko, vice president of Sales, Cunard North America. "Guests enjoy the line's hallmark experiences and amenities in a large ship environment but with fewer guests on ships of her size. And this year we are excited to debut our new 'Ice White Ball' with 'Taste of Alaska' Gala dining menu."

Guests will also enjoy world class enrichment programs including acclaimed adventurers Kenton Cool, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Felicity Aston and Peter Hillary; renowned Princess and Queens Grill Suite accommodations and dining; signature White Star Service; more time in port, and the ability to call on smaller regional destinations such as Sitka and Haines.

Guests can choose from a variety of itineraries and book reduced fares on an Alaska voyage through Cunard's "Sailing Soon Savings" offer: https://www.cunard.com/en-us/cruise-deals/sailing-soon-savings. Balcony accommodations on seven-night Alaska voyages in 2022 start from $899 per person; 2023, sailings are also available.

As always, Cunard will carry on adapting protocols to best protect everyone onboard, and meet all requirements of visited destinations, including vaccine and testing policies.

For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.

For Travel Advisors interested in further information, please contact your Business Development Manager, visit OneSourceCruises.com or call Cunard at 1-800-528-6273.

About Cunard
Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic, since 1840, celebrating an incredible 182 years of operation. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys for generations, Cunard is world class. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment and outstanding service. From five-star restaurants and in-suite dining to inspiring guest speakers, the library and film screenings, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. Destinations include Europe, the Caribbean, the Far East and Australia.

There are currently three Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria and a fourth ship, Queen Anne, will be entering service in early 2024. This investment is part of the company's ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally and will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.

Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK). 

Social Media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cunard
Twitter: www.twitter.com/cunardline
YouTube: www.youtube.com/wearecunard
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cunardline

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

Princess Cruises Readies for Full Alaska Season in 2022

Safe Resumption of Cruising in Canadian Ports Allows Cruises and Cruisetours to Alaska and Canada/New England to Sail as Originally Published

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (March 9, 2022) – With the recent announcement from the Federal Minister of Transport in Canada announcing the safe resumption of cruising in Canadian ports, Princess Cruises has finalized programs and guest experiences for a full summer season of 2022 cruises and cruisetours to Alaska, as well as its popular summer and fall Canada & New England program. 

More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line and the 2022 program features six ships, including the line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess. Offerings include 12 unique itineraries, totaling 140 departures and five glacier-viewing experiences, with visits to the Southeast Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. 

Princess sails to and from Vancouver on its popular “Voyage of the Glaciers” seven-day cruises to and from Whittier, Alaska. More than 20 cruisetour options feature an unforgettable land tour visiting the magnificent Denali National Park and Princess Wilderness Lodges and include the "Voyage of the Glaciers" cruise. Alaska cruises sailing from Seattle and San Francisco visit Victoria, Canada, along with various ports in Alaska towns dependent upon itinerary.  

“The reopening of Canadian ports to the cruise industry is a bold and important move that significantly expands the array of travel opportunities available to guests while boosting the economies of the Canadian and Alaska destinations we visit by generating important revenue and job opportunities,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “We know firsthand how cherished these voyages are to both guests and those destinations following our shortened but successful return to Alaska in 2021 that was made possible with the passing of the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act.”

The first Princess cruise ship to visit Canada is Caribbean Princess, sailing on a four-day Pacific Coastal voyage, with a scheduled port stop in Victoria on April 6, followed by Vancouver on April 7. 

For the May through September 2022 season, four convenient west coast home ports – Seattle, Vancouver, B.C., Anchorage (Whittier) and San Francisco – make traveling to Alaska seamless and hassle-free. The 143,700-ton, 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess, marks her inaugural season as the youngest ship in Alaska departing from Seattle on the popular seven-day Inside Passage itinerary, alongside Crown Princess. Majestic Princess debuts along with Royal Princess and Grand Princess sailing the top-rated seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary, which features two glacier viewing experiences on every cruise including Glacier Bay National Park (Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage [Whittier] or vice versa). Ruby Princess offers 10-day Inside Passage cruises out of San Francisco, featuring the added bonus of the awe-inspiring sailaway under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and a port stop in Victoria.

Princess continues to enhance the award-winning North to Alaska program, bringing local Alaskans, culture, and fresh seafood on board and ashore to immerse guests in all things Alaska. From Cook My Catch to Puppies in the Piazza, to mountain climbers, new offerings for 2022, include: 

·      Professor Amy Butcher, award-winning author of “Mothertrucker: Finding Joy on the Loneliest Highway in America” and featured on NPR, BBC and in the Washington Post. Butcher will share her story of how she found meaning, strength and friendship when she joined the nation’s only female ice road trucker through the Alaska wilderness. 

