62 DESTINATIONS ACROSS SIX CONTINENTS: SILVERSEA’S TALE OF TALES WORLD CRUISE 2022 CONCLUDES IN COPENHAGEN

Silversea Cruises® operated the only ultra-luxury world cruise in 2022, welcoming celebrated creatives—‘Tale Tellers’—aboard Silver Whisper® to enrich guests’ experiences 

(Monaco -- May 24, 2022) Guests traveling aboard Silversea Cruises’ Silver Whisper arrived in Copenhagen on May 22, marking the conclusion of the Tale of Tales World Cruise—the only ultra-luxury world cruise to have operated in 2022.

Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO, and Barbara Muckermann, Chief Commercial Officer, bid farewell to guests at a special gala dinner at Oslo’s historic Gamle Logen on May 18, celebrating the finale of a hugely successful world cruise. Over 138 days, travelers discovered 62 destinations in 30 countries across six continents, journeying from 65° south to 65° north—taking in such contrasting destinations as Antarctica and Iceland, Turkey and South Africa, and South Georgia and the Seychelles.

“We are incredibly proud to have welcomed guests aboard Silver Whisper for our Tale of Tales World Cruise 2022, overcoming many challenges to operate the only ultra-luxury world cruises of the year,” said Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO. “We thank our guests for joining us on this great voyage—their support and enthusiasm encouraged us to push ahead. In the company of some of the world’s foremost creative storytellers, our guests enjoyed some of the most authentic experiences available in the planet’s most enriching destinations—on an itinerary that was mostly unchanged from the original. I must thank our phenomenal crew, who are the unsung heroes of the voyage. Overwhelmingly strong demand for our world cruises in 2023 and 2024 meant that they sold out very quickly, but we will soon unveil more details on Silversea’s innovative world cruise for 2025.”

IN THE COMPANY OF TALE TELLERS

Seven celebrated creatives—Tale Tellers—joined Silversea’s guests aboard Silver Whisper throughout the world cruise 2022, enriching the experience with insightful presentations and interacting with guests along the way. Each Tale Teller will contribute a chapter to the Tale of Tales anthology, which, inspired by their experiences, will be gifted to guests as a keepsake. The Tale Tellers for Silversea’s World Cruise 2022 included:

  • Nicholas Crane, former President of the Royal Geographical Society;

  • Pico Iyer, global essayist, novelist, and travel writer;

  • Monica Hanna, internationally acclaimed figure in the world of archaeology;

  • Eamonn Gearon, renowned author, analyst, and public historian;

  • Steve McCurry, iconic voice in contemporary photography for more than three decades;

  • Asma Khan, celebrated chef, restaurant owner, and cookbook author;

  • Christina Franco, pioneering explorer, guide and Polar Race winner.

"Meeting old friends again on the World Cruise, making new ones--and hearing the wondrous stories that almost every guest and crew member seems to offer--was a delight once more,” said Pico Iyer. “As was living in royal splendor amidst the impeccable service and the constant thoughtfulness that mark the Silversea experience. My wife and I have now had the chance to take three Silversea cruises in just over three years--to French Polynesia, Antarctica and now Zanzibar and the Seychelles. How can the rest of life ever compare?"

BESPOKE EVENTS, AN OVERLAND PROGRAM AND OTHER ENRICHMENTS

As well as an immersive overland experience in Cappadocia, Turkey, guests enjoyed a series of regionally inspired onboard events, a special range of exclusive shore excursions, and bespoke world cruise events ashore. Special world cruise events included:

  • Fort Lauderdale – January 5, 2022

Following a welcome cocktail event with canapés from around the world, a welcome feast was served aboard Silver Whisper on January 5 to mark the commencement of the voyage. Decorations, flags and bunting from the visited countries adorned the ship’s main restaurant, as guests sampled regional cuisine from a selection of destinations. Special entertainment enriched the evening, showcasing performances inspired by local cultures from the sailed itinerary.

  • Cartagena, Colombia – January 10, 2022

Guests travelling aboard Silver Whisper for the Tale of Tales World Cruise 2022 enjoyed an authentic fiesta in Cartagena, Colombia, on January 10, inspired by the rhythm of Colombia’s vivacious music tradition. Folkloric dancers and local musicians entertained travelers with a steel drum performance as they paraded down the city’s cobbled streets – lined with colorful, colonial buildings. Guests sampled regional cuisine and local drinks at the beautiful Casa 1537 for a true taste of Colombia.

  • Cape Town, South Africa – February 23, 2022

An exclusive evening of festivities awaited guests at the disused Hillcrest Quarry in Cape Town, South Africa, on February 23. Accompanied by an orchestra, performers from the Ubuntu Opera and the South African Youth Choir entertained Silversea’s guests, before travelers enjoyed a five-course meal by an award-winning chef under the stars in one of the country’s most unique venues. Among the highlights of the evening was a performance by 18-year-old Thandolwethu Longo, who Silversea will sponsor at Cape Town Opera’s Foundation Studio Program.

  • Seville, Spain – April 21, 2022

An industry first, Silversea welcomed guests to an exclusive performance of the Carmen Suite at the Cartuja Center in Seville, on April 21 – a one-act ballet created in 1967 by legendary Cuban choreographer, Alberto Alonso, with accompanying music by Rodion Shchedrin. Set in the hometown of Carmen to the music of French composer Georges Bizet, the special performance was preceded by a welcome cocktail and appetizers, and a gala dinner in the main auditorium. Live flamenco Music entertained guests as they dined, before the Carmen Suite ballet performance headlined the occasion.

  • Oslo, Norway – May 18, 2022

Commemorating the conclusion of the Tale of Tales World Cruise 2022, guests attended a farewell gala dinner at Oslo’s famousGamle Logen banqueting hall—an historic venue that has a rich legacy of entertaining royalty—on May 18. Entertainment was befitting of the nobility who once frequented the venue, channelling the nation’s culture to deliver a memorable evening of musical performance and authentic cuisine. The five-course meal incorporated the freshest local produce, such as lobster tail, seared Frøya salmon, cauliflower soup with king crab, grilled beef tournedos, and handpicked Norwegian strawberries.

CONTROTEMPO WORLD CRUISE 2025

Following exceptionally strong demand, Silversea’s world cruises for 2023 and 2024 are fully booked, and the cruise line will soon share details on its global sailing for 2025. Introduced in brief by Barbara Muckermann at the world cruise’s farewell gala dinner, the ‘Controtempo’ world cruise will set sail in January 2025, unlocking new experiences in iconic destinations during unconventional seasons. Silversea’s well-travelled guests will experience familiar destinations in a whole new light, with immersive moments tailored by the cruise line’s destination experts that best showcase each place’s people and stories.

“Our guests have seen much of the world,” says Barbara Muckermann. “But our Controtempo world cruise in 2025 will unlock new ways of travelling even deeper into the planet’s most familiar, iconic destinations, while also journeying off-beat to all-new places, too. Our close-knit community of world-cruising guests is exceptionally passionate about discovering new experiences and Controtempo will enable them to do exactly this. Silversea has long excelled at delivering unique moments in luxury, but the newest iteration of our flagship voyage will raise the bar to all new heights.”

Watch a teaser video on Silversea’s Controtempo World Cruise 2025:

https://youtu.be/pBuqlR1Fmus

Find more information on Silversea’s upcoming world cruises:

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/world-cruise.html

Read related articles on Silversea’s blog, Discover:

https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/world-cruise/


Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES NAMES MICHAEL SHAPIRO WORLD NAVIGATOR’S CRUISE DIRECTOR

Veteran Cruise Director and Entertainer Delivers Engaging Programming Aboard Luxe-adventure Voyages in Western Europe, Norwegian Fjords and the Arctic

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., May 23, 2022 – Atlas Ocean Voyages welcomes seasoned Cruise Director, Actor and Vocalist Michael Shapiro as Cruise Director for World Navigator’s Summer 2022 season. Michael brings more than 30 years of travel and tourism industry experience, 16 as Cruise Director aboard small luxury ships. Additionally, his professional acting and vocal talents will add a luxe-adventure and entertaining flair aboard World Navigator as guests enjoy unforgettable voyages in England, Holland, France, the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, Greenland, and The Arctic. For more information about Atlas Ocean Voyages, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

"Michael’s talent and extensive experience will be the cornerstone upon which Atlas creates and delivers engaging guest entertainment and programming on our summer voyages,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. "His extensive travel experience and dedication to guest service will seamlessly connect travelers with the captivating destinations where World Navigator will visit. And his personal flair will add to World Navigator’s casually elegant and fun ambiance, a hallmark of Atlas’ luxe-adventure style."

As a seasoned traveler himself, Michael has visited more than 76 countries. He had previously served as Cruise Director aboard the storied and small ships Song of Flower and Paul Gauguin. While aboard those ships, Michael helped create an innovative, five-star cruise products and played a crucial role in day-to-day ship operations. He has also performed as vocalist in venues around the world and his professional acting experience includes supporting roles in Saturday Night Live and in the short film, Mr. Zummenshine.
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 November 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 England, Holland, France, the 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. World Traveller will sail her inaugural season in Antarctica, followed by South and Central America, Western Europe, Morocco and Canary Islands, and Iceland, Greenland and the Arctic voyages in summer 2023. 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), 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

American Queen Voyages™ Ocean Navigator™ Welcomed to Navy Pier, Chicago’s Waterfront Destination

Ocean Navigator is the Only Overnight Cruise Ship to Dock in Downtown Chicago

Photographed attendees (Left to Right): Bill Annand, vice president vessel operations, American Queen Voyages; Captain Gary Kerr, Ocean Navigator, American Queen Voyages; Lynn Osmond, chief executive officer, Choose Chicago; Marilynn Gardner, President & CEO at Navy Pier Inc; Kimberly Bares, President & CEO at The Magnificent Mile Association; Dan Russell, Co-Chief Operating Officer, City Cruises

Chicago – May 18, 2022 American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, celebrated the maiden arrival of Ocean Navigator™, with her first guests arriving at Chicago's Navy Pier. Through an exclusive partnership with sister company City Experiences,  American Queen Voyages is the only overnight cruise line to dock at the downtown Chicago destination. Sister ship Ocean Voyager™, will  also call on Chicago’s Navy Pier for the first time on June 8, as the two boutique coastal ships offer unique Lakes & Oceans experiences designed to navigate the locks of the St. Lawrence Seaway and all five Great Lakes. City and state leaders including Choose Chicago CEO Lynn Osmond, Navy Pier President & CEO Marilynn Gardner, and Magnificent Mile Association President & CEO Kimberly Bares welcomed American Queen Voyages executives and Captain Gary Kerr to Chicago.  

“Today, we celebrate the arrival of American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Navigator and Chicago as a cruise destination,” said Lynn Osmond, chief executive officer, Choose Chicago. “Chicago’s tourism industry plays a large role contributing to the vibrancy of the city, and we are thrilled to have partners like American Queen Voyages who offer extraordinary experiences for our locals and tourists alike.” 

Ocean Navigator holds only 202 guests, delivering immersive Lakes & Oceans experiences in North America sailing the Great Lakes, Canada, New England, Southeast U.S.A., Yucatan & Mexico. The arriving sailing originated in Toronto while the embarking voyage of Ocean Navigator will be a 11-day itinerary touching all five Great Lakes and calling on ports including Mackinac Island, Soo Locks, Sault Ste Marie, Little Current, Detroit, Cleveland, Port Colborne (Niagara Falls) and disembarking in Toronto. 

“Travelers are ready to make up for lost time and are eager to deeply discover North America now and Chicago is a stunning backdrop to embark on that journey,” shared Isis Ruiz, chief commercial officer, American Queen Voyages. “Ocean Navigator’s arrival at Navy Pier is a fitting way to celebrate tourism in Chicago, exploring the city’s bounty of culture and history. We look forward to an exciting season showcasing the many treasures across the Great Lakes.” 

American Queen Voyages Great Lakes voyages of 11 to 16-days call on North America’s historic five Great Lakes and the storied St. Lawrence River. Port highlights include exploring the Victorian-era charm of Mackinac Island, historic Soo Locks, breathtaking Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world, the world-famous Horseshoe Falls of Niagara Falls, the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. All cruises include a pre-cruise hotel night and in Chicago offer an optional of the iconic  architecture tour from the water.  In addition, guests sailing on the fall Great Lakes itineraries will enjoy overnight excursions in several city ports for the first time including Toronto and Mackinac Island on American Queen Voyages.

American Queen Voyages is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2022 as the leader in encounter travel, offering a comprehensive portfolio of North American itineraries comprised of Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition experiences.

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

CARNIVAL WELCOMES TWO MILLION GUESTS SINCE RESTART

MIAMI, May 19, 2022 – As the first major U.S. cruise line with its full fleet back in guest service since the industry’s restart last summer, Carnival Cruise Line has now reached the milestone of welcoming two million guests.

The milestone was commemorated today in Port Canaveral, Fla. aboard Carnival Freedom as the Gibbs family – Daniel and Kristi with son Mason and grandmother Theresa Campbell – from Ocala, Fla. boarded the ship. They were surprised with fanfare from Carnival Freedom’s Captain Mario Imbimbo, Hotel Director, Cruise Director and team members.  A video is available here https://youtu.be/iewulbCIWKo.

The company’s industry pace-setting restart began on July 3, 2021 when Carnival Vista set sail from Galveston and since then 22 additional ships have resumed service, from 13 U.S. homeports all while guests were helping to raise $2.25 million for partner, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

In addition, during this time, guests have taken more than 1.3 million shore excursions in Carnival’s destination ports, and two million Carnival-branded items have been sold in the gift shops fleetwide, including 150,000 items from the line’s 50thBirthday collection.

“We are so pleased to have sailed two million guests since our restart, providing much-needed vacations featuring our signature fun to an array of destinations in the CaribbeanThe Bahamas, the Mexican RivieraAlaska and Europe,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “All the while, providing an economic boost to those destinations and providing our crew members with opportunities to support their families.” 

Carnival will restart in its 14th homeport of New York City in June with Carnival Magic and has announced plans that Carnival Splendor will restart in Australia following its Alaska season with a three-day cruise departing Sydney on October 2, 2022.  And in November, Carnival’s newest ship, Carnival Celebration, featuring a roller coaster and powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), will debut in Miami.

            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.


Azamara Partnership with Versonix Seaware Set to Launch in 2023 

Azamara’s partnership with leading software company Versonix will improve the overall experience for its travel partners and guests, set to launch Q1 of 2023 

 MIAMI (May 19, 2022) – Azamara, an upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, will officially partner with Versonix Seaware, a leading software company that provides an integrated platform to cruise lines that maximizes efficiency through sales, marketing and revenue yield management capabilities. Through investing in this partnership, set to launch at the beginning of 2023, Azamara is committed to simplifying the overall booking experience with updated technology platforms for its trusted travel advisors and guests, making the business process with Azamara as seamless as possible.

“We are very pleased to officially partner with Versonix Seaware to provide a more seamless customer experience for our travel partners when booking with Azamara,” said Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. “We’re focused on creating a smooth transition for travel advisors and guests to our new Seaware reservations platform.”

The launch of Azamara’s new reservations platform will be developed in partnership with Versonix Seaware, which has revolutionized the cruise and travel industry by powering reservations for over 20 million passengers and 100 ships around the world each year. Today, Versonix Seaware’s best in class reservation platform maintains a customer centric and revenue management driven solution, leading its customers to achieve consistent and successful results by being the only true business rules-based system in the industry. Serving as a common point for all distribution channels including OTA, GDS, B2B, B2C and contact center, guaranteeing seamless integration. 

“We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with Azamara, and to be part of its new and differentiated experiences for guests and travel agents,” said Yuri Polissky, Chief Operating Officer of Versonix. “Versonix Seaware will be arming Azamara to deliver world class service to travel agents and guests, while providing a seamless and hassle-free reservations booking experience. In addition, Versonix Seaware will enable Azamara to enhance its Destination Immersion® experiences even further.”

In advance of the system going live, travel advisors currently enrolled with Azamara will receive robust training along with their personal log-in details. 


Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

THE FUTURE OF CRUISING IS COMING, WITH JUST SIX MONTHS UNTIL THE LAUNCH OF MSC WORLD EUROPA – MSC CRUISES’ TRAIL-BLAZING NEW FLAGSHIP

  • MSC World Europa pushes the boundaries of what is possible at sea with host of spectacular new features for guests to discover

  • Ship to become MSC Cruises’ most sustainable ship ever, powered by cleaner LNG fuel with green technology integrated throughout

Geneva, Switzerland – May 19, 2022 – MSC Cruises’ ultramodern urban metropolis at sea is just six months from entering service—setting a new standard for cruising and introducing a world of experiences that push the boundaries of what is possible. MSC World Europa will be the company’s most innovative, most environmentally advanced, and most exciting ship to-date. The eagerly anticipated new flagship is the first of MSC Cruises’ trail-blazing World Class ships. At 22 decks tall and more than 150 feet wide, she features 2,626 cabins and boasts more than 430,000 square feet of public space.

With so many new features and adventures to discover, here are 9 reasons why MSC World Europa will be the ultimate ship to launch in 2022:

1. The Promenade – the beating heart of the ship

The 341-foot-long long, 7-deck-high outdoor World Promenade is one of the most impressive spaces on this incredible ship. Opening out to the aft with breath-taking sea views, the promenade offers one-of-a-kind entertainment and al-fresco dining experiences.

THE PROMENADE WILL BE THE BEATING HEART OF THE SHIP

The crowning glory of the promenade is a striking architectural masterpiece, The Venom Drop @ The Spiral, which is the longest dry slide at sea and spans 11 decks. Spectators can admire the beauty of its sleek stainless-steel curves, while those feeling brave can jump on and experience the quickest (and most thrilling) way to get from the top of the ship to the promenade with the slide’s nearly 250-foot drop.

The promenade continues indoors with the World Galleria—covering more than 3,200 square feet and topped with an awe-inspiring LED and kinetic dome ceiling. The space is lined with bars, restaurants, shops and boutiques.

2. Savor the World with outstanding restaurants, bars and lounges

MSC World Europa will transport guests on a gastronomic journey around the world with an incredible choice of 33 restaurants, bars and lounges – each with its own distinct style and ambiance. Globally inspired menus, best-in-class culinary artistry, and quality ingredients prepared with passion will result in exceptional eating and drinking experiences.

The ship will offer a spectacular range of 13 dining venues, including 6 specialty restaurants with two brand new concepts for MSC Cruises:

  • Chef’s Garden Kitchen is the first hydroponic garden at sea, where the ingredients take center stage with micro herbs, salads and garnishes grown and harvested on board.

  • La Pescaderia is MSC Cruises’ new signature Mediterranean fish restaurant offering the freshest fish. Sophistication meets casual and family dining—a must for all guests!

Guests will also find MSC Cruises favorites including the Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse; the Latin American street food of Hola! Tacos & Cantina; and Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi bar.

THE BRAND NEW CHEF’S GARDEN KITCHEN WILL BE THE FIRST HYDROPONIC GARDEN AT SEA

The 20 bars and lounges onboard include 7 brand new bar and café concepts like the line’s first onboard microbrewery, a new gin bar, a cocktail bar honoring the art of mixology, and much more.

3. Awe-inspiring entertainment for all ages

Guests will experience a whole new level of entertainment across a host of venues including grand-scale theater productions, immersive performances in the aft lounge, and interactive family entertainment in the Luna Park Arena. Plus, they can let their hair down at the roller-disco or let their inner child free with the bumper cars.

Venues include:

  • The Panorama Lounge at the aft of the ship will offer eye-popping, immersive entertainment.

  • The stylish 1,153 seat World Theatre will host original productions each night of the cruise.

  • The versatile Luna Park Arena is a new multifunctional entertainment venue that will host movies, game shows, kids’ activities and themed parties.

4. MSC Cruises’ largest and most technologically advanced family offering

MSC World Europa's children's area will be the largest in the fleet, developed in collaboration with LEGO® and Chicco® with over 8,200 square feet of interior space and seven rooms dedicated to distinct age groups ranging from 0 to 17 years old.

Entertainment for children and teenagers will be even more varied thanks to original game and talent show formats that will be created for The Studio, Luna Park Arena and the World Theatre.

Finally, extended operating hours at the Kids Club and Teens Club will allow younger cruisers to be accompanied by staff and enjoy other attractions onboard MSC World Europa, including bumper cars, the dry slide, and the virtual room.

5. Relax and unwind with the ultimate leisure and wellness escape

Whether the aim is to relax and unwind or enjoy thrills and adventure, the seven swimming pools and 13 whirlpools located in distinct parts of the ship offer something for every vacationer.

Highlights include:

  • Brand-new tranquil Zen Pool area at the aft of the ship: This ultra-chic area is adults-only and features two pools, a solarium, and a shady lounge area – all offering spectacular sea views from deck 18.

  • The MSC Yacht Club features an extensive sundeck spanning two levels, private pool, and whirlpool.

  • The Aquapark on deck 20 is the largest in MSC Cruises fleet, featuring a kids’ pool and slides for the whole family.

  • La Plage – the main pool is the place to be for those looking for fun and entertainment with an incredible 37,000-square-foot pool deck area complete with different levels for sunbathing.

  • The Botanic Garden Pool with retractable roof, tropical bar, and area for lounging.

6. A next-level MSC Yacht Club for premium cruising

MSC World Europa will feature the largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club yet, offering unparalleled levels of comfort with more public space, expanded outdoor areas, and new stylish suites that share the ship’s futuristic design.

The exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept offers key-card access exclusivity and top-notch personal service. Enhanced public spaces include a totally reimagined two-level sundeck, while the private accommodations will include two brand-new ultra-spacious Owner-Suites.

7. Innovative new accommodation design

MSC World Europa is as different on the inside as she is on the outside, with all-new cabin designs and more balcony cabins than any ship in the fleet. From luxurious suites with private facilities in the MSC Yacht Club to brand-new cabins overlooking the outdoor promenade, there are high-quality, comfortable accommodations to satisfy every taste.

The ship will offer seven new and innovative cabin types not seen on any other MSC Cruises ship, and more suites than ever will have private whirlpools.

Another highlight is the new Infinite Ocean View cabins with a panoramic window that slides down to form a glass balustrade when open.

8. The ultimate itineraries

MSC World Europa will spend her inaugural season in the Gulf region to provide guests the ultimate winter cruise experience. Her season will commence on December 20, 2022 with a special 4-night sailing from Doha, Qatar to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

MSC World Europa will then offer 7-night cruises from Dubai to the nearby modern metropolis of Abu Dhabi before continuing to Sir Bani Yas Island, where guests will have a chance to discover an exotic array of wildlife or bask in the warm sun on immaculate beaches. Sir Bani Yas is exclusive to MSC Cruises on days during which the ships call. Her program in the Gulf has been enriched with calls in the port of Dammam, Saudi Arabia to visit Al Ahsa oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ship also calls at Doha, the futuristic capital of Qatar, before returning to Dubai with an overnight in the city to discover all the marvels it has to offer.

Departing Dubai on March 25, 2023, MSC World Europa will head to the Mediterranean Sea. During the summer of 2023, she will offer 7-night cruises calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina; as well as Valletta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain; and Marseille, France.

9. MSC World Europa to become one of the most environmentally advanced ships at sea

MSC World Europa will be the first LNG-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the most environmentally advanced to date. The fuel she runs on—liquefied natural gas (LNG)—is one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale and is set to play a key role in the decarbonization (or transition to zero emissions) of international shipping. It virtually eliminates local air pollutant emissions like sulphur oxides and reduces nitrogen oxides by up to 85%. LNG also plays a key role in climate change mitigation, as it reduces CO2 emissions by 25% and paves the way for the uptake of sustainable non-fossil fuels like green hydrogen. A demonstration fuel cell onboard will test the efficiency of this technology by producing heat and electricity about 30 percent more efficiently than the LNG engines would on their own.

MSC World Europa will also feature selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, shore-to-ship power connectivity, and advanced wastewater treatment systems to comply with the so-called Baltic standard, which features the strictest global criteria for wastewater disposal at sea. The ship’s underwater radiated noise management system will reduce potential noise and vibration impact on marine mammals, and a wide range of energy efficient equipment and systems will optimize engine use.

To learn more about MSC Cruises’ newest ship, click here.


NEWEST OCEAN SHIP IN VIKING’S AWARD-WINNING FLEET NAMED BY THE COUNTESS OF CARNARVON OF HIGHCLERE CASTLE

The Norwegian-Flagged Viking Mars Named in Malta on Norway Day  

Los Angeles (May 17, 2022) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today named its newest identical ocean ship, the Viking Mars®, during a private ceremony in Valletta, Malta. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a naval tradition that dates back thousands of years. This week the new ship will begin her maiden season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Northern Europe, before repositioning at the end of the year for voyages around Australia and New Zealand.

“It is always a proud day when we welcome a new sister ship to our fleet. The Viking Mars will allow us to offer even more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Many of our guests were introduced to both Viking and Highclere Castle while watching Downton Abbey, and over the years we have continued a close friendship with the Carnarvon family as they have welcomed our guests into their home. We are very grateful that Lady Carnarvon has honored us by serving as godmother of our newest ocean ship.”

“I am honored and privileged to be the godmother of the Viking Mars. I have no doubt she will delight the many guests who travel with her around the world. For more than a decade, Viking and Highclere have been linked through both Downton Abbey and life, and we look forward to continuing welcoming the extended Viking family to explore our home for years to come,” said Lady Carnarvon.  

A small naming ceremony of the Viking Mars took place today while the ship was docked in Valletta’s Grand Harbour and was attended by friends and business partners of Viking, including Maltese officials. Lady Carnarvon offered her blessing for the ship via video from Highclere Castle, and a bottle of Norwegian aquavit was smashed on the ship’s hull. As all Viking ocean ships are registered in Bergen, Norway, the event paid tribute to Norwegian Constitution Day—May 17—and featured a performance by Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø, who is widely considered one of the world’s top crossover sopranos and is also the godmother of the Viking Jupiter®. Valletta is significant as the location for the ship’s naming, as Malta was one of the first countries to welcome Viking ships when the company restarted operations in 2021.

In lieu of a large-scale event, Viking and Lady Carnarvon jointly decided to celebrate the naming of the Viking Mars and Viking’s 25th anniversary in a private and more meaningful way— donating GBP10,000 each to 25 worthy charities covering a spectrum of causes that are important to both Viking and the Carnarvon family.

Lady Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon and Godmother of the Viking Mars

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 and the historic estate best known as the filming location of Downton Abbey. Viking became a household name during its sponsorship of the celebrated MASTERPIECE series 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

Delivered last week at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Anconca, Italy, the Viking Mars is the newest vessel to join Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships, which also includes the Viking Star®, the Viking Sea®, the Viking Sky®, the Viking Orion®, the Viking Jupiter® and the Viking Venus®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, airy public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.


My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

Cunard Reports Busiest Booking Day in a Decade

The first day of sales shows the incredible strength of demand for our new ship and the Cunard brand is at record levels

Maiden season on new ship Queen Anne shows demand for Cunard at record levels

VALENCIA, Calif., May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury cruise line Cunard has reported that the first day of bookings for new ship Queen Anne proves the busiest booking day in a decade.

The maiden voyage, a seven-night sailing from Southampton departing January 4, 2024, has sold out and demand for Princess & Queens Grill Suites proved especially strong across each of the 10 published new voyages.

 "Since we began to unveil details of our fourth ship, the reaction to Queen Anne from guests and travel advisors alike has been phenomenal," said Matt Gleaves, VP, Commercial, North America and Australasia, Cunard.  "The first day of sales shows the incredible strength of demand for our new ship and the Cunard brand is at record levels."

The three busiest booking periods for Cunard in the last decade have now happened since March 2021, with the launch of the UK sailings as the brand returned to service, the launch of the summer 2023 program and now the launch of Queen Anne's maiden program.

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


Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

Windstar Cruises Cancels Asia and Adds Tahiti Sailings

Small Ship Line Cites Uncertainty Re: Ports Reopening in the Region 

MIAMI, FL, May 17, 2022 – Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has cancelled its scheduled cruises in Asia for fall of 2022, citing the continued uncertainty regarding ports reopening in the region. 

The move will affect seven scheduled itineraries on the all-suite Star Breeze, including a crossing of the Pacific from Alaska to Japan, two Grand Japan sailings, Island Hopping through Japan, Windstar Crew Hometowns: Philippines and Indonesia, Hidden Indonesia & the Great Barrier Reef, and Edge of the Outback

Instead, Star Breeze will extend its Alaska season with an additional itinerary (Alaskan Splendors) in late August, followed by West Coast Epicurean Extravaganza down the coast of the U.S., a trans- ocean voyage from San Diego to Tahiti, and five sailings in French Polynesia.  

During October 2022, Windstar will celebrate its 35th anniversary of operating cruises in Tahiti – one of the first lines to offer overnight cruises in the region. All sailings aboard Wind Spirit and Star Breeze in Tahiti will join in the celebration with special events planned during the cruise. 

On November 11 Star Breeze departs for a trans-ocean journey to Sydney, arriving on November 22 for a scheduled charter cruise. The shift will make the December 4 Tasman Sea Treasures: New Zealand Fjords & South Australia Windstar’s first commercial cruise offered in the region. 2022 marks Windstar’s first time offering comprehensive itineraries to New Zealand and Australia, visiting small, rarely visited ports of call like Middle Percy Island. 

“As Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines and South Korea are all currently still closed to cruising, Windstar joins several other cruise lines in making this decision to cancel cruises in Asia for fall,” says Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog. “We hope our guests rebook on these same fantastic itineraries for next year.” 

For more information on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com.


My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

LOVE IS IN THE AIR…AND BACK AT SEA! CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE REOPENS WEDDING PROGRAM ACROSS FLEET

Reservations Open Today for Weddings and Vow Renewals Starting in September

MIAMI, May 16, 2022 – Love is in the air…and back at sea! Following the exciting news that its entire fleet is back in service, Carnival Cruise Line announced today that it is now taking reservations for weddings and vow renewals on sailings starting September 2022 and beyond.

“For decades, Carnival has been the leading wedding operator in the cruise industry, so we are very excited to restart our wedding program for our guests who have been longing to celebrate their nuptials on board our ships,” said Jeremy Schiller, vice president of operations for Carnival Cruise Line. “Creating special memories for our guests is what we do, it’s who we are, and the time to help them live out the weddings of their dreams is back!”

Carnival’s wedding and vow renewal offerings are expansive, giving guests the opportunity to make memories that last a lifetime with a ceremony as unique as the couple. With the help of Carnival’s dedicated team of trained wedding planners, guests can choose from ceremonies at sea aboard a Carnival ship; on embarkation day, allowing them to invite guests who are not sailing and can debark after the ceremony; and even at select port of call destinations. And, did someone say honeymoon? It doesn’t get easier than setting sail on an amazing honeymoon cruise right after the wedding! 

From the ceremony, music and décor to photography, cocktail receptions and more, the Weddings by Carnival team puts the fun back in the wedding planning process. Packages range from intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations with family and friends.

This September will be the first time Carnival is offering weddings and vow renewals since March 2020, before the line’s pause in guest operations. The wedding program is limited to ships sailing from the U.S. at this time. 

For more information about Carnival Cruise Line’s wedding and vow renewal offerings, call 1-800-933-4968, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST, or visit www.carnival.com/wedding-cruises.