CELEBRATING ALL THINGS TRAVEL, CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE REVEALS THE GATEWAY ON ITS NEWEST SHIP

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Zone to Feature Second Seagoing Restaurant  by World-Renowned Chef and Restaurateur Emeril Lagasse

 MIAMI, June 8, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line’s next ship, Carnival Celebration, will feature The Gateway, an entirely new area on two decks that celebrates travel and the excitement of exploring new destinations. The zone was revealed during a virtual press conference today hosted by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. 

With design and décor inspired by grand terminals, transportation stations and departure points around the world, the entertainment, dining and shopping zone will feature a promenade highlighted by 12 high-definition multimedia virtual windows displaying unique scenes. The 9.5’ by 5’ windows and the nearly 100’ LED ceiling will be complemented by show lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system to create a truly immersive experience throughout the zone.

By day, guests will be entertained with relaxing scenes like a sunny sky, but by night, the zone will take varying nightly themes, transporting guests to far-off places throughout the world. Some of the theme nights will include Abroad in Europe, Far East Voyage and Mexico Lindo.

“The Gateway was created to celebrate the enriching experience we all feel when traveling – not only because of the destinations we travel to, but also the world of cultures we get to explore,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We have millions of guests and team members who come from around the world to have fun together and create a welcoming and inclusive environment while sailing to new places – that is the beauty of traveling, especially on a Carnival ship, and that is what this zone will celebrate.” 

The zone’s offerings will support the night’s theme – from the music played, to the drinks and food served, and the entertainment activations offered. For example, on Mexico Lindo night, while the window displays and surrounding technology may take guests on a journey through ancient Mayan cities, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, or magical towns, guests will enjoy themed offerings like special margaritas, palomas and agave tastings, accompanied by a specialty food item tied to the evening’s theme. Or for Exploring South America night, as sunset views over the Amazon and Machu Picchu or a moon-lit Rio de Janeiro sweep the scenes, a fun Brazilian celebration will get everyone on their feet while they sip on a Caipirinha or a Chilcano and indulge in a themed bite.

“When designing this innovative and transformative environment, we wanted to make sure that there was something new and exciting to see and experience every time a guest walks through the zone between day and night, and from day to day,” said Ben Clement, senior vice president of new builds, refurbishment and product innovation. “We also wanted to ensure that the entire promenade in The Gateway was connected and that the upper level was engaged with what is happening below.”

The Gateway’s main promenade will be home to a new travel-inspired bar concept, Latitudes. Latitudes will be reminiscent of a classic airport or train station with travel-themed chairs, menus and a mechanical split-flap display board, a modern take on the classic “departures” board that is being custom built by Oat Foundry in Philadelphia. Uniquely designed to come to life periodically with motion and sounds, including the familiar clack clack sound that sparks memories of past travels, the board will change to display the bar’s daily menu offerings and will include messages to support the imagery on the surrounding virtual windows. Offerings will include cocktails, spirits and wines from destinations around the world as well as special tastings and samplers. 

Every evening, guests will enjoy a new Celebration Happy Hour event at Latitudes that will be hosted by the entertainment team and serve as an opportunity to celebrate special occasions and milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries and more. 

Bringing the best from Mardi Gras to Carnival Celebration, The Gateway will also include the second seagoing restaurant by world-renowned chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse, Emeril’s Bistro 1397, but this time, with a twist – and we’re not just talking about the new name of the venue to represent this ship’s hull number. The menu will not only feature guest-favorites from Mardi Gras but will also offer the best of international cuisines and flavors presented with a special Carnival flair for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant will boast seating along the promenade’s walkway as well as a dedicated and more intimate dining area with ocean views.

The Gateway will also feature a large digital map display showcasing the locations of Carnival’s ships around the world in real time. The zone will be home to the recently revealed bar and lounge, The Golden Jubilee, as well, which ties into the zone’s theme of travel, celebrating Carnival’s 50 years of fun and the line’s Fun Ships that have served as their own destinations and as a means to travel around the world for the past five decades. 

The ship’s main dining rooms adjacent to The Gateway will pay homage to Carnival’s history, with the forward Carnivale Restaurant, named after Carnival’s second ship, and the aft Festivale Restaurant, named after Carnival’s third ship.

Adjacent are also guest favorites including the cocktail pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Carnival Kitchen, and Limelight Lounge.

The Gateway is the final zone aboard Carnival Celebration, joining 820 Biscayne, Celebration Central, The Ultimate Playground, Summer Landing, and Lido zones.

Carnival Celebration will be the second Carnival ship to be powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising platform, and will include BOLT, the award-winning roller coaster at the top of the ship. Carnival Celebration will debut in November from the redesigned state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami, the line’s third terminal at the port and its largest in South Florida. The terminal will be among the first to be shore-power ready in 2023. 

Additional details on Carnival Celebration will be revealed in the coming months leading up to the ship’s inaugural sailing from Miami on Nov. 21.

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.

SILVERSEA® UNVEILS EIGHT ENHANCED RESTAURANTS FOR NEW SHIP SILVER NOVA℠

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(Monaco -- June 7, 2022) Silversea Cruises® has unveiled eight signature restaurants for its new ship Silver Nova—offering guests unparalleled variety. From spacious, open-seated venues to more intimate dining options, Silver Nova’s diverse range of restaurants will serve a selection of cuisines throughout the day, from international to speciality fare. Diners will benefit from a greater sense of space and stronger connections with the destination, as each restaurant will incorporate all-new design features, facilitated by Silver Nova’s innovative asymmetrical design—a first for the leading ultra-luxury cruise line. Silver Nova is scheduled to launch in 2023 as the first cruise ship to be free of local emissions while at port, paving the way for the future of luxurious, sustainable cruise travel.

“Characteristic of Silver Nova, which will push boundaries in cruising, the dining experience aboard our newest ship will represent the latest iteration of Silversea’s unique take on luxury,” said Barbara Muckermann, Chief Commercial Officer, Silversea Cruises. “From S.A.L.T.® Kitchen—the first large-scale regional restaurant at sea—to The Marquee on deck 10, each of Silver Nova’s restaurants will benefit from innovative design solutions that will bring the destination into view like never before. Food and drink has long been core to the cruise experience for our guests; with Silver Nova, we are enriching Silversea’s trademark dining experiences—which are among the finest at sea.”

With both formal and informal options, decks three, four, and five will accommodate Silver Nova’s indoor restaurants, while The Marquee on deck 10 will house her two outdoor dining options, Spaccanapoli and The Grill. Silver Nova’s eight restaurants will include:  

LA TERRAZZA – capacity: 340

The largest of Silver Nova’s restaurants with a capacity of 340, the 359m2 La Terrazza will comprise both indoor and outdoor spaces on deck four, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with open seating. Reimagined with a brand new aesthetic that incorporates a vibrant color palette, La Terrazza will offer one of the most immersive destination experiences aboard Silver Nova, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing views to the horizon and an expansive terrace for up to 90 diners. The venue will feature a large buffet area during the day, while decorative, fluted glass screens will enclose the space during dinner. Silver Nova’s asymmetrical design has enabled the creation of a new shape for La Terrazza: the venue will have a curved layout on the port side, while running to the ship’s aft on the starboard side. 

ATLANTIDE – capacity: 270

At 546m2, Atlantide will be the most spacious of Silver Nova’s restaurants, accommodating 270 guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on deck three. A new layout and an enriched design will enhance guests’ dining experience, yet the restaurant’s iconic warm tones will maintain its signature aesthetic. Modern architectural details and materials will elevate the space’s luxuriousness, with fluted glass, metal trim, and natural stone flooring accentuating the design. Atlantide’s sophisticated lighting will include an elegant chandelier.

S.A.L.T. KITCHEN – capacity: 160

When S.A.L.T. Kitchen launched aboard Silver MoonSM, it became the first large-scale regional restaurant at sea. Aboard Silver Nova, the innovative venue will take on a new look and feel on deck three, with a capacity of 160 and a floor-space of 315m2, accommodating larger groups for a more social experience. High ceilings and vast windows will create a sense of openness, bringing the destination into view with ample natural light. Artworks that reflect the world’s richest culinary traditions will adorn the venue’s interiors. True to its concept, S.A.L.T. Kitchen will offer a menu inspired by each destination, from the Terrain menu, which adapts according to the port of call, to the Voyage menu, which comprises the best recipes of each voyage.   

LA DAME® – capacity: 70

The 191m2 La Dame—Silversea’s signature French restaurant—will host 70 guests in an elegant, formal setting on deck four. Structural design details will enhance the guest experience, from the open entranceway to the high ceilings and sizeable windows, which will offer sweeping views on the destination from every seat in the restaurant. Creative ceiling lighting will emphasize La Dame’s contrasting color palette of bright and dark tones, while hand-made Lalique crystal panels—including the bespoke Masque de Femme design—and a Hirondelles crystal chandelier will greet guests upon arrival.

SILVER NOTE® – capacity: 54

Inspired by jazz clubs of the 1920s, the 141m2 Silver Note will welcome up to 54 guests for dinner each night, with the venue benefitting from a new design and layout. Perfect for an atmospheric meal or a post-dinner cocktail, the intimate setting on deck five will employ a dark color palette with gold metal and velvet accents. Feature lighting installations on the ceiling and a wrap-around wall will place focus on a central stage, which will host a piano for live musical performances. Silver Note’s elegant bar will also be enhanced aboard Silver Nova, with a fresh design and plenty of seating for guests.

KAISEKI® – capacity: 40

Broadening Silver Nova’s offering of international fare, the 86m2 Kaiseki will serve the finest Asian cuisine in a minimalist, Japanese-inspired setting on deck four, accommodating 40 guests in a tranquil environment. A new set of modern design features will enrich the space, from the restaurant’s entrance, which will act as a symbolic gateway to Japan, to its decoration, which will incorporate authentic washi paper, marble, and traditional wooden materials. Elegant lighting will create a cozy, inviting atmosphere for optimum intimacy. Primarily serving Japanese fare, Kaiseki will also offer guests the chance to sample fine Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, Korean, and Chinese cuisine from an a-la-carte menu.

THE MARQUEE (THE GRILL & SPACCANAPOLI) – capacity: 220

Silver Nova’s asymmetrical design has enabled the introduction of The Marquee on deck 10—a new food and drinks venue with far-reaching views, occupying 477m2 towards the ship’s aft, on the port side. The al fresco dining venue will welcome up to 220 guests, incorporating The Grill and Spaccanapoli—two of Silversea’s signature venues, which offer guests the cruise line’s trademark ‘hot rocks’ culinary concept and arguably the best pizza at sea, respectively. Due to its proximity to the swimming pool, The Marquee will welcome guests in a relaxed atmosphere, serving casual fare by day and offering dinner under the stars by night.

In addition to eight restaurants, Silver Nova will host up to 70 guests in the vibrant Arts Café—a welcoming space in which to enjoy snacks and refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere. Relocated to the center of the ship, the 106m2 Arts Café will benefit from ample natural light thanks to a double-height, glazed atrium.

As is customary on Silversea’s ships, travelers will also enjoy complimentary in-suite dining around the clock—enhanced by the Otium® dining menu, which will include snacks made from the most luxurious ingredients, from lobster and caviar in brioche rolls to a range of gourmet popcorn.

Silver Nova will be one of the most spacious cruise ships ever built, with a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-passenger—the highest in Silversea’s fleet. She will offer one of the most personalized services at sea with a 1:1.3 crew-to-guest ratio, as well as butler services for all suites. The ship will have a capacity of 728 and a gross tonnage of 54,700 tons. With her hybrid power sources, Silver Nova is expected to achieve a cruise industry-first: local emission-free operation in port by using fuel cells and batteries.  

Read an article on Silver Nova’s restaurants:

https://discover.silversea.com/ships/silver-nova/silver-nova-restaurants/

Find out more information on Silver Nova:
https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-nova.html

Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

American Queen Voyages™ Launches New Website and Flexible Booking Program for 2022 Sailings

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FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – June 6, 2022 – American Queen Voyages™, part of the Hornblower® Group, has unveiled a new website www.aqvoyages.com for consumers and travel advisors to create, plan and book an extraordinary experience exploring North America.  Bringing together the cruise line’s Rivers, Lakes & Oceans and Expedition products under one digital umbrella for the first time, the new American Queen Voyages website design delivers an inspiring and functional experience across all platforms. The compelling layout embraces the tagline “Discovery Runs Deep™,” and emphasizes the beauty of comprehensively exploring North America. 

On the new website, travelers can filter their searches to hone in on desired dates, ships, types and destinations under the Voyage feature. Now, the site incorporates the ability to buy a voyage online, another first in the company’s history. Guests are able to secure their cruise directly in the booking engine, including the specific stateroom through an interactive deck plan, which allows passengers to explore what the vessel offers on each deck and in each cabin.

“American Queen Voyages has transformed from the great American rivers to include lakes, oceans and expedition experiences over the last 10 years, and the reimagined website is a critical tool to tell the next chapter in our story,” shares Isis Ruiz, chief commercial officer, American Queen Voyages. “Evolving the way we present the brand digitally is a key pillar of our go-to-market strategy.  The new American Queen Voyages website design now delivers an inspiring and functional experience across all platforms that focuses on meeting our customers where they are, leaning into our brand positioning and enhancing our guest experience to reach and surpass expectations.”

For those new to the vast North American experiences available from the cruise line, detailed descriptions of regions, iconic cities and quaint ports, are featured in a comprehensive cruise calendar complemented by stunning photography. Additional sections including the new loyalty program, American Queen Voyages blog and more will grow with content in the coming weeks. There is also the ability to select a pre-or post-cruise City Stay Package such as a tour of Montana’s Glacier National Park from the American Empress or the Ultimate New Orleans Experience before embarking on the American Queen, American Duchess or American Countess. 

American Queen Voyages collaborated with MRM/McCann on the overarching brand creation and the internal marketing team supported by Hornblower Group developed a digital guest experience that captures the onboard guest experience. 

New Flexibility on 2022 sailings

In addition to unveiling the new www.aqvoyages.com,  American Queen Voyages is offering a new Risk-Free Booking program to give guests added flexibility for 2022 bookings made by June 30, 2022. Guests booking a sailing departing by December 31, 2022, have the flexibility to move to another 2023 voyage penalty free up to 14 days prior to departure.  

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 DEPLOYS MENU MATE FOOD INGREDIENT PROGRAM FLEETWIDE

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Software Helps Guide Guests with Food Allergies

 MIAMI, May 26, 2022 – Extensive dining options help feed the fun at Carnival Cruise Line, and as anyone with food allergies knows, having a variety of healthy choices is more than just enjoyable – but also important to safety. That’s whyCarnival is now introducing the Menu Mate™ food ingredient program fleetwide to accommodate guests with special diets more efficiently than ever.

“Making sure everyone is included in the fun and has the best experience possible is extremely important to us,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are always looking for new ways to help our crew enhance our guests’ experiences, and that’s exactly what this new program is doing on our ships for those with food allergies.”

Easily operated on touch-screen tablets at food venues across the Carnival fleet, the Menu Mate food ingredient program is powered by award-winning CertiStar software to mitigate the risks of allergic reactions. The new program is the first of its kind among major cruise lines.

            "I'm a lifelong cruiser, with my first time on a Carnival cruise as a teenager, so I know firsthand how important it is to make the most of every moment with family and friends. As someone with food allergies, I don't want to waste time deliberating over what I can eat, so I'm especially excited to help share this effort with my fellow cruise lovers," said Shandee Chernow, CEO and founder of CertiStar.

The new Menu Mate food ingredient program works simply for both guests and crew. Staff will ask guests about food allergies and enter any restrictions into the program. The software will then sort through all available options and display which items are allergen friendly, which options can be modified to exclude allergens and which selections should be avoided. If preferred, guests can also use the Menu Mate designated tablet themselves to enter in their own allergy/dietary information and then order from the options curated to meet their needs.

The program eliminates the lengthy process of conferring between guests, wait staff and chefs over the ingredients of menu items and possible substitutions. Now that the process of selecting items with allergen friendly ingredients is simplified, it is also no longer necessary for guests to inform Carnival of food allergies in advance of their cruise. To hear about one guest’s recent experience ordering onboard meals with the help of a Menu Mate tablet, click here.

            To ensure the program’s efficiency, Carnival culinary staff studied recipes across the line and worked to capture any potential allergen conflicts by inputting accurate ingredient information into the CertiStar software. To use the program directly and research allergen friendly options on their own, guests will be able to find a Menu Mate tablet on display near the Lido buffet stations as well.

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

ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES OPENS 2023-24 ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION SEASON FOR SALE

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World Navigator and World Traveller Continue to Deliver Once-in-a-lifetime, Luxe-adventure Expeditions to Seventh Continent

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., June 2, 2022 – Atlas Ocean Voyages opened its winter 2023-24 Antarctica season for sale today, offering experienced travelers more once-in-a-lifetime expeditions to this remote and bucket-list destination for a third season. From November 2023 through March 2024, small luxury expedition ships World Navigator and World Traveller will return to the Seventh Continent to deliver breathtaking landscapes, penguins, seals, whales, seabirds, and other wildlife that can only be witnessed there. Travelers can choose among 23 voyages, ranging from nine to 20 nights, nearly all departing round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina. World Navigatorwill offer Antarctic Peninsula voyages while World Travellerembarks on more comprehensive Antarctic regional expeditions. For more information about Atlas Ocean Voyages’ new winter 2023-24 season, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

“World Navigator and World Traveller offer the perfect combination of adventure and luxury on an Antarctica expedition,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Atlas focuses on boots-on-the-ground and feet-in-the-water expeditions that travelers may have waited a lifetime to experience. With Atlas, travelers can start at the top of their bucket list for an immersive and transformative expedition to Antarctica.”

On World Navigator and World Traveller’s Antarctica expeditions, guests can expect up to two outings from the ship daily, depending on weather and sea conditions. The ships’ Captains monitor onboard weather and underwater sensors and meteorological forecasts to plan for safe passage and harbors for guests to go ashore or enjoy waterborne safaris aboard zodiacs to sight marine wildlife and iceberg formations, as well as opted for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Qualified expedition team members escort guests for all off-ship experiences and each member of the expedition team represents an academic specialty, such as ornithology, marine biology, history, environmental sciences, mountaineering and others, and offer guests greater depth and breadth to their expedition. At times, weather and sea conditions can change rapidly and the Captain may change course or landing sites to avoid risk to guests and the ship.

World Navigator will offer 13 Antarctica departures beginning on November 9, 2023. Travelers can choose from nine- and 11-night itineraries that focus on the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Guests will enjoy four days exploring Antarctica on the nine-night voyages while the 11-night voyages offer six days cruising the region and cross into the Antarctic Circle to earn membership in the Order of the Blue Nose. Both itineraries also include a scenic cruise by Cape Horn, Chile, the southernmost point of South America.

At the end of the season, World Navigator will embark on March 15, 2024, for a special 14-night itinerary that combines the Falkland Islands and the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. There, guests will have opportunities to catch sightings of the thriving marine wildlife that have grown accustomed to warmer climes, including the King Penguin. The itinerary also calls at Punta del Este and Montevideo, Uruguay, and concludes with an overnight in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

For her part, World Traveller brings the explorers on 13-, 16- and 20-night immersive expeditions that offer a combination of the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, Diego Ramirez Islands, Falkland Islands, and South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. Nearly all World Travellerexpeditions in Antarctica include a passage through the Lemaire Channel, considered one of the most dramatic Antarctic landscapes ever traveled and venture across the Antarctica Circle.

World Traveller also offers two unique trans-Atlantic crossings to bookend her Antarctica season. The 12-night, westbound itinerary departs October 24, 2023, from the Canary Islands, Spain, to Recife, Brazil, via Western Africa, with calls at Dakhla, Western Sahara; Dakar, Senegal; and Banjul, the Gambia. To conclude her season, World Traveller departs on March 13, 2024, from Ushuaia to Cape Town, South Africa on a 19-night voyage. Guests enjoy two days in the Falkland Islands, three days in the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands, and three days in Tristan da Cunha, the world’s most remote inhabited archipelago located deep in the Southern Atlantic.

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. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurerand 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.

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

CELEBRITY CRUISES LAUNCHES NEW CURATED EXCURSIONS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY BY ITS CAPTAINS 

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Guests Can Experience Ports of Call in the Greek Isles Through the Eyes of the Line’s Lead Mariners 

Celebrity Cruises’ Captains are sharing their favorite Greek experiences through a new “Captain-Curated” shore excursions program. Offered aboard any Celebrity ship sailing the Greek Isles during summer 2022.

Miami (May 26, 2022) – Celebrity Cruises’ Captains are sharing their favorite Greek experiences through a new “Captain-Curated” shore excursions program. Offered aboard any Celebrity ship sailing the Greek Isles during summer 2022, the all-new collection of unique and exclusive excursions are designed to ensure guests “Journey WonderFULL” and experience the destination “like a local.”  

Whether it’s visiting a family-owned olive mill, discovering culinary hidden gems including the best spot for kebabs, or taking in the best panoramic vistas, guests will enjoy these unforgettable experiences in an intimate, limited capacity experience.  

“What a dream come true for our guests to experience one of the world’s most breathtaking regions through the people who know it best - our Captains, who either grew up in Greece or have spent their career sailing to and visiting its ports,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Cruises has a proud Greek heritage and Greece holds a special place in our hearts that we are now uniquely sharing with our guests.”  

Celebrity Cruises was founded in 1988 by the Chandris family of Greece, later becoming a part of the Royal Caribbean Group. Celebrity Cruises is still rooted in its Greek origins today, with 70% of marine officers across the fleet hailing from Greece, including more than 40 Captains and Chief Engineers. 

In addition to visiting the history of Rhodes and Thessaloniki, the distilleries and wineries of Nafplio and Corfu, or the picturesque seaside town of Chania (Crete), the all-new Captain-Curated Shore Excursions combine an iconic destination experience with a hidden gem to create the Captain’s ideal day in port and include visiting:

  • Katakolon (Olympia) – Guests will take in the ancient history at Olympia before enjoying its local delicacies at a family-owned olive mill. Guests will learn first-hand about the groves, the different oils, and make their own Greek salad with freshly cut ingredients, tzatziki, and try their hand at wrapping their own pita souvlaki.

  • Athens – Guests will journey back in time to ancient Greece at the iconic Acropolis before visiting another Athens must-see, Bairaktaris Tavern, for a special kebab lunch.

  • Mykonos – Indulging in the flavors of this jet-setter paradise, guests will explore the charming, narrow streets and alleys, stopping at five different venues to sample the hidden culinary secrets within. 

  • Santorini - Guests will enjoy Oia's iconic, whitewashed cycladic cave houses, blue domes, and magnificent seaside views, as well as a Greek lunch with panoramic vistas at a Captain’s favorite spot in the beautiful capital village of Fira.  

On sale today, guests can learn more and book a Captain-Curated Shore Excursion by visiting https://www.celebritycruises.com/shore-excursions/captain-curated-tours. 

For more information on all Celebrity Cruises award-winning Mediterranean and Greek island itineraries, visit http://www.celebritycruises.com/destinations/mediterranean-cruises/greek-island-cruise. For all Celebrity Cruises 2022-2023 sailings, go to https://www.celebritycruises.com/2022-2023-cruises.

My review of Celebrity Apex

VIKING CELEBRATES START OF INAUGURAL SEASON IN NORTH AMERICA’S GREAT LAKES

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The 378-Guest Viking Octantis Becomes the Most Modern Vessel to Sail in the Region 

Los Angeles (May 26, 2022) – Viking® (www.viking.com) continues to mark new milestones for its expedition voyages, as the new purpose-built Viking Octantis® kicks off its inaugural season in the Great Lakes. Designed specifically to reach the Great Lakes region, the Viking Octantis recently completed a roundtrip through the Welland Canal—a key section of the St. Lawrence Seaway connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie—making it the largest passenger vessel ever to transit the canal. The ship will remain in the Great Lakes until early October 2022, sailing a variety of itineraries between Toronto and Duluth. A second expedition vessel, the Viking Polaris®, will debut later this year and will join the Viking Octantis in the Great Lakes for the 2023 season. 

“Our expedition ships were designed with the Great Lakes in mind. This region has been historically underserved by cruise lines, and we are delighted by the warm and enthusiastic reception we have received from the local communities,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “With our first season now underway, we are pleased with the strong demand among our guests and look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to these fantastic destinations in 2023.”

Viking’s arrival to the Great Lakes brings the newest and most modern vessels ever to explore this region of North America, as well as a significant commitment to local tourism and economic development for the states of Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Ohio (beginning in 2023) and the Canadian province of Ontario. 

To help develop the scientific enrichment program for its Great Lakes voyages, Viking has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), which conducts innovative research on the dynamic environments and ecosystems of the Great Lakes and coastal regions to provide information for resource use and management decisions that lead to safe and sustainable ecosystems, ecosystem services, and human communities. Viking’s expedition ships have also been designated official NOAA / U.S. National Weather Service weather balloon stations, from which regular launches are undertaken.

2022—2023 Great Lakes Voyages:

During Viking’s inaugural 2022 season, the company is operating four new itineraries in the Great Lakes. Highlights include:

  • Undiscovered Great Lakes (8 days; Thunder Bay to Milwaukee) – Cross the width of Lake Superior between Duluth and the Soo Locks, exploring the Apostle Islands and Keweenaw Peninsula along the way. Hike along clifftop trails for sweeping views of the lake. Gain insight into the unique features and ecosystems of remote wilderness islands, and admire Kakabeka Falls, the “Niagara of the North.” Discover sea caves by kayak and step back in time as you stroll the quaint, car-free streets of Mackinac Island.

  • Great Lakes Explorer (8 days; Milwaukee to Thunder Bay) – Discover the maze of granite islands that comprise Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve while hiking and kayaking through its tranquil beauty and admiring sweeping vistas. Experience Victorian charm on Mackinac Island and venture into the boreal forests of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Explore coastal wetlands replete with birdlife, comb pristine beaches and get acquainted with native cultures of the northern Great Lakes.

  • Niagara & The Great Lakes (8 days; Toronto to Milwaukee) – From urban skylines to uninhabited islands, discover North America’s wilderness alongside renowned cultural attractions while cruising the striking waterways of the Great Lakes. Immerse yourself in the lakes’ compelling shipping history, experience the power of thundering Niagara Falls and keep watch for scores of migratory birds at Point Pelee. Led by a team of experts, explore sheltered bays and woodlands to uncover complex ecosystems and hidden treasures.

  • Canadian Discovery (13 days; New York to Toronto) – Unleash your inner explorer in the remote wilds of eastern Canada. Discover this region’s rich colonial past amid stunning natural settings. Admire the unparalleled beauty of the rugged coast of the Canadian Maritimes. Cruise along the wide expanse of the St. Lawrence River and marvel at the dramatic cliffs and wildlife of the Saguenay River Valley. Engaging shore excursions in each port allow you to better enjoy all this region has to offer.

In 2023, Viking will add a new, 15-day voyage:  

  • Great Lakes Collection (15 days; Toronto to Duluth) – Join Viking for a unique expedition across the historic waterways of all five of the majestic Great Lakes. Experience culture-rich urban centers and admire the awesome power of thundering Niagara Falls. Explore the granite islands and sheltered inlets of Georgian Bay and traverse the famous Soo Locks. Study the aquatic ecosystems of the lakes and venture into the dense boreal forests that line the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.

Viking Expedition Ships

The new Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. The vessels are purpose-built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations. With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth. Highlights include: 

  • The Aula: A stunning panoramic auditorium inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall, the former venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Used for lectures, daily briefings, documentaries and films, this spectacular venue features a 4k laser-projected screen that retracts to expose floor-to-ceiling windows and 270° views.

  • Finse Terrace: An outdoor lounge area just above sea level with recessed, heated seating and lava rock “firepits,” the Finse Terrace was designed to allow guests the comforts of the ship al fresco while enjoying the dramatic scenery. Named after the Finse Plateau in Norway, where some of the greatest polar explorers, including Nansen and Amundsen, did their expedition training in preparation for their North and South Pole expeditions.

  • The Hangar: A state-of-the-art, industry-first in-ship marina providing ease of embarkation and disembarkation of Special Operations Boats and other equipment while sheltered from the elements.

  • The Bow: An important forward-viewing platform. And in the case of inclement weather, The Shelter is a comfortable, partially enclosed space for guests to warm up with a hot drink before going back out into the elements.

  • The Science Lab: Developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Akvaplan-Niva, The Science Lab, at 380 sq. ft., is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities. Guests have supervised access to The Science Lab to learn from and participate with scientists in undertaking meaningful research.

  • Expedition Central: The hub for the expedition team to consult with guests on their expedition activities and share knowledge about the destinations on a one-on-one basis, with the aid of 3D printed maps, digital screens, and a state-of-the-art spatial data visualization chart table.

  • Dining Choices: The Restaurant offers fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Café offers an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen’s, named for the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; and Manfredi’s offers the best of Italian cuisine.

  • The Nordic Spa: Following a day of exploration, The Nordic Spa offers guests opportunities to experience the ultimate healthy Nordic traditions, with an indoor heated pool set against expansive windows and a badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) that is open to the outside.

  • Explorers’ Lounge: Located high on the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows, the Explorers’ Lounge provides guests an ideal space to take in the magnificent scenery, share discoveries with fellow travelers or to enjoy a drink.

  • The Living Room: On Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, The Living Room is located to maximize views of the surroundings through floor-to-ceiling windows and a library that informs even the best-read explorers. The Library is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as on all Viking vessels, as well as Cambridge University’s Scott Polar Research Institute.

  • Nordic Balcony: A first for polar expedition vessels, all staterooms on board Viking’s expedition ships feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft. to 1,223 sq. ft.—all with a Nordic Balcony, as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. Every stateroom is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.

  • Expedition Ship Suites: Nordic Junior Suites (322 sq. ft.) and Explorer Suites (580 sq. ft.) on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are similar to those on Viking’s fleet of ocean ships, with wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome champagne, a fully-stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry, priority restaurant reservations and more. Explorer Suites feature two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner’s Suite (1,223 sq. ft.) that has three rooms –a living room, a board/dining room and a bedroom—as well as a 792 sq. ft. private deck with a traditional Norwegian badestamp open to the invigorating outdoors.

  • Enrichment On Board and On Shore: Viking has created the world’s leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting. Exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)—as well as other prestigious scientific institutions match leading researchers and educators with each expedition. Thirty-six experts accompany each journey as part of the Viking Expedition Team, including an Expedition Leader and support staff, photographer, field research scientists, general naturalists, mountain guides, kayak guides, submarine pilots and specialists (ornithology, geology, higher predator biology and history). On board, guests will enjoy daily briefings and world-class lectures about their destination. On shore, they can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities during landings—such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns; accompanying scientists to collect samples; or taking their cameras ashore alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes.

  • Environmentally Considerate: Viking’s expedition ships have set a new standard for responsible travel with an energy-efficient design that exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements by nearly 38%. In addition to an integrated bow that creates a longer waterline for the ships, engines with heat recovery systems and Azipod® Electric Propulsion, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris have received one of the industry’s first SILENT-E notations—the highest-level certification for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

Booking Details

                From now through May 31, 2022, Viking is special fares and reduced airfare on Great Lakes voyages. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent for details. 

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion

Azamara’s Entire Fleet of Four Ships Returns to Service 

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With Azamara Journey returning to sail today, the fleet’s four ships are all sailing the high seas 

MIAMI – May 26, 2022 – Azamara, the upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, is excited to announce that its entire fleet of four ships has officially returned to the high seas. The full fleet is welcoming guests onboard with country intensive itineraries, immersive land programs, and more overnights in each port, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in each destination. 

“I am beyond thankful to our hard-working team and dedicated crew members for all the incredible work and effort that has brought us to this exciting moment,” says Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. “Thanks to them,  our four-ship fleet are all sailing for the first time ever, allowing us even more opportunities to immerse our guests in the smaller ports and hidden gem destinations of the world.”  

As its fleet returns to service, Azamara continues to reinforce its commitment to Destination Immersion® experiences – the independent cruise line will visit 362 unique ports around the world, with 392 overnight stays, 862 late nights, and over 3,000 shore excursions, nearly 1,000 of which have been created since the pandemic began. Onboard restaurants, including Discoveries and Windows Café, have redesigned each menu to feature World Cuisine Selection dishes, highlighting a variety of countries visited by Azamara ships. Guests sailing on Azamara Onward can experience the new and exclusive specialty venue, Atlas Bar, offering innovative artisanal cocktails including the Grand Bazaar, London Fog Martini, and the Tuscany Delight.  

Azamara’s newest ship, Azamara Onward, celebrated its launch with an exciting naming ceremony and traditional christening in Monte Carlo on May 2. Following the ceremony, Azamara Onward embarked on an 11-Night Maiden Voyage throughout the Mediterranean, departing from Monte Carlo and concluding with an overnight stay in Ravenna, Italy. Azamara Onward is currently in the midst of a 7-Night Greece Intensive Voyage. Azamara Journey returns to service today embarking on a 10-Night Greece Intensive Voyage, while Azamara Pursuit sets sail today for a 5-Night Grand Prix Weekend Voyage, and Azamara Quest embarks on a 9-Night Spring Med & Grand Prix Voyage.  

Azamara’s four ships will sail Europe this summer, before heading to Asia, Australia, South America, and more global destinations. Voyage highlights include:  

  • 10-Night Greece Intensive Voyage aboard Azamara Journey 

    • Azamara Journey returns to service with a 10-Night Greece Intensive Voyage, a country Azamara knows best as its small ships have access to 22 more ports than any other cruise line. This sailing begins and ends in Athens, Europe’s oldest city, and includes five late stays in port, giving travelers ample time to partake in Mykonos’ buzzing nightlife or enjoy a stunning sunset view from 900 feet above sea level in Santorini’s capital, Fira. Travelers will also have the opportunity to travel inland on a shore excursion to the Meteora Monastery in Volos, built hundreds of feet in the air on soaring sandstone rock faces, or relax on the sands of picture-perfect beaches in Kavala.   

    • This 8-night sailing aboard Azamara’s newest ship brings guests to some of the Mediterranean’s most beloved islands, in addition to a few off the beaten path. The unique port of Olbia is a gateway to Italy’s “Emerald Coast,” offering beautiful beaches and hip restaurants. In the Spanish Isles, two late stays allow guests to discover Mahon, perched high atop a cliff with an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, and Palma de Mallorca, home to the world’s largest underground lake. This voyage also offers a golf program by Azamara’s longtime partner, PerryGolf. 

  • 16-Night Portuguese Pursuit Voyage aboard Azamara Pursuit 

    • This 16-night voyage aboard Azamara Pursuit takes guests from one of the world’s oldest cities, Lisbon, to Rio De Janeiro, home tothe iconic Christ the Redeemer, including stops in Mindelo, Cape Verde and Salvador De Bahia, Brazil. Two back-to-back late stays in the Canary Islands allow travelers to soak up all the beauty of La Palma and partake in all the festivities on Tenerife. On a shore excursion in Madeira, adventurers can climb into a 4x4 to discover natural wonders of the island that most visitors never see. 

  • 14-Night India & Sri Lanka Voyage aboard Azamara Quest 

    • Azamara Quest sails the Indian Ocean on this 14-night journey, beginning in Dubai, where travelers can peruse merchant stalls in the Dubai Gold Souk and go skiing in the desert at Ski Dubai. This voyage includes a late night in Cochin, India, the former center of the Indian spice trade, and an overnight in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where travelers can find world-famous tea, sacred temples, and a famous elephant orphanage. The sailing concludes in the food capital of the world, Singapore, with to option to add on a unique-to-Azamara post-voyage program offering the opportunity to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Borneo, the third largest island in the world.  

To book a sailing aboard any one of Azamara’s ships, please visit: www.azamara.com 

My review of Celebrity Apex

MSC WORLD EUROPA TO FEATURE AN ENHANCED AND FUTURISTIC MSC YACHT CLUB

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Guests have plenty of space to enjoy the ultimate sea views from outdoor seating areas

  • MSC World Europa to feature enlarged and most luxurious Yacht Club to date with futuristic design and enhanced public spaces

  • Ship to offer brand-new ultra-spacious ‘Owners Suites’ – not seen anywhere else in the MSC Cruises fleet

  • More than 18,000 square feet of private outdoor space with an extensive two-story sun deck

Geneva, Switzerland – May 25, 2022 – An enhanced MSC Yacht Club will be among the new features on board the highly anticipated MSC World Europa when the ship debuts later this year as the first of MSC Cruises’ trailblazing ‘World Class’ ships. The all-new World Class platform boasts future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies as well as a ground-breaking and ultramodern design.

The MSC Yacht Club’s innovative “ship within a ship” concept was first introduced in 2008, offering an all-inclusive cruise experience that set a new standard for premium cruising. It offers guests privacy and exclusivity, while still allowing them to enjoy all the facilities a larger ship can offer. MSC Cruises seeks to enrich and enhance that experience with every new ship, meaning MSC Yacht Club guests on MSC World Europa will find unparalleled levels of comfort, along with more public space, expanded outdoor areas, stylish new suites and a futuristic design.

Key Highlights of the MSC Yacht Club on MSC World Europa include:

A totally reimagined sundeck – Guests will have plenty of space spread across two decks to enjoy spectacular sea views from the front of the ship. The lower deck allows them to unwind and sip a glass of champagne from the bar or enjoy a bite to eat from the grill, while the upper deck is home to a private pool and whirlpool where guests can take in the sun from comfortable loungers or one of the stylish private cabanas.

MSC Yacht Club guests will enjoy a private two-level sun deck

Two brand-new ultra-spacious Owner-Suites – Exclusive to World Class ships, these luxurious multi-room suites total more than 1,600 square feet between indoor areas and the private balcony. The plush accommodations consist of a double bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, a bathroom complete with full-sized imperial bathtub, and a separate living-dining area bathed in light from floor-to-ceiling windows. For the ultimate VIP experience, guests step onto their own spacious balcony with al fresco dining area and whirlpool.

Duplex Suites offer guests plenty of space to relax along with private balconies including a whirlpool and sunbathing area 2

Double-balcony Duplex Suites – Spanning two decks, the Duplex Suites offer a whole floor dedicated to luxurious relaxation with a dining area, lounge and guest bathroom. Heading upstairs, the main bedroom has its own bathroom complete with bathtub. These special duplex suites offer two private sundecks. The lower deck offers a private whirlpool bath, seating, and lounge area, while the upper deck provides sunbathing with comfortable loungers.

Dedicated massage rooms – Guests staying in the MSC Yacht Club will have access to exclusive massage rooms in the cutting-edge MSC Aurea Spa, as well as unlimited use of the thermal area to pamper the days away.

The stunning MSC Yacht Club lounge and restaurant offer a wide selection of premium dining and drink options

The MSC Yacht Club experience

Key-card access grants those staying in the MSC Yacht Club exclusive access to the private lounge, which serves unlimited complimentary drinks and gourmet canapés. Guests also enjoy access to the private fine-dining restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an à la carte menu with chef’s specials and a wide choice of gourmet dishes complemented by an extensive wine list.

These elegant spaces, designed with the future in mind, offer uninterrupted panoramic views from the very front of the ship. After relaxing with a glass of champagne to live music, a traditional afternoon tea or after a day exploring ashore, guests can retire to their spacious and beautifully designed suite.

Fully personalized service comes as standard, with access to a 24-hour butler who will quickly get to know each guest’s personal preferences with warm, friendly and unobtrusive service. A dedicated concierge is also on-hand to facilitate any request from dinner and spa reservations to a daily newspaper delivery. No request is too big or too small.

Completing the exclusive feeling is a private sundeck with pool, comfortable sun loungers, shady cabanas and whirlpool. The nearby bar and grill offer a well-deserved cocktail, a glass of bubbly or a light bite.

MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises will also be launching MSC Seascape in December this year with a 32,000-square-foot MSC Yacht Club set across four decks. Features include:

  • A glamourous entrance featuring a three-deck back-lit Onyx wall and signature Swarovski staircases.

  • The private pool area and sun deck spanning more than 21,000 square feet, offering a private pool and panoramic whirlpool with eight seats and individual jets, plus a standard whirlpool.

  • 131 suites (five different types), including the traditional interior, deluxe and royal suites as well as 41 deluxe grand suites with extra space and a walk-in closet. The two Owner’s Suites offer more than 1,000 square feet of space each, along with extended private balconies with whirlpools and outdoor living areas.

  • From December 2022, MSC Seascape will call at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas, where MSC Yacht Club guests will benefit from privileges ashore including a private beach and the Ocean House, which serves all-inclusive drinks and food.

    The MSC Yacht Club is available on all Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World Class ships.

To find out more about the MSC Yacht Club offering, click here.

To find out more about MSC World Europa, click here.

To find out more about MSC Seascape, click here.

Discover Wine Around the World With Azamara

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In celebration of National Wine Day, Azamara, the upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, is inviting travelers to discover wine around the world through new shore excursions featuring immersive wine tasting experiences in Italy and Croatia.

On Azamara’s new Meet The Winemakers excursion in Croatia, guests will take a scenic drive to the wineries of beautiful Konavle Valley. At Vodopić Winery, guests will sample four delicious wines accompanied by traditional local bites while learning about the achievements of the Vodopić family over generations. Travelers will then make their way through picturesque villages to Crvik family vineyards and winery, which has been producing wines for over 100 years. Andro Crvik, the third generation winemaker in the family, will take guests through a tasting of some of the finest wines in the region.

In Italy, Azamara’s new Volterra & Exclusive Bocelli Wine Tasting excursion takes guests on a guided walking tour through Volterra to see historic beauties and an artisan laboratory. Travelers will stop at Teatro del Silenzio, where world-renowned Maestro Andrea Bocelli performs annually for thousands of fans, before touring the Bocelli family vineyards in the heart of Tuscany. At the Bocelli Restaurant, Andrea Bocelli’s own nephew will host guests for a private wine tasting and four-course lunch.

On an intimate Cinque Terre Wine Tasting excursion, a small group will hop aboard a local boat for a panoramic cruise through the rugged sea cliffs, terraced vineyards, and secluded townships of Cinque Terre. The cruise will arrive at the charming village of Monterosso al Mare, where guests will visit a local winery for an exclusive tour and tasting of the estate’s finest vintages.

Guest-favorite wine-focused shore excursions include the Wine Workshop at Spinoglio Winery in Montevideo, Uruguay, where the Spinoglio Winery winemaker guides guests through an exclusive tasting and wine blending workshop, and the Wineries of Hawkes Bay excursion in Napier, New Zealand’s famed wine country. Travelers can also extend their voyage with pre- and post-cruise programs such as the Greater Kruger National Park Safari & Winelands program which explores South Africa wine region, and the Enchanted Tuscany Countryside program which includes a three-night stay at the Castello di Velona Thermal Spa & Winery.

In addition to these shore excursions and land programs, Azamara features wines from around the world onboard with a wine list of over 100 labels. The independent cruise line offers a selection of 9 wines complimentary, all of which are single-vineyard and must be approved by a wine expert before carrying an exclusive Azamara logo. At each port, Azamara’s sommelier expands wine options further by purchasing local wines to offer during lunch or dinner, so guests can get an immersive taste of every unique destination without leaving the ship. Guests looking for a bespoke onboard experience will love the Chef’s Table, an exclusive dining experience pairing a destination-inspired seven-course meal with wines selected by Azamara’s sommelier, tailored to guests’ preferences.   

My review of Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Orion