·      Tom Kizzia, renowned Alaskan author, and journalist, including “Pilgrim’s Wilderness – A True Story of Faith and Madness on the Alaska Frontier.” His work has appeared in The New Yorker, New York Times, and Los Angeles Times. Kizzia reveals his passion for the Great Land through his local experiences as a reporter for the Anchorage Daily News and resident of Homer, Alaska. 

·      Alaska Beer & Spirits, including tasting flights, limited editions, seltzers, and local brewery tours. Cocktail offerings include Smoked Salmon Vodka Bloody Mary with Cinnamon, Glacial Ice Chilled Martinis and Alaska Spirits Flights sourced from local distilleries. 

·      Unique Wine and Seafood Pairings – fresh salmon, halibut, king crab specially paired with premium wines, only available in Alaska. 

·      Hot Beverages Experiences of upscale “spiked” hot chocolate recipes and hot mulled wine. 

On Canada and New England voyages, Princess sails from Quebec and New York visiting popular Canadian ports, including Halifax, Saint John (for the Bay of Fundy), Sydney (Cape Breton Island) and Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island). The 2022 season runs from July through October and features 16 departures and six unique itineraries on Enchanted Princess and Caribbean Princess. 

Princess Cruises delivers the ultimate in effortless, personalized cruising featuring the world-class dining and entertainment Princess is renowned for, all elevated with the Princess MedallionClass Experience. On all ships in the Princess fleet, it begins with the Medallion® , a quarter-sized, wearable device that enables everything from expedited contactless boarding to locating loved ones anywhere on the ship, as well as enhanced service like having whatever guests need, delivered directly to them, wherever they are on the ship. In addition, guests can share their favorite cruise moments using MedallionNet®, the best WiFi at sea, as well as stay connected with friends and family back home, work remotely anywhere on the ship, quickly post content and stream favorite movies, and shows.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.

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My review of Celebrity Apex

Cunard's Queen Anne: Designed with an Extraordinary New Vision

Created with an extraordinary new vision, Queen Anne showcases design expertise from the finest hospitality and accommodation ashore

VALENCIA, Calif., March 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the eagerly anticipated name reveal of Queen Anne on February 8th, Cunard now proudly introduces exciting details of the design. Queen Anne has been created with an extraordinary new vision, taking some of the finest talent of our time to write a striking new chapter in Cunard's a story inspired by the brand's remarkable past.

Designers David Collins Studio, Richmond International and Sybille de Margerie, working with the Creative Director Adam D. Tihany, are collaborating to create an extraordinary and thoughtful, modern approach to the venues, suites and décor design. The talents' portfolios include luxury hotels, spas, restaurants and bars, as well as high end yachts, and private grand residences. For the first time David Collins Studio and Sybille de Margerie are taking their land based expertise to the ship experience.

Meet the team behind this incredible journey, from design through to sailing: https://youtu.be/GH19JQUIwMU

The principle concept was founded on heritage, craftsmanship, storytelling, style and innovation. These five pillars ultimately became the design DNA for the ship, and accordingly, the engine of inspiration for the designers, working together in unison. Adam D. Tihany, Creative Director for Cunard, underscored how these five values would interplay: "Just the way a world-renowned orchestra delivers a feeling, or takes you to a moment or an era, Queen Anne's aesthetic would do the same in harkening Cunard's gilded age, but through the bold, onward lens of modernity."

The design teams tapped into the Cunard Archives, held at the University of Liverpool, sourcing a rich trove of historical documents and details on layout, materials, fabrics, patterns and textures. No stone was left unturned, from iconic poster advertisements, brochure covers and plans of grand spaces of Cunard's early deco inspired ships, to deliver a ship concept that rivals the finest in hospitality experienced on shore. Adam D. Tihany explains he crystallized the vision as an "enchanting bridge from Cunard's storied history to the future."

Simon Rawlings, Creative Director at David Collins Studio says of the design brief, "I was daunted by the scale, and multitude of venues to begin with, but as we started to unravel the journey, craft the experiences, and hone the vision, it all became clear. We wanted to create something nostalgic yet contemporary, relaxed yet glamorous, new and exciting – all within the constraints of a ship." Sybille de Margerie says, "We based the design on a sense of wonder, like a matchmaker at sea that introduces the past to its most alluring future."

