A collection of every news article on CruiseReport.com
Norwegian Prima Introduces New Spa and Fitness Offerings Including Industry’s First Charcoal Sauna at Sea
MIAMI (April 27, 2022) - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today shared details surrounding its elevated spa and fitness offerings for it's highly-anticipated Norwegian Prima Class vessels - Norwegian Prima and Viva.
The first two of six ships within this cutting-edge class will feature the cruise industry’s first charcoal sauna at sea as well as a two-story cascading indoor spa waterfall. The Cruise Line has also incorporated several guest favorites including thermal experiences and hot-stone loungers.
Award-winning architecture firm Rockwell Group masterfully designed the perfect environment for tranquility and rejuvenation in Norwegian Prima and Viva’s spa and fitness venues.
"The debut of our Prima Class has been all about elevating guest experiences across all the touch points that make a perfect holiday at sea, from food and beverage, entertainment, recreational activities and now spa and fitness," said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Our latest health and wellness experiences were designed to awaken the senses of our guests like never before pairing world-class design and architecture with one-of-kind offerings that truly allow our guests to unwind and escape."
Awaken the Senses at the All New Mandara Spa
Industry’s First Charcoal Sauna at Sea
As part of the ongoing only-found-on-NCL’s Prima Class vacation experiences such as the world’s first three-level racetrack at sea and dry drop slides, the Brand will unveil the industry’s first charcoal sauna.
Derived from Japanese and Korean wellness practices, the charcoal sauna uses a radiant heat system with an outer charcoal layer to reach temperatures between 86-122 degrees Fahrenheit. Guests can recline into relaxation as the sauna helps boost circulation and metabolism while also removing toxins from the body. The sauna also effectively treats muscle stiffness and tension, including relief from backache, headache, and arthritis, by promoting the deep release of connective tissue and muscles.
Thermal Experiences
The charcoal sauna is just one of eight thermal spa offerings available at the elevated Mandara Spa. Guests can also indulge in a series of blissful experiences such as a salt and steam room, as well as a gambit of Brand-first spa experiences including an Ice Room, Experiential Showers, a Flotation Salt Pool and Infrared Sauna.
The Ice Room: After unwinding in the sauna or steam bath, guests can cool off in the refreshing Ice Room. The cold air helps to increase blood circulation, invigorate the respiratory tract, and strengthen the immune system.
The Experiential Showers: Multiple water jets and lighting effects help invigorate the body, lower body temperature, and stimulate blood circulation.
Floatation Salt Pool: This treatment allows guests to fully relax all of their muscles while floating in warm water. An experience similar to experiencing zero gravity due to the buoyancy of the saltwater. The Floatation Salt Pool is beneficial for easing mental anxiety and muscle tension.
Infrared Sauna: Unlike traditional saunas that use conventional heat to warm the air, infrared saunas utilize infrared lamps to directly warm the body - and at lower temperatures than traditional saunas. This promotes relaxation, better sleep, sore muscle and joint relief, improved blood circulation, and detoxification.
New Services
NCL is also introducing several new services at the spa, including two new beds from the Gharieni Group, the Gharieni Welnamis and the Gharieni Wellmassage5D. The Welnamis bed utilizes Binaural Acoustic & Dynamic Stimulation, a computer-controlled acoustic and vibrational therapy that trains the brain to relax and benefit from deep relaxation techniques. Meanwhile, the award-winning Wellmassage5d bed provides a whole-body wellness massage experience utilizing eight specially pre-programmed positions and the Brand’s "Signature Treatment" technique.
Other new service menu items include:
Ocean Spa Wave Massage: This unique treatment lets guests relax on a water-filled cushion. The cushion features a therapeutic warm wrap of nutrient-rich sea plants and marine algae releasing stress and tension from the body. The treatment also includes a deep cleansing seaweed mask, aromatherapy essential oils, and scalp and foot massages.
Musclease Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap: This wrap contains a warming blend of pine and rosemary essential oils to help guests ease the pains of rheumatism, arthritis, muscular spasms, and fatigue.
Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap: Excellent for guests seeking to improve the appearance of cellulite and reduce fluid retention. This treatment contains a detoxifying blend of juniper and lemon essential oils, which decongest and stimulate the body.
Zero Gravity Wellness Massage: High-tech meets high touch in this next-generation 75-minute wellness treatment. Producing a zero-gravity effect, the body is suspended on an advanced treatment table that maneuvers a series of sophisticated massage techniques to the user. Eight table positions enable effective and precise reach of every muscle group, including intensive work on the back and main muscles, resulting in release of tension and improved body mechanics.
The spa will also feature a relaxation area featuring 22 hot stone loungers. Guests can also arrange to stay in one of the 28 exclusive spa balcony staterooms on board Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, providing travelers with premium access to the elevated Mandara Spa and its suite of thermal spa experiences.
First-of-its-Kind Design
At the spa, guests can visit either the Vitality or Salt Floatation Pool where they can immerse themselves in the tranquil sounds of the two-story cascading indoor spa waterfall. This space also features an impressive marble spiral staircase. Additional design highlights include the relaxation area in the spa, and the Pulse Fitness Center. Both of these spaces are front facing on the ship, allowing guests to enjoy sweeping 270-degree views of the ocean. This is also the first time that NCL’s fitness center will be located at the front of the ship.
The gym will also include the all-new Performance Recovery room, an interactive, engaging wellness experience utilizing a selection of Hyperice products in workshops, group fitness classes, and services to maximize user benefits.
Returning Favorites
Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva will also feature enhanced guest-favorite spa and fitness amenities, including the Vitaly Pool, steam sauna, and Finnish sauna. The spa will offer a wide range of services in its 20 treatment rooms, including massage, acupuncture, manicures and pedicures, facials and more. In the Pulse Fitness Center, guests will have free access to the state-of-the-art fitness equipment they have come to expect from NCL. Yoga and spin classes will also be available.
For rendered images and video content of the all-new Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, please click here. For more information about the Company's award-winning 17-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES PARTNERS WITH ELi TECHNOLOGY TO INTRODUCE ELi CODE TO THE CRUISE INDUSTRY
Two Innovative Companies Demonstrate ELi Code at Seatrade Cruise Global 2022
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Apr. 25, 2022 – New luxury-expedition cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages and innovative ELi Technology are partnering to introduce cutting-edge ELi Code to the cruise industry. ELi Code distills and delivers a brand or establishment’s essence and immediately serves information and key services to customers with a tap on their mobile devices. Atlas Ocean Voyages is the first cruise company to utilize the new ELi Code at the upcoming Seatrade Cruise Global 2022, being held from April 25–27 on Miami Beach, Fla. Learn more about Atlas Ocean Voyages and ELi Technology at www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and www.EliTechnology.us, respectively.
"We saw ELi Code as a new, upcoming technology that can help convey Atlas Ocean Voyages’ essence and information to the luxe-adventure traveler in a more connected and succinct way," said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. "ELi Code’s flexibility and versatility is a powerful function that helps us go beyond the website and dynamically deliver what the consumer wants to see."
With ELi Code, travelers can virtually immerse themselves in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ luxe-adventure experience with a single scan. While QR codes send the user to one linked webpage, ELi Codes connect consumers to a mobile-optimized landing page, an ELi Page, with native content hosted by ELi Technology. The ELi Page lives outside a social media platform and offers an unparalleled curation of multimedia, engaging designs, multiple link options, and information, on one dynamic page.
“ELi Code is the next generation of QR Codes,” said Dave Boos, President and CEO of Cornerstone Consulting, Inc., the creators of ELi Codes. “ELi Codes cater to the preferred interfaces and content styles that is affected by social media platforms, but outside of a social media platform and not dependent on a website. There are a multitude of ELi Code applications from sole-proprietorship brands to emergency services, to consumer-packaged goods.”
The Hyper-Dynamic QR digital solution, ELi Code, takes consumers where companies want them to go. The ELi Codes enable an organization to customize the way they tell their stories and tailor their specific marketing needs, all while having the ability to run promotions, campaigns, and affiliate referral programs. ELi Codes can also deliver coupons and integrate them into existing loyalty programs.
As marketing needs change, the ELi Code can change with it. In minutes, the ELi Code's webpage design, links, buttons, and videos can change. The webpage is customizable in every facet and has a unique interface that makes changing the webpage simple. All design changes made are not only intuitive but do not impact the ELi Code that users scan.
Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxe-adventure, expedition cruise line designed for discerning, fun-seeking travelers to immerse in unique and awe-inspiring moments in remote and captivating destinations. World Navigator, launched in August 2021, and World Traveller, launching October 2022, both feature 98 suites, solo suites with no single supplements, and staterooms, and are the line’s first two small expedition ships, bringing travelers to smaller, exclusive locales where other ships cannot go. World Navigator will cruise England, Holland, France, Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, Greenland, and The Arctic in summer 2022; Central and South America in the autumn; and return to Antarctica for her winter 2022-23 season. In winter 2023, World Traveller will sail her inaugural season in Antarctica. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer, will join the fleet through 2024.
To learn more, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com. Also, please follow Atlas Ocean Voyages on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/atlascruises). Travel Advisors can call 1.844.44.ATLAS (1.844.442.8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure expedition.
Our review of Silversea Silver Moon
MSC SEASCAPE TO BECOME THE STAR OF THE MANHATTAN SKYLINE AS MSC CRUISES ANNOUNCES NEXT U.S. FLAGSHIP WILL BE LAUNCHED IN NEW YORK CITY
Naming Ceremony to be held December 7, 2022 in the heart of New York City at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal
Godmother Sophia Loren to name her 18th MSC Cruises ship
Ceremony will kick off MSC Seascape’s inaugural season in the U.S and Caribbean, while underscoring MSC Cruises’ upcoming expansion to New York City homeport
Geneva, Switzerland – April 21, 2022 – New York City will serve as the glittering backdrop for an extraordinary inaugural event when MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. flagship – MSC Seascape – comes into service later this year. Today the cruise line announced plans to hold the ship’s Naming Ceremony at New York’s centrally-located Manhattan Cruise Terminal on Wednesday, December 7, 2022. The star-studded event will bring MSC Cruises’ distinctive European style and glamour to the Big Apple and be attended by local dignitaries, important partners, top travel advisors, media from around the world, celebrities and international artists. And of course, no Naming Ceremony would be complete without Academy Award-Winning star Sophia Loren carrying out her iconic role as godmother to her 18th MSC Cruises ship.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division of MSC Group, commented: “We are particularly pleased to celebrate this momentous milestone in New York City, which holds a special place in our Group’s history, having been served by ships from the MSC Group’s cargo division since 1985. Today, as MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company leads the container shipping sector globally as well as across North America, MSC Cruises has grown to become a major player in the U.S. cruise industry. Having developed a meaningful operation out of South Florida, we are now preparing a major strategic expansion across the East Coast that will see us launch year-round cruises out of New York in 2023. We could not think of a better way of celebrating such a significant milestone than holding MSC Seascape’s – our latest flagship – naming ceremony in this wonderful city that has been an important hub for MSC Group for over three decades.”
MSC Seascape will be the cruise line’s first ship to be named in New York, reflecting MSC Cruises’ commitment to the North American cruise market and its upcoming expansion to New York and the Northeast with year-round cruises available from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal beginning in April of 2023. MSC Cruises is the world’s fastest growing cruise line and the third largest cruise brand in the world. With a truly global footprint, the line is continuing to expand and grow with two new ships coming into service in 2022 – MSC World Europa and MSC Seascape – and MSC Euribia hot on their heels in summer 2023.
Rubén Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “We are very excited to showcase to New Yorkers our European heritage and the unique international character we bring to cruising, matching the city’s multi-cultural flair. Bringing MSC Seascape to New York City for her Naming Ceremony is a fantastic opportunity for us to host a very special gala event onboard for our valued travel advisors and partners, introducing them to our newest ship. Come next year, New York City will be our third US home port, alongside Miami and Orlando/Port Canaveral. This is the latest example of the significant investment we’re making in the U.S. and the Caribbean, which includes building the largest cruise terminal in North America at PortMiami and offering Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve as both a stunning tropical destination and a reflection of our commitment to the environment.”
While in New York, specially invited guests from around the world will enjoy a Naming Ceremony that includes live entertainment and performances, along with a gala dinner and an opportunity to discover MSC Seascape’s spectacular onboard venues and experiences.
MSC Seascape will sail to Miami immediately following the ceremony for an inaugural season in the Caribbean, with a long list of fantastic features that make her particularly well-suited for the region’s warm, sunny weather. The ship will be the second Seaside EVO class ship to enter MSC Cruises’ fleet and the fourth vessel in the line’s highly innovative Seaside class, which has been redefining guests’ expectations for Caribbean cruising since MSC Seaside first launched in Miami in 2017.
MSC Seascape will offer two different 7-night itineraries from PortMiami:
Eastern Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic
Western Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel in Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios in Jamaica
To find out more about MSC Seascape’s itineraries, click here.
Travel advisors from the New York area and across the Northeast should contact their MSC Cruises representative for an invite to this one of a kind, much coveted event.
New Horizons at Sea
MSC Seascape will offer an immersive experience that connects guests with the sea through her cutting-edge design and impressive outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed for relaxation, dining, and entertainment. Some of the key highlights include:
2,270 cabins, featuring 12 different kinds of suites and staterooms with balconies (including the iconic aft suites featured on all Seaside class ships)
11 dining venues plus 19 bars and lounges, with many options for ‘Al Fresco’ dining and drinking
Six swimming pools, including a stunning aft infinity pool with incredible ocean views
The largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club in MSC Cruises’ fleet, with approximately 32,000 square feet of space featuring sweeping ocean views from the front of the ship
An expansive 1,772-foot-long waterfront promenade that puts guests closer to the ocean
A spectacular glass-floored Bridge of Sighs at deck 16 with a unique view of the sea
MSC Seascape’s environmental technologies will include selective catalytic reduction systems on each of her four Wärtsilä 14V 46F engines, reducing nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90 percent and converting the gas into harmless nitrogen and water. Separate hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems will remove 98 percent of sulphur oxide from ship emissions.
The vessel is fitted with best-in-class wastewater treatment systems with purification standards that are higher than most wastewater treatment facilities on land. It will feature advanced waste management systems, ballast water treatment systems approved by the United States Coast Guard, the latest-technology systems for the prevention of oil discharges from machinery spaces, and various effective energy-efficiency improvements – from heat recovery systems to LED lighting able to save energy.
The ship will also feature an underwater radiated noise management system to reduce and isolate the potential effects on marine mammals.
Princess Cruises Reveals Celebrity Godparents of Discovery Princess
Television Stars Randy Fenoli, Chef Alex Guarnaschelli, Adam Savage, and Page Turner to Officially Name Cruise Line’s Newest Ship
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (April 25, 2022) – Television stars and show hosts will unite as godparents to officially name the newest Princess Cruises ship – Discovery Princess. Fashion designer Randy Fenoli, chef Alex Guarnaschelli, special effects designer, and fabricator Adam Savage, and real estate broker and flipper extraordinaire Page Turner will come together for the maritime naming ceremony tradition at the Port of Los Angeles on April 29.
For the past seven years, Princess has offered the cruise line’s exclusive Discovery at SEA™ program – bringing the spirit of curiosity and exploration to every cruise through branded experiences like Shark Week at Sea, exclusive shore excursions and onboard activities such as the Camp Discovery youth centers and Stargazing at SEA.
“Bringing together these four experts and personalities to name Discovery Princess for the launch of our newest ship is an exciting moment for Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Our impressive godparents, who represent the best in food, style, wonder and exploration, bring their imaginative and inspirational talents together to celebrate this momentous occasion. We look forward to exploring what we all can do together in the future.”
The impressive credentials of the four godparents of Discovery Princess include:
Randy Fenoli – Born on a cattle farm in Southern Illinois, Randy is the youngest of seven children. Driven by his fascination for design, Randy taught himself to sew at the early age of nine. At twenty, Randy received a license as a hair stylist and makeup artist. Randy’s passion for fashion and design then led him to the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. From 2007-2012 Randy worked as Fashion Director at New York’s Kleinfeld Bridal Salon where he consulted with nearly 15,000 brides a year. Today as the star of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress”, “Big Bliss”, “Randy Knows Best”, “Randy to the Rescue”, “Say Yes to the Dress Benelux”, and “Say Yes to the Dress America”, is seen by millions of viewers in approximately 150 countries. Randy has just finished filming season twenty-one of SYTTD. As the most trusted source in the Bridal Industry, it is Randy Fenoli’s mission to “Educate, Elevate, and Empower” every bride to choose the most important dress in her life and for all women to realize their own personal beauty.
Chef Alex Guarnaschelli – world-renowned chef who, after attending La Varenne Culinary School in Burgundy, France, began her international culinary journey training in Paris and New York with some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs including Guy Savoy and Daniel Boulud. In 2003, Guarnaschelli was given the opportunity to expand her repertoire and become the executive chef at Butter, where she has since created her own eclectic American and green-market inspired menu. She first appeared on Food Network in 2006 and has since been part of hundreds of episodes on the network, including as a judge on Chopped, co-host of The Kitchen, host of Supermarket Stakeout and star of Alex vs. America. She hosts the award-winning digital series, Fix Me a Plate and is the author of three cookbooks, including “Cook With Me: 150 Recipes for the Home Cook (2020).
Adam Savage – special effects designer and fabricator, television personality and producer, Original host of the Emmy-nominated Discovery series Mythbusters, Savage has spent his life gathering skills that allow him to take what’s in his brain and make it real. He’s built everything from giant Buddhas and futuristic weapons, to fine-art sculptures. His previous positions include projectionist, animator, graphic designer, carpenter, interior and stage designer, toy designer, welder and scenic painter. In 1993, Savage concentrated his career in the special effects industry, honing his skills through more than 100 television commercials and a dozen feature films, including Star Wars Episodes I and II, Galaxy Quest and the Matrix sequels. In 2003, he was chosen to produce and co-host MythBusters. Fourteen years, 279 episodes, 1,015 myths, 2,950 experiments, eight Emmy nominations and 83 miles of duct tape later, that version of the series ended in March 2016. Since then, Savage has hosted MythBusters Jr., as well as a brand-new series, Savage Builds, which premiered on the Science Channel in 2019. Today, Savage is the Editor-in-Chief and lead content creator at Tested.com.
Page Turner – entrepreneur extraordinaire, real estate broker, flipping expert, executive producer, TV host, vision strategist and founder of EGAP Real Estate and Do the Work, Inc. After working for many years under the tutelage of great humanitarians such as Magic Johnson, Turner is a self-starter and successful entrepreneur who has been a real estate broker, flipper and investor for more than two decades, a published author of “The G.O. Life,” owns Do the Work, Inc. and BLW Productions, and is co-creator, executive producer and host of her second hit HGTV show Fix My Flip. She’s an expert in all facets of residential real estate, flipping, investing, building businesses and persevering through tough times. As a single mom to three girls, Turner solely supported her daughters (including twins) through private school and top universities. Her vision, resilience and work ethic (her motto is #dothework) have propelled her to the top of her industry.
About Discovery Princess
Discovery Princess expands the cruise line’s fleet of MedallionClass ships to 15, offering elegantly appointed accommodations, world-class entertainment, gourmet dining and cocktails, extensive alfresco dining areas and expansive views from the cruise line’s largest balconies at sea in the Sky Suites.
The 3,660-guest Discovery Princess was built at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and is the sixth and final Royal-Class newbuild sharing all of the spectacular style and luxury of her sister ships – Enchanted Princess® Sky Princess®, Majestic Princess®, Regal Princess® and Royal Princess®.
As part of the leading cruise line on the west coast, Discovery Princess debuted in Los Angeles on March 27, sailing a series of Mexican Riviera and California Coast voyages from March 27 – April 24. After the naming ceremony in Los Angeles on April 29, the ship will head up the Pacific coast to begin a season of seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle, making her the newest ship sailing in the Alaska region.
With an array of innovative new experiences, guests will enjoy 270-degree sweeping views from the Princess’ largest balconies at sea in the Sky Suites, unwind in ultimate comfort at The Sanctuary and indulge the senses with world-class dining options. Plus, Princess live entertainment presents mesmerizing Broadway-style production shows that can only be seen in the state-of-the-art Princess Theater, including the newest show, Spotlight Bar.
In addition, Discovery Princess delivers Princess MedallionClass Vacations which begin with the Medallion™ wearable, a quarter-sized, 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 Wi-Fi 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.
Discovery Princess also offers signature Princess venues and amenities including the Piazza, Lotus Spa, The Sanctuary, Movies Under the Stars, Gigi’s Pizzeria, Good Spirits at Sea Bar, Vegas-Style Casino, The Shops of Princess, Camp Discovery Youth & Teen Center and Discovery at SEA™ programs.
More information about Discovery Princess can be found at https://www.princess.com/ships-and-experience/ships/xp-discovery-princess/
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/.
My review of Celebrity Apex
American Queen Voyages™ Ocean Navigator™ Welcomed to Flynn Cruiseport Boston on Eastern Seaboard Sailing
-Great Ameri-Cation Sale Revealed to Cruise North America Now-
Photo (From Left): Lauren Gleason, deputy port director, Massachusetts Port Authority and Ocean Navigator Captain Gary Kerr
Boston – April 22, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, celebrated another company milestone calling on Flynn Cruiseport Boston, marking the first time a Lakes & Oceans vessel has visited the historic New England port. Ocean Navigator™, the final Lakes & Oceans vessel returning to the cruise line’s fleet, is currently sailing the Eastern Seaboard on a 17-day Savannah to Halifax voyage enroute to the Great Lakes, where she will make her exclusive downtown Chicago Navy Pier debut on May 18. The 202-guest boutique coastal ship was greeted by Massachusetts Port Authority Deputy Port Director Lauren Gleason, who toured the vessel, visiting with guests, officers and crew.
“New England is ideal for cruisers to explore by boutique coastal vessel due to our smaller waterways and quaint towns, and we are delighted to welcome Ocean Navigator to Flynn Cruiseport Boston,” said Gleason. “Boston is the epicenter of the region, and our rich history offers the encounter travel experiences American Queen Voyages passengers seek during their journey.”
While visiting Boston, American Queen Voyages guests explored the North End, Boston Common and other iconic parts of the city. Sister ship Ocean Voyager™ will visit Flynn Cruiseport Boston on April 24.
Marking Ocean Navigator’s visit to Boston, American Queen Voyages is rolling out the Great Ameri-Cation Sale, encouraging travelers to Deeply Discover North America now. The sale is available for booking on 24 select voyages that depart between May and July 2022, across Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition experiences. The offer includes companion sails free with fares from $1,200 per guest. Applicable sailings are available here for new bookings by May 31, 2022.
“This is a special week in Boston celebrating Patriot’s Day, The Boston Marathon and the return of the Red Sox to Fenway Park, and its the most appropriate moment to announce our Great Ameri-Cation offering, ” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages. “Many travelers are staying domestic this summer and limited availability remains to deeply discover North America now.”
The month of April marks the 10th anniversary of American Queen Voyages and the debut of expedition ship Ocean Victory on May 6, sailing between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka, AK.
In June, Founder and Chairman, John Waggoner, and Culinary Ambassador, Regina Charboneau, will celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary with four newly added Lower Mississippi River itineraries on the flagship American Queen®. The nine-day itineraries will sail between Memphis and New Orleans with departures on June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2022. Ports of call include Cleveland (Terrene Landing), Vicksburg, Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Nottoway. Celebrating the 10th anniversary season, American Queen Voyages Founder and Chairman John Waggoner will join the June 12 American Queen sailing from New Orleans to Memphis to serve as host and special guest Riverlorian. As special guest Riverlorian, Waggoner will host exclusive lectures and share tales on the history of the company, memories from ports along the rivers, the making of the newest paddlewheeler American Countess®, and more.
Adding to the anniversary festivities, on the American Queen June Lower Mississippi River sailings will be newly added experiences with Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau. Guests booking a Luxury or Owner’s Suite will receive a complimentary exclusive cooking class and brunch hosted by Regina Charboneau at her Natchez cooking school while in port. All guests will also be joined onboard by Charboneau for a special pre-sail biscuit demonstration and champagne toast before departing Natchez.
For more information on American Queen Voyages’ 10th anniversary season, sailing dates, and to book a reservation or order a brochure, contact your travel professional, call 833-598-0119 or visit www.AQVoyages.com.
My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion
SILVERSEA® UNLOCKS UNIQUELY SEAMLESS JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA WITH EXCLUSIVE DEPARTURES FROM PUERTO WILLIAMS, CHILE
The only cruise line sailing from Puerto Williams, Silversea’s guests will enjoy the most comfortable and seamless journey to Antarctica for the 2022-2023 season.
(Monaco -- April 21, 2022) Silversea Cruises, the global leader in ultra-luxury and expedition cruise travel, has enhanced guests’ journeys to Antarctica with a more comfortable and convenient connection. Guests travelling aboard the line’s three ice-class expedition ships—Silver Cloud®, Silver Wind® and Silver Explorer®—will embark and disembark in Puerto Williams, Chile, for the 2022-2023 season, enjoying more convenient flight times, personalised service during an exclusive charter flight, and quicker transfers to the ship, among other advantages.
"I extend my gratitude to the Chilean authorities and local stakeholders who have enabled us to unlock the most comfortable and convenient route to Antarctica for international travellers,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea's President and CEO. "As the only cruise line currently offering Antarctica expeditions from Puerto Williams, we are immensely proud of this accomplishment, which is representative of our commitment to delivering truly unique experiences in this iconic destination.”
"Such innovations reflect Silversea’s destination leadership in Antarctica,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea's Senior Vice President of Expeditions, Turnaround Operations and Destination Management. "Puerto Williams is a magnificent gateway for accessing the natural treasures of Antarctica. As the only company currently operating a private charter flight between Santiago and Puerto Williams, Silversea can now offer guests an enhanced level of service and a more seamless connection as they journey to Antarctica in style. I thank the Chilean authorities and all involved stakeholders for their invaluable collaboration. This innovation has been many years in the making, and it is an incredibly proud moment to see our guests departing from Puerto Williams on three of our ultra-luxury ships."
PUERTO WILLIAMS: AN ADVANTAGEOUS GATEWAY
Part of the most comprehensive all-inclusive Antarctica offering, guests’ enhanced journeys to Antarctica will incorporate the following benefits for the 2022-2023 season:
An overnight stay in a five-star hotel in Santiago, with a welcome reception dinner and breakfast
A comfortable transfer to Santiago’s airport the following day, with a flight departing from a private airport terminal
An exclusive charter flight to Puerto Williams, fully escorted by a Silversea’s representative
An upgraded, personalized flight experience, including extra legroom, greater luggage allowance, and regionally inspired gourmet lunch
A quicker transfer to the ship in Puerto Williams
Upon disembarkation from the ship, a direct transfer to the airport and charter flight to Santiago for the onward journey
Departing from Puerto Williams will also enable Silver Cloud and Silver Wind to call at Cape Horn in southern Chile on select voyages, conditions permitting, enabling travellers to disembark at one of the continent’s southernmost point.
CRAFTING THE GOLD STANDARD FOR ANTARCTIC EXPEDITIONS
Silversea’s three ultra-luxury expedition ships offer the most broad-ranging selection of Antarctica itineraries to curious travellers, who journey in the cruise line’s trademark level of comfort.
This curated range of expedition cruises includes a series of 10-day explorations of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, as well as shorter sailings aboard Silver Explorer from King George Island as part of Silversea’s Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise programme – which unlocks the fastest, most direct route to Antarctica. Longer voyages encompass the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Falkland Islands, Elephant Island, and South Georgia. Moreover, a ‘Deep Antarctica’ itinerary will spend 20 days tracing a path beyond the Antarctic Circle, attempting to reach a latitude of 69 degrees south.
Each all-suite, butler-serviced ship features specialist expedition experts who lead immersive shore excursions for guests. These experienced and talented professionals offer informative lectures, discussions and recaps on board, in addition to Zodiac and kayak tours, hikes, and nature walks ashore -- all of which are included in the fare.
Find more details on Silversea's all-inclusive Antarctica cruises:
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica-cruise.html
Please note: Silversea’s website will reflect itinerary updates from April 22, 2022.
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 Moon℠ – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin®, Silver Wind®, Silver Explorer®, 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.
For more information on Silversea Cruises, please call toll-free (888) 978-4070,
or contact a travel agent.
Our review of Silversea Silver Moon
Princess Cruises Debuts New Ocean Treks Conservation Connections Series
Weekly Video Series Highlighting Princess Stories of Sustainability Hosted by Environmental Ambassador Jeff Corwin and Princess President John Padgett
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (April 19, 2022) – Building on the success of the award-winning series, Ocean Treks, Princess Cruises announced today the debut of a new digital series titled Ocean Treks Conservation Connections, featuring short stories of environmental management, wildlife conservation, and sustainability. The 28-episode series includes original content hosted by Environmental Ambassador Jeff Corwin and Princess Cruises President John Padgett, with the first episode available for viewing starting today on the cruise line’s YouTube channel.
“In keeping environmental protection as one of our top priorities, we’re eager to leverage our popular Ocean Treks brand and its library to create new videos to share important sustainability stories about our fleet,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “With Environmental Ambassador Jeff Corwin, my co-host and renowned biologist, wildlife advocate and host of many award-winning television programs, we hope viewers are engaged as we discuss the importance of conservation both to Princess and us personally.”
The new Ocean Treks Conservation Connections videos will feature the following topics:
Recycling and sustainability
Food waste reduction and biodigester system
Conservation at Princess Cays
Leveraging shore power and energy efficiency
Advanced Wastewater Treatment System
Innovative fuel sources
Advanced Air Quality System
In addition, the series will feature wildlife and conservation stories originally highlighted in the first three seasons of Ocean Treks. These episodes will take viewers to worldwide destinations that Princess visits, including the Dominican Republic, Alaska, New Zealand, Iceland, Japan, French Polynesia and more. In total, 28 videos will be a part of the weekly series that will begin streaming April 19, 2022.
Ocean Treks debuted in 2016 as part of Carnival Corporation’s Ocean Originals slate of television programs, which also includes Vacation Creation and The Voyager with Josh Garcia, which aired on ABC and NBC, respectively. The original content was part of the corporation’s focus on producing and broadly distributing engaging and compelling experiential content. The original series has been honored with 7 Daytime Emmy nominations and 44 Telly Awards, which recognize the best in broadcast and cable TV, digital and streaming. Ocean Treks is also available on-demand in staterooms on board Princess ships and via OceanView.
Princess Cruises depends on the oceans and is committed to environmental practices that set a high standard for excellence and responsibility, help preserve the marine environment and air quality for future generations. The cruise industry is highly regulated, and Princess works closely with the regulatory and enforcement organizations that govern environmental regulations to ensure that policies meet the strictest requirements set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other regional and national organizations with responsibility to protect the environment. More information can be found at www.princess.com/environment.
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/.
My review of Celebrity Apex
CELEBRITY CRUISES ANNOUNCES NEW 2022 FALL SAILINGS FROM PORTS ON BOTH U.S. COASTS
Celebrity Solstice® to Visit Mexican Riviera; Celebrity Millennium® to Sail the Caribbean
Miami (April 18, 2022) – Picturesque lagoons, Old World charm, bustling nightlife, and local flavors are a few things guests will experience as Celebrity Cruises® sets sail on a series of new sailings through both the Mexican Riviera and the Caribbean beginning fall 2022. Aboard the luxurious Celebrity Solstice, guests will be treated to unparalleled vistas as it sails down the Pacific Coast, while experiencing the vibrant culture of the Mexican Riviera. Celebrity Millennium®, recently modernized as part of the Celebrity Revolution®, will treat guests to endless summer sailings through the Southern Caribbean.
Setting sail from September 2022 through April 2023, Celebrity Solstice will embark on five-, seven-, and eight-night itineraries from its homeport in Los Angeles, California, making its way down the coast to visit some of the region’s most popular cities including Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada, and Mazatlán.
Adding to the allure of its Mexican Riviera sailings, select itineraries will offer overnight stops in Cabo San Lucas for guests to experience a nightlife that is second to none.
Celebrity Solstice will also offer five unique Pacific Coastal itineraries that take guests up and down the West Coast from Ensenada, Mexico, to Vancouver, British Columbia, including stops in beautiful California cities like San Francisco, Catalina Island, and Monterey.
Celebrity Millennium® to Bask in the Caribbean Sun
From October to December 2022, Celebrity Millennium will offer seven-night itineraries where guests can take in the pristine beaches of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, bathe in the tropical sun of Barbados, or enjoy the lively street markets of Nassau, Bahamas.
For those who would like to experience more adventure on board Millennium, Celebrity Cruises will offer a unique 15-night itinerary that is highlighted by passage through the Panama Canal. Departing from San Diego, California, Millennium will visit six breath-taking ports, including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Oranjestad, Aruba; before reaching its final destination – San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Simplifying the luxury experience, Wi-Fi, drinks, and service charges are now ‘Always IncludedSM’ on every Celebrity cruise. For more information on all Celebrity Cruises 2022-2023 sailings, go to https://www.celebritycruises.com/2022-2023-cruises.
My review of Celebrity Apex
Adventures Await in Alaska with Special Offers from Princess Cruises
Leading Cruise Operator in the Great Land Makes Visiting this Must-See Destination Possible in 2022
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (April 13, 2022) – Now is the time to visit Alaska and Princess Cruises, the leading cruise line in this must-see destination for more than 50 years, is offering guests up to 40 percent off on all Alaska 2022 cruises and cruisetours with “Summer on Sale,” running through May 3, 2022. Fares include:
7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay (Southbound) on Royal Princess (June 4), starting at $449
7-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip Seattle) on Discovery Princess (June 5), starting at $499
11-Day On Your Own – Tour FBX (Cruisetour) on Majestic Princess (June 7), starting at $1089
10-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip San Francisco) on Ruby Princess (June 9), starting at $769
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. Six MedallionClass ships will sail to Alaska this season, including the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess, marking 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. 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:
“Wild for Alaska Seafood” - this industry-first, location-based seafood initiative features an extensive menu rotation of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails including flights of Alaska spirits sourced from local distilleries—inventive cocktails such as “Creamy Cinnamon Moonshine,” “Glacial chilled Martinis,” and hand-picked, premium wine pairings to go with Alaska seafood dishes.
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.
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.
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/.
My review of Celebrity Apex
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES ANNOUNCES NEW NORWEGIAN FJORDS AND LONDON, HOLLAND AND FRANCE VOYAGES
Travelers Enjoy Up to $6,000 Savings Per Suite or Stateroom for All 2022 and 2023 Luxe-adventure Voyages and Expeditions
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., April 8, 2022 – Bringing travelers to captivating destinations in luxe-adventure style, Atlas Ocean Voyages announced three new Western Europe voyages aboard World Navigator today. The new Norwegian Fjords and London, Holland, and France voyages depart in August and September 2022 and feature multiple overnights in culture-rich ports, which provide opportunities for guests to opt for extensive tour options. Because of her small size, World Navigator will navigate up narrow waterways and rivers to dock in the center of Amsterdam, London, Antwerp, and Bordeaux for convenient access to each city. Travelers can take advantage of up to $6,000 savings per suite or stateroom aboard these new voyages, or any 2022 and 2023 voyages and expeditions, when making a new deposited booking from now until June 30, 2022. For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.
“World Navigator’s new late-summer voyages bring travelers to the Norwegian Fjords and Western Europe at one of the best times of the year,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “These port-intensive itineraries feature multiple overnights in some of the region’s most sophisticated destinations far removed from current global events. And World Navigator’s small size provides guests a more personalized and immersive, luxe-adventure experience.”
On the new 12-night Norwegian Fjords voyage, departing roundtrip from Hamburg on August 26, 2022, guests visit some of the most breathtaking fjordlands of Southern and Western Norway, including Sognefjord, the country’s largest fjord. World Navigator’s small size is ideal for bringing guests to small, charming villages and breathtaking vistas of majestic mountain peaks, steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
The subsequent 12-night, Hamburg to London voyage, departing September 7, guests enjoy overnights at Amsterdam and London, and call at Antwerp, Belgium; Paris (Honfleur), France; and Plymouth, U.K. In Amsterdam, guests can opt to see the famous Tulips at the Seventh Decennial Floriade with horticultural exhibits from more than 33 countries. Additionally, World Navigator will cruise up the Thames to dock at the Tower Bridge and overnight in the city, so guests have plenty of time to catch a West End show and step into a pub for a pint.
The September 19 voyage, a 13-night itinerary from London to Porto, Portugal, overnights in Amsterdam, London, Paris (Honfleur) and Bordeaux for the widest range of immersive experiences for enophiles, history and horticultural enthusiasts, and art and culture seekers. In addition to visiting the heart of one of France’s renowned wine regions, guests can also opt to take a tour to the Normandy Beaches to honor the memory of one of the most pivotal moments of World War II.
Atlas Ocean Voyages is a luxe-adventure, expedition cruise line designed for discerning, fun-seeking travelers to immerse in unique and awe-inspiring moments in remote and captivating destinations. World Navigator, launched in August 2021, and World Traveller, launching October 2022, both feature 98 suites, solo suites with no single supplements, and staterooms, and is the line’s first two small expedition ship, bringing travelers to smaller, authentic and exclusive locales.
World Navigator will cruise Western Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, and Iceland, Greenland and The Arctic in summer 2022; Central and South America in the autumn; and return to Antarctica for her winter 2022-23 season. In winter 2023, World Traveller will sail her inaugural season in Antarctica. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer, will join the fleet through 2024.
For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com. Please also follow Atlas Ocean Voyages on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/atlascruises). Travel Advisors can call 1.844.44.ATLAS (1.844.442.8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure expedition.
Our review of Silversea Silver Moon