Oceania Cruises Unveils Inaugural Season Sailings for Allura

Brand’s Newest Ship to Launch Summer 2025, Voyages Open for Sale September 13, 2023

Miami, FL, September 6, 2023 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has revealed the Inaugural Season sailings for Allura, its newest ship, due to join the fleet in summer 2025. The 26 Inaugural Season sailings span more than 92 destinations on various seven- to 34-day voyages and will open for sale on September 13, 2023. The opulent newbuild will boast standard staterooms measuring at an astounding 291 square feet, larger than many entry-level suites on some ultra-luxury cruise lines.

As the line’s second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship, she follows her sister, Vista, which launched to great global acclaim this past May in a glittering christening ceremony and sold-out debut season. On a journey to the ultimate Oceania Cruises experience, Allura’s monumental Inaugural Season is bound to excite any traveler’s desires and can be viewed online beginning September 6, 2023, at www.OceaniaCruises.com. 

Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, commented: “Excitement is already building in advance of Allura’s debut. This beautiful new addition to our family embodies the dynamic and dazzling future of Oceania Cruises. Allura heralds the ultimate evolution of our onboard experience, and her Inaugural Season is designed to entice curious world travelers, to allow them to reconnect with well-loved favorite destinations and discover new ones for the first time.” 

Calling at gems in the Eastern Mediterranean, the new vessel will sail her maiden voyage on a seven-day journey from Athens to Istanbul, departing on June 8, 2025. True to her name, Allura will journey to some of the most intriguing and inspiring destinations in her opening European season with calls at iconic cities and lesser-known gems such as Cádiz, Cagliari, Messina, Palma de Mallorca, Palermo and Cinque Terre and will feature overnight stays in Istanbul, Monte Carlo, Quebec City, Montreal and New York. From her summer season in the Mediterranean, Allura will sail to Canada and New England for an extended season in North America before her premiere winter season in the Caribbean. Thoughtfully curated for seasoned global travelers, a sample of Allura’s inaugural voyages may be found below:

Maiden Voyage – Athens to Istanbul, June 8, 2025, 7 days: Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Santorini, Greece; Heraklion (Crete), Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Canakkale (Troy), Turkey; Istanbul, Turkey

Flourishing Rivieras – Rome to Athens, July 29, 2025, 17 days: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa/Tuscany (Livorno), Italy; Portofino, Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; Saint-Tropez, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Sorrento/Capri, Italy; Santorini, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Antalya, Turkey; Bodrum, Turkey; Patmos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Explorer’s Grand Crossing – Rome to New York, August 27, 2025, 34 days: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Salerno, Italy; Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Valletta, Malta; Ibiza, Spain; Valencia, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; Provence (Marseille), France; Cannes, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Provence (Marseille), France; Barcelona (Tarragona), Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Cartagena, Spain; Málaga, Spain; Gibraltar, UK; Tangier, Morocco; Seville (Cádiz), Spain; Portimão, Portugal; Lisbon, Portugal; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; Horta (Azores), Portugal; St. John's, Newfoundland; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, New York

Maples & Manors – New York to Montreal, October 18, 2025, 11 days: New York, New York; Newport, Rhode Island; Boston, Massachusetts; Portland, Maine; Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Saguenay, Quebec; Quebec City, Quebec; Montreal, Quebec

Holiday Havens – Miami to Miami, December 21, 2025, 14 days: Miami, Florida; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Kralendijk, Bonaire; St. George's, Grenada; Kingstown, St. Vincent; Bridgetown, Barbados; Roseau, Dominica; St. John's, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Miami, Florida

On top of exquisite destination itineraries, Allura is no exception when it comes to serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea®. Guests will marvel at specialty dining venues, including new signature restaurants Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost; and enjoy innovative and surprising cocktails served by master mixologists at the Founders Bar. On Allura, guests are called to experience the essence of greater luxury. 

Allura Highlights:

• A new onboard Crêperie, serving freshly made crêpes and waffles to order in the morning and a decadent array of gelatos in the afternoon

• A new social hub, atop the ship, adorning sweeping views of the seascape and offering a perfect nook for quiet reflection. Where a living room ambiance meets learning, this new space sees The Library and digital center come together to serve our guests in a new way

• One chef for every 10 guests, ensuring 50% of crew members are dedicated to culinary experiences

• Only major cruise line to boast two Master Chefs of France

• 5 specialty dining venues, including new signature restaurants Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost

• 1,200 guests served by 800 crew members = two crew members for every three guests

• The most spacious standard staterooms at sea – an astounding 291 square feet 

• Hundreds of immersive shore excursions and tours to choose from on each sailing

• Onboard enrichment including art classes at Oceania Cruises’ much-loved Artist Loft, numerous guest speakers and sommelier demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s Wine Pairing Luncheons

• An expansive Culinary Center, and an accompanying Chef’s Studio, where epicurean secrets will be shared by the talented onboard Chef Instructors 

Del Rio added: “Allura will continue the evolution of the Oceania Cruises experience. At their inception, our ships Marina and Riviera were heralded as two of the most beautiful and perfect cruise ships ever built; Vista, and now Allura, carry forward this vision, building on and embodying the evolution of perfection. We cannot wait to welcome Allura to the fleet.”

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

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About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s eight small, luxurious ships carry a maximum of 1,250 guests and feature the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 600 marquee and boutique ports in more than 100 countries on seven continents on voyages that range from seven to more than 200 days. Oceania Cruises is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com.

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GEMS AND ICONS: SILVERSEA® OPENS EXCLUSIVE PRE-SALE ON 206 NEW VOYAGES FOR SUMMER 2025

Unlocking hidden gems and iconic cities, Silversea’s summer 2025 voyage collection includes two new Grand Voyages and 24 maiden calls

(Miami -- September 6, 2023) Silversea Cruises®, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has opened an exclusive pre-sale on a new collection of 206 voyages for summer 2025 — set to depart between March and November 2025. An expression of the brand’s destination leadership, the new voyage collection includes some of the most diverse regional offerings in ultra-luxury cruising, with multiple ships calling in hidden gems and iconic cities. Expanding its global coverage — which includes well over 900 destinations, more than any other cruise line — Silversea’s 12 ships will unlock 409 destinations in 60 countries in summer 2025, including 24 maiden calls.

“We are delighted to open an exclusive pre-sale on our new voyage collection for summer 2025,” said Barbara Muckermann, President of Silversea. “Leveraging our destination expertise to deliver all-new experiences for our guests’ enjoyment, our 206 new voyages – complete with 24 maiden calls – expand Silversea’s global coverage, which includes well over 900 destinations worldwide — more than any other cruise line. We have diversified our global offering, with multiple ships and an unparalleled variety of itineraries unlocking our planet’s most enriching cultures, communities, and natural wonders.”

Silversea’s summer 2025 voyage collection will enable travelers to journey deeper ashore, too, with 66 overnight calls and 421 late departures, with all-new itineraries complementing iconic sailings. Highlights of Silversea’s summer 2025 itinerary collection include:

TWO NEW GRAND VOYAGES: MEDITERRANEAN AND THE NORTH ATLANTIC & NORTHERN EUROPE

Two new Grand Voyages for 2025 will enable travelers to journey deeper into the Mediterranean and the North Atlantic & Northern Europe on extended voyages. Both itineraries will incorporate calls to iconic cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations — many of which are rarely visited and accessible only to smaller ships.

GRAND MEDITERRANEAN 2025:

Silver Spirit® will undertake the Grand Mediterranean 2025, departing Fusina (Venice) on September 18 and arriving in Lisbon on November 11. Over 54 days, Silversea’s guests will discover the Mediterranean’s most iconic cities – such as Venice, Athens, Barcelona, Dubrovnik, and Naples – with in-depth explorations of the Adriatic; the Greek Isles; and various other highlight regions in the Eastern, Southern, and Western Mediterranean. A series of lesser-visited gems, such as Palamos in Spain and Syros in Greece, feature among 44 destinations in 12 countries. Overnight calls in Istanbul, Naples, Livorno (Tuscany), and Malaga, as well as 12 late departures, enable travelers to spend longer in port and form meaningful connections with local cultures. Guests can choose from authentic experiences that include engaging with the local culinary culture in Dubrovnik through an immersive farm-to-table dining experience at an historic village estate that has produced wine, brandy, and olive oil for generations.

Watch a video on Silversea’s new summer 2025 voyage collection.

GRAND NORTH ATLANTIC & NORTHERN EUROPE 2025:

Departing from New York on June 11, Silver Shadow® will embark on the 83-day Grand North Atlantic & Northern Europe 2025, offering guests an immersive exploration of 55 destinations and 16 countries in the North Atlantic and Northern Europe, which, steeped in history, capture the essence of ancient Viking life. From New York, guests will journey through Eastern Canada to the British Isles, arriving in the Baltic Sea, the Norwegian Fjords, and Iceland at the best time of year, admiring many of the planet’s most striking natural wonders. From Patreksfjordur in Iceland, for example, travelers can journey to witness Dynjandi waterfall and Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier. Traveling aboard one of the most intimate ships sailing in the region, guests will also enjoy access to smaller destinations, such as Geiranger and Flåm.

INCREASED OFFERING IN THE MEDITERRANEAN: 84 VOYAGES ON SIX SHIPS

Diversifying and expanding its range of experiences in the region, Silversea has increased its presence in the Mediterranean for summer 2025, offering 84 voyage aboard six ships. A set of signature voyages aboard the intimate Silver Whisper® provides access to some of the smallest ports in the region, such as Milos, Amorgos, Pula, Vlore, and Seville. Brand new Silver Spirit and Silver Whisper itineraries take guests off the beaten path in the Greek Isles, complementing a sequence of immersive sailings aboard Silver Muse®, which take in some of the country’s most iconic destinations. The fleet’s newest addition, Silver Ray℠, will call in such famed destinations as Monaco, Syracuse, and Palma de Mallorca, delivering enriching culinary experiences through Silversea’s S.A.L.T. program. In Portofino, travelers will sample authentic cooking with tasting experiences at the scenic eco farm, La Portofinese. Brand new expeditions aboard Silver Wind® to the most far-flung shores of the Atlantic Isles and Northern Africa add yet another dimension to Silversea’s Mediterranean sailings.

ENHANCED ITINERARIES IN THE GALAPAGOS: 26 VOYAGES ABOARD SILVER ORIGIN

Utilizing its more than 10 years of experience in the region, Silversea has enhanced its offering in the Galapagos Islands aboard Silver Origin®, introducing enriched itineraries for deeper immersion and two new destinations.

• The North Central Itinerary: Silver Origin’s North Central itinerary will feature more time on the islands of Isabela and Fernandina in the summer 2025 season, and a new destination – Isla Lobos, San Cristobal – which offers opportunities for snorkeling with sea lions, paddle-boarding, and birding.

• The Western Itinerary: in summer 2025, Silver Origin’s Western itinerary will include a call in Bahia Bowditch, a brand new destination for Silversea, in which guests can relax on a pristine, white-sanded beach and explore coastal trails to lagoons.

Inspired by the cruise line’s S.A.L.T. culinary program, guests on both Galapagos itineraries will be able to dine on authentic, local cuisine inside a lava tunnel in Santa Cruz. Travelers will also have more opportunities to dive and fish with local operators.

14 VOYAGES TO THE ARCTIC & GREENLAND, INCLUDING SILVER ENDEAVOUR’S FIRST NORTHWEST PASSAGE CROSSING

Silversea has developed a deep and intimate knowledge of the Arctic and Greenland over many years, enabling unparalleled access to the regions’ most remote destinations. The cruise line has developed strong partnerships with local communities — in Coral Harbour, Qaqortoq, and Sisimut, for example — to offer travelers an authentic deep-dive into the local way of life. From May to August 2025, Silver Endeavour℠ and Silver Wind will undertake 14 voyages to rarely visited destinations, providing the chance to experience Inuit cultures, spot rare wildlife, and learn about some of the planet’s most remote environments through the enrichments of Silversea’s leading expedition experts. Silver Endeavour’s first crossing of the Northwest Passage is another highlight of the 2025 Arctic season, during which travelers will journey in the footsteps of many famous explorers over 24 days. With seamless return journeys, the new voyages include more opportunities to explore Svalbard at the best time of year, with nine itineraries ranging from seven to 18 days undertaken by two ships.

Other highlights of Silversea’s summer 2025 voyage collection include six voyages to the remote Kimberley region aboard Silver Cloud®; 36 voyages in Alaska aboard the region’s youngest ships; 26 sailings in Northern Europe aboard four ships; and much more.

View Silversea’s new collection of voyages for summer 2025 here.

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

CRYSTAL SYMPHONY RETURNS TO SERVICE FOLLOWING MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR REFURBISHMENT

Photo by Rachel Harris

Ship Sets Sail Today From Athens on Inaugural Voyage

MIAMI (Sept. 1, 2023) - Today Crystal Symphony officially re-enters service following an extensive refurbishment after being purchased by A&K Travel Group last summer. Departing on its inaugural voyage from Athens, the vessel which accommodates 606 guests, joins sister ship Crystal Serenity in an exciting new chapter for the renowned brand.

With nearly one staff member per guest and an impressive space-to-guest ratio (84.2 cu. ft. for every guest), Crystal Symphony now boasts larger, revamped suites, award-winning specialty dining restaurants and expansive public spaces - all complemented by industry-leading service. Crystal Symphony’s re-entry to service marks an impressive feat; in just one year, and on schedule, Crystal revitalized two ships and returned more than 80% of the line’s beloved crew.

Avenue Saloon - Rachel Harris

“We are so proud that Crystal Symphony has officially joined Crystal Serenity back in the water, signaling an exciting new chapter for Crystal – two ships refurbished and back in service in under a year is completely unprecedented,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “The ship’s exceptional enhancements reflect our unwavering commitment to providing guests with inspiration and enrichment as they sail to the globe’s most coveted destinations.”

Itineraries

Following the ship’s inaugural voyage from Athens to Istanbul, Crystal Symphony will sail eastward, towards exciting destinations such as Santorini, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi and Mumbai. For the remainder of 2023, the ship will sail throughout Oceania visiting locales including Sydney, Auckland, Papua New Guinea and Bali.

Suites & Guest Rooms

Crystal collaborated with renowned cruise ship architectural firm, GEM, to revamp select guest rooms and suites. The refreshed design incorporates a palette of neutral shades and elevated touchpoints, enhanced by gentle pastel tones reminiscent of the ocean's colors. As part of the ship’s refurbishments, there are two new guest room categories – the Jr. Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View, which serves as an option for solo travelers. These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite category.

● Single Guest Room with Ocean View: Cozy bedroom (up to 215 sq ft) redesigned in 2023, with welcoming and comfortable detailing, butler service, and ocean views.

● Sapphire Veranda Suite: Spacious suite (up to 430 sq ft) with living area, elegant finishings and private veranda, accompanied by attentive butler service. Sapphire suites are available to book in new and classic designs.

Sapphjire Veranda Suite - Rachel Harris

● Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite: This new, large suite (up to 645 sq ft) includes spacious rooms with separate dining and living areas looking onto a private veranda, also accompanied by attentive butler service.

Dining

With 10 distinct dining options, including 24-hour in-suite dining service, guests onboard Crystal Symphony now have access to unparalleled culinary experiences like the following:

● Umi Uma: The return of legendary Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma – the only Nobu dining concept at sea where guests can enjoy award-winning, innovative Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.

● Osteria D’Ovidio: Named for Crystal's Executive Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, this restaurant specializes in traditional Italian meals.

● Waterside Restaurant: Crystal’s main dining room features open seating for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

● The Bistro: A modern café and coffee bar with light snacks such as fresh pastries, bagels and fruit in the morning and a selection of international cheeses, pâtés, prosciutto, smoked salmon and dessert delicacies throughout the afternoon.

● Trident Grill: Set poolside, Trident Grill features classic delights like burgers, melts, salads and more.

● Scoops Gelato Bar: Crystal’s sumptuous dessert bar features authentic Italian gelato with fresh toppings, frozen yogurt, homemade cookies and more.

● The Vintage Room: Offers intimate guided pairings and dinners highlighting the vast selection of wines in the ship’s onboard cellar.

● Tastes Kitchen & Bar: Globally inspired cuisine and casual “family style” dining experience, Tastes offers tapas-style cuisine for guests to enjoy on their own or with newfound friends.

● Marketplace: A buffet-style dining venue wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows and a chic open-air dining area.

Wellness

In addition to now offering a full-sized paddle tennis and pickleball court and a revamped fitness center, Crystal’s new spa concept, Aurōra offers a completely fresh design. Aurōra boasts light-bright neutral colors, an illuminated fiber optic starlight ceiling and organic materials like natural salt crystal and silk-brushed slate stone. The extensive treatment offerings include more signature facials, massage treatments and a full-service Salon. Highlights include:

● The SuperTech Facial uses advanced technologies to meet your individual needs and targets multiple signs of aging to resurface, firm and smooth.

● The Chariot of Light Massage resets the circadian rhythm, reduces inflammation, increases circulation and improves the texture of skin with the therapeutic benefits of LightStim® Pro-Panel LED light therapy.

● Grown Alchemist Restoration Shave offers an enzyme exfoliation, deep cleansing mask, and hot towel compress for an expert shave.

In addition to Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity being back in service, Crystal recently announced the brand is currently working with advisors, lenders and export credit agents to sign a memorandum of agreement with two European shipbuilders. The agreement is poised to include the development of four new ships in the next six years including two classic ships and two expedition vessels.

Book an exceptional Crystal itinerary by contacting your travel advisor, visiting https://www.crystalcruises.com or calling 1-800-446-6620.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE OPENS MORE SAILINGS IN 2025 WITH ITINERARIES AVAILABLE FOR ALASKA FROM SEATTLE AND NEW CARNIVAL JOURNEYS CRUISES

Carnival is unveiling more of its 2025-26 deployment by opening sailings to Alaska from Seattle

New Options Now Available Aboard Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa, As Carnival Journeys Program Continues to Expand

SEATTLE, Aug. 24, 2023 – It’s never too early to plan for an incredible Alaskan adventure, and today, Carnival Cruise Line is unveiling more of its 2025-26 deployment by opening sailings to Alaska from Seattle on two ships: Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa. Several Carnival Journeys cruises aboard the two ships are also opening for sale, including a transatlantic sailing from Barcelona, Spain to Miami and a 29-day transpacific voyage from Brisbane, Australia to Seattle that features several stops in Japan.

“The wildlife, well-preserved natural wonder, the incredible experiences on shore and the welcoming locals are just some of the reasons why Alaska cruises are so popular with guests, and also why they tend to book quickly,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “These two ships will also build on our popular Carnival Journeys program, making more truly bucket-list destinations available on opposite sides of the world – with Carnival Luminosa’s amazing 29-day transpacific voyage visiting Japan and Carnival Spirit’s two cruises ahead of Alaska season, which will take the ship from Barcelona to Miami and then from Miami to San Francisco.”

The following is a sampling of the new offerings available beginning in April 2025:

Carnival Luminosa

Alaska Sailings

Seven-day Alaska sailings departing every Thursday on Carnival Luminosa begin on May 1, 2025 and continue through Sept. 11, 2025. After departing Seattle, the ship cruises Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia.

Carnival Journeys

Ahead of its Alaska season, Carnival Luminosa will depart Brisbane, Australia on April 3, 2025 on a 29-day transpacific sailing to Seattle, with several unique visits in between. The spectacular destinations guests will visit include Okinawa, Hiroshima, Tokyo, Hakodate and Kushiro in Japan, as well as Anchorage, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. To see all sailings available aboard Carnival Luminosa, click here.

Carnival Spirit

Alaska Sailings

The Alaska season on board Carnival Spirit offers 21 week-long sailings that depart Seattle and cruise Tracy Arm Fjord and stop in ports Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. The sailings begin April 14, 2025 and continue through the summer, with the final departure on Sept. 9, 2025. The ship will also sail an eight-day cruise departing May 5, 2025 that adds Icy Strait Point as a port of call.

Carnival Journeys

Ahead of its Alaska season, Carnival Spirit will offer two Carnival Journeys cruises. The first is a 14-day transatlantic cruise that departs March 16, 2025 from Barcelona and arrives in Miami, with visits in Malaga and Cadiz, Spain, as well Ponta Delgada, Azores and Bermuda. The second is a 15-day Journeys cruise from Miami to Seattle, departing March 30, 2025, transiting the Panama Canal and visiting Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Carnival Spirit will conclude the Alaska season with a 10-day roundtrip Carnival Journeys Alaska cruise that departs Seattle on Sept. 16, 2025 and visits seven destinations, including Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia.

Following her Alaska season, Carnival Spirit will set sail on a unique 15-day roundtrip Carnival Journeys cruise to Hawaii from Seattle. Departing Sept. 26, 2025 and visiting Honolulu, Oahu; Kahului, Maui; Nawiliwili, Kauai; and Hilo in Hawaii, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. The ship will also sail from Seattle to New Orleans, on a 16-day Panama Canal cruise that departs Oct. 11, 2025. The itinerary includes visits to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and Puntarenas, Costa Rica, then transits the Panama Canal and stops in Cartagena, Colombia as well. To see all sailings available aboard Carnival Spirit, click here.

The new Carnival Journeys cruises build on an already expanding program, in response to travelers’ increased interest in longer vacations and more adventurous experiences. The Carnival Journeys program of longer cruise itineraries offers guests more opportunities to see the world, from ocean crossings and Panama Canal transits, to special sailings that feature spectacular destinations in the Caribbean, Greenland, Hawaii, New Zealand, Japan, Tahiti, Southeast Asia and Alaska. Since the program launched in 2015, more than 330,000 Carnival guests have sailed on a Carnival Journeys cruise. That number is growing significantly as the program now offers more variety than ever before – with more than 85 upcoming and available cruises sailing more than 230,000 guests from now through 2025.

Additional 2025-26 deployment details will be announced soon, with more itineraries becoming available in the coming weeks.

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

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Our in-depth review of Carnival Mardi Gras

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE ANNOUNCES DUO WHO WILL LEAD TEXAS-SIZED FUN ABOARD ALL-NEW CARNIVAL JUBILEE

Carnival Names Kyndall “Fire” Magyar New Ship’s Cruise Director and Matthew Boyd to Serve as Entertainment Director

MIAMI, Aug. 23, 2023 – As excitement builds around the arrival of Carnival Cruise Line’s next new ship, Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line today announced Matthew Boyd will serve as Entertainment Director and Kyndall “Fire” Magyar as Cruise Director for the ship’s inaugural season. Together, the two will lead the teams that deliver all the fun guests will find aboard the new ship when it begins sailing on Dec. 23, 2023 from its homeport of Galveston, Tex.

“Watching their dedication come to life on board Carnival Jubilee’s sister ships, I know Kyndall and Matthew are perfectly suited to deliver Texas-sized fun that maximizes the capabilities of this spectacular new ship and upholds our high standards for entertainment,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment.

Both Magyar and Boyd are accomplished leaders who bring a combined 20 years of Carnival experience to the teams they will lead.

Magyar is a Texas native who has been working on Carnival ships since 2016. She most recently served as cruise director aboard Mardi Gras. She was also part of the inaugural team for Carnival Horizon and served as the cruise director of Carnival Vista when the ship returned to service in 2021. She is elated to be part of the inaugural Carnival Jubilee family and bring her home to Texas.

Boyd was recently named Carnival’s 2023 Entertainment Director of the year. He has been part of the Carnival family since 2010 and has served as an entertainment director aboard several ships since 2018. He most recently led the entertainment team aboard Carnival Celebration. He is honored to be the inaugural Entertainment Director of Carnival Jubilee and excited to present guests with all the new entertainment offerings being developed for the new ship.

Carnival Jubilee joins her sisters Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras as the third ship in the fleet powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system. Carnival Jubilee will debut unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones, Currents and The Shores. Carnival Jubilee will be home to other features already popular on board her sister ships, like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster and a transformational three-deck atrium that offers expansive views during the day and doubles as an entertainment venue at night with movable LED screens and theatrical lighting.

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

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Our in-depth review of Carnival Mardi Gras

GETTING READY TO THRILL: CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE’S NEXT ROLLER COASTER AT SEA

More Than 150,000 Carnival Guests Have Experienced BOLT

MIAMI, Aug. 16, 2023 – In celebration of National Roller Coaster Day, Carnival Cruise Line is preparing to welcome its third BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster as it takes shape atop its next new ship Carnival Jubilee. This week, at Meyer Werft in Germany where the ship is under construction, the roller coaster’s 800-foot track is being installed on Deck 19. The installation is expected to be complete next month and test runs are scheduled for October. Once complete, the track will carry two all-electric, two-person cars. The riders control the speed of the car, up to 40 miles per hour, through drops, twists and turns 187 feet above the water line.

BOLT is the centerpiece of the fun-filled Ultimate Playground on Carnival’s three Excel-class ships, and its already proven extremely popular on the first two. More than 150,000 guests have experienced the exhilaration of riding the only roller coasters at sea on Carnival Jubilee’s sister ships Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration.

BOLT is manufactured by Maurer Rides in Munich, Germany and its initial iteration became the first roller coaster at sea in 2021 with the debut of Mardi Gras. It has received rave reviews and several accolades, including an engineering award from Popular Science magazine.

Beginning Dec. 23, 2023, Carnival Jubilee will operate year-round from Galveston, Tex., sailing week-long Western Caribbean voyages and visiting popular destinations such as Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.

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

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Our in-depth review of Carnival Mardi Gras

Magic, Wonder, Illusion on Tap for First-Ever Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise in Exclusive Partnership with World-Famous Magic Castle™ on Discovery Princess October 7-14, 2023

Week-Long Adventure to Feature Jaw-Dropping Performances, Elite Magicians, Unique Experiences and More

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 14, 2023) – Princess Cruises today revealed the first-ever Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise, a week-long, magic filled experience with mind-blowing wonder aboard Discovery Princess October 7-14, 2023.

Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise brings together two California icons – Princess Cruises, which made cruising a household name as the ocean-going co-star of the iconic Love Boat TV series, and Hollywood’s world-famous Magic Castle™, known for 60 years as the mecca of magic and the legendary home to the Academy of Magical Arts.

The Magic Castle™ has championed the art of magic and cultivated the careers of magicians and illusionists worldwide for over six decades. The exclusive Magic Castle™ Victorian mansion in the Hollywood hills is a private clubhouse, accessible only by members and their guests. A typical evening – if there even is such a thing – features an array of magic from close-up performances to full stage illusion shows in its many showrooms. Attendees are surrounded by rare memorabilia, magnificent posters, unique bars - each with its own personality and a gorgeous multi-room dining area.

Now, for the first time ever, Princess Cruises is partnering with The Magic Castle™ to lift the veil of this iconic establishment by bringing the Magic Castle™ mission to the sea and expanding the audience of this unique experience. This specially themed, seven-day cruise sails roundtrip from Los Angeles, with day-long stops at three popular coastal California destinations, including San Francisco and San Diego, as well as Ensenada, Mexico.

Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise will feature a host of magic-themed events and activities, including:

• Performances by top magicians in the Princess Theater and throughout the ship including popular areas like the Piazza

• Magic workshops and lectures for the curious

• Fun events like a “Taste of Magic” offering refreshing magic-inspired cocktails and libations, and a “Magic of Cooking” demonstration

• Interesting artifacts from Magic Castle’s™ collection on display

• Magic Castle™-themed cocktail parties, dinners and brunches

• Specially themed films on the giant outdoor Movies Under the Stars

• A specially curated historical presentation with the founding family of the Magic Castle™ to hear firsthand how this establishment came to be and what continues to make it so beloved today

“With this inaugural Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise, for the first time, Magic Castle™ Enterprises will offer elements of the Magic Castle™ experience outside the walls of our members-only establishment,” said Erika Larsen, president of Magic Castle™ Enterprises. “The cruise will be a true celebration of the magical arts, connecting magicians from our acclaimed community with enthusiasts who are fascinated by this mysterious world. We look forward to sharing the magic as we sail upon the stunning Discovery Princess, making our way along our gorgeous, and native, California coast.”

The newest ship in Princess fleet, Discovery Princess offers an array of guest-pleasing features, from delicious dining options and a luxurious spa to lavish entertainment and expansive teak-planked decks perfect for sunning and relaxing. While ashore, Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise participants can visit world-renowned wineries, explore interesting historical sites, natural landmarks and marvel at stunning Pacific seascapes.

Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise promises a magical time for all. Fans are encouraged to reserve their spot before it disappears.

To sign up for this captivating vacation experience, call 1-888-819-0310 or visit http://magiccastle.medallionclassmarket.com.

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Our review of Discovery Princess

CELEBRITY CRUISES CONTINUES CARIBBEAN EXPANSION WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW ITINERARIES BRINGING FOUR SHIPS TO THREE FLORIDA PORTS

• Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Summit expand offerings out of South Florida’s Port Everglades

• More opportunities than ever before to experience Perfect Day at CocoCay

• For the first time, Celebrity Equinox will offer 7-night cruises out of Port Canaveral

• Celebrity Constellation to offer more frequent 7-night cruises out of Port Tampa Bay

MIAMI (August 15, 2023) –Celebrity Cruises, the award-winning premium cruise line pioneering resort travel at sea, is thrilled to unveil all-new Caribbean offerings for the Winter 2024-2025 season on board four stellar ships – Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit. Embarking from three Florida ports: Central Florida’s Port Canaveral, West Florida’s Port Tampa Bay, and South Florida’s Port Everglades, travelers will enjoy more than 40 new itineraries, all open for booking on August 22, 2023. Catering to the diverse needs of today’s consumer, the new program offers a wide range of experiences, from rejuvenating quick getaways to weekly 7-night cruises, and up to 9-night escapes. Transporting guests to tropical hotspots from Belize and Bimini to Grand Cayman and San Juan, a select number of itineraries also offer the opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.

“We are so excited to unveil this new program. It provides our guests with more options to experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean, which is elevated by our personalized experiences on board,” says Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “As part of this expansion, we are thrilled to add Port Canaveral to our list of home ports – it is a perfect market to reach a wide mix of both in- and out-of-state travelers looking for fun in the Caribbean sun.”

More Opportunities to Sail from South Florida and Visit Perfect Day at CocoCay

As part of the new program, Celebrity will expand its offerings from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, to include more opportunities to set sail on two award-winning ships: Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Summit. From October 23, 2024, to March 8, 2025, travelers can enjoy five new sailings on Apex, ranging from 6- to 7-night itineraries visiting destinations like St. Maarten, San Juan, Grand Cayman, and Mexico, as well as select sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A vibrant private island paradise nestled in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers the best of beach-side bliss and sun-soaked excitement. With something for everyone, guests can enjoy miles of pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, take a dip in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and swim up to the bar for a refreshing tropical cocktail. Plus, guests can experience the ultimate in relaxation and privacy at Coco Beach Club that features a heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, 20 exclusive overwater cabanas, and more. Debuting in January 2024, Perfect Day at CocoCay will introduce Hideaway Beach – an adults-only paradise, with private cabanas and a new signature food outlet.

Additionally, from February 25, 2025, to April 10, 2025, Summit will offer five new itineraries ranging from 5- to 9-night across the Western and Eastern Caribbean.

“As one of Celebrity Cruises’ homeports, we are excited about the new sailings on Apex and Summit. In addition to the line’s ‘resort at sea’ experience, their cruise guests can expect to experience unrivalled customer service and ease of sailing at Port Everglades,” said Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Jonathan Daniels.

Celebrity Comes to Port Canaveral

For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises will sail out of Orlando’s Port Canaveral with 20 new itineraries, from November 21, 2024, to April 19, 2025, on board the intimate Celebrity Equinox. With most itineraries spanning 7-nights, travelers will have the opportunity to visit highly sought-after Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico, San Juan, and St. Maarten. Just in time for the Spring Break season, two sailings on March 1st and March 15th, 2025, will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.

"We are thrilled to welcome Celebrity Cruises as our new partner and honored to be part of their Caribbean expansion plans,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “The demand for Celebrity Cruise sailings from our Port has been growing. Now, with Celebrity Equinox homeported here, there are great opportunities for even more cruise travelers to experience the cruise line’s high-quality experience, while experiencing the comfort and ease of travel provided by our Port.

Refreshed Caribbean Offerings from Port Tampa Bay

Celebrity Cruises will revamp its current Caribbean program out of Port Tampa Bay. Guests can now enjoy more frequent opportunities to set sail with 6- to 7-night cruises on board Celebrity Constellation. The new program expands the brand’s offerings with four new itineraries and a total of 14 sailings for the season from January 2, 2025, to April 6, 2025. These itineraries will visit destinations like Belize, Honduras, Key West, Mexico, and New Orleans during Mardi Gras, scheduled for March 1, 2025.

“There has never been a better time to sail Celebrity Cruises from Port Tampa Bay. We are excited for Celebrity’s new offerings and our continued successful partnership,” said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO. “Celebrity Constellation is a beautiful ship that provides travelers with an unforgettable cruise experience, all the while being located just steps from Tampa’s top attractions.”

For more information on Celebrity Cruises, or to book a Celebrity cruise, visit www.celebrity.com.

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Our in-depth review of Celebrity Beyond

SILVERSEA®’S SILVER NOVA℠ DEPARTS ON HER MAIDEN VOYAGE

Marking a new take on luxury at sea for the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, Silver Nova sails out of Fusina (Venice) on August 14

Barbara Muckermann introduces Silver Nova

(Miami – August 14, 2023) The first Nova-class ship for Silversea®, Silver Nova℠, embarks on her maiden voyage on August 14, departing Venice, Italy. Sailing on a seven-day roundtrip voyage through the Adriatic, Silver Nova will call in Piran, Slovenia; Zadar, Dubrovnik, Split, and Rovinj in Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro. One of the most environmentally conscious ultra-luxury cruise ships ever built, Silver Nova is Silversea’s 12th ship and the first to launch this year for Royal Caribbean Group® (NYSE: RCL), becoming the 64th ship in its global fleet. Prior to her departure, executives from Royal Caribbean Group and Silversea hosted a three-day architectural preview for select travel partners and members of the press, sailing roundtrip from Venice.

“Silver Nova revolutionizes ultra-luxury cruising and sets the new category standard,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “From her innovative horizontal design to her emphasis on sustainable operations, Silver Nova speaks to Royal Caribbean Group’s commitment to deliver the world’s best vacations, responsibly.”

“It was incredibly emotional to welcome guests aboard Silver Nova ahead of her maiden voyage,” said Barbara Muckermann, president, Silversea Cruises. “Benefiting from an innovative asymmetrical design, she immerses guests into the destination at every turn — a strong expression of our brand mission. As one of the most spacious ships at sea, and with the broadest array of bars, lounges, and restaurants in ultra-luxury cruise travel, Silver Nova elevates the experience for our guests like never before. I would like to thank Jason Liberty, and all involved at Silversea, Royal Caribbean Group, and Meyer Werft. A special thank you to the Royal Caribbean Group Newbuild team, without whom this would not have been possible, and to Silver Nova’s amazing crew, led by Captain Mino Pontillo, for their precious support in launching this game-changing ship.”

AN ENTIRELY NEW TAKE ON LUXURY AT SEA

Silver Nova introduces an entirely new take on luxury at sea. Her innovative design, which prizes openness over symmetry and incorporates an unprecedented use of approximately 4,000m2 of glass, immerses guests into the destination from virtually all venues and suites, with far-reaching views at every turn. Her reimagined pool deck, which overlooks the water on her starboard side, and all-new outdoor venues — the Dusk Bar and the Marquee — best exemplify her unique openness to the destination.

One of the most spacious cruise ships ever built, Silver Nova has a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-guest — the highest in Silversea’s fleet. She offers one of the most personalized levels of service at sea with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3, including butler service for all suites. Silver Nova hosts up to 728 guests in 13 different suite categories — the largest variety of suites in Silversea’s history, and among the most spacious accommodations of any cruise ship. Every suite offers guests the use of a private veranda. The largest option is the new 123m2 (1,324ft2) Otium Suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing 270-degree views from the ship’s premium aft-corner position. It also features a 40m2 (431ft2) balcony with its own whirlpool.

Further enriching the on-board experience are the largest selection of bars, restaurants, and lounges in ultra-luxury cruising; Otium, the cruise line’s Roman-inspired wellness program, complete with all-new enhancements; and its innovative culinary program, Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.), which comprises an on-board ecosystem of culinary discovery, immersive excursions ashore, food lectures, hands-on culinary experiences, and more.

Following her maiden voyage, Silver Nova will spend the summer in the Mediterranean before heading to the Caribbean and South America in November. On January 4, 2024, she will embark on the 71-day Grand Voyage South America, visiting 38 destinations in 18 countries.

Silver Nova’s sister ship, Silver Ray℠, is scheduled to launch in summer 2024.

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon

SILVERSEA® REVEALS LINE-UP OF SENIOR OFFICERS FOR SILVER NOVA’S MAIDEN VOYAGE

Sailing roundtrip from Venice from August 14, the 12th ship in Silversea’s fleet is set to introduce an entirely new take on luxury at sea

(Miami – August 10, 2023) Silversea Cruises®, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has named its line-up of experienced senior officers for the maiden voyage of its new ship Silver Nova℠—one of the most environmentally conscious ultra-luxury cruise ships ever built. Silver Nova will depart on her maiden voyage on August 14, sailing roundtrip from Venice, taking in many of the Adriatic’s most iconic destinations over seven days, including Piran in Slovenia; Zadar, Dubrovnik, Split, and Rovinj in Croatia; and Kotor in Montenegro. As well as representing an important milestone on Royal Caribbean Group’s journey to Destination Net Zero, Silver Nova and future Nova-class ships are set to introduce an unparalleled openness to the world and an entirely new take on luxury at sea.

“I am incredibly proud to take the helm of Silver Nova for her maiden voyage,” said Captain Cosimo Pontillo, Master of Silver Nova. “Having been with Silversea Cruises for almost 30 years, I have witnessed the evolution of the fleet first-hand. Silver Nova represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury cruise travel and I am excited to welcome our guests aboard to experience her many innovations. I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this important milestone and give thanks to Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s President, for bestowing this honor upon me, as well as my colleagues at Silversea Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group for their precious collaboration in launching this beautiful ship.”

CAPTAIN COSIMO PONTILLO – Master

Captain Cosimo Pontillo, also known as Mino, was born in Scilla, a small Italian village on the Messina Straits. Pontillo graduated from the Messina Nautical High School in 1983, subsequently working aboard frigates in the Navy for one year and studying submarine rescue techniques for 6 months. After his time in the Navy, Pontillo began his career as a deck cadet on different cargo vessels around the world. He quickly obtained his Masters License and moved to the cruise industry, working with various cruise lines until 1994, when he joined Silversea Cruises for the launches of Silver Cloud® and Silver Wind®, working his way through the ranks to become Staff Captain. From 2000, Captain Pontillo spent six years working as a pilot in Messina, subsequently returning to Silversea, being promoted to the rank of Captain. Pontillo has taken the helm of most ships in the Silversea fleet, including various expedition vessels. After completing the Northwest Passage, Pontillo joined the newbuilding team for the launch of Silver Nova, following the project from the beginning with a wealth of experience and technical knowledge.

LESTER WOODFALL – Hotel Director

Lester Woodfall was born and raised in Southern India. On graduating from hotel school and completing his apprenticeship in luxury hotels in India, Woodfall moved his sights further afield, working in various five-star hotels in the Arabian Gulf. His international career began in luxury hotels in Bahrain, after which he moved to the United Arab Emirates, where he worked at a number of five-star resorts, before aspiring to a career at sea. Woodfall joined the cruise industry in 2001, working his way up through the ranks to become Food & Beverage Manager. He is now proud to be aboard Silver Nova as Hotel Director for her maiden season, using his knowledge and experience to lead the Hotel team, which spans various departments, from food & beverage to housekeeping, shore excursions, and entertainment. Woodfall looks forward to meeting all guests during the maiden voyage and throughout Silver Nova’s inaugural season.

VICKI VAN TASSEL – Cruise Director

After an illustrious and extensive career in show business—spanning from Broadway, national and international tours, and television shows to motion capture work, commercials, and stand-up comedy—Vicki Van Tassel started her career at sea with Silversea in 2011, performing as a vocalist on three World Cruises and many Grand Voyages, learning from some of the best in the business. In 2015, she joined Silversea as a Cruise Director. Since then, Van Tassel has held the position of Cruise Director on almost every ship in Silversea’s fleet, proudly opening Silver Moon℠ and Silver Dawn℠, as well as hosting guests on the World Cruise 2023. Now, with the greatest sense of “honor and pride,” Van Tassel assumes the role of Cruise Director for the opening of Silver Nova, and looks forward to welcoming guests aboard the cruise line’s latest ship.

Other senior officers who will be aboard Silver Nova for her maiden voyage include Staff Captain, Jorge Rodriguez Ferreira; Chief Engineer, Rosario Costagliola; Executive Chef, Rohit Dimri; and Guest Relations Manager, Sascha Strack.

Find out more information about Silver Nova and view her scheduled voyages:

https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-nova.html

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Our review of Silversea Silver Moon