““We based the design on a sense of wonder, like a matchmaker at sea that introduces the past to its most alluring future.””

"We worked very closely with the Cunard ship building team during the design process to gather as much knowledge as possible and also referred back to our extensive hospitality experience, where longevity and practicality are as important as the look and feel," explains Lewis Taylor, Design Director at David Collins Studio on the process. "We have added layers of architectural details and design codes that refer back to Cunard's history and that add a touch of whimsy and British eccentricity to the experiences. These architectural design elements along with the exquisite level of service on board, will make the new vessel truly unique."

The design DNA was first brought to life through the iconic Cunard Queens Grand Suites. The Queens Grill Grand Suites offer guests their own private residences on board and deliver a new level of exclusivity, with each finish carefully curated in every room. Designed by David Collins Studio, they represent the epitome of luxury accommodation at sea with a dedicated dining room and adjacent butler's pantry, walk-in wardrobes, marble finished bathrooms with views out to sea, a spacious bedroom and the largest balconies onboard. The Princess Grill Suites, designed by Sybille de Margerie, are warm, inviting and surrounded in the softest materials and delicate textures for an intimate experience featuring a bespoke dressing table and bar area with pattern wall panel inspired by the flowing lines of Cunard's past liners, sculpted ceiling panels and grand saloon carpets by textile designer, Corinne Hughes. While the Britannia balcony staterooms provide cozy sofa seating areas looking out to sea, and light, bright bathrooms with glass walk-in showers for a more relaxed, luxury experience.

A focal point for guests and the heart of the ship, the Grand Lobby, was designed to provide a show-stopping entrance, full of energy and light. Marking the transition from past to present, the area houses a contemporary metal mural sculpture that changes throughout the day by the lighting effect integrated within with an art deco leaning in homage to the 'Golden Age' of travel. The narrative is also keenly brought into play through the elevated entertainment spaces such as the vivid reimaging of the flagship Royal Court Theatre. The two-deck 825 seat space, designed by Richmond International, is inspired by the great sound halls of the world. All seating is of the utmost comfort and adorned in rich velvet providing each guest with a perfect view of the stage, where they may enjoy a wide variety of entertainment throughout the day and night. 

Each of the fifteen restaurants on board Queen Anne are distinctive where guests will enjoy a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. This is vividly reflected in the décor - from the strikingly grand Britannia Restaurant to the newly refined Golden Lion pub. A first in Cunard's fleet, Queen Anne will also exclusively reveal a new wellness and beauty concept never seen before on a Cunard vessel featuring the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa suite facilities with a contemporary, open and airy aesthetic.

Another vital aspect to the overall blueprint is the color palette which has been individually curated for every space to create a unique ambience in every setting. Bold new colors elevate the signature spaces and Queens Grill Suites, deep blues with flashes of golden yellow in the Britannia Staterooms have been chosen to reflect the sea and shimmer of sunlight and deep rich tones of red, amber and gold heighten the luxurious lounge feel of the Princess Grill Suites. For the Princess and Queens Grill restaurants, bright colors were chosen with elements of gold, to reinforce the luxurious but refined overall design aesthetic on board.  Simon Rawlings adds, "Anything tricky can date, anything too predictable can be tiresome and replicated, so keeping things fresh, unique and bold ensures the designs are timeless, and meet or exceed guest expectations. "

Another first for Cunard, the updated exterior of the ship will proudly sport the famous red funnel but also will debut a refined updated  livery, with a finessed design of the iconic crest and introduction of an elegant new font inspired by the grand ocean liners of the past, to confidently present the name Queen Anne on the forward bow.

Every Cunard ship is set to the highest interior design standard and Queen Anne epitomizes this approach. Lee Powell, Cunard Brand Vice President adds, "We've worked with world leading interior designers and fresh creative talent; we've discussed and tested our ideas with guests from around the world; and we've delved deep into the Cunard Archives to make sure we can truly celebrate what makes Cunard so unique."

Queen Anne will set sail in early 2024, with her maiden season programme available to book from May 2022.

For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Consultant, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.

For travel agents interested in further information, please contact your Business Development Manager, visit OneSource or call Cunard toll free at 1-800-528-6273.

Other themed press material available:

• Queen Anne An Elevated Travel Experience

• Queen Anne Name Selection with Kate Williams

• Queen Anne Captain Announcement

About Cunard
Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic, since 1840, celebrating an incredible 182 years of operation. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys for generations, Cunard is world class. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment and outstanding service. From five-star restaurants and in-suite dining to inspiring guest speakers, the library and film screenings, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. Destinations include Europe, the Caribbean, the Far East and Australia.

