Princess Cruises Ready to Welcome All Guests with Transport Canada’s Removal of all COVID-19 Requirements to Enter Country

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SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (September 26, 2022) - With today’s announcement from Transport Canada to remove all COVID-19 requirements to enter the country, Princess Cruises is prepared to welcome all guests on cruises visiting, arriving or departing from Canadian ports, including its Canada/New England voyages and Alaska cruises where the cruise line is the industry leader. All of Princess’ Alaska cruises feature Canada as part of the itinerary. 

“We applaud these decisions by Transport Canada to make visiting the country easier and more convenient for all guests sailing our popular Alaska and Canada/New England itineraries, and look forward to welcoming everyone on our incredible Alaska and Canadian cruises,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Alaska and Canadian cruises are among the most desired vacation options in the world, and we look forward to welcoming everyone who’s waited the past three years for this market to fully open.”

Princess is in the process of notifying guests and travel advisors of this tremendous development and is excited to welcome everyone excited to take an Alaska vacation in 2023. 

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.

Our review of Discovery Princess

CARNIVAL LUMINOSA SETS SAIL FOR FIRST TIME WITH NEW LIVERY

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Carnival Luminosa set sail today for the first time with her new livery and funnel, making her one step closer to being ready for vacationing guests.

Already added to half of the Carnival fleet, the stunning new livery now showcased on Carnival Luminosa was introduced on Mardi Gras in 2021, and features the red, white and blue hues long associated with Carnival Cruise Line. The ship also boasts a vintage funnel design reminiscent of the funnels on Carnival’s original ships like Mardi Gras, Carnivale and Festivale, which has also been painted with Carnival’s iconic colors.

Under the watchful eye of Captain Adriano Binacchi, Carnival Luminosa departed herPalermo, Italy, dry dock to head to Dubai where the ship’s crew will soon join and get to know their new home before heading to their final Australian destination.

“We’ve been anticipating the day where we could see Carnival Luminosa sail the open seas with our new hull design and updated funnel, and it’s even more special than we imagined,” said Captain Binacchi. “Now, she’s on her way to what truly makes a Carnival cruise vacation special – getting our crew on board! With Luminosa’s uniqueness and our team members who make everyone feel at home, this ship is truly going to deliver a new level of fun that our guests have not experienced before.”

Today also marks the first time Carnival Luminosa is sailing with its new Bahamian flag. The ship was officially registered last week with the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA). 

Carnival Luminosa will sail from Brisbane to a variety of seasonal itineraries from Nov. 6, 2022 to April 13, 2023, offering something for everyone, before repositioning for seasonal service from Seattle to Alaska next May, including some exotic, first-time-for-Carnival destinations.

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.

Aurora Expeditions hosts a variety of new itineraries

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Photo courtesy of Michael Baynes Photography

Antarctica is the destination on everyone’s bucket list right now, and luckily the best time to visit is quickly approaching. From November to March, Antarctica’s summer season, the days in Antarctica are at their longest and wildlife is most active. This year, adventure fanatics should choose to travel to the great white continent with Aurora Expeditions, where they’ll be fully immersed in this new world with innovative itinerary combinations and activities, such as polar scuba diving, not offered by others.

During this season, the temperature in Antarctica is regularly above zero, so wildlife enthusiasts will have a chance to spot an abundance of animals, such as polar bears, penguins and more. The sun is also in a perfect position for photographers to capture incredible sunrises and sunsets, and the long daylight hours make the weather much more favorable for land excursions. The beauty doesn’t end at night, because of zero light pollution coming through, travelers will be surrounded by millions of glistening stars at night and even catch a glimpse of the beautiful northern lights, as well as the milky way!

Aurora Expeditions hosts a variety of new itineraries that will appeal to anyone interested in visiting. Please see below for details.

Falklands~Malvinas and Antarctic Peninsula: 

  • Perfect for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers, this is an in-depth, five-day exploration of the Falklands~Malvinas and Antarctic Peninsula in mid-spring when it is at its most pristine and ideal for landscape photography. Expect to find no less than six species of breeding penguins, seals, and 23 annual migrants of birds.

South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey featuring South Sandwich Islands

  • Wildlife lovers will also enjoy this epic voyage discovering the Falklands~Malvinas, encountering the animal haven in South Georgia, and sailing to the South Sandwich Islands, along with an adventure seeking voyage to a chain of seldom-visited volcanic islands located 460 miles south-east of South Georgia. The South Sandwich Islands is in a corner of the world that very few people reach, making this is unique opportunity to become one of those few. 

Antarctic Peninsula in Depth

  • This is the ultimate expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula that includes visits to well-known locations and opportunities for surprise discoveries, with nine full days to discover the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula in the peak of summer. Those who love an adrenaline rush should opt for this voyage as it also sails through the Drake Passage.

Antarctic Explorer Express

  • This expedition is the younger sibling to the fully-grown Antarctic Explorer voyage, featuring a condensed version of the longer itinerary for travelers who might be short on time. Take a break from taking the Drake Passage on the way back and use your time to explore Antarctica with Zodiac cruises, polar plunges and more.

Deep Weddell Following Nordensköld

  • History enthusiasts will be astounded by the Weddell Sea region, which is renowned for vast amounts of ice – sea ice, pack ice and gigantic icebergs. For adventurous expeditioners, a visit to the area can be rewarding, most notably for its historical associations surrounding the abandonment of Ernest Shackleton’s ship, The Endurance, after it was trapped in ice. The area  is also well known to be rich in geology and paleontology. Travelers can scour for ancient fossils of gastropods, large clams and spiral-shaped ammonites.

Circle and Weddell

  • Antarctic adventurers can aim to tick two boxes off their bucket list on this voyage. Here,  travelers have the opportunity to visit regions in Antarctica that most people who have visited the region have never experienced – below the Antarctic Circle and attempting to forge a path through the ice in the Weddell Sea.

Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

SILVERSEA® REVEALS ENRICHING LINE-UP OF EXPERTS FOR THE INAUGURAL SAILING OF SILVER ENDEAVOUR℠

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Silversea executive Conrad Combrink is set to host Silver Endeavour’s maiden voyage, which will depart for Antarctica on November 21, 2022

(Monaco – September 21, 2022) Silversea Cruises®, the leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, has named its line-up of experts for the inaugural voyage of new ship Silver Endeavour℠, the world’s most luxurious expedition ship. Departing round-trip from King George Island on November 21, 2022, Silver Endeavour will host qualified historians, marine biologists, anthropologists, naturalists, filmmakers, and more on her maiden voyage, enriching guests’ experiences with informative lectures, workshops, and excursions as they journey deep into the White Continent. In celebration of the milestone occasion, Conrad Combrink—Silversea’s SVP Expedition, Destination and Itinerary Management—will accompany travellers on the seven-day fly-cruise sailing. 

“The world’s most luxurious expedition vessel, Silver Endeavour has broadened Silversea’s polar offering—the most diverse in ultra-luxury expedition cruising—to unlock all-new experiences for guests,” said Conrad Combrink.“Marking my 78th journey to the continent, I am excited to accompany our guests as we fly on an exclusive, Silversea-curated, chartered DAP Antarctic Airways flight directly into Antarctica, embarking Silver Endeavour at King George Island, before spending seven days discovering this frozen world. Our industry-leading expedition team will design an exceptional line-up of experiences to showcase the very best of the continent’s icy landscapes and captivating wildlife during Silver Endeavour’s inaugural season, while Captain Niklas Peterstam and his crew will ensure an exceptional service throughout—having served aboard the ship since September 2021.”

THE WHITE CONTINENT VIA ANTARCTICA BRIDGE

For the inaugural voyage of Silver Endeavour, Silversea’s guests will fly directly to Antarctica in European business-class comfort through Antarctica Bridge, the cruise line’s fly-cruise offering, embarking the ship on King George Island on November 21, 2022. Some of the destinations that guests might experience include the Antarctic Sound, where travellers may be greeted by towering ice formations as they approach the northernmost point of the Antarctic Peninsula. They will have the opportunity to explore the landscape, with hiking excursions, Zodiac tours, and kayaking, hosted by the expedition team. Days will be spent exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, with sightings of vast penguin colonies and other wildlife species, including whales, various other bird species, and seals. Following in the footsteps of famous explorers, Silversea plans to call in the South Shetland Islands, before returning to King George Island where guests will board a flight back to Punta Arenas. 

 AN INDUSTRY-LEADING TEAM

 Captain Niklas Peterstam, who has served aboard Silver Endeavour since September 2021, will welcome guests as the ship’s Master for her inaugural season—together with his Senior Officers and an experienced crew. Strengthening Silversea’s destination leadership, the cruise line’s industry-leading expedition team will enrich the voyage with topical workshops, lectures, and guided tours. Led by Expedition Leader Marieke Egan, the team will embark the ship ahead of her maiden sailing and will remain on board for the duration of her inaugural Antarctica season. As well as benefitting from the presence of Silversea executive Conrad Combrink, guests travelling aboardSilver Endeavour’s inaugural sailing will also enjoy lectures on Ernest Shackleton and the HMS Endeavour from Nicholas Crane, the former President of the Royal Geographical Society.

Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s SVP of Expedition, Destination and Itinerary Management

From the moment in which Silversea Cruises became the first ultra-luxury cruise line to offer expedition voyages in 2008, Conrad Combrink has been tasked with creating and coordinating many aspects of the cruise line’s expedition programme, with the aim of unlocking unique experiences for guests across all seven continents. As SVP of Expeditions, Destination, and Itinerary Management, Conrad leads a multinational and diverse, passionate team that is tasked with creating authentic, unique destination experiences. His work encompasses an active role in the strategic planning of all Silversea itineraries, programme development, community engagement, and regulatory processes. In addition, Conrad oversees the shore experience programme in more than 900 destinations, as well as all aspects of turnaround operations. Conrad and his team lead all Silversea’s itinerary development of more than 350 voyages, visiting all seven continents. He has an inspiring passion for expedition and cruise travel, which has taken him to over 150 countries, across all seven continents.

Marieke Egan, Expedition Leader

Marieke grew up in the Netherlands, but spent a lot of time in the foothills of the Swiss Alps, learning to cross glaciers before she could tie her own shoelaces. Developing her adventurous spirit, she took up speed skating, winning medals in the Dutch National Championships. After completing a degree and career in Psychiatry, she decided to explore the world, feeding her soul with new adventures. She trekked extensively through the Nepal Himalaya and High Andes in South America. Marieke migrated to Tasmania, where she found her calling as a Naturalist, developing and sharing her knowledge and love for pure wilderness. This continued with forays into the Kimberley region of Tropical Australia, leading 4WD tours. Today, she enjoys sharing nature’s best, from the bottom to the top of the world, thriving as an Expedition Leader in the expedition cruise industry – from Antarctica to tropical Seychelles, Indonesian and Pacific Islands to the High Arctic’s Greenland, Svalbard & Russian Far East.

Captain Niklas Peterstam, Master of Silver Endeavour

Captain Niklas Peterstam started his maritime career in 1979, moving into expedition cruising in 1991, navigating areas such as Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Russian Far East, among others. After gaining experience at the helm of larger ships in Asia, Captain Peterstam returned to Europe to deliver three mega cruise ships from a shipyard in Germany. Various stints with reputable cruise lines, both ashore and at sea, ensued until 2018, when Captain Peterstam returned to the position of Captain full time. Captain Peterstam has been aboard Silver Endeavour since September 2021, and has already undertaken voyages to Antarctica aboard the ship.

Nicholas Crane, Former President of the Royal Geographical Society

Nicholas Crane is an author, geographer, and cartographic expert. He is the recipient of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society’s Mungo Park Medal in recognition of outstanding contributions to geographical knowledge, and of the Royal Geographical Society’s Ness Award for popularising geography and the understanding of Britain. Between 2015 and 2018, Nick was the elected President of the Royal Geographical Society. Nick has presented many acclaimed TV series on BBC2, among them Map Man, Great British Journeys, Town, Britannia and Coast. He has also been the lead presenter on more than 80 BBC films.

 View entire list of experts joining Silver Endeavour’s inaugural voyage:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/p7mm0vs840qd6k93c0oy7/h?dl=0&rlkey=63yqk6z0ns9uaeejhypu4s6gh

 Find out more information about Silver Endeavour’s inaugural season:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-silver-endeavour.html

Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

MSC WORLD EUROPA OFFERS NEW INNOVATIVE ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT IN HIGH-TECH VENUES FOR HOURS OF ENDLESS FUN

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  • MSC Cruises’ first World Class ship to offer guests an abundance of exciting entertainment options including new shows, immersive experiences and some surprises

  • Guests can enjoy five new themed parties, two new interactive big screen game shows, multiple state-of-the-art attractions, and more in high-tech venues across the ship

Geneva, Switzerland – September 15, 2022 – MSC World Europa is set to feature fresh and exciting entertainment options that take the guest experience to the next level—complimenting the cutting-edge technology onboard MSC Cruises’ most innovative and environmentally advanced new flagship.

Guests of all ages will be able to enjoy awe-inspiring entertainment from morning to night, including three new concert-style shows in the multipurpose Luna Park Arena; five new full-scale theater productions in the World Theater; four themed experiences in the Panorama Lounge; and surprise pop-up entertainment throughout the ship.

Steve Leatham, MSC Cruises Global Head of Entertainment, said: “The brand-new interactive entertainment featured on board MSC World Europa will be unlike anything that our guests have ever experienced, combining futuristic technology and unique specially designed venues. From surprise moments that will take place during the entirety of the cruise to spectacular shows and state-of the-art venues, our guests will be blown away by the abundance of fantastic entertainment options on board as they find themselves at the heart of productions and immerse themselves in incredible performances and activities.”

The rich assortment of entertainment on board includes:

LUNA PARK ARENA WITH THREE INTERACTIVE SHOWS

The new Luna Park Arena is a 300-seat multifunctional entertainment venue that will host movies, game shows, kids’ activities and themed parties. Daytime offerings include a new VR Drone Academy, two new interactive gameshows, Digital Dance Academy offering three Dance with Flavia classes featuring Strictly Come Dancing champion Flavia Cacace-Mistry, and Doremi’s Wake Up Rave for the ship’s youngest guests. Guests will also be able to participate in challenges aimed at breaking Guinness World Record titles during daytime events and a large-scale evening show in the arena.

At night, the venue comes to life with three interactive concerts combining technology and stunning visuals:

  • Symphonic Ibiza: Guests can enjoy a night of music and mystique with a big screen orchestra, modern Euro dance music, three specialty artists, dancers, a DJ, two vocalists, and a club-style atmosphere that continues well into the night.

  • Supershow: This unique K POP party will allow guests to let loose as they learn dance routines and sing along with hits, accompanied by street dancers, acrobats and vocalists. Participants will also be able to see themselves on the Boogie Cam as they follow along with the dance moves.

  • Crimson Club: This all-out action adventure for the whole family features a movie-themed stunt show. The audience will pick sides, interact via spy cams, and encounter a few surprises as actors mingle with the crowd.

World Travel Theater

FIVE NEW FULL-SCALE THEATER SHOWS

The World Theater, the main stage on board, will feature five original shows focused on exploration, travel, the sea, and sustainability. The audience will be astounded by the shows’ combination of amazing talent, LED visuals, incredible scenery and props, and 350 custom-made costumes. Shows include:

  • Eko, with costumes made from recycled material

  • The original Amelia Earhart show, with an E-Bike Stunt Wheel symbolizing the complexity of her aircraft

  • A Night on Broadway, featuring classic theater show tunes that the audience will know and love

  • Cadmo The Landwalker, focusing on exploration

  • Yellow Submarine, featuring circus elements based on Beatles songs

PANORAMA LOUNGE

The aft of the ship features the stunning Panorama Lounge, which will have music-themed experiences to enjoy over pre-show drinks, changing screens that reflect the nightly theme, and an interactive floor with unique designs that will transform the space.

During the day, guests can tap into their creativity as the floor turns into a giant coloring book for all ages to fill in unique designs. At night, four immersive 90-minute music experiences will light up the lounge by showcasing dance styles from across the globe including samba, tango, waltz, disco, lindy hop and many more. Live bands, dancers, singers, aerialists and acrobats will take part in:

  • Let’s Get Loud, with popular music like “Despacito” and “Bailamos”

  • Ultimate Disco, featuring bright colors and classics including “Boogie Wonderland” and “Turn the Beat Around”

  • Bandstand Boogie, taking guests back with old-school tunes

  • Rock Evolution, a rock and roll dance party featuring iconic hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” that will get guests up and out of their seats

After each show, the venue transitions into one of several themed nightclub experiences.

STREET THEATER

Aside from the dedicated venues on MSC World Europa, there will be a variety of surprise moments that pop up throughout the ship during the entirety of the cruise. The two living exhibitions feature Instagrammable content that focuses on the themes of Earth and Ocean. Artists, actors, musicians and props will appear at random, stopping guests in their tracks as they explore MSC World Europa.

UNBEATABLE ATTRACTIONS FOR ALL

The ship is also outfitted with unique attractions and activities that will provide even more options for entertainment.

  • The Venom Drop @ The Spiral is the longest dry slide at sea, with sleek curves spanning 11 decks to offer an adventure that doubles as an architectural centerpiece

  • The ship will feature the fleet’s largest waterpark—complete with VR technology

  • Sea days come alive with activities like the roller disco, rock & roll bingo and bumper cars

  • A Sundowner DJ party will take place each evening with a holographic DJ experience – a truly unforgettable way to enjoy a sunset at sea

For more information on MSC World Europa, click here.

Princess Cruises Unveils Bespoke Next Generation Ship – Sun Princess®

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Epic Sphere Atrium, First Ever Geodesic Dome, Innovative Entertainment Venues and Premium Suites Headline the Largest Princess Ship Ever Built

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (September 15, 2022) – Princess Cruises today revealed a stunning new and bespoke ship platform that is the brand’s largest ship ever that will accommodate over 4,000 guests. The new Sun Princess boasts stunning views, expansive venues, innovative entertainment venues, multi-story dining rooms and next level stateroom accommodations while remaining true to the smooth clean lines and design aesthetics inspired by the Seawitch icon and popularized in the original “Love Boat” TV series and returning the venerable “Sun Princess” name back into operation. 

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard and scheduled to debut in early 2024, the 175,500-ton vessel is the largest Princess ship ever constructed and embraces Italian heritage by featuring a next-level, brand-iconic Piazza and The Dome, a cutting-edge entertainment space inspired by the terraces of Santorini. Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion that will extend Princess’s leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences at unmatched scale. Princess is unique in the ability to deliver incredible cruise ship amenities typical of the largest ships in the world while delivering personalized service found on the industry’s smallest ships. 

“Sun Princess is a new and bespoke ship platform, designed to simultaneously embrace Princess heritage while boldly pressing into the future with iconic, elegant and pure lines unique to our brand,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “A show-stopping, first-of-its-kind Dome on the top deck and suspended glass Piazza in the center of Sun Princess offer innovative designs showcasing expansive ocean views for incredible opportunities to connect with the sea.”

A first-glimpse video featuring renderings of Sun Princess can be found here, and images can be found here. 

The cruise line also announced that Sun Princess will sail an inaugural spring/summer season of Mediterranean cruises followed by Western and Eastern Caribbean voyages out of Port Everglades, Florida in the fall of 2024.

Innovative Guest Experience

Infused with light, the ship connects guests with dynamic views of the world and innovative experiences, from service to food to entertainment. The line’s Piazza,spans three stories, forming an iconic architectural feature offering guests an outward looking suspended space with comfortable seating and areas to enjoy the ocean views in every direction. An impressive LED screen is also showcased in the center of the Piazza that can be moved and configured to deliver live entertainment programming. Adjacent to the Piazza Atrium will be a new coffee shop, Coffee Currents, Bellini’s Cocktail Bar, along with Princess favorites like Crooners Bar and Alfredo’s Pizzeria.

The other stand-out structure onboard Sun Princess is The Dome. Inspired by the terraces of Santorini, it is a multi-level covered deck and first-of-its-kind true glass-enclosed dome ever constructed on a cruise ship. During the day, the Dome features an indoor/outdoor pool, and unique water feature, in a comfortable and relaxed space. At night, the pool becomes a stage, and the Dome completely transforms into an entertainment venue with a South Beach vibe, state-of-the-art lighting effects and the ability to deliver stunning aerial performances.

The ships overall interior design embraces the outside and celebrates the romance of the sea, offering outward views from morning until night. With brighter and lighter décor and finishes, Sun Princess delivers more memorable vantage points to take in the stunning destinations and ocean vistas guests want to experience on Princess cruise vacations.

Newly Appointed Suites and Staterooms

With 2,157 total staterooms, including 50 suites and 100 connecting rooms, the 21-deck Sun Princess features more outdoor balcony space and all balcony accommodations feature an in-room sofa. 

Also launching exclusively on Sun Princess will be a new level of suite accommodations, the Signature Collection. In addition to premium stateroom amenities, Signature Collection suites include access to the Signature Restaurant, Signature Lounge, and Signature Sun Deck, a private area of the Sanctuary. 

With Sun Princess, Club Class accommodations onboard this ship, and all Princess ships will now be called Reserve Collection, which are the best-located mini suite staterooms. Within the Reserve Collection will be Reserve Collection Cabana rooms, resort-style staterooms that offer a balcony and private cabana, an extra-large outdoor lounge space. These premium accommodations also include access to the Reserve Collection Restaurant.

In addition to the ship’s stunning design are the sustainable elements being engineered in the vessel. Sun Princess is part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising focus and is one of 11 new ships in the corporate fleet powered by LNG fuel technology. 

The inaugural season for Sun Princess begins in early 2024 with Mediterranean itineraries. The ship’s first three voyages will go on sale at 3pm eastern on Friday, September 16.  

This is the third ship to be honored with the Sun Princess name, adding to the legacy of the first ship sailing from 1974 to 1988 and the second ship sailing from 1995 to 2020. At that time, she had the largest number of balcony cabins, and the cruise line’s first 24-hour cafe.

More details about Sun Princess, including additional dining details, entertainment and onboard features, will be unveiled over the coming months. Ship information can be found at www.princess.com. 

A second, next-generation Sphere class ship is also on order, slated to be delivered by Fincantieri in spring 2025. 

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.

My review of Celebrity Apex

Princess Cruises and Xponential Fitness, Inc. Announce Exclusive License Agreement

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Princess will add Xponential’s leading boutique fitness branded content across its full fleet of premium cruise ships

OneSpaWorld, Princess Cruises’ exclusive provider of health, wellness, and fitness at sea, will incorporate Xponential content into its programming

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (September 12, 2022) – Princess Cruises, the world’s most iconic premium cruise brand and a brand of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK), today announced an exclusive five-year licensing agreement with Xponential Fitness, Inc. (NYSE: XPOF), the largest global franchisor of boutique fitness brands. 

With this unique partnership, Princess will leverage Xponential Fitness’s extensive content in concert with OneSpaWorld’s unparalleled expertise in the health, wellness and fitness at sea sector to become the first major cruise line offering multiple, curated fitness brands to create uniquely customizable guest fitness experiences at sea.  Over the term of the agreement, a minimum of eight Xponential brands will be made available onboard each of Princess’ 15-ship fleet, resulting in a minimum total of 120 licensed studio experiences across the Princess fleet, featuring Xponential’s market-leading Club Pilates, Pure Barre, Yoga Six, CycleBar, Row House, AKT Dance, and StretchLab brands and fitness modalities to start, with more exciting Xponential Fitness offerings to come. 

Xponential Fitness will work with OneSpaWorld (Nasdaq: OSW), Princess Cruises’ exclusive partner for health, wellness and fitness services, to incorporate Xponential’s outstanding experiences into the fitness offerings provided to Princess guests, managed by OneSpaWorld’s fitness professionals and onboard staff in onboard fitness and spa facilities. 

“Our goal is simply to provide the best vacation experiences in the world at the best value. Blending Xponential’s unmatched boutique fitness brand portfolio with OneSpaWorld’s beautifully-curated fitness program, developed over the course of our 25-year exclusive collaboration, allows us to align the most iconic brand in cruising with the best and most comprehensive offerings in the fitness industry,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Whether at your home, your local studio, your stateroom, the ship fitness center, sports court or lido deck, our guests can engage with Pure Barre, Club Pilates, YogaSix, StretchLab, Stride or any of their favorite fitness experiences.” 

“This partnership will broaden the fitness experience available to the millions of guests who sail on Princess,” said Anthony Geisler, CEO of Xponential Fitness, Inc. “Our wide variety of fitness offerings, ranging from stretching to cycling, will provide everyone, including avid Xponential members and first-timers, the opportunity to experience our brands in addition to the existing extensive suite of OneSpaWorld services offered on board. We look forward to working closely with OneSpaWorld to create extraordinary value for Princess and its guests. Clearly, the strong synergies among Princess Cruises, Xponential Fitness, and OneSpaWorld will create value for all involved in the partnership.” 

“We are thrilled to partner with Princess and Xponential to expand our delivery of personalized, custom Princess guest experiences at sea by incorporating the premier Xponential Fitness studio fitness brand content and its market-leading multi-modality programming into our offering,” said Leonard Fluxman, CEO, President and Executive Chairman of OneSpaWorld. “Together with the Xponential Fitness team, we will design remarkable Princess-inspired fitness experiences for each Princess guest, continuing our 25-year commitment to innovate and deliver marvelous new guest experiences and memories.”

In addition to the onboard Xponential brand studio classes, Princess will make Xponential Fitness’ XPLUS virtual on-demand studio class subscription service available in more than 23,000 staterooms on Princess’ proprietary digital content platform, OceanView. Princess guests need not be Xponential Fitness members to experience in-studio live classes and in-stateroom on-demand classes, and can continue their onboard experience post-cruise through XPASS at exclusive Princess discounted prices.

Further, Princess will integrate customized equipment packages from Xponential Fitness partners to complement its onboard boutique studios, and will also make Xponential Fitness merchandise available in onboard retail stores and on Princess’ industry leading on-demand location-based services platform OceanNow. 

Along with these exclusive onboard and post-cruise Xponential Fitness offerings, delivered by OneSpaWorld at sea, Princess Cruises also becomes the first Xponential Fitness corporate wellness partner through its XPASS multi-brand live studio class program and its XPLUS virtual on-demand subscription fitness programming made available at exclusive discounts to Princess Cruises’ more than 30,000 employees. With this agreement, Xponential Fitness and its brands become the Official Fitness Content Partner of Princess Cruises, while Princess Cruises becomes the Official Vacation Partner of all Xponential Fitness brands.

My review of Celebrity Apex

CARNIVAL CELEBRATION SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES SEA TRIALS AHEAD OF DEBUT AT PORTMIAMI IN NOVEMBER

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MIAMI – Sept.14, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship, Carnival Celebration, is one more milestone closer to her highly-anticipated debut in her homeport of PortMiami after successfully completing sea trials in the Baltic Sea.

Carnival Celebration set sail on her first round of sea trials Monday, September 5, from Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, the same shipyard where Celebration’s sister ship, Mardi Gras, was built. Carnival Celebration had a full contingent of officers, technicians and engineers on board to thoroughly test the ship’s technical, mechanical and navigational systems.

“During her sea trials, Carnival Celebration underwent several tests, which are meant to determine the ship’s capability and her performance. We’ve done many maneuvering tests, such as endurance tests, steering tests, speed tests and thrusters tests. The ship performed wonderfully, and shortly, we will get her out and start cruising,” said Capt. Vincenzo Alcaras.

Carnival Celebration’s arrival to Miami will continue the cruise line’s 50th birthday celebration. The ship will feature several unique zones, including 820 Biscayne – a tribute to Miami, where Carnival Cruise Line was born, showcasing styles and flavors of the 305. 

Celebration will also include many of the features that made Mardi Gras one of the most anticipated cruise ships, including BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, the first roller coaster at sea, an atrium spanning three decks and guest-favorites like Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, and Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken restaurant.

Following an inaugural 6-day voyage to the Eastern Caribbean, Carnival Celebration will launch year-round, seven-day cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from PortMiami beginning Nov. 21.  The week-long voyages will visit destinations like San Juan, Puerto Rico, Cozumel, Mexico and Grand Turk.

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

Azamara® Announces the Removal of Vaccination Requirement for Guests 

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Beginning December 1, 2022, the upmarket cruise line will no longer require proof of vaccination for guests on Caribbean and European sailings 

MIAMI, September 1, 2022 – Azamara – the upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion® experiences – announces the removal of its COVID-19 vaccination requirement starting December 1, 2022, for guests traveling on any Caribbean and European sailings, unless required by local regulations.

Regardless of vaccination status, Azamara will continue to encourage all guests departing from any port to get tested at leisure prior to travel to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. These results will not be required to board the vessel.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority and we have continued to closely monitor the evolving global situation,” said President of Azamara, Carol Cabezas. “Azamara continues to implement the highest safety measures in accordance with the local health authorities and the current positive direction of the travel industry. We look forward to many being able to sail with us for the immersive cruising experience that we are known for and explore the wonderful destinations the Azamara way.”

Azamara recently made the decision to remove its COVID-19 embarkation testing requirement as of July 25, 2022. COVID-19 testing will continue to be available to guests onboard as needed. To ensure a safe environment for guests and crew members, Azamara’s crew will continue to be fully vaccinated and wear face coverings while onboard.

For more information on Azamara’s health and safety protocols, please visit: 

www.azamara.com/explorewell

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ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES APPOINTS TANYA SPRINGER AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

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New Executive to Focus on Bolstering Travel Advisor Relationships and Support

Tanya Springer, VP of Sales

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., September 1, 2022 – Atlas Ocean Voyages announced the appointment of Tanya Springer as the yacht-style cruise brand’s Vice President of Sales. Tanya brings nearly 30 years of sales and marketing experience in the cruise industry and will lead Atlas’ Sales strategy, with a focus on developing, expanding and fostering Atlas’ relationships with its valued travel advisor partners. She will also support the Marketing strategy as the brand continues to grow partnerships; receive new ships; and expand deployment.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Tanya Springer as Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Vice President of Sales,” said James Rodriguez, President and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “Tanya’s extensive experience in the cruise industry will be key to introducing the Atlas brand to more travel advisors and further elevating our relationships with current partners. Atlas greatly appreciates travel advisors and their critical industry role, and we will continue to support and promote them.”

“I am delighted to join the Atlas Ocean Voyages management team,” said Tanya. “Atlas Ocean Voyages is a fantastic cruise vacation product, and I am looking forward to engaging with travel advisors and creating long-lasting and mutually rewarding partnerships. One of my first goals is to make Atlas even more easy and profitable for cruise sellers to do business with.”

Tanya began her career at Renaissance Cruises and continued on to Oceania Cruises after a stint at Online Vacation Center, where she gained a greater understanding and appreciation of the Travel Advisor’s perspective. At both Renaissance and Oceania, she served in Sales and Marketing roles, growing National Account, International, and Field Sales. Tanya is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and holds an MBA.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is a small-ship cruise line that provides the ultimate way to experience the world in comfortable luxury on yacht-style cruises. World Navigator, launched in August 2021, and World Traveller, launching November 2022, both feature 98 suites and staterooms, and are the line’s first two small expedition ships bringing curious global travelers to boutique and marquee destinations around the world. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer, are under construction or on order. 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 yacht-style expedition.

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