Swan Hellenic announces changes to 2022-2023 cruises in response to Ukraine crisis

SH Minerva sets new course with additional UK Celtic discovery sailings, while second ship SH Vega now due to launch in September and join her for next Antarctica season

Nicosia, Cyprus: Today, Monday the 21st of March 2022, Swan Hellenic announced a series of changes to its 2022-23 cultural expedition cruises, responding both to the tragic situation in Ukraine and ongoing COVID-related restrictions across the Far East. As a result, SH Minerva will now be sailing a new course into the Northern Hemisphere for a refocused Arctic season, preceded by new UK Celtic discovery cruises exploring unforgettable landscapes and unique cultures.

The cultural expedition cruise pioneer’s second purpose-built polar class expedition ship, the five-star SH Vega, is now scheduled to leave Helsinki Shipyard in September. She will then set a course directly for Argentina to join her twin ship for the 2022-23 Antarctic season, which remains unchanged, retaining the itineraries that were so highly acclaimed in SH Minerva’s maiden cruises.

All the new and revised cruise itineraries are now presented in full detail on the Swan Hellenic website: www.swanhellenic.com.

“Like the cruise industry as a whole, we’ve moved fast in response to the tragic situation in Ukraine,” said Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito. “While apologising to our guests for the disappointment this has caused and grateful for their understanding, we’re very proud of the exciting new itineraries and opportunities we’ve created for them to continue seeing what others don't.”

About Swan Hellenic

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in July 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company pioneered in the 1950s. Building on its British roots, the new company has a global cultural cruising outlook dedicated to providing guests with the opportunity to ‘see what others don’t’.

Swan Hellenic's purpose-built ships feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces and dedicated expedition facilities. SH Minerva and SH Vega, two new 5-star Polar Code PC 5 expedition cruise ships with ice-strengthened hulls, respectively launched in December 2021 and arriving in May 2022, each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious suites and staterooms, the majority with large balconies. A slightly larger PC 6 ice-class vessel accommodating 192 guests in the same distinctive comfort and style in 96 staterooms and suites will be arriving in early 2023.

All three ships feature 3 dining venues – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool bar & Grill – and 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.

The crews each include a team of 12 seasoned expedition guides, expert speakers and lecturers, for a total complement of 120 and 140 persons respectively, offering outstanding staff-to-guest ratios to deliver the highest standards of attentive personal service.

Headquartered in Cyprus with offices in London, Dusseldorf, Monaco, Fort Lauderdale (serving the North America market), Hong Kong (serving Greater China and South-East Asia), Sydney (serving Australia-New Zealand) and Copenhagen (serving Scandinavia and Iceland), as well as partnerships serving India and Japan, Swan Hellenic supports the travel trade with specialist local partners to provide customers with expert personal service worldwide.

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

or call +44 (0) 207 846 0271

For Swan Hellenic, please contact:

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

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My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

CBS AND NETWORK 10 JOINTLY ANNOUNCE SERIES ORDERS FOR THE NEW DATING ADVENTURE SHOW “THE REAL LOVE BOAT”

Inspired by the Classic Hit Scripted Series “The Love Boat,” the New Reality Romance Series Sets Sail on Princess Cruises in the U.S. and Australia in 2022 

U.S. network CBS and Australian broadcaster Network 10 jointly announced today they have ordered localized versions of THE REAL LOVE BOAT, a reality dating competition series inspired by “The Love Boat,” the hit 1970s scripted series that used Princess Cruises ships as its setting. Production begins summer 2022, and both versions are expected to air in the U.S. and Australia later this year. 

The “The Love Boat” IP is owned by CBS Studios which, along with CBS and Network 10, are Paramount Global brands.

“‘The Love Boat’ is a timeless, romantic concept with universal appeal, and we’re excited to reimagine this popular series for audiences in two different countries,” said George Cheeks, president and chief executive officer of CBS, and head of global content strategy for Paramount’s free-to-air networks, including Network 10. “On the heels of NCIS: SYDNEY, today’s announcement is another example of our global franchise strategy to use our rich intellectual property and vast international footprint to develop new content for viewers around the world.”

THE REAL LOVE BOAT brings singles together to cruise the Mediterranean on a luxury cruise ship while looking for love. Destination dates, challenges and surprise singles will test the couples’ compatibility and chemistry. Like the beloved original scripted series, the indispensable crew members including “captain” and “cruise director” will play pivotal roles in the matchmaking and navigation of the romantic (and sometimes turbulent) waters ahead.

After almost a month at sea, only one winning couple will make it to the final port and take home a cash prize plus a once-in-a-lifetime trip courtesy of Princess Cruises, the series’ exclusive cruise line partner.