There are currently three Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria and a fourth ship, Queen Anne, will be entering service in early 2024. This investment is part of the company's ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally and will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.

Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK). 

Social Media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cunard
Twitter: www.twitter.com/cunardline
YouTube: www.youtube.com/wearecunard
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cunardline

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

INGER KLEIN THORHAUGE NAMED FIRST CAPTAIN OF NEW CUNARD SHIP QUEEN ANNE

CUNARD'S FIRST FEMALE CAPTAIN LEADS NEXT CHAPTER IN LUXURY OCEAN TRAVEL

VALENCIA, Calif., March 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the eagerly anticipated name reveal of Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne on February 8th, the luxury brand now introduces her first Captain, Inger Klein Thorhauge. Thorhauge will lead the team responsible for on board operations and take charge for the new Queen's maiden season.

"To be named as the first captain of Queen Anne is the greatest honor. It means the absolute world to me."

Thorhauge, Cunard's first female Captain, celebrates 25 years of service this year with the company and will sail Queen Anne from Italy, where she is currently being built, to Southampton ahead of her inaugural sailing in early 2024.

Thorhauge, who became Captain of Queen Victoria in 2010, started her career in 1997 as Second Officer on board Cunard's Vistafjord. Originally from the Faroe Islands, her career with the company has seen her travel the world many times over as captain of Queen Victoria and more recently Queen Elizabeth.

"I am very proud to be Cunard's first female captain, but to be named as the first captain of Queen Anne is the greatest honor. It means the absolute world to me to be a part of the next chapter of Cunard," Thorhauge comments. "I can't wait to see the reaction Queen Anne will receive from our guests when they first step on board, then to set sail and showcase our beautiful new ship to the world, visiting wonderful, and exciting ports! I can only begin to imagine the reception she will receive. When I discuss Queen Anne with Cunard crew it is so clear how excited and proud they are too, to welcome a new ship to the fleet. The crew are fundamental in delivering that quintessential Cunard experience, and I know they will continue to deliver the exceptionally high standards of our White Star Service on Queen Anne that our guests expect from us."

Sharing captain duties will be David Hudson who started his career with Cunard in 2006.

Itineraries for Queen Anne will be revealed in May 2022. Further news about Queen Anne's senior leadership team will be revealed over the coming months.

Meet Captain Thorhauge and the rest of the team behind Queen Anne's incredible journey, from design through to sailing - https://youtu.be/GH19JQUIwMU

For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Consultant, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.

For travel agents interested in further information, please contact your Business Development Manager, visit OneSource or call Cunard toll free at 1-800-528-6273.

Other themed press material available:

• Queen Anne An Elevated Travel Experience

• Designed with Extraordinary Vision

• Queen Anne Name Selection with Kate Williams

About Cunard
Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic, since 1840, celebrating an incredible 182 years of operation. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys for generations, Cunard is world class. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment and outstanding service. From five-star restaurants and in-suite dining to inspiring guest speakers, the library and film screenings, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. Destinations include Europe, the Caribbean, the Far East and Australia.

There are currently three Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria and a fourth ship, Queen Anne, will be entering service in early 2024. This investment is part of the company's ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally and will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.

Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK). 

Social Media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cunard 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/cunardline
YouTube: www.youtube.com/wearecunard 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cunardline

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

MSC CRUISES TO HOMEPORT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN NEW YORK CITY WITH YEAR-ROUND SAILINGS ON ONE OF WORLD’S BIGGEST AND MOST INNOVATIVE SHIPS

• MSC Cruises to offer year-round cruises from New York City starting April 2023

• MSC Meraviglia to sail itineraries including Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and the breathtaking Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

• Sales for the summer 2023 season open tomorrow

Geneva, Switzerland – March 8, 2022 – The world’s fastest-growing cruise brand will start sailing from New York City next year. MSC Cruises announced plans today to bring the modern and glamorous MSC Meraviglia to the Big Apple to offer year-round cruises, homeporting at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal starting in April of 2023 and making it easier than ever for guests to enjoy the stunning beauty of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

The announcement marks a significant milestone for MSC Cruises, the contemporary brand of the Cruise Division of MSC Group. It represents the first time one of the line’s ships will homeport in the northeastern United States year-round, and it further enhances the brand’s North American presence by complementing the rich choice of ships and itineraries out of PortMiami and Port Canaveral in the Orlando area.

