--
-- Host: localhost    Database: cruisecr_news
-- ------------------------------------------------------


--
-- Current Database: `cruisecr_news`
--

CREATE DATABASE /*!32312 IF NOT EXISTS*/ `cruisecr_news` /*!40100 DEFAULT CHARACTER SET latin1 */;

USE `cruisecr_news`;

--
-- Table structure for table `ArticleAttachments`
--

CREATE TABLE `ArticleAttachments` (
  `id` int(11) NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `article_id` int(11) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  `real_path` varchar(255) CHARACTER SET latin1 NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `title` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `description` text COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci,
  `order_number` int(11) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  PRIMARY KEY (`id`)
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=2 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_unicode_ci COMMENT='Article Attachments';

--
-- Dumping data for table `ArticleAttachments`
--

INSERT INTO `ArticleAttachments` VALUES (1,1734,'/carnivaldreamstthomas12_675537968.jpg',NULL,NULL,1);

--
-- Table structure for table `ArticleImages`
--

CREATE TABLE `ArticleImages` (
  `id` int(11) NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `article_id` int(11) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  `real_path` varchar(255) CHARACTER SET latin1 NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `title` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `description` text COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci,
  `order_number` int(11) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  PRIMARY KEY (`id`)
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=17 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_unicode_ci COMMENT='Article Images';

--
-- Dumping data for table `ArticleImages`
--

INSERT INTO `ArticleImages` VALUES (1,1704,'/149806_831059098.jpg',NULL,NULL,1),(2,1704,'/royal_court_theater_584184009.jpg',NULL,NULL,2),(3,1713,'/3_767255830.jpg',NULL,NULL,3),(4,1713,'/6_108143706.jpg',NULL,NULL,4),(5,1713,'/5_427133772.jpg',NULL,NULL,5),(6,1713,'/1_473693968.jpg',NULL,NULL,6),(7,1713,'/2_327031941.jpg',NULL,NULL,7),(8,1714,'/6a00d83451b46269e201287594aeab970c_293969489.jpg',NULL,NULL,8),(9,1715,'/capt_0f769f11eae74d4e80dc6ffaae5f4e8c_royal_caribbean_oasis_fllau101_508878741.jpg',NULL,NULL,9),(10,1715,'/capt_fc4282ae47a24b94a6c9c17dfe15c8bb_pr_newswire_prn8_195122747.jpg',NULL,NULL,10),(11,1715,'/capt_photo_1258146045805_1_0_132306096.jpg',NULL,NULL,11),(12,1715,'/r2344710373_444123386.jpg',NULL,NULL,12),(13,1715,'/r3579961269_997891124.jpg',NULL,NULL,13),(14,1715,'/r3597530394_805105832.jpg',NULL,NULL,14),(15,1715,'/r3661632710_412957943.jpg',NULL,NULL,15);

--
-- Table structure for table `Articles`
--

CREATE TABLE `Articles` (
  `id` int(6) NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `category_id` int(6) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  `user_id` int(11) DEFAULT NULL,
  `user_domain` varchar(255) CHARACTER SET latin1 DEFAULT 'vivvo@localhost',
  `author` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `title` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `image` varchar(255) CHARACTER SET latin1 DEFAULT NULL,
  `created` datetime NOT NULL DEFAULT '0000-00-00 00:00:00',
  `body` text COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci,
  `last_read` datetime DEFAULT NULL,
  `times_read` int(6) DEFAULT '0',
  `today_read` int(6) DEFAULT '0',
  `status` int(3) NOT NULL DEFAULT '0',
  `sefriendly` varchar(64) CHARACTER SET latin1 DEFAULT NULL,
  `link` varchar(255) CHARACTER SET latin1 DEFAULT NULL,
  `order_num` int(6) DEFAULT NULL,
  `show_poll` enum('0','1') COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT '1',
  `show_comment` enum('0','1') COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT '1',
  `rss_feed` enum('0','1') COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT '1',
  `keywords` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `description` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `emailed` int(11) DEFAULT '0',
  `vote_num` int(11) DEFAULT '0',
  `vote_sum` int(11) DEFAULT '0',
  `abstract` text COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci,
  `image_caption` varchar(255) COLLATE utf8_unicode_ci DEFAULT NULL,
  `feed_data` varchar(32) CHARACTER SET latin1 DEFAULT NULL,
  `last_edited` datetime NOT NULL DEFAULT '0000-00-00 00:00:00',
  `member_submition` tinyint(4) DEFAULT '0',
  PRIMARY KEY (`id`),
  KEY `status_created_category_id` (`status`,`created`,`category_id`),
  KEY `status_created` (`status`,`created`),
  KEY `status_created_user_id` (`status`,`created`,`user_id`),
  KEY `sefriendly_category_id` (`sefriendly`,`category_id`),
  KEY `status_created_emailed` (`status`,`created`,`emailed`),
  KEY `status_created_today_read` (`status`,`created`,`today_read`),
  KEY `status_created_times_read` (`status`,`created`,`times_read`),
  KEY `order_num` (`order_num`),
  KEY `feed_data_id_idx` (`feed_data`),
  FULLTEXT KEY `title_body` (`title`,`body`,`abstract`),
  FULLTEXT KEY `title_abstract` (`title`,`abstract`)
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=1907 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_unicode_ci;

--
-- Dumping data for table `Articles`
--

INSERT INTO `Articles` VALUES (331,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','MSC Cruise ships to proudly display logo',NULL,'2008-04-18 11:00:00','<div align=\"justify\"><a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi4TMz20II/AAAAAAAAAG4/RuocqiYkrqI/s1600-h/msc.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi4TMz20II/AAAAAAAAAG4/RuocqiYkrqI/s200/msc.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a>MSC Armonia based in Brazil this winter and MSC Lirica operating from Fort Lauderdale, Florida are the first ships in the MSC fleet to have the company logo painted on their sides. The remainder of the fleet are to have the logo completed by the end of the season.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />The MSC logo is to ensure instant recognition at the ports visited by the ships, with the logo proudly displayed on the hull side of the ship.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />The compass logo was created by <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/msc_cruises.phtml\">MSC Cruises</a> in 2004 and symbolises the diversity of the horizons reached by the ships in the fleet. The MSC acronym in the centre of the compass represents the guest at the centre of the MSC Cruises world. </div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />MSC cruise ships offer impeccable service, warm hospitality, world renowned gastronomy, exciting design features in the cabins and public places with a real sense of comfort. MSC are a major cruise line in the international cruise market, offering guests the chance to cruise on ships with technologically advanced systems and with a distinct Italian elegance throughout the modern fleet.</div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=NlDZoXG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=NlDZoXG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=GfEL0eg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=GfEL0eg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=TjUoztg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=TjUoztg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=WDIxEng\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=WDIxEng\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/272953159\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'msc_cruise_ships_to_proudly','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/272953159/msc-cruise-ships-to-proudly-display.html',47,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'84bbeeaf1e80b790b10181e9667958c2','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(330,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Celebrity Cruises short Caribbean Winter breaks',NULL,'2008-04-18 11:12:00','<div align=\"justify\"><a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi7osz20KI/AAAAAAAAAHM/bPvv8AiloUw/s1600-h/caribbean.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi7osz20KI/AAAAAAAAAHM/bPvv8AiloUw/s320/caribbean.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/celebrity_cruises.phtml\">Celebrity Cruises</a> 2009-2010 winter schedule will feature four and five night Caribbean sailings, which will be the perfect getaway for guests wanting to experience the line’s signature service and the incredible sunsets of the Caribbean.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />There will be a series of three sailings in the winter Caribbean season on the recently refurbished Celebrity Century. Each itinerary features two ports of call; these include Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Key West, Florida. </div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Once in port there are a variety of shore and land excursions to delight guests, including \"Temazcal Mayan Steamlodge Experience\" in Cozumel, which includes a shaman-guided ritual reflective of those that the ancient Mexicans would perform; \"Chukka Ultimate Adventure\" in Ocho Rios, which offers a horseback ride along the White River, river innertubing, a Jamaican lunch and a hike; or \"Taste of Key West,\" a guided walking tour through the town’s colourful gardens and historic buildings, with delectable treats included.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />There have been a number of enhancements on board Celebrity Century as part of a $55 million makeover in 2006. The 1,814 guest ship now has the addition of 314 new verandas, 14 new suites, 1 new staterooms ranging from inside to veranda categories and an expanded number of Concierge Class category staterooms. </div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Celebrity have also expanded the AquaSpa, added speciality restaurant Murano, refurbished the main dining room, created the first ice bar at sea and enhanced the bedding in staterooms.</div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=0OtAm1G\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=0OtAm1G\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=Jn4oDYg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=Jn4oDYg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=efnlYmg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=efnlYmg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=yZHqcNg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=yZHqcNg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/272953158\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-02 19:53:22',2,0,-1,'celebrity_cruises_short_caribbean_winter','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/272953158/celebrity-cruises-short-caribbean.html',46,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,'5dcb5c15360d65083e4b08a96a293e46','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(329,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Thomson Cruises to retire Emerald ship in 2009',NULL,'2008-04-20 06:04:00','<div align=\"justify\"><br /><a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsVpTqcBkI/AAAAAAAAAHU/7Vap3Pvj5-4/s1600-h/emerald.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsVpTqcBkI/AAAAAAAAAHU/7Vap3Pvj5-4/s320/emerald.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/thomson_cruises.phtml\">Thomson</a> has announced that they will be retiring their Emerald ship next year and replacing it with a larger more modern ship in 2010.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Emerald was a popular Thomson ship and it’s loss will leave just four other ships in the fleet, sailing the Greek Islands, the Western Med and also revisiting the Caribbean for the first time in 8 years. Thomson Celebration ship will be taking over the Emeralds itinerary.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Emerald will make her last voyage on 17 October from Corfu to the Greek islands, Turkey, Cyprus, Egypt and Lebanon.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />David Selby, director of cruising for TUI Travel mainstream division, said: \"We have had Thomson Emerald for 11 years and it is as popular as ever, but the longer term strategy is to have more modern, larger vessels.\"</div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=yyC0ubG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=yyC0ubG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=IuWUgrg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=IuWUgrg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=KRN6EFg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=KRN6EFg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=I3jaL5g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=I3jaL5g\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/273999703\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2010-12-19 14:53:09',34,1,-1,'thomson_cruises_to_retire_emerald','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/273999703/thomson-cruises-to-retire-emerald-ship.html',45,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'cf3c99b2c428be84af08ba10d6d55347','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(328,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','P&amp;O Cruises attract younger cruisers',NULL,'2008-04-20 06:15:00','<div align=\"justify\"><br /><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsakDqcBlI/AAAAAAAAAHc/t74rF_WUESk/s1600-h/family.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsakDqcBlI/AAAAAAAAAHc/t74rF_WUESk/s320/family.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/po_cruises.phtml\">P&amp;O Cruises</a> has made a breakthrough in attracting younger passengers to take up one of their cruise voyages it has been reported.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />A report by TravelMole has found that P&amp;O Cruises has tempted a younger clientele to their new ship <a href=\"http://www.po-ventura.co.uk/\">Ventura</a> for cruise holidays in its first season.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Manager Director Nigel Esdale told TravelMole that the average passenger age on the ships for its first season is 44, which is ten years younger than in general for the UK cruise market and three years older than the casual cruise brand Ocean Village.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />It is believed that the drop in average age has come about due to the increase in popularity of family cruises. P&amp;O Cruises have children’s favourite Noddy appearing on board some cruises on <a href=\"http://www.po-ventura.co.uk/\">Ventura</a> and even have a real life circus with trapeze artists on board the new super liner. </div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=CJmPdPG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=CJmPdPG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=h0JCJEg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=h0JCJEg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=RqzzAKg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=RqzzAKg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=VVq0k0g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=VVq0k0g\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274006430\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'p_amp_o_cruises_attract','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274006430/p-cruises-attract-younger-cruisers.html',44,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'1a1d4a7708613f64c03825c4cf20e28a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(327,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Island Cruises to offer Barbadian Weddings',NULL,'2008-04-20 06:38:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsd4DqcBnI/AAAAAAAAAHs/ooyZUfGUUYQ/s1600-h/wedding.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsd4DqcBnI/AAAAAAAAAHs/ooyZUfGUUYQ/s400/wedding.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAsdzDqcBmI/AAAAAAAAAHk/k_QpVj-qZsY/s1600-h/wedding.jpg\"></a><br /><div align=\"justify\">It has been revealed that the most popular destination for overseas wedding nuptials is exotic locations such as the Caribbean islands. There has been a huge growth in the number of people choosing to get married abroad, Carol Richardson, a spokesperson for wedding specialist Confetti, said.</div><br /><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />A number of cruise lines offer the opportunity to be married at sea and now <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/island_cruises.phtml\">Island Cruises</a> are launching a Caribbean weddings programme in Barbados which includes onboard ceremonies, while land-based venues are available at a supplemental cost. Couples wanting to exchange their vows at sea will have the chance to do this whilst combining their wedding with a luxury Caribbean cruise.</div><br /><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br /><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/island_cruises.phtml\">Island Cruises </a>have also recently announced their Mediterranean itinerary for summer 2009, which includes new ports of call in Elba, Calvi, Cannes and Trapani in Sicily. They have also announced a fly-cruise itinerary called Mediterranean Splendour which includes calls to Naples, Civitavecchia, Calvi and Mahon and is aimed at previous customers. </div></div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=xWMFUPG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=xWMFUPG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=ljsr1Eg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=ljsr1Eg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=cggjg4g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=cggjg4g\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=YaUgqPg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=YaUgqPg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274011728\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'island_cruises_to_offer_barbadian','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274011728/island-cruises-to-offer-barbadian.html',43,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'5237fc1ed60a44643cebf97dc22528ea','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(326,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Royal Caribbean Cruises release short list of Godmother candidates',NULL,'2008-04-20 06:49:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAshiDqcBoI/AAAAAAAAAH0/zIwSEeBXgBM/s1600-h/godmother.gif\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAshiDqcBoI/AAAAAAAAAH0/zIwSEeBXgBM/s400/godmother.gif\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div align=\"justify\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/royal_caribbean.phtml\">Royal Caribbean Cruises</a> has released a list of potential godmothers for its newest cruise ship, Independence of the Seas. Royal Caribbean Cruises has a short list of candidates for the role of godmother, the list is comprised of:</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Barbara Natasegara from Cardiff, Elizabeth Hill from Chesterfield in Derbyshire, Madeleine Henry from Southampton and Sue Stones from Bakewell in Derbyshire.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />The cruise line has been searching for a godmother for <a href=\"http://www.blogger.com/independenceofthesea.co.uk\">Independence of the Seas</a> with the emphasis placed on their work with children. Families of the women put their names forward as part of Royal Caribbean’s Search for a Godmother campaign.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />The short-listed women now travel to Turku in Finland for a sneak preview of the ship before returning to the UK for interviews in front of a judging panel featuring Sir Steve Redgrave.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Independence of the Seas is to be launched at Southampton later this month. </div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=bX5NJJG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=bX5NJJG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=tpO51gg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=tpO51gg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=RaJ9oEg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=RaJ9oEg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=Cwed5Sg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=Cwed5Sg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274022734\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_cruises_release_short','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274022734/royal-caribbean-cruises-release-short.html',42,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'370ca89b477a76ec4a6879a11c344b4a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(324,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','MSC Cruises sales go through the roof!',NULL,'2008-04-21 09:47:00','<div>  </div><p><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyd1zqcBqI/AAAAAAAAAIE/dIB0qFJsviw/s1600-h/msc+poesia.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyd1zqcBqI/AAAAAAAAAIE/dIB0qFJsviw/s320/msc+poesia.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Following the successful launch of MSC Poesia, <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/msc_cruises.phtml\">MSC Cruises</a> anticipated new ship, the company have found that sales have more than doubled since the launch.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Feedback from both established and new customers has been outstanding and the MSC Cruises sales team have reported record bookings and enquiries.<span>  </span>The staff have even had to skip lunches to keep up with demand and the MD and Chairman have taken to answering the phones in support.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />A record number of brochure requests have been reported by the marketing department and to cope with the abundance of online enquiries cruise consultants have put all their attention to just responding to web requests in the days following the launch.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />MSC Poesia was christened in <st1:city st=\"on\">Dover</st1:city> on 5 April, in the presence of her godmother Hollywood icon Sophia Loren and their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess Michael of <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Kent</st1:place></st1:country-region> and a whole host of stars, including Andrea Bocelli, KT Tunstall, Annie Mac, Gloria Hunniford, Price Azim and the Italian Ambassador Giancarlo Aragona.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />Claudia Baino, MD for MSC Cruises UK and <st1:country-region st=\"on\">Ireland</st1:country-region> adds: “The launch of MSC Poesia, whilst being a major step, is the first of many in securing a larger share of the <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> market. The astounding sales, combined with the wealth of positive feedback from consumers and agents alike only serve to emphasize the interest and potential which exists for MSC here in the <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>. We are of course absolutely delighted and want to thank agents for their support in bringing MSC Poesia to British shores.”<span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=8NDfo5G\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=8NDfo5G\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=4bpWdWg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=4bpWdWg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=YQD3Dfg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=YQD3Dfg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=KamMr2g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=KamMr2g\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274728395\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-09-29 09:23:44',11,0,-1,'msc_cruises_sales_go_through','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274728395/msc-cruises-sales-go-through-roof.html',40,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'97de5a117b417b2d805f0c97635655c1','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(325,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Thomson and First Choice launch ‘World Care Fund’',NULL,'2008-04-21 09:27:00','<p><a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyXdjqcBpI/AAAAAAAAAH8/MDyzb5Xc9Pw/s1600-h/world+care+fund.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyXdjqcBpI/AAAAAAAAAH8/MDyzb5Xc9Pw/s320/world+care+fund.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/thomson_cruises.phtml\">Thomson</a> and First Choice are joining forces to introduce ‘World Care Fund’.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>    </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />For all Summer 2009 bookings the scheme gives customers the opportunity to donate £1 per adult and fifty pence per child on an opt out basis – a donation that is matched by the company.<span>  </span>First Choice initially launched the scheme in 2007 and has so far raised £1,000,000 for the Travel Foundation and Climate Care.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>    </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />The Travel Foundation organise projects that benefit local environments and communities abroad and Climate Care are one of the <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s leading offsetting providers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>    </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />More than one third of First Choice customers contributed to the scheme in the past 12 months, with the payment automatically being added to the bill.<span>  </span>This is explained to the customer so that they know exactly what the amount is for and it can easily be removed if the customer does not want to contribute.<span>  </span>The opt out scheme is proving to be an excellent system, whilst other industry schemes traditionally only have an uptake of around 15%.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>    </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />Sarah Perry, Sustainable Development Manager, TUI Travel PLC, said: “We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to help combat climate change - Thomson, First Choice and those traveling on their holidays can lead by example and make a genuine difference.<br /></p><p><br />“Our success to date clearly shows that when you introduce an opt-out scheme at an amount that most customers find acceptable, you will get far greater results. If Thomson customers contribute to the fund at the same level we’ve seen with First Choice, once matched, we could be looking at a total of over £2.5 million in donations next year.<br /></p><p><br />“While we know that off-setting and donation schemes cannot work in isolation – which is why the World Care Fund is supported by a robust carbon reduction programme, including fuel efficiency measures, the £2.5 million in is not an insignificant amount.<br /></p><p><br />Our experience with the World Care Fund dispels the myth that sustainability is only for the well-off. When we<span lang=\"EN-GB\"> analysed</span> the contributions that First Choice customers made to the scheme in its first year, we found that young families with children were most likely to contribute – and that less well-off families were more likely to contribute than their more “affluent” counterparts. Therefore, the projected £2.5m we’re looking to raise next year could be exceeded if all of our customers, from all walks of life, contribute towards the new, joint initiative.”</p><p><br /></p><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p></p><div>  </div><p>The Travel Foundation is the first<span> <span lang=\"EN-GB\">organisation</span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\"> </span>of its type in the world and also receives funding from the World Care Fund.<span>  </span>They help to care for the travel destinations that we love to visit and it ensures that local people get a fair share from tourism generated.</p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=Og6mEoG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=Og6mEoG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=HJVxkHg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=HJVxkHg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=4xWb5sg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=4xWb5sg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=vQk1Lng\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=vQk1Lng\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274712630\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 19:10:18',1,0,-1,'thomson_and_first_choice_launch','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274712630/thomson-and-first-choice-launch-world.html',41,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'25028044d0a459e2e9440680f38e9240','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(323,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Introducing P&amp;O Cruises Oceana',NULL,'2008-04-21 10:16:00','<p ><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyi4TqcBrI/AAAAAAAAAIM/YA9ONPSErZY/s1600-h/oceana.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAyi4TqcBrI/AAAAAAAAAIM/YA9ONPSErZY/s320/oceana.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/po_cruises.phtml\">P&amp;O Cruises</a> Oceana has recently undergone a refurbishment and offers something special for both her returning and first time passengers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p ><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />Oceana has an impressive atrium, with glass fronted lifts, sweeping marble staircases and towering palm trees.<span>  </span>There are ten decks of every kind of activity you could wish for, with 12 different places to drink, 7 dining venues, 4 swimming pools, a spa, casino, theatre and even a wedding chapel.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p ><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />It is some of these features, plus every cabin, that has benefited from a fresh new look.<span>  </span>Following the refurbishments cabins now have luxurious Egyptian cotton linen, a Slumberland eight-inch deep ‘Gold Seal’ posture spring mattress, complimentary welcome and pamper packs and tea and coffee making facilities designed by Nick Munro.<span>  </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p ><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br /><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_shipdetails.phtml?shipid=2\">Oceana’s</a> gym also has a new look, with all the latest high-tech exercise machines including the new Cardio Wave, an exercise similar to skiing, it is great fun and suitable for everyone.<span>  </span>There is also the new X-dream, the first indoor fitness product that accurately stimulates the experience of cycling outdoors.<span>  </span></span><span>\'Real feel\' gears, brakes, handlebars, pedals and seat sensors enable each move the rider makes to be accurately portrayed on the virtual reality screen.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p ><span><o:p> </o:p><br />The refurbishment extended to Winners and the Monte Carlo Casino, originally two rooms it is now one, spanning the width of the D deck with an intimate French style jazz feel.<span>  </span>New features include a bandstand, dance floor and video panels showing live sporting events, plus PokerPro, a revolutionary poker table where players view their game via touch screens.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><p><br /></p><p>The second part of <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_shipdetails.phtml?shipid=2\">Oceana\'s</a> refurbishment is planned for September 2008 when Marco Pierre White will take ownership of Café Jardin. Situated on the edge of Winners\' and the Monte Carlo Casino, the French style jazz feel will flow through into this 24 hour dining venue, ideally located for a quick afternoon snack or intimate evening meal.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></p><div>  </div><p face=\"georgia\"><span><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=csu0EFG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=csu0EFG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=WeBgRsg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=WeBgRsg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=HBHmLMg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=HBHmLMg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=Qi83SOg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=Qi83SOg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/274737951\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 20:54:50',1,0,-1,'introducing_p_amp_o_cruises','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/274737951/introducing-p-cruises-oceana.html',39,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'279c821508b433bad7664286b6e5202b','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(322,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Silversea Cruises Renews Agreement with Relais &amp; Châteaux',NULL,'2008-04-22 06:28:00','<p><o:p></o:p><a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA2_cU8WI7I/AAAAAAAAAIU/ayVE3cFy5jQ/s1600-h/dining+room.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA2_cU8WI7I/AAAAAAAAAIU/ayVE3cFy5jQ/s320/dining+room.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_searchresults.phtml?region=&amp;cruiseline=25\">Silversea Cruises</a>, the super luxurious cruise line, have announced that they will be renewing its culinary and marketing partnership with Relais &amp; Chateaux throughout 2009, the prestigious international association of boutique hotels and fine dining restaurants.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />The partnership is now in its eight year and will be highlighted by the creation of new signature dishes for La Collection du Monde, a sampling of specialty dishes featured regularly on all Siversea cruises.<span>  </span>The sampling of specialty dishes is a collaboration of Jacques Thorel, Grand Chef Relais &amp; Châteaux of L\'Auberge Bretonne (La Roche-Bernard, Brittany) and Silversea\'s own master chefs.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />There will be a number of other enhancements such as new wine-inspired menus for Silversea’s Wine Restaurant by Relais &amp; Chateaux and the development of programs to ensure the highest quality gourmet dining experience for guests.<span>  </span>In addition both of the companies will be working together to design a range of unique shore excursions that will have a culinary and wine focus.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />The Culinary Arts program is the foundation stone of the alliance and is the perfect opportunity for Relais &amp; Chateaux to showcase the culinary talents of their Grand Chefs.<span>  </span>Informative and entertaining cooking demonstrations will be hosted by the Relais &amp; Chateaux guest chefs and in addition the enriched Culinary Arts voyages will feature trips to international marls, food and wine pairings, creative regional dishes and a five-course grand gourmet dinner.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />\"We are very pleased with our Relais &amp; Châteaux alliance,\" said Silversea president and CEO Amerigo Perasso. \"Our two organizations share a passion for quality and excellence achieved through exacting standards and this partnership allows us to work together to create new and innovative programs that will further enhance the cruise and dining experience for our guests.\"<br /></p><p><br />For Jacques-Olivier Chauvin, CEO of Relais &amp; Châteaux, \"Our partnership with Silversea continues to be an excellent arrangement for us as both organizations are strongly committed to presenting a level of luxury, charm and hospitality that is unsurpassed.  We look forward to continuing to work together.\"<br /></p><p><br />Relais &amp; Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 475 of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 55 countries. Established in <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">France</st1:place></st1:country-region> in 1954, the Association\'s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.</p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=ibvWx1G\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=ibvWx1G\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=EStoTQg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=EStoTQg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=s9nXE2g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=s9nXE2g\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=UpFHeKg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=UpFHeKg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/275314006\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 20:55:30',1,0,-1,'silversea_cruises_renews_agreement_with','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/275314006/silversea-cruises-renews-agreement-with.html',38,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'3d6a078ac2e7368a8b2d3f7aacbbf767','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(505,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Experiencing Dramatic Increase on On-Line Shore Excursion Sales','horse_775336561.jpg','2008-05-13 21:28:00','<div class=\"ar\">MIAMI/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Reaffirming the ease, convenience and sophistication of its comprehensive Web-based shore excursion reservations system, Carnival Cruise Lines is experiencing a 16 percent year-over-year increase in on-line shore excursion sales and expects that a record one million shore excursion tickets will be purchased via carnival.com in 2008. <p>And with the debut of the Carnival Splendor from Europe in July, Carnival will offer an unprecedented 1,982 shore excursion choices in 114 ports visited by its 22-vessel fleet. According to Carnival\'s Vice President of Tour Operations Mico Cascais, on-line shore excursion sales have increased for all &quot;Fun Ship&quot; sailing regions, primarily in conjunction with Caribbean cruises, where Carnival is the industry leader, with 18 of its 22 ships deployed within the region on a year-round or seasonal basis. Europe is popular as well, particularly with tours that visit historic attractions and museums. Other growth areas include the Mexican Rivera, Alaska, and Hawaii. </p><p>&quot;Booking shore excursions on-line prior to sailing is not only incredibly convenient, it also offers guests a better chance of securing their tour of choice while providing peace of mind knowing their shore excursions are already reserved and paid for,&quot; Cascais noted. </p><p>Cascais indicated a trend toward more immersive landside experiences that allow guests to get an in-depth look at the destinations they are visiting. &quot;Consumers are looking for unique shore excursion choices that allow them to get an \'up close and personal\' look at fascinating cultures and attractions and participate in activities they normally can\'t do at home, all with the goal of creating a lifetime of wonderful vacation memories,&quot; said Cascais. </p><p>He added that with Carnival\'s variety of organized shoreside options, guests not only can explore exciting destinations but also maximize their time in port and be assured that their excursion has been personally researched and evaluated by the line\'s highly trained professionals. </p><p>Carnival\'s shore excursions can be purchased on-line from 120 days up to three days prior to departure date. Guests can also purchase shore excursions via the shore excursion office located adjacent to the purser\'s information desk on board, as well as via interactive television systems on some ships. </p><p>Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 &quot;Fun Ships&quot; operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Bermuda, Europe, and South America. The line has three new ships scheduled for delivery between now and 2011. The first of these, the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, is slated to debut in Europe July 2, 2008. </p><p>For additional information and reservations on Carnival\'s &quot;Fun Ship&quot; cruises, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com . </p><p>Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation &amp; plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is a proud member of the exclusive World\'s Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, our member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together, we offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world\'s most desirable destinations.</p></div>','2013-01-20 00:06:21',182,1,1,'carnival_shore_excursion_sales',NULL,196,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,'Expects Record 1 Million Shore Excursion Tickets to be Sold On-Line This Year ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(320,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Dame Helen Mirren names Ventura',NULL,'2008-04-23 06:07:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA8Lkk8WI9I/AAAAAAAAAIk/E0aiQCmiEAA/s1600-h/helen+mirren.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA8Lkk8WI9I/AAAAAAAAAIk/E0aiQCmiEAA/s400/helen+mirren.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><p>  </p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/po_cruises.phtml\">P&amp;O Cruises</a> newest superliner <st1:place st=\"on\"><st1:city st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:city></st1:place> was named on the 16 April in a spectacular evening ceremony.<span>  </span>British icon and Oscar winning actress Dame Helen Mirren named the ship, the largest superliner ever designed for <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Britain</st1:place></st1:country-region>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p><br />Dame Helen Mirren, <st1:city st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:city>’s godmother, named the superliner prior to <st1:city st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:city>’s maiden cruise to the <st1:place st=\"on\">Mediterranean</st1:place> on the 18 April.<span>  </span>Breaking with the traditional method of simply pressing a button to release a cradled Taittinger champagne bottle towards the ship, she commanded a crack team of Royal Marine Commandoes in a dramatic abseil down the side of the ship.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />Dame Helen Mirren said, \"It is the first time I have ever named a ship, let alone one of the size of P&amp;O Cruises Ventura and am really looking forward to being Godmother.”<br /></p><p><br />Royal Marines display team commanding officer, Lt Colonel Steve Richards, \"This is a rather unusual assignment for our lads, but well within their capabilities. They are very keen to assist Dame Helen with the launch - they will not let her down.\"</p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />P&amp;O Cruises managing director, Nigel Esdale said: \"Dame Helen Mirren embodies glamour, vitality and Britishness, which are all values that will be a feature of <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:place></st1:city>. We are<span lang=\"EN-GB\"> honoured</span> that she has agreed to become Godmother. The arrival of <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:place></st1:city> is set to usher in a new era for the British cruise industry and will accelerate the rate of progress of an already fast growing market. We are delighted that Dame Helen is to be associated with her. At the same time, we are determined to get the bottle-smashing right, and are grateful for the military coordinated assistance of the Royal Marines.\"</p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />The excitement did not stop there and in line with <a href=\"http://www.po-ventura.co.uk/\"><st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:place></st1:city>’s</a> contemporary and innovative image her naming ceremony was a departure from tradition.<span>  </span>In addition to Dame Helen’s customary champagne naming the celebration featured a dramatic show with a number of exciting surprises.</p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />There were 1,500 guests on board <st1:place st=\"on\"><st1:city st=\"on\">Ventura</st1:city></st1:place> including consultant celebrity chef Marco Pierre White, Hugh Bonneville, Kate Ford, Imelda Staunton and Nicholas Lyndhurst. The occasion benefited three children\'s charities supported by Dame Helen and P&amp;O Cruises - Barnardos, Kid\'s Company and Naomi House.<span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=NIlj1BG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=NIlj1BG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=8U18lvg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=8U18lvg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=DzysUZg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=DzysUZg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=3FNllfg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=3FNllfg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/276065351\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 20:54:39',1,0,-1,'dame_helen_mirren_names_ventura','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/276065351/dame-helen-mirren-names-ventura.html',36,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'c7dd1281087edd4a7fcdeca9137ed1cd','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(321,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','NCL America’s Pride of Aloha rescues Shipwrecked Dog',NULL,'2008-04-22 06:57:00','<p><o:p></o:p><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA3HFE8WI8I/AAAAAAAAAIc/TOTTi0mW20A/s1600-h/fanning.JPG\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA3HFE8WI8I/AAAAAAAAAIc/TOTTi0mW20A/s320/fanning.JPG\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/ncl.phtml\">NCL America’s</a> Pride of Aloha returned to <st1:city st=\"on\">Honolulu</st1:city> from a 12 day <st1:state st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Hawaii</st1:place></st1:state> cruise with an extra guest last week – an eight month old cocker spaniel named Snickers.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />Snickers has spent the last four months on <st1:place st=\"on\"><st1:placename st=\"on\">Fanning</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st=\"on\">Island</st1:placetype></st1:place> after being shipwrecked in December 2007.<span>  </span>The Darla Jean, a 48 foot motor sailor, washed up on <st1:place st=\"on\"><st1:placename st=\"on\">Fanning</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st=\"on\">Island</st1:placetype></st1:place> after spending 95 days drifting across the Pacific.<span>  </span>Luckily the boat owners and their pet dog Snickers were all unharmed and after spending two weeks on the island the owners returned to their home in California on an inter-island supply ship.<span>  </span>Unfortunately Snickers was not able to accompany them and he was left behind.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />A <st1:state st=\"on\">Nevada</st1:state>, <st1:city st=\"on\">Las  Vegas</st1:city>, resident Jack Joslin heard of Snicker’s plight and contacted the Hawaiian Humane Society for help in retrieving the dog from <st1:place st=\"on\"><st1:placename st=\"on\">Fannings</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st=\"on\">Island</st1:placetype></st1:place>.<span>  </span>The Human Society contacted NCL America who was happy to provide assistance and worked in conjunction to make arrangements for the abandoned dog to be picked up.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />The <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_shipdetails.phtml?shipid=102\">Pride of Aloha</a> was making a planned stop at <st1:placename st=\"on\">Fanning</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st=\"on\">Island</st1:placetype> on the 9 April and after a stop in Honolulu Snickers will be flown to his new owner in <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Las Vegas</st1:place></st1:city>.</p><div>    </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />“We are pleased that we could help bring Snickers back to the <st1:country-region st=\"on\">United States</st1:country-region>,” said Alan Yamamoto, NCL America’s vice president of <st1:state st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Hawaii</st1:place></st1:state> operations.</p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=FWpEeRG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=FWpEeRG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=LM7HKGg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=LM7HKGg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=N2huKBg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=N2huKBg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=J5VdVAg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=J5VdVAg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/275334910\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 20:55:13',1,0,-1,'ncl_america_s_pride_of','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/275334910/ncl-americas-pride-of-aloha-rescues.html',37,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'c29649a60375247d14d54d377967936e','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(508,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','New Flexible Dining Option To Be Tested On Carnival Legend Beginning June 29','dining_586747836.jpg','2008-05-09 11:50:00','<p>Carnival Cruise Lines will begin testing a new flexible dining option with the Carnival Legend&rsquo;s June 29, 2008, departure that will enable guests to choose an open seating option for dinner.&nbsp; Guests who opt for flexible dining can&nbsp;dine at whatever time they wish between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly in the ship&rsquo;s main restaurant.</p><p>The new flexible dining pilot program aboard Carnival Legend will in no way replace Carnival&rsquo;s popular classic dining system which provides a choice of either main or late seating.&nbsp; Under classic dining, guests dine at the same table with service from the same wait staff&nbsp; throughout the full voyage. </p><p>Guests will be asked to designate either flexible/open seating or classic, assigned seating prior to departure and their choice will be in effect for the full cruise.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>The new open seating dining initiative is the latest addition to Carnival&rsquo;s Total Choice Dining and designed to provide guests with additional flexibility in their dinnertime options.&nbsp; </p><p>Carnival will begin contacting guests sailing on the Carnival Legend&rsquo;s June 29 departure and beyond to advise of the new dining initiative beginning later this month.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>Carnival Legend sails year-round seven-day western Caribbean cruises from Tampa. </p>','2013-01-20 00:26:52',279,1,1,'new_flexible_dining_option_to_be_tested_on_carnival_legend',NULL,199,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(319,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','MSC Cruises round trips from Dover to Northern Europe',NULL,'2008-04-23 06:25:00','<a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA8PvE8WI_I/AAAAAAAAAI0/NCQ-LGzVAZ8/s1600-h/fjords.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SA8PvE8WI_I/AAAAAAAAAI0/NCQ-LGzVAZ8/s400/fjords.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><br />This summer <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/msc_cruises.phtml\">MSC Cruises</a> are offering a number of cruises to see the beautiful cultural scenery of <st1:place st=\"on\">Northern Europe</st1:place>.<span>  </span>In addition all sailings will be in and out of <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Dover</st1:place></st1:city>.<div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />There are a variety of sailings to choose from, including a trip to the breathtaking <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/northern_europe_cruises.phtml\">Norwegian Fjords</a> on the elegant MSC Armonia which sets sail for a 10 night cruise visiting Amsterdam, Bremerhaven, Olden, Alesund, Bergen, Kristiansand and Oslo before making the return journey home to Dover.</p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br /><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_shipdetails.phtml?shipid=185\">MSC Armonia</a> also has the perfect itinerary for those with a love of art, with a cruise that visits the Baltic and <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">St Petersburg</st1:place></st1:city>.<span>  </span>This voyage offers passengers optional excursions to view the amazing art collections of Rembrandt, Picasso and Matisse.<span>  </span>The wonderful 11 day cruise visits <st1:city st=\"on\">Amsterdam</st1:city>, <st1:city st=\"on\">Bremerhaven</st1:city>, <st1:city st=\"on\">Visby</st1:city>, <st1:city st=\"on\">Helsinki</st1:city>, <st1:city st=\"on\">St Petersburg</st1:city>, <st1:city st=\"on\">Copenhagen</st1:city> and <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Dover</st1:place></st1:city>.</p><div>  </div><div>  </div><p><o:p> </o:p><br />MSC Cruises are also offering excellent value for those traveling with families as children under 18 sail for free on all cruise excluding flights and port dues.<span>  </span>For additional convenience, round trips from <st1:city st=\"on\">Dover</st1:city> on board MSC Armonia offer free coach transfers or car parking at <st1:city st=\"on\">Dover</st1:city>, and <st1:country-region st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> regional flights from only £50pp.</p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=9Q07jnG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=9Q07jnG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=sf9VRAg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=sf9VRAg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=cpPbGLg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=cpPbGLg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=KjoVwGg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=KjoVwGg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/276071234\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-06 20:55:01',1,0,-1,'msc_cruises_round_trips_from','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/276071234/msc-cruises-round-trips-from-dover-to.html',35,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'756a3ca2ce603ca86d2bfd5bdc8090a6','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(318,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','P&amp;O Cruises first cruise round Britain in 2009','artemis_458610187.jpg','2008-04-24 16:42:00','<p><span>P&amp;O Cruises has released its new 2009 Preview Edition brochure.<span> </span>The Preview Edition brochure features cruise holidays to 235 destinations in 82 countries with the first cruise around Britain for P&amp;O Cruises.</span> </p><span><p><br />After Ventura&rsquo;s exciting launch party this month she will be sailing her first full year programme in 2009, with 19 departures from Southampton and 10 fly-cruise holidays from Barbados.<span> </span>Ventura is the largest and newest superliner built exclusively for Britain and her godmother is Dame Helen Mirren, who recently christened her in a fabulous glitzy ceremony. </p></span><span></span><p><br />P&amp;O Cruises managing director, Nigel Esdale, said: &ldquo;Our 2009 programme is our biggest yet, offering a 30% increase in capacity for our brand with the first full year of Ventura. We have more ships, more UK departures and more breadth of appeal than any other cruise line.&rdquo; </p><p><br /><span>P&amp;O Cruises Artemis will be departing on the 5 July 2009 on an 11 night debut tour of the British Isles.<span> </span>Ports of call are </span>Leith for Edinburgh, Invergordon, Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands, Moville for Londonderry, Greenock for Glasgow, Dublin, Falmouth and St Peter Port. </p><p><br />&ldquo;For a brand that has brought the world to the door of British passengers for almost 170 years, it is perhaps long overdue and fitting for us to visit the British Isles.&rdquo;<br /><br />Other new ports of call a little further<span> a field</span> include Antwerp in Belgium, the island of Hvar in Croatia and La Spezia in Italy.</p><p><br />&ldquo;Cruise holidays are becoming an increasingly popular choice for younger couples and families and we have two ships within the fleet dedicated to serving this market in terms of length of holiday, destination, on board entertainment, facilities and dining, and pricing.</p><p><br />&ldquo;Shorter cruises on Ventura and Oceana are the perfect choice for people who are new to cruising and want to see if it&rsquo;s for them without being away for two weeks. In 2009 we are offering 16 such itineraries of either two or seven nights &ndash; this is double the amount we offered in 2008.&rdquo;</p><br />For those of you looking to book your cruise holiday soon there are early booking incentives available if you book before 30 June 2008, including up to 45 per cent Pricebreakers discount and free car parking on all Southampton roundtrip itineraries within the brochure.<span> </span>This will offer passengers up to an additional &pound;115 saving on an average two week cruise.<span></span> ','2010-12-27 16:46:42',44,1,-1,'p_amp_o_cruises_first','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/277674240/p-cruises-first-cruise-round-britain-in.html',34,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'4dda6a5f430378ae21e1aec5bab2cafe','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(317,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Royal Caribbean takes delivery of Independence of the Seas','indep_861294734.jpg','2008-04-24 17:10:00','<p><span>Royal Caribbean Cruises has just taken delivery of its newest ship, Independence of the Seas, during a ceremony at Aker Yards in Turku, Finland.</span> <span><br />Continuing its innovative and revolutionary cruise experiences, Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s Independence of the Seas is the third of the lines Freedom class of ship and will be the largest cruise ship ever to be home-ported in Europe when she sails out of Southampton for her inaugural season.</span> </p><span></span><p><br /><span>Independence</span><span> of the Seas shares the title of worlds largest and most innovative cruise ship with her sister ships Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.<span> </span>Her sister ships were launched in the United States in May 2006 and 2007 respectively.</span> </p><span><p><br />Royal Caribbean has made a break from tradition with a Nationwide search to find a godmother for Independence of the Seas.<span> </span>The ships godmother will be an &lsquo;ordinary&rsquo; woman who has done extraordinary things to further the well being of youth in her community and will have been nominated by peers and family members.<span> </span>The search was conducted with the cruise line\'s charity partner and British five-time Olympic gold medalist, Sir Steve Redgrave. </p></span><p><br />The four Godmother finalists joined Royal Caribbean Cruises chairman and CEO Richard Fain at Aker Yards to welcome Independence into service.<span> </span>The four finalists are Barbara Natasegra, Elizabeth Hill, Madeleine Henry and Sue Stones. The Godmother, who will be announced on the 18th of April, will be selected by a distinguished panel of judges, including Sir Steve Redgrave; Royal Caribbean executives and guest judges. She will have the honor of participating in the inaugural celebrations and official naming ceremony in Southampton on the 30th of April. </p><p><br />&quot;We are delighted to welcome Independence of the Seas to our fleet and to introduce her to vacationers throughout the United Kingdom and Europe,&quot; said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. &quot;Positioning one of our largest and newest ships in Southampton reaffirms Royal Caribbean\'s strong commitment to the region and will provide the opportunity for more European guests to experience the distinctive and award-winning vacation our brand has become recognized for throughout the world.&quot; </p><p><br />There will be a number of preview sailings in Oslo, Norway and Southampton, after which Independence will embark on her maiden voyage on the 2 May.<span> </span>Throughout the summer of 2008 she will sail 14 night \'Mediterranean Treasures\' and \'Italian Mediterranean\' itineraries round-trip from Southampton. <br />Independence of the Seas has a capacity of 3,634 guests and will feature all of the industry first amenities which are trademarks on the Freedom class ships.<span> </span>Features such as a FlowRider surf simulator, H20 Zone water park, cantilevered whirlpools suspended 112 ft above the ocean, a full size boxing ring and a 14 person family suite.<span> </span></p><p><span></span><br />Independence also will feature some of the other distinctive offerings the global cruise line is known for including an ice-skating rink; a rock-climbing wall; an award-winning children\'s program; fine to casual dining venues; Broadway-style entertainment and the Royal Promenade - an entertainment boulevard stretching the length of the ship with its shops, restaurants, bars and lounges, which provides guests with an endless variety of choices and experiences to suit their taste and preference.<span></span> <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/277683395\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2011-01-04 14:04:12',126,1,-1,'royal_caribbean_takes_delivery_of','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/277683395/royal-caribbean-takes-delivery-of.html',33,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'f2a2f661226a9f51e7e9741de8757d60','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(315,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','&quot;Innovative&quot; Royal Caribbean Cruises','flowrider_163058306.jpg','2008-04-24 17:49:00','<p>At this time of year many cruise lines are releasing details of their 2009-10 cruise brochures, highlighting on shore excursions and interesting packages, however Royal Caribbean Cruises believe that their own sailings offer more choice to passengers. </p><p><br />They will be offering a series of innovative new cruises, with 31 distinct itineraries and a total of 264 sailings from six to fourteen night voyages in the Caribbean. </p><p><br />Alice Norsworthy, Senior Vice-President of Marketing at the cruise line, commented: &quot;We continue our legacy of delivering exhilarating Caribbean experiences in one of the world\'s most spectacular destinations with some of the best ships in the industry geared for family and active vacations.&quot; </p><p><br />Freedom of the Seas will be sailing to the eastern and western Caribbean offering cruisers a wealth of on board amenities, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall and indoor skating rink.<span> </span><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/277698256\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2011-01-01 11:22:40',127,1,-1,'quot_innovative_quot_royal_caribbean','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/277698256/innovative-royal-caribbean-cruises.html',31,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'00bae413e436690801e4522bc6456358','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(507,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Donates 15 Scholarships to Local HEAT Academy Students During End-of-Year Event','heat_151678913.jpg','2008-05-14 03:10:00','<p>The HEAT Academy &ndash; an after-school program for at-risk elementary school students sponsored by the Miami HEAT and Carnival Cruise Lines - recently held an end-of-year celebration for its 300 students at the American Airlines Arena in Miami. </p><p>During the event, Carnival presented a check for $77,000, which represented a donation by the cruise line, along with a dollar-for-dollar matching contribution provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.&nbsp; The monies will fund 15 scholarships for HEAT Academy students.&nbsp; The scholarships will mature in 2015, coinciding with the students&rsquo; high school graduation. </p><p>On hand to present the check were Carnival&rsquo;s Senior Vice President of Air/Sea Operations and Corporate Training Roberta Jacoby and Carnival Foundation Director Linda Coll.</p><p>To date, the cruise line has provided a total of 75 scholarships to HEAT Academy students with a total estimated value of more than $350,000. </p><p>Carnival&rsquo;s support of the academy also includes an innovative mentoring-in-the-workplace program in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Through the program, high school students who attend the HEAT Academy are paired with a member of Carnival&rsquo;s management team and shadow them throughout their workday to get a first-hand look at the business world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 00:06:33',178,1,1,'carnival_donates_15_scholarships',NULL,198,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(316,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Carnival Dream to be based from Port Canaveral','dream_574909661.jpg','2008-04-24 17:35:00','<p>Carnival Cruises newest ship will <span></span>be the largest &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; ever built and will be based at Port Canaveral, Florida from Autumn 2009.</p><p><br />The new ship is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.<span> </span>It will hold 3,652 passengers and will be named Carnival Dream, the first in a new class of ship for Carnival Cruises.<span> </span>The new class will feature a unique interior design, sleek hull and distinctive profile, along with a whole host of innovative facilities, the details of which will be released in the coming months. </p><p><br />Carnival Dream&rsquo;s deployment to Port Canaveral continues the line&rsquo;s 18 year relationship with the Canaveral Port Authority, the longest tenure of any cruise line there.<span> </span></p><span></span><p><br />There are another two ships scheduled to join Carnival Dream, the 113,300<span> tonne</span> Carnival Splendor set to debut in Europe 2 July 2008 and the 130,000<span> tonne</span> Carnival Magic, for delivery in June 2011. </p><p><br />Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 &ldquo;Fun Ships&rdquo; operating three- to 18-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Europe and South America. <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/277698258\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2010-12-31 13:39:16',198,1,-1,'carnival_dream_to_be_based','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/277698258/carnival-dream-to-be-based-from-port.html',32,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'93a1495f90fb64a98f2aca82440b3947','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(313,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Boston Symphony Chamber Players to Perform Aboard Queen Mary 2','bostonhall_637845355.jpg','2008-04-27 01:42:00','<div align=\"justify\">One of the worlds most distinguished chamber music ensembles The Boston Symphony Chamber Players will perform on Cunard Cruises Queen Mary 2 on her eastbound Transatlantic crossing departing from New York on September 4.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />Cunard, the official cruise line of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, will welcome the players and the Boston Symphony Orchestra&rsquo;s esteemed Artistic Administrator, Anthony Fogg, for special performances and lectures held throughout the voyage.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />The Boston Symphony Chamber Players were founded in 1964 to ensure the BSO could share the unique qualities of the full chamber repertoire with concertgoers. The Boston Symphony Chamber Players engagement is a highlight this season of many illuminating performances and appearances that comprise Cunard Insights&trade;, the lines award winning enrichment program which is now available on all three of the celebrated ocean liners.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />&quot;Live classical music remains a Cunard hallmark to this day and showcasing a world-class chamber orchestra of this notoriety will be a truly memorable event for our guests,&quot; said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line.</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/278834181\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2011-01-02 06:14:51',169,1,-1,'boston_symphony_chamber_players_to','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/278834181/boston-symphony-chamber-players-to.html',29,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'91ff9bfcc4f21d72e2fb1045fc834fe2','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(314,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Exciting new cuisine on Carnival Cruises','sushi_393267776.jpg','2008-04-26 16:29:00','<div align=\"justify\">A study by Ciao Surveys has revealed that a third of UK consumers admitted that food is a key aspect of a holiday for them.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />The third of Britons mentioned will undoubtedly be pleased to find that for the most part cruise holidays cater for this requirement, especially after Carnival Cruises have announced that they are adding an array of international dishes to their menus this summer.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />There will de delicacies such as Mongolian barbeque, fresh sushi and Indian tandoori among the delights that passengers travelling on European cruises can expect in summer 2008.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br /><br />&ldquo;Today&rsquo;s consumers are savvier than ever and when it comes to cuisine they want not only long time favourites but also the opportunity to enjoy new choices they typically wouldn&rsquo;t try at home,&rdquo; Natko Nincevic, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations for Royal Caribbean Cruises commented.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />Carnival Cruises ship Splendour will be offering passengers on board a selection of multi course meals featuring Indian style chicken, fish kebabs and a Mongolian wok. Guests can choose their own vegetables, seafood, meat and seasonings before it is prepared in front of them.<br /></div><div align=\"justify\"><br />In addition to new Asian delicacies traditional cuisine will also be available on Carnival&rsquo;s ships.</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/278828893\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2009-06-03 08:07:05',21,0,-1,'exciting_new_cuisine_on_carnival','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/278828893/exciting-new-cuisine-on-carnival.html',30,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'8dd3679e229a1bd27461c16b755c0536','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(311,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','John Lithgow to Perform Aboard Silver Whisper','johnlithgow_847291856.jpg','2008-05-01 03:17:00','<p><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SBrrI3M63II/AAAAAAAAAKE/01cJSjAsq5Q/s1600-h/john+lithgow.jpg\"></a><span>John Lithgow from the popular sitcom 3<sup>rd</sup> Rock from the Sun will be joining Silversea&rsquo;s Silver Whisper as a celebrity guest speaker aboard its 5 July voyage from Athens to Venice.</span> </p><span><p><br />The award-winning actor best known for his starring role as Dr Dick Soloman will be treating quests sailing on the luxury ship to a section of his new one-man show, Stories by Heart, now playing a limited engagement at Lincoln Center&rsquo;s Mitzi R, Newhouse Theatre in New York. </p></span><span><p><br />In the show Lithgow traces his own history as an actor and storyteller, the show being a comic mediation on the art and essence of storytelling.<span> </span>Spanning three generations the show includes tales of his father and grandmother before him. </p></span><span><p><br />The actor won the first of two Tony Awards following his Broadway debut in David Storey&rsquo;s The Changing Room.<span> </span>He went on to make films such as The World According to Garp and Terms of Endearment, of which both performances were nominated for an Oscar.<span> </span>Lithgow has been nominated for ten Emmy Awards for his work in television. He won three Emmy Awards, one Golden Globe, two SAG Awards and an American Comedy Award. </p></span><p><br />&quot;We\'re thrilled and honored to have such a renowned stage, film and television actor on board to entertain our guests,&quot; said Cliff Perry, Silversea\'s director of entertainment. &quot;The intimate, club-like ambience of Silver Whisper will make it the perfect venue to showcase Mr. Lithgow\'s formidable talents.&quot; <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/282019696\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2011-01-03 00:20:41',139,1,-1,'john_lithgow_to_perform_aboard','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/282019696/john-lithgow-to-perform-aboard-silver.html',27,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,2,9,NULL,NULL,'2d5df1439ddc112cbea112a98bd3497f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(494,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Celebrity Cruises Spring Cleaning Fleet','springclean_960789634.jpg','2008-05-05 18:09:00','<div class=\"image\"><a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SCGBU9Ne2mI/AAAAAAAAALE/1TSTzsuLLbI/s1600-h/spring+clean.jpg\"></a></div><p><span>Celebrity Cruises are embarking on a &lsquo;spring clean&rsquo; of its fleet, including Celebrity Summit, which has already been given a treatment involving replacing thousands of square feet of tiles, carpeting and 2,500 yards of fabric.</span> </p><span><p><br />Celebrity Summit has also been fitted with a new 11,000 kilowatt diesel dedicated electrical generation system which will reduce the ships fuel consumption when in port.<span> </span>Celebrity Summit&rsquo;s Rendezvous Lounge has undergone a makeover with a new floor and the boutique shop has been renovated.</p><p><span></span><br />&quot;We are constantly focused on the care and maintenance of our fleet, and evaluate the exterior and interior appearance of every ship, every day, to ensure we\'re consistently delivering the best guest experience,&quot; Senior Vice-President of Marine Operations at Celebrity Cruises, John Krousouloudis commented.<span></span><span></span> <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/285270102\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p></span>','2008-09-10 18:22:27',26,0,-1,'celebrity_cruises_spring_cleaning_fleet','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/285270102/celebrity-cruises-spring-cleaning-fleet.html',190,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,NULL,'Including Celebrity Summit','c74b77f7fd8f3f7b2b4af71e4c077607','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(312,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','NCL&#039;s New Wave Staterooms','nclnewwave1_650777367.jpg','2008-04-27 10:24:00','<p><span>N</span><span>CL&rsquo;s next generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, F3, will feature the New Wave Standard, New Wave balcony and New Wave deluxe staterooms. This represents a huge leap forward in cruise ship accommodation with an entirely fresh take on bathroom design, contemporary curved architecture and open living space.</span></p><p><span></span><span><br />There are some distinctive design features in the New Wave staterooms, from curved walls and lines creating a modern chic experience. NCL have optimised the living space with a bathroom that is completely unique with a separate shower stall, separate water closet and a modern vanity top sink. <span><br />Staterooms will be designed in sophisticated earth toned palettes, accented with a splash of colour and rich, dark wood. There are concealed contour LED lighting and back-lit domed ceilings to set a relaxing atmosphere.</span> </span></p><p><br />&quot;From the introduction of the first Caribbean cruise more than 41 years ago to the launch of Freestyle Cruising in 2000 and beyond, NCL has always blazed a trail of innovation,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;We have thrown away the rule book with the design of F3 and today are revealing the very first element with our New Wave staterooms. Gone are the regimented typical designs and in place are sleek staterooms that are totally outside the box, designed for the needs of tomorrow\'s guests.&quot;</p><p><br /><span>Included with the amenities and comforts of NCL&rsquo;s</span><span> Freestyle </span><span>2.0 enhancements will be upgraded</span><span> bedding, linens and towels, Euro pillows, Elemis bathroom products and MP3 connectivity. Balcony and deluxe staterooms have bathrobes, a customised fruit menu, a fresh baked cookie at turn down on the last night of cruise, priority restaurant reservation and special colour key card for ship wide recognition.</span> </p><p><br />&quot;Today\'s announcement is just the first chapter in a series of innovations we will be revealing about our new F3 ships leading up to their launch in 2010,&quot; Veitch said. &quot;These ships will further deconstruct the traditional cruise ship experience with innovations in design, accommodations, luxury and entertainment to create a cutting-edge resort vacation experience unlike any other at sea.&quot;</p><p><br />The 150,000 ton F3 class ships are expected to be delivered in 2010.<span></span> <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/280830443\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2011-01-03 01:21:03',161,1,-1,'ncl_s_new_wave_staterooms',NULL,28,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'fd84f015335097eb0fc5c46519d4ae0e','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(310,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Star Princess and Caribbean Princess to be Remodeled','crowngrill_588322205.jpg','2008-05-01 21:34:00','<p><a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SBrvh3M63JI/AAAAAAAAAKM/2yufX5oonWA/s1600-h/crown+grill.JPG\"></a>Princess Cruises are to remodel two of their ships, Star Princess and Caribbean Princess, to include a host of amenities that have become hugely popular with guests on the line&rsquo;s newer ships.</p><br />There will be a makeover of the Deck 5 atrium on both ships, transforming it into the piazza style street caf&eacute; the same as on Crown Princess and Emerald Princess.<span> </span>Princess&rsquo; signature adult only Sanctuary will be included, as will the Crown Grill steak and seafood restaurant, along with a relocated casino to a more central location and seven new suites. <p><br />Star Princess will receive these new features during her September dry-dock in San Francisco and Caribbean Princess will follow in January 2009.<span> </span>The ships new atriums will feature the specialty coffees, freshly baked goods, paninis and tapas of the International Caf&eacute;.<span> </span>In addition there will be an enhanced Vines wine bar concept which will feature rare vintages of wine, a selection of artisan meats and cheeses, plus a wine shop where guests can purchase their<span> favourite</span> bottle. </p><br />The Sanctuary will be a welcome addition, having become extremely popular on the newer ships in the fleet. Guests get the chance to relax in a tranquil adults only area, on plush lounge chairs with the dedicated attention of the Serenity Stewards.<span> </span><p><br />As part of the renovation, each vessel will also receive seven new suites with ocean-view picture windows, and the casino will be relocated one deck higher to deck 7, bringing it into the ship\'s central entertainment area. </p><br />&quot;After Crown Princess and Emerald Princess debuted, we knew we had struck a chord with our passengers who loved the piazza-style atriums, new dining experiences and the peaceful environment of The Sanctuary,&quot; said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president. &quot;And so we\'re delighted to bring these hallmark features to two of the other vessels.&quot;<span></span><span></span><span></span> <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/282039854\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2010-12-24 22:21:47',51,1,-1,'star_princess_and_caribbean_princess','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/282039854/star-princess-and-caribbean-princess-to.html',26,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'faad7372a7bc751bc6a63e959b7c86b3','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(308,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Crystal Calls Upon Cheese Sommeliers',NULL,'2007-11-13 19:34:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/RzpFcrOjSUI/AAAAAAAAAjU/0zQ7_WqFU0A/s1600-h/Crystal_Cruises_Wine_Tasting2.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/RzpFcrOjSUI/AAAAAAAAAjU/0zQ7_WqFU0A/s400/Crystal_Cruises_Wine_Tasting2.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Here\'s something of note: <a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">Crystal Cruises</a> has announced that in addition to its certified Court of Master wine sommeliers, new \"cheese sommeliers\" will join the crew for all 2008 voyages.<br /><br />The certification of these culinary professionals is actually pretty serious business. Master Sommelier Robert Bath, one of only 124 people in the world to hold this title, is overseeing the certification of Crystal\'s wine sommeliers. Bath was the creative force behind the acclaimed wine program at the lauded French Laundry.<br /><br />Cheese Sommeliers will be certified by Professor Gerhard Ebner of the International Cheese Academy at the Hotel and Tourism School in Bad Gleichenberg, Austria.<br /><br />Certification for Crystal\'s cheese and wine sommeliers takes more than 60 hours of schooling and five-and-a-half hours of testing.<br /><br />From Le Riopelle de l\'Isle, a rare triple cream cheese from Isle-aux-Grues (Goose Island) in Québec, to the mildly spicy Saint Albray from the French Pyrenees, the cheese sommeliers will be expanding Crystal\'s selection of regional and artisanal cheeses, and can offer insights on sampling suggestions; the harmony with wines and spirits; and information on the history, manufacturing, and fine distinctions of each cheese. And don\'t forget that Crystal ships maintain a 25,000-bottle wine cellar with more than 350 labels.<br /><br />It will be interesting to see what new additions are made to Crystal\'s culinary offerings in 2008 and beyond. For more information, visit <a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">Crystal Cruises\' website</a>.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'crystal_calls_upon_cheese_sommeliers','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/11/crystal-calls-upon-cheese-sommeliers.html',24,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'5856c23e0f305ff5f529a8bb268654c8','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(309,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','New Ports of Call for SeaDream\'s 2009 Caribbean Season',NULL,'2007-11-13 15:31:00','<a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/RzoReLOjSTI/AAAAAAAAAjM/k8foeKeEeiA/s1600-h/6_jost_van_dike.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/RzoReLOjSTI/AAAAAAAAAjM/k8foeKeEeiA/s400/6_jost_van_dike.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.seadreamyachtclub.com/\">SeaDream Yacht Club</a> has announced its Caribbean itineraries for 2009 (January through April). They\'ve done a great job spicing things up! I was just lamenting to someone the other day that all of my favorite luxury cruise lines are doing the same-old same old in the Caribbean. With SeaDream\'s new itineraries, there are quite a few that will lure even die-hard Caribbean cruisers who feel as if they\'ve seen every bay and cove there is to discover.<br /><br />In January 2009, <span>SeaDream I </span>alternates between 5- and 9-day voyages between San Juan and Puerto Rico. Some of the more interesting ports of call include:<br /><br /><div>Gustavia, St. Barthelemy<br />Virgin Gorda, BVI<br />Honeymoon Beach, Water Island<br />Anegada, BVI<br />Saba, Netherlands Antilles<br />Peter Island, BVI<br />Culebrita, Puerto Rico<br />Esperanza, Vieques<br />Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe<br /></div><br />During the same time period, <span>SeaDream II</span> is plying the waters around San Juan with 7-day cruises.<br /><br />In February 2009, SeaDream extends its reach to Dominica, St. Lucia (Rodney Bay and Castries), Montserrat, and Antigua. There\'s an especially intriguing 4-day Valentine\'s Day sailing that whisks travelers from San Juan to Culebrita, Puerto Rico; Esperanza, Vieques, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Honeymoon Beach, Water Island; Jost van Dyke, BVI; and back to San Juan.<br /><br />SeaDream continues to explore St. Lucia in March, with calls on Soufrier Bay and Marigot Bay. The Grenadines are also added to the mix (Tobago Cays, Bequia, and Mayreau).<br /><br />With temperatures rising in April, SeaDream\'s yachts focus on Samana, Dominican Republic, the Bahamas (Port Lucaya, Egg Island, and Nassau), Turks &amp; Caicos (Cockburn Town), and Florida (Miami and Key West).<br /><br />It\'s nice to see this change-up when it comes to Caribbean cruising. I\'ll be looking forward to a getaway in 2009! For more information, visit SeaDream\'s recently redesigned <a href=\"http://www.seadreamyachtclub.com/\">website</a>.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of SeaDream Yacht Club.</span></span>','2008-05-02 19:41:56',1,0,-1,'new_ports_of_call_for','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/11/new-ports-of-call-for-seadreams-2009.html',25,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'9b58c709501aa9e93ed8466d048d13e5','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(307,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Nov. 17 Cross on SeaDream I Cancelled',NULL,'2007-11-17 19:20:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R0eKbANceFI/AAAAAAAAAkU/Bb0m7CFALO0/s1600-h/1_montecarlo.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R0eKbANceFI/AAAAAAAAAkU/Bb0m7CFALO0/s400/1_montecarlo.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Last week while sailing near Tangiers, S<span>eaDream I </span>damaged one of its stabilizers. In order to make the necessary repairs before its scheduled cross from Lisbon to San Juan, the November 17 itinerary was cancelled. While <a href=\"http://www.seadreamyachtclub.com/\">SeaDream Yacht Club</a> originally hoped to simply delay departure until November 21, poor weather conditions prevented <span>SeaDream I </span>from immediately entering dry dock.<br /><br />Cruise line executives from Miami flew to Lisbon to assist passengers who, while disappointed, were pleased with SeaDream\'s assistance with hotel arrangements in Lisbon and transportation home or to San Juan where they would have docked on November 28. A charter scheduled for the 28th was also cancelled.<br /><br />SeaDream representatives were confident that the December 9th sailing would embark from San Juan as scheduled. Here\'s to hoping that the repairs are made swiftly and <span>SeaDream I</span> makes its way safely from Europe to the Caribbean.<br /><br />I hope all of the \"crossers\" were able to enjoy their holiday, even without a SeaDream cruise, and with any luck they\'ll be yachting on an alternative itinerary soon.',NULL,0,0,-1,'nov_17_cross_on_seadream','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/11/nov-17-cross-on-seadream-i-cancelled.html',23,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'6425b32a657f2456923032bdaccafdfa','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(306,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Fuel Surcharge Roundup',NULL,'2007-11-24 19:05:00','With oil hitting $100 per barrel last week, it\'s no wonder the cruise lines are instituting fuel surcharges for future sailings. Here\'s the roundup...<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com\"><span>Crystal Cruises:</span></a> In 2007, the line instituted a $5.00 per person per day fuel surcharge. 2008 cruises will carry a $7.00 per person per day fee. This applies to all 2008 sailings that are not paid in full by January 1, 2008. If you previously paid a 2008 voyage in full, you\'ll be assessed last year\'s lower surcharge.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.cunard.com\"><span>Cunard:</span></a> Beginning on February 1, 2008, Cunard will charge a $5 per person per day fuel surcharge, not to exceed $70 per person per cruise. The surcharge only applies to the first two passengers in the cabin; third and fourth passengers per cabin are not charged the fee. The surcharge applies to all existing and future bookings.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.oceaniacruises.com\"><span>Oceania Cruises:</span></a> This line will levy $7.00 per person per day as a fuel surcharge for all currently published sailings between now and April 2009. Avoid this fee by making final payment prior to December 1, 2007.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.rssc.com\"><span>Regent Seven Seas Cruises: </span></a>If you pay your cruise invoice by December 1, 2007, you can avoid Regent\'s newly instituted fuel surcharge of $7.50 per person per day. This charge applies to all 2008 sailings.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.seadreamyachtclub.com\"><span>SeaDream Yacht Club:</span></a> Fuel surcharges are included in SeaDream\'s Port charges and are not broken out separately.<br /><br /><span><a href=\"http://www.silversea.com\">Silversea Cruises:</a> </span>All cruises booked on or after November 14, 2007 will be assessed a $10 per person per day fuel surcharge. Passengers who booked future voyages prior to the November 14 cutoff date will not be charged this fee.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.windstarcruises.com\"><span>Windstar Cruises:</span></a> If you\'re sailing on the <span>Wind Surf, Wind Spirit</span>, or <span>Wind Star</span> between now and March 2009, you\'ll be assessed an $8.50 per person per day fuel surcharge. You can avoid this charge by paying your invoice in full by December 15, 2007.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.seabourn.com\"><span>Yachts of Seabourn:</span></a> This line will charge a $5.00 per person per day fuel surcharge, not to exceed $70 per person per voyage for all sailings departing on or after February 1, 2008.','2008-05-02 19:46:16',2,0,-1,'fuel_surcharge_roundup','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/11/fuel-surcharge-roundup.html',22,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'95775c4b84c656c3d5d48cb7b1094e47','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(304,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Windstar\'s 12/8 Wind Spirit Cruise Canceled',NULL,'2007-12-04 20:10:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R19XZNs002I/AAAAAAAAAk8/r9BeIJqKTBg/s1600-h/wsc_banner_logo.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R19XZNs002I/AAAAAAAAAk8/r9BeIJqKTBg/s320/wsc_banner_logo.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Due to a cracked propeller on the <span>Wind Spirit</span>, <a href=\"http://www.windstarcruises.com/\">Windstar Cruises</a> has canceled its December 8 sailing out of St. Thomas. The repair requires dry docking and the ship is expected to be back in service for the December 15 sailing.<br /><br />Windstar offered passengers a 100% refund, reimbursement of transportation-related expenses, and a 50% onboard credit for a future cruise.',NULL,0,0,-1,'windstar_s_12_8_wind','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/windstars-128-wind-spirit-cruise.html',20,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'47e068d0b0fb0e3e902dfd6c206bec94','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(305,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Crystal Serenity Fire; Minor Damage Fixed',NULL,'2007-11-28 20:43:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R04fTANceGI/AAAAAAAAAkc/ECVoMa2Nams/s1600-h/CY_at_sea6_72dpi.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R04fTANceGI/AAAAAAAAAkc/ECVoMa2Nams/s400/CY_at_sea6_72dpi.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>On November 17 while docked in Bermuda, a small fire broke out in <a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">Crystal</a> <span>Serenity</span>\'s engine room. The flames were contained within one piece of equipment and were put out quickly. The crew and guests were not at risk during this incident.<br /><br />Unfortunately, the fire necessitated the shutdown of one of six engines aboard the <span>Serenity</span>. This reduced sailing speed and meant a four-hour delay in returning to Miami for disembarkation. Crystal\'s staff worked hard to assist all passengers—those that booked Crystal air and those who made their plans independently—with any necessary adjustments to flights and land transportation.<br /><br />Spare parts and mechanics met the<span> Serenity</span> at Miami where the repairs were made before the ship\'s turnaround to welcome guests aboard voyage #7328 (Tropical Passage through the Panama Canal).<br /><br />For more information about Crystal Cruises, visit their <a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">website</a>.','2008-05-02 19:46:26',1,0,-1,'crystal_serenity_fire_minor_damage','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/11/crystal-serenity-fire-minor-damage.html',21,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'0a1dbbfce24c362e4d8e2a7442eeeaa2','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(285,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Regent&#039;s Captain Knut Invites You to Norway','VOY080624_544691231.gif','2008-04-26 19:47:00','<p><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS9XM6NHkI/AAAAAAAAAnc/ZctLBJJ1_-4/s1600-h/VOY080624.gif\"></a>Regent just sent over this information about a summer voyage that sounds spectacular...<br /><br />&quot;Norway is a land of rich maritime history and natural beauty, from its inspiring mountain peaks and majestic waterfalls to the deep blue waters coursing through its towering fjords. Norway&rsquo;s Geirangerfjord region is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Oslo, the capital, features an intriguing mix of architectural styles and a history dating back 900 years. This summer, none other than Regent <span></span><span>Seven Seas Voyager</span> master and Norway resident Captain Knut Hanssen will host guests on a journey highlighting Norway&rsquo;s stunning natural landscape and rich seafaring culture.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS85M6NHiI/AAAAAAAAAnM/Uz7Nvme_iVI/s1600-h/knut_hanssen.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS85M6NHiI/AAAAAAAAAnM/Uz7Nvme_iVI/s200/knut_hanssen.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a></p><p>Captain Hanssen&rsquo;s 15-night cruise from Dover to Copenhagen departs June 24, 2008 aboard <span>Seven Seas Voyager</span>. Familiar to many Regent Seven Seas guests as the past master of the iconic luxury ship <span>Song of Flower</span>, Captain Hanssen&rsquo;s experiences in Norway include service as a North Sea Captain in the Royal Navy. He currently resides in Alesund, Norway.<br /><br />During the cruise, Captain Hanssen will share his insider&rsquo;s views of the Norwegian fjords, which are the centerpiece of this itinerary. The itinerary features calls at Hellesylt, Geiranger, Longyearbyen (Spitzbergen), Honningsvag and Fl&aring;m, each home to towering fjords, monumental waterfalls, lush forests, snow-capped mountain peaks and abundant wildlife.<br /><br />The cruise will also feature a special guest: Bard Kolltveit, Director of Research at Oslo&rsquo;s Norwegian Maritime Museum. The museum features extensive collections and displays detailing Norway&rsquo;s history through its relationship with the sea. Kolltveit has authored more than one dozen scholarly and popular maritime books, as well as articles in various Norwegian and foreign publications.&quot;</p>','2013-01-18 23:38:23',148,1,-1,'regent_s_captain_knut_invites','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/04/regents-captain-knut-invites-you-to.html',1,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'f2cf6af0f2049458f138ab8a83fa9f95','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(286,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','EOS Airlines Calls It Quits',NULL,'2008-04-27 11:45:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBSjXs6NHeI/AAAAAAAAAms/i2aHaHW2q6A/s1600-h/eosLogoUnairline.gif\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBSjXs6NHeI/AAAAAAAAAms/i2aHaHW2q6A/s400/eosLogoUnairline.gif\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Sad news today from <a href=\"http://www.eosairlines.com/\">EOS Airlines</a>. Due to the high cost of fuel and the credit crunch, the airline has filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will cease operations on Sunday, April 27, 2008.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com\">Crystal Cruises</a> had partnered with EOS to provide low-cost business air upgrades for travel to Europe in 2008. Passengers holding EOS tickets booked via Crystal should contact their travel agent or the cruise line as soon as possible.<br /><br />For independent travelers who have confirmed tickets on a future EOS flight, the airline suggests that you contact your credit card for a refund. Other airlines may offer seats on their flights, but they are not obligated to do so. Silverjet posted on its website this morning that it will try to assist displaced EOS customers. Here\'s the note posted:<br /><br /><span>Rebooking Information from Silverjet</span><br /><span>Following the cessation of EOS operations, Silverjet is offering EOS customers the opportunity to re-book on available Silverjet services Book with Silverjet before midnight May 10, 2008 (BST) and we will honour the price you paid to EOS, subject to seat availability and a minimum price paid*. To re-book, please call Silverjet on UK: 0844 855 0111 or USA: 877 359 7458 (FLYSILVERJET), 24 hours a day. </span><p>Electronic proof of the ticket price paid to EOS and your original EOS e-confirmation number will be required.</p>  <p>* Please note, if you have paid less than £600 / $1,200 plus taxes one-way or £1,200 / $2,400 plus taxes round trip, we will be unable to honour this offer.</p> <div>***<br /></div><br /><span>It\'s been a tough year for the airlines with ATA and Aloha Airlines going out of business. EOS joins their ranks and there will most likely be a few other airlines that must cease operations or merge with another carrier. Things aren\'t looking all that bright for Alitalia right now, and many are guessing that airline may be the next to close its doors.</span>','2011-01-02 10:37:31',154,1,-1,'eos_airlines_calls_it_quits','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/04/eos-airlines-calls-it-quits.html',2,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'b2c086d668367db58bb53bdddd98a77d','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(287,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','More News on Crystal\'s Wine &amp; Food Festival',NULL,'2008-04-23 13:34:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS7qs6NHgI/AAAAAAAAAm8/v-9VTqcKarE/s1600-h/Crystal_Cruises_Salad.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS7qs6NHgI/AAAAAAAAAm8/v-9VTqcKarE/s400/Crystal_Cruises_Salad.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">Crystal Cruises</a> has been busy lining up an all-star cast for its October Wine &amp; Food cruises in the Mediterranean and New England. Here\'s what you can look forward to...<br /><br />* Aboard the <span>Serenity</span>\'s 12-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona departing October 18, 2008: <span>Michelle Bernstein</span>, former James Beard nominee and well-known chef/owner of Michy\'s in Miami, and wine expert/author <span>Lettie Teague</span> of <span>Food &amp; Wine</span> magazine.<br /><br />* Aboard the <span>Symphony\'</span>s 10-day cruise beginning on October 19 from Montreal to New York: <span>Henri Brosi</span>, executive chef of London\'s Dorchester Hotel, will showcase the techniques that have earned him worldwide critical acclaim. Joining him is wine \"wizard\" <span>Keith Goldston</span>, one of the world\'s youngest Master Sommeliers.<br /><br />Crystal\'s Wine &amp; Food Festivals include onboard lectures, cooking demonstrations, tastings, and dinners of signature dishes.<br /><br />Throughout each voyage, carefully crafted optional shore excursions offer guests authentic regional culinary experiences, such as cooking lessons at a Michelin star restaurant in Sorrento, wine tasting in the Sicilian countryside, a lobster lunch on the coast of Nova Scotia, and a three-course gourmet meal and blind wine tasting in Saint John\'s.<br /><br />Crystal <span>Serenity</span>\'s 12-day cruise from Rome to Barcelona October 18, 2008, features calls in Naples and Sicily/Catania, Italy; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; and Malaga, Cartagena, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; concluding with a shipboard overnight call in Barcelona. Fares begin at $4,445, per person, double occupancy.<br /><br />Crystal <span>Symphony</span>\'s 10-day cruise from Montreal to New York, October 19, 2008, features calls in Quebec City, Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John\'s, New Brunswick; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; and Newport, Rhode Island. Fares begin at $3,435, per person, double occupancy.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises.</span></span>','2009-10-13 14:37:32',5,3,-1,'more_news_on_crystal_s','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/04/more-news-on-crystals-wine-food.html',3,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'87e165cdabeeaf362d45fa5494db5f7f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(288,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Silversea Alaska Sailing to Focus on Food &amp; Wine',NULL,'2008-04-15 12:28:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS0tc6NHfI/AAAAAAAAAm0/DlbAbQ58d4A/s1600-h/ship_silversea_shadow.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SBS0tc6NHfI/AAAAAAAAAm0/DlbAbQ58d4A/s400/ship_silversea_shadow.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.silversea.com/\">Silversea\'s</a> <span>Silver Shadow</span> is sailing Alaskan waters this summer and in addition to the breathtaking scenery and adventurous shore excursions, the line will also spotlight food and wine on its June 21, 2008 voyage. In fact, Silversea has asked John Shafer of Shafer Vineyards in Napa Valley, California, to host a special \"Wine &amp; Food\" enrichment program.<br /><br />John will lead various wine tastings throughout the voyage as well as a private tour and tasting at the end of the journey at Shafer\'s Hillside Select.<br /><br />Randy Aprill, Executive Chef at the elite Silicon Valley Capital Club in San Jose will also be onboard. Aprill was formerly a chef in the White House, where he cooked in the president’s kitchen for State dinners and dignitaries. John and Randy will offer wine tastings, group discussions, culinary demonstrations, and an exclusive winemaker dinner featuring Shafer wines and Aprill’s signature cuisine.<br /><br />Shafer wines have earned much critical praise since the vintner’s first cabernet was produced in 1978. Shafer was one of a few wineries selected worldwide to be featured in Robert M. Parker, Jr.’s book, <span>The World’s Greatest Wine Estates</span>, where he writes that Shafer is “one of the world’s greatest wineries.” <span>Wine &amp; Spirits</span> magazine also places Shafer “among the world’s Top 25 Great Vineyards.”<br /><br />Cruises will also get to experience <span>Silver Shadow</span>’s new state-of-the art culinary theater equipped with professional-caliber appliances and cookware custom designed by Viking Range.<br /><br />In addition, expert Alaska guides will be on board to add personal insights and offer slide lectures of the history, nature, and peoples of the region as the ship navigates Alaska’s pristine glacial passages.<br /><br />The 10-day voyage aboard the intimate, all-inclusive <span>Silver Shadow</span> sails from Vancouver to under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with calls in Sitka, Haines, Juneau, and Ketchikan, Alaska plus Prince Rupert, British Columbia.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of Silversea.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'silversea_alaska_sailing_to_focus','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/04/silversea-alaska-sailing-to-focus-on.html',4,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'4ed20cf6ff063c2395b4160200cd72fb','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(289,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Silver Cloud &amp; Wind to Undergo Serious Refurb',NULL,'2008-03-12 15:38:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rU7jOvK7I/AAAAAAAAAmU/oE-4C8bMASo/s1600-h/SilverCloud%26Wind.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rU7jOvK7I/AAAAAAAAAmU/oE-4C8bMASo/s400/SilverCloud%26Wind.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Miami Beach played host to the annual Seatrade Cruising Shipping Convention this past week and several luxury lines, including <a href=\"http://www.silversea.com\">Silversea Cruises</a>, made statements to the press. Company execs unveiled plans for a massive dry-dock refurbishment of both the <span>Silver Cloud </span>and <span>Silver Wind</span>. The goal is to bring the interiors stylistically in line with the new 540-passenger <span>Silver Spirit</span>, scheduled for delivery in December 2009. The <span>Silver Wind</span> will spend November 2008 in dry dock, while the <span>Silver Cloud </span>will be retrofitted in May 2009.<br /><br />Suites are in for many upgrades, including new bathrooms, carpets, flat-screen TVs, and more. According to Silversea, “Verandas will also be spruced up.” It will be interesting to learn what that exactly means.<br /><br />Additional enhancements will include a new ocean-view spa and fitness center on Deck 9, a new Observation Lounge, eight new large suites on Decks 7 and 8, reduction of Vista Suites on Deck 4, and a new guest elevator connecting Decks 8 and 9.<br /><br />“These will be the most comprehensive construction and refurbishment initiatives ever undertaken for <span>Silver Cloud</span> and <span>Silver Wind</span>,” said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea’s president and CEO. “The projects underscore our firm commitment to keep Silversea at the forefront of ultra-luxury cruising.”<br /><br />This is a smart move since many of Silversea’s competitors are expecting delivery of new ships during the next few years. It’s wonderful to see Silversea reacting to the feedback of their passengers and customizing ships to meet the needs of all luxury cruise enthusiasts.<br /><br />Don’t forget that Silversea also recently added the expedition ship <span>Prince Albert II </span>to its fold, so the company’s itineraries now encompass all seven continents.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of Silversea.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'silver_cloud_amp_wind_to','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/03/silver-cloud-wind-to-undergo-serious.html',5,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'1c0c1e86dcd4efdc7131835d4a1b8c76','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(290,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Introducing Silversea’s Silver Spirt',NULL,'2008-03-11 15:53:00','<a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rYSDOvK8I/AAAAAAAAAmc/6oiNM0QUyl4/s1600-h/Silver_Spirit.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rYSDOvK8I/AAAAAAAAAmc/6oiNM0QUyl4/s400/Silver_Spirit.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Officials at <a href=\"http://www.silversea.com/\">Silversea Cruises</a> took some time out at this week’s Seatrade Cruising Shipping Convention in Miami Beach to discuss its newly named all-suite ship: the <span>Silver Spirit</span>. Currently under construction at Fincantieri\'s Ancona shipyard, the 540-guest vessel is scheduled to join the fleet in late 2009. Renowned Italian architect Giacomo Mortola is overseeing the design of the 36,000-ton, ultra-luxury vessel. The company also revealed a number of architectural details.<br /><br />“<span>Silver Spirit</span>’s design will mirror the distinctive silhouette of our existing ships and will offer the same standards of luxury that our guests have come to expect,” said Manfredi Lefebvre, Silversea’s chairman. “But there will also be several significant enhancements, including a new supper club, an Asian-themed restaurant, and an expanded spa facility that will rival the best spas on land.”<br /><br />The new ship will also feature those dining venues that have become favorites of Silversea guests, such as The Restaurant, the elegant main dining room; The Wine Restaurant, where the menu celebrates the most rarefied vintages; and the Pool Grille, offering casual poolside dining.<br /><br />The <span>Silver Spirit</span> is being built with an eye toward what current passengers want. There are 270 ocean-view suites with an increased number of the most popular suite categories. There will be 26 Silver Suites, 222 Veranda Suites, six Grand Suites, and two Owner’s Suites. All but 12 suites will have verandas.<br /><br />The new Spa at Silversea, which premiered aboard <span>Silver Shadow</span>’s World Cruise last year, will be rolled out aboard the new vessel in grand style with dramatically more space available to incorporate new design elements.<br /><br />And <span>Silver Spirit </span>will feature many of the same public lounges found on the line’s existing ships, including an Observation Lounge, Vista Lounge (similar to Panorama Lounge on current fleet), Show Lounge, Humidor, and Pool Bar, plus a new Lobby Bar styled along the lines of a European hotel, featuring Italian coffees complemented by champagne, wine and spirits—all served at no charge.<br /><br />Silversea’s forthcoming <span>Silver Spirit</span> will be one to watch. Mark your calendars for a December 2009 debut!<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Illustration courtesy of Silversea.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'introducing_silversea_s_silver_spirt','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/03/introducing-silverseas-silver-spirt.html',6,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'605217fda2e1992656c702722950c020','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(291,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','New Music CD from SeaDream',NULL,'2008-03-05 09:03:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rahjOvK9I/AAAAAAAAAmk/iw3Hd20jltQ/s1600-h/cd_cover_front.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R9rahjOvK9I/AAAAAAAAAmk/iw3Hd20jltQ/s400/cd_cover_front.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>I guess what they say is true: Everyone wants to be in the music business. <a href=\"http://www.seadream.com/\">SeaDream Yacht Club</a> recently developed its own 12-track music CD, titled <span>Dream</span>, to capture the spirit of a SeaDream voyage.<br /><br />Producers put together an eclectic mix of pop, rock, jazz, soul, R&amp;B, and even some Bossa Nova. Order the CD now from SeaDream’s Boutique and you’ll hear Norah Jones, Bebel Gilberto, Marc Broussard, Samantha James, Erin Bode, James Hunter, and terrific musicians.<br /><br />The <span>Dream </span>CD was spearheaded by Adrienne d’Annunzio, manager of the SeaDream Club and Charity Programs and is available for sale onboard <span>SeaDream I</span> and <span>II</span> and online via SeaDream’s Boutique at <a href=\"http://www.seadream.com/\">www.Seadream.com</a>. Price is $16.98, not including shipping.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of SeaDream.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'new_music_cd_from_seadream','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/03/new-music-cd-from-seadream-yacht-club.html',7,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'e6a7044f03547f10efef56ae6949fdb1','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(292,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Seabourn 2-for-1 Biz Class + 40% Off Cruise Fare',NULL,'2008-01-20 13:33:00','This deal from <a href=\"http://www.seabourn.com\">Seabourn</a>—offering 2-for-1 business class airfare <span>and</span> a 40% discount on select European cruises—definitely made me consider adding a Seabourn voyage to my 2008 vacation plans.<br /><br />Ten European cruises—ranging from nine to 15 days—aboard the <span>Pride, Spirit</span>, and <span>Legend</span> are part of this deal. According to Seabourn, the 2-for-1 biz airfare deal is a $5,800 value. The fact that you can combine it with the 40% off cruise fare deal means some potentially big savings.<br /><br />The airfares are available roundtrip from 38 North American gateways to voyages embarking between March and July, 2008 in Lisbon, Venice, London, Copenhagen, Rome, Nice, and Barcelona and exploring itineraries in the Adriatic, the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Western Europe, and Norwegian fjords.<br /><br />According to Seabourn president and CEO Pamela Conover, \"A Seabourn cruise already offers the best value in luxury travel to Europe this year. The comfort and convenience of business class travel is something that our guests use and value,\" she continued, \"So this offer is consistent with the style they have come to associate with Seabourn.\"<br /><br />For more information, talk with your travel agent or visit <a href=\"http://www.seabourn.com/OnOffer/OnOffer_Details.asp?ID=81&amp;Main=OnOffer\">Seabourn\'s website</a>.',NULL,0,0,-1,'seabourn_2-for-1_biz_class_40','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/seabourn-2-for-1-biz-class-40-off.html',8,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'1418cc137ca32c1aa56717b8ed77cc78','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(293,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Follow Queen Victoria\'s World Cruise',NULL,'2008-01-20 12:57:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R5OQcVt4YpI/AAAAAAAAAmE/rsVsrhMIc6c/s1600-h/QVFLLrendezvous.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R5OQcVt4YpI/AAAAAAAAAmE/rsVsrhMIc6c/s400/QVFLLrendezvous.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>I don\'t often write about <a href=\"http://www.cunard.com/\">Cunard</a>, but there\'s an excellent blog you should bookmark if you\'re interested in this line: <a href=\"http://www.blogger.com/www.thebonvivanttraveler.blogspot.com\">The Bon Vivant Traveler</a>. Two young New Yorkers are enjoying a world cruise honeymoon aboard the <span>Queen Victoria</span> and they\'re blogging about their adventures.<br /><br />Their 105-day journey, which begain on January 13, will take them from New York to the Caribbean before transitting the Panama Canal to Costa Rica and then on to Mexico. A quick stop in Los Angeles and then its across the Pacific to Hawaii, French Polynesia, Australia, and New Zealand. By early March, they\'ll visit Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, and India. On March 31, they\'ll begin calling upon ports in the Middle East, including Dubai (UAE), Oman, and Egypt before island hopping across Greece on their way to Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The world cruise comes to an end in Southampton, England. However, these intrepid bloggers will transfer from the <span>Queen Victoria</span> to the <span>Queen Mary 2 </span>to make the transatlantic trip back home to Manhattan.<br /><br />Happy cruising, guys!<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo of </span>Queen Victoria <span>calling on Fort Lauderdale is courtesy of Cunard.</span></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'follow_queen_victoria_s_world','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/follow-queen-victorias-world-cruise.html',9,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'ee210f088528486fb25c55dc1bd3b0a1','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(294,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','10 Years of Regent\'s Paul Gauguin in the South Pacific',NULL,'2008-01-18 13:22:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R5OSGFt4YqI/AAAAAAAAAmM/dgAIwHjhbNI/s1600-h/Bora-Bora.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R5OSGFt4YqI/AAAAAAAAAmM/dgAIwHjhbNI/s400/Bora-Bora.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.rssc.com\">Regent</a> has a lot to be happy about these days, including their recent celebration in the South Pacific to commemorate <span>Paul Gauguin</span>\'s 10 years sailing these islands.<br /><br />Fireworks lit up the sky above Papeete Harbor in Tahiti and fireboats streamed water skyward as French Polynesian Tourism Minister Marc Collins presented Mark Conroy, president of Regent, with a commemorative plaque honoring the ship’s 10th anniversary. Collins thanked Conroy for Regent’s decade of fidelity in deploying the popular vessel year-round in Tahiti. The ceremony was highlighted by traditional music and dancing.<br /><br />“From her very first cruise, <span>Paul Gauguin</span> has provided our guests with a unique experience featuring an authentic Polynesian flavor,” said Conroy. “We could not have achieved this success without the spirit of welcome and cooperation we continue to receive from the Tahitian government and people. Regent is proud to operate this magnificent ship in this beautiful destination, and to introduce Tahiti’s charms to discerning travelers from around the world.”<br /><br /><span>Paul Gauguin</span> first arrived in French Polynesia’s Society Islands in January 1998, having sailed from its shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, via the United States mainland and the Hawaiian Islands. Arriving amidst much fanfare, <span>Paul Gauguin</span> ushered in a new era of cruising in Tahiti, introducing outstanding onboard luxury and gracious, friendly service combined with generous and insightful exploration into Tahiti’s cultures and unrivaled natural beauty.<br /><br /><span>Paul Gauguin</span> has completed more than 400 South Pacific cruises, carrying more than 120,000 guests and contributing tens of millions of tourism dollars to Tahiti’s economy. Since its construction, the ship has undergone four refurbishments at a cost of more than $15 million.<br /><br /><span>Paul Gauguin</span> offers year-around, seven-night cruises departing roundtrip from Papeete to Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Moorea. The ship’s schedule also features 11-night voyages that include Rangiroa and Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands; 10-night cruises that include Huahine; and 14-night journeys that include Fatu Hiva and Ua Huka in the Marquesas and the remote Cook Islands. Seven-day rates start at $2,195 per person.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo of Bora Bora is courtesy of Regent Seven Seas.</span></span>','2008-05-10 22:02:13',2,0,-1,'10_years_of_regent_s','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/10-years-of-regents-paul-gauguin-in.html',10,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'e7339b077e4ea457f66810c578bf6d6a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(295,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Crystal Tightens Rules for Smokers',NULL,'2008-01-08 14:37:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R4PSQ1t4YoI/AAAAAAAAAl8/JSJEfGGPhog/s1600-h/no-smoking-2-circle.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R4PSQ1t4YoI/AAAAAAAAAl8/JSJEfGGPhog/s200/no-smoking-2-circle.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com/\">Crystal Cruises </a>announced today that it will tighten smoking restrictions aboard all its ships. Smokers will not be happy about this news; non-smokers will be thrilled.<br /><br />Beginning in May 2008, Crystal Cruises is prohibiting smoking on verandahs of all staterooms and suites aboard <span>Crystal Symphony</span> and <span>Crystal Serenity</span>. <br /><br />Most areas of Crystal ships have been non-smoking for several years, including restaurants and the main entertainment lounges.  Non-smoking areas dominate most bars and lounges, although there are some tables that permit smoking.  Cigarette smoking is permitted in private accommodations, although pipe-smoking and cigars are only permitted in the Connoisseur Club and most open decks.<br /><br />According to Crystal Cruises\' president Gregg Michel, \"The majority of our guests are non-smoking, and travelers are used to more non-smoking environments today. We respect that smoking is a personal lifestyle decision but there is growing discomfort from non-smokers about verandah smoke negatively impacting the enjoyment of their personal outdoor living space.\"<br /><br />As with the current policy, guests who do not observe the non-smoking policy will first be asked to comply. Failure to do so can result in a guest being asked to leave the ship at his/her own expense.<br /><br />The new smoking policy takes effect with the May 7, 2008 London-to-Rome cruise on <span>Crystal Serenity</span> and the May 25, 2008 Athens-to-London cruise on <span>Crystal Symphony</span>.','2009-03-10 00:57:40',2,0,-1,'crystal_tightens_rules_for_smokers','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/crystal-tightens-rules-for-smokers.html',11,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'4bf9d09e19b3f0f2378906f8265abdc3','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(296,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Wind Star Upgrades Completed',NULL,'2008-01-08 09:24:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R4OKh1t4YnI/AAAAAAAAAl0/HMq8evcqeHM/s1600-h/fac_crop.JPG.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R4OKh1t4YnI/AAAAAAAAAl0/HMq8evcqeHM/s400/fac_crop.JPG.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Over the past year or so, <a href=\"http://www.windstarcruises.com/\">Windstar Cruises</a> has spent several million dollars upgrading each of its ships with what it calls \"Degrees of Difference\" enhancements. This cruise line is one of my favorites and the enhancements to the <span>Wind Surf </span>blew me away when I sailed with Windstar last March.<br /><br />Now, it\'s the <span>Wind Star</span>\'s turn to shine. The 148-guest, four-masted msy <span>Wind Star</span> is the last ship to receive this special treatment. Upgrades include remodeled bathrooms in all staterooms, an expanded beauty salon, and a refurbished lounge.<br /><br />In your stateroom, you\'ll immediately recognize the changes to the bathroom that now includes new fixtures, glass shelving, new cabinets, granite countertops, porcelain sinks, and a magnifying mirror. The teak floors were kept and refinished. Full length mirrors and slippers are also a new addition to the staterooms.<br /><br />In the Lounge, the bar was relocated to a central and visible location near the back of the room and refreshed with reupholstered furniture, new carpet, ceiling, lighting, and wall coverings.<br /><br />The Salon moved from deck one to deck three by the Lounge providing a more serene spa experience with space for relaxation. Expanding into the area vacated by the bar, salon space doubles with a new waiting area, two separate massage rooms, an area for facials and hair/nail treatments, and pedicure chair. The number of massage appointments available for guests has doubled and new spa treatments have been added including La Therapie Hydralift Facial, Elemis Aroma Spa Seaweed Massage, and Ionithermie Cellulite Reduction Program. The expanded spa menu turns the former salon into a complete spa facility.<br /><br />Other additions in guest areas include new tables and chairs in the Veranda, a new couch and ceiling in the Lobby and upgrades to public bathrooms. In the Pool Bar, a new bottle display area, new lighting, and wall and ceiling coverings update the look. Upgrades were also completed for the technical operations of the ship.<br /><br />The <span>Wind Star</span> will sail roundtrip from Costa Rica January through March 2008 with a limited amount of Panama Canal cruises in the spring and winter, returning to the Greek Isles from May to October and offering a few Mediterranean itineraries in late spring and late fall.<br /><br />The 312-guest <span>Wind Surf </span>completed Degrees of Difference upgrades in December 2006 and the 148-guest msy <span>Wind Spirit </span>completed upgrades in April 2007.','2008-05-02 19:11:54',2,0,-1,'wind_star_upgrades_completed','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/wind-star-upgrades-completed.html',12,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,NULL,NULL,'0ec50b1eea701c7aa827acfb7a498b93','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(297,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Regent Dumps Gold Points as of 3/31/08',NULL,'2008-01-04 08:36:00','If you\'re a <a href=\"http://www.rsscc.com\">Regent Seven Seas</a> cruiser with a Gold Points Reward account, you need to be aware of important program changes. As of January 2, 2008, Gold Points Reward Network announced it is changing to a redemption-only program. The last day to earn Gold Points at any network partner or by shopping <a href=\"http://www.goldpoints.com\">goldpoints.com</a> is March 31, 2008.<br /><br />Also effective January 2, 2008, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will no longer be issuing Gold Points for any new bookings, or adding Gold Points to any existing bookings. Gold Points do not expire. However, <span>redemption of Gold Points with Regent will end on March 31, 2008</span> and you will only be able to redeem your Gold Points at www.goldpoints.com or www.points.com starting April 1, 2008.<br /><br />Regent does have a process in place to redeem your existing Gold Points for future cruise credits. Here are the <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/goldpointsredemption\">details from Regent\'s website</a>:<br /><br /><span>GOLD POINTS REWARD NETWORK</span><br /><br /><span>Changes in Gold Points Reward Network effective Janaury 2, 2008</span><br /><br /><span>GOLD POINTS REWARD NETWORK CHANGE</span><br />On January 2, 2008, Gold Points Reward Network announced it is changing to a redemption-only program. The last day to earn Gold Points at any network partner or by shopping goldpoints.com is March 31, 2008. Also effective January 2, 2008, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will no longer be issuing Gold Points for any new bookings, or adding Gold Points to any existing bookings.<br /><br /><span>REDEMPTION OF GOLD POINTS ACCUMULATED PRIOR TO JANUARY 2, 2008</span><br />Gold Points do not expire. However, redemption of Gold Points with RSSC will end on March 31, 2008 and you will only be able to redeem your Gold Points at www.goldpoints.com or www.points.com starting April 1, 2008. In order to assist you in using your Gold Points, RSSC has changed its redemption process.<br /><br />Until March 31, 2008, RSSC is offering a one-time opportunity to acquire Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) with your Gold Points, even if you do not have a cruise booked with us yet. Only one FCC can be purchased per Gold Points Reward Network account, and the FCC can be redeemed with RSSC on bookings made up to one year after issuance. Simply fill out <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/rss/Word%20documents/Redemption%20of%20GP%20Form.doc\">this form</a> and e-mail it to RSSCRESV@regentexperience.com or fax it to (402) 501-5599. Please allow up to 10 days for processing.<br /><br />The chart below details how much FCC can be acquired with your Gold Points:<br /><br /><div><span>Points needed for Future Cruise Credits  </span><br />50,000 = $200 FCC<br />100,000 = $400 FCC<br />200,000 = $600 FCC<br />300,000 = $800 FCC<br />400,000 = $1,000 FCC            <br /></div><div><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>$200 will be added to the FCC for each subsequent 100,000 Gold Points over 400,000.</span></span><br /></div><br /><br /><span>2008 AND 2009 BOOKINGS PRIOR TO JANUARY 2, 2008</span><br />In addition, 2008 and 2009 sailings booked prior to January 2, 2008 and associated with a Gold Points member number will be issued a FCC per the schedule below once the cruise is completed. <span>These FCCs are equal to or better than what you would have received through the Gold Points Rewards Network. </span>You will have one year from issuance to book a cruise with this FCC as opposed to using Gold Points by March 31, 2008. (If a current eligible booking is cancelled or rebooked to a different sailing, it will no longer be eligible for this FCC.)<br /><br /><div><span>Points That Would Have Been Earned (per person)  </span>                               <br />Up to 25,000 = $100 FCC<br />25,001 - 50,000 = $200 FCC<br />50,001 - 75,000 = $300 FCC<br />75,001 - 100,000 = $400 FCC<br />100,001 - 150,000 = $500 FCC<br />150,001 - 200,000 = $600 FCC<br /></div><div><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>$100 will be added to the FCC for each subsequent 50,000 Gold Points.</span></span><br /></div><br />If you need assistance with your Gold Points account, including your balance, please visit <a href=\"http://www.goldpoints.com\">www.goldpoints.com</a>.',NULL,0,0,-1,'regent_dumps_gold_points_as','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/regent-dumps-gold-points-as-of-33108.html',13,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'0628afad9137d09a4eb5e8e0a654b79b','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(298,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','2-for-1 Alaska from Regent Seven Seas',NULL,'2008-01-02 20:32:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3w7gFt4YmI/AAAAAAAAAls/iNUkPCewtw8/s1600-h/RETAIL_LARGE_809.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3w7gFt4YmI/AAAAAAAAAls/iNUkPCewtw8/s400/RETAIL_LARGE_809.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>On December 27, I wrote about the upcoming Alaska cruise season. Today, <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com\">Regent Seven Seas</a> announced a terrific 2-for-1 deal for three of their fantastic Alaskan itineraries on the <span>Mariner</span>.<br /><br />The embarkation dates you\'ll need to mark on your calendar are May 27, June 11, and June 25.<br /><div><br /></div> If interested, you\'ll need to book your suite no later than January 12, 2008. Talk with your travel agent or call Regent Seven Seas Cruises at (877) 505-5370. Reference referral source C4CEA068M. <img src=\"file:/Users/andrearotondo/Desktop/RETAIL_LARGE_809.jpg\" alt=\"\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'2-for-1_alaska_from_regent_seven','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/01/2-for-1-alaska-from-regent-seven-seas.html',14,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'156083e949b20bb715ad8300ceb193a0','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(299,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','MAXjet Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy',NULL,'2007-12-28 10:48:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3UcH1t4YkI/AAAAAAAAAlc/8mLBhb7Xpc0/s1600-h/white_logo.gif\"><img src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3UcH1t4YkI/AAAAAAAAAlc/8mLBhb7Xpc0/s320/white_logo.gif\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>On Christmas Eve, <a href=\"http://www.maxjet.com/\">MAXjet</a>—the all business class airline—filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and halted all flights. Here\'s the announcement directly from MAXjet president William Stockbridge.<br /><br /><blockquote>Dear Friends of MAXjet:<br /><br />It is with deep regret that I must inform you that MAXjet filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy on 24 December 2007. With today’s fuel prices and the resulting impact on the credit climate for airlines, we are forced to take this drastic measure. Our top priority is to assist our customers, particularly those who already have begun their travel with us, in securing alternative flight accommodations.<br /><br />MAXjet has contracted with Eos Airlines for seats on Eos’ scheduled all-Premium service to accommodate passengers awaiting a return flight between New York and London. Passengers needing return travel between London, Los Angeles and Las Vegas will be contacted regarding their flight re-accommodations. Any customers who choose to make flight accommodations directly should seek a refund from their point of purchase (credit card or travel agency) for the unused leg of their journey.<br /><br />We have also secured hotel rooms in London, New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles through early January 2008 which we will provide to affected passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted.<br /><br />On behalf of the entire MAXjet family, we extend our apologies to you for the inconvenience. We are extremely saddened to discontinue a service that we so passionately believe in, and we thank our loyal flyers who helped build MAXjet since our start in 2005.<br /><br /><br />Sincerely,<br /><br />William D. Stockbridge<br />President and CEO </blockquote><br /><span>For MAXjet customers who have started travel...</span><br />MAXjet is contacting customers with their new travel itineraries in priority order based on date of departure. Please contact MAXjet Customer Care at 1-866-837-9880 or intransit@maxjet.com<br /><br />Any customers who choose to make flight accommodations directly should seek a refund from their point of purchase (credit card or travel agency) for the unused leg of their journey.<br /><br /><br /><span>For MAXjet customers who have not yet begun their travel, but have booked tickets...</span><br />Seek a refund directly from your point of purchase (credit card or travel agency).<br /><br />For further information, passengers who have not yet begun travel may contact 1-888-435-9629 or info@maxjet.com',NULL,0,0,-1,'maxjet_files_chapter_11_bankruptcy','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/maxjet-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy.html',15,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'144d59169ec3809eed6e3f79f4145d5d','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(300,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','2008 Alaskan Cruise Season—Luxury Style',NULL,'2007-12-27 14:27:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3P86Vt4YhI/AAAAAAAAAlE/jcxrfeb4Okg/s1600-h/MAR_in_AK_low.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3P86Vt4YhI/AAAAAAAAAlE/jcxrfeb4Okg/s400/MAR_in_AK_low.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a>Want to cruise Alaska in 2008? If you wish to do so aboard a luxury vessel, now is the time to snag a deal before the premium suites and discount deals are snatched up. Yes, it\'s only the beginning of winter and Alaska is the last place you may want to visit right now—you\'re probably counting down to your winter Caribbean cruise instead—but the allure of glaciers and whale watching is too much to ignore during the summer months. Even early fall can be a fantastic time to visit our northwest neighbors.<br /><br />There are only two luxury lines heading to this area in 2008: <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/voyage/search.do?region=ALASKA\">Regent Seven Seas</a> and <a href=\"http://www.silversea.com/voyage.aspx?id=335&amp;menu_id=6&amp;page_id=Voyages&amp;page_type=Alaska&amp;menu_type=Destinations\">Silversea</a>. If you want to sail with a high-end line, don\'t delay in booking. Otherwise, you may need to look toward a premium line instead. <a href=\"http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-destinations/alaska-cruise\">Holland America</a>, <a href=\"http://www.celebritycruises.com/destinations/home.do;jsessionid=0000ozPSg-Dd5FG16Rj_mKeFI3X:12hdebebp?dest=ALCAN&amp;cS=SIDENAV\">Celebrity</a>, and <a href=\"http://www.princess.com/learn/destinations/alaska/index.html\">Princess</a> are much more entrenched in Alaska than the luxury cruise lines. Small ship vendors <a href=\"http://www.cruisewest.com/destinations/alaska/\">Cruise West</a> and <a href=\"http://www.amsafari.com/alaska.html\">American Safari Cruises</a> may also pique your interest.<br /><br />Here\'s a look at what Regent and Silversea are offering for the 2008 Alaska cruise season.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/\"><span>Regent Seven Seas</span></a><br />Regent\'s 700-guest <span>Seven Seas Mariner</span> plies the Alaskan waters between mid May and early September 2008. The seven-day itinerary between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. (or vice versa) hits the following ports and/or sights of interest:<br /><div> <ul>   <li><span>Hubbard Glacier</span> </li>   <li><span>Sitka, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Tracy Arm</span> </li>   <li><span>Juneau, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Skagway, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Ketchikan, Alaska</span><br />   <br />    <div>If you book certain dates, you\'ll receive free economy air or $500 off the rack rate. Dates include May 27; June 11, 18, and 25; July 2; August 13, 20, and 27; and September 3. Rates start at $3,895 per person.<br />    </div>   </li> </ul> </div><br /><a href=\"http://www.silversea.com/\"><span>Silversea</span></a><br />Silversea\'s Alaska season begins on May 31st this year and ends with its Vancouver to Los Angeles itinerary on September 5. Nine-, 10- and 12-day itineraries are offered aboard the more intimate 382-passenger <span>Silver Shadow</span>. Rates start at $4,956 per person.<br /><br /><div><span>9-Day Vancouver to Vancouver</span><span><br /></span> <ul>   <li><span>The Inside Passage</span></li>   <li><span>Ketchikan, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Juneau, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Skagway, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Sawyer Glacier</span></li>   <li><span>Wrangell, Alaska</span></li> </ul>  <br /><span>10-Day Vancouver to San Francisco (or vice versa)</span><br /><ul>   <li><span>Sitka, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Haines, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Sawyer Glacier</span> </li>   <li><span>Juneau, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Ketchikan, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Prince Rupert, B.C.</span></li> </ul><br /><span>12-Day Los Angeles to Vancouver (or vice versa)*</span><br /><ul>   <li><span>San Francisco, CA</span> </li>   <li><span>Victoria, B.C.</span> </li>   <li><span>Ketchikan, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Sitka, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Sawyer Glacier</span> </li>   <li><span>Skagway, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>Wrangell, Alaska</span> </li>   <li><span>The Inside Passage</span></li> </ul> </div><br /><span><span\"font-size:85%;\">*There is also one 12-day roundtrip intinerary out of San Francisco.</span><br /><br /></span>When sailing Alaska, I personally prefer booking a balcony cabin. There\'s something magical about sitting on your private balcony—in a very warm bathrobe, of course—as you keep your eyes peeled for whales and exotic birds and other creatures you rarely see at home. The Silver Suite would be my pick aboard the Silversea <span>Silver Shadow</span>. On Regent\'s <span>Mariner</span>, the Master Suite can\'t be beat since you get a very spacious forward balcony—727 square feet—plus a smaller 71-square-foot side balcony. I also like the Horizon Suites at the aft for their very spacious balconies.<br /><br />Visiting Alaska is an exhilarating experience! So, enjoy your planned winter getaway and then start thinking about your summertime holiday. Alaska may be just the refreshing change you\'ll need when the lazy dog days of July roll around. Happy cruising! <span>—Andrea M. Rotondo<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\">Photo of Regent </span></span><span><span\"font-size:85%;\">Mariner </span></span><span><span\"font-size:85%;\">in Alaska courtesy of Regent Seven Seas.</span><br /></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'2008_alaskan_cruise_season_luxury','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/2008-alaskan-cruise-seasonluxury-style.html',16,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'79b81175cd3d4f4417dec199af904b09','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(301,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Crystal Partners with Eos for New Air Options',NULL,'2007-12-19 14:35:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3QCilt4YjI/AAAAAAAAAlU/2UImMp_YQ-w/s1600-h/13sleeping.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R3QCilt4YjI/AAAAAAAAAlU/2UImMp_YQ-w/s400/13sleeping.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.eosairlines.com/flyeos/overview/home.jsf\">Eos Airlines</a> is no stranger to travelers flying between New York\'s JFK and London\'s Stansted airport. The relative newcomer offers 48 comfortable \"suites\" on a 757 that\'s usually outfitted for 220 individuals. Your personal cabin is 21 square feet of personal space and when it\'s time for bed, you\'ll enjoy a 6\' 6\" lie-flat bed. The airline proudly touts that its service is more like a private corporate jet than a traditional consumer airline.<br /><br />Eos offers a wealth of amenities to make your trip comfortable...from convenient airport lounges to gourmet inflight meals and quality onboard entertainment. They\'ve certainly found several ways to take the stress out of a travel day!<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.crystalcruises.com\">Crystal Cruises</a> announced today that it has partnered with Eos for new air upgrade options for its Western and Northern Europe itineraries in 2008. (Other upgrade options include Premium Economy service via <a href=\"http://www.britishairways.com\">British Airways</a> and <a href=\"http://www.flysas.com\">Scandinavian Airways</a>.)<br /><br />The Eos upgrade is $1,300 more each way than Crystal\'s round-trip coach air/sea fare. Round-trip air add-on fares for Premium Economy are just $700 to $1,200 more than Crystal\'s coach air/sea fares.<br /><br /><span\"font-style: italic;font-size:85%;\" >Photo courtesy of Eos Airlines.</span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'crystal_partners_with_eos_for','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/crystal-partners-with-eos-for-new-air.html',17,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'876d8c2e28b0f81f4fbdcb47e867f182','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(302,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','A Personal Note from Regent\'s Mark Conroy',NULL,'2007-12-11 22:12:00','Here\'s a bit more about information about the Apollo acquisition of <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com\">Regent Seven Seas Cruises</a>. The following is the text of an e-mail Regent president Mark S. Conroy sent to the cruise line\'s loyal fans.<br /><br /><div><span>E-mail from Regent to Its Past Passengers</span><br /></div><br /><span>We have some exciting news to share with you about our company. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is being purchased by Apollo Management LP, a New York-based investment group, from Minneapolis-based Carlson. </span><span><br /><br />Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will be placed under the ownership of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. (PCH), a corporation controlled by Apollo which will manage certain cruise portfolio assets of Apollo. NCL Corporation will remain a separate holding outside of PCH.</span><span><br /><br />Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain a wholly independent brand under my guidance as president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and will continue to operate from its Fort Lauderdale, Florida headquarters, and reservations will continue to operate from Omaha, Nebraska. Oceania Cruises will remain in its Miami headquarters, headed by Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. Both Bob and I will report directly to Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.</span><span><br /><br />In addition to the strong brand recognition and award-winning products of both brands, there is something else we both share - our commitment to our travel partners. The success of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and our new sister brand has been driven by you and the agency community as a whole. Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises are both renowned for their relationship with the agency community and that is something that will only get stronger as we build new ships, chart new destinations and explore new opportunities with our travel partners.</span><span><br /><br />For you, this change of ownership will not have any impact on your relationship with Regent Seven Seas Cruises or your clients\' experience on our ships. So the key messages I wish to share with you are: </span><span><br /><br /></span> <ul>   <li><span>Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to operate as a stand-alone brand<br />   <br /> </span></li>   <li><span>We will continue to deliver the same great experiences that your clients have enjoyed and that have made us successful<br />   <br /> </span></li>   <li><span>There are no plans to make changes to our existing offerings or published schedules<br />   <br /> </span></li>   <li><span>Our core management team and key personnel on land and at sea will remain intact<br />   <br /> </span></li>   <li><span>We will partner with Carlson to continue to grow the Regent brand at sea and on land</span></li> </ul> <span><br />In addition to our plans to grow Regent at sea, Regent Hotels &amp; Resorts will continue to operate and grow as part of Carlson Hotels Worldwide, the world\'s ninth largest hotel company. The Regent brand will continue to offer to our guests the very best in luxury service and travel experiences, including the finest personalized service and warm and friendly hospitality worldwide. </span><span><br /><br />We are excited about the future of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and we will keep working with you to provide the very best luxury cruise experience for your clients. Thank you for your continued support of Regent.</span><span><br /><br />Kindest personal regards,</span><span><br /><br />Mark S. Conroy</span><br /> <span>President, Regent Seven Seas Cruises</span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'a_personal_note_from_regent','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/personal-note-from-regents-mark-conroy.html',18,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'d4ed317a94f6626a1a8f58d246c48139','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(303,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','It\'s Official: Apollo Acquires Regent',NULL,'2007-12-10 12:57:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R17SDds001I/AAAAAAAAAk0/BUOpHd-lOpY/s1600-h/Regent_SSC_Black.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/R17SDds001I/AAAAAAAAAk0/BUOpHd-lOpY/s320/Regent_SSC_Black.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><br />This has been brewing for weeks, but it\'s finally official: Apollo Management has acquired <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/\">Regent Seven Seas Cruises</a>. Here\'s the press release that was issued this morning:<br /><br /><div><span>Apollo Management L.P. Acquires Regent Seven Seas</span><span></span><span></span><br /></div><br />Minneapolis-based Carlson and Apollo Management L.P. (Apollo) today announced that Apollo has agreed to acquire Carlson\'s Regent Seven Seas Cruises operations. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2008, subject to normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approval. The cruise operations will continue as a key part of the global Regent brand.<br /><br />Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will be placed under the ownership of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Inc. (PCH), a corporation controlled by Apollo which will manage certain cruise portfolio assets of Apollo. NCL Corporation will remain a separate holding outside of PCH.<br /><br />Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain a wholly independent brand under the guidance of Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and will continue to operate from its Fort Lauderdale, Florida headquarters, and Oceania Cruises will remain in its Miami headquarters, headed by Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises. Both Binder and Conroy will report directly to Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.<br /><br />The transaction is part of a unified strategy undertaken by Apollo and Carlson to expand their respective core cruise and hotel operations, and become the world\'s preeminent operators of luxury hotels, resorts and cruises. Carlson will retain ownership of the master Regent brand, along with the worldwide operations of Regent Hotels &amp; Resorts.<br /><br />\"Through this proposed investment, Apollo has demonstrated its deep commitment to the Regent brand and the continuing growth of the Regent cruise line fleet,\" said Carlson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Marilyn Carlson Nelson. \"As owners of the Regent brand, we remain committed to expanding its scope and success both on land and at sea. We are confident the Regent cruise brand will continue to develop along with and lead the industry segment, which has expanded dramatically since 1992, when we launched our first ship. The potential for continued expansion of the luxury Regent hotel brand, and our entire hotel portfolio, is enormous.\"<br /><br />Apollo\'s acquisition of Regent Seven Seas Cruises strengthens its position in the cruise industry with the addition of an award-winning luxury cruise brand to its cruise portfolio. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to focus on the luxury segment of the marketplace by offering a six-star, all-inclusive experience, and Oceania Cruises will continue to lead the Upper Premium segment.<br /><br />\"Everyone at Regent Seven Seas Cruises is delighted with the formation of this new family of companies. With the tremendous financial resources of Apollo available to us, Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to strengthen our position as the leading luxury cruise brand. Our valued guests and travel agent partners will experience a seamless transition as we continue to deliver world-class cruise vacation experiences. We look forward to continued success and the use of the new financial resources available to accelerate our future growth,\" stated Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.<br /><br />\"Regent Seven Seas is the largest, most successful luxury cruise brand, and we look forward to the growth opportunities this addition offers consumers, travel agents and the team members at both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises,\" stated Steve Martinez, a partner with Apollo.<br /><br />Six times chosen as the world\'s top-rated cruise line by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazine, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers voyages to all corners of the globe aboard its fleet of modern, six-star rated, luxury vessels. In addition to the all-suite, all-balcony, 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager and all-suite, all-balcony, 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner, the fleet also includes the 490-guest Seven Seas Navigator, with 90 percent balcony suites, and the 330-guest Paul Gauguin, a ship dedicated to sailing the South Pacific.<br /><br />\"Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers an exceptional product, and its superb shipboard and shoreside teams have built an enviable reputation as the foremost luxury cruise brand. The brand awareness and market presence of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will offer our discerning travelers and travel agents worldwide the most vibrant and diverse range of cruise experiences, serving the broadest spectrum of spectacular destinations,\" stated Frank Del Rio, chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings.<br /><br />Lehman Brothers Inc. served as financial advisor to Prestige Cruise Holdings on the transaction, and Goldman, Sachs &amp; Co. served as financial advisor to Carlson.<br /><br />Carlson announced today that it has named Bjorn Gullaksen as president, Regent Luxury Group. Gullaksen has most recently served as executive vice president for Carlson Hotels Worldwide Managed Hotels &amp; Resorts in the Americas. He will continue to oversee the managed hotel and resort operations in his new role. A hospitality industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience, he previously has served as the company\'s executive vice president of Full Service Hotels, including Radisson Hotels &amp; Resorts and Park Plaza Hotels &amp; Resorts.<br /><br />Under Gullaksen, a brand council, with leadership from the cruise company and Carlson Hotels Worldwide, will oversee the luxury standards of the Regent brand in all of its applications globally.<br /><br />Jay Witzel, president and CEO of Carlson Hotels Worldwide and CEO of Regent, said Regent Hotels &amp; Resorts will continue to grow globally as a leading luxury brand in the hotel industry. Following the completion of the cruise line transaction, Regent Hotels &amp; Resorts will be operated as part of Carlson Hotels Worldwide, one of the world\'s top 10 hotel companies. The current global portfolio includes Regent properties in Beijing; Shanghai; Singapore; Taipei; Berlin; Zagreb, Croatia; and Turks and Caicos. The company\'s North American expansion plans also include The Regent Bal Harbour, Florida, scheduled to open in early 2008 and The Regent Boston at Battery Wharf, also scheduled to open in 2008. Future global developments include properties in Bordeaux, France; Bangkok, Thailand; The Republic of Maldives; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Papagayo, Costa Rica; and Dubrovnik, Croatia.<br /><br /><span>ABOUT APOLLO MANAGEMENT L.P.:</span><br />Founded in 1990, Apollo is a leading private equity and capital markets investor with more than 17 years of experience investing across the capital structure of leveraged companies. The firm employs over 140 professionals and has offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Singapore, Frankfurt and Paris. Since its inception, Apollo has managed more than $28 billion of capital across a wide variety of industries both domestically and internationally. The firm\'s most recent private equity fund and its co-investment affiliate have capital commitments of approximately $11.6 billion. Investments in the leisure and hospitality industries have included Harrah\'s Entertainment (pending), AMC Entertainment, Sirius Satellite Radio, Wyndham International, and Vail Resorts. Apollo is already active in the cruise industry, having invested in the upper premium Oceania Cruises brand earlier this year, and is scheduled to shortly close on a committed investment in NCL Corporation Ltd (\"NCL\"), parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line and NCL America . Since investing in Oceana, Apollo has supported the ordering of two new ships worth approximately $1 billion.<br /><br /><span>ABOUT <a href=\"http://www.carlson.com/\">CARLSON</a>:</span><br />Carlson is a global leader in the hotel, restaurant, business and leisure travel, and marketing industries.<br /><br />The Carlson family of brands and services include: Regent Hotels &amp; Resorts(R), Radisson Hotels &amp; Resorts(R), Park Plaza Hotels &amp; Resorts, Country Inn &amp; Suites By Carlson, Park Inn(R) hotels, Regent Seven Seas Cruises(R), T.G.I. Friday\'s(R) and Pick Up Stix(R) restaurants, Carlson Wagonlit Travel(R), Cruise Holidays(SM), All Aboard Travel, Cruise Specialists, Fly4Less.com, Cruise Deals.com, Dazzle Travel, Results! Travel(R), Carlson Destination Marketing Services, Carlson Leisure Travel Services, SeaMaster Cruises(R), SinglesCruise.com, Partners In Travel, Luxury Travel Network, Carlson Marketing, Peppers &amp; Rogers Group(R), and Gold Points Reward Network(R).<br /><br />Based in Minneapolis, Carlson\'s brands and services employ about 190,000 people in 150 countries and territories. Carlson\'s 2006 systemwide sales, including franchised operations, totaled $37.1 billion. <a href=\"http://carlson.com/\">http://www.carlson.com/</a>.<br /><br /><span>ABOUT <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/\">REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES</a>:</span><br />Regent Seven Seas Cruises(SM) (RSSC) operates a fleet of medium-sized luxury cruise ships that visit over 300 ports on all seven continents, including Antarctica. RSSC is consistently rated among the world\'s top three cruise lines by readers of luxury travel magazines. Travel professionals worldwide voted RSSC the \"World\'s Best Luxury Cruise Line\" for the third consecutive year as part of the 2006 Travel Weekly Awards and readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine voted RSSC \"World\'s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line\" in 2007. For further information, contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334. For brochures, call toll-free (866) 284-4079; for reservation information call toll-free (800) 285-1835; or visit: <a href=\"http://www.rssc.com/\">http://www.rssc.com/</a>.<br /><br />ABOUT <a href=\"http://www.oceaniacruises.com/\">OCEANIA CRUISES</a>:<br />Oceania Cruises(R) is the world\'s only upper-premium cruise line and offers a unique combination of the finest cuisine at sea, luxurious accommodations, exceptional personalized service and extraordinary value. As the leader in destination cruising, Oceania Cruises sails to more than 180 ports in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. Featuring three intimate and elegant mid-sized ships, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, the line will introduce two new mid-size Oceania Class ships to its award-winning fleet in 2010 and 2011. For additional information, to make a reservation, or to order a brochure, please contact your Travel Agent or Oceania Cruises at 800-531-5658. Visit us at <a href=\"http://www.oceaniacruises.com/\">http://www.oceaniacruises.com/</a>.',NULL,0,0,-1,'it_s_official_apollo_acquires','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2007/12/its-official-apollo-acquires-regent.html',19,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'1470b2f68800a0b4ef34cc6ffc40b949','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(332,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Paddington Bear to take to the sea for the first time in 50 years',NULL,'2008-04-18 10:45:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi03Mz20HI/AAAAAAAAAGw/j4hdD8u5uqI/s1600-h/paddington.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAi03Mz20HI/AAAAAAAAAGw/j4hdD8u5uqI/s400/paddington.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div align=\"justify\">Paddington Bear first arrived in London in 1958 and became Britain’s most loved bear. He arrived on a ship from deepest Peru and now 50 years on will set sail again when he joins <a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/ocean_village.phtml\">Ocean Village</a> as the cruise line’s fleet arrives in the Med for its summer season.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />From May 2008 Paddington Bear will become a permanent addition on board Ocean Village and Ocean Village Two. The marmalade loving bear will be a regular at the ships kid club ‘Base Camp’. Fans young and old will get the chance to meet, take photos and even have tea with the well travelled and much loved character.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Paddington Bear appeals to all generations and has sold more than 30 million copies of his book worldwide, in 30 languages and across 70 titles. Peruvian born Paddington will join classic children’s character Bagpuss who became a resident crew member last summer on both Ocean Village ships.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Ocean Village has an amazing array of children’s facilities including Base Camp and the teen Hideout zone, night nursery, dedicated youth team, SEGA Village and of course Paddington Bear and Bagpuss’ on board presence.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />To celebrate the arrival of Paddington Bear Ocean Village is offering free cruises for children travelling throughout Paddington’s 2008/2009 debut Caribbean seasons.* One or two children of any age can travel free n 7 and 14 night Caribbean cruise itineraries on the original Ocean Village ship or Ocean Village Two when sharing with two people paying the adult fare; flights included.</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />Gill Haynes, Head of Marketing Communications comments: “Though a renowned traveller, Paddington will join many of our first time cruisers this summer as he embarks on his debut Mediterranean season on board Ocean Village and Ocean Village Two. </div><br /><div align=\"justify\"></div><br /><div align=\"justify\">“With this exciting new addition we can offer families memorable experiences with not just one, but two of the most popular and enduring children’s characters of all time. Mums and Dads have grown up with both Paddington and Bagpuss and children today still adore them. These cult icons will delight and entertain the young, and young at heart, and once again demonstrate our commitment to providing imaginative, high-quality and family-friendly holidays.”</div><br /><div align=\"justify\"><br />*Kids travel free when sharing a cabin with two people paying the adult fare on Caribbean 2008/2009 holidays. Offer excludes Christmas and New Year and other holiday periods, is subject to availability and ends 31 May 2008.</div><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=i3BPFJG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=i3BPFJG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=Bkjdwog\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=Bkjdwog\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=aCeonig\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=aCeonig\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=vt6O6og\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=vt6O6og\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/272942279\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-09-22 08:50:52',4,0,-1,'paddington_bear_to_take_to','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/272942279/paddington-bear-to-take-to-sea-for.html',48,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'36847e2bbca151638c09500d5e1c5b50','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(334,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Royal Caribbean unveils first marvel of Project Genesis',NULL,'2008-04-16 11:53:00','<a href=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAYh98z20EI/AAAAAAAAAGY/npP_JGAPb04/s1600-h/genesis.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp1.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAYh98z20EI/AAAAAAAAAGY/npP_JGAPb04/s400/genesis.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a><br />   <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/royal_caribbean.phtml\">Royal <st1:place st=\"on\">Caribbean</st1:place></a> has unveiled the first architectural marvel of Project Genesis.<span>  </span>The latest evolution in ship design will bring the best of the land to sea with what will be known as <st1:place st=\"on\">Central  Park</st1:place>.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p><st1:place st=\"on\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Central Park</span></st1:place><span lang=\"EN-GB\"> is a revolutionary design which will involve the center of the ship opening to the sky, revealing lush tropical grounds spanning the length of a football pitch.<span>  </span>There will be a glorious public spaces with serene pathways, seasonal flower gardens and canopy trees.<span>  </span><st1:place st=\"on\">Central Park</st1:place> will provide cruisers with unique choices of outdoor space to further enhance their cruise experience.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p><st1:place st=\"on\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Central Park</span></st1:place><span lang=\"EN-GB\"> is one of the ship’s most ground breaking spaces and will be the first of seven special areas to be revealed on Project Genesis.<span>  </span>Each area will offer guests different features, depending on their personal style or mood.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p><st1:place st=\"on\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Central park</span></st1:place><span lang=\"EN-GB\"> will be an elegant and lively area with a “town square” feel to it, with a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere throughout the day to a gathering place for alfresco dining and entertainment in the evening.<span>  </span>Guests will have the chance to enjoy concerts and street performances, with an array of restaurants to choose from.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">The dining choices will range from fine dining to casual chic and will be an enjoyable social space for guests to gather.<span>  </span>150 <st1:place st=\"on\">Central Park</st1:place> will be an elegant option; or the more casual Central Park Café for a picnic lunch, where guests can sit outdoors and people watch.<span>  </span></span>Other dining choices will include: Giovanni’s Table, an Italian restaurant; Vintages wine bar; and Royal Caribbean’s signature Chops Grille steakhouse.</p><p><br /><span>  </span></p>  <p><o:p> </o:p></p>  <p>There will also be several bars scattered throughout, including the Canopy Bar which will be located at one of two impressive glass domed canopies.<span>  </span>The fantastically unique Rising Tide Bar is a feat of engineering as it will give guests the chance to enjoy a cocktail as the bar slowly ascends into <st1:place st=\"on\">Central Park</st1:place> and then back down again into the public space below.</p><p><br /></p>  <p><o:p> </o:p></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">The incredible area will be lined with balcony staterooms rising six decks high with views of the Park below and the sky above.<span>  </span>There will be a number of surprises to intrigue guests, including charming pathways and unusual plant life to be discovered, quiet reading corners, a chess garden with large scale pieces and a sculpture garden to name but a few.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p><st1:place st=\"on\">Central Park</st1:place> will feature upscale retail boutiques for discerning travelers, including specialty outlets such as The Parkside Gallery, showcasing original artwork for purchase, and Picture This, a portrait studio.</p><p><br /></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>  <p>“We are thrilled to debut <st1:place st=\"on\">Central Park</st1:place>, the first of many exciting neighborhoods on the Project Genesis ship, and a thrilling expression of the innovation and imagination for which Royal Caribbean is known,” said Richard Fain, Chairman &amp; CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.<span>  </span>“This ship is a quantum leap in architecture and design and will deliver an unparalleled vacation experience to all who sail with us.”</p><p><br /></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p>Project Genesis is currently on order with Aker Yards in Finland and delivery is projected for August 2010.<br /></o:p></span></p>  <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=FSUP4sG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=FSUP4sG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=oIwf64g\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=oIwf64g\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=p3UhdQg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=p3UhdQg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=gpUj1Lg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=gpUj1Lg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/271515351\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />',NULL,0,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_unveils_first_marvel','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/271515351/royal-caribbean-unveils-first-marvel-of.html',50,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'2c0eac5b13835e2b7e8a51b232aa8d5a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(333,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Queen Mary 2 coming to Greenock',NULL,'2008-04-17 16:19:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAiwlsz20GI/AAAAAAAAAGo/plagaRr49Oc/s1600-h/queen-mary-2.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAiwlsz20GI/AAAAAAAAAGo/plagaRr49Oc/s400/queen-mary-2.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><p><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SAeyXMz20FI/AAAAAAAAAGg/T06AP6ocZPc/s1600-h/queen+mary+2.jpg\"></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\"><a href=\"http://www.jetlinecruise.com/cruisev2_linedetails.phtml?lineid=5&amp;session=266237BC_DB1D-4C0A-9060-878B50C28C85\">Cunard’s</a> flagship Queen Mary 2 is currently the largest, longest, widest, tallest and most expansive ocean liner every built.<span> </span>She will be making a historic call at Greenock on Monday 19 October 2009 as part of a special <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 /><st1:place st=\"on\">British Isles</st1:place> voyage.</span></p><p><br /><span lang=\"EN-GB\">The <st1:place st=\"on\">British Isles</st1:place> voyage will mark the fifth anniversary of the introduction of Queen Mary 2 in January 2004.<span> </span>Queen Mary 2 will berth alongside the Ocean Terminal at 0800 hours and will depart at 1800 hours.<span> </span>It is expected that thousands of people will visit <st1:place st=\"on\">Greenock</st1:place> to see the largest ever vessel to dock there.</span></p><div><br />Greenock Ocean Terminal has established a growing international reputation as a cruise destination.<br /></div><div><br />At the head of the sheltered and scenic Clyde estuary on Scotland\'s Atlantic coast, the deep water quay combines modern quayside facilities with convenient rail, air and motorway networks for any onward journey to Scotland\'s top tourist attractions.<br /><br /></div><div>Carol Marlow, Cunard’s President and Managing Director, says:<br /><br /></div><div>“We are delighted to be announcing this historic call at <st1:place st=\"on\">Greenock</st1:place>. Since it’s founding in May 1839 – the 170th anniversary of which we celebrate in 2009 – Cunard has owned over 220 ships. Of those 125 were built in <st1:country-region st=\"on\">Scotland</st1:country-region>, with the vast majority of those being built on the <st1:place st=\"on\">Clyde</st1:place>. They range from the tiny Unicorn, to the first superliner <st1:state st=\"on\">Lusitania</st1:state>, the palatial <st1:place st=\"on\">Aquitania</st1:place> and the famous Queens Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth and QE2. We felt a visit by our flagship Queen Mary 2 to acknowledge our deep ties with the Clyde, Greenock and <st1:city st=\"on\"><st1:place st=\"on\">Glasgow</st1:place></st1:city> was well overdue! If previous visits by our beloved QE2 are anything to go by then Queen Mary 2 can expect an emotional, warm and historic welcome”.</div><br /><p><br /></p><p>QE2 has called at <st1:place st=\"on\">Greenock</st1:place> seven times since she entered service in May 1969 – including a return visit on 20 September 2007 exactly 40 years after her launch. </p><div>\n<a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=p0rnotG\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=p0rnotG\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=c9AgOvg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=c9AgOvg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=lVDGofg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=lVDGofg\" border=\"0\"></img></a> <a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?a=LXnQPHg\"><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~f/JetlineCruiseNews?i=LXnQPHg\" border=\"0\"></img></a>\n</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/272426911\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" />','2008-05-02 19:41:41',1,0,-1,'queen_mary_2_coming_to','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/272426911/queen-mary-2-coming-to-greenock.html',49,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'b87234f4a3ed1a9752eaea060b2e8106','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(487,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Royal Caribbean to offer My Time Dining','diningroom_978132728.jpg','2008-05-02 21:53:00','<div align=\"justify\">My Time Dining, Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s latest flexible dining option, is to be offered on selected ships and sailings in the main dining room.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />This option has become popular as it allows the guests more flexibility when planning their daily activities. If you want to linger awhile around the pool and catch the sun&rsquo;s last rays then take a later dinner or maybe you have arrived back from a shore excursion with an appetite and would prefer to dine early, no problem. </div><div align=\"justify\"><br />The idea behind My Time Dining is convenience and flexibility. You can decide to dine anytime between 6pm and 9.30pm each evening. Royal Caribbean will also be accepting reservations once onboard.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />For those who have opted for My Time Dining they will be required to pre pay their gratuities. Other than this there is no difference in the menu or service from those that have opted for set dining.</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/282695087\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2011-01-03 16:51:04',140,1,-1,'royal_caribbean_to_offer_my','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/282695087/royal-caribbean-to-offer-my-time-dining.html',183,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,'6f23700cbc4d0b6243ecf957923967f7','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(725,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Crystal Cruises','Crystal’s Ultimate Wine Experience for $1,300 per Person','aa_439434777.jpg','2008-07-26 15:22:00','<p>LOS ANGELES, July 23 &mdash; A $5,000-per-bottle 1989 Petrus and an increasingly rare 2000 Chateau Hosanna top the list of nearly-impossible-to-get wines procured for Crystal Cruises&rsquo; ultimate wine experience on Crystal Serenity&rsquo;s August 24 Mediterranean cruise. Decanter magazine&rsquo;s 2008 &ldquo;Man of the Year&rdquo; Christian Moueix is bringing these and other impressive vintages from his private collection for the $1,300 per person event, available for just 14 discriminating guests. Throughout the evening, Moueix, who oversees his family&rsquo;s French estates in Saint Emilion and Pomerol and owns the Dominus Estate in Napa Valley, will guide connoisseurs on the fine nuances of each selection.</p><p>&ldquo;To enjoy these extremely rare wines and to have the personal guidance of an expert such as Mr. Moueix is an amazing treat for one&rsquo;s senses,&rdquo; says Toni Neumeister, vice president, food &amp; beverage. &ldquo;For even the most discerning palates, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.&rdquo;</p><p>Three- Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck of Rome&rsquo;s acclaimed La Pergola is collaborating to prepare a menu that perfectly pairs food with the wine. Among the multiple courses are Beck&rsquo;s signature Fagottelli &ldquo;La Pergola,&rdquo; Carpaccio of Scallops on Amaranth Grain and Black Corn with Ginger Oil and Crepinette of Lamb.</p><p>Superstar wines featured include:</p><p>Chateau Petrus, Pomerol, France, 1989 &mdash; from Mr. Moueix&rsquo;s private collection. <br />Chateau Hosanna, Pomerol, France, 2000 &mdash; from Mr. Moueix&rsquo;s private collection. <br />Dominus, Napa Valley, California, 1991 &mdash; from Mr. Moueix&rsquo;s private collection. <br />Chateau Trotanoy, Pomerol, France, 1995 &mdash; from Mr. Moueix&rsquo;s private collection. <br />Chateau D&rsquo;Yquem, Sauternes, France, 1983 <br />Salon Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne Le Mesnil, France, 1997 <br />Chateau Haut-Brion Blanc, Pessac-Leognan, France, 2004 <br />Abtsberg Riesling Auslese 101 Maximin Grunhauser, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany, 1990 <br />The dinner can only be purchased on board and will be served in Crystal Serenity&rsquo;s intimate Vintage Room. Introduced in mid-2007, the first three Ultimate Vintage Room Dinners sold out in a matter of hours. Besides these experiences, on every cruise Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony offer Vintage Rooms dinners, typically priced at $210-$250 per person, depending on wines selected.</p><p>The 12-day August 24 itinerary will also host the President&rsquo;s cruise, calling in Turkey&rsquo;s Kusadasi; Santorini, Rhodes, Crete and Corfu, Greece; and Taormina and Sorrento, Italy. Cruise fares start at $4,995 per person, double occupancy. For more information or Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line&rsquo;s website at www.crystalcruises.com.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-14 22:20:51',210,1,1,NULL,NULL,415,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(486,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','NCL&#039;s F3 ships Keel Laying Ceremony','ncl_939445231.jpg','2008-05-02 13:10:00','<div align=\"justify\">At a ceremony at Akers Yard in St. Nazair, France, the keel for the first of Norwegian Cruise Line&rsquo;s F3 ships with laid. </div><div align=\"justify\"><br />F3 is the cruise lines third generation and the next evolution of the company&rsquo;s innovative Freestyle Cruising ships. The first block of the keel with a double bottom block, number 5006, weighing in at 322 tons and was put in place marking the start of the overall construction of the ship.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />Executives from Star Cruises, Apollo Management, NCL and Aker Yards attended the landmark ceremony. In a maritime tradition each attendee was invited to place a specially designed coin in a tube which was then welded shut and positioned in the keel for good luck.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />The two F3 ships will weigh 150,000 tonnes and will each have a total of 4,200 passenger berths, consequently being the largest ships in NCL&rsquo;s fleet.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />&quot;The F3 ships are our most innovative project in the company\'s 41-year history and will provide a totally unique vacation experience,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;Today as we lay the keel for this groundbreaking new ship, we are one step closer to revolutionizing cruising as we know it.&quot;</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />Chairman of Star Cruises Tan Sri KT Lim added, &quot;History is in the making today as NCL\'s first F3 ship begins to take shape. We are proud to be a part of bringing this new innovative ship to fruition, one unlike any the world has seen before.&quot; Steve Martinez, partner at Apollo Management, noted, &quot;NCL already has the youngest fleet in the industry. We are excited to launch the construction of this next generation of Freestyle Cruising ship.&quot;</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />The new F3 ships will have the highest proportion of cabin mix, with 100 per cent of outside staterooms featuring private balconies and in total each ship will have 1,415 balcony staterooms. The new ship design will offer 60 per cent more guest space than any other NCL ship and will provide guests with an even wider range of onboard activities, amenities and stateroom options.</div><div align=\"justify\"><br />&nbsp;</div><div align=\"justify\">There will be more details of the F3 ships innovative accommodations, public spaces, dining, entertainment, cutting edge technology and casino released on the lead up to the launch of the first F3 ship in 2010.</div><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/282699702\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2012-12-20 07:47:44',356,1,-1,'ncl_s_f3_ships_keel','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/282699702/ncls-f3-ships-keel-laying-ceremony.html',182,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,'c91b3dd70661bfde7f9fbee81724c2db','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(752,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Costa Cruises','Allegra Opens Shanghai&#039;s New Cruise Terminal &amp; Costa&#039;s 100th Cruise in China','pudong2_753381690.jpg','2008-08-05 23:03:00','<p>Great festivities have been planned in Shanghai to celebrate the arrival of the Costa Allegra (28,500 dwt and a capacity of 1,000 guests). The first call of the 2008 summer season for this ship operated by Costa Cruises was an occasion to celebrate two events: the opening of the new &ldquo;Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal&rdquo; and Costa&rsquo;s 100th cruise in China. </p><p>Costa Cruises, the Italian company that&rsquo;s number one in Europe, was the first international cruise company to operate regular cruises in China and in Asia, selling its &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo; product to the Chinese. Operations began on 3 July 2006 from Shanghai with the Costa Allegra. Since then Costa has completed a total of 121 cruises in Asia, 100 of which in China and about 40% of these from the port of Shanghai, where the Costa Allegra has brought more than 60,000 cruise vacationers traffic. </p><p>Thanks to its excellent &quot;Made in Italy&rdquo; product Costa Cruises has introduced its brand supported with large marketing investments, and although the market is still under development, Costa has accepted the challenge to position a second ship in Asia and China. Based on the success with the Chinese and international clientele, as of March 2009 Costa Cruises will bolster its operations in Asia, positioning a second ship, the Costa Classica (53,000 dwt, 1,680 passengers and 590 crew members), in addition to the Costa Allegra.</p><p>In 2008, the Costa Allegra will operate 19 cruises, 14 of these from Shanghai port&nbsp; and 4 during the Beijing Olympic Games, that will be broadcast on board the ship on giant screens in the public areas and on cabin TV sets.&nbsp; For 2009, 34 cruises (+80%) are planned with Costa Allegra and 31 with Costa Classica.</p><p>&ldquo;China&rsquo;s cruise market has a good growth potential &ndash; declared Gianni Onorato, President of Costa Cruises. Shanghai together with Tianjin (the port of Beijing) will play an important role in this sector due to their role of main ports and economic centres for China. Costa Cruises was the first to believe in offering cruises in China and to choose Shanghai as its home port. This is the city where we began to develop our activities in China. And the results of those decisions have gone beyond our greatest expectations. Since 2006, the Costa Allegra has completed 121 cruises in China and Far East. Overall, about 75,000 Guests have taken a vacation on board the Costa Allegra, including nearly 50,000 Chinese Guests. These figures are real proof of just how much China and Asia appreciate the quality of the service and the style of our cruises. It is also a concrete example of the worldwide success of the real &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo;: 98.28% of our Chinese Guests are satisfied or very satisfied with their Costa cruise vacation&rdquo;.</p><p>Costa Cruises&rsquo; General Manager for China, Leo Liu, added: &ldquo;We are very grateful to Shanghai&rsquo;s authorities and local government for the major investments they are making to improve port and cruise infrastructures. The opening of the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal will contribute significantly to the cruise industry&rsquo;s development throughout eastern China&rdquo;.</p><p>The tourism and cruise market in China</p><p>Tourism is one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the Chinese economy. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, in 2007 the economic impact of tourism in China amounted to USD 440 billion, i.e. about 6% of the world total generated by tourism. Between 2008 and 2018 this figure should increase, in real terms, at an annual rate of 9.6%. More than 35 million Chinese tourists travelled abroad in 2007. These Chinese tourists represented about 6.2% of the world&rsquo;s tourism demand. Forecasts indicate that by 2010 there will be more than 50 million Chinese tourists abroad and 100 million by 2020. <br />According to data from the Ocean Shipping Consultants, an independent research company based in Great Britain, the Northeast Asia cruise market (China, South Korea and Taiwan) will continue to grow at a constant rate: from an estimated 440 thousand cruise passengers in 2005, that figure is expected to increase to 720 thousand in 2010. </p><p>Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal</p><p>The new terminal, that will become operational with the arrival of the Costa Allegra, was specially designed to dock international cruise ships. Located along the Huangpu River, it covers a total area of 350,000 m&sup2;, extends over 4 floors and can dock up to 4 cruise vessels at the same time. An ultramodern terminal in terms of efficiency and safety, it will be able to complete immigration procedures at the rate of just 48 seconds per person. The area will also include business centres, hotels, offices and art galleries.&nbsp; </p><p>Costa cruises in Asia</p><p>In the summer of 2008 the Costa Allegra will also offer short 4 to 6-day cruises with departures not only from Shanghai but also from Hong Kong and Tianjin. The itineraries include the new destination of Fukuoka (Japan), in addition to Cheju (South Korea), Sanya (China), Da Nang and Cai Lan (Vietnam), Nagasaki and Kagoshima (Japan). These short voyages will be supported by the longer 14 and 15-day cruises to the Far East, with calls to ports in Japan, South Korea, China, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Vietnam.</p><p>This type of cruise is designed for Chinese Guests, whose appreciation for the Costa product continues to grow. The same can be said for international Guests, including Asian and Australasia countries, for whom itineraries in the Orient are both fascinating and attractive.</p><p>As of 27 March 2009 the Costa Classica will offer 33, 4 to 14-day cruises, with departures from Singapore, Shanghai, Tianjin, Hong Kong and the various itineraries will include visits to the best destinations and Asian countries.</p><p>Costa &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo; in Asia</p><p>The Costa Allegra offers its Chinese guests the best of &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo;. Starting, obviously, from the cuisine. In fact, the Costa Allegra&rsquo;s guests can dine in an Italian &ldquo;&agrave; la carte&rdquo; restaurant, the Amalfi Restaurant, located in one of the ship&rsquo;s most panoramic vantage points, in 2 other restaurants and buffer that offer traditional Italian dishes (starting from pasta ), and in a &ldquo;pizzeria&rdquo;. These dining experiences are so popular that even Italian cooking lessons, taught by the onboard chefs, have been organised and include how to prepare the perfect &ldquo;pasta al pesto&rdquo;. Even the entertainment has acquired that typical Italian touch: in the saloons and next to the swimming pool theme evenings are organised, including an &ldquo;Italian night&rdquo; with the election of &ldquo;Mr. Spaghetto&rdquo; and a song contest called the &ldquo;Italian Festival&rdquo;. One of the numerous theatre shows, real musicals created &ldquo;in-house&rdquo; by Costa Crociere, includes a special show called &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo; inspired by Italian history and traditions. The Costa Allegra shopping area provides guests with the opportunity to purchase major Italian name brands, including&nbsp; Armani, Bulgari, D&amp;G, Gucci, Antica Murrina.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>Awards received by Costa Crociere in China</p><p>Last March Costa Crociere received 2 important awards in China: &ldquo;The Most Popular Cruise Line&quot; award presented during the World Travel Fair, Eastern China&rsquo;s most important tradeshow, and the &quot;Award for Customer Management 2007&quot; that was presented to Costa Crociere&rsquo;s Call Centre in China by the China Customer Management Forum. <br />Costa Crociere has already received &ldquo;The Best Marketing Promotion Award&rdquo;, dedicated to the best marketing campaign in China, awarded by the Traveler magazine during the &ldquo;Gold List Travel Award 2007&rdquo;, and the &ldquo;Top International Cruise Line Award 2007&rdquo;, organised by World Traveller to pay tribute to the best international cruise company.</p><p>The ships</p><p>The Costa Classica, which entered service in 1991 and was restyled in 2001, was built at the Fincantieri shipyards in Marghera. One of Costa&rsquo;s most popular cruisers, with a displacement of 53,000 dwt and an overall length of 220 metres, she can accommodate a total of 1,680 passengers in 1,304 lower berths. </p><p>The Costa Allegra, weighing in at 28,500 dwt with a capacity of 1,000 guests, was completely restyled in March 2006 for a total investment of Euro 12 million. The design of the public areas was inspired by the Neoclassic style with a strong Italian flair. She is nicknamed the &ldquo;crystal ship&rdquo; because of her bright and modern architecture and large stern glass wall. The ship is equipped with 386 cabins, 13 suites including 10 with a private balcony, 3 restaurants offering Italian, international and Asian specialities, 5 bars, 2 swimming pools, a wellness centre, a theatre, a shopping centre with the most famous &ldquo;made in Italy&rdquo; brands, a casino and a discotheque.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p>','2013-01-19 23:57:58',395,1,1,NULL,NULL,437,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(750,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','SILVERSEA ANNOUNCES RECORD GROWTH OF NEW CUSTOMERS','seadreamyachts_699596880.jpg','2008-08-05 22:56:00','<p align=\"left\">(Ft. Lauderdale, FL -- July 31, 2008)&nbsp;&nbsp; Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is seeing record growth in the percentage of its guests who have never previously sailed with the line.&nbsp; For the third consecutive year, the award-winning company has enjoyed a year-over-year increase in new guests of about ten percent.&nbsp; Currently, fifty-four percent of all guests are new to Silversea, the largest percentage it has ever achieved.</p><p align=\"left\">&quot;We are aggressively targeting new-to-Silversea and first-time cruisers by going after a larger share of the lucrative baby boomer market,&quot; said David Morris, Silversea\'s executive vice president of worldwide sales and marketing.&nbsp; &quot;We\'re encouraging our travel agency partners to check their preconceptions at the door.&nbsp; Younger people have the money and time to travel, and can appreciate the exceptional value a luxury cruise offers when compared to land-based vacations.&nbsp; Our sales force has made great strides in showing our retail travel partners how to tap the client base of upscale hotels like Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons, and the hard work has paid off.&quot;</p><p align=\"left\">Added Morris, &quot;We\'ve also been successful in attracting guests who are new to cruising by encouraging agents to scour their communities and social networks for luxury travel prospects.&nbsp; Our agency partners are working closely with businesses in their communities that cater to an upscale clientele and launching joint promotions and sales campaigns that benefit both parties.&nbsp; And of course we\'re dedicating the necessary financial resources, with about twenty percent of our sales budget going to cooperative marketing initiatives that support our agents in their efforts to target this new business.&quot;</p><p align=\"left\">Marilyn Conroy, Silversea\'s senior vice president of sales and marketing for the Americas, noted, &quot;A lot of our sales efforts have been directed toward Canada and emerging luxury markets like Mexico and Brazil.&nbsp; Though we do have concerns about the weak stock market and the downturn in the U.S. economy, we are far ahead of where we were in 2007 both in terms of sales and yields.&nbsp; Since our customer base is quite diverse internationally, we\'re less affected by any single country\'s soft economy.&quot;</p><p align=\"left\">Due to strong business from new customers and sales increases in emerging markets, Silversea is fully committed and investing aggressively in its future.&nbsp; In June, the company launched its first expedition ship, the <em>Prince Albert II</em>.&nbsp; Extensive multimillion dollar refurbishments are planned for <em>Silver Wind</em> and <em>Silver Cloud</em> in November 2008 and May 2009, respectively.&nbsp; And Silversea\'s newest all-suite ship, <em>Silver Spirit</em>, is currently under construction at Fincantieri\'s Ancona shipyard and scheduled to join the fleet in late 2009.&nbsp;</p><p align=\"left\">Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, <em>Silver Cloud</em>, <em>Silver Wind</em>, <em>Silver Shadow</em>, and <em>Silver Whisper</em>, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.&nbsp; With the addition of the regal expedition ship <em>Prince Albert II</em>, the company\'s itineraries encompass all seven continents.&nbsp;</p><p align=\"left\">In the U.S., Silversea has been voted &quot;World\'s Best&quot; by the readers of <em>Cond&eacute; Nast</em> <em>Traveler</em> (nine times) and <em>Travel + Leisure</em> (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI).&nbsp; International awards include &quot;World\'s Leading Luxury Cruise Line&quot; from World Travel Awards (2007); &quot;Five Star Diamond Award&quot; from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2007); &quot;Number One&quot; small-ship line in the Readers\' Choice&quot; survey conducted by Britain\'s <em>Cond&eacute; Nast Traveller</em> magazine (2007); &quot;Best Luxury Cruise Line&quot; by Spain\'s <em>Cruceros &amp; Destinos</em> magazine (2008); &quot;Best Small Cruise Line&quot; by Australia\'s <em>Luxury Travel Magazine</em> (2007); and &quot;Best Luxury Cruise Operator&quot; according to Asia\'s <em>Travel Weekly</em> (2007).</p>','2013-01-24 16:16:07',289,1,1,NULL,NULL,442,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Aggressive Sales and Cooperative Marketing Efforts Driving New-to-Silversea Business',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(749,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Holland America Line&#039;s 2009 Mexico Cruises Feature Bahia Magdalena and Santa Cruz Huatulco','124205488_4e49dd45f0_721107404.jpg','2008-08-05 22:53:00','<p>SEATTLE, Aug. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line is introducing the new port of Santa Cruz Huatulco, Oaxaca, and scenic cruising through wildlife- abundant Bahia Magdalena on selected 2009 Mexico cruises. A breeding ground for migrating gray whales, Bahia Magdalena highlights the seven-day Mexican Riviera itineraries, while Santa Cruz Huatulco is featured on the new 12-day Pacific Mexico cruises sailing roundtrip San Diego. These -- and Holland America\'s 9- and 10-day Sea of Cortez cruises -- feature the adventurous shore excursion to Mexico\'s famed Copper Canyon.<br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br />In 2009 the premium cruise line features sun-splashed itineraries ranging from seven to 15 days on the ms Ryndam and ms Oosterdam, most sailing roundtrip from the convenient homeport of San Diego.</p><p>&quot;From colorful Mexican Riviera ports to astounding wildlife in the Sea of Cortez and Bahia Magdalena, Holland America Line offers more diverse cruise choices, especially for those who seek an enriching vacation,&quot; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &quot;We provide our guests with new experiences and discoveries through shore excursions, sporting adventures and eco-tours. Between such explorations ashore and all the activities our ships offer onboard, our Mexico cruises attract guests ranging from wildlife-watchers to multi-generational families.&quot;</p><p>Seven-day Mexican Riviera Sailings with Bahia Magdalena</p><p>In 2009 the Vista-class, 1,848-guest Oosterdam begins with seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises departing Saturdays January 3 through February 21, roundtrip from San Diego. Guests visit the popular ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, plus enjoy scenic cruising through Bahia Magdalena. Renowned for its gray whale watching, Bahia Magdalena is also home to dolphins, sea lions and an amazing array of birds including eagles, pelicans, herons and ibis.</p><p>Guests enjoy a full day in each port for exploration. Cabo San Lucas offers sport-fishing, sea kayaking, whale-watching and snorkeling/diving opportunities; Mazatlan is renowned for its golden beaches and cosmopolitan resort flavor; and Puerto Vallarta provides a mix of colonial charm, bustling markets and superb shopping. Guests also have two relaxing days at sea when they can pamper themselves at the Greenhouse Spa and Salon and enjoy many other shipboard amenities and activities.</p><p>In the fall, the 1,258-guest ms Ryndam sails the same itinerary departing Oct. 10 through Nov. 21. Cruise fares start at $599 per person, double occupancy; taxes and fuel supplement are additional.</p><p>Sea of Cortez Cruises, plus Copper Canyon</p><p>The Ryndam showcases the Sea of Cortez with 10-day winter/spring cruises departing Feb. 3 to Apr. 24 roundtrip from San Diego. The itineraries feature Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Topolobampo, Loreto, scenic cruising past the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, La Paz and Cabo San Lucas.</p><p>From Topolobampo, guests can opt for the full-day excursion to Mexico\'s spectacular Copper Canyon, accessible only via the Chihuahua Pacifico railway which travels from sea level to 7,200 feet. In Loreto they can visit the Bahia de Loreto Marine Park for scuba diving, fishing and wildlife watching, go climbing and biking in the mountainous terrain of the Sierra la Giganta or absorb history at the two oldest Jesuit posts in the region: 1697 Nuestra Senora de Loreto Mission and 1699 San Javier Mission. Shore excursions from La Paz include snorkeling at Los Islotes, home to a sea lion colony. Cruise fares start at $999 per person, double occupancy.</p><p>The Ryndam also sails a nine-day Sea of Cortez itinerary in the fall with departures Oct. 24 and Nov. 28 roundtrip from San Diego. It offers all the above ports except La Paz.</p><p>In addition the Ryndam offers two Sea of Cortez cruises between San Diego and Vancouver, both of which call at the new port of Guaymas on the Sonoran coast. A 14-day cruise departs San Diego on Apr. 24, and a 15-day cruise departs Vancouver on Sept. 25. Both include variations of the 10-day itinerary ports of call plus Guaymas, known for its intriguing mix of golden beaches, fishing, scuba diving, golf, colonial buildings, the San Jose de Guaymas Mission and &quot;El Sahuaral,&quot; a giant cactus area.</p><p>In the fall, the Ryndam also sails a 12-day Pacific Mexico itinerary departing Nov. 2 and Dec. 7 roundtrip from San Diego. It visits Manzanillo, Acapulco, Santa Cruz Huatulco -- a warm seaside resort also know for its bird-watching opportunities -- Zihuatanejo, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.</p>','2013-01-18 04:32:46',316,1,1,NULL,NULL,440,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(748,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Cruise Ship Condominiums in Vancouver','2265047587_34cd43e31b_789958567.jpg','2008-08-05 22:51:00','<p>VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Waterfront Lifestyles of Vancouver, a boutique maritime lodging company, is selling condos on a small cruise ship that will take weekly tours of the surrounding Pacific coastline. Purchasers may live aboard full-time, cruise only on weekends, rent out their condos as investment income, or any combination which suits their individual purposes. They are free to cultivate whichever lifestyle they choose. The vessel, Pacific Aurora, was a retired coastal cruise ship that was completely renovated and brought up to modern design and safety standards and can accommodate approximately 65 residents in 29 cabins.<br />&nbsp;<br />For less than many country-club memberships, purchasers may now own a share in a cruise ship. Prices for individual condo cabins on Aurora range from $189,000 for a single room to a larger suite for $399,000 plus a nominal homeowners association maintenance fee.</p><p>The ship will cruise each weekend to area attractions which include whale-watching, cruising the incredibly beautiful British Columbia mountainous coastline, shopping junkets to Victoria and other port cities, and summertime fishing and scuba excursions. And, with the winter Olympic Games scheduled for Vancouver in 2010, Pacific Aurora will provide its residents unparalleled lodging and access to the events.</p><p>The ship will be operated, managed, and maintained by a highly qualified local crew.</p><p>During the week the ship will be docked in Vancouver within easy reach of some of the most vibrant entertainment and shopping areas on the Pacific coast. Two or three weekends each month it will take its owners to major events and sightseeing trips locally, then, each year it will take a two-week cruise to more distant destinations such as San Francisco and Alaska.</p><p>The concept of cruise ship condominium ownership is not new; however, in most cases the existing condo ships offered units for well over a million dollars and remained unaffordable for most people. Pacific Aurora will be the first ship to actually allow purchasers to own a cabin on a smaller ship for under a half-million dollars.</p><p>The developers see mass appeal for the idea among a wide variety of cruisers including: retirees looking for a viable retirement residence; young urban professionals who want to be near the hustle and bustle of Vancouver\'s night life and bohemian lifestyle; businessmen who need to entertain clients and prospects frequently; real estate investors looking for the latest trendy sales item; even the couple looking for an extra bedroom for out-of-town guests and visitors. Interest is even anticipated from international corporations looking for lodging for the winter Olympics.</p><p>Waterfront Lifestyles of Vancouver is a limited liability company formed specifically for the ownership of Pacific Aurora. Each condo owner has an equity share in the company and has a voice in the day-to-day operation and management of the ship.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:58:51',294,1,1,NULL,NULL,439,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'New concept creates boutique housing idea for winter Olympics',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(746,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','P&amp;O Cruises introduce &#039;once in a lifetime&#039; shore excursions','ferrari_984713367.jpg','2008-08-03 21:19:00','<p>P&amp;O Cruises are aiming to attract guests looking for adventurous holiday experiences with the introduction of their new shore excursions for 2008/9. The new excursions will offer the opportunity to take part in &lsquo;once in a lifetime&rsquo; activities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are exciting P&amp;O Cruises excursions in the Mediterranean where you can drive through the streets of Italy in a red Ferrari F430, visit the Galimand Studio is Grasse to create your own personal fragrance or learn how to make Tuscan specialities in a farmhouse overlooking the Alps.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are further delights on offer from P&amp;O Cruises in the Baltic and Northern Europe, chances to explore glaciers and ice-fields on a snow-truck or maybe float downstream on the River Suldalslagen for a &lsquo;salmon safari&rsquo;. In the Caribbean there are amazing excursions where you can zip-wire through a rainforest in Jamaica or race a Beneteau 40 yacht in Antigua.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises managing director, Nigel Esdale, said: &ldquo;We are now attracting more new to cruise passengers than ever before and these holidaymakers are looking for something a little different to do on shore than a guided coach tour.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&ldquo;We can now offer them experiences that simply would not be possible on any other type of holiday. It is this breadth of choice that sets our holidays apart from any other.&rdquo;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For all your P&amp;O Cruises holiday requirements visit the Jetline Cruise website. Cruises on the brand new P&amp;O Ventura are on sale now.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:00',223,1,1,NULL,NULL,432,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(747,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Oceania Cruises','Oceania names first newbuilding Marina as construction starts','splendor_gallery_01L_20Small_20Web_20view_940609372.jpg','2008-08-05 22:49:00','Work has started on the first of two 65,000 Oceania class gross ton newbuildings of the Florida based upper premium operator Oceania Cruises at the Fincantieri\'s Sestri Ponente Shipyard in Genoa, Italy. <br /><br />Presided over by Frank Del Rio, Chairman of Prestige Cruise Holdings, Oceania Cruises\' parent company, and attended by some of the line\'s most loyal past guests, the first piece of steel was ceremoniously cut to officially begin construction of Oceania Cruises\' first brand-new ship. During the ceremony, Del Rio also revealed the name of the first ship as Marina along with design details of the Veranda Staterooms and Penthouse Suites.<br /><br />Veranda Staterooms, at 312 square feet, will incorporate larger sitting areas, marble-clad bathrooms with separate tub and shower, copious closet space and extra-large private verandas for relaxation.The Penthouse Suites will be 429 square feet and feature a large living area, space for in-suite dining, separate sleeping area, extra-large bathrooms, walk-in closets and a host of other amenities. <br /><br />&quot;Marina will not be just a ship, she will be a place of beauty that offers our guests unparalleled comfort, amenities and a culinary experience that is beyond compare. Marina, along with her sister-ship, will bethe most beautiful ships to sail the seven seas,&quot; added Del Rio.','2013-01-19 23:52:37',223,2,1,NULL,NULL,438,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(745,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Building a Dream','dsc_2989_933297307.jpg','2008-08-02 12:56:00','<p><font size=\"2\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\">Set to debut in Europe September 21, 2009, the new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream is beginning to take shape at Fincantieri&rsquo;s Monfalcone shipyard. Pictured above are some of the upper decks being pieced together as construction continues on the 3,646-passenger &ldquo;Fun Ship.&rdquo;<span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></font></font><font size=\"2\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;<span></span></span></font></font></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">The largest Carnival Cruise Lines ship ever constructed, Carnival Dream will offer a variety of on board amenities and features including a huge WaterWorks aqua park, &ldquo;scenic whirlpools&rdquo; that extended over the ship&rsquo;s beam, and the line&rsquo;s first two-level miniature golf course. <span>&nbsp;</span>A number of innovative stateroom accommodations, including a two-bathroom configuration that will be ideal for families, will also be offered. </font></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"><span>Following </span>its European debut, the massive SuperLiner will offer two voyages from New York and then reposition to Port Canaveral, Fla., for year-round seven-day Caribbean cruises beginning Dec. 5, 2009. </font></span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:57:22',245,1,1,NULL,NULL,430,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(744,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','stuff.co.nz','Cruise ship cleared to leave Auckland','123_565893652.jpg','2008-08-02 12:54:00','<p>A cruise ship on which dozens of passengers were injured when it struck stormy seas off New Zealand on Wednesday has been cleared to depart Auckland after a safety check.</p><p>The Pacific Sun was on its way from the Pacific Islands to Auckland when it lurched sharply in seven metre swells several hundred kilometres north of New Zealand.</p><p>About 40 of more than 1700 passengers and 671 crew needed to be treated for injuries sustained in the incident, and many were relieved when the ship made it to port behind schedule yesterday afternoon.</p><p>Maritime NZ (MNZ) general manager of maritime operations John Mansell said a thorough safety inspection was carried out today both by an MNZ representative and surveyors representing the United Kingdom-registered vessel\'s own maritime authorities.</p><p>Mr Mansell said all were in agreement the ship was safe to depart.</p><p>He said inspections had revealed no structural damage caused by the heavy weather.</p>','2013-01-19 23:50:14',189,1,1,NULL,NULL,434,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(743,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Otago Daily Times','Cruise ship passengers offered discount','123_616021880.jpg','2008-08-02 03:48:00','<p>Passengers on a cruise ship hit by severe stormy weather are to be offered reduced tickets for a future trip in the wake of their South Pacific ordeal. </p><p>The <em>Pacific Sun</em>, which was carrying 1732 passengers and 671 crew, docked in Auckland today on its return from an eight-night cruise. </p><p>On Wednesday, as it was making its way from Vanuatu and was about 600km north of Auckland, the ship struck 50-knot winds and seven-metre swells. </p><p>It rolled sharply and items were sent flying. </p><p>P &amp; O Cruises said 42 passengers needed medical treatment, with three remaining under medical supervision for the rest of the journey. </p><p>Company spokeswoman Sandy Olsen said the ship docked in Auckland about 1pm. </p><p>She said arrangements that P &amp; O had made for the ship\'s arrival included ensuring smooth onward travel for passengers. </p><p>Counselling was also being offered for passengers and crew who were shaken by their experience. </p><p>On the issue of compensation, Ms Olsen said passengers would be offered a goodwill gesture of a 25 percent reduction in the value of a future cruise. </p><p>She said the course between Vanuatu and Auckland had been planned to avoid as much of the poor weather in the region as possible. </p><p>But conditions took a turn from the worst on Friday night. </p><p>Ms Olsen said most of the passengers injured had suffered cuts, bruises and sprains. </p><p>She did not have details of the three who were under medical supervision but doctors and nurses on board had assessed them as stable and comfortable. </p><p>On disembarking, the three were transferred to hospital for further checks. </p><p>Ms Olsen said there was understood to have been no structural damage to the <em>Pacific Sun</em>. </p><p>&quot;There was obviously some superficial damage internally from items that moved around as it took a sudden movement,&quot; she said. </p><p>&quot;But we have a team of technical people assessing the ship and public safety is our absolute priority.&quot; </p><p>She said P &amp; O would work closely with any Maritime New Zealand investigation. </p><p>The ship was to have departed last night on its next cruise. It was now expected to leave tomorrow night on an eight-night New Caledonian trip. </p>','2013-01-19 23:59:01',201,1,1,NULL,NULL,433,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(440,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Shark! Card Sharks, That Is!',NULL,'2008-03-16 17:11:00','<a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R92N09gxT-I/AAAAAAAAAFI/1TsnXuClp9M/s1600-h/poker+chips.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R92N09gxT-I/AAAAAAAAAFI/1TsnXuClp9M/s200/poker+chips.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div>Carnival is sponsoring a series of poker cruises for fans of Texas Hold \'Em. Called the Carnival PokerPro Challenge, the cruise line is holding a series of No Limit Texas Hold \'Em poker satellite tournaments on several voyages throughout 2008. Winners in the preliminary tournaments will have a chance to compete for the $45,000 cash prize in the Grand Final Playoff, scheduled for the Carnival Fantasy voyage on October 4, 2008.</div><div> </div><div>Winners in the preliminary tournaments have the chance to walk away with $750 along with a seat at the Grand Final Playoff.</div><div> </div><div>To sign up, players must ante up $150 and book passage on one of several cruises going on from now until June 30. These include all of the voyages on the Carnival Spirit, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Valor, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Victory, and Carnival Legend till June 30 along with all voyages on the Carnival Pride (except for June 15, 2008 sailing), all voyages on the Carnival Glory (except the May 10, 2008 sailing) and all voyages on the Carnival Miracle (except the April 23, 2008 sailing). </div><div> </div><div>Rake fees are $15 per entry. Poker players are asked to register for the tournaments on the first night of the cruise at the cashier cage in the casino.</div><div> </div><div><br /> </div><div></div><br /><div></div>','2008-10-13 09:26:34',3,0,-1,'shark_card_sharks_that_is','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/03/shark-card-sharks-that-is.html',136,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'54d6beb8c82cad8c58be17c260561b41','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(441,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Old World is Hot New Destination',NULL,'2008-03-08 19:12:00','The Old World of Europe is a hot new destination for a lot of cruise lines. Azamara is boasting exotic European ports that its smaller ships can access such as Zadar (Croatia), Volos (Greece), and Rouen (France).<br /><br />In case Rouen doesn\'t ring a bell, it is best known to historians as the site of Joan of Arc\'s execution. It\'s actually a charming town with a distinct Medieval flavor.<br /><br />Norwegian Cruise Lines is going to station <em>The Norwegian Jade</em> year-round in Europe starting March 30, 2008. The Jade will call Europe home till at least November 2008 with some Eastern Mediterranean sailings, all starting from Barcelona, Spain.<br /><br />Princess is announcing that it\'s never done more European cruises than the upcoming 2009 calendar. Two ships (<em>Ruby Princess</em> and <em>Tahitian Princess</em>) will call Europe home, adding nine new itineraries and 11 ports of call. Exotic is the word on some of these ports: Sochi and Murmask (Russia), Lulea (Sweden), Klaipeda (Lithuania), Seydisfjordur and Grunarfjordur (Iceland) and Ceuta (a Spanish city that\'s actually located in Morocco).',NULL,0,0,-1,'old_world_is_hot_new','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/03/old-world-is-hot-new-destination.html',137,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'e450448c8f35067ad4e7b13f33f2957f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(442,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Azamaracruises.com',NULL,'2008-02-23 20:03:00','<a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R8DCaZaNjbI/AAAAAAAAAEM/LK-2UpjKXYI/s1600-h/http+on+monitor.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R8DCaZaNjbI/AAAAAAAAAEM/LK-2UpjKXYI/s200/http+on+monitor.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a> I love cruise websites and the new cruise line Azamara Cruises has one. It\'s not so much one of those \"book it here\" kind of sites, it\'s aimed at giving you more of a feel of what the cruises will be like.<br /><br />Of course, you can price and book a cruise on the site.<br /><br />What I liked was the stateroom views (360 degrees) plus the opportunity to get deck plans of all the ships.<br /><br />Check it out: <a href=\"http://www.azamaracruises.com/\">http://www.azamaracruises.com</a>.','2008-11-03 15:08:04',4,0,-1,'azamaracruises_com','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/azamaracruisescom.html',138,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'70367bc7492bd0f334685a57451de9b7','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(443,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','QE2 and Queen Victoria Meet in Sydney',NULL,'2008-02-23 19:57:00','<a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R8DCQJaNjaI/AAAAAAAAAEE/oTPdLl7Gy8g/s1600-h/Sydney+Australia.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R8DCQJaNjaI/AAAAAAAAAEE/oTPdLl7Gy8g/s320/Sydney+Australia.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div>Cunard Cruise Lines is creating what it\'s calling a Royal Rendezvous in Sydney Australia when the QE2 and the Queen Victoria meet in Sydney.<br /><br />It\'s happening right now (February 23). Queen Victoria should be in port in Syndey with her more famous sister, the QE2 due in tomorrow (February 24).<br /><br />There\'s some history involved. The QE2 made it\'s first call on the port of Sydney way back in 1978, exactly on February 24. So it\'s a 30-year reunion for the old gal. And it\'s a bit of a sad reunion because Cunard says this is the QE2\'s farewell World Cruise.</div>',NULL,0,0,-1,'qe2_and_queen_victoria_meet','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/qe2-and-queen-victoria-meet-in-sydney.html',139,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'4285a8203d8e6bcb5385565ae01a41c5','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(444,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Celebrity Solstice Launches 10 Restaurants',NULL,'2008-02-13 11:45:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R7MhRJaNi_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/C1MgIzE-8Es/s1600-h/cheeseburger+and+fries.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R7MhRJaNi_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/C1MgIzE-8Es/s200/cheeseburger+and+fries.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div>You can really only do this in the cruise industry. Celebrity Cruise Lines just announced that it is opening 10 new restaurants. All on one ship.<br /><br />What they\'ve done is hire Adam Tihany, a restaurant and hotel designer, to work out a plan for the Celebrity Solstice, one of the line\'s largest vessels. Tihany designed Le Cirque in New York City, Seagblue in Las Vegas, and the Mandarin Bar in London, among many others. This was the first time Tihany had worked within the \"confines\" of a sea-going city. He created a two-story dining room, a two-story wine tower, and some smaller venues.<br /><br />The Grand Epernay is the main dining room which has a two-story glass wine tower as part of the decor. Think Old Hollywood glamor.<br /><br />The Tuscan Grille is a more intimate space that blends Italian countryside and Napa Valley.<br /><br />Silk Harvest would be where I would head. It\'s a contemporary Asian restuarant with Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisines, including sushi, sakes, and that super-hot Thai food some of us adore.<br /><br />Other eateries are Blu (spa food, reservations only, plus you have to book in a certain class to be eligible to get reservations), Murano (Continental), Bistro on Five (crepes), Care al Bacio and Gelateria (hey, I know that much Italian--this is ice cream!) and AquaSpa Cafe where you eat in the solarium, which, incidentally is where Colonel Mustard killed his victim with a candlestick.<br /><br />Eating by the pool is still allowed at the Mast Grill &amp; Bar (chicken wings) and the Oceanview Cafe is sort of the chameleon restaurant in that it was designed to reflect the destinations to which the ship is traveling. It\'s got long hours and outdoor seating.<br /><br />And, yes, burgers are still served!</div>','2008-09-08 10:57:36',2,0,-1,'celebrity_solstice_launches_10_restaurants','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/celebrity-solstice-launches-10.html',140,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'3ca3dd0c80fbb9ad745b5331d5d45ece','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(445,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Blogging Cruise, part deux',NULL,'2008-02-13 11:38:00','If you don\'t know who John Heald is, this may not seem that big of a deal to you.<br /><br />If you do know John Heald, hang on.<br /><br />John Heald is the senior cruise director for Carnival who last year started a blog. Starting in May 2007, Heald started writing about his experiences as cruise director, his behind-the-scenes perspectives on the industry, and sometimes hilarious commentaries about life on the high seas and particularly, um, memorable passengers.<br /><br />What is amazing is that people flocked to his blog. In droves! He has had over 1.4 million hits in his less-than-one-year-old blog. That\'s amazing. Most people in blogging know how hard it is to get even a thousand hits. Nobody (least of all Heald) expected the phenomenal success.<br /><br />You can catch his blog at <a href=\"http://www.carnival.com/\">http://www.carnival.com</a>. There\'s a direct link, but I think it\'s easier to just go to the main cruise line page and click. You\'ll see the icon for his blog off to the right.<br /><br />Anyway, Heald\'s blog was so much fun that Carnival ran its first-ever bloggers\' cruise. That was so successful they have just announced the next one. It\'s going to be on the Carnival Fantasy with dates of February 7-12, 2009.<br /><br />The big appeal of this is to blog lovers. Heald will be there in person and there will be a reception where passengers can meet him and have a photo taken with him. Carnival promises some unspecified blog-related \"give-aways.\" Avid readers may be able to walk away with prizes since they\'re doing blog trivia games.<br /><br />Now even if you\'re not a blog reader (yet), you might still want to sign on for this cruise. First of all, it\'s on Carnival Fantasy. This ship is just getting a massive renovation in the line\'s Evolution of Fun program. It\'s expected to unveil with a water park, a redone pool, and completely refurbished staterooms and common rooms. Oh, and a rock wall. But beyond that, Carnival is sketchy with all of the details other than to say that we can expect \"innovations.\"<br /><br />The cruise is going out of the Big Easy, New Orleans, and what better place to launch a renovated ship than in the renovated city? It\'s a five-day Gulf of Mexico cruise taking passengers to Progreso and Cozumel.<br /><br />According to Carnival, they\'re offering fares on this cruise at $359 a person (you can generally go cheap if you book early) But if you want to sign on to the bloggers cruise (and participate in the Heald-related festivities) book with this fare code: CPBL/FPBL or talk to a Carnival rep in person. Tell them Cruise Line NEWS sent you.',NULL,0,0,-1,'blogging_cruise_part_deux','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/blogging-cruise-part-deux.html',141,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'17e0fff5f75968013562f2474d37987d','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(446,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Easy Disembarkation?',NULL,'2008-02-13 11:34:00','This should be filed in the \"somebody should do something about this\" file because maybe somebody has. I have not experienced this myself, so I cannot vouch that this works. But Princess Cruise Lines has decided it\'s unhappy with the old-fashioned bump-and-grind-your-teeth method of disembarkation on cruise ships.<br /><br />This is the worst part of any cruise, and it makes for an abrupt ending to what is usually otherwise a quite lovely week on the seas.<br /><br />Instead of straining to hear loudspeaker announcements, slapping on luggage tags and hoping for the best, and then tearing off with no clear plan only to get stalled in stairway gridlock ... here\'s a new idea.<br /><br />On the last night of the cruise, Princess sends you a letter with specific instructions on how to disembark. You get a time and place. Show up at that time and you\'ll be met by a Princess crew member whose job it is to escort you off the ship in a timely way.<br /><br />No more rushing around and no more garbled loudspeaker announcements.<br /><br />If you don\'t mind lugging your own luggage, Princess says you can participate in \"Express Disembarkation,\" which just means these resourceful and hardy souls get to go first.',NULL,0,0,-1,'easy_disembarkation','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/easy-disembarkation.html',142,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'cb1933b5c94c7f428ea34c4b04a2f543','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(447,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Fred Astaire Lives!',NULL,'2008-02-13 11:29:00','This may be an acquired taste but if you love ballroom dancing and those TV shows where celebrities dust off their dancing shoes to compete, Royal Caribbean is bringing \"Invitation to Dance\" on its Explorer of the Seas ship. It\'s one of their production shows but instead of letting the cast and crew do all the work, passengers are invited to step up, step out, and even compete.<br /><br />This is ballroom dancing: think rumba, cha-cha, samba, the waltz, and swing.<br /><br />At the start of each cruise on Explorer of the Seas, there is an evening of ballroom dancing at which four couples are selected to participate in the \"Invitation to Dance\" show later that week. The lucky couples who get the nod will work with choreographers, costume designers, and the technical behind-the-scenes people to be part of a world-class show. Cheryl Burke, a two-timer winner of the TV show \"Dancing with the Stars,\" is the hostess.<br /><br />On show night, the four couples (who probably up to now have been having a great time getting to know each other) become competitors as the audience picks the winning couple.<br /><br />Explorer of the Seas sails out of Cape Liberty Cruise Port (Bayonne, New Jersey) and offers a five-night Bermuda sailing or a nine-night tour of the Caribbean.','2008-05-02 19:36:45',1,0,-1,'fred_astaire_lives','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/fred-astaire-lives.html',143,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'2ea719c79e713e7cb991ecb39bcac87f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(448,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','What\'s the Best Cruise? The One You Win!',NULL,'2008-02-13 11:23:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R7Mh8JaNjAI/AAAAAAAAAA8/GQecWlajwtU/s1600-h/Ship+in+Water.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/R7Mh8JaNjAI/AAAAAAAAAA8/GQecWlajwtU/s200/Ship+in+Water.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div>Right now, cruise lovers can compete for not one but two free cruises in specialty contests. You can get more details at <a href=\"http://www.thecruise-shopper.com/News_Mainpage.html\">http://www.thecruise-shopper.com/News_Mainpage.html</a>.<br /><br />Princess Cruises is playing off its Love Boat image by offering a contest for the most romantic person. If you think you\'re the most romantic person (or you want to nominate someone who is), you can send in a video entry of three minutes or less making your case. Princess explains how (visit its website) at <a href=\"http://www.greatestromantic.princess.com/\">http://www.greatestromantic.princess.com/</a> for specifics. The winner walks away with a free cruise. But you have to hurry. Deadline is March 20, 2008. The best five entries will be determined by April 1 and for two weeks, the general public can pick the best entry.<br /><br />Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean is busy building what it\'s calling the two largest cruise ships in the world. Code-named Genesis I and Genesis II, RC is holding a contest to invite members of the public to name those ships. This is a bit of a break with tradition in the cruise world (and tradition is a big thing in the maritime industry). Typically, heads of state or cruise lines or captains of industry are asked to name ships. Letting everyday people have the honor is a new thing, but one RC intends to pay off handsomely. If your entry wins, you\'ll get a seven-day first-class cruise on the ship you named, plus you\'ll be invited to the naming ceremony.<br /><br />Details on that are at <a href=\"http://www.namethatship.com/\">http://www.namethatship.com/</a>. Contest deadline is February 29, so the pressure is on.</div>',NULL,0,0,-1,'what_s_the_best_cruise','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/02/whats-best-cruise-one-you-win.html',144,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'679b949d732e213ddbf869c250ecb232','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(449,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','New Cruise Line Just Sets Sail: Azamara',NULL,'2007-05-28 12:40:00','There\'s a new cruise line in the business and its first ship just set sail on May 4. The line is Azamara and it\'s owned by Celebrity Cruises.<br /><br />The Azarma Line is what might be considered a niche line. First of all, the ships are smaller. The Azarmar Journey accommodates just 710 guests. Its sister ship, the Azarma Quest, will enter service in October 2007.<br /><br />Second, the line is going to be \"deluxe,\" which a Celebrity spokesperson said is \"between premium and luxury.\" In other words, upscale, but not the super-posh.<br /><br />But the real reason Azamara is going to stand out is the destinations. The line plans to visit some very unusual destinations for cruise lines. While the line\'s official itinerary has not been published to date, Celebrity says that the line will visit more than 200 ports in 70 countries. What\'s more, most of these ports will be \"new to cruise travelers.\"<br /><br />Using smaller ships is going to make it possible for these vessels to go a bit more off the beaten path. Itineraries remain a bit vague at the moment, but the line promises to have a lot of Asian destinations as well as the more familiar Caribbean.<br /><br />Spa services will be emphasized, including a variety on in-room treatments for suite passengers. Each ship has two specialty restaurants on-board and boasts an extensive wine cellar.<br /><br />Check it out: <a href=\"http://www.azamarcruises.com\">http://www.azamarcruises.com</a>.','2008-11-03 15:02:11',5,0,-1,'new_cruise_line_just_sets','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/05/new-cruise-line-just-sets-sail-azamara.html',145,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'b07b0abc9684b67b2b17b125392304ed','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(450,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Teen Advisory Board',NULL,'2007-05-28 12:30:00','Royal Caribbean has always had the reputation of being family friendly. Now they\'re launching the cruise industry\'s first Teen Advisory Board. The idea is that RC will now let teens participate in developing cruise activities and vacation experiences that they want.<br /><br />The program is going to debut with the Libery of the Seas and then roll out across all ships in the fleet.<br /><br />Some ideas that have already come up: putting musical instruments on board for ice-breaker jam sessions for kids, competitive Wii video gaming, and offering teen-only dining in the Windjammer Cafe.<br /><br />RC has a 4,000 foot long Dragon\'s Flight zip-line on its private-destination location in Haiti. This is also going to feature big for teens, because it lets them travel over three-quarters of a mile 200 feet above a lush tropical landscape.<br /><br />\"Teens are more travel savvy than their parents were at their age, and they actively participate in the planning of the family vacation,\" remarked Alice Norsowrthy, senior VP of Marketing at RC.<br /><br />The program began out of a consulting group and a research project conducted in 2006 to find out what kids ages 12 to 17 want from a cruise experience. Today, there are ten teens on the board.<br /><br />RC has dedicated areas for teens only on all of its ships and was the first cruise line to introduce the concept (way back in 1992).',NULL,0,0,-1,'teen_advisory_board','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/05/teen-advisory-board.html',146,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'702953e2a3eae4b6f6f9487ad5f601e5','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(451,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Elvis Has Left the Dock',NULL,'2007-05-28 12:22:00','The first-ever Elvis Cruise is slated to sail from Jacksonville, Florida on August 30 and do a four-day tour calling on Freeport and Nassau in the Bahamas.<br /><br />Billed as the first authentic and fully licensed Elvis Cruise, the package was put together by Jazz Cruises, LLC, out of St. Louis and Carnival Cruise Lines.<br /><br />Jerry Schilling is playing host on the voyage. Schilling is a long-time friend of the King and wrote the book, <em>Me and a Guy Named Elvis</em>. The cruise will feature live shows from artists who performed with Elvis, including the TCB Band, the Jordanaires, the Imperials, the Dempseys, Ronnie McDowell, Terry Mike Jeffrey & Band, Ruby Wilson, and others.<br /><br />Other events including an Elvis tribute contest (open to all guests), question sessions with the musicians, and special party events.<br /><br />\"This cruise provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for Elvis fans to come together and enjoy the exception music and memories of one of the most celebrated performing artists of all time,\" said Carnival prez and CEO, Bob Dickinson.<br /><br />The cruise will take place on Carnival\'s Celebration which offers wi-fi internet, cellular service, three pools (including the twister water slide), and 24-hour pizza and self-service ice cream.<br /><br />To book, call Jazz Cruises LLC at 800-704-3034 or visit them at <a href=\"http://www.theelviscruise.com\">http://www.theelviscruise.com</a>.<br /><br />By the way, Jazz Cruises also does many other music-themed cruises.',NULL,0,0,-1,'elvis_has_left_the_dock','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/05/elvis-has-left-dock.html',147,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'0c82bbe359fab2fe496c6f6a4701e2ca','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(452,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Oldest College Grad to Sail on Crown Princess as Story Teller',NULL,'2007-05-28 12:17:00','This is kind of a special interest story. Maybe you\'ve heard of Nola Ochs or at least what she\'s done. At age 95, she\'s the world\'s oldest college graduate. She just graduated from the Fort Hays State University in California in April 2007.<br /><br />Nola Ochs actually started college way back in 1930, but it wasn\'t until her husband died in 1972 that she started picking up occasional community college credits. Last year, she got serious and moved the 100 miles to Fort Hayes to finish her degree.<br /><br />Her story made the Guinness Book of World Records plus she\'s been on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and got lots of other news mentions.<br /><br />When asked what she wanted to do next, Nola replied, \"To be a storyteller on a cruise ship.\"<br /><br />Princess Cruise line made the arrangements and will feature Nola Ochs on the June 17 East Caribbean sailing of the Crown Princess. She will be part of Princess\' <a href=\"mailto:Scholarship@Sea\">Scholarship@Sea</a> program. In addition to telling stories about her early life growing up on a farm in Kansas (no running water, no electricity), she will also field questions in a Q&A session.<br /><br />The cruise is an Eastern Caribbean journey, departing from Brooklyn, New York and calling on Bermuda, San Juan, St. Thomas, and Grand Turk.',NULL,0,0,-1,'oldest_college_grad_to_sail','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/05/oldest-college-grad-to-sail-on-crown.html',148,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'4aa8070a4862bbdd445f384f0ec67c3c','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(453,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Partnership for Youth Success and NCL Join Forces',NULL,'2007-05-28 12:10:00','The U.S. Army runs a program called Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS), which is an arrangement between the military and about 500 American corporations and public sector agencies. The goal is that PaYS helps Army soldiers re-integrate into the civilian workforce when their military service is completed. PaYS was set up so that talented and ambitious young people will not see the military as a detour around a career but that they can complete a tour of duty and still find a good civilian job down the road.<br /><br />Some companies participating in the PaYS program are well known to American consumers: Pepsi, BellSouth, Sears, and Dell are on the list.<br /><br />Now, too, is Norwegian Cruise Lines. In fact, it\'s the first (and at this moment the only) cruise line to be an official partner in the PaYS program.<br /><br />Soldiers who enlist may express interest in any of the PaYS positions with the understanding that they will interview for those jobs when their service is over. Right now, about 30 enlisted soliders have expressed interest in working for Norwegian Cruise Lines once they finish their terms.','2008-05-02 19:36:40',1,0,-1,'partnership_for_youth_success_and','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/05/partnership-for-youth-success-and-ncl.html',149,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'c8c6532cfbb3dc4486412b56a7b3fc85','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(454,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Bravo to NCL for Military Appreciation Program',NULL,'2007-03-01 17:23:00','Hats off to Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) which just announced that it is giving all members of the U.S. military discounted rates on all NCL and NCL sailings. It\'s part of a program they\'re calling Military Appreciation.<br /><br />The program is open to qualifying active military personnel, retired personnel and veterans. Spouses of active military members are also eligible. There are some restrictions and special conditions and military personnel must have proper military identification to show at the port of embarkation. For more information, call NCL at 866-234-0292.','2008-10-31 21:22:16',3,0,-1,'bravo_to_ncl_for_military','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/03/bravo-to-ncl-for-military-appreciation.html',150,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'3d5ead0c2dc58814e44095dabfcab0a0','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(455,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Duffers United',NULL,'2007-03-01 17:19:00','Golfers have reason to celebrate as Crystal Cruises announces a golf-themed cruise slated for August 20, 2007. This 11-day cruise around the British Isles (round trip from London) will let guests have the option of playing at the legendary St. Andrews\' Jubilee Course in Edinburgh.<br /><br />This is one of the oldest and most venerable golf courses on earth and considered by golf experts (which ain\'t us) to be one of the world\'s most challenging courses.<br /><br />But just in case that\'s not enough golf, passengers can also play at Dublin\'s K Club, The Harbour Point Golf Club in Cork, Ireland, or the Royal Belfast Golf Club. Each of these excursions allows passengers the chance to play 18 holes of world-class golf. Well, potential world-class golf on world-class links.<br /><br />Golf clinics will be held on board and Billy Casper and Jim Huber have been invited as celebrity speakers.',NULL,0,0,-1,'duffers_united','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/03/duffers-united.html',151,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'1c18813742222b835207621b23e0f288','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(456,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Alaskan Excursions',NULL,'2007-03-01 17:12:00','Celebrity Cruises just announced some of its new excursions for cruises going to Alaska. Celebrity will start its Alaskan cruise season this May and is unveiling about 158 excursions. Some of them caught our eye.<br /><ul><li>Did you ever see the Discovery show <em>The Deadliest Catch</em>? I loved it but it\'s a strange premise for a show. The viewer follows several crab boats as they work the icy and very dangerous waters of the Bering Sea. Celebrity is calling this excursion \"The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman\'s Tour\" but they\'re using a ship from <em>The Deadliest Catch</em> to take passengers out in the relatively smooth waters off the southeaster portion of Alaska where they can travel in the ships and watch seasoned fishermen at work. This is a catch-and-release tour.</li><li>How about bear watching? Celebrity has a float plane tour to one of the few spots on earth where you can observe brown and black bear salmon fishing. Definitely not catch-and-release with these guys.</li><li>Lumberjack Show allows guests to see lumberjack competitions and tour an old Indian campsite.</li><li>White Pass Railway lets guests travel along the original railroad route traveled by gold diggers (the kind who dug for gold) in a railcar retro-fitted to be 1890s style.</li></ul><p> </p>','2008-09-06 19:04:58',1,0,-1,'alaskan_excursions','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/03/alaskan-excursions.html',152,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'a28a84d4c479f5cd794464fb5a792903','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(457,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Love Boat 2007',NULL,'2007-02-23 17:44:00','Princess Cruises has always played up the <em>Love Boat</em> angle. After all, this LA-based company was the one that <em>Love Boat</em> producers turned to for help with the show. (And the <em>Love Boat</em> was a Princess ship.)<br /><br />Now Princess has opened its own Department of Romance. I guess if you\'re an LA-based cruise line, you can have departments like that at your company.  The idea was to bring together some love experts to help Princess develop and market singles and romantic voyages.<br /><br />So who\'s on the committee? Gavin MacLeod, for one, the old <em>Love Boat</em> captain himself.  Trish McDermott, a relationship expert (featured on <em>60 Minutes, The Today Show, CNN</em> and places like that),  the venerable Dr. Ruth Westheimer, and Alba Carreras, a cruise \"wedding expert.\" Ms. Carreras literally specializes in helping folks set up memorable events if they want to get married on a cruise ship.<br /><br />So what is this department doing? Check out the Princess website which now features a virtual romance section. Here you can get information aimed at the romantic traveler. Princess will also be launching a new addition to its enrichment cruise series, \"Become a Certified Romantic.\" It\'s part of its <a href=\"mailto:Scholarship@Sea\">Scholarship@Sea</a> learning program and is designed to help couples rekindle their passions. Oh, and Princess cruise passengers can order Romance by Room Service, a package that involves, among other things, strwing fresh rose petals on the bed.','2008-05-02 19:36:30',1,0,-1,'love_boat_2007','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/02/love-boat-2007.html',153,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'47d6f878178f81e0e2745d7f55138d11','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(458,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Tall Ships',NULL,'2007-02-15 12:33:00','If cruising conjures up images of enormous vessels full of swimming pools, casinos, and Vegas-style shows along with blue-haired old ladies and their gentlemen friends scoping out the midnight buffet, let me tell you about another type of cruise.<br /><br />Known as the tall ship cruise, these cruise ships are much smaller than the floating cities you see in so many cruise commercials. They have sails and although they don\'t totally operate on wind power, you will get a sense of what it was like to actually sail around the islands.<br /><br />If you thought it might be fun to travel like the guys in Pirates of the Caribbean, there are cruises for you. Wind-powered tall ships with decks that creak still ply the waters around Jamaica and other pirate dens.<br /><br />A great line for these is Windjammer. They\'re nicknamed \"barefoot cruises\" because they tend to be informal, appeal to a younger crowd, and definitely promote a party atmosphere. Like to find out more without going to a cruise site just yet? Check out <a href=\"http://www.thecruise-shopper.com/Tall%20Ships.html\">http://www.thecruise-shopper.com/Tall%20Ships.html</a>.<br /><br />The ships are smaller but that has the paradoxical effect of helping you get to know your fellow cruise-mates better. You\'ll see the same people over and over! Food is great on these vessels, but not quite as formal-fancy as some of the major lines.',NULL,0,0,-1,'tall_ships','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/02/tall-ships.html',154,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'5de946544c62c66e1d6535a9cb531a25','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(459,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Southwest Deals',NULL,'2007-02-15 12:30:00','Southwest Airlines offers cruises and they\'re just wrapping up a sale. Of course, it\'s kind of hard to tell where the sale begins and ends. They generally offer lots of \"last-minute\" specials and other things. One interesting feature is some \"new\" ships that are offering specials. These are brand new vessels on familiar lines.',NULL,0,0,-1,'southwest_deals','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/02/southwest-deals.html',155,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'fb5291f6b90de35c0f4765b5ae3595ca','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(460,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Top 10 Ships',NULL,'2007-02-09 19:32:00','The members of the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society recently voted on their top 10 cruise ships in terms of entertainment offerings. These are industry insiders, not tourists, who do the voting. Their picks:<br /><ol><li>Carnival Liberty (Carnival Cruise Line)</li><li>Queen Mary 2 (Cunard Line)</li><li>Crystal Serentiy (Crystal Cruises)</li><li> Summit (Celebrity Cruises)</li><li>Crystal Symphony (Crystal Cruises)</li><li>Constellation (Celebrity Cruises)</li><li>Crystal Harmony (Crystal Cruises)</li><li>Rotterdam (Holland American Line)</li><li>Infinity (Celebrity Cruises)</li><li>Sapphire Princess (Princess Cruises)</li></ol>','2008-10-28 11:38:54',17,0,-1,'top_10_ships','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2007/02/top-10-ships.html',156,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'2c13a79d2fc7b911c74f40a109e34dbd','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(461,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Ken','NCL Being Sued Over Dining Reservations','ncl_927584843.jpg','2008-04-30 23:24:00','In another example of what is wrong with the legal system in the US, a former passenger has brought a lawsuit against Norwegian Cruise Line because she was unable to get reservations in any of the specialty restaurants on board Norwegian Star during an 8 day cruise. The gist of the lawsuit is that the company\'s commercials are misleading and false in stating that passengers can dine where they want, when they want. Of course, as a result of not being able to dine in these restaurants, the former passenger claims that her entire vacation was ruined and is asking for compensation for the cost of the cruise as well as hotel and meal expenses.<br /><br />In addition to these claims, the suit also claims that NCL has a &quot;secret&quot; class system onboard as suite guests allegedly get preferential treatment when making reservations at the restaurants. The suit is claiming fraudulent misrepresentation, breach of implied covenant of fair dealing, and deceptive and unfair trade practices.<br /><br />Now, I\'ve never been on NCL so I don\'t know how their reservation system works but I have been on ships with specialty restaurants that require reservations. Basically, if you want to dine in these reservation only places, you had better know when and where prior to getting on the ship. It requires planning and flexibility on the part of the passenger. This woman obviously was not prepared.<br /><br />Our last cruise on Freedom of the Seas, we wanted a reservation for one of the restaurants so we immediately discussed it with the rest of our party after getting onboard and made the reservation before the ship even left. Even then, we had to settle for an earlier time than we wanted because of other reservations already being made. If you want to dine in these places, you\'ve got to have it all planned out and make the reservations as soon as you get onboard, period!<br /><br />This is just another case of a frivolous lawsuit where the person suing is taking no responsibility for what happened. Maybe, the advertisements could be misinterpreted if you\'ve never been on a cruise but with around 3000 people on board, wouldn\'t you think that you\'d need to make reservations as quickly as possible for these places. This person probably waited until the last minute to make the reservations. Simple as that. You\'ve got to do your homework. It\'s also kind of sad that the fact that not being able to eat at these few restaurants ruined an entire 8 day cruise. I imagine she found some food somewhere.','2011-01-04 16:26:31',181,1,-1,'ncl_being_sued_over_dining','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/05/ncl-being-sued-over-dining-reservations.html',157,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,NULL,NULL,'ce91d5eae5c071bcd2bfae6be303046e','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(462,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean Central Park Video',NULL,'2008-04-16 15:46:00','A neat little video from the front page of the <a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbeangenesis.com/\">Genesis website</a>.  It shows some of the line\'s past innovations and some illustrations and animation of the upcoming Genesis Central Park area<br /><br />','2008-05-29 14:08:15',2,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_central_park_video','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/04/royal-caribbean-video.html',158,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'b649044852c660cf754321e999131005','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(463,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean Confirms &quot;Central Park&quot; Feature',NULL,'2008-04-16 08:25:00','<a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbean-genesis.com/renders/central%20park_HR.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.royalcaribbean-genesis.com/renders/central%20park_HR.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br />Well, Royal Caribbean has finally started releasing some info on their upcoming Genesis build. They have confirmed what photos from the shipyard have previously suggested, an open air Central Park area surrounded by inward facing outside cabins. The open area will be about the size of a football field and feature live vegetation and grass along with other shipboard features.<br /><br />Central Park will be about as long and wider than the Royal Promenade featured on the Freedom Class ships. There will be outdoor shops and entertainment in the area as well as bars and restaurants that will offer both indoor and outdoor seating. Royal Caribbean confirmed that this is one of seven \"neighborhoods\" that will be part of the Genesis design.<br /><br />One of the more interesting features of Central Park will be the Rising Tide bar which will actually move up and down and will be the first moving bar at sea. That should be interesting. It doesn\'t appear that Central Park will feature a retractable roof so it is assumed that the Genesis will also feature a Royal Promenade as well.<br /><br />June 18th is the next big date for more info on the Genesis. Bookings are expected to begin opening in late summer.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbean-genesis.com/renders/CP%20Night%20-%20Manta%20Rays.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.royalcaribbean-genesis.com/renders/CP%20Night%20-%20Manta%20Rays.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br /><br />Here is the press release from Royal Caribbean\'s website:<br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Royal Caribbean Unveils First Architectural Marvel Onboard Project Genesis Ship<br /></strong>Central Park Brings the Outdoors In, Creating Open-air Neighborhood for Guests That Reaches to the Sky<br /><br />MIAMI, April 15, 2008 - In its latest evolution in cruise ship design, Royal Caribbean International\'s Project Genesis will bring the best of the land to sea with Central Park, a revolutionary design in which the center of the ship opens to the sky and features lush, tropical grounds spanning the length of a football field. An exquisite public gathering place featuring serene pathways, seasonal flower gardens and canopy trees, Central Park will provide cruisers with more choices in a unique outdoor space. One of the ship\'s most ground-breaking spaces, this new concept is the first of seven neighborhoods to be unveiled on Project Genesis. Each neighborhood will provide vacationers with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences in various locales based on their personal style, preference or mood.<br /><br />Elegant and lively, Central Park\'s central piazza will be the ship\'s \"town square\" which evolves from a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere during the day to a gathering space for alfresco dining and entertainment in the evening, where guests will enjoy concerts and street performances. The neighborhood is lined with balcony staterooms rising six decks high with views of the Park below and the sky above.<br /><br />Surrounding this social space will be an array of restaurants, with choices ranging from fine dining to casual chic. Guests will have the option of an elegant dinner at the new 150 Central Park or a picnic lunch from the more casual Central Park Café, where they can sit outdoors and people-watch. Other dining choices will include: Giovanni\'s Table, an Italian restaurant; Vintages wine bar; and Royal Caribbean\'s signature Chops Grille steakhouse. Several bars will be scattered throughout the Park, including the Canopy Bar, located at one of two impressive glass-domed canopies, and the unique Rising Tide bar - the first moving bar at sea. Truly an engineering feat, Rising Tide will span three decks and allow cruisers to enjoy a cocktail as they slowly ascend into Central Park and then descend back into the public spaces below. Central Park also will have stylish boutique shops, showcasing a selection of upscale merchandise.<br /><br />\"Building such a large vessel allowed us to add even more of the choices and amenities that our guests value and Central Park is a dramatic addition to our already extensive array of exciting features,\" said Richard D. Fain, Chairman &amp; CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. \"Central Park is the first of many dynamic neighborhoods on Project Genesis which will enable each guest to find his or her own space and activity.\"<br /><br />\"Our brand identity is founded in innovation and on delivering the best cruise vacation through \'WOW\' experiences,\" stated Adam Goldstein, President &amp; CEO, Royal Caribbean International. \"Central Park is a true evolution of cruise ship design and allows us to provide our guests with not only a more varied selection of balcony accommodations, but also a stunning public venue that will be a central element of the ship, both during the day and at night.\"<br /><br /></span><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Central Park Fast Facts<br /></strong><br />Central Park is located on Deck 8 of the ship, with dimensions of 62 feet (19 meters) wide and 328 feet (100 meters) long. The sophisticated neighborhood will include 334 staterooms overlooking the Park, 254 with balconies.<br /><br />Central Park will be landscaped with tropical foliage, including seasonal flowers, shrubs and trees. Drawing on the concept of unexpected surprises and intrigue, garden spaces throughout the Park will sprout from charming pathways. Drifts of Calla Lilies among Giant Elephant Ears, Red Ginger, Rabbit Foot Ferns and Zebra Calathea are some of the plant life guests will discover. Trees, some eventually reaching more than two-and-a-half decks tall, include Black Olive, Cuban Laurel, Cherry of the Rio Grande, and Painted and Golden Bamboo.<br /><br />Surprises in the Park include quiet reading corners; a Chess Garden with large-scale pieces; the Pergola Garden, an interpretive garden featuring vegetation from a host of Caribbean locales; and a Sculpture garden, highlighting work by international artists.<br /><br />Irrigation and drainage systems will be incorporated, along with micro-climate control techniques.<br /><br />An on-site horticulturist will provide educational classes for guests seeking to learn more about flora.<br /><br />The Crystal Canopies, two impressive arched-glass domes, one with a bar, will be a focal point of Central Park and provide sunlight into the ship\'s inner public spaces.<br /><br /></span><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Restaurants and dining options in the Central Park neighborhood include:<br /></strong><br />150 Central Park - The most exclusive dining venue on the ship, 150 Central Park combines leading-edge cuisine with leading-edge design. An observation window into the kitchen of this stylish restaurant will give Central Park passersby the opportunity to observe the executive chef in action. Open for dinner.<br /><br />Chops Grille - Continuing the tradition, Royal Caribbean\'s popular signature steakhouse will offer premium cut, quality meats in an upscale, contemporary setting. Open for dinner.<br /><br />Giovanni\'s Table - Influenced by the Tuscan countryside, Giovanni\'s will be a casual new Italian restaurant concept offering toasted herbal breads, pizzas, salads, pastas, Italian sandwiches, braised meat dishes and stews. Rustic with a contemporary flair, dishes are served family style in an indoor and outdoor setting to provide an alfresco experience in Central Park. Open for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />Central Park Café - A casual dining choice providing a high level of variety and flexibility, Central Park Café is an indoor/outdoor gourmet market with walk-up counters. From freshly prepared salads and made-to-order sandwiches to paninis, crepes and hearty soups, guests order directly from the chefs behind the food stations. European pastries, sublime chocolates and decadent fudge round out the offerings. Open for breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner and late night treats.<br /><br />Vintages - Always a popular hot spot for Royal Caribbean guests on Voyager- and Freedom-class ships, the Vintages wine bar evolves into a larger space on Project Genesis, offering a variety of options for those seeking a tropical white Riesling or a mocha-inflected Merlot. Great for a pre-dinner rendezvous, Vintages also provides a selection of cheeses and a full tapas menu to accompany a robust selection of fine wines. Open for lunch and dinner. </span></em><br /><em><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\">Central Park will feature upscale retail boutiques for discerning travelers, including specialty outlets such as The Parkside Gallery, showcasing original artwork for purchase, and Picture This, a portrait studio.<br /><br />When she launches in late 2009, Project Genesis will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 GRT, carry 5,400 guests, and feature 2,700 staterooms. The ship will sail from her home port in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. In 2010, she will be joined by a sister ship. Additional information is available at </span><a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbeangenesis.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span\"font-size:85%;\">http://www.royalcaribbeangenesis.com/</span></a><span\"font-size:85%;\">.<br /><br />Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand. </span></em>',NULL,0,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_confirms_quot_central','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/04/royal-caribbean-confirms-central-park.html',159,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'03e5b9f582a270018014d900a9c25a9e','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(464,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean taking the &quot;Floating City&quot; thing to new extremes.',NULL,'2008-03-31 09:28:00','I just read a news article on <a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com\" target=\"_blank\">Cruise Critic</a> that featured an interesting picture from the drydock where Royal Caribbean\'s first \"Genesis\" ship is being built. The picture shows that there appear to be two \"tower\" sections of cabins being constructed on the top midship area that seem to have outside cabins on four sides.<br /><br />The article goes on to speculate about what this may be a sign of. It could be confirmation of a boardwalk or \"central park\" type area that would be situated between these \"towers\". The article also wonders just how high the \"towers\" will be when finished, if the walkway at the top of the towers will remain, and whether or not the open space will be covered by a retractable roof.<br /><br />We\'ll just have to wait. Not long hopefully, since info is supposed to start being revealed in a couple of weeks.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=2472\" target=\"_blank\">Here</a> is a link to the full article.<br /><br />Here is the photo:<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/news/genesistowersnews.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/news/genesistowersnews.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a>',NULL,0,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_taking_the_quot','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/03/royal-caribbean-taking-floating-city.html',160,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'9f17ad4b149cd5c6b43109f04f9d65dc','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(465,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Images and detail of RCI\'s &quot;Genesis&quot; coming soon.',NULL,'2008-03-28 08:44:00','Mark your calendars for April 15.  According to <a href=\"http://cruisebusiness.com/\">Cruise Business Review</a>, that\'s the date that \"Genesis\" info and images will be release by Royal Caribbean.  I imagine we can expect some new industry firsts.  Can\'t wait.',NULL,0,0,-1,'images_and_detail_of_rci','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/03/images-and-detail-of-rcis-genesis.html',161,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'dc9375090cf6bb5bd97d903f7a5e8ac3','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(466,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Freedom of the Seas changing home ports',NULL,'2008-03-20 10:36:00','According to a report on <a href=\"http://www.cruisebusiness.com/\">Cruise Business Review</a>, Royal Caribbean has reached an agreement with Port Canaveral to home port Freedom of the Seas there. The date for the change appears to be May 2009. Of course, this would make Freedom the largest ship to home port in Port Canaveral. The report further states that Mariner of the Seas, which currently home ports at Port Canaveral, will be moving to the west coast.','2008-05-29 14:16:22',2,0,-1,'freedom_of_the_seas_changing','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/03/freedom-of-seas-changing-home-ports.html',162,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'3d73ee26ff80995d5bca5e9afdaac123','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(467,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Celebrity Cruises reveals entertainment options on Solstice',NULL,'2008-03-08 16:14:00','Celebrity released details on some of the entertainment options that will be available onboard the upcoming 118,000 ton Celebrity Solstice. Special shows will debut on the Solstice along with a variety of venues.<br /><br />Among the venues, the Sky Observation Lounge sounds pretty cool with it\'s mood lighting and stunning views. There will also be a small 200 guest room for late night comedy shows, cooking demonstrations and movies. Celebrity says that shows here will replay as often as possible to avoid the necessity for ticketing or reservations. Quasar will be Celebrity\'s first dedicated nightclub with it\'s retro 60s and 70s theme and the pool area will receive some attention as well.<br /><br />I haven\'t been on a Celebrity ship in almost 10 years but I\'m really getting excited about this one.<br /><br />For more info check out the press release from <a href=\"http://www.celebritycruises.com/\" target=\"_blank\">celebritycruises.com</a>:<br /><br /><br /><strong><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">New Entertainment on Celebrity Solstice is Sheer Poetry </span></em></strong><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Miami - (March 07, 2008 ) - Eight months from its launch, Celebrity Cruises\' newest ship, Celebrity Solstice, already is being heralded as the most exciting ship entering the market in 2008. In recent months, Celebrity has revealed a series of brand-defining, first-in-the-industry features on Celebrity Solstice, including staterooms 15 percent larger than those on previous Celebrity ships, a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass, a glassblowing show and studio developed with The Corning Museum of Glass, and unrivaled dining venues offering trendsetting cuisine and design.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Today, Celebrity set the stage for more of the widely varied entertainment guests can experience on Celebrity Solstice, including new theater productions through an exclusive partnership with Poet Theatricals.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Led by Michael McPherson and Patrice Marques - whose backgrounds include both performance and production with Franco Dragone, Circo Luci, FOUR: Spirit of the Elements, and the creation and production of the first worldwide touring show of the Lido de Paris - Poet Theatricals is creating three original shows that can be seen only on Celebrity Solstice.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"Our inspiration for the new shows stems extensively from the extraordinary style and design of the ship, not to mention its name,\" said Michael McPherson, Poet Theatricals. \"Celebrity Solstice conjures up images of light and an alluring ancient mystique, so our shows are built around that theme.\"</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">The three shows are:</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"Solstice\": This European-style theatrical circus is built around the clash of day and night, and includes vocalists, physical comedy, breathtaking group acrobatic and aerial performances and other specialty acts, in a celestial celebration. \"Ghost Light\": On the eve of an old Broadway theater\'s closing, the cast performing the venue\'s final show reminisces about all the productions the theater has hosted, leading to the venue to illuminate once again, in celebration of Broadway favorites past and present.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"Pulse\": Guests aren\'t likely to sit still when this show’s central character, \"Rhythm Man,\" ignites a motion and vocal spectacular driven by the widely varied music and instruments that create the beat. Complementing the three shows are a variety of specialty acts, also created with Poet Theatricals, including still performers, ring jugglers, fairy characters and a variety of acrobatic artists. \"Travelers today have experienced such a variety of entertainment, so we need to ensure we continually offer new and unexpected options, along with some of the most popular programming,\" said Celebrity Cruises\' Vice President of Hotel Operations and Entertainment, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. \"We think we\'ve accomplished that with the breadth of entertainment guests will experience on Celebrity Solstice.\" The state-of-the-art theater on Celebrity Solstice seats 1,115 guests and has been expressly designed to optimize sight lines and bring guests closer to the entertainers. A curved stage creates an almost theater-in-the-round experience. The traditional orchestra pit was omitted to allow for more guest seating in the sought-after central area of the venue, with musicians\' platforms instead positioned to the left and right of the stage.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><br />In addition to shows in the theater on Celebrity Solstice, the abundance of entertainment onboard will extend into multiple other venues, as well:</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Sky Observation Lounge</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">The new signature lounge atop Celebrity Solstice will invite guests to participate in multiple styles of dance, with the entire venue transforming to reflect each nightly theme. From wild red for tango nights to midnight blue for ballroom dance, guests will have the opportunity to participate in lessons during the day, in preparation for dancing the night away.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Celebrity Central</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Ideally-suited for late-night comedy shows, cooking demonstrations, enrichment lectures and feature films, this 200-guest venue also will present proprietary, must-see shows and events.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Entertainment Court</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Located in the center of the ship and flanked by Celebrity Central and the hip Quasar nightclub, the Entertainment Court will serve as an entertainment hub on Celebrity Solstice. The Court\'s unique design and proximity to Quasar allows for opening up both venues to create a larger entertainment atmosphere at night. During daytime hours, the Court might bring such surprises as psychics and caricature artists to entertain guests of all ages.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Quasar</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Guests who love the mod, futuristic designs of the \'60s and \'70s will find Quasar particularly captivating. Cocoon-shaped acrylic chairs suspended from the ceiling will enhance the drama of the space, as will state-of-the-art lighting and four large LED screens programmed to create a nightly light show synchronized with the music.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">The Pool Deck</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">An unique series of animated water fountains that can be synchronized to music will serve as a constant source of surprise on the pool deck onboard Celebrity Solstice. Meanwhile, live music will be performed on the adjacent stage on days at sea, as well as during themed parties and other special events.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Michael\'s Club</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">A signature space across the Celebrity fleet, Michael\'s Club on Celebrity Solstice will invite privacy and intimacy, amidst a backdrop of soothing piano and jazz music, and rich, comfortable furnishings.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Ensemble Lounge</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">The ideal setting for a cocktail with live music prior to an extraordinary specialty dining experience, the Ensemble Lounge\'s aubergine accents and stylish, contemporary furnishings will reflect a period when jazz greats Duke Ellington and Count Basie reigned supreme.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and Australia through its cruisetour affiliate. Noted for \"The Top Cruise Ships in the World,\" as voted by the readers of Conde\' Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers’ poll), Celebrity\'s current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit Celebrity Cruises website. And for more information about Celebrity Solstice, visit </span></em><a href=\"http://www.cruisecelebritysolstice.com/\"><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Cruise Celebrity Solstice site</span></em></a><em><span\"font-size:78%;\"><span\"font-size:85%;\">.</span> </span></em>','2008-09-07 01:59:59',2,0,-1,'celebrity_cruises_reveals_entertainment_options','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/03/celebrity-cruises-reveals-entertainment.html',163,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'7c679731d0ecf78759c2eaad5a1070ea','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(468,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Fourth Freedom Class ship on the way for Royal Caribbean',NULL,'2008-03-03 20:37:00','Reports have surfaced that appear to confirm the rumors that Royal Caribbean will build a fourth Freedom Class ship. They have entered into a preliminary agreement with <span>Aker</span> Yards, termed a \"Memorandum of Understanding\", to build another ship in the Freedom Class.<br /><br />Presently, the yard is constructing the first of the massive Genesis ships for Royal Caribbean. The third Freedom Class ship, <span>Independence</span> of the Seas is due out in a couple of months, a few weeks ahead of schedule. This new Freedom ship is expected to be completed by the second half of 2011.',NULL,0,0,-1,'fourth_freedom_class_ship_on','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/03/fourth-freedom-class-ship-on-way-for.html',164,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'ea0d48daf7f1cebca999c8720c11a80c','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(469,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Explorer of the Seas involved in rescue at sea.',NULL,'2008-02-28 09:02:00','On February 16 Royal Caribbean\'s Explorer of the Seas responded to a distress call on the way to the Caribbean from Port Liberty, NJ.  The call was from a disabled sailboat which was taking on water in heavy seas.  The crew dispatched a rescue boat and took the three men on board the sailboat back to the ship.  Apparently they had left from Baltimore on their way to Key West when they ran into some bad weather.<br /><br />Now, rescues by cruise ships at sea are nothing new but this one was a bit unique.  Once on board, the men from the sailboat were examined by the ships doctor then given cabins, food and clothes.  Not only that, but once the ship reached San Juan, Royal Caribbean paid for the men to fly to their intended destination, Key West.  How about that.  Pretty cool.  Nice gesture on the part of Royal Caribbean.','2008-09-23 10:26:24',8,0,-1,'explorer_of_the_seas_involved','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/02/explorer-of-seas-involved-in-rescue-at.html',165,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,2,0,0,NULL,NULL,'38dd0001a4a946acfb3db4f97cadd1a7','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(470,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Celebrity increases Solstice Class to five ships',NULL,'2008-02-25 09:55:00','Celebrity cruises has decided to add an additional ship to the existing order with Meyer Werft Shipyards. This fifth ship in the Solstice Class will be delivered in fall 2012.<br /><br />The first ship in the class, Celebrity Solstice, will debut later this year and will be followed by Equinox in 2009 and Eclipse in 2010. The fourth ship in the original order is currently unnamed and will debut in 2011.<br /><br />Some reports indicate that Celebrity may begin phasing out some of their smaller, older ships as the Solstice ships come on line.  Most likely that would include the current ships Century, Mercury, and Galaxy.<br /><br />I may have to book a cruise on one of these ships when they come out.  They look very nice and I\'m sure they will be innovative and well designed.  Can\'t wait.','2008-09-10 18:34:53',5,0,-1,'celebrity_increases_solstice_class_to','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/02/celebrity-increases-solstice-class-to.html',166,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'f7730a4362238c4330a37bd664fdd610','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(471,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Will Royal Caribbean\'s Genesis Be Delayed ?',NULL,'2008-02-20 08:30:00','<a href=\"http://www.rykogreis.no/images/content/Uke%207/RCCL_Genesisweb.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://www.rykogreis.no/images/content/Uke%207/RCCL_Genesisweb.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a><br /><br />Due to enter service next year, Royal Caribbean\'s first 220,000 ton, 5,400 passenger Genesis ship may be delayed. Reports are indicating that there are several aspects of the construction that are behind schedule. According to <a href=\"http://www.cruisebusiness.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Cruise Business Online</a>, The delays are due to logistics and planning issues which could possibly impact the second ship in the series as well.<br /><br />Aker Yards has apparently issued three profit warnings since June due to problems in Finland with their ferry building operations where one ferry was delivered three months behind schedule.<br /><br />The reported problems with the Genesis build include some of the 600 ton sections of the ship not being properly fitted out with cabling and plumbing as they should have been. This work will then have to be done once the section is in place which will require more time to complete. Also, some of the completed cabin modules have been delivered to the shipyard and are sitting in the parking lots exposed to the cold weather which may damage the finished woodwork and laminates in the cabins.<br /><br />In response, Aker Yards issued a press release stating that the delivery date for the first Genesis ship has not changed. Autumn 2009 is still the expected target. We\'ll see what happens.',NULL,0,0,-1,'will_royal_caribbean_s_genesis','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/02/will-royal-caribbeans-genesis-be.html',167,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'b3a06090419eca354a5738432496581d','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(472,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','NCL to withdraw Pride of Aloha from Hawaii',NULL,'2008-02-12 09:07:00','<a href=\"http://www.trans-inst.org/img/aloha.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.trans-inst.org/img/aloha.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><span\"font-size:65%;\">Pride of Aloha</span><br /><br />NCL\'s problems with their American flagged branch continue. They have announced that the Pride of Aloha will leave the Hawaii service on May 11, 2008 and be transferred to Star Cruises to be re-deployed in Asia under another name. This is now the second of the original three ships that made up the NCL America brand that has been transferred to another market. It has apparently been much harder than they thought to maintain an American flagged fleet with mostly American crews. This seemingly failed experiment has been plagued by higher expenses and very poor service reviews.<br /><br />They have indicated that they are going to continue the deployment of the newer (and very ugly) Pride of America through 2010.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.cruising.org.au/filelibrary/images/Cruiselines/ncl/PO%20America.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.cruising.org.au/filelibrary/images/Cruiselines/ncl/PO%20America.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><span\"font-size:65%;\">Pride of America<br /></span><br />Here is the press release from NCL\'s website:<br /><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><u>NCL Corporation Announces Adjustments to Hawai\'i Fleet </u></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><br />Company announces Pride of America\'s deployment through 2010 Pride of Aloha to leave the fleet in May<br /><br />Honolulu - Feb 11, 2008 ---<br /><br />NCL Corporation (\"NCL\") today announced the withdrawal of Pride of Aloha from the Hawai\'i market effective May 11, 2008. The ship is being transferred to Star Cruises and will be reflagged and deployed in Asia in the summer of 2008.</span></em><br /></span><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">The remaining year-round ship in Hawai\'i will be the larger and newer Pride of America, introduced in 2005, a vessel specifically designed and built for Hawai\'i cruising. The company announced, and put on sale, Pride of America\'s sailings through 2010 offering its popular inter-island cruises departing every Saturday from Honolulu.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Since the announcement a year ago of Pride of Hawai\'i\'s temporary transfer to NCL\'s European deployment, renamed as Norwegian Jade, the company has embarked on a major fleet-wide initiative called Freestyle 2.0 featuring significant product and hardware upgrades to its modern fleet, including Pride of America. The Freestyle 2.0 program will further enhance the on-board experience taking Freestyle Cruising to the next level. Enhancements include a major investment in the total dining experience; upgrading the stateroom experience; new wide ranging on-board activities for all guests; additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony, suite and villa guests; and the establishment of casual action-station restaurants taking the place of the \"traditional\" buffet experience. Freestyle 2.0 will be in place on Pride of America and across NCL\'s fleet, now the youngest fleet in the cruise industry, by the middle of May 2008.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"Pride of Aloha pioneered the new inter-island market but, as we move forward with Freestyle 2.0 to take our product to the next level across what is already the youngest fleet in the industry, we cannot justify further investment in this ship,\" said Andy Stuart, NCL\'s executive vice president of marketing, sales and passenger services. \"Withdrawing Pride of Aloha was an extremely difficult but necessary commercial decision; however we see a strong future for the long-term flagship in Hawai\'i, Pride of America. In Pride of America, we have created a commercially successful modern U.S. Flag cruise ship home ported in Hawai\'i - the first time that has ever been achieved. With Pride of America, we are offering a high quality product, on a world class ship sailing one of the most exciting itineraries available in the industry.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"With today\'s announcement of Pride of America\'s itinerary through 2010, our guests and travel partners can choose a Freestyle Cruising vacation on a big, modern ship visiting all four main islands and featuring more time to explore ashore than any other cruise line sailing in Hawai\'i. In the longer term, as demand continues to grow for this premium experience, we hope to bring back our other modern purpose-built U.S.-flag ship, Pride of Hawai\'i.\"</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Guests booked on Pride of Aloha</strong></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">For guests booked on Pride of Aloha from May 11, 2008 and beyond, NCL is holding space and will offer the same cruise fare as they currently have paid on their Pride of Aloha cruise if they would like to transfer to the same week on Pride of America, departing one day earlier. In addition:-Guests will receive a $100 per person on-board credit (up to $200 per stateroom).-For guests who made their air and/or hotel arrangements through NCL, NCL will protect the rates they currently have paid and cover any air or hotel change fees.-For guests who purchased their own air, NCL will protect up to the first $100 per person of any increase in air costs and cover up to $75 per person in air change fees.-For guests who made independent hotel arrangements, NCL will cover any hotel change fees up to $25 per person.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><br />Guests may book any other NCL cruise and receive a $100 per person on-board credit (up to $200 per stateroom) if they rebook by March 7, 2008. In addition, NCL will cover up to $75 per person in air change fees and up to $25 per person in hotel change fees. Guests may cancel their cruise and receive a full refund if NCL is notified by March 7, 2008. In addition, NCL will cover up to $75 per person in air change fees and up to $25 per person in hotel change fees. After March 7, 2008 cancellation fees will apply in accordance with NCL\'s cancellation policy.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Pride of America\'s deployment announced through 2010</strong></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Following a 14-day scheduled dry dock in Hawai\'i from April 26, 2008 to May 10, 2008, Pride of America will sail its four main island itinerary with a change in order of ports including an overnight in Nawiliwili, Kaua\'i; an afternoon cruise of the breathtaking Napali Coast; Hilo, Hawai\'i; an evening sail by Mount K+lauea; Kona, Hawai\'i; and an overnight in Kahului, Maui.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">All of the Freestyle 2.0 enhancements will be rolled out on Pride of America during the ship\'s dry-dock.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Launched in 2005, Pride of America has over 660 balcony staterooms, the broadest range of family-friendly interconnecting cabins available at sea, a choice of nine different restaurants and 12 dining options, multiple entertainment venues, three pools, extensive children\'s facilities, an abundance of spacious public rooms, and the largest dedicated meeting facilities at sea. All inspired by the diverse regions of America.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>Cabotage Issues</strong></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Commenting on the Pride of Aloha withdrawal, NCL\'s President and CEO Colin Veitch said: \"Our Hawai\'i business has been extraordinarily difficult, and although we have progressively established a stable operation, delivering a good product in a great destination, the overall price level in the market has been driven down, to a significant degree, by an unprecedented expansion of capacity from low-cost foreign flag ships based on the west coast operating domestic Hawai\'i itineraries that the Customs Service has indicated are legally the preserve of U.S. flag ships.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"We have invested heavily in U.S. flag cruising in reliance on our nation\'s cabotage laws providing a level playing field in Hawai\'i. Our remaining ship, Pride of America, is generating an encouraging profit now, and we project a continued improvement in this one-ship operation as the unique nature of Hawai\'i, from a cabotage standpoint, is clarified and restored. In due course, we would then expect, and hope, to be able to grow our U.S. flag business back to two profitable ships by reintroducing Pride of Hawai\'i.\"</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong>About NCL Corporation</strong></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (\"F3\") ships for delivery in 2010.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.</span></em><br /><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">For high resolution, downloadable images, please log onto NCL\'s Web site at </span></em><a href=\"http://www.ncl.com/pressroom\"><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">www.ncl.com/pressroom</span></em></a><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">. For further information on NCL Corporation, contact NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (866) 234-0292.<br /><br /></span></em><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em>','2008-05-29 14:12:05',1,0,-1,'ncl_to_withdraw_pride_of','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/02/ncl-to-withdraw-pride-of-aloha-from.html',168,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'6067802c0cb20a01cc39d8f90fb4b96f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(473,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Dining choices revealed for Celebrity Solstice',NULL,'2008-02-07 08:37:00','<a href=\"http://www.cruisebusiness.com/images/20070619/Celebrity_Solstice_exterior_470px.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.cruisebusiness.com/images/20070619/Celebrity_Solstice_exterior_470px.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br />Celebrity Cruises just revealed 10 dining venues that will be featured on board the upcoming Solstice. Known for the quality of the food and dining experience, Celebrity partnered with some of the best designers in the restaurant industry. It\'s unknown which of the dining options will be included and which will be additional cost.<br /><br />Here is the press release from Celebrity\'s web site:<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>Celebrity Cruises Unveils \"Top 10\" on Celebrity Solstice</strong> </em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Miami - (February 06, 2008 ) - Ten of 2008\'s hottest new restaurants will open this fall, but diners won\'t need special connections to book a table. In fact, they won\'t even need directions, since the GPS coordinates will change daily. That\'s because the 10 restaurants are all on one of the world\'s most eagerly awaited new cruise ships: Celebrity Cruises\' Celebrity Solstice.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>\"The dining experience has always been central to our guests\' cruise experience, and on Celebrity Solstice, we\'ll present the extraordinary service the brand is known for, in venues designed to perfectly complement the spectacular cuisine,\" said Celebrity\'s President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. \"The larger size of Celebrity Solstice allows us to offer more options for our guests, with menus created by some of the best talent in the business.\"</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>\"Celebrity has long been recognized as a leader in the culinary arena, and we\'re clearly taking it to the next level with Celebrity Solstice,\" said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Celebrity\'s parent company, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. \"In addition to outstanding cuisine, we believe the brand also will be recognized for some of the most impressive design work in the industry when Celebrity Solstice sets sail.\"</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Celebrity partnered with some of the world\'s best designers in the hospitality business to create the restaurants onboard Celebrity Solstice; among them, preeminent restaurant and hotel designer Adam Tihany, who created such lauded restaurants as Per Se, Jean Georges, Le Cirque, The Sea Grill and Osteria del Circo in New York; Aureole, Bouchon and Seablue in Las Vegas; and Monte\'s and the chic Mandarin Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>In his first foray into design onboard a cruise ship, Tihany created Celebrity Solstice\'s dramatic, two-level Grand Épernay dining room; the classic steakhouse, \"Tuscan Grille,\" and the stylishly casual \"Oceanview Café and Grill\" on the ship\'s lido deck. His sophisticated, often groundbreaking design is evident on Celebrity Solstice in the Grand Épernay\'s two-story wine tower, to the Napa-meets-Old-World-Italy ambience in the ship\'s inviting Tuscan Grille.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Driving the creation of the tantalizing menus for each venue are Celebrity\'s Vice President of Food &amp; Beverage Jacques Van Staden, in conjunction with Celebrity\'s culinary consultant Blau &amp; Associates. Van Staden was previously one of the top chefs and restaurateurs in Washington, D.C. and Las Vegas. Blau &amp; Associates is credited with shaping the dining experience at high profile destinations such as the Bellagio and Wynn Resort and Casino, and developing the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino\'s Simon kitchen + bar, named one of the best new restaurants in America in 2003 by Esquire magazine.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>A \"Taste\" of Celebrity Solstice\'s Dining Venues:</strong></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>The Grand Épernay</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Old Hollywood glamour meets stunning contemporary design in this refined, sweeping main dining room created by Adam Tihany, highlighted by a distinctive, dramatic, two-story glass wine tower. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, evening entrée options include peppered bison filet with red onion preserve; smoked filet with lentil stew, sultana caper and beef jus; and taro-crusted salmon filet with glazed Brussels sprouts, turnip hash and apple cider sauce. A champagne collection from the region inspiring the venue\'s name includes Perrier Jouet Grand Brut, Moet &amp; Chandon Dom Perignon, Heidsieck and Monopole, Champagne Pol Roger, and Louis Roederer Cristal.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Tuscan Grille</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>The Old World charm of Italy is the inspiration behind this Tihany-designed specialty venue, where guests enter through an archway reminiscent of a fine Napa Valley wine cellar. There, diners can enjoy Caesar salads prepared tableside, antipasti bar, Kobe beef, and a variety of steaks, all paired with a robust list of fine Italian wines.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Silk Harvest</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Exotic Asia is the theme of this contemporary, casual specialty restaurant designed by RTKL. The menu serves up a fusion of hot and cold, spicy and mild Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and Indian selections, while the specially-selected libations include a variety of sakes, Asian-influenced martinis and beers, and cocktails created with ginger root and acai berries.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Blu</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>\"Clean cuisine\" is served in this soothing specialty venue designed by Celebrity\'s own Newbuilding and Design team. A venue exclusively for guests booked in Celebrity Solstice\'s new AquaClass category of accommodations, Blu is open for other guests on a space-available basis. The menu features savory appetizers such as roasted beet salad with goat cheese; Mediterranean chopped salad with pita chips and pomegranate vinaigrette; and entrees including blackened ahi tuna, pan-seared filet mignon, and herb-crusted rack of lamb.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Murano</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>A twist on the restaurant of the same name on Celebrity Century, and reflective of the specialty restaurants on the cruise line\'s Millennium-class fleet, Murano presents a blend of classic and modern Continental cuisine. The warm, elegant restaurant designed by BG Studios of New York features dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, with romantic ocean views that pair beautifully with the fine Riedel stemware, exquisite bone china and gleaming silverware. The wine cellar offers options from around the world, with a focus on boutique-style and limited-production vintages. Appetizers include warm goat cheese pancakes with sweet bell pepper nage; salads include a combination of Maine lobster, white asparagus and black truffle lobster aioli; and entrees run the gamut from spice-roasted duck with raisin-apple compote to pan-seared turbot with Alaskan King crab ragout.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Bistro on Five</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>A variety of specialty crepes highlight the menu in this casually-chic location, where guests are welcome to take out selections, but the ocean views are likely to entice them to stay. Designed by Wilson Butler Associates, the venue\'s creperie is complemented with sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and entrees including quiche, fish and chips, baked ziti and chicken pot pie nearly around-the-clock.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Café al Bacio &amp; Gelateria</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>This upscale coffeehouse radiates all the energy of a popular European café, highlighted by a sophisticated gelateria serving authentic gelatos and Italian ices, as well as signature and specialty coffees, teas, fresh-baked pastries, chocolate truffles and petit fours. </em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>AquaSpa Café</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>The AquaSpa Café is the perfect option for guests seeking quick, lighter fare. A signature venue introduced on Celebrity\'s Millennium-class fleet, and designed by RTKL, the soothing, airy setting invites guests to dine at comfortable tables while soaking up the tranquility of the Solarium, or enjoy their cuisine while nestled in the comfort of the lounge chairs.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Mast Grill &amp; Bar</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Comfort food is the focus of this ultra-casual, poolside venue, where the simple, fast and tasty options include burgers grilled to order, tacos, nachos, hot dogs, bratwurst, chicken wings, lamb gyros, Reuben sandwiches, and onion rings.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><u>Oceanview Café and Grill</u></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Embodying the casually chic atmosphere of a European marketplace, this Tihany-designed restaurant offers extensive menus with international flavors that change to reflect the regions in which the ship is sailing. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the venue offers plenty of outdoor seating for dining al fresco and soaking up the sun and sea air. Inside, during evening hours, a special section of the venue features tables draped with linen tablecloths for yet another casual dining option.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and Australia through its cruisetour affiliate. Noted for \"The Top Cruise Ships in the World,\" as voted by the readers of Conde\' Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers’ poll), Celebrity\'s current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit Celebrity Cruises website And for more information about Celebrity Solstice, visit </em></span><a href=\"http://www.cruisecelebritysolstice.com/\"><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Celebrity Solstice</span> sitelet.</em></a><em> </em>','2008-09-10 18:35:31',9,0,-1,'dining_choices_revealed_for_celebrity','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/02/dining-choices-revealed-for-celebrity.html',169,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,'052f2adeef98043b00ca696fef7f636a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(474,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','New Customs Rules Go Into Effect In February',NULL,'2008-01-29 08:27:00','Beginning February 18th new rules implemented by the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Protection will require all cruise ships departing from U.S. ports to submit a passenger manifest to them no less than 60 minutes before leaving port. What this means is that all passengers have to be on board and checked in before that.<br /><br />Some lines such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Regent, Crystal, Oceania and Princess have introduced policies that require passengers to be on board at least 90 minutes prior to departure. If they arrive late, they may be refused boarding. NCL has implemented a 60 minute rule but advise passengers to arrive at least 2 hours prior to sailing.<br /><br />It\'s usually a good idea to get to the pier as soon as possible.  Even though most lines state a boarding time, it really depends on how fast they can get the passengers from the previous voyage off and start the turnaround.  I\'ve always arrived 3 to 4 hours early and have never had to wait until the stated boarding time.  If you\'re flying in, I\'d recommend arriving the night before but if that\'s not possible, make sure you have a several hour window to get to the pier.  You never know when or why a flight may be delayed.','2009-03-13 21:29:50',4,0,-1,'new_customs_rules_go_into','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/new-customs-rules-go-into-effect-in.html',170,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'416cafd732fe23b6278f7892708b3910','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(475,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean and USA Today want you to name the two largest cruise ships in the world.',NULL,'2008-01-22 08:25:00','Royal Caribbean and USA Today just recently announced a contest to name the two \"Genesis\" ships under construction. The winner will attend a naming ceremony and receive an all expenses paid week long trip on the ship. Just as Royal Caribbean\'s godmother contests did, this breaks with maritime tradition in allowing a regular member of the public to name the ships.<br /><br />I\'d better get busy coming up with some names.<br /><br />Here is the official press release:<br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span\"font-size:100%;\"><strong><br /></strong></span><br /><em><strong>Your Ship Has Come In... Now Name It!<br />USA TODAY Announces Unprecedented Contest<br /></strong><br />McLean, Va. - In an unprecedented move, USA TODAY and Royal Caribbean International announced a contest today that will provide the everyday traveller the opportunity to name the world\'s two largest cruise ships, presently code-named \"Genesis I\" and \"Genesis II.\" The winner of the naming contest will attend the gala naming ceremony as well as embark on a week-long, first-class, expense-paid cruise vacation on the ship he or she named.<br /><br />The six-week-long contest breaks maritime tradition where heads of state, corporations and governments selected the name of a ship. It is believed this is the first time that a member of the general public, not associated with the cruise industry, will have the chance to name a major cruise ship.<br /><br />The contest kicks off today in USA TODAY and on <a href=\"http://www.usatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\">USATODAY.com</a>. To launch the contest, Gene Sloan, USA TODAY travel reporter, will look at how ships are traditionally named and how repetitive cruise ship names historically have been. Readers will then be invited to submit their names for the new ships at namethatship.usatoday.com between now and February 29.<br /><br />The to-be-named Genesis I and II, weighing in at 220,000 tons and accommodating 5,400 guests each, debut in 2009 and 2010. Known for introducing cruise-industry firsts such as the Royal Promenade - an entertainment boulevard of restaurants, bars and shops - rock walls, and surf simulators, Royal Caribbean seeks entries that best encapsulate the universe of experiences a Royal Caribbean cruise provides its guests, rather than ones that focus solely on the sheer size of the ships.<br /><br />Full contest and prize description and official rules can be found at <a href=\"http://namethatship.usatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\">namethatship.usatoday.com</a>. The Name That Ship contest coincides with the launch of USA TODAY\'s new cruise community. Readers can log on to cruises.usatoday.com for an active community of cruise enthusiasts and get an extensive resource of useful information for all their cruise travelling needs. Readers also can check out Gene Sloan\'s cruising blog and join the discussion at USATODAY\'s new cruise forum all at <a href=\"http://cruises.usatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\">cruises.usatoday.com</a>.<br /><br /><br />Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand through its cruisetour division.<br /><br />USA TODAY is the nation\'s top-selling newspaper. It is published via satellite at 34 locations in the USA and at four sites abroad. With a total average daily circulation of 2.3 million, USA TODAY is available worldwide. USA TODAY is published by Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI). The USA TODAY brand also includes: USATODAY.com, an award-winning news and information Web site that is updated 24 hours per day; USA TODAY Sports Weekly, a magazine for enthusiasts of college and professional football and baseball; USA TODAY Mobile, offering up-to-the minute news and information on a variety of mobile platforms and devices; and USA TODAY LIVE, the television arm of the USA TODAY brand that brings the spirit and quality of the newspaper to television.</em> </span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_and_usa_today','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/royal-caribbean-and-usa-today-want-you.html',171,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'05fc44b4c316b19a83c6e3783825e27f','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(476,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Celebrity\'s Solstice to feature a park with real grass.',NULL,'2008-01-21 09:39:00','<a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/news/celebritylawnnews.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/news/celebritylawnnews.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a><br /><br />Celebrity Cruises announced on Friday that their upcoming Solstice Class ships will feature a country club themed area called the Lawn Club. This will be an industry first park like area complete with real live growing grass. The Lawn Club will be located on the top deck and will be just over a half an acre in size which makes it 1.7 times larger than an olympic size swimming pool and larger than 8 tennis courts.<br /><br />Maintained by a full time groundskeeper, the area will allow passengers to enjoy games of bocce ball, croquet and golf putting. Guests will also be able to just stroll around with the grass beneath their feet as well as enjoy picnics.<br /><br />The Lawn Club will be one part of the top deck of the Solstice ships which also will include the Hot Glass Show presented by the Corning Museum of Glass (glass blowing, very exciting) and the Sunset Bar perched upon the highest point on the aft of the ship.<br /><br />Rumors had been that a real grass Central Park type area was going to be one of the features of Royal Caribbean\'s Genesis ships. It may still be but it seems they chose to let their sister brand, Celebrity, have the buzz on this one.<br /><br />Here is the press release from Celebrity\'s web site.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>\"Turf’s Up!\" The Grass Really is Greener on Celebrity Solstice </strong><br /><br />Miami - (January 19, 2008 ) - There is a new job opening at Celebrity Cruises: groundskeeper. The perfect candidate must be willing to perform his or her duties while traveling the world aboard a beautifully appointed ocean liner. The successful candidate also must be a dedicated horticulturist who possesses an unmistakable enthusiasm for the unexpected, as the greens will be miles out at sea.<br /><br />When Celebrity Solstice launches in December, vacationers will find that the grass really is greener on a Celebrity Cruises vacation. The ship will present an industry first on the top deck of the ship: real, growing grass, set in an innovative new country club environment known as \"The Lawn Club.\"<br /><br />The half-acre Lawn Club on Celebrity Solstice will invite guests to enjoy bocce ball and croquet, practice their putting, picnic with a basket of wine and cheese, or simply feel the grass between their toes, while sailing the oceans of the world. The area also will feature the Hot Glass Show, another first in the industry, developed in collaboration with The Corning Museum of Glass; the Patio on the Lawn; the Lawn Club Shop, and the Sunset Bar.<br /><br />\"We want our guests to experience the unexpected, like the thrill of sinking a putt on a freshly manicured lawn in the middle of the ocean,\" said Dan Hanrahan, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. \"The experiences on and around the lawn exemplify what we aim to achieve: to recognize, celebrate and indulge our guests in style.\"<br /><br />\"Everything about the Celebrity Cruises brand is authentic,\" said Richard D. Fain, Chairman of Celebrity Cruises. \"Our vision for a completely genuine experience demanded nothing less than real grass, and we sought out the right innovation to make that vision a reality.\"<br /><br />Achieving that reality was no easy task. Celebrity worked with design firm Wilson Butler Architects to design the entire club area, then engaged a team of landscape architects and irrigation specialists along with turf and soil scientists at the University of Florida. Together, they conducted extensive research and tested a variety of grasses to determine which can withstand the winds, sun, shade and temperature variations that will affect the grass and soil as the ship sails in the Caribbean this winter. Other considerations included the ability of the grass to tolerate foot traffic, irrigation and day-to-day care and maintenance of the grass. Even the weight of the grass and soil had to be considered, as well as the water they absorb from the atmosphere and from irrigation.<br /><br />Metric Facts about The Lawn Club on Celebrity Solstice<br />• At 2,130 square meters (22,927 square feet), The Lawn Club is just over a half-acre in size.<br /><br />The Lawn Club is:<br />• Over three times larger than New York’s Rockefeller Center ice skating rink (668 sq. meters)<br />• 1.7 times larger than an Olympic-size swimming pool, which is 1,250 sq. meters<br />• The equivalent of 8.2 tennis courts (these are 260 sq. meters each)<br />• 2.4 times the size of Centre Court at England’s Wimbledon Lawn &amp; Tennis Club, which is 902 sq. meters<br />• One-third the size of a regulation soccer field, which is 6,500 sq. meters<br /><br />The Lawn Club is the central element of the top-deck experiences on Celebrity Solstice. The Patio on the Lawn offers elegant yet relaxed sitting areas where luxury meets casual country club charm. Guests can read the morning paper, lose themselves in a good novel, or enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee with friends, courtesy of the patio’s coffee cart service.<br /><br />The Hot Glass Show, presented in collaboration with The Corning Museum of Glass, is the patio’s main feature. In its own, dedicated glassblowing studio, the Hot Glass Show will present the history and craft of glassblowing, from its ancient origins to its current countless uses. Three resident \"gaffers\" – highly skilled glassblowing artists – will educate and entertain cruisers with live glassmaking shows, lectures and workshops.<br /><br />The area also features the Sunset Bar – the ideal sailaway setting on any ship, enhanced on Celebrity Solstice by the natural grass in The Lawn Club. Located at Celebrity Solstice\'s highest point aft, the Sunset Bar provides breathtaking views in a relaxed atmosphere. \"We\'re confident our guests will be thrilled with The Lawn Club and the many new entertainment and sports options it offers,\" Hanrahan said.<br /><br />Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and Australia through its cruisetour affiliate. Noted for \"The World\'s Best Large Ships,\" as voted by the readers of Conde\' Nast Traveler (February 2007 Cruise Poll), Celebrity\'s current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit Celebrity Cruises website. And for more information about Celebrity Solstice, visit Celebrity Solstice </em>website. </span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'celebrity_s_solstice_to_feature','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/celebrity-cruises-solstice-to-feature.html',172,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'73fa720f5d8008d369abc14ca2ca33cc','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(477,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Three Queens gather in NYC',NULL,'2008-01-16 08:55:00','No it\'s not what you think. Cunard\'s Queen Elizabeth 2, Queen Mary 2, and new Queen Victoria made history on Sunday January 13 when all three departed from NYC and rendezvoused in the harbor near the Statue of Liberty for a quick celebration that included fireworks. This marks the first time in the company\'s history that three Queens have met and departed from the same port at the same time. It may also be the last time, for the immediate future at least, as the QE2 is being retired after a 40 year career. A new Queen Elizabeth is slated to be delivered in 2010.<br /><br />The event took place between 8:30 and 9:00 PM and even though it was rather cold as well as rainy, the celebration and fireworks went ahead as scheduled. The weather did seem to keep all but the hard core fans of the ships from coming out to see. I know if it had been on a different night at a warmer time of year, I would have been out there just to get a look and a few pictures since some good vantage points are only about 5 minutes away for me. But, alas, I\'m not a big Cunard fan and I just couldn\'t make it. I looked for some photos but the few I found online were very dark and not worth linking to. Sorry.<br /><br />Call me when Royal Caribbean has a rendezvous of Voyager of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Genesis. I\'ll try my best not to miss that one.','2008-05-02 19:31:14',1,0,-1,'three_queens_gather_in_nyc','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/three-queens-gather-in-nyc.html',173,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'7a16442dcf3d0f61ff70a4b7e6fadbb1','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(478,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Voyager of the Seas arrives in Texas',NULL,'2008-01-16 08:36:00','<a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/rcihornsnews.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/images/rcihornsnews.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br />On Jan. 14 Voyager of the Seas arrived in Galveston for its inaugural winter season on the Gulf Coast. Voyager becomes the largest ship to be based on the Gulf Coast and will sail 7 night cruises to the Caribbean, South America and Mexico through April.<br /><br />The ship arrived to fanfare as local media, travel agents, and politicians gathered at the port. As part of the ceremony the ship sported a set of longhorns which were 140 feet long and over 600 pounds.<br /><br />The port itself will undergo a $3.3 million upgrade to handle the increased traffic resulting from the massive ship.<br /><br />From Royal Caribbean\'s website:<br /><br /><strong><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Voyager Of The Seas Arrives In Galveston For It\'s First Winter Season in Texas </em></span></strong><br /><strong><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Royal Caribbean Introduces Gulf Coast\'s Largest and Most Innovative Cruise Ship</em></span></strong><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong></strong><br />MIAMI, January 14, 2008 - Everything is bigger in Texas and the next biggest thing in the Lone Star State is Royal Caribbean International\'s Voyager of the Seas. The largest cruise ship ever to be based in the Gulf Coast and to sail from the Port of Galveston, Voyager will sail seven-night itineraries visiting the Caribbean, South America and Mexico calling on Cozumel, Costa Maya and Yucatan, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman through April 2008.<br /><br />\"Voyager\'s arrival also marks the first time a Voyager-class ship has been deployed in Texas,\" said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. \"We are excited to offer more Texans the opportunity to experience our signature style of cruising right from their backyard.\"<br /><br />At a ceremony held onboard Voyager of the Seas yesterday, special guests, including local dignitaries, travel agents and media gathered to celebrate the arrival of the ship which was adorned with gigantic longhorns, 140 feet long and weighing 600 pounds. Following the ceremony, Royal Caribbean kicked off a week-long charity auction on eBay (www.ebay.com/longhorns) with proceeds benefiting the Starlight Starbright Children\'s Foundation (www.starlight.org), which helps seriously ill children and their families cope with their pain, fear and isolation through entertainment, education and family activities. The highest bidder will win the longhorns and a seven-night cruise for two.<br /><br />\"In 2006, we welcomed 617,000 cruise travelers, making Galveston the Gulf Coast\'s most popular cruise port. With the arrival of Voyager of the Seas, the port will undergo a $3.3 million upgrade to accommodate a 50 percent increase in Royal Caribbean guests,\" said Steven M. Cernak, port director, Port of Galveston. \"Hosting the most innovative ship in the Gulf will have a significant economic impact, adding to the success of 2006 when we saw $1.1 billion in direct spending, resulting in 19,341 jobs created and $907 million generated in new income in the state of Texas as a result of the cruise industry.\"*<br /><br /><br />When she debuted in 1999, Voyager of the Seas introduced cruise-industry innovations such as an ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall and the 308-feet-long Royal Promenade, a shopping, dining and entertainment boulevard. Offering a vacation experience that can be tailored to suit all energy levels, Voyager also features a basketball court, miniature golf course, interactive golf simulator, three swimming pools, six whirlpools, the full-service Voyager Day Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center.<br /><br />In the evenings, guests can enjoy a myriad of activities from top-rated Broadway-style productions in the theatre to gaming in the Casino Royale and a variety of dining and entertainment experiences in 16 bars and lounges and seven restaurants, including a 1950s-style Johnny Rockets Diner and Royal Caribbean\'s signature specialty restaurant, Portofino Italian Ristorante.<br /><br />For the younger set, Voyager of the Seas also offers the line\'s award-winning Adventure Ocean children\'s program. Teens have dedicated onboard areas such as the Optix teen disco giving them their own space to meet, build friendships and relax with their peers. They, along with other cruisers will experience the line\'s hallmark Gold Anchor Service, which helps make each guest vacation a unique and unforgettable experience with friendly and engaging service from the staff and crew.<br /><br />Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. </em></span>',NULL,0,0,-1,'voyager_of_the_seas_arrives','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/voyager-of-tyhe-seas-arrives-in-texas.html',174,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'7186072f4316e1da07ff9dda20feb92b','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(479,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','NCL Gets $1 billion Investment',NULL,'2008-01-08 08:53:00','NCL announced that they have closed a $1 billion cash investment from a private equity group, Apollo Management, LP. As a result, Apollo is now 50% owner of NCL along with the previous sole shareholder, Star Cruise and Apollo will have the right to name a majority of the NCL board of directors.<br /><br />What all this means is that NCL is now in a better position to continue their expansion and growth as well as improving current services. This should help NCL make up ground from their distant third place in relation to the two \"big dogs\" in the industry, Carnival and Royal Caribbean.<br /><br />Here is the press release from NCL\'s website.<br /><br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>NCL Closes $1 Billion Investment by Apollo </strong></em></span><br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Investment will drive further expansion of brand and Freestyle Cruising concept<br /></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Miami - Jan 7, 2008 ---</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>NCL Corporation (\"NCL\"), parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line and NCL America, announced today the closing of a $1 billion cash equity investment by private equity group Apollo Management, LP (\"Apollo\") in NCL.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>The infusion strengthens NCL\'s balance sheet and will enable the company to make significant investments in a number of key areas, in addition to funding continued expansion of what is already the youngest fleet in the industry. The company recently announced it will take its signature Freestyle Cruising to the next level with the introduction of Freestyle 2.0, a major enhancement to its on-board product fleet wide, that will further improve the guest experience, including an increased investment in food of $50 million over the next two years, and an upgrading of stateroom bedding and amenities across the fleet. The company also announced a new travel agent program, Partnership 2.0, which includes major changes to the way NCL does business and is designed to strengthen its relationships with travel partners. Both programs will be implemented within the first half of this year, and are part of the preparation for NCL\'s next large step forward, the introduction of the \"F3\" concept ships in 2010, under construction now in France at a cost of over $1.1 billion per ship. Concurrent with the new investment, the company has bolstered its senior management team with the addition of two key executives, one to the position of EVP and CFO and the other who will spearhead a new strategic planning and business development initiative. NCL is also building on its successful brand identity campaign with increased investment in consumer marketing, including the launch of a series of six new television commercials that will air nationwide beginning today.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>\"With the Apollo investment, NCL is now in the strongest financial condition we have ever enjoyed in our 41-year history,\" said NCL Corporation\'s President and CEO Colin Veitch. \"With both Star Cruises and Apollo as dedicated and supportive shareholders, and with a fleet that has just become the youngest in the industry, we will take our vision of innovation to new and exciting levels.\"</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Steve Martinez, partner at Apollo Management, noted, \"NCL has the youngest, most distinctive fleet in the industry, along with its innovative Freestyle Cruising that delivers an experience that is vastly different from the traditional cruise product. Given this and the upcoming introduction of its F3 concept ships, we see NCL as having sizeable growth potential. We are pleased to solidify this partnership with Star Cruises and the existing management team of NCL, so that we can work together to propel this company forward.\"</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>As of closing, Apollo, through its affiliates NCL Investment Ltd. and NCL Investment II Ltd., has become a 50 percent owner of NCL. Star Cruises (\"Star\"), NCL\'s previous sole shareholder, has retained all of its existing shares in NCL and, like Apollo, is a 50 percent owner. Apollo will name a majority of the NCL board of directors with certain consent rights retained by Star.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>\"We welcome Apollo as we embark on the next phase of growth in NCL\'s history,\" said Star Cruises Chairman and CEO Tan Sri KT Lim. \"We are extremely proud of what we have achieved to date with NCL, but we are even more optimistic about what the future holds for the company now that Apollo has joined us. NCL is well positioned for continued success in 2008 and beyond.\"</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>The completion of the investment constitutes a change of control under NCL\'s outstanding 10 5/8% senior notes due 2014 (the \"Notes\"). NCL will make a change of control offer within 30 days of the closing at 101%, together with accrued but unpaid interest up to but not including the date of repurchase, for the Notes as required under the indenture governing the Notes.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>About NCL Corporation</strong></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America and Orient Lines.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (\"F3\") ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>For high resolution, downloadable images, please log onto NCL\'s Web site at </em></span><a href=\"http://www.ncl.com/pressroom\"><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>www.ncl.com/pressroom</em></span></a><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>. For further information on NCL Corporation, contact NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (866) 234-0292.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>About Star Cruises</strong></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Star Cruises, the third largest cruise operator in the world is a global cruise brand with a combined fleet of 21 ships with about 33,300 lower berths in service with an additional 2 ships and some 8,400 lower berths due to be delivered by 2010, cruising to destinations and islands in Asia-Pacific, North and South America, Hawaii, Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mediterranean, Bermuda and the Antarctica under the Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America, Orient Lines and Cruise Ferries brands.<br /></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Star Cruises is represented in more than 25 locations worldwide. Headquartered in Hong Kong, offices and representatives have been set up in China, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Philippines, India, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Australia, Sweden, Germany, and UK.</em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong>About Apollo Management</strong></em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em>Founded in 1990, Apollo is a leading private equity and capital markets investor with more than 17 years of experience investing across the capital structure of leveraged companies. The firm employs over 140 professionals and has offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Singapore, Frankfurt and Paris. Since its inception, Apollo has managed more than $28 billion of capital across a wide variety of industries both domestically and internationally. The firm\'s most recent private equity fund and its co-investment affiliate have capital commitments of approximately $11.6 billion. Investments in the leisure and hospitality industries have included Harrah\'s Entertainment (pending), AMC Entertainment, Sirius Satellite Radio, Wyndham International, and Vail Resorts. Apollo is already active in the cruise industry, having invested in the upper premium Oceania Cruises brand earlier this year. Since investing in Oceania, Apollo has supported the ordering of two new ships worth approximately $1 billion. Apollo also recently announced the purchase of luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas Cruises.</em></span>','2009-03-13 21:29:22',13,0,-1,'ncl_gets_1_billion_investment','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/01/ncl-gets-1-billion-investment.html',175,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'7e299afff8fef07b341af6024ab4df06','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(480,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Independence of the Seas ahead of schedule.',NULL,'2007-12-17 11:01:00','Royal Caribbean has announced that the next \"Freedom Class\" ship, Independence of the Seas, will commence sailing two weeks earlier than originally scheduled. The ship was orginally scheduled to have it\'s maiden voyage on May 17, but the shipyard informed Royal Caribbean that they will be completing the ship ahead of schedule.  Good news for RCI but not so good, I imagine, for those booked on the May 17th cruise hoping to be on the maiden voyage.  <br /><br />The new maiden voyage will be on May 2nd and those booked on the original date are being offered the chance to switch dates.  Then, on May 6th, there will be an 11 night cruise to the Canary Islands.<br /><br />That will conclude the current plan for the \"Freedom Class\" but I have heard rumors that there may be another in the series.  Now the focus turns to the \"Genesis\" twins already under construction.','2008-05-02 19:35:56',1,0,-1,'independence_of_the_seas_ahead','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/12/independence-of-seas-ahead-of-schedule.html',176,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'5c8a760742ce9230627a05928d76abeb','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(481,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Genesis keel laid in Finland',NULL,'2007-12-17 10:17:00','Royal Caribbean execs and some select travel agents were invited to witness the ceremonial laying of the first parts of the structural backbone of what will be, by far, the largest, most expensive and most advanced cruise ships ever built, Royal Caribbean\'s 220,000 ton \"Genesis\" ships. They gathered in Turku to watch the 540 ton hull section lowered into place. According to tradition Royal Caribbean and shipyard execs affixed coins underneath the section as a good luck gesture.<br /><br />The next big step in the construction will be about a year from now when the finished hull is floated once the drydock is filled. Between now and then there should be more and more info released regarding the ships including their official names. Royal Caribbean has confirmed that neither of the ships will be named Genesis of the Seas. Naming will probably take place around May 2008 and itineraries will also surface sometime next year.',NULL,0,0,-1,'genesis_keel_laid_in_finland','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/12/genesis-keel-laid-in-finland.html',177,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'672682412ff889ed055c60448be3e5fd','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(482,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean\'s Genesis To Home Port in Ft. Lauderdale',NULL,'2007-12-11 09:18:00','Royal Caribbean announced that they are planning to home port their upcoming 220,000 ton Genesis ships in Port Everglades, FL.  The press release that both of the planned ships will home port there with the first starting in 2009.<br /><br />Here is the press release from royalcaribbean.com:<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><strong><u><em>Royal Caribbean\'s Plans To Homeport Genesis At Port Everglades To Spark Incredible Growth In Greater Fort Lauderdale</em></u></strong> </span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">FORT LAUDERDALE, December 4, 2007 - Broward County\'s Port Everglades will see significant economic and tourism growth with confirmation today that Royal Caribbean International, a cruise brand owned and operated by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL), will be homeporting its two new 5,400-passenger \"Project Genesis\" vessels in Greater Fort Lauderdale. The agreement between Royal Caribbean and Broward County is expected to be finalized by the cruise line company\'s Board of Directors and the Broward County Commission on or before December 19, 2007. </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">Royal Caribbean\'s Project Genesis ships will be the largest cruise ships ever constructed. The first of the 220,000-gross-registered-ton ships is scheduled to begin sailing year-round from Port Everglades in late 2009, with the second sister ship to begin year-round sailings one year later. Each Project Genesis ship, being constructed at Aker Yards in Turku, Finland, is projected to generate approximately 584,000 in passenger traffic annually at Port Everglades. </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"We look forward to growing our outstanding relationship with Port Everglades,\" said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. \"It\'s very exciting to see our plans come together for these two amazing ships. The bold designs, daring innovations and technological advancements planned for these ships will thrill our loyal guests and help generate new devotees to our brand.\" </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">As part of the agreement, Royal Caribbean will reimburse up to $37.4 million in capital expenditures for expansion and related infrastructure needs of Terminal 18, which is already one of the largest cruise passenger terminals worldwide. Along with sister brands Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises, Royal Caribbean International will generate approximately 17 million in passenger volume (embarking and disembarking) at Port Everglades during the first 10-year term of the contract. </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">\"Royal Caribbean has achieved great success with its year-round sailing schedule at Port Everglades,\" said Port Everglades Director Phillip C. Allen. \"Now we can expect an average of 3.6 times more Royal Caribbean passengers, which is phenomenal.\" </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">An economic impact study conducted by Martin and Associates as part of the Port Everglades Master/Vision Plan, projects that homeporting the Genesis ships at Port Everglades will create more than 3,844 jobs, generate $172 million in personal income and $15.9 million state and local taxes. In addition, the analysis anticipates that more than 858 new construction jobs will be created during Terminal 18 expansion. </span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">ABOUT BROWARD COUNTY\'S PORT EVERGLADESAt 40 ships, more cruise ships are homeported at Port Everglades than any other port worldwide with an array of cruise vacation choices from the sunny Greater Fort Lauderdale area including everything from sampler-size day cruises to around-the-world cruises. Details on the latest cruise offerings are available on the Internet at </span></em><a href=\"http://www.broward.org/port\"><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">www.broward.org/port</span></em></a><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">.</span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\"></span></em><br /><em><span\"font-size:85%;\">ABOUT ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONALRoyal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. </span></em>','2008-05-10 22:15:24',3,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_s_genesis_to','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/12/royal-caribbeans-genesis-to-home-port.html',178,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,'14fcfb5b6255dd1d109977395f6a3862','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(483,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Feeling Nostalgic',NULL,'2007-12-05 13:30:00','<a href=\"http://www.ssmaritime.com/oceanic.JPG\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.ssmaritime.com/oceanic.JPG\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br />I decided to add a list of my cruises on my blog and in doing so I started thinking back to the earlier cruises I took as a child with my family. Cruising has changed so much in those 20 years, but that is where my love of cruising started.<br /><br />My first cruise was back in 1986 and I was in my early teens. I was lucky enough to have parents who worked hard for what we had and my sister and I were able to do a decent amount of travel around the country. Mostly trips to places like California, Arizona, and of course Florida (Disney). My grandparents had been on a cruise in 1970 when they won a raffle for tickets on a Bahamas cruise on board the SS Oceanic. They always looked back on it as a really great experience and something they would like to do again. My parents decided that it would be a good idea to take a family cruise and we planned it on the very same ship, the Oceanic.<br /><br />Along with my parents, myself and my sister, both sets of grandparents as well as my aunt joined us on the trip. It was really a great time. I still remember when I first saw the ship I was struck by the sheer size and how beautiful it was. We were leaving from Manhattan, and the ships dock bow in which basically puts the bow at the street where you drop off. I got out of the car and looked up at the bow towering over us and something came over me. I actually had a tear come to my eye. I\'m secure enough in my manhood to write that here even though it does sound just a bit femme. The ship was just that amazing to me.<br /><br />The Oceanic was and still is a beautiful classic ship. She was designed as an ocean liner but spent her life as a cruiser. Her classic profile was sleek with a long bow and low slender superstructure sporting a single stack. She was also fairly large for her day coming in at 774ft in length and weighing 39,241 tons. The cruise experience back then was much different than today. Cruising was still very much for an older crowd and perceived as a boring vacation. It had not yet become the mainstream vacation it is today. The ships were not the destination like many are today. The ship, while very nice, did not have the amenities of today\'s ships. On sea days there was pretty much nothing to do but head to the pool or play shuffleboard. About the most exciting thing I remember from sea days was the, now forbidden, skeet shooting off the aft of the ship. That was cool.<br /><br /><a href=\"http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/HomeLinesPCs/Oceanic05NY.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://www.simplonpc.co.uk/HomeLinesPCs/Oceanic05NY.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><br />The real important thing back then was the food and service. Being that Home Lines was part Italian owned and fully staffed by Italians, the food was unbelievable. I still remember lunchtime by the pool where they had a pasta station set up where the chefs were preparing fresh pasta dishes and the smell of roasted garlic wafted all around. Really great stuff.<br /><br />We did two more cruises on Home Lines on their new ship, the Homeric which was much more modern than the Oceanic and we had a great time on those as well. Sadly, in 1988, Home Lines folded and sold their ships. We were shocked and lost. There were no other lines leaving from NYC that we really wanted to go on beside Home Lines. Luckily a couple of years later, Celebrity Cruises was launched as an offshoot of the Chandris Line. Chandris sent their Galileo in for a complete refit and she emerged as the Meridian. We took a trip on the Meridian in 1990. Again, she was an older ship but quite nice. We followed up with another cruise on Celebrity\'s new Horizon in 1993. These were the last cruises I took with my family before starting a family of my own and introducing them to my love of cruising.<br /><br />In all the cruises I\'ve been on, I can honestly say that they have all been great. That first one on the Oceanic though is the one that started it all. It stands out in my memory most among the early cruises I took. Not only did I become addicted to cruising but I also became infatuated with the ocean. I really love the isolation of being out there with noting but water around. I loved it so much that at one time I thought about making a career out of it either by joining the Navy or going to a merchant marine academy and finding a job ultimately on a cruise ship. Neither of those teenage dreams came to be though.<br /><br />Amazingly, the Oceanic has survived almost 45 years of sailing and she doesn\'t seem to be slowing down. She was sold by Home Lines to Premier Cruises in 1986 and renamed Star Ship Oceanic. She later came to be known the Big Red Boat with Premier until they folded in 2000 and she was sold to Pullmantur in 2001 who renamed her back to Oceanic. Presently she is still cruising in Europe. Pullmantur, of course is now part of my current favorite cruise line Royal Caribbean.<br /><br />Part of me would love to take another trip on the Oceanic, but I think I would be a bit disappointed. Memories sometime are better left as such. I have been spoiled by the modern mega ships and everything they have to offer. Taking a trip today on the Oceanic would probably be like taking a trip back in time. I thing I\'ll just hold onto my fond memories of that great ship.','2008-09-10 18:31:08',4,0,-1,'feeling_nostalgic','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/12/feeling-nostalgic.html',179,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'162b424958308d65f88727f31292a5d2','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(484,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Info And Rumors About RCI\'s Genesis Project',NULL,'2007-11-27 09:00:00','I just read a good editorial article on Travelpage.com about RCI\'s \"Genesis\" ship and their history of building bigger more innovative ships. It\'s got some good info about the rumors and facts surrounding the upcoming ship. I thought I\'d share it. I especially like the concept of balcony cabins overlooking the rumored \"Central Park\" area. One thing I\'ve always thought would have been cool would be balconies on the Promenade cabins on the Voyager and Freedom class ships. I think that would have given the Promenade a nice Mardi Gras type of feel especially on nights with a parade.<br /><br />The original article can be found <a href=\"http://www.cruiseserver.net/travelpage/news/c_news.asp\">here</a>.<br /><br />Here it is:<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><strong><u>Let There be Light</u></strong> </em></span><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><em><br />Although our CruiseTalk online forum contains much factual information, we are not above participating in wild speculation and unfounded rumour on occasion. Most recently we have had a number of very enthusiastic discussions focusing on Royal Caribbean International\'s new build project code named \'Genesis\'.<br /><br />It is not surprising that this ship has generated so much excitement given that Royal Caribbean International (RCI) has been at the cutting edge of ship design for nearly four decades. Not only have they repeatedly brought us innovative ships, they have repeatedly brought us the worlds biggest cruise ships.<br /><br />RCI were the first to bring us many nautical innovations, such the circular \'Viking Crown Lounge\' mounted on the funnel of \'Song of Norway\' (1970). The lounge is said to have based on the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington. The \"lounge on the funnel\" quickly became the RCI hallmark.<br /><br />In 1988 \'Sovereign of the seas\' (73,000gt approx) became the world\'s largest cruise ship and offered passengers a unique multi-decked \'Centrum\'. In 1999 \'Voyager\' of the Seas\' (137,000gt approx) broke through all the boundaries. She was truly one of the first \'floating resorts\', complete with a rock climbing wall, an ice-rink and the \'Royal Promenade\' (a street running along the centre of the ship). In 2006, \'Freedom of the Seas\' (154, 000gt approx) once again became the world\'s largest cruise ship and introduced the cruising public to the flow -rider (surf simulator), cantilevered whirlpools and on board Water Park.<br /><br />While much of the \'Genesis\' project is still cloaked in secrecy, here are some of the available facts: The construction of \'Genesis\' has already started at the Aker yards in Oslo, Norway and the ship will be delivered in the autumn of 2009. She will be the worlds biggest cruise ship by far at 220,000gt, and at a $1.24 billion, she will also be the worlds most expensive. She will hold up to 6,400 passengers.<br /><br />Now let\'s just pause for a moment and contemplate this: Genesis will be more than twice as large (in terns of gross tonnage/internal volume) as many other \'big\' cruise ships which are often in the 90,000gt range. She will accommodate more guests than many hotels and her theatre must surely be bigger than many on Broadway. Her dining rooms will accommodate more people than almost any land based restaurants. You will not need a deck plan to get around this leviathan; you will need a \'Satellite-Navigation\' unit.<br /><br />I\'m sure that a degree of Testosterone must fuel the creation of such a large ship, with RCI\'s CEO Richard Fain, effectively saying to Carnival\'s CEO, Micky Arison \"Mine is bigger than yours\". However a growing global appetite for cruising combined with the economies of scale that big ships bring, make such an expensive project a sound investment<br /><br />RCI have announced that we can expect many innovative features on Genesis, but most of the details about what to expect are still under wraps. We have seen an official artist rendition of \'Genesis\' but it does not really give too much away. In fact it does not look so much different in profile from existing RCI vessels. Some of the features we expect to see include: a \'Studio B\' type ice-rink and \'Royal Promenade\' similar to those found on board the \'Voyager\' and \'Freedom\' class vessels.<br /><br />Some of the other features that are not much more than rumour and speculation include: a glass roof above the \'Royal Promenade\' that might even be retractable so that it can be opened to the sky on sunny days? If true, this would overcome the main weakness of all the previous \'Royal Promenades\' which do not have any natural light and hence any connection with the sea. I can\'t resist a Biblical reference: \"Let there be Light\".<br /><br />It has been said that \'Genesis\' will have a \'board-walk\' (possibly aft and open air) and something called \'Central Park\' which may be located above the royal Promenade? I assume that the latter will not actually be 843 acres of real grass, lakes and trees, but who knows? Maybe some Astroturf is more likely? It has been suggested that \'Central park\' may well be open to the air or at least have a glass roof? There has also been talk of many new cabin designs, including balcony cabins overlooking \'Central park\'. I\'m particularly interested in the dining arrangements on board Genesis. RCI\'s existing fleet all have a very traditional dining system. They always have one large main dining room that certainly provides a \'wow\' factor, where passengers dine during two sittings. In addition there is buffet dining and some smaller alternative venues.<br /><br />In complete contrast the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has their \'Freestyle\' system, with their new builds each having at least a dozen dining rooms. This allows passenger to dine when they like (within core hours) and sit with who they like. Although \'Freestyle\' is not without it problems (high demand at peak times) it does make the RCI system look limited and old fashioned, on paper anyway.<br /><br />Personally I love RCI\'s breathtakingly impressive big dining rooms, which can be up to three decks high. They are some of the most attractive afloat. However I wonder if just one main dining room is still practical on a ship as big as Genesis, with her 6,400 passengers? Even Princess\'s \'Grand\' class, have three main dining rooms, with passengers being permanently assigned to one. Maybe Genesis will be the first RCI design to have multiple dining rooms? Maybe not?<br /><br />Whatever the finer details turn out to be, RCI are once again pushing the envelope with the \'Genesis\' project. Granted it has not even been built yet, but it is already a very exciting ship and will almost certainly be a market leader. Carnival Corporation may well lead the way in terms of profit and brand coverage, but RCI win in terms of amazing state-of-the-art vessels. I can hardly wait to see as the various design elements and facilities are revealed.<br /><br />Malcolm Oliver </em></span>','2008-05-02 19:21:48',1,0,-1,'info_and_rumors_about_rci','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/11/info-and-rumors-about-rcis-genesis.html',180,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'d5246e99027d002a78e198f53ccab2c6','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(485,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean and NCL Add Fuel Surcharge',NULL,'2007-11-19 09:30:00','Well, so much for Royal Caribbean being the only line to not have added a fuel surcharge in response to the rising fuel costs in recent years as stated in my last post. It will be a charge of $5 per person, per day for sailings on or after February 1, 2008.<br /><br />NCL has also decided to add a surcharge of $7 per person, per day for the first and second passengers in a cabin and $3 per person, per day for any additional passengers in the cabin. Their charge will apply to bookings made on or after December 1, 2007.','2008-05-29 14:07:30',3,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_and_ncl_add','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2007/11/royal-caribbean-adds-fuel-surcharge.html',181,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'d33ee305735ebf4a8115cc5818856d3e','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(488,4,NULL,'vivvo@localhost','Working Texas Writer','Alaskan Safari',NULL,'2008-05-03 17:56:00','<a href=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/SBzfz43JIDI/AAAAAAAAAGA/GNRpRvkGOJY/s1600-h/Eagle+in+Alaska.jpg\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"http://bp2.blogger.com/_RWgcnzGMDI8/SBzfz43JIDI/AAAAAAAAAGA/GNRpRvkGOJY/s200/Eagle+in+Alaska.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></a><br /><div>Summer is here and that\'s Alaska season! Not only do most lines offer great Alaskan packages, competition is such that you can still nab some good deals.</div><div> </div><div>Probably the best cruise for an Alaskan newbie (or veteran) is the so-called Inside Passage. This is a bit of a misnomer, since you\'re not cruising through the heart of Alaskan territory. Alaska has been graced with a protected expanse of coastline. That\'s the Inside Passage. Traveling is smoother and safer there. Naturally, it\'s where the early settlers set up shop, too, so there is plenty to see in terms of both wildlife and Alaskan town life.</div><div> </div><div>Juneau, for example, is an amazing city. It\'s the only U.S. capital city that cannot be accessed by car. (You can drive there, you just can\'t drive <strong><em>to </em></strong>there.) You must arrive by ship or plane or foot (I suppose dog sled would work, too). Glaciers are there, but so is a rainforest. That\'s right, the Alaskan rainforest is real and you can access it from Juneau.</div><div> </div><div>Great Alaskan excursions include classics like whale watching, bear watching, dog sledding, glacier exploration, and \"flight-seeing\" (touring by plane). New on the roster at Norwegian Cruise Lines are private Hummer tours (you get a chauffeur-driven Hummer) and Floatplane tours in Ketchikan.</div><div> </div><div>A couple of cruise lines are offering Bering Sea Crab Fisherman\'s tours although you don\'t go to the Bering Sea. You do get to explore a crab boat vessel and meet veteran crab fishermen who share their adventures. If you\'ve ever seen the Discovery channel\'s <em>Deadliest Catch,</em> you\'ll know there is a cult-like following for this.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>','2008-10-31 21:23:36',15,0,-1,'alaskan_safari','http://cruiselinenews.blogspot.com/2008/05/alaskan-safari.html',184,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'be500269cecd6591f009f608e42bc108','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(742,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Line International Association','DRIVING TO THE SHIP ADDS VALUE, CONVENIENCE TO CRUISE VACATIONS','123_898172987.jpg','2008-08-02 12:42:00','<p>For the member companies of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), cruising is all about choice, flexibility and value. While spectacular new ships tend to grab the headlines and symbolize the remarkable growth and diversity of the industry, a quieter and very timely trend is the growth of domestic ports of embarkation to more than 30, from Anchorage to St. Augustine, Boston to New Orleans. In fact, virtually the entire population of the United States is within driving distance of a cruise.<br />&nbsp;<br />This not only adds significantly to the convenience factor of a cruise vacation &ndash; driving to the ship and leaving the car a short walking distance away &ndash; but can also represent significant savings during times of economic uncertainty, even allowing for the high price of gasoline.<br />&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;No other type of vacation offers the variety of experiences &ndash; worldwide destinations, diverse itineraries, varying cruise lengths, types of ships, different onboard experiences, and shore side activities &ndash; that the CLIA fleet provides,&rdquo; said Terry Dale, president and CEO of CLIA. &ldquo;The aim is to enable every vacationer to choose the cruise that is exactly right for individual tastes, interests and budget. A big part of that for millions of travelers is having a departure port close to home.&rdquo;<br />&nbsp;<br />When the modern cruise industry began in the 1960&rsquo;s, the vast majority of voyages departed from a handful of big city ports, notably New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Today, cruisers can choose an itinerary from such East Coast embarkation points as Bangor, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Norfolk, Charleston, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Passengers embarking in the New York metropolitan area have three ports to choose from: Manhattan, Brooklyn and across the Hudson River in New Jersey. On the West Coast the choices include four ports in Alaska, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. On the Gulf Coast, cruisers can opt for such cities as Galveston, New Orleans, Mobile and Tampa.<br />&nbsp;<br />Equally significant, the cruises offered from these domestic ports represent the entire spectrum of the cruise experience: Large ships and small; the newest vessels; itineraries in Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, the Bahamas and the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, even transatlantic and world cruises and adventure voyages. In short, consumers can find a convenient domestic port of embarkation for virtually any kind of cruise they want.<br />&nbsp;<br />Among the some of the most popular are America&rsquo;s coastal and river cruises. While some of the largest CLIA member ships offer cruises along the New England coast to Canada and along the coast of Alaska, most coastal and river voyages are made with small ships that can venture well inland to places inaccessible to other vessels. Vacationers can find these cruises leaving from ports throughout the country, including virtually the entire length of the Mississippi River, on rivers along the Pacific Northwest Coast, the Intra-Coastal Waterway on the East Coast and the rivers and coastlines of New England and maritime Canada. For American vacationers the result is the opportunity to cruise the tropical islands of the Caribbean, transit the Panama Canal or explore Mark Twain&rsquo;s mighty Mississippi, all from a port of embarkation only a convenient and comfortable drive away.</p>','2013-01-19 23:55:11',266,1,1,NULL,NULL,435,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'CLIA Cruise Lines Sail to All Parts of the World from More than 30 Ports in U.S. ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(506,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Kurt Farrugia, MaltaStar.com','Crashing entrance in the Grand Harbour for Cunard&#039;s &#039;Queen Victoria&#039;','20080514QV7_Use_612992339.jpg','2008-05-10 22:31:00','<p align=\"center\"><font size=\"2\"></font></p><div><font size=\"2\"><strong>The cruise ship Queen Victoria, on its maiden call in Malta, was&nbsp;in the&nbsp;centre of&nbsp;attraction for all the&nbsp;wrong reasons&nbsp;when it entered the Grand Harbour&nbsp;on Wednesday morning. The luxury cruise ship in fact&nbsp;hit the quay of the Valletta Waterfront, denting the stern of the ship in one of the most bizarre incidents&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Grand Harbour.</strong></font></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><strong><font size=\"2\"></font></strong></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\">The unofficial reason for the incident is that the throttles of the 90,000 tonnes luxury liner got stuck. In a statement later in the evening the Malta Maritime Authority officially attributed the incident to a mechanical failure in the ship.&nbsp; </font><font size=\"2\">Although the captain of the Queen Victoria is Paul Wright, <strong>maltastar.com</strong> is informed that the vessel was then being piloted by a Maltese captain since port regulations stipulate that&nbsp;ships&nbsp;exceeding&nbsp;500 gross tonnage are to be piloted&nbsp;by a Maltese pilot&nbsp;provided by local Port Authorities. </font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\">Full investigations into the incident were launched immediately by the Malta Maritime Authority and a magisterial inquiry is also underway. </font></div><p align=\"center\"><img src=\"http://www.maltastar.com/UserFiles/20080514QV3.jpg\" border=\"2\" width=\"420\" height=\"265\" /></p><div><font size=\"2\"><strong>Chairman of Carnival Corporation on board<br /></strong><br /></font><font size=\"2\">Meanwhile, <strong>maltastar.com</strong> is exclusively informed that the whole incident happened in the presence of the chairman and chief executive officer of Carnival Corporation, the parent company of Cunard cruise lines, which company owns the ship. </font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\">The chairman, Mickey Arison, was on board the Queen Victoria for the maiden call&nbsp;to Malta on Wednesday morning.</font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\">The accident can be a cause for embarrassment to the Maltese authorities. Yet, if the throttles got stuck, as is being stated unofficially, the blame could lay solely on the owners of the ship. </font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font size=\"2\">In reply to questions by <strong>maltastar.com</strong>, a spokesperson for Cunard said: &ldquo;The ship will leave Malta tomorrow (Thursday) after repairs have been carried out &ndash; these are currently taking place and will continue overnight. As for the reason/cause &ndash; it is too early to answer the question while our investigation is taking place.&rdquo;<br /><br /></font><font size=\"2\"></font></div><p align=\"center\"><img src=\"http://www.maltastar.com/UserFiles/20080514QV1.jpg\" border=\"2\" width=\"420\" height=\"265\" /></p><div><font size=\"2\">Eye-witnesses told <strong>maltastar.com</strong> that as the Queen Victoria was being steered along the Waterfront quay, they heard a loud noise and panic ensued for a few moments. </font></div><div><br /><font size=\"2\">In a statement later on Wednesday evening the Maritime Authority said that on &ldquo;approaching the berth, the ship developed mechanical failure and made contact with the quay resulting in limited damage to the fender system and the quay coping. The vessel suffered damage to the stern which damage is being assessed. No injuries to passengers or crew were reported.&rdquo;</font></div><div><br /></div><p align=\"center\"><img src=\"http://www.maltastar.com/UserFiles/20080514QV7_Use.jpg\" border=\"2\" /></p><div><font size=\"2\"><strong>Bad luck?</strong><br /></font><div><font size=\"2\"><br />Interestingly, Queen Victoria was launched six months ago &ndash; December 2007 &ndash; by Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Cornwall Camilla Parker Bowles. But the Champagne bottle used in the naming ceremony failed to break against the &pound;300 million luxury liner &ndash; a sign which is regarded as bad luck in maritime circles. </font></div></div>','2013-01-20 00:06:51',234,1,1,'crashing_entrance_queen_victoria',NULL,197,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,'EXCLUSIVE: Incident happened in the presence of Carnival Corp Chairman Mickey Arison',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(493,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Crazy About Cruises (Ken)','Royal Caribbean deploying two new ships to the West Coast.','Mexico2_310373042.jpg','2008-05-04 17:25:00','Royal Caribbean announced today that they will be deploying Mariner of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas to the West Coast to sail the Mexican Riviera beginning in 2009. Mariner will become the largest ship ever to call the west coast home when it relocates to Los Angeles. Mariner will be sailing 7 night cruises while Radiance will be making shorter 4 and 5 night trips.<br /><br />The full press release from RCI can be read <a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbean.com/ourCompany/pressCenter/pressReleases/info.do;jsessionid=00009-XIx2oaGUCe4d7VoAqnwsS:12hdhu6tq?prDate=05-05-2008&amp;prCode=A\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.','2008-05-15 15:28:39',21,0,-1,'royal_caribbean_deploying_two_new','http://cruisingnut.blogspot.com/2008/05/royal-caribbean-deploying-two-new-ships.html',189,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'0b4ced9e4a374f5ede30c85ff290ca9c','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(495,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','More Europeans are choosing cruise holidays than ever before','1111cruise_115587209.jpg','2008-05-06 12:01:00','<p>New research by TravelMole has revealed that more and more Europeans are choosing to embark on a cruise holiday.</p><p><br />TravelMole has stated that 17 per cent more Europeans opted for cruise holidays in 2007 compared to the previous year, according to statistics from the European Cruise Council (ECC). </p><p><br />Mediterranean cruises are the most popular cruise destinations preferred by 60 per cent of holiday makers, with Caribbean cruises and northern European cruise holidays coming in at a close second and third. </p><p><br />&quot;The popularity of cruising for European holidaymakers is growing faster than anyone in the industry envisaged. The ECC had predicted that we\'d hit four million cruise passengers from Europe by 2010,&quot; commented David Dingle, ECC Chairman.<span> </span>This target has been achieved two years ahead of schedule according to David Dingle. <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/285261973\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></p>','2010-12-17 14:03:56',564,1,-1,'more_europeans_are_choosing_cruise','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/285261973/more-europeans-are-choosing-cruise.html',191,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,2,8,NULL,NULL,'474a1608fb86d9431ba1d3383cbce862','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(496,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Royal Caribbean 2009-2010 Mexican Riviera Cruises','mexico_995478436.jpg','2008-05-06 11:51:00','<div class=\"image\"><a href=\"http://bp0.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SCF8R9Ne2kI/AAAAAAAAAK0/PkRhU6B3xRk/s1600-h/mexico.jpg\"></a></div><p><span>Royal Caribbean has announced details of their 2009-2010 Mexican Riviera cruise season.<span> </span>Royal Caribbean is the cruise company leader in exciting and innovative cruises for families and for active holidaymakers.</span> </p><span><p><br />Cruisers can choose from 55 departures, ranging from four to seven night Mexico cruises, from Los Angeles and San Diego ports.<span> </span>Mariner of the Seas in the Voyager class will take to the West Coast and is the largest cruise ship to be home ported in the Pacific Ocean. </p></span><span><p><br />Alternatively guests can choose from Radiance of the Seas offering short cruises on the West Coast or Serenade of the Seas, with four Panama Canal crossings on the itinerary.<span> </span></p><span></span></span><span></span><p><br />&quot;For the first time, Royal Caribbean is offering a second choice for cruisers to embark on a Mexico cruise from the Southern California port of San Diego,&quot; said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. &quot;Vacationers, as well as groups and incentives travelers will now have more choices for the best cruise offerings from the West Coast to visit the timeless colonial charms of the Mexican Riviera aboard the industry\'s most innovative cruise ships.&quot; </p><p><br />Mariner of the Seas is embarking on a seven night Mexican Riviera cruise with a round trip from Los Angeles and ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.<span> </span>Mariner of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world, offering guests revolutionary amenities such as n onboard ice-skating rink, full-size basketball court, inline skating track, iconic rock-climbing wall, and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants, bars and lounges that runs nearly the length of the ship. </p><p><br />Radiance of the Seas 2009 autumn season will feature a four night itinerary with a call at Cabo San Lucas, and a five-night itinerary which also calls at Ensenada. Radiance is one of Royal Caribbean\'s Radiance class of ships, which features the highest percentage of ocean view staterooms in the line\'s fleet, and a 10-story atrium with glass elevators offering spectacular vistas of the sea.</p><img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/285261974\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2013-01-05 12:15:50',1976,3,-1,'royal_caribbean_2009-2010_mexican_riviera','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/285261974/royal-caribbean-2009-2010-mexican.html',192,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,2,8,NULL,NULL,'8ac43133a8731c793823fc23388e1936','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(565,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Cruise West&#039;s Pacific Northwest &amp; British Columbia Cruise Explores Wilderness, Noteworthy Towns and Cities','AUG_04_cruise_802448727.jpg','2008-05-27 20:55:00','<div class=\"ar\">SEATTLE, May 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Cruise West (http://www.cruisewest.com), the leading small-ship cruise line offering journeys throughout the Pacific Ocean, sails along the coasts of British Columbia and Washington state on the 2008/2009 Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape itinerary. The voyage will visit quaint ports, bustling cities, and remarkable wilderness that have changed little since Captain George Vancouver first set foot in the area. <p>The eight-day, seven-night Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape cruise, with departure dates of September 21, 28 and October 5, 12, 2008 and April 19, 26 and May 3, 2009 will sail on the 102-guest Spirit of Endeavour. Cruising round trip from Seattle, ports of call will include: Nanaimo, &quot;The Harbour City&quot;; Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Park, considered one of the most beautiful cruising areas in British Columbia; Victoria; and historic Port Townsend known for its Victorian architecture. Prices begin at $2,799 per person, round trip. </p><p>Guests are offered a variety of adventures, such as walking the paths at renowned Butchart Gardens; exploring the majestic Puget Sound in search of wildlife and sea life; and optional excursions including kayaking and High Tea at the Victoria Empress Hotel. Guests will also enjoy cultural and educational experiences unique to the Pacific Northwest. Highlights include: admiring cultural history and art of the Coast Salish people including totem poles and carving demonstrations at the Capilano Suspension Bridge; an exclusive Aeolian pipe organ recital by renowned Christopher Peacock at Rosario Resort; and viewing the stunning reflection of the more than 3,000 lights off the water from the Parliament Building in Victoria. </p><p>The Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape offers the Exploration Leaders Program, unique to the Cruise West experience, in which onboard experts provide guests with a wealth of insider knowledge and a passion for the history of the region. Guests on the itinerary will benefit from the insight of these leaders throughout their journey. </p><p>~ Up-Close, Casual and Personal Cruising ~ </p><p>Cruise West offers the opportunity to explore remote and distinctive destinations throughout North and Central America, Asia and the South Pacific. Small-ship cruising allows for personalized experiences not offered by larger cruise lines. Guest capacities aboard Cruise West\'s nine ships range from 78-138. Guests may expect personal enrichment through onboard narrative and presentations by local experts. The ships\' forward lounges and ample outdoor deck space provide outstanding viewing opportunities, and inflatable boats allow for up-close exploration and shore landings. For more information visit www.cruisewest.com. </p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><br /><hr width=\"200\" size=\"0\" /><span class=\"ps\" align=\"left\">Source: Cruise West</span>','2013-01-20 00:00:18',268,1,1,NULL,NULL,255,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Cruising Waters Where Only Small Ships Can Access',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(502,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Ocean Village launch Exclusive Lounge','oceanvillage_481120657.jpg','2008-05-07 04:12:00','<p>Ocean Village has now launched a Club Lounge on both of their ships. </p><p>Guests on board Ocean Village and Ocean Village Two will be able to take advantage of the exclusive lounge that features a number of perks including free internet access, breakfast and afternoon tea plus pre dinner drinks to include unlimited complimentary soft drinks and complementary alcohol between 5pm &ndash; 8pm.</p><p>Ocean Village cruises offer an informal atmosphere which is laid back but still with very high standards. Ocean Village cruises &ndash; for the people that don&rsquo;t do cruises will be offering the services of the exclusive lounge to guests occupying one of the top grades of cabins, the BB grade balcony cabin or the AA grade suite. There is a one off fee of &pound;70 per person and children under the age of 16 are allowed in without charge, providing they are accompanied by an adult. </p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2010-12-18 07:50:54',772,1,-1,'ocean_village_launch_exclusive_lounge','http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~3/286344111/ocean-village-launch-exclusive-lounge.html',195,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,2,1,5,NULL,NULL,'672830d64fa9c93428fa8ccebc4d1c6a','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(738,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','MSC Cruises','MSC Cruises launch express check in service','computer_384474982.jpg','2008-07-31 01:54:00','<p>In an effort to reduce the time is takes to embark on their ships, MSC Cruises have launched an on-line check in service for guests to use in order to make their cruise experience with MSC Cruises as stress free as possible.</p><p>The new service named MSC Express is currently available at most major ports in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, it is currently available for passengers departing from Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples, Palermo, Bari, Venice, Marseille, Barcelona, Valencia, Kiel, Copenhagen and Amsterdam.</p><p>MSC Cruises innovative new fast track system enables passengers to log on to <a href=\"http://www.mscexpress.net/\">www.mscexpress.net</a>, enter their booking details, reservation number, passenger name, together with the ship name and departure date. Once all the details are entered a printout will then produced for the passenger which allows them to be fast-tracked through check in.</p><p>Guilio Libutti, MD, MSC Cruises UK and Ireland says &ldquo;MSC Cruises has a commitment to providing innovative solutions that help our passengers have the most enjoyable trip possible. The addition of online check-in and dedicated MSC Express desks is an extra convenience that cuts queues and waiting times at the port, meeting the growing demands of busy clients. We hope that this new service will help our passengers to start their trip sooner and ultimately get their holiday off to the most relaxing start possible.&rdquo;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:28',323,1,1,NULL,NULL,436,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(739,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','NZ Herald Staff, NewstalkZB.','42 injured after cruise liner hit by New Zealand storm','cruise_large_874888493.jpg','2008-07-31 01:58:00','<p>The storm has lashed New Zealand and is currently drenching the South Island.</p><p>P&amp;O cruises said the ship Pacific Sun was hit by 7 metre swells and 50 knot winds when it suddenly rolled 600km north of Auckland just before 8pm yesterday.</p><p>A spokesperson said onboard medical staff treated about 40 passengers as a result of the sudden movement.</p><p>The ship was due in Auckland this morning but the bad weather has delayed its arrival by 24 hours.</p><p>Maritime authorities are monitoring the cruise liner which is now sitting about 300 nautical miles (540km) north east of New Zealand.</p><p>The vessel\'s crew reported that 42 passengers have received medical attention after the vessel was hit by the severe weather conditions and suffered a sudden heavy roll around 8pm last night. The vessel, carrying 1732 passengers and 671 crew, was en route to Auckland following an eight day cruise in the South Pacific.</p><p>The New Zealand Rescue Co-ordination Centre has asked the ship to send regular updates on its status.</p><p>The vessel has not reported that it is in distress.</p><p>A Maritime NZ safety inspector will visit the vessel to check on her when she arrives in port, which is scheduled for tomorrow.</p><p>Passengers emailing the Herald from the Pacific Sun said the sudden movement had caused a mess in parts of the ship.</p><p>But some families in New Zealand told the Herald that email from the ship was only intermittent and it is hard to get in touch with the Pacific Sun, except by satellite phone.</p><p>Cerise Jordan emailed the Herald to say that her mother is on board the liner.</p><p>&quot;She has confirmed that there are a number of passengers injured. Most with varying degrees of bruising. She stated clearly that the staff have been fantastic in extremely difficult circumstances.</p><p>&quot;Last night when the ship rolled she and her party were in the casino. They were injured as a result of machines coming loose and rolling into them. When in the dining hall the ship rolled again and she said all the crockery went flying.&quot;</p><p>Some of the families of injured passengers on board a cruise ship battered by rough seas north of Auckland have heard about their loved ones through the media.</p><p>&quot;Kim&quot; from Christchurch is trying to contact her elderly father, sister and friends on the cruise. </p><p>She says they were told this morning that the ship was going to be delayed 24 hours because of the weather, but did not know about the injuries until listening to news bulletins.</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:26',173,1,1,NULL,NULL,428,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'The Pacific Sun, here pictured off the Loyalty islands, New Caledonia, has been hit by the storm. Photo / Martin Sykes',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(740,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Greater Fort Lauderdale Gears for Upcoming Cruise Season','123_221666739.jpg','2008-07-31 21:34:00','<p>Just in time for the 2008-2009 winter Caribbean cruise season, Port Everglades, located in Greater Fort Lauderdale will become home to five of the cruise industry\'s eight newest cruise ships. The world\'s third busiest cruise port, Port Everglades will serve approximately 3.14 million cruise passengers this coming year. </p><p>Several newly built cruise ships will be joining the Port Everglades fleet this season, including: Holland America Line\'s 2,104-passenger Eurodam will kick off the season as the first new cruise ship to arrive at Port Everglades. Princess Cruises will celebrate the official naming of the line\'s newest ship, Ruby Princess; Celebrity Cruises brand new 2,850-passenger Celebrity Solstice will also be named at the port. </p><p>Carnival Cruise Lines\' 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor will make her maiden call in the United States in November when the 3,006-passenger ship sails into Port Everglades. Finally Royal Caribbean International\'s 160,000-ton Independence of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship to ever visit Port Everglades when the 3,634-passenger ship arrives in the port. In addition, sailing for the first time from Port Everglades are Princess Cruises\' Tahitian Princess, MSC Cruises\' Orchestra and Carnival Cruise Lines\' Carnival Freedom (which will be sailing year-round from Greater Fort Lauderdale). </p>','2013-01-19 23:50:22',193,2,1,NULL,NULL,431,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(741,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cayman Net News','Editorial: Between the devil and the deep blue sea','123_463321278.jpg','2008-07-31 21:37:00','<p>The issue of pre-term, or premature, births was very much in the news last year, following the incident aboard a Cayman Airways flight to Jamaica; however, the promised but still missing announcement concerning the proposed cruise facilities is more a case of post-term, or overdue berths.</p><p>Unfortunately, this seems to be yet another of the unfulfilled promises of the current Minister for Tourism, Hon Charles Clifford, and, given that 2009 cruise ship itineraries have probably already been fixed by now, any movement towards berthing facilities at this stage will be of no benefit to us until 2010, if then.</p><p>Royal Caribbean will be raising the &lsquo;size matters&rsquo; stakes next year with the launch of its 220,000-ton Genesis vessel, reported to be able to accommodate some 5,400 passengers. A second Genesis vessel will launch a year later.</p><p>Clearly, there is no way that our current method of passenger disembarkation could ever cope with a vessel and passenger complement of that size.</p><p>The possibility of constructing cruise ship berths has been a matter of discussion and debate for years, but with nothing ever coming of it.</p><p>We must assume that, in the light of Mr Clifford&rsquo;s seemingly premature announcement earlier this year, the government has decided in principle to move away from the antiquated system of passenger disembarkation by tenders.</p><p>It would be nice to think that there remains a niche in the market place for a small island destination like the Cayman Islands catering to smaller, more exclusive vessels (for as long as there are such things around), but realistically it&rsquo;s not going to happen.</p><p>The lack of berthing facilities in Grand Cayman has long been cited as a weakness and, clearly, the construction of adequate berths would remove what is perceived as a negative factor for passengers. <br />They would also allow cruise ships to stay overnight (if they can be persuaded to do so), which might then offer some of the revenue benefits to be gained for the economy from such quasi stay-over visitors.</p><p>Cruise ships overnighting for between one and three days will allow visitors to spend more time on the island and to spend more money, which will go some way towards alleviating the effects of any drop-off in stay-over tourism.</p><p>But all is not smooth sailing in this respect - another choice that will eventually face us is whether to allow the mega-ships to visit.</p><p>The increasing number of mega-ships putting to sea is causing some major headaches for port authorities in popular destinations, which are struggling to cope with the super-sized vessels.</p><p>As one observer has commented, &ldquo;Mega-ships for mega-ports will cost mega-bucks for cruise ship ports.&rdquo;</p><p>Modern ship technology has made most of the existing ports obsolete to the extent that port expansion programmes have had to be initiated every 10 years or so, just to keep pace with developments in the industry.</p><p>According to industry experts, at a minimum, a port serving the cruise industry today needs at least two mega-ship berths if they are to make an impact.</p><p>In addition, ports need to have dredge depths of at least 35 feet alongside. Depths under this will limit the range of ships that will call.</p><p>On top of this will be the necessary port reception and passenger-handling facilities.</p><p>And there are environmental issues inherent in the size of these floating resorts. The large passenger capacities of these ships have an impact with which we can already identify, such as traffic congestion, crowded beaches and waste releases. In fact, the poor waste-management record of cruise lines in general led one of our regular columnists to characterise many cruise ships as &ldquo;behaving like floating elephants in our Caribbean Sea&rdquo;.</p><p>In addition, there is the sedimentation caused by cruise ships, the possibility of serious damage to our fragile reefs and the extreme toxicity to marine life, plus the dangers related to the huge surface area of anti-fouling paint these ships have underneath.</p><p>However, if we don&rsquo;t accommodate the market requirements, is there any long-term future in this sector for the Cayman Islands?</p><p>There would definitely seem to be none in the absence of permanent berthing facilities.</p><p>This could well be a case, therefore, of being between the devil and the deep blue sea.</p>','2013-01-19 23:58:45',184,1,1,NULL,NULL,429,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(735,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','P&amp;O Cruises announce new Gary Rhodes summer menus','123_647520270.jpg','2008-07-29 23:27:00','<p>P&amp;O Cruises celebrity chef Gary Rhodes, who recently won a Michelin star for his latest restaurant, has created a new fresh menu for the summer season at Arcadian Rhodes and Oriana Rhodes, Gary&rsquo;s restaurants at sea.</p><p>Dishes on the menu include seared foie gras on a sweet corn chilli pancake, fillet of red snapper with a lobster, shrimp and mussel bouillabaisse and iced lemon chiboust, red berries and shortbread fingers.</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises head of brand marketing, Philip Price said &ldquo;Gary&rsquo;s two restaurants at sea give passengers more choice for premium dining whilst holidaying on board with us &ndash; the new menus reflect the tastes of the summer and we are sure they will be a hit with passengers.&rdquo;</p>','2013-01-19 23:52:30',243,1,1,NULL,NULL,423,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(736,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Costa Cruises','Costa Cruises Commissions Monumental Sculpture by Fernando Botero to Add to Fleet’s Multimillion Dollar Art Collection','botero_fernando_collage_1205430_137879343.jpg','2008-07-29 23:29:00','<p>MIAMI, July 28 &mdash; Costa, Europe&rsquo;s Number One Cruise Line, has commissioned a monumental bronze sculpture by world-renowned artist Fernando Botero for its newest ship, the Costa Luminosa. The bronze sculpture is currently taking shape at the Mariani foundry in Pietrasanta, Italy, where Botero creates his works using the ancient traditional technique of lost wax casting. Once completed, the work of art will be installed in the atrium of the Costa Luminosa in May 2009, when the ship comes into service. &ldquo;Reclining Woman 2004&Prime; depicts a voluminous female figure staring into space, daydreaming in a reclining position with a subtle and ironic expression and with her legs in a dynamic position of movement. The sculpture, which is 346 cm in length, 177 cm in breadth, 152 cm in height and 910 kg in weight, boasts an imposing presence which defines and influences the surrounding space, establishing an ongoing dialogue with the decoration in the atrium of the Costa Luminosa. The lone individual is the subject of many of the artist&rsquo;s works, which often feature single female figures in striking poses, with expressions and attire that Botero uses to telling effect in order to convey personality, experience, thought and desire.</p><p>&ldquo;The decision to acquire the sculpture &lsquo;Reclining Woman 2004&prime; by Fernando Botero for the Costa Luminosa is first and foremost the consequence of a personal passion for that artist&rsquo;s creative work as a whole and also represents the continuation of a tradition for Costa, namely that of decorating our ships with contemporary works embracing the various forms of expressive art and displaying them to our guests on vacation,&rdquo; said Pier Luigi Foschi, Chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere. &ldquo;This particular sculpture by Botero has such expressive force and energy that it will interact with and influence the setting and interior design in the spectacular atrium of the ship where it is to be permanently exhibited.&rdquo;</p><p>The Costa Luminosa (92,700 gross tonnage and total guest capacity of 2,260) will be a trendsetter in contemporary design. The ship will draw her inspiration from the idea of light in all its forms and in keeping with Costa Cruises&rsquo; tradition of choosing a central theme for the interior decoration of each ship. With the Costa Luminosa, this theme will highlight iridescent interiors decorated with superior materials including fine marble, wood and mother-of-pearl and the use of state-of-the-art technology that will provide stunning light and color effects. Botero&rsquo;s specially commissioned sculpture will become the symbol of the ship herself, which will combine the very best of the Costa product, designed to satisfy even the most discerning customer.</p><p>The central staircase onboard the Costa Luminosa will display a set of previously unpublished photographs, entitled &ldquo;A Homage to the Master&rdquo; and consisting of nine panels by Matteo Piazza depicting the artist Botero at work on paintings and sculptures. The large photographs are in black and white and measure 210&times;120 cm. As with all ships in the Costa fleet, the public areas and cabins on the Costa Luminosa will feature the works of selected contemporary artists commissioned to carry out original creative projects based on the central idea of interior decoration. The ships in the Costa fleet are veritable floating resorts offering accommodations, entertainment, enjoyment and relaxation for over one million guests each year. Costa&rsquo;s multimillion dollar art collection aboard its fleet of ships is displayed in public areas of the ship, which become natural settings for the display and appreciation of works of art in a traveling exhibition seen by a vast and culturally diverse public.</p><p>Over the past 60 years, Costa has established itself as a modern-day patron of the arts by acquiring and installing works of art onboard its fleet of ships by leading international sculptors and paintings commissioned from contemporary artists and inspired by themes of each ship. These constitute an artistic heritage and superb floating collection on all 12 ships in service. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012.</p>','2013-01-07 01:37:03',294,1,1,NULL,NULL,424,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(737,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Regent Seven Seas','Regent Seven Seas new ship in development','rssc_249341724.gif','2008-07-31 01:50:00','<p>Regent Seven Seas, the luxurious 6 star cruise line, has recently announced that they have a new ship under development. Currently Regent Seven Seas fleet of sumptuous ships includes The Seven Seas voyager, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, Paul Gauguin and expedition ship Minerva.</p><p>The newest addition to the Regent Seven Seas fleet will be approximately 60,000 tons and will accommodate between 750-800 guests creating an intimate and exclusive cruise experience that is Regent Seven Seas trademark.</p><p>To provide even more luxury for guests, all suites on the new ship will have balconies. The ship which is yet to be named will be unveiled in 2012.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:24',237,1,1,NULL,NULL,427,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(511,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Loyal Princess Passengers Receive New Launch Discounts','logo_192540375.gif','2008-05-05 11:25:00','<h3 class=\"title\"><font color=\"#000000\"></font></h3><p><font color=\"#000000\">SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 5, 2008) - Loyal Princess passengers who book early to reserve their favorite destination and accommodations can now receive extra savings with the line\'s new Princess Captain\'s Circle Launch Savings benefit. This new discount offers Circle Members up to $300 off when they make their cruise reservations shortly after new cruise schedules are announced. The program offers one of the industry\'s best past passenger values, as it can be combined with other promotional fares. </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Debuting with summer 2009 itineraries, the savings vary by destination and apply to all cabin categories. The program is offered to Circle Members at all membership levels - Gold, Platinum and Elite. For 2009-2010 departures, Europe and Alaska cruises must be booked by September 30, 2008 and all other destinations must be booked by December 31, 2008.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&quot;We have many loyal past passengers who routinely book their sailings soon after we announce our new schedules,&quot; said Jan Swartz, Princess\' senior vice president of customer service and sales. &quot;So we created this new discount to offer them extra rewards for their loyalty and for booking their cruises early. And unlike many other cruise industry discounts, these savings apply even if the passenger qualifies for other offers - whether a special group rate or subsequent fare specials.&quot;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\"><img src=\"https://book.princess.com/images/cc/landing_pros_banner.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"princess_cruises_captain_circle.jpg\" width=\"498\" height=\"89\" /></font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Once booked, Launch Savings remain in effect, and can be applied to most other subsequent promotions, allowing past passengers to always have the best fares for which they qualify. The savings can be combined with Escape Fares, group rates, regional promotions, and other past passenger discounts.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The Princess Captain\'s Circle has received acclaim for offering some of the richest loyalty benefits in the cruise industry. Among the many perks available to the most loyal past Princess cruisers are a free mini-bar set up, free Internet packages, free laundry services, priority tender embarkation, complimentary wine tasting, a boutiques discount, and preferred embarkation and disembarkation.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">For more information about the Princess Captain\'s Circle, visit the Circle Center and click on &quot;Member Benefits.&quot;</font></p>','2013-01-20 00:23:19',177,1,1,'loyal_princess_passengers_receive_new_discounts',NULL,202,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Princess Captain&#039;s Circle Members Rewarded with Extra Discount for Early Bookings',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(513,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Windstar Cruises','Windstar Cruises Increases Fuel Surcharge Through Spring 2009','CruiseRight_451803467.jpg','2008-05-15 20:42:00','<p>Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury yachts that explore the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world&rsquo;s most treasured destinations, will increase its fuel surcharge from $8.50 to $10.00 per person, per day for future sailings due to the continued escalation in fuel prices.</p><p>The surcharge applies to all currently published sailings through spring 2009, for all new bookings, beginning May 19, 2008.</p><p>&ldquo;We are disappointed that this adjustment is necessary, but we hope our guests understand the impact that soaring fuel prices are having on the cruise industry,&rdquo; said Diane Moore, president, Windstar Cruises.</p><p>About Windstar Cruises<br />Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world&rsquo;s most treasured destinations.&nbsp; Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information including brochures, rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245.&nbsp; Visit Windstar Cruises online at <a href=\"http://www.windstarcruises.com/\">www.windstarcruises.com</a>.</p><p>Windstar is a division of Ambassadors International Cruise Group, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ambassadors Cruise Group, LLC.</p><p>###</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 00:16:04',263,1,1,'windstar_cruises_increases_fuel_surcharge',NULL,204,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(512,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','NCL Welcomes Return of Norwegian Sky to Miami','SKY_ship_landing_515x219_773417997.jpg','2008-05-06 11:30:00','<h3 class=\"title\"><font color=\"#000000\"><font size=\"2\">Ship to sail three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas beginning mid-July 2008 with introductory kids sail free promotion</font> </font></h3><p><font color=\"#000000\">Miami - May 6, 2008 - NCL Corporation (NCL) announced today that it will reflag and rename Pride of Aloha and launch the ship as Norwegian Sky, offering three and four-day Bahamas cruises from Miami commencing this summer. The 2,002-passenger ship, built in 1999, will return to the NCL international fleet, and will be outfitted with NCL\'s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements. It will be the youngest and highest quality ship sailing three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas from Miami beginning July 14, 2008. The new itineraries go on sale today with fares from $229 per person for an inside stateroom and from $329 per person for a balcony stateroom. </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">To welcome the ship to Miami, NCL is offering a &quot;Kids Sail Free Summer Vacation&quot; promotion for reservations on Norwegian Sky made from May 6, 2008 to May 31, 2008 for sailings taking place July 14, 2008 to September 26, 2008. Children ages six months to 17 are eligible to sail free (government taxes and fees and fuel supplement apply). </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&quot;NCL pioneered the first Bahamas cruise from Miami more than 41 years ago and last had a ship in the three and four-day cruise market from Miami in 2003. By reintroducing Norwegian Sky and positioning the ship in Miami sailing short cruises to the Bahamas, we are returning to our roots. At the same time, we are raising the bar by offering a modern Freestyle Cruising ship that features a variety of accommodations, including balconies and suites, a multitude of on-board amenities and a choice of six restaurants,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;In addition, we will outfit Norwegian Sky with the Freestyle 2.0 enhancements currently being introduced across our fleet. This, coupled with the port-intensive itineraries, offers guests seeking a quick getaway an unmatched cruise experience. There is no doubt that NCL\'s three and four-day Freestyle product on the industry\'s newest ship offers the highest quality and best value for money in the market.&quot; </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\"><img src=\"http://www.cruising2europe.com/imgs/cruiseline/norwegian_cruise_line/logo.gif\" border=\"0\" alt=\"norwegian_cruise_line.jpg\" width=\"138\" height=\"77\" /></font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Norwegian Sky will depart Miami on Mondays sailing four-day Bahamas cruises with full-day stops in Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL\'s private island in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship will sail a weekend getaway three-day Bahamas itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to Miami at 7 a.m. on Monday mornings. These sailings are scheduled through April 17, 2009. </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Norwegian Sky will enter a wet dock in Miami during which a casino will be added. In addition, the ship will receive the significant product and hardware upgrades that are part of the company\'s major fleetwide initiative, Freestyle 2.0. These enhancements include: a major investment in the total dining experience such as all new menus and Lobster Galore; upgrading the stateroom experience; new wide ranging on-board activities for all guests; and additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony and suite guests. </font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Originally launched in 1999, Norwegian Sky has more than 240 balcony staterooms, a choice of six different restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two pools, extensive children\'s facilities, a sports deck and a variety of spacious public rooms. Norwegian Sky had been reflagged and renamed Pride of Aloha in 2004 and sailed Hawai\'i inter-island cruises until May 2008. </font></p>','2013-01-20 00:21:18',197,1,1,'ncl_welcomes_return_of_norwegian_sky_to_miami',NULL,203,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(514,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Features New Quebec Ports on 2009 Canada/New England Cruises','2437262099_f4f1eeb7e8_874014640.jpg','2008-05-12 20:45:00','<p>SEATTLE, May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line will debut three new ports in Quebec on its 13-, 14- and 15-day cruises to Canada and New England between May and October 2009. The longer cruises of the Signature-class ms Eurodam and popular ms Maasdam will call at Gaspe, Baie-Comeau and/or Sept-iles, creating new opportunities for guests to enjoy extraordinary scenic, cultural and wildlife watching experiences in Quebec. </p><div class=\"ar\"><p>Together, the five-star Eurodam and Maasdam will offer 21 Canada and New England cruises ranging from seven to 15 days in 2009. Guests will have the choice of sailing from five convenient home ports -- Boston, Montreal, Quebec City, New York and Fort Lauderdale. </p><p>&quot;Gaspe, Baie-Comeau and Sept-iles are fantastic new ports that feature outstanding attractions,&quot; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &quot;Our goal is to introduce guests to a wide range of new outdoor activities and cultural experiences on these cruises, whether on a fall foliage cruise or enjoying a summer family vacation.&quot; </p><p>From Gaspe, guests can experience dramatic sea cliffs of Forillon National Park, Bonaventure Island with North America\'s largest colony of gannets, and Perce Rock National Park, known for excellent opportunities to see blue, humpback, fin and rorqual whales. Baie-Comeau features the Borealis Center, a maritime adventure park with spectacular landscapes and activities such as hiking, sea kayaking and interpretive cruises. </p><p>Sept-iles introduces guests to a native Innu community, providing a unique cultural experience through its historic trading post and Innu museum. The Rail and River Tour takes guests by train along the majestic Moisie River, known for its salmon and unforgettable scenery, to an Innu summer camp where guests enjoy reenactments of tribal customs and a salmon bake. </p><p>Maasdam Offers 15 Seven-Day Sailings for Easy Family Cruises </p><p>The Maasdam kicks off the 2009 season May 8 with a 15-day cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Montreal. The 1,258-guest ship calls at Charleston, S.C.; Newport, R.I.; Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island before spending a day each at new ports Gaspe and Sept-iles. The Maasdam then cruises the scenic Saguenay Fjord, calls at Port Saguenay and visits Quebec City for two full days before reaching Montreal. </p><p>In the fall, the Maasdam departs Oct. 10 on a similar 13-day cruise from Montreal to Ft. Lauderdale that features Gaspe and Baie-Comeau. Most ports of call are the same with the addition of Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick and several days at sea from Bar Harbor to Ft. Lauderdale. </p><p>From May 23 to Oct. 3, the Maasdam sails 14 seven-day cruises between Montreal and Boston, featuring scenic cruising of the St. Lawrence River and calling at Quebec City, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax and Bar Harbor. Guests can opt for excursions such as touring Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor by bike, exploring the Peggy\'s Cove Lighthouse Route near Halifax and joining the popular Anne of Green Gables tour in Charlottetown. </p><p>The ship also offers a seven-day, roundtrip cruise from Boston Aug. 29 that calls at Portland, Maine, Saint John, Halifax, Sydney and Bar Harbor. </p><p>Eurodam Offers 10-day Cruises, plus 14-day Sailing Featuring Gaspe </p><p>Signature-class Eurodam features three 10-day cruises between New York and Quebec City departing Aug. 27, Sept. 6 and 16. The 2,104-guest ship calls at Newport, Rhode Island, Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown and Quebec City for a full day and overnight stay. </p><p>On Sept. 26, the Eurodam sails a special 14-day cruise from Quebec City to Ft. Lauderdale that features the new port of Gaspe during the peak of fall color. The ship continues to Corner Brook, Newfoundland, cruises the scenic Bay of Islands and calls at Charlottetown, Saint John, Portland, Boston, Newport and New York before sailing for Ft. Lauderdale. </p><p>On all of Holland America Line\'s Canada and New England cruises, a wide variety of shore excursions offer hundreds of optional tours ranging from soft adventure to culinary experiences. Medallion excursions provide unparalleled access to events and sights not otherwise available. For example, guests can experience a day in the life of a British redcoat at the Halifax Citadel, sail Nova Scotia\'s Bras d\'Or Lake or enjoy a private luncheon at one of Bar Harbor\'s most elegant Victorian summer homes. </p><p>Holland America Line offers pre- and post-cruise hotel reservations in Boston, New York, Montreal, Quebec City and Fort Lauderdale. It also features a three-night Montreal/Montebello/Ottawa package. </p><p>Canada/New England cruise fares start at $1,099 per person, double occupancy. Taxes and fuel supplement are additional. For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit http://www.hollandamerica.com. </p><p>- http://www.hollandamerica.com - </p><p>About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL - News and CUK - News)] </p><p>Holland America Line\'s fleet of 13 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 314 ports of call in 97 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, including Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. A 14th ship, ms Eurodam, will launch in July 2008. </p><p>Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, totaling more than $425 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food &amp; Wine magazine -- a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes -- Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner\'s Dream Beds. </p><p>World\'s Leading Cruise Lines </p><p>The highest-rated premium cruise line in the world, Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World\'s Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World\'s Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world\'s most desirable destinations.</p></div>','2013-01-20 00:23:00',172,1,1,'holland_america_line_features_new_quebec_ports',NULL,205,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,'Eurodam and Maasdam Offer 21 Cruises ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(515,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Rolls Out Extensive Redesign Of Popular Web Site','carnivalsite_367614847.jpg','2008-05-15 11:52:00','<p>Carnival.com, the cruise industry&rsquo;s most visited Web site, has undergone an extensive redesign and emerged with a host of new features, including enhanced navigation and layout, a variety of images and content, and numerous technical advancements, all designed to make users&rsquo; on-line experience easier and more informative than ever. </p><p>Highlighting the next generation of carnival.com are dozens of entertaining new videos and virtual tours, along with upgraded images and content showcasing all 22 of the line&rsquo;s &ldquo;Fun Ships.&rdquo; Also included are upgrades to special sections focusing on various aspects of the Carnival vacation experience such as dining, spa, youth programs, destinations and shore excursions.&nbsp; </p><p>The &ldquo;new and improved&rdquo; carnival.com features an enriched Gifts and Services section that allows visitors to purchase a variety of items that can be delivered to guests&rsquo; staterooms prior to their cruise. The section also includes detailed product descriptions for gifts ranging from special occasion cakes, fine wines and flowers to stateroom decorations and wedding/romance-themed gift packages. </p><p>There&rsquo;s also an updated section where first-time cruisers and visitors can sign up for Carnival news and information via both email and RSS feeds.</p><p>The new site has a strong focus on enhancing end-user support, with a more detailed FAQ section, an enhanced site search engine, and live feeds featuring Carnival news headlines on virtually every page. </p><p>The site also includes a number of technological advancements, with a higher site resolution that provides a better platform for multi-media components, greater compatibility across all Web browsers and optimized Web pages for visitors who access the site via hand-held phones and other communication devices.</p><p>&ldquo;Just as Carnival&rsquo;s on-board product continues to evolve so do our marketing channels.&nbsp; The next generation of carnival.com is designed to provide visitors with a wealth of information and images to learn more about &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo; vacations&rdquo; said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival&rsquo;s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience. </p><p>Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 &ldquo;Fun Ships&rdquo; operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Bermuda, Europe, and South America.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>The line has three new ships scheduled for delivery between now and 2011.&nbsp; The first of these, the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, is slated to debut in Europe July 2, 2008.</p>','2013-01-20 00:26:49',138,1,1,'carnival_rolls_out_extensive_redesign_of_popular_web_site',NULL,206,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(516,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Expands Alaska Shore Excursions With A Number Of New Tours For Exploring The ‘Last Frontier’','snoww_997085318.jpg','2008-05-16 16:30:00','<p>Alaska is one of the world&rsquo;s most beautiful destinations and Carnival Cruise Lines has expanded its shore excursion offerings in the &ldquo;Last Frontier&rdquo; with 10 exciting new tours that cater to adventure lovers and history buffs alike.&nbsp; </p><p>Carnival&rsquo;s summer 2008 lineup of new shore excursions includes everything from fascinating historical and cultural tours to glass-blowing demonstrations and a trip on one of the Bering Sea fishing boats from the reality program, &ldquo;Deadliest Catch.&rdquo; </p><p>Carnival will offer more than 120 different shore excursion choices in total on its seven-day itineraries aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit.&nbsp; Voyages depart northbound from Vancouver or southbound from Whittier/Anchorage, with each itinerary introducing guests to Alaska&rsquo;s stunning beauty through scenic cruising opportunities.&nbsp; </p><p>Guests have the option of sailing one of three seven-day itineraries: Southbound, Northbound or Glacier Bay. Each itinerary provides incredible views with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, Lynn Canal, Prince William Sound, College Fjord and Glacier Bay as Carnival Spirit makes its way to Alaska&rsquo;s most popular port towns including Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.</p><p>In Skagway, the Gateway to the Klondike, cruisers can now take part in the new &ldquo;Golden Glassblowing Experience.&rdquo; This hands-on outing allows guests to sculpt their own work of art complete with 24-karat gold and have the finished product packed and shipped home as the ultimate souvenir. Also making a debut this season is the &ldquo;Takshanuk Mountain Trail by 4&times;4.&rdquo; This journey begins with a scenic cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran down North America&rsquo;s longest and deepest fjord. A four-wheel drive &ldquo;mule,&rdquo; or heavy-duty golf cart, continues the journey, taking guests to beautiful waterfalls and crystal clear creeks before reaching sub-alpine meadows, followed by a gourmet lunch and fast-ferry return to the ship. </p><p>Skagway, located in the upper Lynn Canal, is considered the northernmost point in Southeast Alaska and features wooden sidewalks, old-fashioned saloons and horse-drawn carriages serving as reminders of the Alaska gold rush days. Those seeking a golden treasure can opt for the &ldquo;Gold Fever Adventure,&rdquo; which allows guests to pan for gold on an active claim. </p><p>Joining Ketichkan&rsquo;s array of excursions are four new experiences, including the &ldquo;Bear Creek Zip Line and Challenge Course.&rdquo; This eco-rainforest adventure begins with an all-terrain vehicle ride, suitable for beginners and experts, and features zip lines, tree platforms, a skywalk, a rainforest swing, rope-bridge and a spruce slide. Those seeking a more relaxing day can explore Revillagigedo Island, which boasts the world&rsquo;s largest collection of totem poles, or opt for the &ldquo;Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary, Eagles &amp; Totems,&rdquo; an eco-exploration with a guided nature hike, bald eagle viewing and interaction with reindeer.</p><p>Foodies also are in for a treat with Carnival&rsquo;s latest culinary offering in Ketchikan &mdash; &ldquo;The Alaskan Chef&rsquo;s Table, A Cultural Affair.&rdquo; This culinary tour allows guests to see how local produce is caught and then crafted into a sumptuous Alaskan dinner party. This excursion keeps on giving once guests return home, as they receive a unique keepsake box featuring recipes for the dishes served so they, too, can re-create the fun for friends and family. </p><p>Those wanting to get a little more up-close and personal with their Alaskan fare may want to board the Aleutian Ballard for the &ldquo;Bering Sea Crab Fisherman&rdquo; experience. The Aleutian Ballard, the king crab fishing vessel made famous by the Discovery Channel&rsquo;s original series &ldquo;Deadliest Catch,&rdquo; invites guests calling at Ketchikan to sail and learn how these boats operate and to hear first-hand accounts of the crews&rsquo; Bering Sea exploits. </p><p>Juneau, America&rsquo;s largest capital city geographically, also presents an incredible opportunity for cruisers. Here guests can board their own private custom-built catamaran, complete with captain and naturalist, to explore the region&rsquo;s ice-carved fjords and rugged coast. This &ldquo;Wild Coast Exploration by Private Boat&rdquo; accommodates up to six guests and lets them set a course for watching whales, bears and eagles, or hauling in their own catch of the day.</p><p>While calling at Sitka, history enthusiasts who take &ldquo;Sitka&rsquo;s Cultural &amp; Colonial Russian Tour&rdquo; will gain an appreciation for the island community. Participants will delve into the region&rsquo;s history at the Sheldon Jackson museum, the oldest exhibit of Indian and Eskimo artifacts in Alaska; view a former World War II PBY Aircraft Base, and visit St. Michael&rsquo;s Cathedral &mdash; home to priceless religious artwork dating back to the late 15th century. </p><p>Back on board, Carnival Spirit&rsquo;s activities cater to the whole family with relaxing spa experiences or dining options such as the elegant reservations-only Nouveau Supper Club, and children&rsquo;s programs for three different age groups &mdash; Camp Carnival for kids, Circle C for &rsquo;tweens and Club O2 for teens.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>Carnival Spirit also offers indoor and outdoor promenades, a variety of entertainment options and a diversity of nightclubs, lounges and live music venues. Additionally, 80 percent of the staterooms aboard the Carnival Spirit offer either an ocean view or balcony &ndash; ideal for scenic Alaska cruising.</p>','2013-01-19 23:56:44',161,1,1,NULL,NULL,211,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(517,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Cruise ship workers win discrimination settlement','PrideofAloha_828187855.jpg','2008-05-15 00:30:00','<div class=\"ar\">HONOLULU (AP) -- NCL America Inc. has agreed to pay $485,000 to settle a discrimination lawsuit involving seven crew members with Middle East backgrounds who lost their jobs aboard the cruise ship Pride of Aloha. <p>The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced Thursday that the company also agreed to revise its policies to ensure a workplace that promotes equal employment opportunities. </p><p>In resolving the lawsuit that the commission filed in 2006, NCL America denied it had acted improperly in firing the seven Middle Eastern crew members. </p><p>&quot;We are very pleased with this outcome, and NCL America should be applauded for its commitment to prevent discrimination by agreeing to the comprehensive injunctive relief in this case,&quot; said Anna Y. Park, regional attorney for the commission\'s district office in Los Angeles. </p><p>NCL America agreed to hire an equal employment opportunity consultant and to train its managers and employees regarding the company\'s equal employment policy and complaint procedure. </p><p>Meanwhile, the cruise ship that began plying Hawaii waters in 2004 is to join NCL\'s international fleet and be outfitted with a casino. It is shifting to a Miami-Bahamas route beginning in July. The move means the vessel will go back to its original name -- Norwegian Sky. </p><p>NCL once had three U.S.-flagged ships cruising among the Hawaiian Islands. Citing increased expenses and insufficient revenue from the operation, it is now left with just one -- Pride of America.</p></div>','2013-01-19 23:48:18',269,1,1,NULL,NULL,207,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,'Cruise ship company NCL America agrees to pay $485K to former workers in discrimination case ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(518,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Holland America Line’s Culinary Arts Center Program Flourishes With More Than 70 Culinary Experts','123_396183688.jpg','2008-05-17 18:10:00','<p>SEATTLE, May 16 &mdash; Taking chefs from kitchens and restaurants all around the country and placing them aboard Holland America Line ships, the line&rsquo;s Culinary Arts Center program continues to flourish. Since its inception four years ago, the program has nearly doubled with more than 70 culinary experts participating in the ongoing 2008 season including cookbook authors Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough, on Holland America Line&rsquo;s new ms Eurodam.</p><p>&ldquo;The Culinary Arts Center is a guest favorite,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;We will continue to expand the program and provide our guests with the culinary experiences that have made it such a success.&rdquo;</p><p>Holland America Line launched its innovative culinary program in 2005 with the installation of state-of-the-art Culinary Arts Centers aboard each of its premium ships offering culinary demonstrations, tastings and hands-on cooking classes. The line expanded the program by partnering with Food &amp; Wine magazine to provide guests on select cruises the opportunity to experience demonstrations and seminars conducted by a wide diversity of culinary experts.</p><p>A new addition to the 2008 season is Eric Villegas, host of the Emmy Award-winning PBS series, Fork in the Road, who is scheduled to sail aboard the ms Veendam June 13-20th.</p><p>The Culinary Arts Program includes cookbook authors as well as wine and spirits experts such as master mixologists Christy Pope and Chad Solomon. Other participating chefs and experts in the continuing 2008 season include:</p><ul><li>Sally Bernstein, Restaurant Critic and Culinary Educator (San Francisco) sailing on ms Zaandam June 8 -15.</li><li>Chef Gustav Mauler from Amsterdam-Dover sailing on ms Prinsendam July 3 -17.</li><li>Pichet Ongvasit of Copenhagen sailing on ms Rotterdam July 16 -28.</li><li>Johnny Iuzzini, Executive Pastry Chef, Jean Georges (NY) aboard ms Noordam July 26 - August 5.</li><li>Max McCalman of Artisanal Cheese (NY) sailing on ms Noordam August 5 -15.</li><li>Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough, authors of the &ldquo;Ultimate&rdquo; cookbook series sailing on ms Eurodam August 14 - 29.</li><li>Mark Frasier and Clark Gaier from Mediterranean (Venice) sail on ms Zuiderdam September 17 - 29.</li><li>James Mazzio, Executive Chef, Via (Denver, CO) and Food and Wine&rsquo;s Best New Chef 1999 sailing on ms Amsterdam September 19 - October 22.</li><li>Harold Dieterle, Perilla (NY) and Top Chef Season 1 Winner will be aboard ms Amsterdam October 22 - November 4.</li></ul><p>In addition to partnering with Food &amp; Wine to secure top experts, Holland America Line showcases its own culinary stars on more than 500 annual cruises with demonstrations, tastings and hands-on cooking classes given by the ships&rsquo; executive chefs and culinary staff. The line&rsquo;s cookbook A Taste of Excellence, written by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, offers guests preparation techniques for some of Holland America&rsquo;s most delectable dishes and lavish libations as part of the Culinary Arts Center experience.</p><p>A state-of-the-art &ldquo;show kitchen at sea,&rdquo; the Culinary Arts Centers resemble the elaborate show kitchens used by celebrity chefs on television cooking programs. Each facility features a theater-style venue, with two large video screens to display overhead and close-up video views of food preparation, and a large cooking display counter where guests can learn from the masters. Culinary demonstrations also are filmed and aired on in-stateroom televisions. Holland America Line invested more than $13 million to create and install the Culinary Arts Center facilities on each of its ships as part of the Signature of Excellence initiative and has invested more than $425 million to date in product and service enhancements.</p><p>The newest ship to join the fleet, the 2,104-guest ms Eurodam, launches in July 2008 and will feature three new dining venues: Tamarind, the Asian restaurant; Canaletto, the Italian restaurant and Slice, an all-day pizza outlet.</p><p>For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit <a href=\"http://www.hollandamerica.com/\" title=\"http://www.hollandamerica.com\">www.hollandamerica.com</a>.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:50',209,1,1,NULL,NULL,209,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(519,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','MSC Cruises','MSC Poesia: A New Star in the Eastern Mediterranean','2373646290_1c8cf0b858_987065580.jpg','2008-05-17 18:17:00','<p class=\"style7\">FORT LAUDERDALE, FL &ndash; MSC Poesia, MSC Cruises&rsquo; new flagship, will be cruising to Greece, Turkey and Croatia, offering 8-day/7-night cruises to discover the treasures in the eastern Mediterranean. Refinement and class are but a few of the outstanding elements of this latest addition to the fleet. Designed by Studio De Jorio International with sophisticated color schemes, attention to detail and service, this ship will ensure guests enjoy a truly special cruise. Coming in at 92,400 tons, the ship has a total of 1,275 staterooms, of which 80% are outside staterooms and 65% have a balcony. There are 16 decks, with 13 accessible to the public. She has a maximum cruising speed of 23 knots. There are more than 236,800 square feet of public space, 2 pools and 4 hot tubs, plus the Aurea Spa&trade;, which covers 16,000 square feet. <br /><br />MSC Poesia&rsquo;s weekly cruises depart from Venice<font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\"><span><font size=\"2\"> every Saturday through Nov. 8,</font></span></font> arriving every Sunday into Bari and then onto Katakolon to discover the archaeological treasures of Olympia. The ship will then call into Izmir, &ldquo;the beautiful&rdquo; Turkish resort situated at the end of a long and slim gulf. This will be followed with a stop in a city that straddles east and west, where centuries have added to the &lsquo;must see&rsquo; quarters of magical Istanbul. Crossing the Bosporus and the Dardanelles, the ship will arrive in Dubrovnik, the &ldquo;pearl of the Adriatic,&rdquo; before returning to Venice. <br /><br />Shore excursions offered include: </p><p class=\"style7\">Olympia (from Katakolon) -- The ancient city at the foot of Mount Kronos, home to the Olympic games of ancient times. Today the archaeological site showcases beautiful temples, the stadium and buildings used by the Greek athletes of the past. <br /><br />Ephesus and Mary&rsquo;s House (from Izmir) -- Join a guided tour of the ruins of a famous ancient city, stopping at the Odeon theater and the library of Celso. Then visit Mary&rsquo;s House, where the mother of Jesus is said to have lived her last years. <br /><br />Deluxe Istanbul -- Discover some of the gems of this amazing metropolis &ndash; from the Blue Mosque to the ancient Hippodrome, to Saint Sofia and the Topkapi Palace. Also included is a visit to the colorful Grand Bazaar, the main covered market in the city.</p>','2013-01-19 23:56:32',258,1,1,NULL,NULL,208,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(520,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Royal Caribbean Announces Return To South America, Showcasing Grand Cities, Glaciers, And Carnival','1548169630_95c5aacc89_509659446.jpg','2008-05-17 18:19:00','<p>MIAMI - Dust off those tango shoes, and head to the South American summer in winter 2009-10. Royal Caribbean International today announced nine South America cruises, ranging from 11- to 15-night itineraries, aboard Radiance of the Seas for the ship&rsquo;s second consecutive winter season in the region. As one of the Royal Caribbean ships that offer the highest percentage of oceanview staterooms, Radiance features glass elevators in a 10-story glass atrium for spectacular vistas of the unfolding South American coastline. Bookings for these cruises open today.</p><p>&ldquo;South America is such a fascinating destination and we are pleased to bring Radiance of the Seas back to the region,&rdquo; said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. &ldquo;On any of these Radiance cruises, guests will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of South American cultures and celebrations during the region&rsquo;s prime season. Guests also can extend their vacations with a Royal Caribbean cruisetour to visit more inland attractions.&rdquo;</p><p>Four-night pre- or post-cruise cruisetour programs give guests the opportunity to explore the metropolitan charms of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls along the Argentina and Brazil border. Cruisetour guests enjoy fully escorted itineraries, which include deluxe hotel accommodations, air and ground transfers, certain meals, and time for individual pursuits.</p><p>For the 2009-10 winter season, vacationers can choose among six cruises which &rsquo;round the horn&rsquo; of South America and journey through the Straits of Magellan. These 12- to 14-night itineraries alternate departures from Valparaiso, Chile, and Buenos Aires, featuring a cruise through the glacier-filled Chilean fjordlands, and a call at Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. On three particular sailings, guests enjoy an in-port overnight stay aboard Radiance in Buenos Aires at the beginning or end of the cruise.</p><p>A very special 11-night itinerary, sailing on February 10, 2010, features three days in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which coincides with the city&rsquo;s annual Carnival festivities. Guests sail round-trip from Buenos Aires, enjoying an in-port overnight stay aboard Radiance to kick off the cruise.</p><p>Cruisers also can select from among two Pacific equatorial crossings aboard Radiance, sailing from San Diego to Valparaiso on November 21, 2009, and returning on March 7, 2010.</p><p>Guests aboard Radiance enjoy the line&rsquo;s award-winning Broadway-style musical revues from Royal Caribbean Productions, multiple onboard bars, lounges and discos throughout the ship, and Vegas-style gaming in the Casino Royale. The ships&rsquo; onboard Day Spa also offers a full range of rejuvenating treatments, and the adults-only Solarium pool provides a more sedate and relaxing environment.</p><p>Younger cruisers will laugh and learn in the line&rsquo;s top-rated Adventure Ocean kids program, with teen-only spaces fleetwide. Families also can stay in and order room service - always complimentary 24 hours a day - and catch a popular on-demand movie.</p><p>Throughout, every guest will enjoy Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s Gold Anchor standard of friendly and engaging service from staff and crew.</p>','2013-01-19 23:59:54',140,1,1,NULL,NULL,210,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(521,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Ventura County Star Wire Reports','Cruise ship to move to Caribbean route','PrideofAloha_773206135.jpg','2008-05-18 23:11:00','<p>HONOLULU &mdash; The Pride of Aloha ship, which cruised Hawaiian waters from 2004 to early May, will shift to a Miami-Bahamas route beginning July 14.</p><p>Pride of Aloha also will get back its original name &mdash; Norwegian Sky.</p><p>The ship is to join Norwegian\'s international fleet and be outfitted with a casino.</p><p>The ship was supposed to shift to Asian cruises after completing its Hawaii service, but Norwegian Cruise Lines, its owner, now says it will be redeployed on the Florida-Caribbean route with three- and four-day cruises.</p><p>Norwegian once had three U.S.-flagged cruise ships plying Hawaiian waters. Citing increased expenses and insufficient revenue from the Hawaii cruises, it\'s now left with Pride of America.</p>','2013-01-19 23:50:51',240,1,1,NULL,NULL,212,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(522,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','International Cruise Council','Double Digit Growth for New Zealand Cruise Industry','2112744238_8144a03252_364886497.jpg','2008-05-18 23:13:00','<table border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" class=\"story-top\"><tbody><tr><td colspan=\"2\"><span class=\"byline\"><br /><strong>Press Release: International Cruise Council</strong></span> </td></tr></tbody></table><p>The growing popularity of cruising among New Zealanders has been confirmed by new industry statistics that show more than 30,000 Kiwis took a cruise holiday last year. </p><p>The figures, compiled by the International Cruise Council Australasia, reveal an 11 per cent growth rate in New Zealanders enjoying ocean cruises, with numbers rising from 26,510 in 2006 to a record 29,316 in 2007. </p><p>The statistics also show 899 New Zealanders took a river cruise holiday in Europe during 2007, taking the total cruise passenger numbers for the year to 30,215. </p><p>Announcing the figures in Auckland today, Cruise Council General Manager Brett Jardine described the industry&rsquo;s growth rate as very impressive. </p><p>&ldquo;Cruising is booming around the world and we can see from these figures that New Zealand is no exception,&rdquo; Mr Jardine said. </p><p>&ldquo;As the number of cruise ship visits to New Zealand continues to increase and cruise ship deployments expand around the world, we believe even more New Zealanders will be tempted to discover the joys of cruising.&rdquo; </p><p>Mr Jardine said the New Zealand statistics showed that cruises in Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific waters were the most popular, with 19,604 passengers &ndash; or 64.9 per cent of total New Zealand passenger numbers &ndash; choosing to sail in the region. </p><p>The second most popular destination was Europe, which attracted 3743 passengers - about 12 per cent of the market - as the number of cruise ships operating in the region continued to grow. The European river cruise segment, which was included in the New Zealand statistics for the first time this year, accounted for a further 3 per cent of the market. </p><p>Mr Jardine said the statistics also revealed a trend towards longer cruises. The proportion of passengers cruising for more than 15 days more than tripled to about 8 per cent of the market, while passengers taking shorter 5-7 day cruises fell from around 30 per cent to 20 per cent of overall numbers. </p><p>&ldquo;This means that not only are more New Zealanders cruising, they&rsquo;re also taking full advantage of the relaxing nature of a cruise and travelling for longer periods,&rdquo; he said </p><p>The 2007 New Zealand Cruise Industry Statistics were compiled by InTouch Data Pty Ltd. </p><p>The International Cruise Council Australasia is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 1996, committed to training travel consultants and raising consumer awareness of cruising. Look for the ICCA logo when considering your cruise holiday or visit www.cruising.org.nz to find your nearest ICCA accredited agent.</p>','2013-01-19 23:57:19',238,1,1,NULL,NULL,213,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(523,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Asia Pulse','Bali To Build Modern Port For Cruise Ships','bali_700255855.gif','2008-05-18 23:20:00','<h1><font size=\"2\">DENPASAR - A modern and permanent port for foreign cruise ships will be built in the Indonesia\'s island resort of Bali, chief of Bali Provincial Transportation Office Putu Sujana Cahyanta said here on Thursday.</font> </h1><p>He expressed hope that after the completion of the port, foreign cruise ships passing by the Indonesian waters would take a few days to make a port call at the Indonesian island. </p><p>&quot;Luxury cruises ships carrying tourists from other countries to Singapore are expected to come to Bali as well after the modern, permanent port is ready,&quot; Putu Sujana said. </p><p>He pointed out that at least 300 luxury cruise ships, each with 1,500 to 2,000 tourists, arrived in Singapore every year. </p><p>&quot;Those floating hotels on their way to a number of countries in Asia usually pass Indonesian waters, and therefore they are expected to make a stop in Bali when the port is ready,&quot; Putu Sujana said, adding that the facility was under construction. </p><p>He estimated that even if only half of the 300 cruise ships made port calls to Bali, it would have a positive impact on the tourist industry in the province, as well as on the local people\'s economy. </p><p>Putu Sujana said the modern port for cruise ships was under construction in Karangasem district, with financial support from the central government, Bali provincial administration, and Karangasem district administration. </p><p>The construction of the port is expected to finish in 2009. </p><p>At least 17 cruise ships with thousands of foreign tourists aboard stopped at the old port in Karangasem in 2007, and 15 cruise ships in 2006. </p><p>One of them was Italian Costa Marina cruise with 496 tourists, which anchored at Karangasem port for two days. </p><p>Putu Sujana said that before the Bali bombing tragedy, more than 20 cruise ships made a stop in Bali, and in 1995 alone, 70 of them, with hundreds of thousands of tourists arrived on the resort island.</p>','2013-01-19 23:55:40',167,1,1,NULL,NULL,214,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(524,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Bill Hensel Jr, Houston Chronicle','Shiny new port terminal has everything except ships','311xInlineGallery_973778542.jpg','2008-05-18 14:23:00','<p class=\"copyright\">The gleaming new $81 million cruise terminal at the Port of Houston will open soon, but don\'t expect throngs of passengers, streamers or cracking champagne bottles.</p><div class=\"bodycopy\"><p>Or a ship, for that matter.</p><p>Port officials haven\'t yet secured a deal with any cruise operators, and officials say ships probably won\'t start setting sail from the Bayport berth until fall 2009, even though the facility should be finished by the end of this summer.</p><p>&quot;That is the primary next season we are looking at, although there is a chance of a vessel earlier,&quot; said Wade Battles, managing director of the Port of Houston Authority.</p><p>Port officials are in talks with Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Mediterranean Shipping Co.\'s MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, he said. However, those lines have made no public indication that Houston might be on their maps anytime soon.</p><p>One culprit for the delay is the weak dollar. Experts say cruise lines that prefer to be paid in more valuable euros are concentrating on the European market, making life tough for U.S. ports of call.</p><p>But Barry Klein, a taxpayer advocate who worked against the bond proposal to fund development of the overall Bayport complex, questioned the push for the cruise terminal.</p><p>&quot;The port authority jumped into the market before the market actually sensed a need,&quot; said Klein, who is president of the Houston Property Rights Association. &quot;Now I guess they are having sort of a setback before even having one open.&quot;</p><p>Harris County Judge Ed Emmett said Wednesday that the port authority was in detailed negotiations at one point with one of the lines, but it just didn\'t work out.</p><p>&quot;I\'m not worried long term. We will get something,&quot; Emmett said. &quot;I have confidence in the folks at the port. They will get a cruise line. I know everybody is a little frustrated at the delay.&quot;</p><p>Harris County Commissioners Court appoints two members to the seven-member Port of Houston Authority Commission.</p><p>Battles acknowledged there will be additional costs associated with maintaining an open &mdash; but unused &mdash; terminal.</p><p>&quot;So, you have got utilities you have to provide and housekeeping so when a ship does arrive, your facility is in top-notch condition and ready to be used,&quot; said Battles, who didn\'t put a number on the cost.</p><h3>Originally set for spring</h3>The cruise terminal was part of a $387 million bond proposal Harris County voters approved in 1999 for the Bayport complex, which opened early last year. A subsequent $250 million bond issue for additional funding was approved last year. <p>&nbsp;</p><p>The facility was supposed to be open this spring but was delayed, in part to put in additional security requested by U.S. Customs and city fire officials.</p><p>The port authority isn\'t new to the cruise business. Norwegian Cruise Line, which pioneered year-round Texas-based cruising in 1997 and operated from its Barbours Cut terminal until April 2007, and its vessels consistently were packed with vacationers.</p><p>However, spokeswoman Courtney Recht said this week that the cruise line\'s &quot;current deployment does not have us calling on Houston.&quot;</p><p>Mediterranean Shipping Corp.\'s MSC Cruises operates an eight-ship fleet with four large vessels under construction, two of which are set to sail this year. Since MSC already is a big client at the Bayport container terminal, port officials have been pushing for the company to add the cruises. But a spokeswoman for MSC Cruises said she had no information regarding the possibility of sailing from the new terminal.</p><p>Holland America probably couldn\'t even consider sailing from the new Houston terminal or anyplace else before 2010, spokesman Erik Elvejord said.</p><p>&quot;Currently, we haven\'t made plans to sail out of Houston,&quot; Elvejord said.</p><p>Princess Cruises has sailed out of Galveston in the past, but spokeswoman Karen Candy said she has no confirmation there are plans to sail out of Houston\'s new terminal.</p><h3>Container terminal running</h3>While the Bayport container terminal opened in early 2007 and has seen increasing amounts of cargo moving through, construction of the cruise terminal was viewed in some circles as more of a roll of the dice. <p>&nbsp;</p><p>On its Web site, the Port of Houston Authority said the cruise terminal plans to serve various cruise lines and expects final decisions for sailing in 2009 to be made by next month.</p><p>The North American cruise market is highly concentrated, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line accounting for about 97 percent of passengers, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. However, many lines moved ships to Europe in the past two years because they could make more money there.</p><p>&quot;But we think some of those vessels will be coming back to the North American market, and as they return, that is where there will be additional opportunities for vessels to sail out of the Gulf,&quot; Battles said.</p><p>Bob Simonson, an analyst with William Blair who covers the industry, said Houston\'s terminal should be OK once the Caribbean cruise market, which Houston primarily serves, improves.</p><p><img src=\"http://images.chron.com/photos/2008/05/16/jfg_0516_cruise/jfg_0516_cruise.jpg\" border=\"0\" width=\"250\" height=\"328\" /></p><p>&quot;I would think that Houston, being such a big market with an opportunity to drive in from any number of locations, will be a solid investment over the next five or 10 years,&quot; Simonson said.</p><p>Steve Cernak at the Port of Galveston, which hosts two Carnival vessels and another from Royal Caribbean, acknowledged there has been a slight retrenchment in the industry because smaller ships have been going to Europe.</p><p>&quot;We have been fortunate in Galveston because as smaller vessels have been redeployed, they have had larger ships replace them,&quot; said Cernak, the port director.</p><p>There simply aren\'t enough cruise ships to go around right now, he said.</p><p>&quot;It is because they are all going to call these new markets, and it is a business opportunity for these cruise lines,&quot; Cernak said.</p></div>','2013-01-19 23:59:18',340,1,1,NULL,NULL,215,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'The new cruise terminal at Bayport which was supposed to open this spring, but it will now be later in the summer upon its completion. No cruise line has been signed up yet to dock at new terminal.\r\n','Mayra Beltran: Houston Chronicle',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(525,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Princess Cruises release schedules for 2009-2010 Caribbean and Mexican Riviera Cruises','mexico_245568222.jpg','2008-05-20 00:58:00','<h3 class=\"post-title entry-title\"><span><font color=\"#000000\"><font size=\"2\">The relaxing voyages of 7 to 14 days offer guests the opportunity to experience these magical ports and take in the dramatic scenery, colourful cultures, and white sand beaches whilst also enjoying the delights of Princess Cruises large, amenity filled ships.</font></font></span></h3><div class=\"post-body entry-content\"><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span><br />Princess Cruises will feature 13 itineraries in the Caribbean with 6 ships sailing to more than 25 ports.<span> </span>Ruby Princess will take over Princess Cruises 10 day Eastern and Southern Caribbean voyages, offering visits to some of the less visited ports in the region.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span><br />Emerald Princess will be sailing the Eastern Caribbean itinerary and Crown Princess the Western Caribbean.<span> </span>Caribbean Princess will continue to sail on alternative 7 day Southern Caribbean sailings from San Juan.<span> </span>Princess Cruise&rsquo;s Grand Princess will be returning with an extensive 14 day Caribbean Collection route and Sea Princess will be taking to the sea&rsquo;s again with a 14 day cruise from Barbados.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span><br />The Mexican Riviera will be visited by Sapphire Princess sailing the 7 day Mexican Riviera route from Los Angeles and Star Princess will be <strong><font color=\"#4386ce\">cruising</font></strong> for a 10 day journey from Barbados.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span></span><br />&quot;The Caribbean and Mexican Riviera both offer the delightful sense of fun and make for a wonderful warm weather escape,&quot; said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president. &quot;And passengers will also be able to enjoy an array of fantastic ships on these routes, including Caribbean Princess and Star Princess with brand new piazza-style atriums and a number of new features.&quot;</p></div>','2013-01-19 23:52:16',264,1,1,NULL,NULL,217,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Princess Cruises have now announced their new season of cruises to the sun drenched Caribbean and Mexican Riviera.',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(526,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Business Wire','BAE Systems Completes Historic Repair of Cruise Ship','prideeee_358399377.jpg','2008-05-20 01:00:00','<div id=\"story_body\"><p><span class=\"dateline\">HONOLULU &mdash; </span>BAE Systems has successfully completed a $4.1 million two-week drydocking of NCL America\'s (NCLA\'s) Pride of America cruise ship May 9 at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. The work, which began on April 26, is an important step in generating ship refurbishment and maintenance work in Hawaii.</p><p>Pearl Harbor Naval Ship Yard entered into a &quot;Private-Public Partnership&quot; agreement with BAE Systems Hawaii Shipyards and NCLA to utilize the Navy\'s facilities at Pearl Harbor to drydock the 921 foot-long, 81,000-ton ship -- the largest private ship ever to be docked at Pearl Harbor. The Pride of America returned to service May 10 with a seven-day Hawaii itinerary.</p><p>&quot;With the shipyard capacity at Pearl, and our central location, it makes sense for Hawaii to take a larger role in repairing both military and civilian ships,&quot; said Roger Kubischta, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Hawaii Shipyards.</p><p>&quot;The drydocking of the Pride of America at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard is a win-win for everyone involved in this Public-Private Partnership agreement and demonstrates NCL\'s continued commitment to Hawaii,&quot; said Alan Yamamoto, NCLA vice president of Hawaii Operations, &quot;NCL America\'s ability to perform a drydock working with BAE Systems at Pearl Harbor supports the military and local community.&quot;</p><p>BAE Systems Hawaii Shipyards is a business area of BAE Systems Ship Repair, the United States\' leading non-nuclear ship repair, modernization and conversion company. It employs 175 people. BAE Systems is also a member of the Ship Repair Association of Hawaii, which represents 800 personnel in the local marine industry.</p><p>BAE Systems has more than 800 employees across a number of locations, making it the largest aerospace / defense contractor, and private sector ship repair company in Hawaii. The company supports Department of Defense customers with a variety of mission support services, research &amp; development, and information technology solutions in Hawaii and throughout the Pacific Rim, to include Alaska, Japan, Okinawa, Korea, and Guam.</p><div id=\"NTL3\" class=\"advertisement\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8px\"><!--dart_adid_201111386--><!-- Start of interCLICK (C) In-Page Code --><!-- Ad Format: Medium Rectangle (300x250) --><!-- Domain: http://www.realcities.com --><!-- Copy and paste this ad code between the  and  tags of your page. --><!-- End of interCLICK (C) In-Page Code --><a href=\"http://a1.interclick.com/ClickTrackingURL.aspx?aid=8197&amp;redir=http%3a%2f%2finstantiqtest.com%2f4\" target=\"_blank\"></a></div><p>About BAE Systems</p><p>BAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, BAE Systems\' sales exceeded GBP 15.7 billion (US $31.4 billion) in 2007.</p></div>','2013-01-24 13:27:15',263,1,1,NULL,NULL,216,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(527,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','EasyCruise','easyCruise Life launches this weekend','19_05_08_001_L_458519477.jpg','2008-05-20 08:24:00','<p>EasyCruise Life has set sail on its maiden cruise from Piraeus, Athens (Saturday 17th May). The ship is visiting five different Greek islands and Turkey&rsquo;s number one resort, Bodrum, with an itinerary that will run until 11th October 2008.<br /><br />EasyCruise Life will be cruising to five different Greek Islands, from the laid back Syros to the lively Kalymnos, Kos, Paros and Mykonos. The itinerary also includes easyCruise&rsquo;s first visit to Bodrum, Turkey. In fact passengers will be able to enjoy a full day and night in both Mykonos and Bodrum &ndash; an experience which is rare with other cruise lines. Customers can also choose where to join the cruise &ndash; in Athens on Saturday or in Bodrum on Monday.<br /><br />EasyCruise Life is twice the size of first ship, easyCruiseOne and carries over 500 passengers. On board, there is a bar, restaurant, spa, sauna, pool, chill out zone and outdoor wellness zone. Cabins range from twin inside cabins to panoramic suites which are also ideal for families (2 adults, 2 children).</p>','2013-01-19 23:49:48',139,1,1,NULL,NULL,218,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(528,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','travmedia.com/uk','Spirit Of Adventure Is The Natural Selection For Wildlife Cruises','157154_640395482.jpg','2008-05-20 08:26:00','<font size=\"2\">Spirit of Adventure will invite passengers to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin&rsquo;s birth on a spectacular voyage around the natural wonders of central and southern America next year.<br /><br />The 352-passenger ship will visit the rich habitats once trodden by Britain&rsquo;s greatest naturalist &ndash; born in 1809 - throughout the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica and the Amazon Rainforest during its 2009 cruise schedule.<br /><br />Each itinerary within the collection combines a superb mix of exploration, discovery, lifelong learning and fascinating ports of call which are often too small for many of the larger ships to access. <br /><br />After exploring Antarctica, the High Andes and Galapagos Adventure cruise will follow the footsteps of Darwin during his research on the diverse Galapagos Islands, which helped formulate his theory of evolution. Departing February 21 2009 and starting in Chile, Spirit of Adventure sails north to Peru and Ecuador before passengers join a memorable three-night cruise aboard MV Galapagos Explorer II &ndash; during which they will visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre. Prices start from &pound;4,354 per person for the 18 might adventure.<br /><br />For passengers wanting to uncover the rich and exotic flora and fauna of the Amazon, Secrets of the River Sea will discover the fascinating habitat along South America&rsquo;s longest river. Charting a course along the Amazon, the 22-night voyage will give people the chance to enjoy expeditions into the surrounding jungle - home to one of Brazil&rsquo;s most endangered primates, the Pied Tamarin &ndash; and visit the town of Santarem, which was once home to the Tapajos Indians. Prices for the cruise, which departs on March 24 2009, start from &pound;3814 per person.<br /><br />More nature-spotting is on offer on the Tropical Wildlife and Wonders cruise, a 15-night journey from Costa Rica to the eastern Caribbean. Passengers will be invited to take an eco-jungle river adventure along the canals of Tortuguero or go swimming with dolphins in Tortola. Other highlights include cruising the Panama Canal, a visit to Port Antonio, Jamaica, and an unforgettable rainforest aerial tram joinery through the Dominican rainforest. Departing March 10 2009, prices start from &pound;2939 per person.<br /><br />All Spirit of Adventure cruises include a series of meticulously planned shore excursions, which delve deeper into the historical, cultural and architectural surroundings of each destination visited. In addition, each day of exploration is further enhanced by a comprehensive programme of lectures led by expert guest speakers on board. The topics covered include archaeology, history, local traditions and food and wine.<br /><br />For further information on Spirit of Adventure cruises, visit our web site and book online at www.spiritofadventure.co.uk<br />or call 0800 300 432 to request a brochure.<br /><br />-Ends-<br /><br />For media information and press trip requests contact:<br /><br />Frances Liddiard / Carl Catterall <br />Spirit of Adventure <br />Tel: 01303 771522 <br />Email: firstname.lastname@saga.co.uk<br /><br />Or Vicky Hayes / Nadya Willard <br />Brighter PR <br />Tel: 0207 603 2168 <br />Email: firstname.lastname@brightergroup.com</font>','2013-01-19 23:53:47',164,1,1,NULL,NULL,219,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(529,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Corporation &amp; Plc Chairman And CEO Micky Arison Featured In On-Line ‘Webisode’ On BookCCL.Com','aaa_191379194.jpg','2008-05-20 22:34:00','<p>Carnival Corporation &amp; plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison is shown here being interviewed by Carnival Cruise Lines Senior Vice President of Sales and Guest Services Lynn C. Torrent during the taping of a webisode that is currently airing on the line&rsquo;s travel agent portal, www.BookCCL.com.&nbsp; </p><p>Arison&rsquo;s interview is the latest in a series of webisodes &ndash; entitled &ldquo;Onboard with Carnival&rdquo; &ndash; that feature a different member of Carnival&rsquo;s management team, all in a relaxed talk show-like setting.&nbsp; Arison is profiled in a two-part interview with the second webisode debuting Monday, June 2.&nbsp; </p><p>In the first webisode, Arison recalls the &ldquo;early days&rdquo; of Carnival, while in the second he offers his insight into the company&rsquo;s current goals, as well as his perspective on the future of Carnival and the cruise industry as a whole. He also details his own relationships with travel agents, which includes a stint as a Carnival field sales representative early in his career. </p><p>In addition to the interview with Arison, the &ldquo;Onboard with Carnival&rdquo; series has featured Carnival President and CEO Gerry Cahill.&nbsp; Upcoming interviews include Carnival&rsquo;s Executive Vice President of Marketing and Guest Experience Ruben Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of Marketing Planning Terry Thornton, and Vice President of Group Sales and Administration Cherie Weinstein. </p>','2013-01-19 23:50:12',528,1,1,NULL,NULL,220,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(718,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Cruise Line Recognized in Condé Nast Traveler’s August Cruise Issue','123_766374879.jpg','2008-07-22 23:22:00','<p>Miami - Jul 21, 2008 - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) received top billing in Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler magazine&rsquo;s special August cruise issue, which hits newsstands today. The top-rated travel magazine recognizes Norwegian Gem as one of the best cruise ships for &ldquo;spa lovers&rdquo; and Norwegian Jade as one of the best for &ldquo;foodies.&rdquo;</p><p>&ldquo;Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Jade are two of our newest Freestyle Cruising ships that offer an unmatched cruise experience and appeal to a wide range of vacationers,&rdquo; said Colin Veitch, NCL&rsquo;s president and CEO. &ldquo;It is particularly gratifying to be recognized by the editors at Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler, since this widely read publication is respected the world over as a genuinely independent authority on travel.&rdquo;</p><p>Conde Nast Traveler&rsquo;s Consumer News Editor Wendy Perrin opens the special pullout section with a letter to readers highlighting the amenities she and her family enjoyed during their sailing on board Norwegian Gem&rsquo;s seven-day Florida &amp; Bahamas sailing from New York.</p><p>She writes that she found the perfect ship for a family holiday because Norwegian Gem had everything she needed including, &ldquo;&amp;a well-equipped child-care center with age specific programs and plenty of kids for my boys to befriend; sports facilities that would allow me to exhaust the whirling dervishes with minimal effort on my part (large pool, a water slide, basketball court, space for running); a selection of kid-friendly places to eat; and never having to dress up.&rdquo;</p><p>Norwegian Gem Best for Spa Goers<br />Norwegian Gem, NCL&rsquo;s newest Freestyle Cruising ship, was lauded as having one of the best spas at sea. In the Yin &amp; Yang Spa, guests can receive a wide range of exotic and rejuvenating treatments in 18 rooms, plunge into the thalassotherapy pool and relax on heated poolside loungers.</p><p>Norwegian Gem is currently sailing seven-day Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona. From November through April, the ship sails seven-day Bahamas &amp; Florida and 10 and 11-day Exotic Southern Caribbean itineraries out of New York.</p><p>Norwegian Jade Best for Foodies<br />Sailing year-round in Europe, Norwegian Jade is touted in the magazine for its 12 restaurants which give guests the opportunity to eat whenever and wherever they want. The ship caters to a wide range of tastes and features Le Bistro, NCL&rsquo;s signature French restaurant; Cagney&rsquo;s Steakhouse; Papa&rsquo;s Italian Kitchen; Paniolo&rsquo;s, offering authentic Tex-Mex; an Asian complex featuring Japanese teppanyaki, a sushi bar and an Asian fusion eatery; a 24-hour diner; and an action station restaurant. With the recent Freestyle 2.0 enhancements, all of Norwegian Jade&rsquo;s restaurants have new, expanded menus and Lobster Galore, where foodies can find lobster in a different restaurant every night of the cruise.</p><p>Norwegian Jade homeports in Europe year-round sailing three to 23-day itineraries with ports of call in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Africa and Spain.</p><p>For more information and cruise tips from Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler, visit <a href=\"http://www.cntraveler.com/cruise\">www.cntraveler.com/cruise</a>. To book a cruise on Norwegian Gem or Norwegian Jade, call a travel professional or NCL at 866-234-0292.</p><p>NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new Third Generation Freestyle Cruising (&rdquo;F3&Prime;) ships for delivery in 2010.</p><p>NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships in the market, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.</p>','2013-01-20 00:00:47',191,1,1,NULL,NULL,408,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(531,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','AIDA Cruises','AIDAdiva wins ShipPax Award 2008','aids_780102187.jpg','2008-05-20 22:49:00','<p>The club vessel AIDAdiva has won the worldwide renowned innovation award ShipPax Award 2008 in the category &ldquo;Cruise Lounges&rdquo;.</p><p>The award was given for the multifunctional Theatrium, the place where theater, atrium, bars and a market place melt together to form a unique spatial experience. The ample, light-flooded room<br />extends on 3,000sqm over three decks. Huge glass walls create a special atmosphere and allow for a view onto the sea around the clock. The AIDAdiva bar &ldquo;Pier 3&Prime; was awarded as well. The bar is<br />located nearby the tender gates and the gangway. Guests enjoy the view on two &ldquo;french balconies&rdquo; - situated directly above the water surface -, which add to the spatial situation.<span></span></p><p>AIDA Cruises is very happy about the award: &ldquo;The ShipPax Award is an affirmation of our innovative fleet policy,&rdquo; points out Michael Thamm, president of AIDA Cruises. &ldquo;With the construction of six<br />AIDA new buildings until the year 2012, we offer our passengers various new attractions and one of the latest cruise-liner fleets worldwide.&rdquo;</p><p>ShipPax Award<br />Since 1999, the Swedish publishing house ShipPax Information annually donates the ShipPax Award. It is presented in eight single categories. The prices are awarded to future-oriented shipyards and<br />shipping companies in order to sponsor innovative passenger-ship constructions. The members of the jury are shipping experts with different backgrounds and from diverse fields. All cruise liners,<br />ferries and roll-on/roll-off ships commissioned in the previous year are evaluated.</p><p>AIDA Cruises<br />AIDA Cruises is leader on the German sea-voyage market. Being shipping company and organizer in one, the company operates and merchandises the club vessels of the AIDA fleet - AIDAaura, AIDAvita,<br />AIDAcara, AIDAdiva and AIDAbella. The AIDA fleet continuously grows throughout the next years. From 2009 until 2012, AIDA Cruises receives a new ship every year. The company invests all-together 2<br />billion Euros in the new-building program that comprises six vessels. They new buildings are constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg. In 2012, nine club vessels will be part of the AIDA<br />fleet, offering voyages in the Mediterranean Sea, around the Canaries, onto the North and the Baltic Sea, in the Persian Gulf, in North America and Asia.</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:05',240,1,1,NULL,NULL,222,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(532,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Canada Invests $46 million in Cruise Tourism Development','quebec_538782294.jpg','2008-05-20 22:54:00','The Canada Economic Development agency plans to invest $36 million to further develop international cruise business in Quebec along the St. Lawrence and Saguenay rivers over the next three years. This initiative is intended to renovate port facilities to accommodate the berthing of high-tonnage cruise ships and at enhancing tourist attractions to increase the appeal of Quebec ports of call for cruise ship passengers. The latest allocation is in addition to $10 million awarded to the city of Saguenay in February 2007 to develop a port of call at Baie des Ha! Ha! The other ports targeted by this initiative are Baie-Comeau, Saguenay, Sept-&Icirc;les, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Gasp&eacute;sie and &Icirc;les-de-la-Madeleine.<br /><br />&quot;The international cruise industry is experiencing significant growth,&quot; said Jean-Pierre Blackburn, minister of labour and Canada Economic Development. &quot;It is important that we take steps now to harness travelers\' mounting interest in the St. Lawrence Seaway as a prime tourist stop. New world-class ports of call for cruise ships will help strengthen and diversify the economy of these targeted regions. Over the long range, these improved port facilities will mean a greater number of foreign tourists visiting our regions and, consequently, a higher level of tourism revenues.&quot;<br /><br />This initiative is expected to generate considerable spin-offs for Quebec by the year 2014, including a rise in international cruise ship spending to reach a total of $223 million, the creation and maintenance of some 2,800 jobs and the injection of about a billion dollars into the Quebec economy. &quot;With this initiative, the targeted cities and communities will be able to develop the kind of community infrastructure that will help them strengthen and build on their socio-economic development,&quot; Blackburn said. For more information, visit http://news.gc.ca. ','2013-01-19 23:50:09',223,1,1,NULL,NULL,223,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(726,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Offers Early Advantage Fares on 2009 Cruises Booked by September 15','zuiderdamlg_626829983.jpg','2008-07-26 18:19:00','<p>SEATTLE, July 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Gearing up for its 2009 cruise season, Holland America Line will offer Early Advantage savings on a wide selection of cruises and CruiseTours when booked by September 15, 2008. Past guests can save even more, and on select sailings, special fares are available for third or fourth guests who share the same stateroom starting at just $99 per person.</p><p>With savings of up to $2,200 per person, the Early Advantage promotion encompasses an extensive selection of 2009 cruises sailing to more than 320 ports of call in destinations around the world: Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, and South America/Antarctica.</p><p>Highlights of next year\'s deployment include the first full year of itineraries aboard the new ms Eurodam; four distinctive Grand Voyages of 50 to 117-days aboard ms Rotterdam, ms Prinsendam and ms Amsterdam; full Panama Canal transits in fall and winter aboard ms Statendam; ms Oosterdam sailing in South America as the first Vista-class ship in the Southern Hemisphere; and more than 20 new ports introduced worldwide.</p><p>&quot;Cruising is a popular vacation choice and a very good value today so we want to reward those who book early,&quot; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &quot;Planning ahead means even greater savings plus more stateroom and departure options.&quot;</p><p>For example, with these special advance fares, guests can book a 10-day Mediterranean cruise with fares starting as low as $1,449 per person, double occupancy, for an inside stateroom and $2,149 for a verandah -- and third or fourth guests cost from only $299. A 16-day South America cruise starts at $1,899 for an inside or outside stateroom. A 14-day Australia/New Zealand cruise starts at $1,699 for an inside and $1,899 for an outside.</p><p>In other regions, a 7-day Caribbean cruise starts at $599 for inside staterooms and $899 for verandahs. A 15-day Circle Hawaii cruise starts at $1,499 with an optional upgrade to an outside stateroom for only $200. And a 14-day full transit of the Panama Canal begins at $1,499 for an inside or $1,799 for an outside.</p><p>The popular 7-day Alaskan Explorer cruise, roundtrip from Seattle, starts at $699 for inside staterooms or $1,149 for verandahs. Another option is an Alaska CruiseTour, varying in length from 11 to 20 days, starting at $1,249 for inside staterooms and $1,449 for outside staterooms.</p>','2013-01-23 01:09:37',225,1,1,NULL,NULL,416,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(551,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Royal Caribbean Declares Dividend','royal_caribbean_logo_833022236.gif','2008-05-23 11:41:00','The Board of Directors of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE, OSE: RCL)&nbsp;has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share payable on June 20, 2008, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 6, 2008. &nbsp; <br />&nbsp; <br />This is the 59th consecutive quarter Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s Board of Directors has voted to declare a dividend to shareholders. ','2013-01-13 22:31:06',229,3,1,NULL,NULL,241,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(552,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Crystal Cruises','Stars Of Screen And Stage Headline Crystal&#039;s First ‘Theatre At Sea’ Cruise','crystal_ship_972079389.jpg','2008-05-22 17:44:00','<p>Some of the finest names in the theater and film worlds are joining forces to star in Crystal Cruises\' brand new Theatre at Sea itinerary.&nbsp; Individual artists will perform throughout the 12-day &quot;Italian Treasures&quot; itinerary from Venice to Monte Carlo, departing September 12, 2008, aboard award-winning Crystal Serenity.</p><p>The roster of venerable actors, singers and musicians includes:</p><p>Lynn Redgrave - The Golden Globe-winning actress performs Nightingale, a captivating ancestral story from her five-generation theatrical family;</p><p>Gena Rowlands - The Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning actress presents her latest film, Broken Promises, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival;</p><p>Patricia Neal - The Academy Award-winning actress performs her acclaimed play, As I am, chronicling her remarkable life;</p><p>Lucy Arnaz and Laurence Luckinbill - Performing together, the theatrical duo presents songs from Ms. Arnaz\'s cabaret show and scenes from Mr. Luckinbill\'s plays;</p><p>Florence Henderson - The Brady Bunch star presents An Evening with Florence Henderson, a musical recounting of her stage, screen and television career;</p><p>Susannah York - The Academy Award-nominated actress presents her one-woman show, The Loves of Shakespeare\'s Women; and</p><p>Lee Roy Reams - Critically acclaimed for his Broadway role in The Producers, Mr. Reams presents a musical journey through the works of Jerry Herman, one of Broadway\'s finest composers.</p><p>&quot;The slate of stars performing aboard Crystal\'s first Theatre at Sea cruise exemplifies the caliber of sophisticated cultural experiences that our guests treasure.&quot; says Bret Bullock, the line\'s vice president, entertainment.</p><p>Presented in partnership with the Theatre Guild, the Crystal Serenity itinerary calls in Dubrovnik, Croatia; Taormina, Sorrento, Rome, Florence and Elba, Italy, and ends with an overnight stay in Monte Carlo.&nbsp; Cruise fares start at $4,835 per person, double occupancy.<br />&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-13 22:31:07',247,3,1,NULL,NULL,242,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(535,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Introducing American Safari&#039;s Newest Yacht','111_526448769.jpg','2008-05-18 23:43:00','Cruising Hawaii has always been a bit problematic, especially for travelers seeking a unique experience aboard a luxury ship. Previously, if you wanted to cruise the Hawaiian Islands you were locked into an inter-island itinerary from Norwegian Cruise Lines or a longer journey on another cruise line embarking from a west coast city such as San Diego or Los Angeles. Starting this December, you&rsquo;ll have a new option: the 145-foot, 36-guest <span>Safari Explorer</span>.<br /><br />This yacht is American Safari Cruises&rsquo; first entry into the South Pacific market and it also marks the first mainstream luxury option for cruising the &ldquo;Aloha State.&rdquo; The <span>Safari Explorer</span> and its all-American crew will visit Molokai, Lanai, Lahaina on Maui, the Big Island, and several snorkel/dive sites.<br /><br />The ship will be christened in Seattle on May 23. She&rsquo;ll then sail Alaskan waters this summer before relocating for the seven-day inter-island Hawaiian cruises and charters that will be offered from mid-December through early May.<br /><br />If you&rsquo;ve sailed with SeaDream or Windstar and prefer intimate vessels and attentive service, you&rsquo;ll appreciate American Safari. If you prefer your cruise ship to have a formal dress code, Broadway-style shows, and a casino, this option is not for you.<br /><br />Instead, the American Safari experience is all about the destination and active exploration of secluded coves and bays, quaint harbors, and tiny villages. Each itinerary, on the waters less traveled, focuses on hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Due to the yacht&rsquo;s size, it can sail where other boats can&rsquo;t&mdash;offering unique experiences not to be duplicated on any cruise ship currently sailing the Hawaiian Islands. Two certified naturalists sail on each voyage and immerse guests in an engaging tour of the indigenous flora and fauna.<br /><br />Yet, you won&rsquo;t have to give up comfort for close encounters with nature. The <span>Safari Explorer</span> features elegant balcony suites; master bedrooms and Jacuzzi tubs; a wine library for tastings; and a spa offering complimentary massages from a licensed masseuse, sauna, yoga classes, exercise equipment, and an on-deck hot tub. Attentive service is the order of the day, with a guest-to-crew ratio of 2 to 1.<br /><br />American Safari Cruises has three other yachts that carry between 12 and 22 guests in Alaska, Mexico&rsquo;s Sea of Cort&eacute;s, the Pacific Northwest, and the Columbia and Snake rivers.<br /><br /><br /><span>Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises</span>','2011-01-02 10:52:41',210,1,-1,'introducing_american_safari_s_newest',NULL,226,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'42a17478476c7355adc3b22dcb8a86c3','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(536,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Regent’s Autumn Sojourn in the Med to Focus on Music, Food &amp; Wine','VOY_Monte_Carlo_low_394080967.jpg','2008-05-15 02:02:00','<p>On October 18, 2008, 700 guests will embark from Istanbul, Turkey for a 28-night &ldquo;Autumn Sojourn in the Mediterranean&rdquo; aboard Regent&rsquo;s Seven Seas Voyager. The ship will journey to the French and Italian Rivieras, the Cote D&rsquo;Azur, and the Greek islands.</p><p>&ldquo;For guests who love to cruise, these longer voyages evoke the romance of ocean travel,&rdquo; said Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. &ldquo;At the same time, they provide a rare opportunity to explore an extraordinary number of exciting Mediterranean ports.&rdquo;</p><p>The Sojourn may be booked as one single journey or in three segments. Each segment will feature a unique event, a variety of entertainment options focusing on classical music, and an in-depth focus on the cuisine of the region.</p><p>Of special note: Regent has announced that guests will have an opportunity to purchase Euros at a 1:1 exchange rate against the U.S. dollar, and experience complimentary events on board and ashore.</p><p>The individual segments are as follows:</p><p>Executive Vice President&rsquo;s Cruise, Istanbul to Piraeus (October 18 to 25)<br />Kenneth Watson, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Regent Seven Seas, will host the seven-night Greek Isles journey beginning with an overnight stay in Istanbul and proceeding to Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, and Nafplio in Greece and Kusadasi, Turkey. At Ephesus, the ancient Anatolian city that is today one of the world&rsquo;s most famous archaeological sites, guests will enjoy a concert by the Izmir Chamber Orchestra, featuring Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart and Brahms. Per-person fares start at $4,995.</p><p>Three Song of Flower Captains&rsquo; Cruise, Piraeus to Monte Carlo (October 25 to November 5)<br />In addition to being Regent Seven Seas captains, Dag Dvergastein, Knut Hanssen, and Jarle Jensen have another thing in common&mdash;all three were previously masters of the iconic luxury ship Song of Flower, once part of the fleet of Regent Seven Seas predecessor Radisson Seven Seas Cruises. Sailing across the Mediterranean from the Greek Isles to the French and Italian Rivieras, the voyage will call at Kusadasi and Marmaris in Turkey; Iraklio, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Ajaccio, Corsica; and Naxos, Sorrento, Civitavecchia, and Livorno in Italy before concluding in Monte Carlo. The three captains will host a series of special events for guests and will be joined by former Song of Flower staff members, including cruise director J.J., shore excursion manager Helen Harrison, and maitre d&rsquo;hotel Patrick Lescoute. Another highlight of the voyage is an exclusive concert at Valletta&rsquo;s Manoel Theater. Per-person rates start at $6,850.</p><p>President&rsquo;s Cruise, Monte Carlo to Civitavecchia (November 5 to 15)<br />Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will host this 10-night voyage into antiquity, accompanying guests as they travel from Monte Carlo to Portofino and Livorno, Italy; Marseilles, France; Barcelona, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, and Menorca, Spain; and Ajaccio, Corsica. Guests are invited to an after-hours private tour of the Picasso Museum in Barcelona. Other highlights include a complimentary organ concert at Palma de Mallorca&rsquo;s Cathedral. Per-person rates start at $5,995.</p><p>Guests who purchase individual segments will enjoy one complimentary special event and benefits including free Economy or Business Class air (or $1,000/$3,000 cruise credit, respectively), depending on suite category purchased, plus the option to purchase up to 200 Euros per suite at a 1:1 exchange rate.</p><p>Guests who opt for the full 28-night voyage receive two-for-one pricing, free Business Class air (or $3,000 cruise credit), special shipboard events, and a commemorative gift. These guests will also have the option to purchase up to 800 Euros per suite from Regent Seven Seas at a 1:1 exchange rate. Per-person prices for the 28-night voyage range from $14,495 to $44,543.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Photo courtesy of Regent Seven Seas</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 18:10:49',294,1,-1,'regent_s_autumn_sojourn_in',NULL,227,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'2bbc71ea54fa1e2c72271affd909cc5c','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(537,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','New &quot;Mind, Body &amp; Spirit&quot; Cruises from Crystal','Crystal_Cruises_Yoga2_118604766.jpg','2008-05-13 10:09:00','<p>Crystal Cruises has long focused on healthy options for its passengers, but the line is now introducing two new &ldquo;Mind, Body &amp; Spirit&rdquo; cruises this December. The program will include lectures, classes, and workshops given by experts from The Cleveland Institute, Tai Chi Cultural Institute, and the line\'s exclusive Walk on Water program. The Mind, Body &amp; Spirit focus is set for Crystal Symphony\'s December 7 South America voyage from Los Angeles to Valparaiso, Chile and Crystal Serenity\'s December 12 Panama Canal cruise from Caldera, Costa Rica to Miami.</p><p>&quot;Our guests are active and inquisitive individuals looking to continue their healthy lifestyles while on vacation,&quot; says Thomas Mazloum, Crystal\'s vice president, hotel operations. &quot;The sophisticated programming on the Mind, Body &amp; Spirit cruises allows them to learn about the latest developments in health, fitness and well-being from top experts.&quot;</p><p>The guest experts will cover topics from medical treatment and prevention, to spiritual healing and growth through tai chi and yoga, to the physical and mental fulfillment of strenuous exercise. They include:</p><p>Crystal Symphony&mdash;&quot;South American Sojourn&rdquo;</p><p>* Donald Malone, M.D. &mdash;The Cleveland Clinic instructor and staff psychiatrist will speak about wellness in relation to mind, body and spirit;</p><p>* John McMichan, M.D.&mdash;Mayo Clinic staff physician specializing in Critical Care Medicine, Anesthesiology and Medical Education;</p><p>* Dr. Martin Lee and Emily Lee&mdash;Dr. Lee, a Stanford University physicist and his wife founded the Tai Chi Cultural Center in 1974, utilizing a pioneering approach to understand Tai Chi, health and the self;</p><p>* Debbie Rocker&mdash;Founder of Crystal\'s exclusive Walk on Water program featuring the WALKVEST Training System, revolutionizing walking by adding weight resistance;</p><p>* Richard Deutsch&mdash;Author of One Best Hike: Yosemite\'s Half Dome, Deutsch has inhabited every continent, hiking his way through some of the most challenging areas of the world; and</p><p>* Cathy L. Greenberg, PhD&mdash;Dr. Greenberg delivers time-tested &quot;happiness tips&quot; and is the author What Happy Women Know, What Happy Companies Know; What Happy Parents Know and What Happy Leaders Know.</p><p><br />Crystal Serenity&mdash;&quot;Caribbean Jewels&quot;</p><p><br />* Jim Karras&mdash;Author of the bestseller The Business Plan for the Body Karras is also a fitness contributor on ABC\'s Good Morning America;</p><p>* Leslie Cho, M.D.&mdash;Director of The Cleveland Clinic\'s Women\'s cardiovascular center, Cho specializes in heart disease in women;</p><p>* Sandra Shaner&mdash;Certified by the Yoga Institute and a Registered Yoga Teacher with the Yoga Alliance, Shaner has been teaching yoga for more than 10 years;</p><p>* Mollie Epstein&mdash;Epstein oversees Crystal\'s exclusive Walk on Water program featuring The WALKVEST(r) Training System; and</p><p>&bull; Jeff Corbett&mdash;Corbett, a member of the Tai Chi Cultural Center will conduct workshops utilizing Dr. Lee and Emily Lee\'s unique approach to the art.</p><p>Shoreside, Crystal is offering several opportunities for guests to expand their healthful horizons with Crystal Adventures shore excursions catering to its wellness-minded guests. A kayaking Eco-Adventure in Cabo San Lucas, a hike through Caldera\'s tropical rainforest, and &quot;power&quot; snorkeling in Grand Turk all challenge the body and mind, while a day\'s retreat to a tranquil resort and spa in St. Barts soothes the soul.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-10 04:55:07',175,1,-1,'new_quot_mind_body_amp',NULL,228,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'a14b7635b5f53e40cbdc6fe0ca67a0a9','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(734,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Celebrity Cruises','Stars Shine with Celebrity Cruises: “Soap Cruise” to set Sail on Celebrity Century','pool_623437705.jpg','2008-07-29 23:25:00','<p>Miami - (July 28, 2008 ) - Cruise enthusiasts who enjoy the intrigue, drama and romance of daytime TV&rsquo;s most popular soap operas &ndash; and the actors who star in them &ndash; are likely to find the vacation of their dreams in &ldquo;Soap Cruise,&rdquo; which will be held on Celebrity Century in 2009.</p><p>Soap Cruise &ndash; the second voyage of its kind &ndash; will pair Celebrity&rsquo;s Star TreatmentSM with exclusive activities allowing guests who have purchased the Soap Cruise package the opportunity to directly interact with 16 of the hottest actors on all eight of daytime TV&rsquo;s top shows. The activities will include autograph and photo sessions, soap opera trivia games, an elite cocktail party with the stars, and other special events, including the opportunity to write a script and act it out with one of the stars.</p><p>Hosting Soap Cruise will be Cameron Mathison, who plays &ldquo;Ryan&rdquo; on All My Children, and has appeared on Dancing with the Stars. Mathison will be joined on Celebrity Century by fellow All My Children actors Alicia Minshew (&rdquo;Kendall&rdquo;) and Jacob Young (&rdquo;J.R.&rdquo;); Austin Peck (&rdquo;Brad&rdquo;) from As the World Turns; Brandon Beemer (&rdquo;Owen&rdquo;) of The Bold and the Beautiful and formerly &ldquo;Shawn&rdquo; on Days of Our Lives; Winsor Harmon (&rdquo;Thorne&rdquo;) and Lesli Kay (&rdquo;Felicia&rdquo;) of The Bold and the Beautiful; Nadia Bjorlin (&rdquo;Chloe&rdquo;) and Jay Johnson (&rdquo;Philip&rdquo;) of Days of Our Lives; Bradford Anderson (&rdquo;Spinelli&rdquo;) and Greg Vaughn (&rdquo;Lucky&rdquo;) from General Hospital; Murray Bartlett (&rdquo;Cyrus&rdquo;) and Ricky Paull Goldin (&rdquo;Jake&rdquo;) of All My Children, formerly (&rdquo;Gus&rdquo;) on Guiding Light; Kamar de los Reyes (&rdquo;Antonio&rdquo;) on One Life to Live; and Don Diamont (&rdquo;Brad&rdquo;) and Christian LeBlanc (&rdquo;Michael&rdquo;) of The Young and the Restless.</p><p>The soap stars will mix it up exclusively with guests who have booked the Soap Cruise package on Celebrity Century&rsquo;s January 22 itinerary departing roundtrip from Miami, with visits to Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico. A limited number of staterooms have been reserved for guests interested in experiencing Soap Cruise. For reservations and to view images and video from last year&rsquo;s Soap Cruise, visit Soap Cruise website or call (248) 855-7918. Bookings on Celebrity Century&rsquo;s January 22 itinerary through other avenues will not include access to Soap Cruise activities.</p><p>Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Australia, Canada, Europe and South America. Noted for four of the top 10 &ldquo;Top Cruise Ships in the World,&rdquo; as voted by the readers of Conde&rsquo; Nast Traveler (February 2008 readers&rsquo; poll), Celebrity&rsquo;s current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:17',369,1,1,NULL,NULL,425,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,'Last year&#039;s Soap Cruise Stars from TV&#039;s most popular daytime shows',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(538,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Andrea M. Rotondo','Perfect Hawaiian Honeymoons Aboard Safari Explorer',NULL,'2008-04-15 09:28:00','<div class=\"image\"><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SDGAmjViyII/AAAAAAAAAnw/Z8YZeplrJCw/s1600-h/hawaiian-island-sunset_low.jpg\"><img src=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_A8KVQ3xIXHg/SDGAmjViyII/AAAAAAAAAnw/Z8YZeplrJCw/s400/hawaiian-island-sunset_low.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>If you’re planning a honeymoon—or any romantic cruise getaway—check out <a href=\"http://www.amsafari.com\">American Safari Cruises’</a> new Hawaii Honeymoon Package. It’s offered on the line’s soon-to-debut 145-foot, 36-guest yacht <span>Safari Explorer</span>. This is the first luxury ship to offer inter-island Hawaiian cruises. The ship and her all-American crew will visit Molokai, Lanai, Lahaina on Maui, the Big Island, and several snorkel/dive sites. (<a href=\"http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/05/cruising-hawaii-has-always-been-bit.html\">Click here</a> to read another blog entry about the new itineraries.)<br /><br />The romance package includes one of two top-deck balcony suites that feature a living room with a large, flat-screen TV, master bedroom with king-size bed and Tempur-pedic mattress, refrigerator stocked with the couple’s favorite beverages, and bathroom with heated tile floors and Jacuzzi tub. The couple will also receive a private helicopter tour of Volcanoes National Park (other guests will fly with up to five others), and be feted at a honeymoon celebration one night at dinner.<br /><br />The couple will be welcomed with Dom Perignon champagne on ice; a platter of chocolate-covered strawberries, fine cheeses, and grapes; a rose-petal strewn bed; and two personalized keepsake pillows. They will have first choice of complimentary massage appointments, and their preferred wines will be stocked in the yacht’s wine library.<br /><br />The Honeymoon Package begins at $7,395 per person and includes from-yacht activities, shore excursions, private transfers, and complimentary premium spirits and fine wines.<br /><br />For more information, call your travel agent or contact <a href=\"http://www.amsafari.com\">American Safari Cruises</a> at (888) 862-8881.<br /><br /><span\"font-size:85%;\"><span>Photo courtesy of American Safari Cruises</span></span>','2010-01-30 04:46:21',4,2,-1,'perfect_hawaiian_honeymoons_aboard_safari','http://luxurycruisebible.blogspot.com/2008/04/perfect-hawaiian-honeymoons-aboard.html',229,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'3d6f026169daa1253caf104cc4e58d08','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(554,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','P&amp;O Cruises Extends Smoking Ban','12345_377185500.jpg','2008-05-23 11:56:00','<p align=\"left\">P&amp;O Cruises Australia has extended its ban on smoking to include all indoor areas on its ships from July 2008. </p><p align=\"left\">Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia which operates P&amp;O Cruises, said the move reflected changing social trends and customer feedback, as well as the company&rsquo;s ongoing commitment to the safety and comfort of its passengers and crew. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;The majority of P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; passengers have indicated they&rsquo;d prefer to cruise in a smoke-free environment,&quot; Ms Sherry said. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;Clearly there&rsquo;s been a shift in community thinking on this issue and we&rsquo;re keeping pace with that.&quot; </p><p align=\"left\">Ms Sherry said the decision extended the company&rsquo;s existing policy, which bans smoking in cabins, suites, private balconies, dining rooms, food service areas, show lounges, theatres and the casino. </p><p align=\"left\">Following the latest move, smoking will now only be permitted in specified outdoors areas on P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; ships. </p><p align=\"left\">The changes will take effect in July on both Pacific Dawn and Pacific Sun.</p>','2013-01-19 23:56:22',274,1,1,NULL,NULL,244,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(555,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Princess Cruises Showcases &quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; with Unique Video Production','news_photo_news_917885743.jpg','2008-05-23 11:59:00','<p><span class=\"bold\"></span><br />SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 22, 2008) - <em>&quot;We are so lucky that we have Alaska ... everything is different here - it is all so unique.&quot; </em>This view from Denali National Park Ranger Patrick Gamman is one of 12 Alaska voices featured in &quot;The Heart of Alaska,&quot; a dramatic new video produced by Princess Cruises. This production has already received widespread praise from the film and travel communities, and has been honored with acceptance into two film festivals. </p><p>Shot exclusively by Princess in high-definition format to showcase the Princess cruisetour experience, &quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; beautifully depicts the land, wildlife and people of Alaska, with interviews from some of the people who make the state unique, and who tell a compelling story of life in the untamed wilderness of Alaska\'s interior. </p><p>Available exclusively from Princess, the 26-minute film was photographed and directed by Princess Video Editor Scott Martin. Filmed over nine days last summer in Alaska, the production was coordinated by Becky Buxton, manager of Princess Tours in Alaska. The video will be shown on board Princess ships in Alaska and can be purchased on the ships and at Princess\' five Alaska wilderness lodges. &quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; is the first of a series of Princess videos taking a unique look at many of the company\'s destinations. </p><p>&quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; has been accepted into the First Take Film Festival and the prestigious New York Independent Film &amp; Video Festival, where it will compete this summer in the best documentary category. </p><p>&quot;We wanted to create something that really captures the spirit of this extraordinary destination - particularly the diverse people who make the state so unique,&quot; said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. &quot;This is a unique production for us - it not only gives our guests a stunning look at so many aspects of this amazing place, it does so in brilliant high definition. We believe that this new view of the Great Land easily outshines the quality of the traditional Alaska travelogue.&quot; </p><p>The documentary offers a unique introduction to the wonders of the state as it is seen through the eyes of Alaskans. Viewers will meet rangers from both Denali and Wrangell St. Elias National Parks, Alaska natives, homesteaders and dog mushers who share an insiders\' perspective of life in the 49th state. Other voices include a bush pilot, a captain from Fairbanks\' iconic riverboat and a mountain climber. </p><p>The film also brings the audience up close to the wildlife of Denali National Park, including bears, moose, dall sheep, and caribou. Soaring photography takes viewers high above the world\'s tallest peaks, including \'The Great One,\' Mt. McKinley. </p><p>&quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; tells its story through many Alaskan voices, each with a unique perspective on life in the state. Among the observations shared on screen are: </p><p><em>&quot;Being Alaskan to me means being connected to everything around you. My dad had always told me that people live the way the land tells them to - they follow the rhythm of the waters that they\'re nearest.&quot; </em>- Alaska Native Quentin Simeon. </p><p><em>&quot;We have glaciers the size of states - the Malaspina Glacier is the size of Rhode Island&quot; </em>- Wrangell St. Elias National Park Ranger Kelly L. Vandenberg. </p><p><em>&quot;It is quite a humbling place because we quickly realize just how small we are in the scheme of things&quot; </em>- Mountain Climbing Guide Laurent Dick. </p><p><em>&quot;People here do what they do - they don\'t retire. They have a lifestyle and they live it to their last day&quot; </em>- Homesteader Janel Porterfield. </p><p><em>&quot;They teach me something constantly. No two days are alike when you live with 18 dogs&quot; </em>- Musher John C. Fowler. </p><p><em>&quot;Still today when I see a moose alongside the road, I have to stop and look at it myself as if it\'s the first one I ever saw&quot;</em> - Wildlife Conservation Center Executive Director Mike Miller. </p><p>&quot;The Heart of Alaska&quot; video also includes special features on the Princess cruisetour program, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Inside Denali, and trailers for the Heart of Alaska.</p>','2013-01-24 14:17:29',262,1,1,NULL,NULL,245,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Viewers Can Explore &quot;The Great Land&quot; through the Eyes of Diverse Group of Local Residents',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(556,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Royal Caribbean Announces Names for Newest Class of Ships','royyyyyy_691717300.jpg','2008-05-23 12:33:00','MIAMI (AP) - Royal Caribbean International has announced the names of its newest class of cruise ships.<br /><br />The Miami-based cruise operator said Friday that Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas were chosen in a &quot;Name that Ship&quot; contest. The names were submitted by George Weiser, of Livonia, Mich.<br /><br />Oasis of the Seas will hold 5,400 passengers. It\'s expected to be the largest cruise ship in the world measuring 220,000 gross tons. Its launch date is set for late 2009 and will dock at Port Everglades.<br /><br />Allure of the Seas will launch in 2010.<br /><br />Both are part of the brand\'s &quot;Project Genesis.&quot;','2013-01-19 23:54:23',212,1,1,NULL,NULL,246,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(557,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Royal Caribbean Cruises shares hit new year low','12_539320744.jpg','2008-05-24 19:12:00','<div class=\"ar\">NEW YORK (AP) -- Shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. slumped to a new 52-week low Friday as a Goldman Sachs analyst removed the cruise operator from his &quot;Conviction Buy&quot; list, citing escalating fuel prices. <p>Analyst Steven Kent swapped out Royal Caribbean Cruises for Las Vegas Sands Corp., predicting energy prices will remain high for some time. </p><p>The cruise industry has continued to battle rising fuel costs, with both Royal and Carnival Corp. implementing fuel surcharges to help alleviate some of the burden. </p><p>The analyst reaffirmed Royal Caribbean\'s &quot;Buy&quot; rating. </p><p>Separately, a Morgan Stanley analyst downgraded Royal Caribbean to &quot;Equal Weight&quot; from &quot;Overweight.&quot; </p><p>Shares of Miami-based Royal Caribbean Cruises fell $1.25, or 4.4 percent, to $27.23. The stock hit a new low of $26.88 earlier in the session.</p></div>','2013-01-19 23:55:16',272,1,1,NULL,NULL,247,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Royal Caribbean Cruises hits new year low after removal from Goldman&#039;s &#039;Conviction Buy&#039; list ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(558,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jay Weaver, Miami Herald','Cruise line fined $1M in blast that killed 8','norwaysmitwijs_230782225.jpg','2008-05-24 19:13:00','<p>A federal judge on Wednesday ordered Norwegian Cruise Line to pay a $1 million fine after the company pleaded guilty to gross negligence in court -- five years after a boiler explosion on the historic SS Norway killed eight crew members and seriously injured 10 others in the Port of Miami.</p><p>U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno also ordered Norwegian to pay $13.75 million preliminary restitution to the victims and set a June 20 hearing to consider related issues.</p><p>The U.S. attorney\'s office said the Miami-based cruise line admitted in the criminal plea agreement that it operated the vessel in a ``grossly negligent manner that endangered the lives, limbs and property of the persons on board.\'\'</p><p>A National Transportation Safety Board report on the May 25, 2003, accident, showed Norwegian Cruise engineers had expressed concerns since the late 1990s about the condition of the four boilers that powered the elegant ship.</p><p>The high-pressure boilers, each holding 20 tons of 528-degree water, had a history of cracks, leaks, corrosion and repairs. In a plea agreement, Norwegian Cruise admitted it had failed to insure that proper inspections, maintenance and repairs of the boilers were carried out.</p><font color=\"#000000\"></font>','2013-01-19 23:52:53',254,1,1,NULL,NULL,248,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(559,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Joel Marino, South Florida Sun-Sentinel','Victims of Miami cruise ship explosion awarded $13 million','127274299_32a8259bc0_625846335.jpg','2008-05-24 19:21:00','<div id=\"story-body-parent\"><p id=\"story-body\">A federal judge in Miami ruled Wednesday that Norwegian Cruise Line must pay more than $13 million to the victims of a 2003 boiler explosion aboard one of its ships that killed eight workers and injured 10 others.<br /><br />Judge Federico Moreno also levied a $1 million fine against the Miami-based cruise line.<br /><br />A follow-up hearing will be held in June to consider additional restitution issues.<br /><br />The ruling was handed down just four days before the explosion\'s fifth anniversary. One of four boilers exploded on the 1,035-foot ship SS<em> Norway</em> as it docked in the Port of Miami-Dade on May 25. Most of the dead and injured were Filipino workers. The explosion sent debris and a blast of steam through parts of the 43-year-old ship, once the world\'s largest passenger vessel. None of the passengers was injured.</p></div><!-- END topix links --><!-- END rail --><div id=\"story-body-parent2\"><p id=\"story-body2\">All the dead suffered severe burns from the superheated steam and oil that burst from the ruptured boiler, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner\'s Office ruled at the time.<br /><br />The company agreed to plead guilty earlier this month to a charge of gross negligence, the U.S. Attorney\'s Office said.<br /><br />The company admitted it had &quot;failed to insure that proper inspections, maintenance, and repairs of boiler components were carried out,&quot; according to a U.S. Attorney\'s Office news release.<br /><br />A preliminary report released in 2005 by the National Transportation Safety Board said the ship had a history of cracks on its boilers dating to the 1970s.<br /><br />The vessel is now in India, where it is being dismantled for scrap, the U.S. Attorney\'s Office said.<br /><br />The Associated Press contributed to this report.</p></div>','2013-01-19 23:54:02',547,1,1,NULL,NULL,249,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(543,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Celebrity Cruises first voyages to Antarctica','antarctica_218016866.jpg','2008-05-20 21:26:00','<p>Celebrity Cruises is fast approaching their 10<sup>th</sup> consecutive season in South America and to celebrate they will be offering their first ever Antarctica cruise.<span> </span>Celebrity Infinity, a 2,050 guest superliner, will sail eight South America itineraries in late 2009 and early 2010, calling in at 26 ports in 13 countries.</p><br />Whilst cruising in Antarctica guests onboard Celebrity Infinity will be able to see the breathtaking glaciers, rare wildlife and other wonders of nature during 3 days of serenely cruising past Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Gerlache Strait.<span> </span>The itineraries will also include voyages through Cape Horn and feature calls at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, Ushuaia and Puerto Madryn, Argentina and Montevideo, Uruguay. <br />In addition to this Celebrity Cruises have four 14-night sailings between Valparaiso and Buenos Aires throughout December and February 2010.<span> </span>Each of these sailings will include an overnight stay in Buenos Aires. <br />There will be fabulous 15 night voyages on Celebrity Infinity to the Panama Canal and a South America cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Valparaiso on 5 December 2009 and a 14 night return trip from Valparaiso to Fort Lauderdale on 14 March 2010.<span> </span>Included will be stops at Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Lima, Peru; Arica, Chile and other fascinating cities. <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/294947288\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2013-01-19 08:04:59',215,1,-1,'celebrity_cruises_first_voyages_to',NULL,234,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'f4f7cfd935751cfe92ee63b7b0f72297','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(728,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Trade','Oceania Cruises Intros 2009 European Collection','123_944354727.jpg','2008-07-26 18:28:00','<span class=\"article_text\">Oceania Cruises has launched its 2009 European Collection brochure, with 56 voyages for cruisers to choose from. In addition, for a limited time, the cruise line has expanded its Free Airfare offer from 20 North American gateways to more than 100 and is offering 2 For 1 cruise fares that begin at $2,299 per guest. <p>Both the expansion of the free airfare and the 2 For 1 promotion expire Aug. 31, 2008. </p><p>The 112-page brochure details the line\'s diverse array of 10- to 28-day itineraries, with voyages to the Greek Isles, Western Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Several overnight port stays are included, with as many as five on one voyage. </p><p>Highlights of the 2009 European Collection are: </p><p>* A new 14-day Egypt and Israel itinerary sails from Barcelona to Istanbul and includes Tunisia, Malta, Greece, Egypt, Israel, Cyprus and Turkey. </p><p>* 5th annual Oceania Club Reunion Cruise departs from Rome on Oct. 5, 2009 for a 12-day cruise visiting ports in five countries. Oceania Club members will be privy to exclusive cocktail parties, members-only lunches and dinners and private shore excursions. </p><p>* The Regatta sails to Norway and the British Isles for the very first time, a 12-day cruise that sails roundtrip from Dover on July 13, 2009. </p></span>','2013-01-20 18:51:22',324,3,1,NULL,NULL,418,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(730,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','MSC Cruises MSC Splendida float out ceremony','float_out_175366009.jpg','2008-07-29 23:15:00','<p>A momentous floating out ceremony took place yesterday at the Aker Yards in St. Nazaire, France. MSC Splendida, the newest addition to the MSC Cruises fleet, was accompanied by a fleet of 8 tugboats at 06:45 when she was floated out. The ceremony lasted about 1 hour and resulted in MSC Cruises MSC Splendida docked half a mile away where she will remain until her construction has been finished.</p><p>MSC Splendida and her sister ship MSC Fantasia will be the largest ships ever built by a European ship company. The two ships will begin a new era for MSC Cruises. Both ships will be 133,500 tonnes and able to accommodate 3,274 guests. </p><p>The introduction of MSC Yacht Club will be an exciting feature, a VIP area with 99 elegant suites, dedicated butlers and communal spaces furnished to the highest standards. MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia will also feature the Aurea Spa, four pools, 12 hydro massage pools, jazz bar, 4D interactive cinema and a children and teenagers area of 400 square metres with a pool, waterslide and disco.</p><p>The countdown to MSC Cruises MSC Fantasia launch has begun with the christening due to be held in Naples on 18 December 2008, MSC Splendida will be christened in Barcelona during summer 2009.</p><p>MSC Cruises are showing a commitment to environmental protection with the introduction of these two new ships as both will use an innovative water treatment process and energy efficient technology. </p>','2013-01-14 22:18:08',198,1,1,NULL,NULL,420,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(731,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Oasis of the Seas set to be &quot;coolest&quot; ship ever with kids','boardwarlk_945883848.jpg','2008-07-29 23:16:00','<p>Royal Caribbean Cruises newest ship currently under construction, Oasis of the Seas, looks set to be a definite success with the kids.</p><p><br />Cruises Mates teen reporter Alex Gaynor has been checking out the amenities on offer on board Oasis of the Seas and reports that Royal Caribbean Cruises new ship will be &ldquo;the coolest thing ever&rdquo; and will appeal to teenagers on a number of levels.</p><p><br />Alex Gaynor has also noted that even areas of Oasis of the Seas that are as yet inaccessible to children still hold much intrigue.</p><p><br />&quot;One of the cool features, which as teens we can\'t use yet, is the rising tide bar. Over time, it ascends and descends between the Promenade and Central Park above it. Even though we\'re underage, it still seems like a cool thing to watch,&quot; she notes.</p><p><br />It seems though the main centre of interest is Boardwalk, one of seven neighbourhood concepts that have been developed by Royal Caribbean Cruises as yet another unique feature of Oasis of the Seas.</p><p><br />There are fabulous child-friendly amenities in the Boardwalk area including eateries such as Johnny Rockets, Seafood Shack, the Boardwalk Donut Shop and Ice Cream Parlour and entertainment in the form of Madame Zahara\'s psychic and tattoo parlour, a carousel and two &quot;huge&quot; rock-climbing walls.</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:38',212,1,1,NULL,NULL,426,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(732,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Silversea Cruises','Silversea in major company restructuring','SilverWhisper_254815082.jpg','2008-07-29 23:20:00','<p>Leading luxury operator Silversea Cruises is currently in the middle of a major company restructuring which is aimed at raising quality aboard its ships as well as exerting closer control over rising costs.&nbsp;</p><p>Industry veteran Christian Sauleau is returning to the company as Executive&nbsp; Vice President, Fleet Operations, V.Ships has been appointed as ship managers, responsible for all technical management, marine operations and crew management, while there is to be a major shake-up in hotel operations, with this department moving from Monaco to Fort Lauderdale.&nbsp;</p><p>Silversea is facing difficulties due to soaring fuel prices, softening US economy (50% of its passengers come from the US), weakening US $ and difficulties recruiting and retaining quality staff.</p><p>The company is currently in the middle of a $500m investment programme which involves the building of the 36,000grt Silver Spirit in Italy, major refits to Silver Wind and Silver Cloud, and the purchase and conversion of the company&rsquo;s first expedition cruise vessel, Prince Albert II (ex World Discoverer). No decision has yet been taken on Silversea&rsquo;s options for a second newbuilding at Fincantieri.&nbsp; </p><p>One of V.Ships first tasks is to carry out an in-depth technical analysis of the Silversea fleet aimed at reducing costs and optimising ship performance.&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Senior Vice President, Fleet Operations, Rocco Auteri and Vice President, Hotel Operations, Silvio Rossi, have left the company.</p>','2013-01-23 04:15:00',307,1,1,NULL,NULL,421,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(733,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Two cruise ships collide in Greece','123_858655573.jpg','2008-07-29 23:22:00','<p>Remember the Celebrity Zenith? The much-beloved, 1,378-passenger vessel, well known among American cruisers before it was transferred to Spanish line Pullmantur in 2006, was involved in a collision this morning in the Greek port of Piraeus. </p><p>The Associated Press reports that the 16-year-old ship ran into another Europe-based cruise ship, the Greek-flagged Aegean Pearl, while in the harbor. </p><p>Nobody was injured in the accident, but Greek authorities are not allowing the ships to sail until they can assess the damage to the vessels.</p><p>The 16,700-ton Aegean Pearl, operated by Louis Cruise Lines, had been due to leave Piraeus this morning for a cruise to Turkey and the Greek islands. The 47,000-ton Zenith had just arrived in Piraeus on a cruise that started from Venice, Italy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:52:42',207,1,1,NULL,NULL,422,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(561,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Mike Heard, The Sydney Morning Herald','Babies grounded from Royal Caribbean','2305_sat_cruising_wideweb__470x301_0_787304605.jpg','2008-05-25 22:07:00','<p><strong>Some of the youngest cruise passengers are about to be grounded.</strong></p><p>Royal Caribbean, the world\'s second-biggest line, has decided that it will no longer carry babies under six months.</p><p>On some longer sailings, children will have to be at least a year old. The ruling takes effect in October.</p><p>Royal Caribbean says it introduced the rule because it believed the needs of sick infants can sometimes be met only by a hospital on shore.</p><p>It comes soon after an incident in April, when a family had to disembark halfway through a cruise when medical staff on a Royal Caribbean ship decided a sick seven-month-old needed treatment on shore. The world\'s biggest cruise line, Carnival, has the same age restriction.</p><p><strong>Quebec bound</strong></p><p>Australians will get a chance to take the helm during tall-ship sailings along Canada\'s St Lawrence River next year. Scenic Tours is introducing six-night voyages aboard a 75-metre square-rigged barquentine, the Caledonia.</p><p>The biggest sailing ship built in Canada in the past 100 years, with a sail area of about 4000 square metres, the vessel carries 80 passengers in 31 cabins with queen-sized berths, toilets and showers. It is air-conditioned and has a library, a pub and a dining room.</p><p>Round-trip sailings, from Quebec City, take in a part of the St Lawrence frequented by whales and porpoises, and known for historic French settlements.</p><p>The voyages are part of a 17-day itinerary Scenic is introducing next year in response to growing demand for tours of eastern Canada.</p><p>The total package, including return air travel from Australia, costs from $10,095 from Sydney and $10,195 from Melbourne after early bird discounts of up to $800 a couple if booked by August 31: these apply to departures on May 31, June 20 and June 28 next year. For details phone 1300 723 642.</p><p><strong>Setting course for NZ</strong></p><p>Demand in Australia for cruises to New Zealand is so strong that Princess Cruises is going to double the number of trans-Tasman summer sailings.</p><p>Having already scheduled seven 13-night voyages for next summer, the line has just announced a total of 13 round-trip sailings aboard Sun Princess and Dawn Princess from Sydney and Melbourne during the 2009-10 season.</p><p>And despite increases in oil prices, fares will be lower, starting at $2796 a person.</p><p>The starting price for the coming summer is $2865.</p><p>Princess boss Ann Sherry says the line is experiencing &quot;unprecedented&quot; interest in its trans-Tasman itineraries.</p><p>Voyages take in New Zealand\'s Fiordland region and the ports of Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and Auckland.</p><p>And Princess is including Newcastle in its round-Australia voyages for the first time in 2009-10.</p><p>Sun Princess will call there on October 18, 2009 and Dawn Princess on December 10, 2009 and March 7, 2010.</p><p>It will be one of 13 ports on the month-long sailings. Fares start at $5535 a person twin-share.</p><p><strong>Reining in teen spending</strong></p><p>Relief is in sight for parents who have difficulty keeping track of how much their children are spending on shipboard extras during a family cruise.</p><p>The European line MSC Cruises has introduced pre-paid Teen Cards for passengers aged 12 to 17.</p><p>The cards, which cost EUR30 and EUR50 and double as cabin keys, can be used to buy soft drinks and gift-shop items.</p><p>MSC says that the concept recognises the need for teens to have a degree of independence, at the same time as learning to manage their finances.</p>','2013-01-19 23:59:51',396,1,1,NULL,NULL,251,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,'Royal Carribean has decided that it will no longer carry babies under six months',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(562,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','The Bahama Journal','$22M In Tourism Earnings Forecast','11_972730353.jpg','2008-05-25 22:12:00','Minister Neko Grant said NCL is set to bring more than 100,000 tourists to The Bahamas, and 40,000 to Grand Bahama alone, each year starting in July 2008.<br /><br />NCL officials are in Grand Bahama this week, reaffirming the lines commitment as it is repositioning the 1,900-passenger Norwegian Sky to provide three and four day-cruises to The Bahamas. <br /><br />The all-Bahamas itinerary will feature twice-weekly calls on Nassau, Great Sturrup Cay and a once-weekly call on Grand Bahama Island. \'The Bahamas is now in a position to earn between July 2008 and December 2009 some $22 million dollars in terms of passenger spend, with Sky generating almost 50 per cent of this amount,\' said Mr. Grant at a press briefing at the Lucayan Harbour. \'Increasing passenger spend will only happen if we do our jobs well. This includes the need to provide more authentic Bahamian experiences as well as a critical requirement for improved service standards in our resorts, our restaurants, our shops, our taxis and our bus systems,\' he said. He said that Government Head Tax projections from the Norwegian Sky is expected to be in the region of $7.98 million over the one year period, total Head Tax projections from all NCL ships visiting The Bahamas inclusive of Grand Bahama over the next year and a half is estimated at $21.49 million. \'I am pleased to report that a minimum of 42 calls are expected to Grand Bahama Island over the course of the next year. It is expected that the Norwegian Sky will make 21 calls here by the end of this year, an average of one per week delivering at least 39,900 passengers,\' advised Mr. Grant, who said that this would be a tremendous boost to the Grand Bahama economy.<br /><br />He said that the average passenger spend in the region is $100 per person compared with $57.50 per passenger in The Bahamas. \'Thats a difference of $42.50 per passenger or some $3.76 million we are leaving on the table. Thats the kind of money we are talking about. If we were to increase passenger spend on shore from $57.50 per person on average to $100 per person, the regional average, total spend on GBI would jump from $5.09 million to $8.86 million over the July 08 to December 09 period,\' the minister said. He said that the Ministry of Tourism has a lot of work to do, including revamping existing tourist offerings and increasing the variety and quality of on-shore excursions available to arriving cruise passengers, as well as increasing the variety of authentically \'Grand\' Bahamian gifts and souvenirs. \'Our research shows that approximately 25 to 26 per cent of Norwegian Cruise Lines GBI passengers actually purchase onshore tours compared to 36 per cent in New Providence. In Orlando, Florida some 50 to 60 per cent of the cruise passengers pre-purchase tours on board,\' he revealed. \'The point is that there is much room for growth in this area on GBI. The opportunity for expansion of existing and new tours is exciting and the revenue potential is enormous.\' He said that of the forty destination activities and tours currently offered on Grand Bahama Island, twenty-two are sold in advance to passengers onboard the cruise vessels arriving weekly. \'Todays visitors are more discerning. They are looking for new and exciting experiences in a friendly, safe environment, which offers a variety of soft adventures and interesting attractions, at reasonable prices and, given the current economic environment, the closer to home, the better,\' said Mr. Grant. \'My ministrys goal for this sector is to deliver a satisfying and sustainable destination experience for cruise passengers, and sustainable relationships with the cruise industry which will result in increased calls and on-island spend per cruise passenger,\' he said. He said that Grand Bahama has embraced what is called Community Tourism, which will give visitors a more authentic experiences, island-wide. <br /><br />New onshore attractions will be available in July in the settlements of Lewis Yard, Pinders Point, Hawksbill Creek, Eight Mile Rock and Holmes Rock. \'This is what Community Tourism must be about, allowing our visitors to experience first hand the historic, cultural and interesting attractions where they exist in the heart of our settlements and communities,\' said Mr. Grant. He urged Grand Bahamians to be more hospitable to the visitors to Grand Bahama, noting that they have allowed passengers to leave with money in their pockets that they want to spend on the island. \'We may not be in control of global events that are daily increasing the cost of doing business worldwide. But we are responsible for how we treat our visitors. We must not allow the competition to beat us on the provision of quality service. This is an area we can improve,\' he said. \'My challenge to you all is, to work on elevating service levels. This is what will convert cruise ship visitors to repeat overnight guests and put more heads in beds on GBI,\' he said.More than $22 million is set to be pumped into The Bahamas tourism industry over the next year and a half, and according to the Minister of Tourism that money will come from increased passenger spend and from head tax on passengers aboard the Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL).','2013-01-19 23:53:32',238,1,1,NULL,NULL,252,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(549,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Holland America Line’s ms Eurodam to Offer Private Cabanas','eurodam_342490027.jpg','2008-05-10 21:06:00','<div class=\"image\"><a href=\"http://bp3.blogger.com/_7TPKylZpuM4/SCbHMCx_kKI/AAAAAAAAALs/gnPURZZ64wQ/s1600-h/eurodam.jpg\"></a></div><span>Holland America Line will be offering guests the chance to really enjoy the outdoors whilst cruising on their new ms Eurodam, the lines first Signature class ship, with a haven of private cabanas on the Observation and Lido decks.</span> <span><br />The airy tented cabanas will be located in an area called the Retreat on the Observation deck and around the pool on the Lido deck.<span> </span>There will be modern woven chaises, ottomans and upholstered settees for guests to relax on, plus a stock of bathrobes and plush towels.<span> </span>There will even me Evian spray misters and iPods preloaded with a selection of music.</span> <span><br />There will be 14 cabanas offering guests the chance to relax in a spa-like private area where they can enjoy chilled water, iced fruit skewers, frozen grapes, chocolate covered strawberries, or a glass of champagne.<span> </span>Light breakfast options will be available as well, from fresh fruit, salads, wraps and juices.</span> <span></span><br />Discounted select services from the Greenhouse Spa and Salon are available on port days to guests who book the cabanas. The cabanas may be rented for the day or for an entire cruise.<span> </span><br />Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Eurodam will debut this summer, with a 1 July naming ceremony in Rotterdam with Her Majestic Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, followed by her maiden voyage in the Baltic region. The 2,104-guest Eurodam will offer its first trans-Atlantic cruise and sail Canada/New England in the autumn, followed by Caribbean itineraries the remainder of 2008.<span></span> <img src=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/JetlineCruiseNews/~4/287985104\" border=\"0\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" />','2013-01-18 05:52:55',300,2,-1,'holland_america_line_s_ms',NULL,240,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,'9b3ec1f3b2cd416e63353e7715bc0dbb','0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),