Beverley McGarvey, executive vice president and chief content officer of Paramount Australia and New Zealand, said, “‘The Love Boat’ was synonymous with exotic locations, glamour, excitement and of course romantic connections underpinned by wonderful comic tales. THE REAL LOVE BOAT will encompass all of this and more. A dating show showcasing suspense, exhilaration, humor and love as it sets sail for romantic adventures.” 

“Audiences really connected with the fun and escapism of ‘The Love Boat,’” said Mitch Graham, senior vice president, alternative programming, CBS. “The iconic series embodied the many possibilities of people making new, meaningful connections. Reimagining it as a dating show with competition, adventure and romance makes THE REAL LOVE BOAT an ideal fit for our schedule and viewers.”

“The Love Boat’ has been synonymous with the Princess brand for more than 45 years since the world was introduced to glamour and elegance of the Princess experience,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “We look forward to millions coming aboard our iconic ships as we are expecting you on THE REAL LOVE BOAT.”

CBS and Network 10 are casting for their local versions.

Click HERE for CBS casting information.

Click HERE for Network 10 casting information.

THE REAL LOVE BOAT is produced by Eureka Productions in association with Buster Productions. Chris Culvenor, Paul Franklin, and Wes Dening serve as executive producers for Eureka.

About Paramount Global

Paramount delivers premium content to audiences across platforms worldwide. We connect with billions of people—through our studios, networks, streaming services, live events, merchandise, and more. Our studios create content for all audiences, across every genre and format, while our networks and brands forge deep connections with the world’s most diverse audiences. In streaming, our differentiated strategy is scaling rapidly across free, broad pay, and premium.

About CBS Entertainment

CBS Entertainment is responsible for acquiring or developing and scheduling the entertainment programming presented on the CBS Television Network, which includes primetime comedy and drama series, reality-based programming, specials, children’s programs, daytime dramas, game shows, talk shows and late night programs.

About Network 10

Network 10 is a leader in premium escapist content, for the young and young at heart that entertains and engages. It’s content that gets people talking across all platforms. Network 10 boasts a rich viewing ecosystem with four free-to-air television channels in 10, 10 Peach, 10 Bold and 10 Shake, and catch-up on demand service 10 Play.

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My review of Celebrity Apex

Princess Cruises Expands Sales Leadership, Welcomes Almaguer and Roig as Top Executives

Cal Almaguer Named Sr Vice President, Sales and Service Strategy and Operations

Carmen Roig Joins Princess as Vice President of Sales

Two New Executives Strengthens Travel Agency Sales Efforts and Service Excellence

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (March 22, 2022) – Princess Cruises today announced a significant enhancement to its sales and service operation with the addition of two seasoned cruise travel trade executives. Cal Almaguer, a 38-year veteran of the cruise and travel industry, has joined the world’s leading international cruise line in the new role of senior vice president, sales and service strategy and operations, along with Carmen Roig who is joining Princess as its new vice president of sales. 

“The addition of two exceptional sales, service and operations leaders like Cal and Carmen demonstrates our commitment to providing best-in-class service to the travel trade while modernizing the Princess omni-channel sales capabilities that will expose Princess to broader audiences and drive cruise bookings,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Under their leadership, Princess will elevate sales performance through unmatched trade relations and the deployment of new sales tool innovations in partnership with our Princess Experience and Innovation development team."

Almaguer brings extensive cruise and travel industry sales experience as well as contact center expertise following his more than 20 years with Disney Destinations, and he will oversee all Princess sales and vacation product distribution channels as well as the company’s contact center operations, reporting directly to Princess President John Padgett. Almaguer previously led the domestic sales force supporting Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii, and also ran operations for Disney’s contact centers and travel company operations. His extensive cruise background also has included sales roles with Norwegian Cruise Line and Windstar Cruises, prior to joining Disney Cruise Line as a member of the launch team.

"Cal’s impressive career leading critical sales channels for some of the most dynamic vacation companies in the world is built on his passion for exceptional guest experience, belief in the power of the travel agency community and omnichannel consumer engagement,” said Padgett. “His deep understanding of the travel trade and enduring relationships, coupled with his extensive contact center experience make him the right strategic leader for our increasing sales efforts.”  

“It’s an honor to be a part of the Princess brand, which is clearly at the forefront of guest experience innovation,” said Almaguer. “My focus will be to expand the principals of the Princess MedallionClass experience grounded in personalized and hassle-free service to all consumer and travel trade interactions.”