On board MSC Meraviglia, guests will have a wide variety of vacation options, ranging from 6 to 11 nights, with destinations covering the Caribbean, Bermuda, New England and Canada. They can start booking summer 2023 cruises from New York City tomorrow, March 9, via MSCCruises.com or their preferred travel advisor.

Rubén Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “New York City was the natural choice when we picked our next U.S. port because it’s so accessible, whether the guest is coming from somewhere nearby or from around the world. We designed our mix of itineraries to take advantage of New York’s geographic flexibility, so that you can soak up the springtime sun in the Caribbean, head to Bermuda over the summer, or go north to see Canada’s natural beauty in the fall. MSC Meraviglia was a huge hit when she first came to New York in 2019. Our guests really appreciated the ship’s modern and glamorous features, as well as her state-of-the-art environmental technologies, and we are sure we’ll see strong demand when she returns.”

New York City Itinerary Highlights:

• Caribbean itineraries of either 7 or 8 nights, featuring calls in Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC Cruises’ beautiful private island in The Bahamas.

• Bermuda itineraries lasting 6 nights and offering three days docked at King’s Wharf combined with several relaxing days at sea.

• Northern itineraries of either 10 or 11 nights, featuring calls at Boston, Massachusetts; Portland, Maine; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick. (11-night itineraries include an additional call in Newport, Rhode Island.)

MSC Cruises’ entry into the Northeast is the latest example of the European-based line’s long-standing focus on the overall North American cruise market, which includes bringing more international travelers into the region and continuing to place its most advanced ships at U.S. ports. MSC Cruises is the fastest-growing cruise line in the world, on the back of an ambitious new-build plan that saw 7 highly innovative ships coming into service since 2017, including two in 2021 and two more arriving later this year.

Last year, the cruise line added Port Canaveral as a permanent homeport with a mix of 3, 4 and 7-night cruises aimed at maximizing options for easy getaways just a short drive from the Orlando area’s world-renowned mix of attractions. Further south, MSC Cruises is building the largest and most advanced cruise terminal in North America at PortMiami, which will be able to accommodate three of the line’s largest ships simultaneously once complete.

As the third-largest cruise brand worldwide—and market leader in Europe, South America and the Arabian Gulf region—MSC Cruises prides itself on offering international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. With this addition of New York City as an embarkation port, the line aims to attract even more North American guests as well as those from around the world.

About MSC Meraviglia

At 1,034 feet long and 214 feet tall, with an impressive 19 decks and capacity of up to 5,700 guests, MSC Meraviglia is a vacation destination in its own right—packed with innovative features to provide an unforgettable experience:

• 10 different types of staterooms to choose from, including solo cabins, popular balcony cabins, and stylish accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club (a luxury “ship within a ship” featuring butler service, along with exclusive restaurant, lounge and pool areas).

• Galleria Meraviglia, a promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars that stretches more than 300 feet and lined with an impressive LED sky screen.

• 20 bars and 12 restaurants, including the popular Butcher’s Cut steakhouse and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki.

• Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, along with a water park and ropes course.

• A variety of theatrical extravaganzas in our 985-seat theater.

• The extensive MSC Aurea Spa, providing massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, and a dedicated thermal area.

• 6,000 square-foot gym featuring state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym™.

• MSC Kids’ Club for children from 0-17 years old, with dedicated areas for babies, toddlers, children and teens, along with the Lego® Experience.

MSC Meraviglia is fitted with innovative technology and solutions to minimize her environmental footprint. These include an exhaust gas cleaning system for cleaner emissions; an advanced wastewater treatment system; smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC) to recover heat from machinery spaces; and LED lighting and smart devices to significantly save energy. This is all part of MSC Cruises' commitment to provide guests with the best vacation experiences at sea in a sustainable fashion.

To learn more about MSC Meraviglia, click here.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

MSC Cruises’ stunning private island destination in The Bahamas is the centerpiece of a breathtaking 64-square-mile marine reserve designed to connect guests with nature, making it the perfect spot to take a deep breath and relax. The island will be a highlight of many of MSC Meraviglia’sitineraries and offers white sandy beaches where chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas await guests for a relaxing day of soaking up the spirit of The Bahamas while surrounded by sweeping panoramas of crystal blue waters at every turn.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is home to the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Program, which aims to develop and refine methods to reverse the decline in coral reefs. The Foundation is working with scientists from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School and Nova Southeastern University to pioneer methods for rebuilding damaged reefs with coral species that are more resilient to environmental threats like ocean pollution and warming.

To learn more about Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, click here.

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THE VIKING MISSISSIPPI TOUCHES WATER IN LOUISIANA

Beginning This Summer, Viking is Bringing Modern River Voyages to the Mississippi

Los Angeles (March 7, 2022) – Viking® (www.viking.com) celebrated today that the new 386-guest Viking Mississippi® was “floated out” in Louisiana, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in June 2022, the Viking Mississippi will sail Viking’s highly-anticipated voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi River, between New Orleans and St. Paul. 

“It is a proud moment that this new ship has met an American waterway for the first time,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our guests have long wanted to sail the Mississippi River with Viking, and we very much look forward to welcoming them on board this summer. We are grateful to our American partner, Edison Chouest Offshore, who has helped bring to life our vision of exploring the Mississippi in the ‘Viking way.’”

The traditional float out took place at Edison Chouest Offshore’s LaShip shipyard in Houma, Louisiana and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. In keeping with maritime tradition, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, Dionne Chouest, General Counsel of Edison Chouest Offshore, assisted with the float out.

Viking’s arrival to the Mississippi will represent a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the river, with the new voyages expected to bring more than 7,500 guests to the region in 2022 and 17,600+ during the first full sailing season in 2023. Currently scheduled ports of call on Viking’s new Mississippi River itineraries comprise seven U.S. states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Red Wing, St. Paul).

The Viking Mississippi  

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all outside staterooms, the new state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and will feature elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. Purpose-built for the Mississippi, the five-deck ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern ship in the region. Highlights of the new ship include:

• All Outside Staterooms: Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Jr. Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite. All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and 24-hour room service.

• Viking Suites: The Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest true suites and the first-ever wraparound private verandas on the river. Every suite features two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room. Guests in Penthouse Jr. Suites (400 sq. ft.) and Terrace Suites (425 sq. ft.) receive early stateroom access; expanded double-sink bathroom; mini-bar with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily; welcome champagne; and laundry, pressing and shoe shine services. Guests in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 sq. ft. to 1,024 sq. ft) will also enjoy a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package.

• Explorers’ Lounge & The Bow: Familiar to Viking’s ocean guests as one of the most popular onboard public spaces, the Viking Mississippi will also feature an Explorers’ Lounge near the bow of the ship. The sun-filled, two-story Explorers’ Lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows that open to The Bow, a unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship where guests can relax and enjoy ever-changing riverside views.

• River Café: From American classics to Mamsen’s® Norwegian specialties, this indoor/outdoor dining venue on the top deck will offer alternative restaurant dining in a casual al fresco setting.

• Aquavit Terrace®: A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests, the Viking Mississippi will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space ideal for an American barbecue experience. Combined with the River Café, the Aquavit Terrace will provide the most al fresco dining on the Mississippi.

• Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool: Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, the Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while surrounded by their destination.

• The Living Room: Elegant Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. The Library, curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill as on all Viking vessels, is a quiet corner that is perfect for discovering a new book.

• The Restaurant: This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

• Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck: Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.

• Enrichment On Board and On Shore: A focus on cultural enrichment on board the Viking Mississippi means that guests will enjoy Destination Performances that represent the most iconic music of the region, such as New Orleans Jazz, Delta Blues and the Wisconsin Polka. Guest Lecturers will shed light on the region’s art, architecture, history, culture, natural world and more. And only The Viking Way® of exploration provides guests with itineraries that feature Local Life, Working World experiences and Privileged Access® experiences. On Viking’s Mississippi River itineraries, guests may choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities; or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.

• Environmentally Considerate: The Viking Mississippi is equipped with a variety of measures to maximize energy efficiency and emissions—including a diesel-electric propulsion system comprised of eight CAT C32 EPA Tier 4 diesel engines, each powering a 940 eKw water cooled generator; each engine/generator unit is individually mounted on a specially designed double raft isolation system that produces a remarkably quiet and smooth ride. Propulsion power is provided by Voith 6 blade propulsion thrusters driven by permanent magnet electric motors; pump jet bow thrusters are powered by permanent magnet motors; and a highly advanced exhaust scrubbing system significantly reduces sound and emissions.

• Viking Inclusive Value: Every Mississippi River fare includes everything guests need, with no surprises or hidden fees. Fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, and all port charges and government taxes. Guests also enjoy many complimentary amenities as part of their fare, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi.

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My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion