CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE BREAKS GROUND ON NEW CRUISE PORT DESTINATION ON GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND

/

From left to right - Minister for Grand Bahama The Honourable Ginger Moxey, Carnival Corporation President and CEO Arnold Donald, Bahamas Prime Minister The Honourable Philip Davis, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Carnival Corporation Senior Vice President, Port and Destination Development Giora Israel, Carnival Corporation Chief Operations Officer Josh Weinstein, The Grand Bahama Port Authority Acting Chairman Sarah St. George. Photo 3, from left to right - Christine Duffy, President Carnival Cruise Line and Bahamas Prime Minister The Honourable Philip Davis. Photo courtesy of Lisa Davis, BIS

THE BAHAMAS, May 12, 2022 – With a strong showing of validation of the cruise industry’s return and optimism, and reflecting a long-standing partnership between Carnival Cruise Line and The Bahamas, Carnival, in cooperation with the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Government of The Bahamas, today held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new cruise port destination on Grand Bahama Island.  

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy; Bahamas Prime Minister The Honourable Philip Davis; Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister The Honourable I. Chester Cooper; Minister for Grand Bahama The Honourable Ginger Moxey; and The Grand Bahama Port Authority Acting Chairman Sarah St. George; along with Carnival Corporation CEO Arnold Donald and representatives from Carnival Corporation and the local community used ceremonial shovels to officially mark the beginning of construction.

“With the start of this Carnival project, Grand Bahama is now on the better side of reaching its true economic potential,” said The Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas. “This investment will provide much needed jobs but will also signal new hope for the island’s recovery.”

The new Carnival Grand Bahama cruise port destination, expected to open in late 2024, is being developed on the south side of the island and will continue to serve as a gateway to Grand Bahama while also offering guests a uniquely Bahamian experience with many exciting features and amenities, along with business opportunities for the residents of Grand Bahama. 

“As we celebrate our 50-year partnership with The Bahamas, today’s groundbreaking on our incredible new Grand Bahama destination represents an opportunity to collaborate with the government and people of Grand Bahama – to contribute to the local economy through job and business opportunities, meaningfully engage with local communities, and further expand our experience offerings for our guests who will have a breathtaking new port of call to enjoy,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy.  “Our sincere thanks to the government of The Bahamas and The Grand Bahama Port Authority for their continued support as we begin construction.  Our guests already love The Bahamas, and we are certain this new project will give them even more reason to want to visit.” 

The Grand Bahama Port Authority Acting Chairman Sarah St. George commented: “The new Carnival cruise port destination will have a monumental impact on our island’s economy, including a panoply of new business opportunities, a huge surge in tourist visitors, as well as increased activities for established businesses.  It is transformational in the true sense of the word.  We are immensely grateful to Carnival for choosing Freeport and Grand Bahama for this flagship project.  Today, we mark this incredible achievement made possible by the efforts of Carnival with The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Port Group Limited, the Grand Bahama Development Company and Freeport Harbour Company, and the Government of The Bahamas. A project of this magnitude is only possible through genuine collaboration. Grand Bahamians have withstood life-changing challenges, particularly in recent years. Despite these, Carnival never wavered in their commitment to building their next cruise port in Freeport.  We are very proud to have played our part to the best of our ability towards making this a reality.”

The cruise port development includes a pier able to accommodate up to two Excel-class ships simultaneously welcoming guests to a stunning white-sand beach The Bahamas are known for. Guests will be able to explore and enjoy Grand Bahama by way of sea, via a dedicated shore excursion dock, or by land, via the dedicated ground transportation hub.  The cruise port itself will also feature an area designated as a nature reserve and an interior pool feature, along with many Bahamian-operated retail, food and beverage options for guests to enjoy.

“The Carnival groundbreaking is very significant to the residents of Grand Bahama. This development signals opportunities for creatives, vendors, and small and medium sized businesses, and represents our commitment to collaboration with local and international partners for the betterment of our island,” said The Honourable Ginger M. Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama.

The cruise pier will allow Grand Bahama to welcome guests from Carnival’s larger ships, such as the 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras, which debuted in 2021 as the line’s largest and most innovative ship and North America’s first cruise ship powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and Carnival Celebration, sister ship to Mardi Gras, which will begin sailing from Miami later this year.

Added Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Investment and Aviation The Honourable I. Chester Cooper: “The cruise port is an integral part of our plan to restore Grand Bahama to economic viability. Carnival will play a critical role in stimulating our economy and shining a light on Grand Bahama as a rejuvenated and premier destination in our country and the region. We believe the excitement of what is happening on Grand Bahama will be contagious.”

Today’s event was an important next step as construction gets underway.  Additional details on the design, features and the name of the cruise port destination will be revealed over the coming months as Carnival finalizes its plans to maximize the fun for their guests and the opportunities to partner with local businesses and other stakeholders.

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

VIKING TAKES DELIVERY OF NEWEST OCEAN SHIP

/

The Viking Mars Will Be Named on May 17 by the Countess of Carnarvon of Highclere Castle

Los Angeles (May 12, 2022) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced it has taken delivery of the company’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Mars®. The delivery ceremony took place this morning when the ship was presented at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy. The Viking Mars will now make her way to Valletta, Malta, where she will be officially named on May 17, 2022—Norwegian Constitution Day—by her ceremonial godmother, Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon. The ship will then sail itineraries in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Northern Europe before repositioning at the end of the year for voyages around Australia and New Zealand.

“As we celebrate our 25th anniversary and a year of important milestones for Viking, today we are very proud to welcome the newest ocean ship to our award-winning fleet,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Lady Carnarvon has honored us by serving as godmother to the Viking Mars, and we look forward to welcoming guests on board this beautiful new sister ship in the coming weeks.”

Viking and Highclere Castle

For years Viking has offered a variety of ways for its guests to experience life at Highclere Castle, which is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. Highclere Castle is known as the filming location of Downton Abbey, and Viking became a household name during its sponsorship of the celebrated series MASTERPIECE through the years Downton Abbey aired on PBS. Viking Executive Vice President Karine Hagen worked closely with the Carnarvon family to develop Privileged Access® Pre/Post Extensions that feature the estate, including the highly-rated Oxford & Highclere Castle and Great Homes, Gardens & Gin extensions, both of which are available for guests on select river and ocean voyages. Also, for guests on the popular Pharaohs & Pyramids Nile River itinerary, Viking offers the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt Pre Extension, which gives guests an introduction to Egyptian antiquities in preparation for their Nile experience—and includes retracing the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, and at Highclere Castle, have the opportunity to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts. 

Lady Carnarvon has also welcomed viewers to Highclere Castle on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV (www.viking.tv). In her ongoing series, At Home at Highclere, Lady Carnarvon offers virtual Privileged Access to the historic home and its grounds. In the past two years, she has led more than 20 virtual tours and offered glimpses of life at her home. Additionally, Lady Carnarvon has served as godmother to a Viking Longship, the Viking Skadi, which sails Viking’s popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

The Viking Mars

The delivery of the Viking Mars comes as Viking continues to mark its 25th anniversary. In January 2022, the company launched Viking Expeditions and its first purpose-built Polar Class vessel, the Viking Octantis®; in March 2022, the company named eight new European river ships during a special event in Paris. By the end of the year, Viking will have also welcomed a second identical expedition ship, another identical ocean ship, and new purpose-built vessels for the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi rivers.

The Viking Mars is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

2024 VOYAGE COLLECTION LAUNCH AMONG THE BEST SINGLE-DAY BOOKING DAYS IN OCEANIA CRUISES’ HISTORY

/

Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Miami, FL, May 10, 2022 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, reported the opening day for its 2024 Collection of voyages on May 4, 2022, ranks among the best single-day booking periods in the company’s history.

“The 2024 Collection launch illustrates tremendous and continued strong demand for cruising in addition to highlighting the increased trend in planning travel farther out, both for past guests and new-to-brand guests,” stated Howard Sherman, President & CEO of Oceania Cruises.

On May 4, 2022, Oceania Cruises opened its 2024 Collection of voyages for sale to the general public. More than 350 voyages ranging from 7 to 82 days in length and spanning from October 2023 to December 2024 went on sale.

All of the bookings for 2023 and 2024 are new cash bookings with absolutely no dilution from Future Cruise Credits issued during the pandemic. Oceania Cruises continues to see strong demand from new-to-brand guests who are attracted to the line’s unique destination-rich itineraries with one-third of all bookings coming from first-time guests. In addition, one-third of the total transactions included reservations for at least two voyages, and extended travel continues to prove popular with Grand Voyages performing well. The single most in-demand voyage was the 35-day circumnavigation of Australia departing December 21, 2023, where more than 60% of capacity was filled in one day.

Across the board, all destinations saw strong bookings with Asia as the most popular and with the 2023-2024 South America sailings and 2024 Northern Europe itineraries on the 1,238-guest Marina performing exceptionally well. Africa, the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand also showed strong demand.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

About Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s seven small, luxurious ships carry a maximum of 1,238 guests and feature the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has a second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship on order for delivery in 2025. With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

About Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) is a leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. With a combined fleet of 28 ships with nearly 60,000 berths, these brands offer itineraries to more than 490 destinations worldwide. The Company has nine additional ships scheduled for delivery through 2027, comprising of approximately 24,000 berths.

My review of Celebrity Apex

GOLD MEDALIST AND WORLD CHAMPION SIMONE BILES NAMED GODMOTHER OF CELEBRITY BEYOND

/

Trailblazing Gymnast Will Officially Name Celebrity Cruises’ Groundbreaking Ship this November

MIAMI (May 10, 2022) – Celebrity Cruises announced today that Simone Biles, 19-time World Champion and seven-time Olympic Medalist, will add another very special title to her decorated career – godmother for Celebrity BeyondSM, the industry’s most highly anticipated ship of the year that recently debuted in Europe. 

A long-standing and highly regarded tradition for new ships, the role of Godmother is to inspire all guests and crew who sail on the ship, and it is considered a lifetime title and honor. In her role as Godmother, Biles will name Celebrity Beyond – the gold standard ship and newest and most luxurious vessel in the Celebrity fleet – at the official ceremony in Fort Lauderdale on November 4, 2022.

For its groundbreaking Edge Series ships, Celebrity is selecting equally transformational and courageous Godmothers who are breaking barriers and championing change in their respective fields. Biles joins Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai and Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code and the Marshall Plan for Moms, who serve as godmothers of Beyond’s sister ships Celebrity EdgeTM and Celebrity ApexSM respectively. 

“Simone is truly the G.O.A.T inside and outside of the gym, and I’m humbled and thrilled to welcome her as godmother of our newest ship Celebrity Beyond,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “While I’ve marveled at her abilities and historic accomplishments as a gymnast, it’s Simone’s courage to speak out and her ability to help others be better in sport and in life that has impressed me the most. She has risen to the occasion and overcome challenges time and time again. She is an inspiration.”

“I have a lot of great memories of cruising with my parents while growing up, so I am beyond excited to serve as godmother of Celebrity Beyond,” said Biles. “I am honored to join such a distinguished group of game-changing women and appreciate the important message this designation holds in recognizing our accomplishments, and hopefully inspiring the next generation of women.” 

Celebrity Beyond showcases the design talents of multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus; and lauded Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku; the innovation of British architect Tom Wright; and the culinary gifts of Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud. The ship also features experiences and products from goop CEO and founder Gwyneth Paltrow, the brand’s new Well-Being Advisor. The exquisite ship offers a journey at the intersection of elegance and approachability filled with what’s important to today’s discerning traveler: forward-thinking design, culinary excellence, unparalleled well-being and incomparable service.

Celebrity Beyond began her inaugural season on April 27, 2022 with a 10-night sailing from Southampton, England, to Barcelona, Spain, and will now spend the summer sailing nine-to-10-night itineraries in the Mediterranean. In November, Celebrity Beyond will make her way to Fort Lauderdale for the official naming ceremony and a winter season of five-to-nine-night Caribbean sailings. 

For more details on Celebrity Beyond offerings and destinations, visit www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-ships/celebrity-beyond. For more information on all Celebrity Cruises offerings, call 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com or speak with a travel advisor.


My review of Celebrity Apex

American Queen Voyages™ Celebrates Inaugural Expedition Season with Ocean Victory ™

/

Photo Caption (from left): Kathy DeLisser, regional vice president, Canada, Ceres Terminals Canada; Tom Corsie, vice president of real estate, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority; John Waggoner, founder & chairman, American Queen Voyages; Rosalind Campbell, councilor, Musqueam Indian Band; Karen Soyka, vice president of strategy & business development, Destination Vancouver; Carmen Ortega, trade development manager, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority; and Dean Wendt, dean, College of Science and Mathematics, California Polytechnic State University.

VANCOUVER, B.C., May 9, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, is debuting the cruise line’s first-ever Expedition experience with the inaugural sailing of Ocean Victory, which departed Vancouver, B.C. May, 7, 2022. Ocean Victory marks the arrival of the seventh vessel to the American Queen Voyages fleet, which also includes Rivers, Lakes & Oceans experiences. The new 186-guest vessel, created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, will sail between Vancouver, B.C., and Sitka, Alaska, on 12- and 13-day cruises May through September. Guests can expect up-close encounter travel experiences in The Last Frontier, working closely with the seasoned expedition and award-winning American Queen Voyages shore excursions teams, in addition to naturalists guiding hands-on learning opportunities, and more. 

“Alaska is a unique destination that to even begin to understand its vastness demands immersion with an expedition experience,” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages. “Ocean Victory will deliver guests an intimate sailing experience that really allows them to become captivated by the destination’s many natural wonders. We’re thrilled to have welcomed our first guests onboard as we embark on our journey to Alaska’s Inside Passage.”

Created for intimate access with an innovative X-Bow design, the vessel sails the less-traveled regions of Alaska’s Inside Passage where like-minded explorers will deploy kayaks and Zodiacs with expedition leaders, view wildlife from sliding observation platforms, witness marine research by California Polytechnic State University students in real-time and have engaging discussions with native Alaska leaders. 

“As we celebrate the debut of Ocean Victory, I am inspired by our growth from a one paddlewheel cruise line, the American Queen, to a fleet of vessels this very day sailing Mississippi, Kentucky, Washington, Prince Edward Island and Quebec,” shared John Waggoner, founder and chairman of American Queen Voyages. “Today we call on over 125 ports with seven vessels, employing over 670 teammates – far exceeding even the dreams of this boy of just one boat.”

As part of the American Queen Voyages expedition experience, the line has partnered with Dr. Michelle Fournet, director of the Sound Science Research Collective, for the inaugural Alaska expedition season of Ocean Victory.  The acclaimed acoustic ecologist is a leading expert in the communication of North Pacific humpback whales, and was profiled along with her Sound Science Research Collective team in the acclaimed documentary “Fathom.”

Fournet and the Sound Science Research Collective will collaborate with the American Queen Voyages expedition team as the ship becomes an extension of their research lab. Hydrophones will be used onboard Zodiacs to listen to the voices of Alaska’s whales in real-time. Guests will also learn about and participate in whale tracking through fluke identification by uploading their own photos from the vessel to a scientific database following their seasonal movements.

In port, inclusive shore excursions with knowledgeable experts and expedition guides provide meaningful opportunities to uncover the rich history, unique wildlife and fascinating cultures of each destination. Equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs and  kayaks, the itineraries will provide guests with in-depth explorations of Alaska’s natural, historic and cultural treasures.

The Ocean Victory inaugural Alaska season program highlights include: 

Anan Creek Bear and Wildlife Observatory: Guests venture into the Alaskan wilderness for a once-in-a-lifetime look at the forest’s wildlife in their natural habitat. They will travel by jet boat from Wrangell through the Eastern Passage to the Anan trailhead. Here, Anan Creek provides the perfect landscape for an observatory, as it is one of the largest salmon runs in Southeast Alaska. This makes it a prime location for the local bear population to feed, as well as bald eagles and harbor seals. At the Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory, guests will experience up-close views of these majestic creatures.

Five Finger Lighthouse: The historic Five Finger Lighthouse is located at the confluence of Stephen’s Passage and Frederick Sound in Southeast Alaska. The island on which it sits and the surrounding waters are a home to nesting seabirds, foraging songbirds, bald eagles, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, harbor porpoise, transient killer whales and large numbers of humpback whales.

Kake Tlingit Village: Experiencing the traditional culture of Kake, guests will be warmly welcomed by the Tlingit residents and encouraged to participate in their long-standing traditions. Just a short walk from the dock is the community hall, where a carving or weaving demonstration will take place. Then, guests can step onto the dancefloor where locals will perform traditional songs and dances. Finally they will see the world’s largest one-tree totem pole. 

Petersburg: In Petersburg, the Ocean Victory docks right beside Alaska’s largest home-based halibut fleet, which call this shallow, protected harbor home. These abundant waters, and an endless supply of ice from nearby LeConte Glacier, led Norwegian fisherman Peter Buschmann to build the region’s first cannery and invite his fishing countrymen to join him -  hence the town’s name and its strong Norwegian culture. Large cruise ships cannot come into Petersburg, so guests will be among a privileged few to dock in this charming, authentic Alaskan village.

Waterfall Coast: Guests will challenge themselves to keep track of the number of waterfalls encountered along Baranof Island’s beautiful eastern coast, the little known “waterfall coast.” Some can be seen from any of Ocean Victory’s observation perspectives, or right at water level by kayak or Zodiac. This almost hidden shoreline is perfect for discovery with seals, deer, and tidepools ready to reveal secret treasures.

The brand new expedition ship Ocean Victory will sail between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka, Alaska on 12- and 13-day journeys including a pre-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver, B.C. or Sitka, and calling on: Canadian Inside Passage; Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet); Ketchikan; Misty Fjords National Monument; Wrangell/Stikine River Wilderness; Waterfall Coast/Baranof Wilderness; Petersburg/Le Conte Glacier; Tracy Arm/Endicott Glacier; Kake/Frederick Sound/Five Finger; and Sitka, Alaska. Sailings are available May through September 2022.

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

Hurtigruten Group launches ESG report – calls for more transparency from travel industry

/

SAILING INTO THE FUTURE: MS Richard With in Raftsundet, Norway. PHOTO: Trym Ivar Bergsmo.

Hurtigruten Group opens its books on emissions and social responsibility and commits to science-based targets in its new ESG report. The adventure travel group emphasizes how reducing emissions must be the number one goal for travel companies while calling for greater transparency in the industry – particularly from those that operate cruise ships.

“We operate in an industry which negatively impacts the environment, so we have a collective responsibility to be more transparent and accountable when it comes to our natural and social impact. Sustainability is not a marketing exercise, it’s a core part of business. It’s a licence to operate and more importantly, it’s the right thing to do”, said CEO of Hurtigruten Group Daniel Skjeldam.

Among other things, the report details how the Group’s three business areas: Hurtigruten Norway, Hurtigruten Expeditions and Hurtigruten Svalbard achieved their own ESG milestones in 2021.

Last year, Hurtigruten Expeditions launched its third battery-hybrid ship MS Otto Sverdrup while MS Fridtjof Nansen was awarded the world’s most sustainable ship by Scope ESG and Stern Magazine. In addition, Hurtigruten Norway set in motion plans to launch Europe’s most environmentally fleet upgrade to reduce emissions by 25% and NoX by 80%, while Hurtigruten Svalbard partnered with Volvo Penta to develop it first hybrid day cruiser.

SETTING THE DIRECTION: MS Roald Amundsen at 70 degrees south (Antarctica). PHOTO: Werner Kruse

“I am extremely proud of our colleagues both at land and sea for achieving many other ESG successes despite operating in a pandemic. We have been a first mover on sustainability for decades, and we will continue to be a catalyst for change towards a greener travel industry - to protect what we love today, tomorrow and into the future”, Skjeldam added.

SETTING THE DIRECTION: MS Roald Amundsen at 70 degrees south (Antarctica). PHOTO: Werner Kruse. 

The report offers an in-depth review of Hurtigruten Group’s path towards sustainable travel in the future. Among the highlights are its intention to launch the first zero emission ship on the Norwegian coast by 2030, have fully carbon neutral operations by 2040 and ultimately becoming emission free by 2050.

All these milestones recognize the importance of solid governance, environmental stewardship and social responsibility for the Group’s long-term business strategy and creating value for investors.

Hurtigruten Group’s ESG report for 2021 was developed in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard. Please find a link to the report here.

For more information or interviews, please email Elma Secerovic on elma.secerovic@hurtigruten.com.

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

MSC CRUISES SETS SIGHTS ON SUSTAINABILITY WITH SUMMER SHORE EXCURSIONS

/

  • More low-carbon tours in the Caribbean and Europe

  • Hybrid and electric buses to shuttle guests in Denmark, Finland, Norway, Spain and Sweden

  • More ‘Protectours’ to be available at up to 90 destinations

Geneva, Switzerland – May 9, 2022 – MSC Cruises’ collection of summer 2022 shore excursions will have its strongest ever focus on minimizing the environmental impact of land-based experiences and supporting nature-positive activities.

More electric and hybrid shuttle buses will shuttle guests from ports to places of interest in Denmark, Finland, Norway, Spain and Sweden, with MSC Cruises aiming to further increase the utilization of green ground transportation in the future.

Low carbon footprint excursions will include 150 bicycle tours available in 21 countries – which are growing in popularity among the line’s guests – and more sustainable shore excursions called ‘Protectours’ that MSC Cruises first introduced in 2020 will be available.

Up to 70 percent of Protectours will have a low environmental impact thanks to an increase in the number of walking, hiking, bicycling, canoeing and kayaking excursions ashore, with many tours set to make a direct contribution to the environment by helping the protection of habitats and species.

MSC Cruises worked extensively in 2021 to provide tour operators with responsible and sustainable tourism training. ‘Protectours’ will be available at 20 ports when the summer of 2022 begins and will expand to up to 90 destinations by the season’s end.

Examples of ‘Protectours’ available include nature walking tours in the Bahamas; planting trees to replenish lost forests in the Greek island of Rhodes; collecting plastic waste from the beaches of the Adriatic Sea; making eco-friendly jewellery in Helsinki, Finland; urban farming and beekeeping in Rotterdam, The Netherlands; organic rooftop farming in Copenhagen, Denmark; and stone cleaning in Scotland.

Marialuisa Iaccarino, Head of Shore Excursions, MSC Cruises, said: “Travel and tourism has a very significant role to play in global decarbonization and we need to demonstrate leadership by ensuring that we meet the expectation of travelers who are more aware and engaged in sustainability matters and the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

“At MSC Cruises we are determined to prove that the industry is a positive and engaged player in driving sustainable tourism.”

MSC Cruises will offer nearly 1,400 shore excursions for summer 2022 – the line’s largest offering to date. The Caribbean will host 200 different excursions, along with Northern Europe’s 640 and the Mediterranean’s 550. Every MSC Cruises sailing is set to feature something for every type of vacationer, regardless of age and interests.

Guests who book any of MSC Cruises’ summer 2022 shore excursions will benefit from a price reduction of up to 20 percent if booked in advance. Pre-booking guarantees a space on the most popular tours and guarantees entry to some of the world’s most popular attractions, which may not have walk-up ticket availability the day of a visit.

MSC Cruises has also waived the ‘safe bubble’ shore excursions requirement it pioneered for the cruise industry in 2020 as part of its response to the pandemic ashore, so guests can make their own sightseeing arrangements subject to the regulations set by local authorities.

The Swiss-based line has a long-term goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions for its operations by 2050. This will be achieved by investing in and supporting the accelerated development and implementation of innovative, cutting-edge technologies to be deployed across the Company’s fleet of ships.

For more details about MSC Protectors, click here.

For more details about MSC Cruises’ shore excursions, click here.

Cunard explores all corners of the world with new 2023 and 2024 sailings, including maiden voyages on new ship Queen Anne

/

Queen Anne. Welcome to the world.

VALENCIA, Calif., May 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury cruise brand Cunard unveils over 110 international voyages, sailing on its iconic fleet between October 23, 2023 and May 14, 2024, including the maiden voyages on new ship Queen Anne.

"Our new voyage program offers four magnificent ships in the Cunard fleet for the first time since 1999."

Across the new itineraries, the four-ship fleet comprising of Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Anne, will call at 126 unique ports in 51 countries, with voyages ranging from two-night city breaks to a 108-night world voyage.

Queen Anne is scheduled to call at more than 32 ports across the world during her maiden season, all sailing out of Southampton. Following her maiden voyage to the enchanting city of Lisbon, the newest Queen will embark on a collection of enticing sailings in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe as well as an Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing.

In 2024, Queen Victoria will embark on a 107-night World Voyage, departing Southampton on a full circumnavigation.  The ship will sail westbound to North America, including a transit of the Panama Canal, onwards to Australia, Asia, and returning to Europe via South Africa, visiting 32 unique destinations across her new voyages.

Queen Mary 2, the world's only ocean liner, will begin her season with an Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing from New York, before setting off from Southampton on a 108-night World Voyage.  The liner will sail to the Mediterranean, Asia via the Suez Canal, Australia and returning to Europe via South Africa. 

Following a fly-cruise season in Barcelona, Queen Elizabeth will relocate to Singapore before starting her Australian residency with a 6-night voyage from Fremantle. She'll then embark on a series of short break and roundtrip voyages from Melbourne and Sydney, including a Christmas and New Year voyage to New Zealand, a 10-night exploration of Queensland, and a new 14-night voyage calling in the South Pacific.

"Announcing each new voyage program for Cunard is always exciting, but this year is even more so, as guests will be able to choose itineraries across four magnificent ships in the fleet for the first time since 1999," said Matt Gleaves, Vice President, Commercial, North America. "Each ship offers a unique experience with distinct itineraries: Queen Anne will be based out of Southampton, Queen Elizabeth out of Australia and Japan, and Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 will both sail world voyages, one with a full circumnavigation and one exploring the finest destinations across the Mediterranean, Asia, Australia and Africa. Our new voyages bring opportunities to explore all corners of the world in luxurious surroundings while enjoying our White Star Service as well as all the other special touches that make a trip with Cunard so special."

Itinerary Highlights: Welcome to The World 2023 & 2024 New Voyages 

Maiden Voyage (H403)
Guests can join an illustrious guest list on board Queen Anne's maiden voyage to Lisbon as Cunard celebrates a new chapter of Cunard history. Sailing roundtrip from Southampton on January 4, 2024, this  7-night voyage will offer an overnight port call in which to savour Lisbon's UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, the exquisite palaces of Sintra, and the wonderfully atmospheric nightlife of the Barrio Alto. On her return to Southampton, our newest Queen will be joined by her sister ships Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, marking the first time these three Queens will come together – a fitting end to a voyage filled with celebratory moments. Inside staterooms from $1,899 per person.

Eastern Caribbean (H405)
Guests can relax and take pleasure in all that the newest ship has to offer on this 35-night Caribbean adventure that takes in the tropical islands of Barbados and St Lucia amongst others. Queen Anne departs Southampton January 27, 2024. Inside staterooms from $7,799 per person.

Western Mediterranean (H408)
This 16-night voyage comprises a mix of days at sea and time in port, offering the chance to discover the delights on board Cunard's new ship as well as the fascinating histories of Lisbon, Cadiz and Rome. Queen Anne departs Southampton March 29, 2024. Inside staterooms from $3,299 per person.

Full World Voyage (V404D)
This stunning 107-night World Voyage offers the perfect opportunity to see the four corners of the world. Destinations including San Francisco and Fiji plus overnights in Hong Kong and South Africa. Queen Victoria departs Southampton January 11, 2024. Inside staterooms from 18,499 per person.

Southampton to Sydney (M403B)
Blissful days at sea on board provide a relaxing balance between time ashore in Portugal, South Africa and Australia on this 47-night sailing that includes three overnight port calls. Queen Mary 2 departs Southampton January 11, 2024. Inside staterooms from $7,999 per person.

Queensland (Q405)
The wondrous white sands of the Whitsunday Islands and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Barrier Reef are among the natural highlights of this 10-night voyage. Queen Elizabeth departs Sydney January 22, 2024. Inside staterooms from $1,999 per person.

Southern Islands (Q417)
The 10-night round trip voyage sailing from Tokyo will transports guests from neon-lit streets to historic shrines, stately castles and natural habitats, abundant with beauty. Queen Elizabeth departs Tokyo May 14, 2024. Inside staterooms from $2,299 per person.

From the bustle of vibrant cities, beauty of tropical shores to the wonder of historic treasures, the inspiring new itineraries from Cunard bring an ocean of opportunities to explore all corners of the world.

The 2023 and 2024 new voyages sailing on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth are available to book from May 24, 2022 and Queen Anne's maiden sailings are available to book from May 17, 2022.

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.

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

Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

MSC CRUISES REVAMPS LOYALTY PROGRAM WITH NEW INCENTIVES FOR ALL MEMBERS

/

Voyagers Exclusives replaces Voyages Selection with discounts for all sailings

Geneva, Switzerland – May 5, 2022 – MSC Cruises is revamping its MSC Voyagers Club loyalty program with a range of new and attractive benefits.

The new Voyagers Exclusives feature offers fantastic savings for members, all of whom will automatically benefit from a minimum discount of five percent for any cruise booked at any time. This replaces the former Voyages Selection feature, which offered savings for only a select number of itineraries on MSC Cruises’ global sailing schedule.

Additionally, guests will find more opportunities to save by booking further in advance. Any sailing booked at least six months prior to departure will result in a further five percent discount. Silver, Gold and Diamond tier members booking at least nine months ahead of the sailing will receive the five plus five percent discount, plus $50/€50 shipboard credit.

All members who book any MSC Cruises’ vacation at sea at least 12 months before departure will receive double reward points.

Achille Staiano, VP, Global Sales, MSC Cruises said: “The new Voyagers Exclusives scheme is set to reward each and every member of our loyalty program with every booking made for our entire portfolio of ships and itineraries year-round.

“We know that our Voyagers Club members are always keen to move from one tier up to another and the double points available for bookings made 12 months prior to departure are a fast track to success on all counts.

“All-in-all, Voyagers Exclusives has benefits for everyone who joins up when they book a holiday at sea with MSC Cruises.”

Members of loyalty programs run by other cruise lines, hotels and tour operators can also transfer to the MSC Voyages Club via the MSC Status Match, which is available through travel agents or online at MSC Cruises’ website.

New promotion for MSC Voyagers Club members for summer 2022 sailings

MSC Cruises also launched a new Summer 2022 promotion exclusively for MSC Voyagers Club members. Those who book any cruise before June 30, 2022—for sailings before October 30, 2022—will receive $50/€50 shipboard credit per person and 700 extra points on top of the usual five percent discount. Plus, the extra points will be credited to the guest’s account before departure, helping them to reach the next status level faster and enjoy the benefits sooner.

My review of Celebrity Apex