Joining Almaguer will be Roig, a venerable industry sales, marketing and community leader who now will direct Princess’s trade relationships, lead business development teams, and also serve as the sales authority across all Princess sales modalities including web, contact centers and onboard. In addition, Roig will bring new and innovative products and services to the trade that will enhance trade earning potential and expand Princess brand consumer demand. After more than 30 years of marketing, sales, and cruise industry experience, including the past six heading marketing and sales for Crystal Cruises, she is returning to the Carnival Corporation family after beginning her career with Carnival Cruise Line in 1981. Roig also previously held sales roles with Azamara Club Cruises and Costa Cruises.

“Carmen’s proven track record of developing and implementing fully integrated and multi-dimensional sales and marketing campaigns with key accounts as well as leading high-performance teams matches perfectly with our desire to further energize our trade and overall sales efforts,” said Almaguer. “With Carmen at the helm, Princess is strongly positioned to elevate sales strategies, intensify channel engagement and maximize revenue productivity.” 

After 29 years with Princess, seven of those overseeing travel agency sales, John Chernesky will become a Princess brand champion, a role that blends his considerable experience, industry relationships and media influence with his passion for social media and promotion. An early adopter and leader in the application of social media tools to maintain channel relationships, Chernesky will now be fully focused on heralding the Princess brand to consumers and trade with continuous social media engagement and activation at special events and new product launches.  

“John’s unique ability to engage, inform and entertain both guests and travel industry partners alike, developed through many years sailing on Princess ships and managing travel agency sales makes him the perfect choice for a brand champion with a voice naturally infused with credibility and authenticity,” Padgett said.

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My review of Celebrity Apex

GLOBAL ADVENTURER, MOUNTAINEER AND POLAR-EXPLORER, ALISON LEVINE NAMED GODMOTHER OF NEW SEABOURN VENTURE

 From the highest peaks to the decks of a new ship, Levine will preside over the naming ceremony of Seabourn’s first expedition vessel 

SEATTLE, March 17, 2022 – Seabourn, the ultra-luxury expedition experience, is delighted to announce that global adventurer, mountaineer and polar-explorer Alison Levine will serve as Godmother of Seabourn Venture, the first of the line’s two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition vessels. Levine will be on board and in the spotlight for the traditional naming and christening of the ship, which is set to launch in July 2022.  

“With her extraordinary history of travel and adventure, familiarity with the most striking of destinations, and her deep roots in the expedition world, Alison is a perfect choice to send Seabourn Venture off to explore the most-remote corners of the globe,” said Josh Leibowitz, president of Seabourn. “We are excited for Alison to take the mantle as Godmother of our first expedition vessel, and we’re certain she will embrace her role with the same passion she brings to everything she does.”

“I am truly honored and beyond excited to have been asked to become Godmother of Seabourn Venture and to be part of the line’s new chapter in expedition cruising,” said Levine. “I’m thrilled to be representing a company that embodies what the true adventure and expedition spirit is all about.”

Levine is an idyllic choice for Godmother of Seabourn Venture, which is being built to seek out adventure and natural wonders around the world. A native of Phoenix, she served as team captain of the first American Women’s Everest Expedition in 2002, and in 2010 completed her bid for the Explorer’s Grand Slam which includes climbing the Seven Summits – the highest peak on each continent – as well as skiing to the North and South Poles.

Levine has also seen success in the business world. She earned her MBA from Duke University and worked in the pharmaceutical industry as well as on Wall Street with Goldman Sachs. After turns as deputy finance director for Arnold Schwarzenegger’s successful bid to become Governor of California and as an adjunct professor in the Department of Behavioral Sciences & Leadership at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, she went on to become one of the world’s most in-demand leadership consultants and keynote speakers. She is the author of the New York Times bestseller, “On the Edge: Leadership Lessons from Mount Everest and Other Extreme Environments”, which chronicles the lessons she learned on her various expeditions. In 2019 she received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, an award she shares with seven U.S. Presidents and numerous Nobel Prize winners.

Levine has also shared her experiences, insights and tales of adventure with guests of Seabourn through Seabourn Conversations, the line’s popular onboard enrichment program, aboard Seabourn Sojourn in December 2019. It was her first-ever cruise – a trip she never thought she would do – but she admits she is hooked and looks forward to more travels by ship in the future.  

Seabourn Venture and its sister expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, will feature 132 luxurious oceanfront veranda suites and take travelers to some of the most awe-inspiring places in the world, some of which are only accessed by ship.  Further information on the new ships, suites and public spaces of the ship can be found here. Itineraries for the first season of travel aboard Seabourn Venture are now open for booking on the Seabourn website.

Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury travel. The line’s all-inclusive, boutique ships offer: all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe travel, visiting with more than 400 ports including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. 

Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers. 

For more details about the award-winning Seabourn fleet, or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, contact a professional travel advisor, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit www.seabourn.com.

About Seabourn:

Ultra-luxury Seabourn currently operates a fleet of five modern ships with two under construction and is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. The exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, AIDA, P&O Cruises UK, and P&O Cruises Australia. Seabourn is a brand of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL and NYSE: CUK).  Our highest responsibility and top priorities are compliance, environmental protection and the health, safety and well-being of our guests, crew, shoreside employees, and the people and communities our ships visit.

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

Global Pop Superstar Katy Perry Named Godmother of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Newest Ship, Norwegian Prima

-Katy Will Perform at Christening Ceremony in Reykjavík, Iceland on

August 27, 2022, Where Norwegian Prima Will Become the First Ship

Christened at the Icelandic Capital City-

MIAMI (March 17, 2022) - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, announced today that world famous pop icon and "American Idol" judge Katy Perry will serve as the godmother to its record-breaking and innovative newest ship,Norwegian Prima, debuting August 2022.

As godmother, Perry will not only fulfill the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Prima, the first of six vessels in the Prima Class, but she will perform during the christening ceremony before Norwegian Prima sets sail on its inaugural voyages from Reykjavík, Iceland, where the vessel will be the first major cruise ship christened in the Icelandic capital.

A vital and familiar element of any ship launch and dating back centuries, the highly regarded tradition of appointing a ship’s godmother is a fundamental nautical custom during which the selected godmother officiates a ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle on the ship’s bow to bid the vessel and its travelers good fortune.

"We are so excited to welcome Katy Perry, a one-of-a-kind artist and worldwide sensation, as godmother of Norwegian Prima," said Harry Sommer, President and CEO of NCL. "We are so incredibly proud that she will be part of the Norwegian Cruise Line family and look forward to launching our beautiful, innovative ship with her in August."

"My most favorite way to vacation with my family is on the water. Every morning that you wake up, you get to experience an incredible new view," said Katy Perry. "I love that I get to christen her with my good vibrations, and I’m so excited for this new, beautiful, high-end, high-tech ship to take the seas, and provide once-in-a-lifetime vacations for so many families."

Norwegian Prima is the company’s most in-demand vessel ever launched, delivering world-class service, thoughtful design, unforgettable itineraries, and an unrivaled guest experience.

While on board, guests can escape to Ocean Boulevard, featuring multiple infinity pools and Oceanwalk glass bridges with breathtaking ocean and destination views, visitIndulge, the Brand’s first-ever upscale international dining open-air marketplace or relax on The Concourse, featuring an outdoor sculpture garden boasting "Instagrammable" installations by famed artists David Harber and Alexander Krivosheiw. Designed by the master architects at Piero Lissoni, the ship’s revamped luxurious centralized suite complex, The Haven By Norwegian will feature 107 staterooms spanning eight decks with a stunning new infinity pool overlooking the ship's wake and a new outdoor spa with a glass-walled sauna and cold room. Most recently, NCL unveiled its remaining culinary and beverage offerings available on Norwegian Prima and Viva, including the Brand’s first sustainably-focused lounge, The Metropolitan and its ultra-upscale Mediterranean seafood specialty restaurant Palomar.

Launching August 2022, Norwegian Prima will offer inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from Southampton, England; Amsterdam; and Reykjavík, Iceland beginning Aug.12; Bermuda sailings from New York City beginning Oct. 6; and Caribbeanitineraries from Galveston, Texas and Miami beginning Oct. 27. 

To commemorate this exciting partnership and celebrating other entertainment headliners that will be featured on Norwegian Prima, NCL has put together a celebratory Spotify playlist. For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line or to book a cruise, please visit www.ncl.com, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or contact a travel professional. For Norwegian Prima’s press kit and assets, click here.

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Explora Journeys partners with Travelife as part of pledge to build a sustainable future

Geneva, Switzerland – March 17, 2022 – Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle travel brand of the MSC Group, announced a partnership today with Travelife for Tour Operators, the internationally-leading training, management and certification program for sustainability in tourism.

Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys said: “Working toward more sustainable travel experiences for our guests is an important part of our vision to become a truly defining and desired luxury lifestyle travel brand.

“Our deep respect for the ocean is the principal component of our journey and, out of a deep respect for local communities, our destination experiences are being designed to leave a positive impression and footprint.

“We are committed in this regard to work toward building and maintaining a mutual understanding and firm commitment to sustainable tourism and so I am delighted, therefore, to partner with Travelife, who can help us, our tour operators and travel advisor colleagues to achieve our ambition.”

Explora Journeys’ aim is to create a strong awareness among its partners when it comes to effective sustainability planning, maximizing social and economic benefits for the local communities its ships will visit, enhancing cultural heritage, and reducing environmental impact.

Naut Kusters, General Manager, Travelife, said: “Travelife’s sustainability management system naturally complements Explora Journeys’ commitment to create sustainable destination experiences. DMCs, tour operators, travel advisors and ports are integral to support any sustainable implementation and they will be encouraged with education and incentives. We applaud Explora Journeys for its efforts to promote holistic sustainability.”

The partnership with Travelife allows all Explora Journeys’ tour operators and partner travel advisors with free access to the Travelife online platform to provide a range of benefits toward sustainable tourism. Additional face-to-face trainings are provided in European destinations in the frame of the EU supported SUSTOUR project.

These include a comprehensive learning platform with 16 on-demand sustainability modules, which include final exams and certification upon completion of each module; activity-specific excursion checklists that meet internationally recognized sustainability standards; practical reporting and action planning tools for the effective implementation of sustainability practices; and best practice examples from the travel and tourism industry.

In September 2021, the Cruise Division of MSC Group reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to sustainability by pledging to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its cruise marine operations by 2050. The target covers both Explora Journeys and MSC Cruises and goes beyond ambitions laid out by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organisation to achieve a 50 percent reduction in emissions from shipping by 2050 when compared to 2008.

The luxury brand’s sister company, MSC Cruises, has partnered with Travelife for Tour Operators since 2018. To learn more about Travelife, please visit www.travelife.info.

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

Cunard's London Theatre at Sea voyage to be Headlined by Olivier Award Winning Actress Sharon D. Clarke MBE

VALENCIA, Calif., March 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury cruise line Cunard will stage its first London Theatre at Sea with the Olivier Awards voyage, curated by Society of London Theatre's Chief Executive, Julian Bird, this May.

Sailing from New York to London on board flagship Queen Mary 2, the exclusive voyage will feature performances from some of the theatre world's finest talent, including Oliver Award for Best Actress winner, Sharon D. Clarke MBE, Olivier Award for Best Actor winner Matt Henry MBE, film, theatre and television actress and producer, Susie McKenna and Conductor and Orchestrator Larry Blank.

“This spectacular voyage will feature inspiring performances, industry talks and workshops aboard our iconic ocean liner.”

— Quote Source

The seven-night crossing, which departs New York on May 15, 2022, will be supported with a roster of workshops, talks and Q&As from industry insiders.

Guests will be able to take part in acting masterclasses with performers and learn the tricks of the trade from luminaries such as Andreane Neofitou, the costume designer behind Les Misérables and Miss Saigon.

For the first time, Cunard will be introducing an "Oliviers Gala Evening," which will feature entertainment from headliners throughout the evening, as well as a never-seen-before show, "Olivier Awards in Concert" that has been created for this voyage by Society of London Theatre's Julian Bird. The concert will take place in the Royal Court Theatre and pay homage to the Olivier Awards' last 45 years in a dazzling one-off production with cast and orchestra.

Sharon D. Clarke MBE said, "To come back after the last couple of years and celebrate theatre in all its glory, alongside my wife Susie McKenna, our industry friends and peers - and those who love and support theatre, on my first ever voyage, will be utter bliss."

Susie Mckenna said "I am so looking forward to performing on Queen Mary 2. I can think of nothing better that sailing the Atlantic whilst championing all things theatre with my wife Sharon D. Clarke. It will be a joy to celebrate, entertain and thank the people who have supported our industry as audience members and hopefully give them insight into the workings of our art forms."

Lee Powell, Vice President of Cunard Brand and Product, said, "After years of planning, we are delighted to welcome the first London Theatre at Sea on board flagship Queen Mary 2. This spectacular voyage will feature any theatre lover's dream of inspiring performances, industry talks and workshops alongside the myriad of other unique experiences offered by our iconic ocean liner. It's sure to make for a truly magical Transatlantic Crossing that our guests will remember forever."

The London Theatre at Sea with the Olivier Awards Transatlantic Crossing is priced from $799 per person for an Inside stateroom. Grill Suites are priced from $4,299 per person.

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

For additional information about Cunard, contact:
Jackie Chase, Cunard, 310.926.7686, jchase@cunard.com

About Olivier Awards

Cunard is delighted to be supporting the "Best Revival" category at the Olivier Awards, which will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on April 10 2022, hosted by Jason Manford and broadcast on ITV and Magic Radio. Established in 1976 by the Society of London Theatre, the Olivier Awards are London theatre's biggest and most prestigious night. This year's event, the first full-scale ceremony since 2019, has a sustainability focus - guests will be walking a "Green Carpet" made of real, reusable grass, and Mastercard have pledged to plant a tree for every public ticket sold via Priceless.com

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

MSC CRUISES’ MSC GRANDIOSA NOW FULLY DEDICATED TO THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS FOR SUMMER 2022

• Ship to offer stand-out 7-night itineraries to the spectacular Norwegian Fjords from its homeport in Kiel, Germany

• Ship’s highly advanced environmental technologies allow for sailing in protected region

• MSC Grandiosa cruises on sale now for sailings from May 7 through September 3

Geneva, Switzerland – March 16, 2022 – MSC Cruises announced today that MSC Grandiosa will be fully dedicated to the Norwegian Fjords for the entire summer 2022 season. This sees one of the cruise line’s most modern and environmentally advanced ships offering stand-out 7-night itineraries in one of the most stunning regions in Northern Europe. As a result, MSC Cruises will offer an unparalleled choice of itineraries to guests wanting to discover this unique part of the world, as MSC Preziosa and MSC Poesia offer additional seven-night options alongside MSC Grandiosaacross the Norwegian Fjords region this summer.

MSC Grandiosa will perform spectacular seven-night itineraries from Kiel, Germany calling at the colourful capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen. The ship then heads north to Norway, calling at the breath-taking village of Hellesylt while experiencing the splendour of Sunnylvsfjord. Guests will then sail through Aurlandsfjord on the way to the panoramic port town of Alesund and the stunning Flam village. To explore MSC Grandiosa’s summer 2022 itineraries, click here.

MSC Cruises had previously confirmed that the Line would suspend calls to St. Petersburg, Russia. As such, MSC Grandiosa will now be fully dedicated to the Fjords region, while MSC Poesia and MSC Preziosa will still call in the Baltics but with calls at St. Petersburg replaced by other popular destinations in the region like Stockholm, Tallin and Visby. MSC Cruises is contacting travel agents and guests affected by the updated itineraries for all three ships.

Guests originally booked on one of MSC Grandiosa’s former itinerary in the Baltics and still wishing to experience a cruise there can opt for one of the summer 2022 itineraries on MSC Poesis or MSC Preziosa instead:

• MSC Magnifica – Sailing 10 to 14-night itineraries from Hamburg, Germany with calls to destinations including Kristiansand, Narvik, Longyearbyen, Honningsvag, Nordfjordeid, Molde Fjord, Maloy and others from April 27 through August 21. For details, click here.

• MSC Virtuosa – From Southampton, UK, alongside cruises south, the ship will also offer a number of 7 and 12-night itineraries with calls to destinations including Haugesund, Flaam, Olden, Maloy, Nordfjordeid, Molde Fjord and others from May 13 through September 3. For details, click here.

Additionally, MSC Virtuosa will offer three longer cruises of 12 and 14 nights, sailing from Southampton, UK to destinations including Oslo, Copenhagen, Tallinn, Helsinki, Visby and Skagen on June 11, July 16 and September 24.

About MSC Grandiosa:

State-of-the-art environmental technology

On top of environmental innovations such as exhaust gas cleaning systems, advanced waste management and ballast water treatment, MSC Grandiosa features next-generation selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and advanced wastewater treatment (AWT) systems which helps further reduce the ship’s environmental impact. This combination of technologies allows the ship to visit some of these stunning destinations, such as the heritage fjords of Hellesylt and Flaam in Norway.

A ship for the whole family

The 19-deck MSC Grandiosa offers guests of all ages the very best variety of restaurants, world-class entertainment, relaxing bars and lounges, boutique shopping, spa services, fitness centers, a water park, and clubs for toddlers to teenagers. The ship’s showstopping feature is its iconic promenade with a stunning LED sky dome, stretching nearly 400 feet and forming the social heart and hub of the ship.

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VIKING EXPANDS EUROPEAN RIVER FLEET WITH NAMING OF EIGHT NEW SHIPS AND MARKS BEGINNING OF 2022 RIVER SEASON

New Viking Longships Further Increase Offerings on the Seine, Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers

Los Angeles (March 16, 2022) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today welcomed eight new river ships to its award-winning fleet during a celebration in Paris. Of the eight new Viking Longships®, four ships – Viking Fjorgyn, Viking Kari, Viking Radgrid and Viking Skaga – are built specifically to navigate the Seine River and bring guests to the heart of Paris with an exclusive docking location at Port de Grenelle, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. The four additional ships – Viking Egdir, Viking Gersemi, Viking Gymir and Viking Hervor – will sail Viking’s popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. 

The naming of the new river ships comes as Viking continues its 25th anniversary and a year of multiple milestones. In January 2022, the company launched Viking Expeditions and its first Polar Class vessel, the Viking Octantis®. By the end of the year, Viking will have also welcomed a second identical expedition ship, as well as two new identical ocean ships, new purpose-built vessels for the Nile and Mekong rivers and new Mississippi River voyages. 

“As we mark 25 years of sailing the iconic waterways of the world, it is always a proud day when we welcome new ships to our fleet and offer more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Today we are especially pleased to honor eight talented and accomplished individuals as godmothers of our newest river ships, and we look forward to the start of another season of European river voyages.”

Viking Naming Ceremony

In keeping with maritime tradition that dates back thousands of years, Viking invited eight distinguished cultural partners and important members of the company’s extended family to serve as ceremonial godmothers of the new ships. The honored godmothers include:

• Alma Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Gymir – A musical phenomenon, Alma captivates the classical world with her talents as a violinist, pianist, composer and conductor, and at just 17 years old was hailed as the “new Mozart” at an early age. She recently appeared on an episode of Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV (Anne Diamond Welcomes Back Composer and Musician Alma Deutscher), where she discussed her upcoming concert series, which will be exclusive for Viking guests on select river voyages visiting Vienna.

• Helen Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Egdir – A violinist, pianist and vocalist, Helen is an accomplished musician who honed her musical and performance skills at the Music Gymnasium in Vienna and as a member of the Vienna State Opera’s children’s chorus; she has also performed in several productions of her sister Miss Alma Deutscher’s opera, Cinderella. Helen and Alma recently appeared together on an episode of Viking.TV (Anne Diamond Interviews Classical Musicians, Alma & Helen Deutscher) where they discussed their remarkable lives and many musical milestones.

• Dr. Janie Deutscher, Godmother of Viking Radgrid – An author and educator, Dr. Deutscher is also an accomplished musician and earned an organ scholarship to Oxford University where she later taught medieval literature; in recent years, she has concentrated on homeschooling and supporting the musical ambitions of her two daughters, Alma and Helen, godmothers of Viking Gymir and Viking Egdir, respectfully.

• Brenda Hunsberger, Godmother of Viking Hervor – For more than four decades, Ms. Hunsberger, Senior Vice President of Travel Services with AAA Club Alliance, has worked in the industry as an accomplished travel agent; she believes in the power of travel to transform perspectives and change lives.

• Karryn Christopher, Godmother of Viking Gersemi – Ms. Christopher is Executive Vice President of Preferred Partnerships & Marketing for Signature Travel Network, a member-owned travel cooperative established in 1956, where she has led the transformation of the company’s sales and marketing division.

• Ghislaine Wood, Godmother of Viking Fjorgyn – As the Deputy Director of the University of East Anglia’s Sainsbury Centre, one of the most important public university art galleries in Great Britain, Ms. Wood carefully curates exhibitions, including the upcoming “Visions of Ancient Egypt,” which was developed in partnership with Viking; opening in September 2022, the exhibit will honor the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Ms. Wood discussed her work at the Sainsbury Centre in a recent episode of Viking.TV (Explore Alaskan Objects at the Sainsbury Centre with Ghislaine Wood), including the origins of their Alaska collection which examines how indigenous Alaskan communities developed technologies and tools to adapt to their environment.

• Muriel Wilson, Godmother of Viking Skaga – As the Director of Event Strategy & Sponsorships for Virtuoso, Ltd., Ms. Wilson has been a distinguished staff member of the global network of agencies for more than 40 years and leverages her deep knowledge of the industry to develop quality hospitality and travel experiences for Virtuoso’s travel advisors and preferred partners.

• Kari Garmann, Godmother of Viking Kari – Former member of The Parliament of Norway and Oslo City Council, Ms. Garmann has made valuable contributions to Norway in the areas of government, business and banking throughout her career.

The naming event was executed by connecting the new ships via satellite across two European cities: Paris and Amsterdam. TheViking Fjorgyn, Viking Kari, Viking Radgrid and Viking Skaga were docked in Paris at the Port de Grenelle, where they were named by their godmothers. The other four ships – Viking Egdir, Viking Gersemi, Viking Gymir and Viking Hervor – were docked in Amsterdam and named by their godmothers, who also joined the celebration in Paris. In keeping with another maritime tradition, a bottle of Gammel Opland aquavit was broken on the bow of each new ship. Gammel Opland hails from the same county in Norway where Chairman Hagen’s mother, Ragnhild – also lovingly known as “Mamsen” – was born and was her favorite brand of aquavit. More information on the history of ship naming ceremonies and the special role that godmothers play can be found in a recent episode of Viking.TV (Explore the Role of a Ship’s Godmother, a Revered Nautical Tradition), hosted by Viking Executive Vice President Karine Hagen.

This year Viking will offer guests a Privileged Access® performance led by Alma Deutscher at Vienna’s illustrious Wiener Konzerthaus. She will conduct the historic Strauss Capelle orchestra and perform the music of Mozart, the waltzes of Strauss on the violin and her own compositions. 

New Offerings on the Seine

              Building on Viking’s offerings in Paris and the four new Viking Longships sailing the Seine River, the company has announced today a new post-trip extension entitled Paris: A Culinary Experience that will explore the cuisine of the French capital. Available beginning in 2023 for guests sailing on the 8-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy itinerary, the new extension allows guests to immerse themselves in the culinary history of Paris and taste the gastronomic delights the city has to offer. Guests on the 3-night extension will disembark their ship in Paris and explore the city with a culinary guide, visiting the “Belly of Paris” and the Rue Montorgueil, home to the city’s firstpâtisserie, before checking into their hotel. The following day, guests will visit a Parisian cooking school to attend a croissant baking workshop with a local chef and learn about the pastry’s origins, before enjoying an evening wine and cheese tasting with an expert sommelier at a private wine cellar. On the final day, guests journey to the Jacquemart-André Museum for a tour of the 19th century mansion and its private art collection followed by a special workshop delving into the art of table etiquette. Each day allows ample free time for guests to explore iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées from their centrally located hotel.

              Additionally, Viking has announced a new holiday sailing, the 8-day Christmas on the Seine, sailing roundtrip from Paris. Available during the holiday season beginning in 2022, guests will sail through Normandy’s snow-covered countryside while enjoying the festive Christmas markets. Guests can select from holiday-centric shore excursions such as baking homemade gingerbread at the 850-year-old Abbaye du Valasse or attending a festive Christmas ornament making workshop in Rouen. Onboard, guests will enjoy special holiday-themed festivities including regional dining specialties, seasonal treats and more. 

Booking Details

              From now through March 31, 2022, Viking is offering special savings plus airfare from $599 on all 2022 and 2023 departures ofParis & the Heart of Normandy. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent for details.

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My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

UnCruise Adventures Announces “Break Up with Boring” Brand Campaign to Unleash the Un-Ordinary in Everyone

The Campaign Focuses on Everyday Experiences to Engage Guests in Future Travel Inspiration 

JUNEAU, AK, March 14th, 2022 – Small ship cruise line, UnCruise Adventures, voted best adventure cruise line, today, announced its 2022 integrated ad campaign to inspire future travelers to break up with the ordinary. The campaign amplifies the success of the brand’s [F]UnCruise adventure ingredient that differentiates them from other small ship operations. From an updated look and feel to exceptional WAVE season offers, the brand delivers what travelers want with small group adventures. 

The playful video and ad creatives will appear across online and streaming video, connected TV, digital partnerships, audio, podcast, and social channels, along with key media partners and other targeted ad properties. Continuing into 2022 with travel variables, UnCruise Adventures recognizes people want to come back to life with connections and real moments in travel. The brand campaign invites travelers to create their own breakup with boring moments of self-expression and share them with the hashtag #breakupwithboring in their social media. 

“We live and breathe our guest’s experience and believe in the adventures we share with them,” said UnCruise Adventures, CEO, Dan Blanchard. “This campaign celebrates our adventure product and our brand’s strong comeback in 2021 as a small business, now even stronger in 2022. We want to bring ‘break up with boring’ to life. It’s something that reinforces what we believe in and what people experience in our adventures, every single time.” 

According to Market Research, the adventure tourism market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 26.7% through 2030, making soft adventure travel among one of the fastest-growing sectors in the market. UnCruise Adventures recognizes the global market and as a leader in small ship adventures, they choose to shift the paradigm, meeting their guests where they are in the market. This encourages them to see everyday events as an inspiration where they can share their own adventures. 

The new campaign had a soft roll out last month and will implement more campaign engagement opportunities, video releases, and news throughout 2022. These will connect adventure travelers with a cohesive message that continues to resonate as people increase their travel, much of it in their own back yard with U.S. destinations. UnCruise Adventures is the ultimate travel companion that embodies adventure with a small footprint, breaking away from the ordinary. Break Up with Boring serves as the perfect empowering message for 2022 in an upbeat and uplifting way, when travelers are ready for adventure. 

“We want guests to feel confident in their small ship experience and feel supported every step of their journey. We do not just engage in the possibilities of travel; we engage in the realities of future travel. With UnCruise Adventures you’re just one adventure away from breaking up with boring.” said Blanchard. 

View a new Break Up with Boring humorous video campaign on the company's YouTube channel here. 

Learn how to Break Up with Boring on small ship adventures at uncruise.com or reach out for more details and media partnerships at pr@uncruise.com. 

For the latest on the company’s COVID-19 health protocols, please visit https://uncruise.com/pages/covid-travel-updates  

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My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion