(705,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Regent Seven Seas','Regent Seven Seas Cruises Introduces Enhanced Past Guest Amenities','123_454114658.jpg','2008-07-17 02:36:00','<p>Fort Lauderdale - Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering new enhanced insurance coverage - along with several other benefits - to members of its Seven Seas Society guest loyalty program.</p><p>The Seven Seas Society offers a variety of amenities to repeat Regent Seven Seas Cruises guests based on the number of nights they have sailed aboard any RSSC ship. Under the newest program enhancement, Gold, Platinum and Titanium members (i.e. those guests who have sailed more than 75 nights) who purchase the RegentCare Travel Protection Program will be automatically upgraded to RegentCare Plus, which offers virtually twice the coverage - a $49 per person value.</p><p>Regent Seven Seas Cruises has also launched a variety of enhancements to the amenities provided to guests under the five Seven Seas Society &quot;tiers.&quot; The new tier benefits are as follows:</p><p>Bronze, Four to 20 nights <br />Seven Seas Society cocktail reception <br />Access to Seven Seas Society cruises, including exclusive events ashore <br />Seven Seas Society savings on select sailings <br />Personalized newsletter <br />Access to Online Personal Profile <br />Communications with advanced access to itineraries and special offers <br />Upgrade and referral opportunities on select sailings<br />Silver, 21 to 74 nights - Includes everything from the Bronze tier plus: <br />Complimentary Internet access on board <br />One hour complimentary phone time per suite <br />Complimentary pressing on formal and/or informal nights (up to two items per seven-night cruise segment) <br />Invitation to participate in Seven Seas Society Advisory Board (on select sailings) <br />Invitations to exclusive Regent Seven Seas Cruises events in select cities<br />Gold, 75 to 199 nights - Includes everything from the Bronze and Silver tiers plus: <br />Priority disembarkation at cruise completion in select ports <br />Additional two hours of complimentary phone time per suite <br />Choice of newspaper service from around the world <br />Complimentary pressing of up to two additional items per seven-night cruise segment <br />Complimentary upgrade to hardcover personalized commemorative album at soft cover price on select voyages <br />Exclusive Gold, Platinum and Titanium activity aboard or ashore on every sailing* <br />Priority reservations at restaurants and spas <br />Complimentary upgrade to RegentCare Plus travel insurance when standard package is purchased<br />Platinum, 200 to 399 nights - Includes everything from the Bronze, Silver and Gold tiers plus: </p><p><br />Complimentary air deviation services (one time per sailing) <br />Additional six hours of complimentary phone usage per sailing <br />Complimentary pressing <br />Complimentary laundry services <br />Invitation to Customer Advisory Panel (on select sailings) <br />Titanium, 400 + nights - Includes everything from Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers PLUS the following items: <br />Complimentary transfers to and from your home to the pier (within a 50 mile radius). OR complimentary transfers from the airport to the pier on embarkation and disembarkation day <br />Complimentary dry cleaning<br />*The exclusive activities offered for Gold, Platinum and Titanium members may be combined with special events already incorporated in longer voyages.</p><p>For further information on Regent Seven Seas Cruises and the Seven Seas Society, visit www.RSSC.com/sss</p><p>About Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Regent Seven Seas, a Prestige Cruise Holdings company, 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 &quot;World\'s Best Luxury Cruise Line&quot; for the fourth consecutive year as part of the 2007 Travel Weekly Awards and readers of Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler magazine voted RSSC &quot;World\'s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line&quot; in 2007. For further information, contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334. </p><p>About Prestige Cruise Holdings - Prestige Cruise Holdings (PCH) is a subsidiary of Apollo Management L.P. and the parent corporation of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises. Formed in 2007 to manage select assets in Apollo Management\'s cruise investment portfolio, PCH is led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Del Rio, the founder of Oceania Cruises. PCH is the market leader in the Upper Premium and Luxury segments of the cruise industry with more than 4,450 berths between the Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises brands, a number the company expects will grow to more than 6,700 berths by 2011. <br />&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-17 09:48:39',232,2,1,NULL,NULL,395,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(706,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Earth Times','Holland America Line inaugurates new ship','10092007photo1_939803523.jpg','2008-07-17 02:39:00','<p>The US-based cruise company Holland America Line has taken a new vessel into its fleet in the hope of raising its profile in Europe. The Eurodam has a maximum capacity of 2,104 passengers and is the largest ship in the fleet. It will spend its first summer season calling to ports in northern Europe and the Baltic. </p><p>Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands officially christened the ship at a ceremony on July 2 after which it set sail for Hamburg. It will later call to ports along Germany\'s north coast. </p><p>This is the first time that the Holland America Lines has had a vessel that can accommodate over 2,000 passengers. Until now the Noordam with room for 1,918 guests was its largest ship. </p><p>Together with double cabins there are 110 suites ranging from 28 to 53 square metres in size. </p><p>There are also two penthouse suites each of which is 93 square metres in size. </p><p>Two-thirds of the ship\'s cabins have a veranda of about five square metres each and 85 per cent of all cabins are exterior. </p><p>The Eurodam has two restaurants including an Asian kitchen. Another innovation for the company is a lounge with panoramic view of the sea. </p><p>The ship\'s first season will see it call on Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, St. Petersburg as well as ports in Britain. </p><p>In August, thee Eurodam will embark on its first transatlantic voyage to New York while in the autumn it will ply the waters of the Caribbean. </p><p>&quot;The Eurodam will return to Europe in summer 2009,&quot; says a company spokeswoman. </p><p>The Eurodam cost 285 million euros (447 million dollars) and is the 14th vessel in Holland America Lines\' fleet. By 2010, the company hopes to bring a sister ship in to service. </p><p>This year the company is planning 500 cruises to 314 ports in 97 countries across the globe. One of the areas it specialises in are summer cruises to Alaska. About 80 per cent of passengers are from the United States&nbsp; </p>','2013-01-19 23:54:53',318,1,1,NULL,NULL,396,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0);
INSERT INTO `Articles` VALUES (707,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Dan Billow, WESH Orlando','Legislation Could Protect Cruise Passengers','congress_428304765.jpg','2008-07-17 02:42:00','<p><strong>PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. -- </strong>Congress has been working on a new law to help ensure the safety of passengers on cruise ships.&nbsp;</p><p>The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2008 could help curb crime on the seas and follow through on prosecuting criminals. </p><p>The proposed law would require peepholes and security latches for passengers\' doors, preservation of evidence, records of crimes, deaths, missing persons and proper medical treatment and examination of rape victims, members of Congress said.</p><p>Cruise ship crimes have been on the rise. Passengers said there have been numerous incidents of unpunished sexual assaults and missing persons never searched for. They said that criminal evidence is ignored by ship officers much of the time.</p><p>Also launched into notoriety have been the unsolved cases of George Allen Smith and Ashley Barnett, two now-famous faces of passengers who have perished under suspicious circumstances.</p><p>Officials said it\'s due to a lack of laws and regulations on foreign-flagged ships.</p><p>Members of Congress and victims\' advocates said they accuse the cruise industry of wrongdoing and a lack of concern for passengers. International Cruise Victims President Ken Carver said that cruise lines have zero tolerance for any legislation that would help.</p><p>But a cruise industry spokesman rebutted the admonition, saying, &quot;(Cruise lines) have made great strides in the past two years to improve our procedures and provide more ... care and compassion.&quot;</p><p>Yet 83 sexual assaults have been reported on cruise lines in the past year, authorities said.</p><p>Local prosecutors said the new regulations would make their jobs easier and possibly help passengers feel safer.</p><p>&quot;Because I have two teenagers, I\'ve considered thinking about it,&quot; said Shaquita Howard, a Royal Caribbean passenger. &quot;It\'s always something you have to consider anywhere you go when you go on vacation.&quot;</p><p>The cruise industry has issued no statement on whether it will support or oppose the proposed safety regulations.</p><p>Members of Congress said they may be able to vote on the law by the end of the year.</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:39',278,1,1,NULL,NULL,397,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Congress Works On Legislation To Ensure Safety Of Victims',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(708,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival to Expand Popular ‘Seaside Theatre’ Concept to Five Additional ‘Fun Ships’','freedomlidovideo2_528224924.jpg','2008-07-17 02:48:00','<p>&ldquo;Carnival&rsquo;s Seaside Theatres&rdquo; &mdash; jumbo-sized LED screens currently featured poolside on five Carnival &ldquo;Fun Ships,&rdquo; including the new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor which debuted earlier this month &ndash; will be expanded to an additional five vessels over the next year. </p><p>The massive 270-square-foot screens display a variety of programming, including movies, concerts, news, sporting events and the entertaining &ldquo;Morning Shows&rdquo; which are hosted by the ships&rsquo; respective cruise directors. Additionally, during Carnival&rsquo;s lively deck parties, music videos, along with live shots of the band and party guests, are displayed.&nbsp; </p><p>The first &ldquo;Seaside Theatre&rdquo; debuted aboard the 110,000-ton Carnival Liberty in 2005 and the concept proved so popular with guests that the facilities have been incorporated into all of the line&rsquo;s subsequent new ship projects, including the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream currently under construction and set to debut Sept. 12, 2009. </p><p>The 101,000-ton Carnival Destiny and 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph will also be retrofitted with &ldquo;Seaside Theatres&rdquo; during scheduled dry docks later this year with the 110,000-ton Carnival Conquest and Carnival Glory set to receive the screens next year. </p><p>The 12-foot-high by 22-foot-wide screens utilize the same technology featured in large stadiums and New York&rsquo;s Times Square and can be seen during both the day and evening hours.&nbsp; In addition to superior picture quality, the state-of-the-art entertainment system includes a 70,000-watt sound system, providing concert quality sound, even outdoors. </p>','2013-01-14 22:04:22',335,1,1,NULL,NULL,398,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(709,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Sky Returns To Miami, Sailing Three, Four-Day Bahamas Cruises','1295551621_254ca25cb3_518745890.jpg','2008-07-21 01:24:00','<p>Norwegian Sky returns to Miami and will begin sailing three and four-day Bahamas cruises next Monday, July 14, 2008. The ship recently underwent a two-month wet dock in Freeport, Bahamas and now features a casino and NCL\'s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements*, the company\'s fleet-wide initiative to further improve the guest experience across all guest touch points from food and beverage to staterooms. </p><p>&quot;Norwegian Sky offers guests the youngest and highest quality ship sailing three and four-day cruises from Miami to the Bahamas,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;On Norwegian Sky, guests will find all that Freestyle Cruising has to offer: a variety of accommodations, including balconies and suites, a choice of seven restaurants, a multitude of on-board amenities and our new Freestyle 2.0 enhancements, such as a bubbly welcome, Lobster Galore, new linens and bedding, themed parties and much more.&quot; </p><p>Norwegian Sky\'s first Bahamas cruise departs Miami next Monday and the ship is set to sail four-day Bahamas cruises on Mondays with full-day stops in Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL\'s private island in the Bahamas. On Fridays, the ship sails 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. Fares are from $219 per person for an inside stateroom and from $329 per person for a balcony stateroom. Sailings are currently scheduled through April 17, 2009. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br />Culinary Delights </p><p>Upon embarkation, guests are greeted with NCL\'s new Freestyle 2.0 welcome &quot;bubbly&quot; to celebrate their arrival and are then treated to a \'Taste of Freestyle,\' a sampling of culinary creations from the ship\'s specialty restaurants. </p><p>Norwegian Sky features seven restaurants with all new Freestyle 2.0 menus offering expanded choices. In addition, guests will experience lobster in the main restaurant and in every specialty restaurant. New menu selections include broiled lobster tail, 32-ounce porterhouse and Alaskan king crab legs in Cagney\'s Steakhouse, an NCL guest favorite; and in Le Bistro, NCL\'s signature French restaurant, guests can choose from the C�te de Boeuf, a 32-ounce premium gold angus rib eye steak; Plateau de Fruits de Mar, a cold seafood platter including mussels, lobster tail, shrimp and raw oysters on the half shell; and Cardinal of the Seas, braised lobster tails. In addition, Norwegian Sky also offers culinary experiences in its two dining rooms: Palace and Crossings; Il Adagio, a casual Italian trattoria; the Garden Caf� and Great Outdoors, where NCL chefs cook fresh, prepared-to-order food as guests watch. </p><p>Guests can enjoy sipping cocktails and dancing the night away in nine signature bars and lounges including a martini bar; a sports bar; a champagne bar; two outdoor bars, as well as Dazzles Bar &amp; Night Club. </p><p>Luxurious Accommodations </p><p>Norwegian Sky offers four Owner\'s Suites complete with a private balcony with hot tub, living room, dining room, bedroom, a luxury bath with whirlpool tub and separate shower along with butler and concierge service to cater to the guests ever whim. Ten Penthouses feature a sitting area, private balcony, dining area, separate bedroom with two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed and luxury bath with whirlpool tub and separate shower, along with butler service and concierge service. </p><p>Also on board are NCL\'s latest amenities in balcony, oceanview and inside staterooms including televisions, hair dryers, safes, mini-bars, as well as the new Bliss Collection by NCL bedding, Elemis luxury bathroom amenities and a new, expanded room service menu.</p><p>With Freestyle 2.0, guests staying in a balcony stateroom or above are treated to a customized fruit menu, NCL insignia bathrobes and a warm chocolate chip cookie at turndown on the last night of the cruise. Those staying in an Owner\'s Suite or Penthouse are treated to a complimentary bottle of champagne upon arrival, a pillow menu, the Bliss Bed by NCL, customized daily treats, and exclusive meals in Cagney\'s. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br />Relax and Rejuvenate </p><p>The Body Waves Spa is the perfect place to unwind with unique and exotic spa treatments reflecting the beauty, spirit and traditions of rejuvenation from around the world. Guests will find everything from the traditional to the exotic in spa and salon treatments. </p><p>Guests can get their heart pumping at Body Waves Fitness Center using the state-of-the-art cardiovascular workout equipment while enjoying a view through floor-to-ceiling windows. In addition, aerobics, spinning and exercise classes are available. </p><p>Guests can cool off at two large outdoor swimming pools with sun beds, deck chairs and four hot tubs. Poolside attendants are ready with cold towels and refreshing Evian mists when the temperature rises. </p><p>Rock Around the Clock </p><p>Norwegian Sky features two productions in the Stardust Theater: &quot;South Rockin\' Nights,&quot; a high energy party celebrating the sounds of southern rock, R&amp;B and pure rock \'n roll; and &quot;On Broadway,&quot; a lively production of today\'s current Broadway smash hits including &quot;Wicked,&quot; &quot;Mama Mia&quot; and &quot;Hairspray.&quot; </p><p>In addition, music by three bands keeps the energy going into the evening when guests can party until the wee hours of the morning at two new themed experiences: White Hot Night, the ultimate dance party at sea set in a wonderland of white; and Monte Carlo Night, a sizzling casino party with the glitz and glam reminiscent of the French Riviera. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Get Lucky </p><p>The Sky Club Casino features Blackjack, Roulette, 3-Card Poker, Texas Hold \'Em and Craps. For slot lovers, there are more than 160 of the newest video and traditional slot machines. The ship also features less traditional games including Pai-Gow Poker, Pai-Gow Tiles and Mini Baccarat, on request. Guests can also join NCL\'s Casinos at Sea Players Club the most rewarding players program at sea. </p><p>Kids Rule </p><p>Norwegian Sky offers Freestyle family fun for children of all ages, and parents can enjoy the ship with extended Kid\'s Crew hours. The Kid\'s Korner features areas for arts and crafts, movies and computers. The Zone serves as a hip place for teens from 13 to 17 to hang out complete with video games, jukebox, foosball table and air hockey. By night, The Zone turns into a teen disco and bar serving non-alcoholic drinks. Splashes Kid\'s Pool is just right for pint-size splashing and playing and features a waterfall and a children\'s hot tub nearby. In addition, the popular Nintendo Wii is available for play. </p>','2013-01-10 16:43:48',305,2,1,NULL,NULL,399,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(710,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Seabourn Cruises','All Guests of Seabourn Odyssey’s Maiden Voyage to Become “Godparents”','Exterior_03_medium_336567851.jpg','2008-07-21 01:26:00','<p>Miami, July 17 &ndash; One extraordinary yacht, one incredible voyage, and 450 godparents. Those are the numbers behind the highly anticipated launch of Seabourn Odyssey, the newest member of the Seabourn fleet, in June 2009. Those fortunate enough to secure one of the few remaining spots aboard Odyssey&rsquo;s maiden voyage will share the unprecedented honor of being named a &ldquo;godparent&rdquo; of the new vessel &ndash; a distinction usually reserved for a celebrity or otherwise noteworthy personality. It&rsquo;s an honor that will be recognized for the duration of the luxury yacht&rsquo;s seagoing life.</p><p>&ldquo;Everything we do at Seabourn is focused on our guests who, in a very real sense, are the reason this superb vessel is being built,&rdquo; said Pamela C. Conover, president and CEO of The Yachts of Seabourn. &ldquo;Those joining Odyssey&rsquo;s maiden voyage will not only be treated like a celebrity, but will become a part of the vessel&rsquo;s history, representing the many guests who have sailed with us in the past and those who will sail on her in the years to come.&rdquo;</p><p>Each passenger aboard Odyssey&rsquo;s maiden voyage, scheduled to depart Venice, Italy, on June 24, 2009, will have his or her name engraved on a plaque to be displayed on board the sleek yacht. An early-evening ceremony to christen the new yacht is planned to coincide with the summer sunset over the domes and steeples of Venice&rsquo;s skyline &ndash; with all 450 godparents taking part in the momentous event. Seabourn Odyssey will then make its stately way from the canals to the lagoon and beyond &ndash; a gala, 14-day voyage exploring the Dalmatian coast, the Greek Isles, and Turkey.</p><p>Highlights of the cruise will include sailing into the dramatic fjord of Kotor in Montenegro, a day of water sports from the yacht&rsquo;s marina while anchored off the Greek Isle of Mylos, and a signature Exclusively Seabourn evening reception and concert in the torch-lit ruins of Ephesus in Turkey.</p><p>The cruise industry&rsquo;s first ultra-luxury vessel to be launched in six years, Seabourn Odyssey is first of three &ldquo;new builds&rdquo; to be introduced by Seabourn. The 32,000-ton yacht will accommodate 450 guests in luxurious all-suite accommodations measuring from 290 to over 1,600 square feet, more than 90 percent of them outfitted with private verandas. The cruising yacht will offer guests five dining alternatives, five lounges and bars, an expansive pool and sunbathing area, and a spectacular two-deck, indoor/outdoor spa facility of more than 11,400 square-feet.</p><p>Seabourn Odyssey&rsquo;s maiden season will include voyages from the grand cities and romantic isles of the Mediterranean to the sparkling waters of the Caribbean, before embarking on Seabourn&rsquo;s first-ever World Cruise in January 2010.</p>','2013-01-07 02:08:26',178,1,1,NULL,NULL,400,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(711,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Crystal Cruises','Crystal Cruises adds Acupuncture to its wellness services','acupuncture_792061998.jpg','2008-07-21 01:28:00','<p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span>The new acupuncture services will be launched this month on <span style=\"font-weight: bold\">Crystal Serenity</span>, along with a whole menu of treatments focusing on weight loss, pain management, and stress reduction, detoxification, smoking cessation, facial rejuvenation and even sea sickness.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span><br /></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\">&quot;For many, a vacation offers the freedom to try something new,&quot; says Thomas Mazloum,<br />senior vice president, hotel operations. &quot;Whether one is just curious or one wants to pursue new treatments, acupuncture complements Crystal\'s myriad of onboard wellness activities, which have transformed guests into devotees of disciplines like yoga or reflexology or Spinning&reg;.&quot;</p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\">&nbsp;</p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\">Acupuncture involves the insertion and manipulation of fine needles into specific points on the body to ease pain and for other therapeutic purposes.<span> </span>It is has been confirmed by the World Health Organization that acupuncture can help relieve aches and pains; stimulate weight loss; alleviate stress; detoxify the body; help cease smoking; ease seasickness and anti-aging.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\">&nbsp;</p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span>The Crystal Cruises program includes an onboard acupuncturist, menus of Chinese herbs and shipboard seminars discussing acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and Feng Shui practices and benefits.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><br /><span></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span>In keeping with Crystal Cruises wellness amenities, guests can also enjoy complimentary yoga, Pilates and newly introduced &lsquo;Tour de Spin&rsquo; cycling classes and an exclusive &lsquo;Walk on Water</span><span>&reg;</span><span>&rsquo; program which uses weighted vests to increase resistance.</span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><br /><span><span></span></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span></span></p><p style=\"text-align: justify\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span><span style=\"font-weight: bold\">Crystal Symphony</span> and <span style=\"font-weight: bold\">Crystal Serenity</span> will be hosting Mind, Body &amp; Spirit themed cruises in December 2008 and 2009.<span> </span>The themed cruises will focus on general wellbeing through classes and discussions with guest instructors trained in Tai Chi, yoga, Pilates and general fitness.</span></p>','2013-01-14 22:27:21',183,1,1,NULL,NULL,401,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Crystal Cruises is expanding its collection of wellness services by the introduction of on board acupuncture. In addition, Crystal Cruises will also be offering a menu of Chinese herbs believed to aid the restoration of health and wellbeing.',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(712,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Bob Koslow, News-Journal Online','Time to fold &#039;em: Company shuts down gambling ship','c_sterling_photo5_749805273.jpg','2008-07-21 01:30:00','<span>Sterling Casino Lines recently shut down its Port Canaveral-based offshore gambling ship, which had operated for 12 years. </span><span><p>Although the ship docked 45 miles south of Daytona Beach, residents in Volusia and Flagler counties had easy access by free buses that picked up gamblers and passengers at five stops between Palm Coast and New Smyrna Beach. Southwest Volusia residents could ride a bus that traveled between the port and Seminole Town Center. </p><p>Sterling closed its operations July 7 after canceling the July 6 cruises at the last minute because of air-conditioning problems aboard the Ambassador II. The company had about 500 ship- and land-based employees. </p><p>Company officials did not return calls for comments. However, a statement on the company Web site blamed the closure on the expiration of the lease with the Port Canaveral Port Authority. Other ports were being sought for the five-deck ship. </p><p>&quot;It was Sterling\'s decision, not the Port Authority\'s, which had been trying to come to terms with Sterling. In fact, Sterling rejected the Port Authority\'s offer to reduce its lease rates by as much as 30 percent. Sterling had been experiencing a decrease in passengers,&quot; port authority communications director Rosalind Postell Harvey wrote in an e-mail. </p><p>Sterling reported a 15 percent decline in passengers between March and May compared to last year. An unreliable schedule caused by a failed Coast Guard inspection in March 2007, docked a week in Sept. 2007 for of repairs and in dry dock in Jacksonville from November through February may also have hurt business. </p><p>SunCruz, which also has a gambling boat in Port Canaveral, saw an 8 percent increase in passengers during the same time, according to port authority data. SunCruz pulled out of Ponce Inlet in early January. </p><p>The port is expecting a replacement for the departed ship. Las Vegas Casino Lines intends to bring in a 900-passenger ship, Liquid Vegas, by the end of the month, according to the company Web site. A bus schedule has not been posted,</p></span>','2013-01-24 13:19:48',365,1,1,NULL,NULL,402,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(713,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Viking River Cruises Honored by Readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine','1149385462_4b49d2e3ab_300799837.jpg','2008-07-21 01:31:00','LOS ANGELES, July 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Viking River Cruises has once<br />again been recognized by readers of the leading travel magazine Travel +<br />Leisure as one of the &quot;Top 10 Small-Ship Cruise Lines&quot; in the periodical\'s<br />13th annual &quot;World\'s Best&quot; awards. &quot;This is the fourth time Viking River<br />Cruises has appeared on this list -- and we are delighted to be the<br />highest-ranked dedicated river cruising company in the Small-Ship<br />category,&quot; said Torstein Hagen, founder and chairman of Viking River<br />Cruises.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The annual &quot;World\'s Best&quot; survey allows readers to recognize their<br />favorite travel providers in categories like hotels, airlines, etc.,<br />including cruise lines; the &quot;small ships&quot; category is for vessels which<br />carry fewer than 400 passengers. The poll is limited to readers that are<br />not travel industry professionals, and ratings are based on subscribers\'<br />actual recent experiences with the travel vendors being considered. &quot;We<br />believe the readers of Travel + Leisure are sophisticated travelers who<br />know what they want,&quot; continued Hagen, &quot;and they know who can best provide<br />it.&quot;<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The world\'s largest river cruise line, Viking River Cruises provides<br />its passengers with in-depth, culturally rich travel experiences along the<br />world\'s great rivers. The company has a 99.8% satisfaction rating for<br />having met, exceeded or far exceeded the expectations of its guests in<br />2007. &quot;Our passengers have high expectations of us,&quot; said Hagen, &quot;and we<br />work very hard every year to meet and surpass those expectations. Our<br />appearance on the Travel + Leisure \'World\'s Best\' list means we are doing<br />just that -- which inspires us to work even harder to satisfy and delight<br />our guests.&quot;<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Viking River Cruises 2009 River Cruise Atlas(TM)<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Viking has announced its 2009 lineup of cruises and cruisetours, which<br />includes 19 itineraries, ranging from eight to 23 days in length, in<br />Europe, China, Russia and Ukraine. Viking\'s ships sail along the Rhine,<br />Moselle, Rhone, Saone, Seine, Main, Danube and Elbe Rivers in Europe, the<br />Neva, Svir and Volga in Russia, the Dnieper in Ukraine and the Yangtze in<br />China. Operating the world\'s largest fleet of 21 river cruising vessels,<br />Viking offers elegant, spacious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, excellent<br />service by English-speaking staff and local guides, and superior value for<br />passengers\' travel dollars.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For 2009, the company has announced the launch of its new ship, Viking<br />Legend, which will join the rest of the fleet on the company\'s popular<br />Grand European Tour itinerary. In Russia, the company launched its fully<br />renovated Viking Surkov in May of this year; next year, Viking Kirov will<br />also be fully renovated, making these ships the very best river cruise<br />ships in Russia. Viking also offers a number of exciting new land extension<br />programs for 2009, including a tour of four Baltic capitals, a sojourn on<br />the idyllic Channel Islands, a pilgrimage to Nice and other legendary<br />destinations along the French Riviera, and 3 fascinating nights in<br />Istanbul. There are also new guest amenities, like free wireless internet<br />service on all Europe ships and expanded in-depth itinerary-specific<br />cultural enrichment experiences.','2013-01-07 01:36:13',186,1,1,NULL,NULL,403,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Viking Top-Rated Dedicated River Cruise Line',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(714,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','TravelTrade Staff','RCCL Reportedly to Downsize Staff','123_886079714.jpg','2008-07-21 01:35:00','<span class=\"article_text\">Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. may undergo a large staff downsizing, according to Seatrade Insider News. The online publication cites &quot;widespread industry sources&quot; as reporting that the cruise company is seeking to cut costs and improve efficiencies. <p>According to Seatrade Insider sources, department heads have been asked to develop two budge scenarios - one with a payroll budget cut of 10% and one with an overall budget cut of 25%. The publication\'s sources also said most layoffs are targeted for middle to upper management positions. </p><p>Royal Caribbean has not acknowledged any specific moves. </p><p>A RCCL spokesperson quoted Lynn Martenstein, vice president of corporate communications, as saying: &quot;Like most companies today, we are redoubling our efforts to find savings, but we have not announced any specific actions.&quot; </p></span>','2013-01-14 22:17:25',271,1,1,NULL,NULL,404,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(753,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Sensation to Undergo Full ‘Evolutions of Fun’ Upgrades Following Jan. 2009 Dry Dock','sensation1_557294393.jpg','2008-08-07 12:51:00','<p align=\"justify\">Carnival Sensation will undergo a multi-million-dollar refurbishment that will include the installation of an expansive water park, an exclusive adults-only retreat and tropical-themed mid-ship pool area, as well as renovations to nearly 1,000 staterooms and cosmetic enhancements to a wide range of public rooms and areas.</p><p align=\"justify\"><span></span></p><p align=\"justify\">The &ldquo;extreme makeover,&rdquo; which represents the next phase of the line&rsquo;s &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; product enhancement initiative for the line&rsquo;s eight Fantasy-class vessels, will take place during a scheduled 35-day dry dock in January 2009.</p><p align=\"justify\">Carnival Sensation &ndash; which operates the line&rsquo;s popular three- and four-day Bahamas cruise program from Port Canaveral, Fla. &ndash; will be the fourth Fantasy-class ship to receive the full &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; makeovers. Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Imagination were completed late last year and Carnival Fantasy is scheduled to receive the upgrades during a scheduled dry dock this fall.</p><p align=\"justify\"><strong>New Water Park, Adults-Only Area, Tropical-Style Main Pool </strong></p><p align=\"justify\">&nbsp;</p><p>Highlighting Carnival Sensation&rsquo;s new &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; upgrades will be an expansive Carnival WaterWorks aqua park that is sure to appeal to guests of all ages. Located on Verandah Deck, the open-air facility includes a 300-foot-long spiral water slide &ndash; the longest at sea &ndash; along with twin 82-foot-long racing slides and various water spray apparatus.</p><p align=\"justify\">The dry dock will also include an exclusive new adults-only retreat called &ldquo;Serenity,&rdquo; located aft on Promenade Deck. Designed as an oasis for relaxation and comfort, Serenity will offer magnificent ocean views along with plush chaise lounges and chairs with shade provided by colorful oversized umbrellas. Serenity guests can relax in two large whirlpools and enjoy a variety of icy cocktails and frozen drinks.</p><p align=\"justify\">Another component of the &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; upgrades is a new resort-style pool located mid-ship on Lido Deck that will feature a tropical theme with thatched roofing, faux palm trees and striking umbrellas surrounding the facility. Comfortable deck chairs and a colorful tiled &ldquo;beach&rdquo; encircling the pool&rsquo;s edge add to the ambiance.</p><strong><p align=\"justify\">&nbsp;</p><p align=\"justify\">Extensive Stateroom Upgrades, Other Enhancements</p></strong><p align=\"justify\">Carnival Sensation&rsquo;s &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; upgrades also include extensive renovations to nearly 1,000 staterooms which will feature flat-screen televisions with an updated d&eacute;cor with new carpeting, wall coverings and light fixtures, as well as renovated bathrooms.</p><p align=\"justify\">Carnival Sensation&rsquo;s 35-day dry dock will also include cosmetic enhancements to virtually all public rooms and areas, including the Fantasy and Ecstasy main dining rooms, the poolside Seaview Bar &amp; Grille, Touch of Class piano bar, Oak Room library, and Kaleidoscope dance club. Many of Carnival Sensation&rsquo;s live music and dancing venues have already received new high-tech sound and lighting systems during a previous dry dock.</p><strong><p align=\"justify\">&nbsp;</p><p align=\"justify\">Other &lsquo;Evolutions of Fun&rsquo; Enhancements</p></strong><p align=\"justify\">The new upgrades will complement the Carnival Sensation&rsquo;s wide range of previously introduced enhancements that are part of the &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; program, including a nine-hole miniature golf course, renovated 12,000-square-foot Spa Carnival facility, new art and photo galleries, an atrium lobby bar, and a 1,200-square-foot conference center.</p><p align=\"justify\">A number of family friendly amenities &ndash; including expansive new facilities for children, tweens and teens, part of the line&rsquo;s &ldquo;Camp Carnival,&rdquo; &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; and &ldquo;Club O2&Prime; programs, respectively &ndash; along with more than 50 interconnecting staterooms &mdash; have been added, as well.</p>','2013-01-23 04:15:06',210,1,1,NULL,NULL,443,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(754,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','WKRG.com','Mobile Is Carnival’s “Fantasy” Port','123_647943093.jpg','2008-08-07 12:52:00','<span>Carnival\'s Fantasy cruise ship will continue to operate out of Mobile until it goes into drydock in September.<br /><br />The cruise line fears lingering delays from an oil spill on the Mississippi River would throw off its arrival/departure schedules out of New Orleans, Fantasy\'s home port.<br /><br />&quot;We sincerely apologize to all of our guests that are impacted by this situation,&quot; said a Carnival spokesperson on the <a href=\"http://www.carnival.com/cms/fun/cruise_control/NewOrleans_Update2.aspx\" title=\"company\'s website\">company\'s website</a>. &quot;The entire Carnival team will do everything possible to minimize this inconvenience&quot;<br /><br />The Fantasy, which is currently out to sea, will return to Mobile on Saturday. Passengers will be bused back to the New Orleans cruise terminal or the New Orleans airport.<br /><br />Passengers who embark on Saturday should park at the New Orleans cruise terminal. They will then be bused to Mobile. The cruise will return to Mobile August 14th and passengers will be bused back to the Crescent City.<br /><br />All remaining cruises (August 14, 18, 23 and September 1) will depart from Mobile. Carnival will bus passengers to Mobile if they\'ve already purchased airfare to New Orleans.<br /><br />Mayor Sam Jones tells News 5 this experiment could lead to a second cruise ship in Mobile. <br /><br />&quot;It shows that we could very easily handle two cruise ships at our terminal here,&quot; Jones said. &quot;We\'re using (this opportunity) to market ourselves for another ship. We\'d like to have another ship. Certainly this year, we expect to have an announcement for a larger ship.&quot; </span>','2013-01-19 23:56:34',330,1,1,NULL,NULL,444,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(755,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','CBC News','Cruise ships surpass 1 million visitors to Saint John','123_158923443.jpg','2008-08-07 12:56:00','<p>When American tourist Helen Camper walked down the gang plank in Saint John Wednesday, she had no idea she was the millionth cruise ship passenger to arrive in the New Brunswick port city.</p><p>But Camper realized something was up as an entourage of city officials and well-wishers stepped forward to greet her, showering her with flowers and gifts and taking her on a tour of the community.</p><p>Although the resident of Annapolis, Md., had been to Canada many times, this was Camper\'s first visit to Saint John.</p><p>&quot;It\'s wonderful. I mean, the Canadian people have always been one of my favourites,&quot; she said. &quot;They\'re so friendly that I could been Canadian very easily if I wasn\'t American.&quot;</p><p>It has been 19 years since the first cruise ship visitor arrived in the city, said Betty MacMillan, manager of the Saint John Port Authority.</p><p>&quot;It was slow in the very beginning,&quot; she said, adding it has grown steadily ever since. About 180,000 passengers visit the city annually from the ships now.</p><p>&quot;It\'s bringing so much money to the economy of New Brunswick, it\'s well worth celebrating,&quot; MacMillan said.</p><p>Richard Frawley, who sells souvenirs, said the cruise ships are vital to his business.</p><p>&quot;It\'s the greatest thing that we ever had here, and we welcome them all, and we want them to come back and see us again,&quot; he said.</p><p>Cruise industry critic Ross Klein said the one-million passenger mark is a milestone worth marking, but he thinks the city could make more money from the ships if it granted the industry fewer concessions.</p>','2013-01-19 23:49:02',174,1,1,NULL,NULL,445,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(756,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','MSC Cruises','MSC Cruises body shaping treatment','spa_931187710.jpg','2008-08-07 12:58:00','<p>MSC Cruises newest addition to its fleet, MSC Fantasia, will offer treatments in its magnificent new wellbeing centre Aurea Spa that will help reshape the body under medical supervision.</p><p>MSC Fantasia is due to be christened in December 2008 in Naples and will be the largest ever European built ship. MSC Fantasia promises a new concept of cruising for MSC Cruises and will weigh 133,500 tonnes. </p><p>Aurea Spa on board MSC Cruises new MSC Fantasia ship will offer body treatments within a special area of the spa. The spa is expected to be introduced on board all of MSC Cruises ships and will be the first of its kind that carry out treatments under medical supervision.</p><p>The most current medical equipment will be used to reshape the body in the Aurea Spa and one of the procedures is The Active Press which is one of the most effective ways to combat cellulite, eliminate water retention and the heavy feeling found in limbs. This treatment will involve the client wearing specially designed leggings that create a gentle pressure on the areas that need to be treated including thighs, buttocks, calves and ankles. To enhance the drainage action, the pressure will be applied with essential oils.</p><p>Another new luxurious amenity to be found on MSC Fantasia is the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive VIP area with 99 spacious and extravagant suites, wonderfully furnished to the highest standards, with butler service included and private communal areas.</p>','2013-01-13 15:55:29',261,1,1,NULL,NULL,446,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(757,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Martha Brannigan, Miami Herald','Cruise control: ships cut fuel cost','115_2730808_embedded_prod_affiliate_56_583406919.jpg','2008-08-07 12:58:00','<p>The average consumer can trim back on road trips and turn up the thermostat a few degrees to conserve energy. But imagine tackling energy management for a company with a projected 2008 fuel bill of $772 million.</p><p>Clobbered by soaring fuel costs, Miami-based Royal Caribbean Cruises has brought in a vice president of energy management, tasked with scouting the company for ways to save energy and spend less for it.</p><p>\'\'You can\'t have an impact without this jumping to the top of the agenda,\'\' said Patrick Sinclair, whom Royal Caribbean hired this spring to do the job.</p><p>Sinclair, 39, a South African with a shock of red hair and a ready grin, acknowledges the position is so new that his responsibilities are still being defined. But what\'s clear is that his search for energy savings has no limits, and that he\'ll take good practices from one ship to others in a fleet that includes five brands and 37 ships, with another seven under construction.</p><p>So far, the line is doing things big and small to save energy, ranging from revamping cruise itineraries and slowing ships down to using energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances.</p><p>Tweaking itineraries typically involves adjusting departure and arrival times and sometimes dropping one port in favor of another.</p><p>\'\'The idea is to optimize port sequences so you get the most efficient voyage at the lowest possible average speed,\'\' said Bjorn Brock Johansen, captain of Royal Caribbean\'s Majesty of the Seas. He designed a software program to help itinerary planners create trips that save energy while maintaining passenger appeal.</p><p>\'\'You need to shorten the time in port, but not too much, because it will affect the customer experience -- and shore-excursion revenue,\'\' he said. A key factor in selecting home ports is the cost and availability of air service, since many airlines have trimmed flights and raised fares. \'\'Airfare has gone through the roof, so it doesn\'t help to change an itinerary if the air [service] isn\'t easily available,\'\' Sinclair said.</p><p>As part of a conservation effort, Sinclair also is pushing a variety of small steps that the average consumer could apply at home, such as installing more efficient shower heads and kitchen appliances. He is asking simple questions like ``Do hot plates have to be fired up an hour or two before [meal] service?\'\'</p><p><strong>SHIP UPGRADES</strong></p><p>Royal Caribbean is replacing thousands of halogen and incandescent light bulbs throughout its ships and its headquarters with energy-efficient LED and fluorescent lights. Timers, motion detectors, and dimmers are planned.</p><p>LED lights, he said, generate far less heat, thus having less impact on air conditioning. Heating ventilation and air conditioning are \'\'quite a significant drain,\'\' said Sinclair. Royal also is checking ship doors and windows for leaks and installing window tinting.</p><p>Royal Caribbean has high hopes for its new ships, which are designed to be more energy efficient -- from the hull shape to the type of propeller and rudder system used. On the Oasis of the Seas, which is slated for her maiden voyage in December 2009 as the world\'s largest cruise ship, the fuel cost per available passenger cruise day -- a standard industry measure -- is roughly 25 percent of that on some older ships.</p><p>Some of the latest efficiencies can be added to older ships. The company\'s Celebrity Cruises unit, for example, uses silicone hull paint that reduces resistance of ships moving through the water.</p><p>A group of managers work closely with ship and engine manufacturers to explore new technologies and even to look beyond fossil fuel.</p><p>Like most big fuel-dependent companies, Royal Caribbean has an active oil hedging program to reduce the risk of price fluctuations. Still, based on recent oil prices, it estimated its fuel expense for 2009 will be about $890 million. It is being more careful about where it buys fuel, since prices vary widely around the globe, Sinclair said.</p><p>A central element of Sinclair\'s post is ensuring the company has the best metrics to track energy usage. One system tracks megawatt hours by department. The company can tell by ship, by brand, and by date how much fuel, electricity, and water is used.</p><p>\'\'We need to go after the things that matter,\'\' he said. ``You can\'t manage if you can\'t measure.\'\'</p><p>The No. 2 cruise operator already has employees\' attention on the energy management issue: In July, it cut 400 jobs to slash operating costs by $125 million. Behind the layoffs were soaring energy costs.</p><p><strong>CRUISE INCOME DOWN</strong></p><p>Royal\'s fuel bill has climbed by $180 million since the beginning of the year, which could mean an annualized increase of about $300 million, reported Richard D. Fain, the chairman and chief executive. As a result, second-quarter net income plunged 34 percent to $84.7 million, or 40 cents a share, from $128.7 million, or 60 cents a share, a year earlier.</p><p>\'\'There were a lot of initiatives under way [when I started],\'\' said Sinclair, who joined Royal Caribbean in 2006 as vice president of information-technology strategy and global applications. ``Now the idea is to get them all moving forward.\'\'</p><p>Miami-based Carnival Corp., the world\'s largest cruise operator, has similar initiatives under way, although it hasn\'t named a sole executive to oversee the various efforts.</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:46',371,1,1,NULL,NULL,447,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Squeezed by high fuel costs, Royal Caribbean Cruises hired a chief to put energy management on the front burner; other lines may follow suit.','So far, Royal Caribbean Cruises is doing things big and small to save energy, ranging from revamping cruise itineraries and slowing ships down to using energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances.',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(758,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Ruby Princess Completes Successful Sea Trials','ruby_princess_large_113009988.jpg','2008-08-07 13:01:00','SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 5, 2008) - <em>Ruby Princess </em>has completed another major milestone in preparation for her November 8 debut, with the completion of her sea trials. The new ship set out to sea from her construction dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and was put through her paces with a series of maneuvers to test her propulsion, steering and navigational equipment. After a successful four days of trials, the ship is now back in the shipyard for further exterior and interior finishing. <em>Ruby Princess </em>will be ready for her maiden voyage from Ft. Lauderdale, a seven-day Western Caribbean sailing taking passengers to Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Princess Cays. <p><em>Ruby Princess </em>is a sister ship to <em>Emerald Princess </em>and <em>Crown Princess, </em>and will feature the same dramatic piazza-style atrium that have become so popular on those ships. Other ship highlights include Princess\' signature adults-only retreat called The Sanctuary, an Italian trattoria, a seafood and steak house, a &quot;Movies Under the Stars&quot; giant outdoor movie screen and 900 cabins with private balconies. </p>','2013-01-09 11:10:13',323,1,1,NULL,NULL,448,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(759,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Disney Cruise Line','Disney Cruise Line Recognized as a Top Cruise Experience by Readers of Travel + Leisure MagazineDisney Cruise Line Recognized as a Top Cruise Experience by Readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine','123_815449622.jpg','2008-08-10 00:11:00','<p>Disney Cruise Line continues to receive top honors in the cruise industry, most recently being recognized in Travel + Leisure magazine&rsquo;s &ldquo;2008 World&rsquo;s Best&rdquo; awards.</p><p>The &ldquo;World&rsquo;s Best&rdquo; list, which is compiled annually, recognizes the best in travel for cities, hotels, islands, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters and car-rental agencies each year. This year,Disney Cruise Line ranked No. 3 in the &ldquo;Large-Ship&rdquo; cruise line category. The ranking was determined by readers asked to rate cruise lines on cabins, food, service, itineraries, destinations, activities and value.</p><p>Disney Cruise Line has moved up on the Travel + Leisure World&rsquo;s Best awards list each year, besting all other &ldquo;mass market&rdquo; cruise lines and further confirming a niche position as the ultimate family cruise vacation &ndash; a concept it pioneered and continues to refine with specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allowing for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. </p><p>&ldquo;We are delighted to be recognized in the Travel + Leisure magazine &ldquo;2008 World&rsquo;s Best&rdquo; awards as one of the top three large-ship cruise lines and the highest ranked cruise line catering to the family market,&rdquo; said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. &ldquo;This recognition further enhances our position as the best cruise line for an unparalleled family vacation and motivates us to continue to elevate the Disney Cruise Line experience even higher.&rdquo;</p><p>Disney Cruise Line has received nearly 50 distinguished awards and honors since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment to youth activities and spa facilities.</p><p>The Disney Cruise Line family focus allows families to reconnect, adults to recharge their batteries and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children&rsquo;s activities, the Disney ships offer a unique vacation experience that every member of the family feels was created exclusively for them. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it had not been for the Disney brand.</p>','2013-01-19 23:52:55',338,1,1,NULL,NULL,449,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(760,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','IBM News','Princess Cruises Sails With IBM InfoSphere Software','123_520158512.jpg','2008-08-10 00:14:00','<p>IBM (IBM - News) today announced that Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation (CCL - News) (CUK - News) and one of the world\'s premier cruise lines, will deploy IBM InfoSphere Warehouse software to analyze and improve the effectiveness of the company\'s marketing and promotional initiatives.<br />&nbsp;<br />Complementing its consumer marketing campaign, Princess Cruises will use InfoSphere Warehouse to analyze data to determine which marketing tactics were the most and least successful in drawing passengers to its 17 ships.</p><p>&quot;We chose InfoSphere Warehouse because it was compatible with our existing infrastructure, and we believe its proven high performance will provide some added tools to help us evaluate our marketing and management tactics,&quot; said Lou Fournier, Vice President, information systems technology for Princess Cruises. &quot;InfoSphere also addresses IT requirements to ensure the most critical applications. For instance, processing that once took 10 hours, will now take only 10 minutes. In addition, the software\'s DB2 deep compression capability can drastically reduce the amount of physical storage capacity by 70%.&quot;</p><p>&quot;Our relationship with Princess Cruises demonstrates IBM\'s commitment to help companies achieve high performance through data management innovations,&quot; said Inhi Cho, Vice President, IBM Data Management Marketing. &quot;There\'s a shift underway in the database software market as our partners and clients increasingly choose IBM. IBM InfoSphere Warehouse helps clients unlock the value of key business data, which is what IBM\'s Information on Demand strategy is all about.&quot;</p><p>InfoSphere Warehouse software is based on IBM DB2 &quot;Viper&quot; data server software, which provides features and capabilities that support growing customer demand for analytics and Information on Demand.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 00:00:03',162,1,1,NULL,NULL,451,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'IBM Data Warehousing Software Powers Marketing and Promotional Initiatives for Cruise Giant ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(761,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Martha Brannigan, Miami Herald','Cruise giant is sued over toxic gas','123_877437499.jpg','2008-08-10 00:18:00','<p>A former cruise ship staff captain has filed suit against Royal Caribbean Cruises, alleging he was seriously injured in an accident aboard the Monarch of the Seas in which a cloud of toxic gas escaped from ballast tanks into crew and passenger areas, killing three crewmen.</p><p>In a suit filed Wednesday in Miami-Dade Circuit Court, the former second in command on the Monarch, Bjoern Eidissen, of Norway, accused the Miami-based cruise giant of failing to properly maintain and service its ballast tanks, which are used for balance. That, he claims, resulted in the escape of poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas.</p><p>News reports at the time called the Sept. 2, 2005, cruise accident in the Port of Los Angeles the worst since the 2003 explosion on the Norway in the Port of Miami. That blast killed eight crew members.</p><p>\'\'He was on the ship and rushed in along with other crew members and was exposed to the gas,\'\' said John H. (Jack) Hickey, a Miami attorney who represents Eidissen. ``We believe he suffered traumatic brain injury.\'\'</p><p>In a statement Friday, the cruise line said an onboard rescue team using breathing apparatus recovered the three crew members who had been overcome by gas. It didn\'t address any involvement by Eidissen in the rescue.</p><p>The suit seeks unspecified money damages for Eidissen, who has returned to Norway and is unable to work due to the injuries, according to his attorney.</p><p>The lawsuit alleges that ship logs in the engine room and bridge document that passengers and crew ``were exposed to gas for an extended period of time after this accident.\'\'</p><p>In its statement, Royal said the incident occurred while the passengers were disembarking. \'\'None were affected in any way,\'\' it said. ``At no time were there any reports of dangerous gas levels within crew or guest accommodation or public spaces.\'\'</p><p>The cruise line also said the boarding of new passengers was delayed until ``after the U.S. Coast Guard and a variety of other health and safety authorities, including the Los Angeles Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team thoroughly examined the ship and gave their approval for its sailing.\'\'</p><p>A certified marine chemist tested the ship and reported it was gas-free, the cruise line said.</p><p>According to the suit, crewmen were working to repair a pipe when a huge cloud of lethal hydrogen sulfide gas spewed out of the opened ballast tank. \'\'A lot of officers were exposed,\'\' said Hickey.</p><p>The cruise line said in addition to the three crewmen who later died, 18 crew members were taken to the hospital, released in good condition and returned to the ship the same day.</p><p>One remained in Los Angeles for overnight observation, according to the cruise line.</p><p>The staff captain claims that the cruise line refused to provide proper medical treatment. \'\'His career has been ended now. He can\'t work and they haven\'t given him beans,\'\' said Hickey.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:55:28',268,1,1,NULL,NULL,452,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Royal Caribbean is being sued by a former captain who said he was injured in a 2005 accident in which poisonous gas escaped onboard a ship.',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(762,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Spud Hilton, San Francisco Chronicle','Cruise lines prefer add-on fees to fare hikes','123_444847045.jpg','2008-08-10 00:22:00','<p>When oil prices skyrocketed last year, cruise lines introduced fuel surcharges - supposedly a temporary, stop-gap measure to make up for a failure to hedge against market changes. </p><p>But now most cruise lines are saying (to paraphrase an old NRA bumper sticker): &quot;They won\'t take my fuel surcharge till they pry it from my cold, dead hand.&quot;</p><p>At a time when Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and the rest are trying to keep their published fares low but increase profits, fine-print add-ons such as a fuel surcharge (on average about $10 per person per day, depending on the cruise line) are a gold-pumping goose they have no intention of killing anytime soon.</p><p>Cruise lines set their published fares and itineraries 12 to 24 months ahead, a system that doesn\'t offer a lot of flexibility when costs rise. Unlike with airlines and hotels, which can quickly adjust rates (and still tack on extra charges), the add-on fee for fuel among cruise lines was somewhat justified by the inability to change prices to meet higher costs.</p><p>If that\'s the case, however, shouldn\'t cruise lines start building higher fuel costs into fares for 2009 and 2010? Apparently not. A brief survey of the major large-ship cruise lines found that among those that had adopted a fuel surcharge, not one is planning on phasing it out &quot;for some time,&quot; if ever.</p><p>&quot;Because fuel prices have been so highly volatile, we elected to implement the fuel supplement as a separate charge so we would be in a position to promptly and effectively make adjustments to the ... amount based on the potential for ongoing changes to fuel prices,&quot; said Vance Gulliksen, spokesman for Carnival Corp., which owns a dozen other small lines including Holland America, Princess, Costa and Cunard. </p><p>&quot;You should expect that fuel supplements are going to be around - at least for a while,&quot; Gulliksen said.</p><p>Royal Caribbean and Norwegian (which represent almost all of the North American large-ship market not owned by Carnival) issued similar statements. &quot;At this time, we have no plans to eliminate the surcharge,&quot; said AnneMarie Mathews, spokeswoman for Norwegian.</p><p>In Royal Caribbean\'s case, there also is an issue of public perception.</p><p>&quot;We\'ve chosen to use the supplement because it specifically highlights that issue for our guests,&quot; said Michael Sheehan, spokesman for Royal Caribbean, which also owns Celebrity and Azamara cruise lines. &quot;It ensures our guests know about it and know specifically what it\'s designed to do.&quot;</p><p>Whatever the reason, keeping the surcharge makes good business sense: If you can introduce an add-on and the public adapts to it (albeit grudgingly), then there\'s no incentive to get rid of it. </p><p>Unfortunately, added flexibility in covering costs for the cruise line equates to increased uncertainty for customers about the final cost.</p><p>If you pick a Norwegian Cruise Line trip advertised at $799 per person, for instance, you should plan to pay $1,100 per person (port fees, taxes, service fee, fuel surcharge), and that doesn\'t include the optional stuff, such as beverages, alternative restaurants or shore excursions. On Norwegian, $77 of that increase ($154 per couple) is for fuel. </p><p>In all fairness, when oil prices jumped, the cruise lines took a hit that in any other industry would have been crippling. (For instance, Carnival Corp., parent company to a dozen cruise lines, expects to consume 3.24 million metric tons of fuel during 2008 - just shy of 1 billion gallons, depending on the type of fuel.)</p><p>Said Sheehan: &quot;People need to be mindful of the fact that the fuel supplements being collected do not cover the record high fuel costs that we have experienced in recent years.&quot;</p><p>Unlike the airlines, however, the big cruise lines are still making very healthy profits. Stockholders for Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean International will get a nice dividend from the second quarter, as they did from the one before that and the one before that. </p><p>If the justification for long-term fuel surcharges is a volatile market, shouldn\'t there be a lobster surcharge (based on market price)? And what about the U.S. dollar? Shouldn\'t they charge extra to passengers who pay in dollars because its value on the market fluctuates?</p><p>The answer to those questions - and whether a long-term fuel surcharge is justified - should be this: No, because those things are the cost of doing business, which is the responsibility of the business. If it costs more to do business, raise your prices. It really should be that simple. </p>','2013-01-20 00:02:14',211,1,1,NULL,NULL,453,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(763,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','AllaboutJazz.com','Pink Floyd Themed Cruise Set to Sail in 2009','123_857464908.jpg','2008-08-10 00:25:00','<p>&ldquo;The Great Gig in the Sea&quot; (like Dark Side\'s &ldquo;Great Gig in the Sky,&quot; but aquatic) is the brainchild of entertainment company Kiqstart Music and Think Floyd USA, which prides itself on being &ldquo;the number one touring production of Pink Floyd in the country.&quot; </p><p>The cover band supposedly opened for Roger Waters and received &ldquo;personal acclaim&quot; from David Gilmour, so that\'s enough cred to charter a Floyd cruise. </p><p>The Carnival cruise ship will sail from the port of Miami to the Bahamas on May 1st, 2009. Over the course of the three-night ride, fans can expect special shows by Think Floyd USA each night, including a full performance of Dark Side of the Moon. </p><p>There will also be Pink Floyd trivia, parties, games and &ldquo;special guests.&quot; Cabin prices start at $379. If you\'re a Floyd fan, you\'d be as crazy as Syd Barrett to miss it. </p>','2013-01-20 00:00:06',273,1,1,NULL,NULL,454,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Pink Floyd will be the subject of their very own themed cruise, even though no actual Floyd members will board the ship. ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(764,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Celebrity Cruises','Celebrity Solstice Takes A Step Closer to Its Debut','solstice_919984395.jpg','2008-08-11 21:23:00','<p>The Celebrity Solstice will make its inaugural cruise on November 23th, 2008. The cruise ship marks the birth of a new class of ships for Celebrity cruises. The new ships, the Solstice and the Equinox, will have many innovations and features not available on Celebrity&rsquo;s current fleet. These features include multiple alternative and casual dining venues, a glass blowing show, a complete circus style show and a grass lawn. </p><p>The Solstice, the first to be built, took one more major step this week towards its completion. The ship was moved out of the dry dock building area and into the ship yard where it underwent extensive engine testing. Over the next week, in addition to the more mundane work, the ship will have its two funnels installed in preparation for it sea testing scheduled for September 27th, 2008. </p><p>The debut of the the Solstice has not been without controversy. The inaugural voyage was moved up by two weeks after the initial sales had begun. In fairness, Celebrity did give passengers booked on the original date the chance to reschedule to the new earlier debut cruise with no extra charges. Many passengers, having booked the cruise for inaugural experience, moved to the new date if their schedules permitted the move. However, what is perhaps causing the most controversy, is that &ldquo;Cruises Only&rdquo; travel agency is selling spots on a Nov 21st charter pre-inaugural two day cruise to nowhere. Usually cruise lines have some sort of pre-inaugural cruises where only company family, travel agents, or VIP&rsquo;s are invited, not the general public. I suspect that several these &ldquo;Shake Down&rdquo; cruises will take place before the two day &ldquo;Cruises Only&rdquo; charter. But many of the passengers who have booked the inaugural cruise are expressing disappointment on the cruise message boards that their inaugural voyage may not be so inaugural after all. </p><p>For me personally, I would be hesitant to book any inaugural cruise. Running a cruise ship is such an extensive operation that despite planning and experienced crew members, the cruise line may just need a few voyages to work out all the &ldquo;bugs&rdquo; in their on board operations. I have feeling that most passengers who booked these inaugurals are aware that things may not run completely smoothly, but they choose to book the cruise anyway to take advantage of the excitement revolving around an inaugural cruise.</p><p>I wish all these cruisers the best whether on the 2 day charter or the official inaugural. I can&rsquo;t wait to hear from them when they return from their voyages. </p>','2013-01-19 23:54:43',181,1,1,NULL,NULL,455,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(765,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','P&amp;O Cruises to offer luxury cosmetics Couleur Caramel in spas','colour_941013418.jpg','2008-08-11 21:24:00','<p>P&amp;O Cruises have announced that they will be offering the organic make-up range Couleur Caramel in the on-board Spa on all of their P&amp;O Cruises ships, such as P&amp;O Ventura and P&amp;O Artemis. The fair trade range from France is of exceptionally high quality make and is made completely from natural ingredients.</p><p><br />Couleur Caramel is a unique range of make-up as it combines the latest cosmetic technology with organically grown ingredients, whilst at the same time respecting the environment, animals and people. It is only available in the most exclusive leading professional salons and spa, but now lucky guests on board P&amp;O Cruises will have the opportunity to indulge.</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises, head of brand marketing, Philip Price said, &quot;Our passengers expect the very best and Couleur Caramel is just that. Couleur Caramel products are professional quality, innovative, and made from natural, organic and fair trade ingredients.</p><p>&quot;P&amp;O Cruise&rsquo;s passengers want more from a holiday. Offering Couleur Caramel products in our spas is simply one of the many attentive touches of luxury that sets us apart from other holidays.&quot;</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:52',257,1,1,NULL,NULL,456,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(766,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Gem Focus of Fine Living Network&#039;s Ultimate Cruise Guide','123_741127829.jpg','2008-08-11 21:25:00','<p>Norwegian Gem, NCL\'s newest Freestyle Cruising ship, takes center stage in Fine Living Network\'s new one-hour special: The Ultimate Cruise Guide. The special was filmed during a seven-day Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Norwegian Gem and will premiere on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 10 p.m. EST.</p><p>The show presents a complete guide to everything a viewer needs to know about cruising, featuring insider tips from Norwegian Gem\'s officers and a first-hand look at cruising through the eyes of the Walkers, a family of four from New York with children ages six and 10, and Joey and Joy, a young, professional couple on a romantic getaway, as they explore the ship\'s on-board amenities and NCL shore excursions.</p><p>&quot;NCL\'s Freestyle Cruising allows guests the freedom and flexibility to cruise on their own schedule,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;During this special cruise guide on Fine Living Network, viewers will experience Freestyle Cruising and all it has to offer on our newest ship, Norwegian Gem. We hope that after watching the special, they will want to take their own cruise vacation aboard one of our 12 Freestyle Cruising ships.&quot;</p><p>Viewers will vacation alongside the Walkers and Joey and Joy as they set out on their European cruise on Norwegian Gem. During the cruise, Joey and Joy use the time to unwind and relax from their busy lifestyle with a romantic brunch in the ship\'s French restaurant Le Bistro; a private training session with a personal trainer in the Body Waves Fitness Center; and total relaxation on the ship\'s pool deck with Evian mists and cold towels from poolside attendants.</p><p>The Walkers maximize their time to the fullest with a family bowling tournament in Bliss Ultra Lounge; a relaxing couple\'s spa treatment in the Yin &amp; Yang Spa while the children are playing in the Treetops Kids Club; an entertaining family dinner in the Teppanyaki restaurant; and a performance by the famed Second City comedy troupe in the Stardust Theater.</p><p>While off the ship, they visit unforgettable ports of call including Barcelona, Spain; Valetta, Malta; Naples, Rome and Florence, Italy; and Nice, France. The Walkers opt to explore Rome via an educational experience for their children with NCL\'s Ultimate Touring, allowing them to customize their own private tour of the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, while Joey and Joy decide to take in Malta\'s scenic beauty on their private tour of the island\'s beaches.</p><p>The Ultimate Cruise Guide is scheduled to air again on Fine Living Network (FLN) August 27 at 4 p.m.; August 30 at 11 p.m.; September 12 at 4 p.m.; September 14 at 11 p.m.; and September 24 at 10 p.m. From the makers of HGTV and Food Network, FLN is available nationwide on DirecTV channel 232 and DISH Network channel 113, and on local digital cable. To sample FLN programming, visit www.fineliving.com/TV.</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 (&quot;F3&quot;) 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>','2013-01-19 23:56:58',199,1,1,NULL,NULL,450,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(767,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','Christmas takes an Aussie twist with P&amp;O Cruises','2208456068_7354acf4f7_833070491.jpg','2008-08-13 01:22:00','<p align=\"left\">Holidaymakers can enjoy Christmas with a distinctly Australian twist on P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; Pacific Dawn and Pacific Sun this festive season &ndash; barefoot beach cricket on an idyllic South Pacific island. </p><p align=\"left\">On Christmas Eve, teams of passengers will land on both Isle of Pines and Mystery Island for a game of beach cricket, with the ships&rsquo; crew taking on guests as both sides work off their holiday feasting. </p><p align=\"left\">Back onboard, guests will have the chance to show off their unique talents in front of a supportive home crowd by taking part in special Christmas choirs and traditional Christmas Eve concerts to be held on deck on both ships. </p><p align=\"left\">On Christmas Day, guests can frock-up for a formal gala evening complete with cocktail party amongst an amazing Christmas-themed ice carving display, followed by a traditional five-course Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. </p><p align=\"left\">Cabins are still available on Christmas and New Year sailings from Sydney on Pacific Dawn and from Brisbane on Pacific Sun, with fares including accommodation, all meals and onboard entertainment. </p><p align=\"left\">Jenny Lourey, Senior Vice President of Carnival Australia which operates P&amp;O Cruises in Australia, said taking a holiday away at Christmas was an ideal way to replace stress with pleasure during the busy festive season. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;Our fantastic staff will look after all the cooking and the cleaning, leaving our passengers free to kick up their heels and put the money they saved on their great value cruise towards gifts and exciting new holiday experiences,&quot; Ms Lourey said. </p><p align=\"left\">Festive celebrations on Pacific Dawn begin when she sails from Sydney on December 17, 2008, visiting Noumea and Isle of Pines in New Caledonia, Ouvea in the Loyalty Islands and Vanuatu&rsquo;s Vila and Mystery Island. Fares for the 10-night cruise start from $1495* per person twin share. </p><p align=\"left\">Pacific Sun&rsquo;s nine-night &lsquo;Christmas at Sea&rsquo; departs from Brisbane on December 20, 2008, visiting New Caledonia&rsquo;s Isle of Pines, Ouvea in the Loyalty Islands and Vanuatu&rsquo;s Mystery Island and Vila. Fares start from $1976* per person twin share. </p><p align=\"left\">Fares for Pacific Sun&rsquo;s 12-night New Year cruise start from $2601* per person twin share. Departing Brisbane on December 29, 2008, the voyage includes calls to New Caledonia and Vanuatu. </p><p align=\"left\">Pacific Dawn&rsquo;s 12-night New Year cruise departs Sydney on December 27, 2008, visiting New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Fares start from $2926* per person twin share. </p><p align=\"left\">Sydney-based superliner Pacific Dawn features 11 decks with two swimming pools, a choice of five evening dining areas, nine bars and lounges, &quot;The Dome&quot; entertainment area, a two-storey show lounge and fitness centre. </p><p align=\"left\">Meanwhile Australia&rsquo;s favourite ship, Pacific Sun, provides endless fun with five restaurants and cafes, multiple bars and lounges and two pools for the adults. </p>','2013-01-21 20:56:29',292,1,1,NULL,NULL,457,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(768,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Top Cruise Club','Ocho Rios, Jamaica Adds an Exciting Attraction for Cruise Visitors','2581994720_b722a0f3d4_541407914.jpg','2008-08-13 01:25:00','<p>A country of beautiful beaches, friendly people, and amazing cuisine, Jamaica has a lot to offer its visitors. Because of the many activities available, Jamaica was one of the first islands to be incorporated into many cruise itineraries. To keep up with today&rsquo;s itineraries and onshore activities, Jamaica has recently added an exciting tourist attraction.</p><p><br />The Rainforest Bobsled at Mystic Mountain is Jamaica&rsquo;s new attraction that is estimated to bring in over 100,000 visitors every year. Visitors will be able to ride through the tropical forest at Mystic Mountain in a custom-designed bobsled, inspired by the Jamaican Olympic bobsled teams of the past. Passengers will sled down the 3,280-foot path designed specifically so it would not destroy any of the natural landscape of the rainforest. Jamaica wanted to make sure this was an eco-friendly development. How the ride works: The bobsled will be guided by stainless steal rails through the rainforest, while passengers control their own speed with individual handbrakes.</p><p>Another activity includes a Jamaican Railway Station and Mystic Pavilion. The Railway Station is a replica of the 20th-century station, and includes a lookout tower. Climb the tower to witness amazing views of Jamaica&rsquo;s north coast. Other things to visit at the station are a delightful bar and restaurant, along with retail outlets, and a photography shop. The Mystic Pavilion is a heritage center that allows visitors to learn more about the island&rsquo;s culture.</p><p>If the bobsled ride or railway station do not interest you, this attraction also offers a chairlift ride that takes guests up 700 feet to the peak of Mystic Mountain. The ride also offers breath taking views of this tropical paradise. And finally there is a zip-line canopy tour for all those adventurous travelers wanting to swing from tree to tree.</p><p>Rainforest Bobsled at Mystic Mountain will surely be a popular shore excursion for cruisers visiting Jamaica. In fact, the largest cruise line company, Carnival Corporation, partnered in the development of this amazing multimillion-dollar project. Other cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and more, have signed contracts to offer this excursion for their 2008 to 2009 season. So if you are a cruiser and are planning to visit Ocho Rios, make sure you check out the Rainforest Bobsled at Mystic Mountain excursion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:49:22',316,1,1,NULL,NULL,458,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(769,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Costa Cruises','Costa Cruises celebrate 100th cruise in China','shanghai_720126337.jpg','2008-08-15 13:00:00','<p>The all-Italian cruise company Costa Cruises is the world&rsquo;s first cruise line to sell &lsquo;made in Italy&rsquo; cruises to the Chinese. Costa Cruises Costa Allegra returns to Shanghai for the 2008 summer season to celebrate 100 cruises in China and a new terminal opening.</p><p>Costa Cruises is the first international cruise company to operate regular cruise itineraries in China and in Asia, selling its cruises to the Chinese. The first sailings began on Costa Allegra in July 2006 from Shanghai and since then Costa Cruises have completed 121 cruises in Asia, 100 of which were in China and about 40% from the port of Shanghai.</p><p>Supported by large marketing investments, Costa Cruises has launched its Italian-themed product with success and although the market is still developing are to position a second ship in Asia and China, the Costa Classica.</p><p>Costa Allegra will operate 19 cruises this year in the region, 12 of these departing from Shanghai port and four during the Beijing Olympic Games that will be broadcast on huge screens in the public areas and on stateroom TVs.</p><p>&ldquo;China&rsquo;s cruise market has good growth potential&rdquo; declared Gianni Onorato, President of Costa Cruises. &ldquo;Shanghai together with Tianjin (the port of Beijing) will play an important part in this sector due to their roles as 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 Chin and the results of those decisions have gone beyond our greatest expectations. Since 2006, the Costa Allegra has completed 121 cruises in China and the Far East. Overall, about 75,000 guests have taken a cruise 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. 98.28% of our Chinese guests are satisfied or very satisfied with their Costa cruise.&rdquo;</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:44',230,1,1,NULL,NULL,465,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(770,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Celebrity Cruises','Celebrity Solstice floats out','sostice_771922872.jpg','2008-08-15 13:01:00','<p>Celebrity Cruises newest addition to the fleet Celebrity Solstice has reached another landmark in its constructed process, successfully completing its float out at Germany&rsquo;s Meyer Werft shipyard. Celebrity Solstice will now be docked at the pier where further work will be carried out.</p><p>Celebrity Solstice is due to begin its first sailings in the Caribbean in December 2008. Celebrity Solstice is the first of a new class of Celebrity Cruises ship, with a least a further four new ships in the pipeline. The second ship will be called Celebrity Equinox. Each of the ships will carry 2,850 guests and will feature Celebrity Cruises new style of accommodation, style and indulgent amenities.</p><p>Celebrity Solstice will also introduce a new contemporary class of balcony staterooms called AquaClass.</p>','2013-01-19 23:53:50',443,1,1,NULL,NULL,466,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(771,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Gem to appear on The Ultimate Cruise Guide','gem_192074660.jpg','2008-08-15 13:02:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line&rsquo;s amazing new cruise ship Norwegian Gem is to appear in a Fine Living Network TV special in America. The one hour special is entitled The Ultimate Cruise Guide and will air on 16 August, including a feature on Norwegian Cruise Line&rsquo;s seven day western Mediterranean cruise.</p><p>The programme is a representation of what a typical American family can expect from a family cruise and it will demonstrate the choice of activities and excursions which are on offer. The show will also have top cruising tips and will show viewers insights into the cruise industry.</p><p>Commenting on the programme, Norwegian Cruise Line\'s president and chief executive Colin Veitch said: &quot;During this special cruise guide on Fine Living Network, viewers will experience \'Freestyle Cruising\' and all it has to offer on our newest ship, Norwegian Gem.</p><p>&quot;We hope that after watching the special, they will want to take their own cruise vacation aboard one of our 12 Freestyle Cruising ships.&quot;</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:48',215,1,1,NULL,NULL,459,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(772,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Program Surpasses $1 Million Raised for Susan G. Komen for the Cure','255483021_5b37425e7a_811150906.jpg','2008-08-14 19:03:00','<p>SEATTLE, Aug. 12 &mdash; Holland America Line has surpassed the million-dollar mark in contributions raised for Susan G. Komen for the Cure&reg; via its On Deck for the Cure program, earning it a place on Komen&rsquo;s prestigious Million Dollar Council. The line will celebrate the milestone this week with special receptions and recognition on the ships in its fleet and at its corporate headquarters in Seattle.</p><p>Since the program began in 2006, On Deck for the Cure has raised nearly $1.1 million in support of breast cancer research. Noting the success of the ship-based program, where ship guests make donations for walking laps around the deck, Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, said the company has recently extended their contract with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to continue the On Deck for the Cure program in the years to come. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re overwhelmed with the spirit and generosity of our guests,&rdquo; said Meadows. &ldquo;On every cruise, our guests take time from their holiday to raise money to help fight this disease. Holland America Line is proud to be a vehicle for this most worthy cause.&rdquo;</p><p>Meadows noted that in 2007 one charter group on board the ms Maasdam turned out nearly 800 participants, smashing the previous Holland America Line single walk record of 349 walkers, and the 2008 Grand World Voyage on the ms Amsterdam raised more than $50,000 in its fund-raising walks.</p><p>&ldquo;We are very appreciative of the contribution goals set by Holland America Line,&rdquo; said Katrina McGhee, vice president of marketing, Susan G. Komen for the Cure. &ldquo;Through leveraging the support of staff and guests alike, the company has reached the million dollar mark in less than two years. This is quite unique and an accomplishment achieved by only a few companies in our Million Dollar Council.&rdquo;</p><p>On Deck for the Cure Details<br />Holland America estimates that more than 80,000 guests have participated in more than 1,000 walks on Holland America Line cruises worldwide since the program began in 2006. Participants pledged $15 or more, then simply put their sea legs to good use and walked around the ship&rsquo;s deck for a total of five kilometers. Depending on the ship, guests walk up to 12 laps to reach 5K. Each participant receives an On Deck for the Cure T-shirt and On Deck for the Cure pink wristband as well as an invitation to a pink lemonade party following the walk.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 00:01:29',252,1,1,NULL,NULL,460,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(773,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Silversea Cruises','An International Who’s Who of Bright Minds Will Light Up Silversea’s Grand Pacific Voyage','123_888027707.jpg','2008-08-15 13:06:00','<p><font color=\"#000000\">Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Aug 14 &mdash; Celebrated authors, journalists, historians, commentators, actor-dramatists, filmmakers, an astronaut, marine biologist, Harvard economist, Japanese TV personality, and an officer of arms to the Queen of <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">England</span></font> await guests of Silver Shadow&rsquo;s 92-day Grand Pacific <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Voyage</span></font>, sailing March 7 to June 7, 2009. Departing from <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Los </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Angeles</span></font>, Silver Shadow&rsquo;s Grand Pacific Voyage will follow the mild trade winds of spring as they dry the skies south of the equator, find northern Japan&rsquo;s cherry blossoms in full bloom, and arrive in Alaska as the region awakens from its winter slumber with warmer, longer days. On this epic journey, guests will visit 45 ports, 15 countries and two hemispheres, enjoying overnight stays in <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Bora </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Bora</span></font>, Sydney, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Singapore</span></font>, Ho Chi Minh City, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Hong </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Kong</span></font> and Tokyo.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;Our Grand Pacific Voyage is designed to be a truly extraordinary journey offering broad cultural exploration and intellectual adventure,&rdquo; said Joseph Proto, Silversea&rsquo;s director of <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">world </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">cruise</span></font> and business development. &ldquo;We searched the globe to find just the right professors and distinguished personalities to share their knowledge and insights for the benefit of our inquisitive guests. The result is an impeccable enrichment roster featuring esteemed experts from <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Australia</span></font>, Japan, Great Britain and the United States.&rdquo;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Following are the segments of the Grand Pacific Voyage and a preliminary lineup of guest lecturers:</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3907: &ldquo;Enchanted Polynesia,&rdquo; March 7-23, Los Angeles to Papeete, 16 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Frank McCourt: Author born in Brooklyn, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">New </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">York</span></font>, to Irish immigrant parents, grew up in <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Limerick</span></font>, Ireland, and returned to America in 1949. His first book, Angela&rsquo;s Ashes, a memoir of his childhood in Limerick, won the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Critics Circle Award and the L.A. Times Book Award. The bestselling autobiography was also made into a movie in 1999. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan: Astronaut and first American woman to walk in space, Dr. Sullivan is a veteran of three shuttle missions and a 2004 inductee to the Astronaut Hall of Fame. Her life-long commitment to science education earned her the National Science Board&rsquo;s Public Service Award in 2003 and a presidential appointment to the NSB in 2004. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Dr. George Losey: He received his Ph.D. at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and has studied the behavior and ecology of marine animals throughout the world. An expert in <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">South </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Pacific</span></font> history, culture and marine life, he is an emeritus professor of zoology and marine biology at the University of <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Hawaii</span></font>. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3908: &ldquo;Escape to Dreamland,&rdquo; March 23-April 11, Papeete to <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Sydney</span></font>, 18 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Scott Pearson: After earning a Ph.D. in economics from Harvard University, Pearson taught economic development and international trade at Stanford University. He has spent over four decades studying economic change in developing countries, and won several awards for his research and teaching. Pearson has led university <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">travel </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">groups</span></font> worldwide. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">David O. Frazier &amp; Joe Garry: Actors and dramatists who created fifteen original scripts and performed in theaters from New <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">York</span></font> to Budapest to Bombay. Their award-winning television show, Odysseys and Ovations, a travel and history series, appears on PBS in the U.S. They will present original cabaret-style lectures with a regional focus. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3909: &ldquo;Adventures of the Imagination,&rdquo; April 11-29, Sydney to Singapore, 18 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Bradley Trevor Greive: One of Australia&rsquo;s most successful authors, his books have been published in 115 countries with more than 17 million copies sold. His international bestsellers include Priceless: The vanishing beauty of a fragile planet, The Meaning of Life, A Teaspoon of Courage and The Blue Day Book, which received the 2000 Australian Book of the Year Award. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Dr. Geoffrey Blainey: One of Australia&rsquo;s best-known historians and commentators, Dr. Blainey has authored over 30 books. For 20 years he successively held the chair of economic history and then the Ernest Scott Chair of History at the University of <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Melbourne</span></font>. In 1975 he was made an officer of the Order of Australia and in 2000 became a companion of that Order. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Alastair Bruce of Crionaich: A descendent of Robert the Bruce, he is the author of numerous books on British royalty and a commentator for Britain&rsquo;s Sky News and the BBC. He is also a documentary filmmaker with Days of Majesty, Nicholas and Alexandra, and Victoria and Albert to his name. He is a member of the Queen&rsquo;s Body Guard for <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">Scotland</span></font> and is also an officer of arms to the Queen. Lecture topics will include Captain Cook&rsquo;s adventures as well as the British Empire and Australia. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Michael O&rsquo;Brien: A retired major general in the Australian Defense Force, his interest in history has led to the publication of several books. In 2008, he lead an archaeological dig in northern France, ultimately confirming the most significant British and Australian group burial discovered since World War I. He is an expert on the Pacific region and its history. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3910: &ldquo;Oriental Mystique,&rdquo; April 29-May15, Singapore to <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Tokyo</span></font>, 16 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Elizabeth Kiritani: Author, award-winning journalist and Tokyo television personality, Kiritani has twice received the &ldquo;Nihon Bungei Taisho,&rdquo; a Japanese cultural award for journalism. Her book Vanishing <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Japan</span></font>: Traditions, Crafts &amp; Culture catalogues the small traditions that are still found in Japan, but are disappearing with the modern age. Her lectures celebrate the traditions of Japan. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">John Hartley: Retired Australian Major General Hartley is a graduate of Duntroon&rsquo;s Royal Military College, the University of Queensland and the U.S. Army War College. He served twice in <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Vietnam</span></font>, as a platoon commander and advisor to the South Vietnamese Army, and was wounded three times. His lectures will focus on regional cultural issues and history, as well as military history. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3911: &ldquo;Bridge Across Time,&rdquo; May 15-28, Tokyo to Seward, 14 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Jon Bowermaster: Adventurer extraordinaire, author, filmmaker, and ardent kayaker, he has spent more than 20 years exploring and documenting some of the world&rsquo;s most exotic regions. His Oceans 8 project, designed to explore the world by kayak, has taken him to the Aleutian Islands, Vietnam, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">French </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Polynesia</span></font>, South America&rsquo;s Altiplano, the Antarctic Peninsula and the wild coasts of Gabon, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Croatia</span></font> and Tasmania. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">Stephen Dachi: A foreign policy specialist who served in the U.S. Foreign Service for 30 years, Dachi is currently in charge of <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">South </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Asia</span></font> Area Studies at the U.S. Department of State&rsquo;s Foreign Service Institute. He lectures on political issues at the Elliott School of International Affairs of George Washington University. He also teaches a course on the global economy at Georgetown University. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">VOYAGE 3912: &ldquo;Of Mists and Majesty,&rdquo; May 28-June 7, Seward to <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Vancouver</span></font>, 10 days</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Niki Sepsas: Author and magazine writer with more than 800 articles to his credit that have appeared in over 40 U.S. magazines and newspapers. Sepsas is a contributing author to Chicken Soup for the Soul, a series of bestselling books. His 30-year travel career has taken him to more than 100 countries on six continents around the globe. His adventures include climbing <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Mount </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Kilimanjaro</span></font>, hot-air ballooning across the <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">Serengeti</span></font> and trekking the Australian Outback, to mention a few. </font></li></ul>','2013-01-20 00:02:47',195,1,1,NULL,NULL,461,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(774,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cunard Cruise Line','Cunard’s 2009 World Cruises and Segment Voyages Offer Savvy Travelers a Pinnacle Travel Experience','123_385259643.jpg','2008-08-15 13:09:00','<p>SOUTHAMPTON, England, Aug. 14 &mdash; Today&rsquo;s unfavorable exchange rate is making the quest to travel and see the world more challenging than ever but experienced travelers know that, right now, those same currency fluctuations are making one of travel&rsquo;s ultimate &ldquo;trophy trips&rdquo; more affordable than ever. Priced in US dollars and immune to exchange rate variations, Cunard&rsquo;s World Cruises aboard flagship Queen Mary 2 and the new Queen Victoria, as well as a host of shorter segment voyages that bear all the hallmarks of a classic Cunard World Cruise, combine the tradition, elegance and glamour of the Golden Age of Ocean Travel with compelling itineraries to some of the world&rsquo;s most storied and celebrated ports of call.</p><p>Available fares make Cunard&rsquo;s legendary World Cruises more sensible than comparable five-star travel experiences on land since, at sea, meals and entertainment are included. For travelers without the luxury of time to sail a full World Cruise, both ships offer shorter segment voyages ranging from 15-30 days. Space is still available on some of the most popular segments including Queen Mary 2&rsquo;s 28-day Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles segment; 15-day Los Angeles to Sydney segment; and 31-day Singapore to New York segment.</p><p>&ldquo;More than ever, today&rsquo;s luxury travelers seek experiences that bring both value and meaning to their lives,&rdquo; says Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. &ldquo;Across all levels of accommodation, a Cunard voyage is a pinnacle travel experience which continues to include all gourmet meals, entertainment and enrichment programs.&rdquo;</p><p>Whether guests are onboard for the full World Cruise or a shorter segment voyage, they&rsquo;ll have the opportunity to experience the Line&rsquo;s award-winning Cunard Insights Enrichment Program. Among the speakers scheduled to appear are oceanographer-meteorologist Joe Bishop, astronaut Walter Cunningham, ocean liner authority and color commentator William Miller and adventurer Harvey Mann.</p><p>Queen Mary 2 </p><p>Departing from Ft. Lauderdale simultaneously with her sister ship Queen Victoria on January 13, 2009, Queen Mary 2&rsquo;s Epic Expedition features 26 port calls on five continents. Included is a port call to Alexandria (for Cairo/Giza) affording visits to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Maiden calls include Lima, Peru; Osaka, Japan; Bangkok, Thailand; and Salalah, Oman.</p><p>The ship will journey in a westward direction, sailing around South America to Los Angeles, then across the Pacific Ocean to Honolulu, Hawaii. From there, stops include Pago Pago, American Samoa; Auckland, New Zealand; Sydney, Australia; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The voyage culminates in New York on April 14, 2009.</p><p>Queen Victoria</p><p>Eighteen exciting maiden calls are highlights of Queen Victoria&rsquo;s westbound circumnavigation. Her first-time visits include Apia, Western Samoa; Aqaba (for Petra), Jordan; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Cairns (Yorkey&rsquo;s for the Great Barrier Reef), Australia; Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand; Nagasaki, Japan; Nha Trang, Vietnam; Nuku&rsquo;alofa, Tonga; Phuket, Thailand; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Pusan, South Korea; Rabaul, Papua New Guinea; and Willemstad, Cura&ccedil;ao.</p><p>The ship will transit the Panama Canal and Suez Canal and visit some of the world&rsquo;s most captivating ports, including Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Shanghai, China; and Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, as well as an overnight call in Sydney, Australia. Queen Victoria will also call on the port city of Mormugao in Goa, on the west coast of India, which is known for its pristine beaches and Portuguese architecture; and the charming port city of Hobart, Tasmania, Australia&rsquo;s second oldest city. Her journey concludes in Southampton on April 20, 2009, where guests may opt to continue their voyage with a legendary six-day transatlantic crossing to New York aboard Queen Mary 2.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:11',212,1,1,NULL,NULL,462,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(775,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Gem Focus of Fine Living Network&#039;s Ultimate Cruise Guide','123_166872295.jpg','2008-08-15 13:19:00','<p>Miami - Aug 11, 2008 - Norwegian Gem, NCL\'s newest Freestyle Cruising ship, takes center stage in Fine Living Network\'s new one-hour special: The Ultimate Cruise Guide. The special was filmed during a seven-day Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Norwegian Gem and will premiere on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 10 p.m. EST.</p><p>The show presents a complete guide to everything a viewer needs to know about cruising, featuring insider tips from Norwegian Gem\'s officers and a first-hand look at cruising through the eyes of the Walkers, a family of four from New York with children ages six and 10, and Joey and Joy, a young, professional couple on a romantic getaway, as they explore the ship\'s on-board amenities and NCL shore excursions.</p><p>&quot;NCL\'s Freestyle Cruising allows guests the freedom and flexibility to cruise on their own schedule,&quot; said Colin Veitch, NCL\'s president and CEO. &quot;During this special cruise guide on Fine Living Network, viewers will experience Freestyle Cruising and all it has to offer on our newest ship, Norwegian Gem. We hope that after watching the special, they will want to take their own cruise vacation aboard one of our 12 Freestyle Cruising ships.&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Viewers will vacation alongside the Walkers and Joey and Joy as they set out on their European cruise on Norwegian Gem. During the cruise, Joey and Joy use the time to unwind and relax from their busy lifestyle with a romantic brunch in the ship\'s French restaurant Le Bistro; a private training session with a personal trainer in the Body Waves Fitness Center; and total relaxation on the ship\'s pool deck with Evian mists and cold towels from poolside attendants.</p><p>The Walkers maximize their time to the fullest with a family bowling tournament in Bliss Ultra Lounge; a relaxing couple\'s spa treatment in the Yin &amp; Yang Spa while the children are playing in the Treetops Kids Club; an entertaining family dinner in the Teppanyaki restaurant; and a performance by the famed Second City comedy troupe in the Stardust Theater.</p><p>While off the ship, they visit unforgettable ports of call including Barcelona, Spain; Valetta, Malta; Naples, Rome and Florence, Italy; and Nice, France. The Walkers opt to explore Rome via an educational experience for their children with NCL\'s Ultimate Touring, allowing them to customize their own private tour of the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, while Joey and Joy decide to take in Malta\'s scenic beauty on their private tour of the island\'s beaches.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Ultimate Cruise Guide is scheduled to air again on Fine Living Network (FLN) August 27 at 4 p.m.; August 30 at 11 p.m.; September 12 at 4 p.m.; September 14 at 11 p.m.; and September 24 at 10 p.m. From the makers of HGTV and Food Network, FLN is available nationwide on DirecTV channel 232 and DISH Network channel 113, and on local digital cable. To sample FLN programming, visit <a href=\"http://www.fineliving.com/TV\">www.fineliving.com/TV</a>.</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 (&quot;F3&quot;) 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>','2013-01-19 23:56:10',163,1,1,NULL,NULL,463,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(776,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Trista and Ryan Sutter to Christen Princess Cruises&#039; Ruby Princess','123_787261532.jpg','2008-08-15 13:24:00','<p>SANTA CLARITA, CA -- August 13, 2008 -- In celebration of National Romance Week,* Princess Cruises announced today that celebrity couple Trista and Ryan Sutter will christen the newest cruise ship in the Princess fleet, Ruby Princess, on November 6 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The Sutters, who met on ABC\'s hit reality series, The Bachelorette, the most romantic franchise on TV since the Love Boat, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this fall, and will mark this milestone event during the Ruby Princess inaugural, which will be themed around &quot;romantic moments and milestones.&quot; </p><p>Trista and Ryan are one of the best-known romantic duos in recent broadcast history, as they are the first and only couple from the The Bachelor and Bachelorette franchises who have actually gotten married. The Sutters also recently celebrated the first birthday of their son, Max.</p><p>&quot;Princess Cruises has long stood for romance and reconnection, and so we\'re delighted to have Trista and Ryan christen Ruby Princess as they celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary,&quot; said Jan Swartz, senior vice president for Princess Cruises. &quot;While slightly unconventional, their courtship and marriage was exciting to watch as it unfolded, and we think their fascinating love story epitomizes our inaugural theme of celebrating romantic moments and milestones.&quot; </p><p>Trista and Ryan Sutter met in 2002, when she was America\'s first Bachelorette. The Bachelor and The Bachelorette on ABC-TV were the first and are still the most popular reality dating shows in which one man or woman searches for their soul mate out of 25 potential suitors. Over the course of the show, the bachelorette bestows roses on those bachelors she wishes to continue dating. Trista presented Ryan with her final rose and he then proposed on the show\'s finale in November 2002. The couple wed on December 6, 2003 in an elaborate television ceremony watched by 26 million viewers, making it one of the most widely viewed episodes in the history of reality TV and one of ABC\'s top rated shows of the year. After their highly visible courtship, Trista and Ryan moved to Vail, CO, where they currently reside with their son, Max. In addition to frequent TV interviews and promotional appearances, he is a firefighter and she is a stay-at-home mom and designer for her new diaper bag line, Trista Baby.</p><p>&quot;We\'re incredibly honored to be invited to be the godparents of Ruby Princess,&quot; said Trista Sutter. &quot;It\'s hard to believe that it\'s been five years since we got married. This is a wonderful way to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and also to remind people about the importance of marking not only the key milestones in a relationship, but also making time to incorporate romance into our everyday lives. We are so excited to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!&quot; </p><p>The 3,070-passenger Ruby Princess includes a dramatic piazza-style atrium featuring small-bite eateries and an ever-changing array of performing street entertainers. Passengers will also enjoy Princess\' other array of dining venues including the signature Sabatini\'s Italian trattoria and the Crown Grill steak and seafood restaurant, plus a relaxing oasis just for adults called The Sanctuary.</p><p><br />The new cruise ship will also offer the many other innovations that define the Princess experience, including the popular Movies Under the Stars poolside movie screen, Personal Choice Dining featuring traditional or Anytime seating, multiple entertainment venues, a relaxing Asian-style Lotus Spa with fitness center, an extensive children and teen\'s center, a wedding chapel and nearly 900 staterooms with private balconies -- perfect for enjoying a scenic Caribbean islands cruise.</p><p>During Ruby Princess\' inaugural season she will make seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale, FL to the Western Caribbean. Calls include Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. Next spring the ship will move to Europe for 12-day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:59:48',273,1,1,NULL,NULL,464,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'America&#039;s Most Romantic Couple Celebrates Fifth Wedding Anniversary Milestone by Naming Newest &quot;Love Boat&quot; ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(778,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Cruise Lines to Increase Capacity in Mobile by 42 Percent With Deployment of Carnival Fantasy in Fall 2009','se_330_535455395.jpg','2008-08-21 04:50:00','<font size=\"3\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\">Carnival Cruise Lines &ndash; which operates the only year-round cruise program from New Orleans &ndash; will increase capacity by 34 percent when the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph replaces the 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy from the Big Easy in November 2009.<span></span></font></font> <p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>In addition to providing an exciting new &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; cruise option from New Orleans, Carnival Triumph will introduce new seven-day eastern and exotic western Caribbean schedules to complement the line&rsquo;s popular four- and five-day cruises to Mexico.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s seven-day cruises will depart on Saturdays, with exotic western Caribbean voyages visiting Belize City; Isla Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel; and eastern Caribbean cruises calling at Key West, Freeport and Nassau.<span>&nbsp; </span>Four-day cruises will depart Thursdays to Cozumel, while five-day cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays to Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Carnival Triumph will operate 65 departures annually from New Orleans, carrying approximately 200,000 passengers &ndash; the most of any cruise line. Carnival Fantasy, which currently sails from New Orleans, will be deployed to Mobile, Ala., to operate four- and five-day cruises beginning in November 2009. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re very pleased to bring a newer, larger ship to New Orleans as well as expand our operations with new seven-day western Caribbean itineraries that will provide exciting new &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo; vacation options,&rdquo; said Terry Thornton, Carnival&rsquo;s senior vice president of marketing planning.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;In addition to serving as an excellent homeport for Carnival for nearly 15 years, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination and we&rsquo;re delighted to continue our relationship with this wonderful city,&rdquo; he added. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;The Port and the entire New Orleans tourism community is thrilled by Carnival&rsquo;s decision to homeport the Carnival Triumph here,&rdquo; said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;This community has demonstrated its resilience and proven once again it is an international tourist destination.<span>&nbsp; </span>This business decision by a valued partner such as Carnival only reiterates the bright future of cruising in New Orleans.&rdquo;</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><strong>Four- to Seven-Day Cruises from New Orleans</strong></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Carnival Triumph will make its New Orleans debut with a special four-day cruise departing Tuesday, Nov. 10, then launch its new year-round four-, five- and seven-day schedule beginning with a weeklong voyage departing Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Four-day Carnival Triumph cruises departing Thursdays visit Cozumel, a 308-square-mile island offering world-class beaches, myriad watersports and a diversity of restaurants, shops and nightspots. Five-day cruises departing Mondays and Saturdays feature both Cozumel and Progreso, located along Mexico&rsquo;s Yucatan peninsula offering access to centuries-old ruins and archeological sites, including Chitzen Itza, recently named one of Seven Wonders of the World.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Seven-day exotic western Caribbean cruises departing Saturdays visit Belize, a tropical paradise where guests can visit Mayan ruins and enjoy myriad eco-tourism opportunities; and Isla Roatan, a breathtaking Honduran island distinguished by gorgeous white-sand beaches and lush countryside. A daylong visit to Cozumel rounds out this weeklong itinerary. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The eastern Caribbean route will feature Key West, the southernmost city in the U.S. known for its excellent shopping and watersports and perpetually laid back atmosphere.<span>&nbsp; </span>The itinerary also includes two popular Bahamian ports &ndash; Freeport, the island chain&rsquo;s second largest city offering stunning beaches and exciting golfing, shopping and dining opportunities; and Nassau, the bustling capital known for outstanding duty-free bargains, beautiful beaches and historical landmarks. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><strong>A Truly Magnificent &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo;</strong> </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph offers a host of resort-style facilities and features: a 14,500-square-foot spa, a jogging track, ship-wide Wi-Fi access and cell phone service, a duty-free shopping mall, and three restaurants, including twin two-level main dining rooms with extensive menus and wine lists and a 1,200-seat casual eatery with full breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets and a 24-hour pizzeria.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Also featured are 18 themed lounges and bars &ndash; including a wine bar, sports bar, piano bar and a multi-level theatre showcasing lavish revues &ndash; all with dramatic interiors inspired by the world&rsquo;s most famous bodies of water. A golf program offering professional instruction and opportunities to play top Caribbean courses is available, as well. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Family friendly amenities include programming for children in three age groups &ndash; &ldquo;Camp Carnival&rdquo; for youngsters, &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; for 12- to 14-year olds, and &ldquo;Club O2&rdquo; for older teens &ndash; with activities and facilities dedicated to each.<span>&nbsp; </span>Additionally, Carnival Triumph offers a variety of accommodations, including a wide selection of balcony staterooms and suites.<span>&nbsp; </span>All staterooms feature the exclusive Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.</span></span></p>','2013-01-20 00:00:45',215,1,1,NULL,NULL,467,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(779,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Cruise Line Selected by Condé Nast Traveler as a Leader In Social Responsibility','123_741963602.jpg','2008-08-21 13:52:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has been named a finalist in Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler magazine&rsquo;s 2008 World Savers Awards. The awards honor 38 travel companies from around the world for their leadership in social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation and health.</p><p>The 2008 World Savers Awards are featured in the September issue of Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler, which hit newsstands on Tuesday, August 19. The World Savers Awards finalists will be recognized during an award ceremony on September 23, 2008, at the 2nd Annual Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler World Savers Congress in New York City.</p><p>&ldquo;Sustaining maritime ecosystems is among NCL&rsquo;s highest priorities,&rdquo; said Colin Veitch, NCL&rsquo;s CEO. &ldquo;The protection of the oceans on which NCL makes its living is of paramount importance to the company and so it is with great pride that we accept this recognition from Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler for our efforts.&rdquo;</p><p>Last year, the company recycled 96 tons of cardboard, 206 tons of wood pallets, 275 cubic meters of cooking oil, 364 tons of plastics, 909 tons of scrap metal, and 1,813 tons of glass. This recycling effort avoided manufacturing from virgin materials, which further conserved precious natural resources. NCL also managed 253 tons of trash and food waste at a Waste-to-Energy (WTE) facility which generated enough electricity to fulfill the monthly needs of more than 575 homes.</p><p>In 2007 alone, the recycling program saved 2,200 mature trees, 2,300 gallons of gas and 672,000 gallons of water. This translates to enough saved timber resources to produce more than 27.28 million sheets of newspaper; enough gasoline to drive more than 64,500 miles; and enough fresh water to meet the daily fresh water needs of more than 8,960 people.</p><p>NCL began recycling used cooking oil from its ships at the Port of Miami in early 2007. More than 15,000 gallons of used cooking oil have been offloaded and donated to an organic farmer in Vero Beach, Fla., who converted the oil to 870 gallons of usable bio-diesel for his farming equipment.</p><p>NCL pioneered the recycling of used lube oil, and routinely recycles plastics, aluminum, steel, batteries, oil sludge, and a wide variety of consumer products. NCL ships recycle whenever and wherever it is feasible.</p><p>The company has invested heavily, not just on new environmental protection technology, but also on a shore-side environmental department and has placed trained environmental officers on board every NCL ship. The company has also undertaken environmental training for all of its crew members, who make it a priority to separate recyclable materials from regular waste on board.</p><p>Each of NCL&rsquo;s ships has state-of-the-art solid and liquid waste processing equipment on-board. The Advanced Wastewater Treatment System has been described as better than most land-based systems and the effluent from the system meets even the most stringent discharge standards of the U.S. Coast Guard and the State of Alaska.</p><p>NCL tries to instill positive environmental habits amongst its young cruisers. Children who participate in Kid&rsquo;s Crew can learn about the importance of clean water, and the effects and prevention of marine pollution through Officer Snook&rsquo;s Water Pollution Program. Elements of the program are incorporated into the NCL Kid&rsquo;s Crew and include activities for kids of all ages. For kids ages 2-5, there are story-telling, coloring books and games. For pre-teens, there are crafts, a simulated &ldquo;Beach Clean Up&rdquo; activity, a &ldquo;Catch or Release&rdquo; game identifying endangered species, and an environmental poster contest. The program&rsquo;s teen component allows high school students to earn between one and five community service hours depending on their level of involvement in the program. These hours may be used at the teen&rsquo;s school as part of their community service allotment.</p><p>In 2008, Norwegian Pearl received the Port of San Francisco&rsquo;s Cruise Ship Environmental Award and in 2007, Norwegian Sun was honored with the same award. The Port&rsquo;s program recognizes annually those cruise ships whose on-board environmental systems help decrease air and water pollution.</p><p>World Savers Awards Methodology: To determine the award finalists and winners, Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler editors reviewed 142 applications and narrowed them to 38 finalists. An independent panel of 17 judges, comprised of leaders from the travel industry and non-governmental organizations, rated how applicants exercised social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation and health. There were seven categories of travel companies: airlines, cruise lines, hotel chains, individual city hotels, large resorts, small resorts, and tour operators.</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. 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>','2013-01-19 23:52:19',298,1,1,NULL,NULL,468,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(780,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Romantic christening of Ruby Princess','sutters_490424455.jpg','2008-08-21 13:54:00','<p>It has been revealed that Princess Cruises newest ship, Ruby Princess, is to be named by a couple who met very publicly on America&rsquo;s reality TV show The Bachelorette.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The announcement came from Princess Cruises during National Romance Week. Trista and Ryan Sutter (above) are to christen the newest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, Ruby Princess, on the 6 November 2008 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Sutter&rsquo;s met on ABC&rsquo;s reality series, The Bacherlorette, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this autumn and will mark the even during the Ruby Princess inaugural, which will be themed around &lsquo;romantic moments and milestones&rsquo;. Trista and Ryan are one of the best-known romantic duos in recent broadcast history, as they are the first and only couple from the The Bachelor and Bachelorette franchises who have actually gotten married. The Sutters also recently celebrated the first birthday of their son, Max.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&quot;We\'re incredibly honored to be invited to be the godparents of Ruby Princess,&quot; said Trista Sutter. &quot;It\'s hard to believe that it\'s been five years since we got married. This is a wonderful way to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and also to remind people about the importance of marking not only the key milestones in a relationship, but also making time to incorporate romance into our everyday lives. We are so excited to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 3,070 passenger Ruby Princess includes a host of favourite Princess Cruises innovations that define the Princess experience and well as many new additions, such as the dramatic piazza-style atrium and the adults only area called The Sanctuary.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During Ruby Princess&rsquo; inaugural season she will make seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale to the Western Caribbean, with calls at Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. Next spring Princess Cruises Ruby Princess will move to Europe for 12 day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands.</p>','2013-01-19 23:52:40',232,1,1,NULL,NULL,469,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(781,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','MSC Cruises','MSC Cruises placed order for two new ships','msc_406045096.jpg','2008-08-21 04:56:00','<p>MSC Cruises are once more expanding their fleet with a new order placed with Aker Yards in St. Nazair France for two Musica class ships which will be due for delivery February 2011 and February 2012.</p><p><br />Aker Yards have produced many of the ships currently in MSC Cruises fleet, including the most recent additions MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia and the soon to be launched MSC Fantasia and Splendida.</p><p><br />MSC Cruises are looking to expand their fleet by one ship a year which considering the current economic pressure is a positive move. The new ships on order with Aker Yards will be for the Musica class and are approximately 89,000 tonnes and will carry 3000 passengers. The newest ships on order with be the fifth and sixth in the class, with MSC Magnifica due to launch in 2010 the fourth.</p><p><br />The most recent ships to be introduced to the fleet are MSC Fantasia due to be launched in Naples in December and MSC Splendida will be launching in 2009.</p>','2013-01-20 00:00:24',266,1,1,NULL,NULL,470,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(782,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Royal Caribbean Partner with AAA on Oasis of the Seas','news_rc_oasis_CP1_big_396551074.jpg','2008-08-21 13:57:00','<p>Royal Caribbean International is partnering with AAA Travel to unveil more about the upcoming Oasis of the Seas. The new features will be revealed during an online virtual travel show on Aug. 26. Royal Caribbean is a AAA preferred cruise travel partner. The Oasis of the Seas, which will set sail in November, will be the world\'s largest cruise ship and the first to include themed areas called neighborhoods. </p><p>The neighborhoods that have been previously announced are the family-themed Boardwalk, a sky-lit section called Royal Promenade, and Central Park, a tropical area the length of a football field. </p><p>During the online travel show, Royal Caribbean will release details of the next two neighborhoods of the Oasis of the Seas as well as exclusive promotions being offered through AAA Travel. Consumers can register for the virtual show at <a href=\"http://go.virtualtradeshowslive.com/AAAOasis\">http://go.virtualtradeshowslive.com/AAAOasis</a>. For more information, visit <a href=\"http://www.aaa.com/\">www.AAA.com</a> or <a href=\"http://www.royalcaribbean.com/\">www.royalcaribbean.com</a>. </p>','2013-01-19 23:57:28',350,1,1,NULL,NULL,471,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(783,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Trade','Carnival Recasts Stateroom Categories for Easier Upselling','123_798220062.jpg','2008-08-21 13:59:00','<span class=\"article_text\">Carnival Cruise Lines will launch an extensive stateroom recategorization encompassing the entire &quot;Fun Ship&quot; fleet, with the Carnival Valor the first ship to feature the new accommodation categories effective Monday, Aug. 18. The balance of the fleet will be recategorized by the end of 2008. <p>Under the reclassification of stateroom categories, Carnival\'s accommodations will now be categorized based on a variety of locations such as midship, aft and forward, as well as proximity to key public areas and specific deck. </p><p>&quot;The change more clearly defines our available stateroom categories based on location and features and will enable guests to easily identify the category that best suits their specific needs and preferences,&quot; said Lynn C. Torrent, Carnival\'s senior vice president of sales and guest services. </p><p>&quot;For travel agents, a greater variety of cabin categories and smaller pricing gap between categories will create additional up-selling opportunities,&quot; she added. </p><p>The main focus of the recategorization is on guests\' experience and their ability to select staterooms for their needs - close to the pool, dining room, children\'s facilities, connecting staterooms for families. </p><p>The new category plan makes it more affordable for guests to buy up, because there are more categories and the price differential is pretty minimal, according to a Carnival spokesperson. </p><p>The deck still factors in the stateroom categories but the location within each deck is also a factor. The new categories will help define staterooms more specifically with more segmentation in terms of categories that hone in on the location within each deck. </p><p>Cabin assignments and pricing on existing reservations will not be affected. </p><p>To familiarize travel agents with the new stateroom categories, a Webinar is available via www.GoCCL.com</p></span>','2013-01-19 23:53:03',192,1,1,NULL,NULL,474,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(784,7,1,'vivvo@localhost','Brian Chan, Online Casino Sphere','Gambling Boat Leaves Port Permanently','123_134513732.jpg','2008-08-21 14:01:00','FT. LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA -- The gambling landscape continues to change in south Florida as a venue that, until recently, had been one of the only outlets for casino play has found itself pushed from the market. SeaEscape, a cruise ship that docked at Ft. Lauderdale, will run from Port Everglades for the last time Sunday.<br /><br />Since 1987, the ship has provided half-day cruises to nowhere, traveling out past the legal limit so that patrons could enjoy slots, blackjack, and other forms of casino gambling. As those games were not available anywhere on land, the ship did a consistent business.<br /><br />Now, with advent of full casino gambling at the Seminole casinos and Vegas-style slots at the area\'s horse and dog tracks, SeaEscape has felt the pinch. Just since the 1st of the year, passengers are down almost 12 percent. <br /><br />Not able to fend off the challenges presented by the troublesome economy, skyrocketing fuel costs, and the explosive growth of competition, the cruise ship\'s management has decided a move from Broward County may prove beneficial.<br /><br />Rumors abound that the ship will be settling in soon at a port somewhere else in Florida; the land gambling proliferation is concentrated in the Broward area, and distance from there might allow the boat to turn a profit once again. ','2013-01-23 06:02:30',1217,2,1,NULL,NULL,473,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(785,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Cruise Lines to Expand Capacity in New Orleans by 34 Percent With Deployment of Carnival Triumph in Nov. 2009','123_153246899.jpg','2008-08-21 14:07:00','<font size=\"3\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\">Carnival Cruise Lines &ndash; which operates the only year-round cruise program from New Orleans &ndash; will increase capacity by 34 percent when the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph replaces the 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy from the Big Easy in November 2009.<span></span></font></font> <p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>In addition to providing an exciting new &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; cruise option from New Orleans, Carnival Triumph will introduce new seven-day eastern and exotic western Caribbean schedules to complement the line&rsquo;s popular four- and five-day cruises to Mexico.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s seven-day cruises will depart on Saturdays, with exotic western Caribbean voyages visiting Belize City; Isla Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel; and eastern Caribbean cruises calling at Key West, Freeport and Nassau.<span>&nbsp; </span>Four-day cruises will depart Thursdays to Cozumel, while five-day cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays to Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Carnival Triumph will operate 65 departures annually from New Orleans, carrying approximately 200,000 passengers &ndash; the most of any cruise line. Carnival Fantasy, which currently sails from New Orleans, will be deployed to Mobile, Ala., to operate four- and five-day cruises beginning in November 2009. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re very pleased to bring a newer, larger ship to New Orleans as well as expand our operations with new seven-day western Caribbean itineraries that will provide exciting new &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo; vacation options,&rdquo; said Terry Thornton, Carnival&rsquo;s senior vice president of marketing planning.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;In addition to serving as an excellent homeport for Carnival for nearly 15 years, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination and we&rsquo;re delighted to continue our relationship with this wonderful city,&rdquo; he added. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;The Port and the entire New Orleans tourism community is thrilled by Carnival&rsquo;s decision to homeport the Carnival Triumph here,&rdquo; said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;This community has demonstrated its resilience and proven once again it is an international tourist destination.<span>&nbsp; </span>This business decision by a valued partner such as Carnival only reiterates the bright future of cruising in New Orleans.&rdquo;</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><strong>Four- to Seven-Day Cruises from New Orleans</strong></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Carnival Triumph will make its New Orleans debut with a special four-day cruise departing Tuesday, Nov. 10, then launch its new year-round four-, five- and seven-day schedule beginning with a weeklong voyage departing Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Four-day Carnival Triumph cruises departing Thursdays visit Cozumel, a 308-square-mile island offering world-class beaches, myriad watersports and a diversity of restaurants, shops and nightspots. Five-day cruises departing Mondays and Saturdays feature both Cozumel and Progreso, located along Mexico&rsquo;s Yucatan peninsula offering access to centuries-old ruins and archeological sites, including Chitzen Itza, recently named one of Seven Wonders of the World.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Seven-day exotic western Caribbean cruises departing Saturdays visit Belize, a tropical paradise where guests can visit Mayan ruins and enjoy myriad eco-tourism opportunities; and Isla Roatan, a breathtaking Honduran island distinguished by gorgeous white-sand beaches and lush countryside. A daylong visit to Cozumel rounds out this weeklong itinerary. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The eastern Caribbean route will feature Key West, the southernmost city in the U.S. known for its excellent shopping and watersports and perpetually laid back atmosphere.<span>&nbsp; </span>The itinerary also includes two popular Bahamian ports &ndash; Freeport, the island chain&rsquo;s second largest city offering stunning beaches and exciting golfing, shopping and dining opportunities; and Nassau, the bustling capital known for outstanding duty-free bargains, beautiful beaches and historical landmarks. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><strong>A Truly Magnificent &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo;</strong> </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph offers a host of resort-style facilities and features: a 14,500-square-foot spa, a jogging track, ship-wide Wi-Fi access and cell phone service, a duty-free shopping mall, and three restaurants, including twin two-level main dining rooms with extensive menus and wine lists and a 1,200-seat casual eatery with full breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets and a 24-hour pizzeria.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Also featured are 18 themed lounges and bars &ndash; including a wine bar, sports bar, piano bar and a multi-level theatre showcasing lavish revues &ndash; all with dramatic interiors inspired by the world&rsquo;s most famous bodies of water. A golf program offering professional instruction and opportunities to play top Caribbean courses is available, as well. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Family friendly amenities include programming for children in three age groups &ndash; &ldquo;Camp Carnival&rdquo; for youngsters, &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; for 12- to 14-year olds, and &ldquo;Club O2&rdquo; for older teens &ndash; with activities and facilities dedicated to each.<span>&nbsp; </span>Additionally, Carnival Triumph offers a variety of accommodations, including a wide selection of balcony staterooms and suites.<span>&nbsp; </span>All staterooms feature the exclusive Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.</span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:55:46',230,1,1,NULL,NULL,475,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(786,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','A Triumph For The Big Easy','123_277803019.jpg','2008-08-21 14:11:00','<p><font size=\"3\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During a press conference held at the Port of New Orleans, Carnival Cruise Lines- which offers the only year-round service from New Orleans- announced the deployment of the Carnival Triumph to the Big Easy in early November 2009.&nbsp;<span>&nbsp;</span></font></font></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Carnival Triumph will replace the Carnival Fantasy and will introduce new seven-day eastern and exotic western Caribbean schedules to complement the line&rsquo;s popular four- and five-day cruises to Mexico.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span></span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s seven-day cruises will depart on Saturdays, with exotic western Caribbean voyages visiting Belize City; Isla Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel; and eastern Caribbean cruises calling at Key West, Freeport and Nassau.<span>&nbsp; </span>Four-day cruises will depart Thursdays to Cozumel, while five-day cruises will depart Mondays and Saturdays to Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Reservations are currently being accepted for the Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s new four- to seven-day cruises from New Orleans.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>Pictured here at the press conference is Carnival Cruise Lines&rsquo; Senior Vice President of Marketing Planning Terry Thornton; in the background from left to right is Port of New Orleans&rsquo; President and CEO Gary LaGrange and Lieutenant Governor for the State of Louisiana Mitch Landrieu.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:56:16',157,1,1,NULL,NULL,472,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(787,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Princess Cruises “Heart of Alaska” Video Wins “Best Cinematography” Award','luxury_princess_cruise_5532_504155846.jpg','2008-08-25 00:49:00','<p>SANTA CLARITA, CA, Aug 21 - In addition to the widespread praise already received from the film and travel communities, Princess Cruises&rsquo; &ldquo;The Heart of Alaska&rdquo; video has earned a special level of recognition by winning the &ldquo;Best Cinematography&rdquo; award at the New York Independent Film &amp; Video Festival, one of the largest independent film festivals in the world. &ldquo;The Heart of Alaska&rdquo; beat out nearly 100 Best Film entries for the prestigious award at the festival&rsquo;s recent Los Angeles competition.</p><p>&ldquo;The Heart of Alaska&rdquo; is a unique high-definition documentary that showcases the Princess cruisetour experience by beautifully depicting the land, wildlife and people of Alaska with dramatic visuals and music. The 26-minute film, photographed and directed by Princess video producer Scott Martin, features fascinating interviews with some of the people who make the state unique, as they tell their stories of life in the untamed wilderness of Alaska&rsquo;s interior.</p><p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re delighted that the judges at the New York Independent Film &amp; Video Festival recognized how superbly this film was photographed,&rdquo; said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises senior vice president. &ldquo;&lsquo;The Heart of Alaska&rsquo; may well be the most unique cruise destination video in the industry because it uses a documentary style to tell its story through local voices. With stunning photography and music, it&rsquo;s just like something you&rsquo;d find on a nature channel&hellip; or in a theater.&rdquo;</p><p>Viewers meet rangers from both Denali and Wrangell-St. Elias National Parks, Alaska natives, homesteaders and dog mushers who share an insiders&rsquo; perspective of life in the 49th state. Other voices include a bush pilot, a captain from Fairbanks&rsquo; iconic riverboat and a mountain climber. 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&rsquo;s tallest peaks, including &ldquo;The Great One,&rdquo; Mt. McKinley.</p><p>&ldquo;The Heart of Alaska&rdquo; is the first in a series of Princess videos offering a unique look at the company&rsquo;s destinations. It can be purchased aboard the line&rsquo;s Alaska ships or at any of Princess&rsquo; five Alaska wilderness lodges. Princess is a leader in Alaska vacations, giving travelers the opportunity to combine a cruise with rail and wilderness lodge options to experience the top highlights of this majestic state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:58:07',145,1,1,NULL,NULL,476,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(788,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Goes Mobile With Website','mobile_device_817070310.jpg','2008-08-25 00:52:00','<p>SEATTLE, Aug. 21 &mdash; Holland America Line now has a mobile friendly version of its website, <a href=\"http://www.hollandamerica.com/\">www.hollandamerica.com</a>, for all devices able to connect to the internet.</p><p>&ldquo;More and more people are using mobile devices to get things done when traveling, while waiting in line, and at other so-called down times,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;So, our new accessibility will allow them to check details and plan a cruise wherever they are.&rdquo;</p><p>Web surfers will be automatically redirected to the new mobile site if a user accesses the site from a mobile device. To mobilize the site, images were removed and layouts simplified for use on a mobile device.</p><p>The most popular areas of <a href=\"http://www.hollandamerica.com/\">www.hollandamerica.com</a> have been adapted for mobile use. These include the research tools Cruise and CruiseTour Finder to find travel options and pricing, ports information to look up such things as departure port details and directions while in a cab, a complete For Booked Guests section for current cruisers, and the ability for past guests to look up their Mariner Society number on-line. A special phone number is listed for those who want to call in and book from their mobile device, too, since bookings cannot be made through the mobile website.</p><p>Surfers can choose to view the complete site with full images and options from their mobile device, too.</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:05',155,1,1,NULL,NULL,477,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(789,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Grand Cayman plays host to two Royal Caribbean ships','grand_cayman_590918445.jpg','2008-08-25 00:56:00','<p>The Grand Cayman Islands were home to a momentous occasion last week when two Royal Caribbean Cruise ships called into the port at the same time. There were over 9,000 passengers that disembarked from the Royal Caribbean ships with over a third of them being children.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Royal Caribbean ships cater for children extremely well with a huge variety of fun activities and youth programmes geared towards children from 6 months to 17 years old. Children onboard Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s Freedom of the Seas would have been enjoying the Nickelodeon themed cruise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Guests who disembarked at Grand Cayman were amazed by the warm welcome they received and locals had organised music and cultural displays, as well as a treasure hunt for the children.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trina Christian, Executive Director of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) commented: &quot;CITA looks forward to future endeavours of this nature that align with our cruise sector goals and our general Association objective to provide more opportunity for converting cruise passengers are into return overnight visitors.&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There is a vast array of attractions in Grand Cayman, including learning about the turtles that live here, visiting the town of Hell, exploring Seven Mile Beach and enjoying the undersea world with some snorkeling or scuba diving. Other highlights are Grand Cayman Botanic Park and the Cayman Islands National Museum.</p>','2013-01-19 23:55:55',210,1,1,NULL,NULL,479,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(790,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','First ever National Cruise Week','cruise_265147104.jpg','2008-08-25 00:57:00','<p>The UK&rsquo;s first ever National Cruise Week will take place next month, with travel companies from across the UK teaming up to promote the vast diversity of cruise holidays.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>National Cruise Week will take place between 7 September to the 14 September with over 2,000 travel agents and tour operators organising events aimed at promoting world cruises and advertising the variety of packages and itineraries available.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Andy Harmer, business development director of the Association of Cruise Experts, said that cruising has become &quot;ever more popular&quot; of late.</p><p>&quot;National Cruise Week is a great way to show that there really is a cruise for everyone. The choice now offered by companies is immense &ndash; there is a cruise to suit all ages and all pockets, you can find intimacy or full-on fun, snow or sun, desert or jungle, relaxation or activity, the choice is truly endless,&quot; he explained.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It has been reported by the Press Association this week that the cruise sector is anticipated to grow by 14 per cent this year as more and more people take to the seas for their holidays.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are a number of popular cruise companies operating from the UK including Royal Caribbean Cruises, P&amp;O Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.</p>','2013-01-19 23:57:40',201,1,1,NULL,NULL,480,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(791,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','NCL a World Savers Awards finalist','ncl_509970102.jpg','2008-08-25 00:58:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line has been named as a finalist in Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler magazine&rsquo;s 2008 World Savers Awards. The awards focus on 38 travel companies from around the world who have lead the way in social responsibility in the following five areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation and health.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The list of finalists is detailed in the September issue of Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler magazine which was available to buy on newsstands Tuesday 19 August. The World Savers Awards will be presented during an award ceremony on 23 September at the 2nd annual Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler World Savers congress in New York City.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Norwegian Cruise Line last year recycled 96 tons of cardboard, 206 tons of wood pallets, 275 cubic meters of cooking oil; 364 tons of plastics, 909 tons of scrap metal, and 1,813 tons of glass. NCL also recycle used cooking oil from its ship at the Port of Miami, more than 15,000 gallons of it was offloaded and donated to an organic farmer in Vero Beach, Florida who converted the oil to 870 gallons of useable bio-diesel for his farming equipment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>NCL ships recycle whenever and wherever it is possible. They have invested heaving and not just on new environmental protection technology but also on a shore-side environmental departed and on every ship there is a trained environmental officer. Every one of NCL&rsquo;s ships has a state-of-the-art solid and liquid waste processing equipment on board.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&ldquo;Sustaining maritime ecosystems is among NCL&rsquo;s highest priorities,&rdquo; said Colin Veitch, NCL&rsquo;s CEO. &ldquo;The protection of the oceans on which NCL makes its living is of paramount importance to the company and so it is with great pride that we accept this recognition from Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler for our efforts.&rdquo;</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:27',145,1,1,NULL,NULL,481,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(792,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Trade','Carnival May Roll Out Three Dining Options','123_335653672.jpg','2008-08-25 00:59:00','<span class=\"article_text\">Carnival Cruise Lines probably will introduce three dining options on its ships: traditional seatings at 6 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. and a third open seating, Carnival president and CEO Gerry Cahill told travel agents on the America\'s Vacation Center Travel Executive Forum today. <p>He and Carnival senior vice president of sales and guest services Lynn Torrent provided agents with an overview on Carnival and the industry and then answered their questions. </p><p>Responding to an agent\'s question about dining, Cahill said that Carnival has been testing the open seating option on the Carnival Legend and if its tests continue to be successful with passengers, the new plan probably will be rolled out fleetwide over the next year. </p><p>He said that guests in surveys say they love the traditional dining experience -- &quot;Ratings have been extraordinarily high,&quot; said Cahill -- where they get to know their fellow passengers and waiter and assistant waiter but that the line wanted to test the open dining option to appeal to new customers. </p><p>Asked about Carnival\'s long-term plans, Cahill told agents that &quot;we are not going to change our stripes.&quot; Carnival he said, will continue to be focused on providing &quot; fun, quality vacations to middle America. We do it well and we want to do it better.&quot; </p><p>So the line plans to introduce more onboard options and activities - &quot;more ways for people to have fun&quot; -- and will continue to &quot;upgrade the quality and consistency of product.&quot; The line is currently working on a number of projects to enhance the Carnival experience . </p><p>Cahill added that Carnival &quot;wants to be hassle free&quot; for agents to deal with and the line will invest in enhancing its systems to that end. And Torrent noted that the travel agent portal bookccl.com has been enhanced and will introduce new agent tools going forward. </p><p>Carnival\'s own Web videos, said Torrent, who hosts them, are designed to educate agents about the Carnival product and sales and support services. &quot;Thousands and thousands of agents&quot; have watched the Web videos available at bookccl.com, she said, joking with Cahill over who got the larger audience - Cahill or Carnival Corp. &amp; plc chairman and CEO Micky Arison. </p><p>In her overview of the cruise industry, Torrent said that whether or not the economy is in a recession, consumers still want to take their vacations - need their vacations -- and they are turning to cruise vacations because of the value they provide. </p><p>She thanked agents for getting that value message out to the market and noted that the cruise industry in general gets extremely high satisfaction ratings from guests and continually works hard to meet their needs. </p><p>Fuel costs are the biggest challenge the cruise industry faces, said Torrent, noting that Carnival and other lines have cut operating costs by looking for more efficiencies and less waste. </p><p>From the consumer side, Carnival\'s position in homeports that are drive markets is helping to sustain demand, the executives noted. Cahill said that next year Carnival will open its first year-round homeport in the Northeast, in Baltimore, providing consumers in the region with the option of driving to their Caribbean cruise instead of flying to Florida, with the ability to drive to the cruise vacation yet another value proposition that appeals to consumers. </p></span>','2013-01-19 23:47:32',291,1,1,NULL,NULL,482,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(793,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Industry News','U.S. Government Turns Down “Devastating” Rule Changes','123_156234722.jpg','2008-08-25 01:00:00','The U.S. Office of Management and Budget has declined to act on a proposed rule change in the Passenger Vessel Services Act that would have drastically changed cruise ship operations in the United States. Some cruise officials had called the proposed rule &ldquo;devastating.&rdquo;<br /><br />In November, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, backed by Hawaiian legislators and NCL, proposed a new rule that would require non-U.S.-flagged ships leaving a U.S. port with U.S. passengers to spend at least 48 hours at a &ldquo;distant foreign port,&rdquo; allow passengers to go ashore, and that the time at the foreign call be at least 50 percent of the total time at U.S. ports.<br /><br />The rule change was aimed to protect U.S.-flagged ships operating in Hawaii, but could have had broader implications &ndash; such as to sailing in Alaska, Canada, Mexico and even the Caribbean, if broadly interpreted.<br /><br />In an Aug. 13 letter to Homeland Security, Susan E. Dudley, the administrator at the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, wrote: &ldquo;This proposal presents no market failure or compelling public need, omits a statement of the costs and benefits of the rulemaking and does not include a discussion and analysis of regulatory alternatives, significant distributive impacts, or uncertainties. For these reasons, we are returning the draft proposed rule for your reconsideration.&rdquo;<br /><br />&nbsp;The Passenger Vessel Services Act, enacted by U.S. Congress in 1886, restricts non-U.S.-flagged cruise ships from travel between two U.S. ports unless it also calls on a foreign port.','2013-01-20 00:01:50',244,1,1,NULL,NULL,478,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(794,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','DONNA BALANCIA, Florida Today','Cruise ship business gets boost from dissatisfaction with airlines','123_593498319.jpg','2008-08-27 01:08:00','<p>As airlines cut back on the number of flights and passenger dissatisfaction grows, the idea of driving to a cruise ship, unpacking once and enjoying entertainment and meals without venturing out is becoming more popular.</p><p>&quot;The drive market has helped the cruise lines overcome economic obstacles,&quot; said Nick Verrastro, editor of Travel Trade magazine.</p><p>&quot;And they\'re capitalizing on the fact that the airlines are cutting capacity and raising prices.&quot;</p><p>Geraldine Blanchard, vice president of Global Tours &amp; Travel of Melbourne, said her bookings have grown to the point where 65 percent of her travel business is comprised of cruise customers.</p><p>&quot;The cruise company facilitates everything for the guest,&quot; Blanchard said.</p><p>Brevard County has capitalized on the cruising phenomenon, with local hotels offering specials and perks to cruisers, like free parking for the duration of the cruise with a hotel stay before or after hitting the high seas.</p><p>&quot;The port, with all the cruise business it\'s developing, really helps us,&quot; said Rob Varley, executive director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism.</p><p>&quot;The cruise business is an important part of our tourism industry because it drives hotel stays before and after the cruise.&quot;</p><p>Otherwise, during the slow period from late August through mid-November, things would be very quiet at hotels around the county, particularly in the Cocoa Beach and North Brevard areas, Varley said.</p><p>In Florida, there are many choices for cruising, with several ports throughout the state offering a multitude of cruise options.</p><p>Port Canaveral is considered No. 2 to Miami in terms of cruise passengers. Most of the major cruise lines are represented at Port Canaveral.</p><p>Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Carnival Cruise Lines, Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Lines have ships either based there or that make a port-of-call stop.</p><p>Port Canaveral has been working at establishing itself as a premiere drive-to cruise destination, and operators are paying attention: Disney Cruise Line recently agreed to put its two largest ships at Canaveral, and Royal Caribbean and Carnival are also home-porting ships in their largest classes at the port.</p><p>&quot;One of the reasons we\'re doing so well with cruising is that people just don\'t want to fly,&quot; said Stan Payne, chief executive officer of the Canaveral Port Authority.</p><p>&quot;We\'re located within driving distance of many states along the East Coast and well into the Ohio Valley, and cruising has become a better option than flying.&quot;</p><p>Carnival Corp. has made itself a successful cruise business model by growing through acquisition of other cruise companies and by offering a range of choices, from affordable, shoter trips to longer luxury vacations.</p><p>The biggest cruise company in the world, Carnival says it hosts two-thirds of the world\'s cruise passengers on its brands, such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line.</p><p>Terry Thornton, Carnival\'s vice president for marketing planning, said there is no end in sight for demand for Caribbean cruises, which the company bolsters through locating its ships at drive-to ports around the state of Florida.</p><p>In addition to being an attractive cruise vacation for first-timers, the Caribbean can continue to appeal to veteran cruisers because of the numerous ports of call and island destinations, and the different itineraries ships take to get there.</p><p>But the convenience &mdash; of driving, of settling in &mdash; spark the cruise business these days.</p><p>&quot;The cruise industry is doing well because people are driving to their ports,&quot; Thornton said. &quot;There are a lot of local ports around the country and cruising is more of an option than ever before. Also, people enjoy the convenience in that they can unpack once.&quot;</p><p>The fact that Florida has more cruise ports than any other state is not by accident.</p><p>Florida residents and those who live within driving distance of the state can pick cruises that depart from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and Jacksonville, as well as Miami and Port Canaveral.</p><p>Travel Trade\'s Verrastro said he believes the cruise lines will continue to market the ports that are accessible to the biggest number of drivers.</p><p>&quot;All the cruise lines are focusing on the drive market,&quot; Verrastro said, citing Carnival\'s recent decision to place additional cruise ships in New Orleans and Mobile, Ala., on the Gulf of Mexico.</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:35',333,1,1,NULL,NULL,483,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,1,1,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(795,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Oasis of the Seas cruises go on sale','Exterior_Side_Profile_R_995013599.jpg','2008-08-27 01:11:00','<p>Cruises on the worlds most eagerly anticipated ship Oasis of the Seas are set to go on sale from 1pm on Wednesday 3rd September 2008. Royal Caribbean Cruises newest addition to the fleet, Oasis of the Seas, will make its first revenue sailing on the 12th December 2009 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Royal Caribbean Cruises will not be offering any early booking discounts and expect the first cruises on Oasis of the Seas to be the fastest selling in history. Prices for a nine-night fly/cruise including return flights from the UK and a seven-night Caribbean cruise on board Oasis of the Seas will start from &pound;1,299 per person.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The inaugural season will begin with 19 consecutive seven-night sailings to the Eastern Caribbean, with ports of call at Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Nassau, Bahamas. From the 1 May 2010, Oasis of the Seas will alternate its Eastern Caribbean itinerary with the Western Caribbean itinerary, which will call at Labadee, Royal Caribbean International&rsquo;s private beach destination in Haiti; the new port of Falmouth, Jamaica; and Cozumel, Mexico.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Oasis of the Seas is almost 40 per cent larger than any other cruise ship to date and will feature some of the most innovative and exciting amenities at sea including Central Park, an open air space in the centre of the ship with lush, tropical gardens with al fresco dining and street entertainment. Other highlights will be the Boardwalk, a family orientated area inspired by seaside piers with the first carousel at sea and opening onto the AquaTheater, an open air amphitheatre space with two 43 foot rock climbing walls and zip-line suspended nine decks above.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The new loft staterooms will be the most luxurious accommodation available at sea, with spectacular views of the ocean from floor-to-ceiling double-height windows. Loft suites will feature a modern spacious living area with contemporary detailing and a private balcony with sun chairs. Prices for a nine-night fly/cruise including accommodation in a loft stateroom start from &pound;2,999 per person.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jo Rzymowska, associate vice president and general manager, Royal Caribbean International, UK and Ireland, said:<br />&ldquo;Oasis of the Seas is the most hyped holiday experience ever to be available. We are predicting a day of mammoth sales on 3rd September. The prices represent phenomenal value for money and includes access to some of the most groundbreaking facilities ever available from a leisure resort, especially when you consider that this one will be at sea.&rdquo;</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:25',329,3,1,NULL,NULL,484,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(796,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Norwegian Majesty clean up in Bermuda','bermuda_707082879.jpg','2008-08-27 01:12:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line has been giving something back to St Georges in Bermuda where one of their ships, Norwegian Majesty, has docked during the summer. Seventeen officers and crew members including Captain Goran Blomqvist, the doctor and environmental officer, collected over 25 bags of rubbish over a 3 mile area.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Norwegian Cruise Line&rsquo;s ship Norwegian Majesty is sailing seven-day cruises to Bermuda from Baltimore and Philadelphia from 4 October 2008.</p>','2013-01-20 00:01:02',222,1,1,NULL,NULL,486,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(797,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Ozgur Tore, Travel News Gazette','Princess Debuts New Onboard Fitness Programs','123_251768373.jpg','2008-08-27 01:12:00','<span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Staying fit on a cruise has never been easier or more fun, as Princess Cruises introduces new ways for passengers to stay active on their vacation &ndash; including the industry&rsquo;s first in-room fitness program, fun yoga classes for kids and teens, and a new array of Lotus Spa classes featuring the three vital components of balanced health.</span> <p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Designed for cruisers of all ages and activity levels, these innovative fitness choices will help passengers get moving in the privacy of their own staterooms with Fitness@Sea hosted by celebrity trainer Gillian Clark; strike a pose in an interactive yoga class for junior cruisers; or test their mettle with a &ldquo;Tour de France&rdquo; spin class as part of the line&rsquo;s new <em><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Core.Balance.Strength.</span></em> program.&nbsp;</span> </p><p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">&ldquo;We know that many of our passengers are interested in maintaining their exercise programs while on their cruise, and still others like to try new things to stay in shape,&rdquo; said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises senior vice president. &ldquo;Our new fitness programs are a great way to do both.&rdquo;</span> </p><p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Fitness@Sea</span></strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\"> <br />Led by celebrity fitness trainer and bestselling fitness DVD host Gillian Clark, passengers can participate in a series of Fitness@Sea classes in the comfort of their own staterooms to challenge their minds and bodies. Produced as an industry first for Princess, the classes are designed as a way for passengers to comfortably start off their day with beneficial exercise. Clark leads nine different classes shown exclusively on the line&rsquo;s Wellness Channel, including:</span> </p><p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">&bull; Core strengthening <br />&bull; Flexibility <br />&bull; Arm and leg strengthening <br />&bull; Big muscle groups and an overall body workout <br />&bull; Cardio training <br />&bull; Stretching <br />&bull; The mind/body connection <br />&bull; Breathing to enhance your workout <br />&bull; Back strengthening <br /><br />Fitness@Sea debuts fleetwide this month. On ships with Movies Under the Stars, morning sessions are offered on the signature 300-square-foot-screens for those passengers who want to enjoy the open air on deck and work out in a group setting.</span> </p><p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Yoga for Kids and Teens</span></strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\"> <br />In another industry first, Princess will introduce yoga to kids and teens in a fun and imaginative way, while promoting exercise in a positive environment. With the worldwide popularity and widely known benefits of yoga, Princess brings this mind and body exercise to kids and teens ages 3-17. <br />The program promotes building coordination, breathing, balance and emotional strength with an element of play incorporating music, chants and singing. With yoga mats provided, kids can participate in a variety of yoga animal poses from Downward Dog to Cat and Mouse. Classes are complimentary and are currently rolling out fleetwide in the onboard youth and teen centers. Classes range from 30 minutes to one hour and parents are welcome to participate.</span> </p><p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Core.Balance.Strength.</span></strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\"> <br />This exclusive new onboard fitness program focuses on three vital components of balanced health called <em><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Core.Balance.Strength.</span></em> Using a variety of energetic new options for health-conscious passengers, these classes are offered in Princess&rsquo; Lotus Spa.</span> </p><p><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Core.Balance.Strength.</span></em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\"> is designed to help guests maximize their wellness potential by focusing on three fitness components, each with a series of corresponding classes. <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">The Core</span></strong> component is designed to create a strong foundation on which to build, and is based primarily on the principles of Pilates and correct postural alignment. <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Balance</span></strong> focuses on centering both mind and body, and features fusion yoga classes. <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Strength</span></strong> includes a high-energy mixture of both strength and cardio classes designed to get the heart racing and the endorphins flowing.</span> </p><p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">As part of the new program, passengers who&rsquo;ve dreamed of bicycling in the famed Tour de France can now get a taste of the action with a new Tour de Spin program, offered as part of the strength course options, which will benefit LIVESTRONG, the Lance Armstrong Foundation. <br /><br />The new<em><span style=\"font-family: Arial\"> Core.Balance.Strength.</span></em> program is currently being rolled out fleetwide and is expected to be in place aboard all Princess ships by the end of the year. A nominal fee is charged for each class, which includes the following:</span> </p><p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Core </span></strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\"><br />&bull; AbSession: A 20-minute abdominal blaster <br />&bull; Core Strength and Stretch: Pilates based, concentrating on creating a strong foundation <br />&bull; Pilates Basics: An introduction to classic Pilates moves <br />&bull; Fitball Pilates: Innovative core class utilizing the Pilates ring to develop a strong center <br /><br /><strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Balance</span></strong> <br />&bull; Meditation Series: A guide to a clearer more enriched life <br />&bull; Yoga Basics: Suitable for all fitness levels, this yoga series introduces the ancient concepts of yoga <br />&bull; Strong Centered and Stretched: Fusion class incorporating yoga and Pilates, focusing on posture, strength and the individual&rsquo;s chi <br /><br /><strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Strength</span></strong> <br />&bull; Body Challenge Conditioning: The ultimate all over body workout set to chart topping hits <br />&bull; Tour de Spin: Offered in association with LIVESTRONG, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the Tour de Spin program will consist of three different 45-minute classes, each featuring a ride named after various stages of the Tour de France. Each spin class offers a different profile based on the class theme: <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Les Alps</span></strong> features multi-level resistances, <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Time Trial</span></strong> offers a fast interval workout and <strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Alp D&rsquo;Huez</span></strong> consists of a mind/body climb. One dollar from each class series will be donated to LIVESTRONG to fight cancer, and at the conclusion of the three-ride program each participant will receive one of the foundation&rsquo;s famous yellow wrist bands. <br />&bull; Step to My Groove: Beginners step aerobics, simple, easy and fun <br /><br />In addition, the new program will continue to offer a selection of complimentary classes, including: <br />&bull; Long and Lean Stretch class: An introductory stretching class with an emphasis on postural imbalances and tight muscle groups <br />&bull; Ab Workshop: An in-depth look at the perfect sit-up with an informative and results-driven workout <br />&bull; Circuit City: Using resistance machines, guests will experience the ultimate full body workout and learn the best way to use exercise machines <br />&bull; Aerobically Challenged: A low impact aerobics class for beginners &ndash; easy and simple <br />&bull; Chillax: Chill out and relax on the ultimate wind down <br />&bull; Lotus Tai Chi: A meditative workout to promote inner peace and calm using slow rhythmic movement <br /><br /><strong><span style=\"font-family: Arial\">Wii Fit</span></strong> <br />All Princess ships, which have long featured Nintendo&rsquo;s popular Wii&trade; systems onboard, also offer the revolutionary Wii Fit&trade; balance games, challenging passengers of all ages to put their athletic skills to the test with active video game tournaments such as the ski jump, Hula Hoop&reg; or heading soccer balls. Exciting family competitions are held onboard &ndash; including on the dramatic Movies Under the Stars poolside screens. Youth and teen centers are also offering younger cruisers the opportunity to participate in Wii Fit activities on their vacation.</span> </p>','2013-01-19 23:54:28',141,1,1,NULL,NULL,487,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(798,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Agent Central','Nickelodeon Family Cruise Announces Two Cruise Itineraries for 2009','123_854751149.jpg','2008-08-27 01:14:00','<p>Upon the recent return of the first-ever Nickelodeon Family Cruise with Royal Caribbean, Nickelodeon and Royal Caribbean International announced plans for two more joint journeys at sea together in summer of 2009. The two companies will offer an exotic cruise from each U.S. coast, with the Mariner of the Seas taking passengers to the Western Mexican Rivera and the Freedom of the Seas to sailing to the Eastern Caribbean.</p><p>The first of the 2009 Nickelodeon Family Cruises will depart Los Angeles on July 26, 2009 and make its way to the Mexican Rivera. The Eastern Caribbean itinerary will leave on August 9, 2009 from Port Canaveral, FL, and will sail to St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s private island, CocoCay, the Bahamas.</p><p>Onboard, Nickelodeon provides families with interactive game shows, meet-and-greets and performances by Nickelodeon stars, and plenty of Nickelodeon\'s signature slime. Meanwhile, families will enjoy all of the accommodations that Royal Caribbean cruise liners offer, including&nbsp; an onboard ice-skating rink, full-size basketball court, inline skating track, 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>Vacation packages for each Nickelodeon Family Cruise go on-sale to the public beginning in mid-September. A new sales program for travel agents will also be implemented. The 2008 Nickelodeon Family Cruise sold out relatively quickly so act fast.</p><p>Visit <a href=\"http://www.nickfamilycruise.com/\">www.nickfamilycruise.com</a>. </p>','2013-01-19 23:57:49',207,1,1,NULL,NULL,488,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(799,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','NCL Corp. Lays Off 145 Shoreside Employees','123_251230009.jpg','2008-08-27 01:15:00','NCL Corp. has reduced its global workforce by about 145 employees. The company said it is realigning its &quot;organization to more appropriately support its pattern of growth over the next few years&quot; and to &quot;better align staff with the current business needs.&quot; In a statement, NCL said its external business development sales force remains intact and &quot;this reduction will not impact the support we provide to our valued travel partners.&quot; NCL said it is preparing for the largest growth surge in its history with the arrival of its two F3 ships in 2010, but will experience a capacity reduction from 2008 to 2010 with the withdrawal of Orient Lines\' Marco Polo earlier this year and the withdrawals of Norwegian Dream this fall and Norwegian Majesty next year.<br /><br />NCL has also experienced a shift in the mix of its business, within and outside North America, with two ships leaving Hawaii and three ships deployed in Europe for the first time; one of those, Norwegian Jade, sailing year-round. &quot;Furthermore, the steep increase in fuel cost -- a cost that is largely beyond the company\'s control and that appears to involve a long-term systemic change -- has been another factor in the company\'s careful assessment of its controllable cost structure,&quot; NCL said. NCL is providing assistance to the affected team members, including access to a career assistance program.','2013-01-20 11:51:13',195,1,1,NULL,NULL,489,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(800,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','David Gelles, Miami Herald','Carnival cruise ship rescues 44 Haitians at sea','123_115700974.jpg','2008-08-27 01:16:00','<p>A Carnival cruise ship rescued 44 Haitians from a sinking motorboat in the Caribbean on Friday morning. The Carnival Liberty, one of the Miami-based company\'s largest ships, was off the northeast coast of Cuba when the crew on the bridge spotted the boat, according to Tim Gallagher, a spokesman for the cruiseline.</p><p>Gallagher said the Liberty crew notified the Coast Guard, then sent a rescue vessel to the sinking boat and took the passengers onto the cruise ship. Once onboard, all the migrants were inspected by the Liberty\'s medical team and given food, water, clothes and mattresses to rest on.</p><p>Liberty passengers observed as the refugees were brought onboard.</p><p>\'\'There were hundreds of people watching the whole thing,\'\' said Leslie Pelton, a Liberty passenger from Bowie, Md. ``When they brought them aboard, everyone was cheering and clapping.\'\'</p><p>Coast Guard Petty Officer Nick Ameen said it was unusual for a cruise ship to rescue refugees at sea. \'\'We\'re certainly grateful when they pick them up,\'\' Ameen said.</p><p>Ameen said the 44 Haitians were floating on a 27-foot-long boat, and that the motors had fallen off and the boat was taking on water.</p><p>On Friday night, the Coast Guard cutter Venturist rendezvoused with the Liberty. Two inflatable Coast Guard boats shuttled the refugees off the Liberty and onto the Venturist. During the transfer, some of the refugees wore Carnival bathrobes to guard against the wind and cold.</p><p>On Saturday morning, one of the migrants, a woman in her mid-30s, collapsed and died onboard the Venturist, Ameen said. He said she had been inspected by Liberty\'s doctors and Coast Guard medical staff, and was considered healthy. The cause of death is not known.</p><p>The Haitians also reported that before their boat encountered the Liberty, six migrants had died and were buried at sea, according to Ameen.</p><p>Saturday afternoon, the Coast Guard Venturist transferred the refugees to another cutter, the Diligence. At 2 p.m. Monday, the 43 surviving Haitians, as well as the deceased woman\'s body, were repatriated to the city of Cap Haitien.</p><p>\'\'Originally, there were fifty people on that boat,\'\' Ameen said. ``Forty-three returned to Haiti. This just shows what happens when you go out to sea unprepared. It\'s dangerous out there.\'\'</p><p>The Liberty had departed Miami Aug. 16 for a tour of the western Caribbean. It returned to Miami behind schedule Saturday morning, and left again Saturday night.</p><p>Karen Nestor, a Liberty passenger from Middleborough, Mass., said the incident didn\'t sully her vacation. \'\'We had a fantastic time,\'\' she said. ``I would definitely do it again.\'\'</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:53:19',221,1,1,NULL,NULL,490,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(801,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Costa Maya Reopens with New Zip-Line Adventure','123_217010812.jpg','2008-08-28 03:50:00','<p>Puerto Costa Maya has reopened to cruise ship visits after being closed since August 2007 due to damage caused by Hurricane Dean. The port reopened with the launch of BioMaya Bacalar, a Mayan-flavored zip-lining adventure that takes guests through the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula. Offered as a three-part excursion, BioMaya Bacalar greets guests with a symbolic soul-cleansing ritual performed by local Mayans, sending guests off on their zip-lining journey. After soaring through the jungle alongside red-winged Macaws, the last platform leaves guests at the edge of the Bacalar Lagoon, known by locals as the birthplace of the rainbow. Guests cool off as they float across the water to the other side of the lagoon, where native fruit juices and other Mexican delicacies await guests before they trek through the jungle.</p><p><br />BioMaya Bacalar&rsquo;s four platforms are built on iron towers ranging from 656 feet to 2,559 feet. The zip-line tour is the only one in the world that allows for tandem side-by-side gliding. &ldquo;Cruise ship passengers will return to new offerings that capture the uniqueness of Costa Maya and the surrounding region,&rdquo; said Teofilo Hamui, president and CEO of the Port of Costa Maya. Located just hours from Cancun on Mexico&rsquo;s southern Yucatan Peninsula, Costa Maya was the Western Caribbean&rsquo;s first port designed exclusively for the cruise industry. Resembling an ancient Mayan city, Costa Maya can accommodate three ships at once, including F3 and Genesis class ships. Costa Maya has three grand pavilions, artisan and luxury shopping areas, a beach club, saltwater pools, fine restaurants and bars. Costa Maya was named Seatrade Insider&rsquo;s 2007 Port of the Year. For more information, visit www.costamaya-mexico.com. </p>','2013-01-19 23:53:42',381,2,1,NULL,NULL,491,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(802,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Disney Wonder to Host Disney Channel World Premiere','123_349202249.jpg','2008-08-28 03:53:00','<p>Disney Cruise Line&rsquo;s Disney Wonder will host a red-carpet, world-premiere event Aug. 28-31 for the new Disney Channel original series &ldquo;The Suite Life on Deck,&rdquo; a spin-off of &ldquo;The Suite Life of Zack &amp; Cody.&rdquo; During this premiere at sea, guests will experience a Hollywood-style, red-carpet arrival of Disney Channel stars, a sneak-peek of the first episode of &ldquo;The Suite Life on Deck&rdquo; and an opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with stars of the show. Cast members scheduled to appear include Cole Sprouse (Cody Martin), Dylan Sprouse (Zack Martin), Brenda Song (London Tipton), Phill Lewis (Mr. Moseby) and Debby Ryan (Bailey Pickett). All events will take place on decks 9 and 10 on Aug. 29 at the family-friendly Goofy Pool. A day after the premiere, another Disney Channel star will take the stage. Mitchel Musso, star of &ldquo;Hannah Montana&rdquo; and &ldquo;Phineas and Ferb&rdquo; will perform a mini-concert at the Goofy Pool. At the concert&rsquo;s end, Musso will spend a few minutes answering questions from the audience.</p><p><br />This marks the first time Disney Cruise Line and Disney Channel have partnered to develop a multi-day event. The voyage is nearly sold-out. &ldquo;The Suite Life on Deck&rdquo; premieres on Disney Channel at 8 p.m. ET/PT Sept. 26. In this new live-action comedy series, teenage twins Zack and Cody Martin, and spoiled hotel heiress London Tipton, go aboard a luxury passenger cruise liner, the SS Tipton, owned by London\'s father, as it cruises the world with tourists and students who attend classes at its Seven Seas High. Mr. Moseby is reassigned from the Tipton Hotel to be the cruise ship&rsquo;s hotel manager, but is quickly deflated when he finds out that Zack, Cody and London are onboard too. Joining in the hijinks is London&rsquo;s new roommate Bailey, a sweet, Southern girl who has just left her small-town roots to experience a new world.</p>','2013-01-19 23:50:30',172,1,1,NULL,NULL,494,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(803,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Hurricane Gustav Alters Some Caribbean Cruise Itineraries','024313W_sm_220615190.gif','2008-08-28 03:54:00','<p>Royal Caribbean International altered the itinerary of Mariner of the Seas out of Port Canaveral, given Hurricane Gustav&rsquo;s location and projected path.&nbsp; Hurricane Gustav made landfall Tuesday on Haiti with winds up to 90 mph and was expected to head toward Cuba, Jamaica and possibly the Cayman Islands. </p><p>At press time on Tuesday, Gustav was a Category 1 storm with the possibility of strengthening to Category 2 by day&rsquo;s end and even stronger over the next few days. Royal Caribbean International altered the itinerary of Mariner of the Seas out of Port Canaveral, given Hurricane Gustav&rsquo;s location and projected path. </p><p>Mariner of the Seas, which departed Port Canaveral on Aug. 24, did not visit Labadee, Haiti, on Tuesday and will not call at Ocho Rios on Wednesday, Grand Cayman on Thursday or Cozumel on Friday. Instead, the ship spent Tuesday at sea, will visit St. Thomas on Wednesday and St. Maarten on Thursday. The ship will be at sea Friday and Saturday as it returns to Port Canaveral Aug. 31, as scheduled. Carnival Cruise Lines said the Carnival Conquest, which departed Galveston on Aug. 24, cancelled its Aug. 27 call at Montego Bay and changed the order of other ports of call. The vessel will visit Grand Cayman on Wednesday, Cozumel on Thursday and Progreso, the port call replacing Montego Bay, on Friday. </p><p>Carnival Triumph, which sailed from Miami on Aug. 24, cancelled calls at Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios. The revised itinerary is a sea day on Thursday, Half Moon Cay on Friday and Nassau on Saturday, returning to Miami as scheduled Aug. 31. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com or www.carnival.com. For an updated forecast, visit the National Hurricane Center website at www.nhc.noaa.gov.</p>','2013-01-19 23:58:10',263,1,1,NULL,NULL,485,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(804,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Princess Rewards Loyal Past Passengers with Additional Benefits','123_999105058.jpg','2008-08-28 03:55:00','<p><span class=\"bold\">Princess Rewards Loyal Past Passengers with Additional Benefits </span><br />Wireless Internet, New Vacation Protection Plan and Exclusive Phone Line Now Available to Princess Captain\'s Circle Members <br /><br />SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (August 26, 2008) -- Widely recognized as one of the top passenger loyalty programs in the cruise industry, the Princess Captain\'s Circle is adding even more benefits for Platinum and Elite members. Frequent cruisers can now use their free Internet packages to access the ships\' wireless Internet networks, they\'ll receive a complimentary upgrade to Platinum-level coverage when purchasing the new Princess Vacation Protection plan, and they have an exclusive new phone number to reach the &quot;Circle Desk.&quot; </p><p>The new Platinum- and Elite-level benefits, for passengers having taken at least six and 16 cruises, respectively, include: </p><p><strong>Wireless Internet Access </strong>-- Members can now choose to use their free Internet package minutes on their personal laptops in wireless hot spots, or in the Internet Cafes. This generous benefit rewards guests with a credit of $75 to $400 per person towards Internet use, depending on cruise length. Wireless connections are currently available on all ships in various locations, and this new member benefit will be available fleetwide by winter 2008. </p><p><strong>Exclusive Phone Number </strong>-- Members will have their calls directly routed to the Circle Desk through an exclusive phone number expressly for the line\'s most loyal cruisers. Calls to the new number will be quickly referred to a membership representative so passengers can easily check on their cruise history, member status and benefits. </p><p><strong>Princess Vacation Protection Upgrade </strong>-- Beginning with summer 2009 voyages, the line is introducing a new Princess Vacation Protection program that replaces Princess Travel Care and features additional benefits. For North American Platinum and Elite Circle members, Princess will provide a complimentary upgrade to the higher level Princess Platinum Vacation Protection, offering members more coverage than ever before including a 100 percent &quot;cancel for any reason&quot; benefit. </p><p>The Princess Captain\'s Circle offers an extensive array of loyalty benefits. Among the many other perks available to repeat cruisers are exclusive Launch Savings discounts for early booking, a free mini-bar set up, free laundry services, priority tender embarkation, complimentary wine tasting, a boutiques discount, preferred embarkation and disembarkation, a Referral Rewards program and last-minute sailing opportunities. </p><p>For more information about the Princess Captain\'s Circle, visit the Circle Center here, and click on &quot;Member Benefits.&quot;</p>','2013-01-20 00:01:23',255,1,1,NULL,NULL,493,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(805,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Ocean Village','Ocean Village launch new Caribbean itineraries','ocv_433590464.jpg','2008-08-28 03:57:00','<p>Ocean Village have introduced new 14 night cruises for their winter 2009-2010 season in the Caribbean. The launch of longer cruises allows new ports of call to be added that could previously not have been visited during a one week sailing.</p><p>Ocean Village&rsquo;s two ships, Ocean Village and Ocean Village 2, will be operating three fl/cruise itineraries departing from Barbados. &lsquo;Hammocks and Harbours&rsquo; is the first of these, visiting the centre of the Caribbean with ports of call at Samana in the Dominican Republic and Grand Turk.</p><p>&lsquo;Beaches and Breezes&rsquo; promises a taste of the Latin flavour in the southern Caribbean, including visits at Mayreau and Isla Margarita.</p><p>And last but not least there are two sailings of &lsquo;Jungles and Jetties&rsquo;, a grand tour from Barbados to the Panama Canal, with destinations along the way such as Colon.</p><p>Ocean Village&rsquo;s fresh new itineraries offer the perfect opportunity to get off the beaten Caribbean cruises track and experience more of what the Caribbean has to offer.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:26',175,1,1,NULL,NULL,492,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(806,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Sweet to sail on Norwegian Spirit','sweet_896960210.jpg','2008-08-31 00:48:00','<p>A new lesbian travel company called Sweet has announced its agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line to charter the 1,972 passenger Norwegian Spirit for a Caribbean cruise starting the 8 November 2009.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The &lsquo;Sweet Caribbean Cruise&rsquo; is the first offering from the company and will depart from New Orleans and call at Costa Maya, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico. To start of the cruise in style, Sweet are offering guests a two day pre-departure package in New Orleans which includes city tours, voluntourism and ecotourism programs as well as a kick-off celebration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sweet will be working with local agencies at each port they visit to ensure they leave them better than they found them. There will be projects looking at locals needs involving education, wildlife and natural resource preservation, as well as assisting with the construction and renovation of schools, cleaning up beaches and wildlife habitat restoration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line as they share our passion for protecting the world&rsquo;s natural resources and integrating smart green strategies into their business. It&rsquo;s a great fit for us,&rdquo; said Shannon Wentworth, CEO and founding partner, Sweet. &ldquo;Additionally, the ship provides a fun and sophisticated range of dining, spa and sporting activities under the innovative concept of Freestyle Cruising. Our guests will love the pampering, affordability and freedom.&rdquo;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Norwegian Cruise Line is the perfect choice for a cruise of this nature as their Freestyle cruising style will provide guests with flexibility and freedom. Sweet guests will appreciate the range of amenities on Norwegian Spirit, as well as the choice of staterooms, many with ocean views and balconies. There are also 11 restaurants to choose from, nine bars and lounges, a casino, a spa and fitness center and two lovely pools.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Evening entertainment for Sweet guests will include performances from popular comedienne Suzanne Westenhoafer, award winning musical artist Jen Foster, comedienne Erin Foley and the talented singer Edie Carey. Not only this, but Sweet is working with the country&rsquo;s largest lesbian party promoter, Club Skirks, who will be hosting tea dances and parties on board Norwegian Spirit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sweet is a lesbian travel company that was founded in 2008 and is based in the San Francisco Bay area. Their mission is to provide fun-filled, eco friendly, volunteer orientated lesbian travel experiences.</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:33',310,1,1,NULL,NULL,495,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(807,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Seabourn Cruises','Seabourn Named Best Small Ship Line By Virtuoso','123_188706042.jpg','2008-08-31 00:49:00','The Yachts of Seabourn has been honored as the &ldquo;Best Small Ship Cruise Line&rdquo; by Virtuoso in the luxury travel network&rsquo;s 2008 Virtuoso Performance Awards. Virtuoso&rsquo;s member advisors voted on the peer-to-peer awards. &ldquo;Seabourn is noteworthy as they epitomize the best of the world&rsquo;s largest service industry, travel and tourism, in their dedication to their clients,&rdquo; said Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch. &ldquo;Not only do they excel in delivering life experiences, but they support everyone in the network in such a way that it elevates the entire travel profession. We are truly honored to have Seabourn as part of the Virtuoso family.&rdquo;','2013-01-19 23:48:15',146,1,1,NULL,NULL,499,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(808,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','New Innovative Pool Concept - The Retreat - to Debut on Five Holland America Line Ships','123_571311978.jpg','2008-08-31 00:52:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - When Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam emerge from nearly month-long dry docks costing approximately $200 million in total, one of the highlights will be The Retreat, a new resort-style pool area on the aft of the Lido deck. Catering to the preferences of today&rsquo;s upscale travelers, the indulgent retreat is a first for the industry.</p><p>The main focus of the new pool experience will be a shallow area where guests may lounge in chairs and dip their fingers and toes in the water or relax on a bench and dangle their legs in the refreshing water.</p><p>&ldquo;The Retreat is a totally new approach for us to this area of the ship,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re creating an area where guests can relax outside in a sophisticated environment, and we&rsquo;re adding other fun and convenient features such as fountains, a stage and even a pizzeria.&rdquo;</p><p>The Retreat&rsquo;s pool will be divided into three main sections separated by benches running the length of the pool. The middle section is 16 inches deep so guests can sit on the bench to dangle their legs in the cool water. The two side sections have eight inches of water - perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Fountains enhance the d&eacute;cor and create a soothing ambiance for relaxation.</p><p>Slice, an upscale pizzeria, will be incorporated into the area, serving signature pizzas, whole pies and slices to order. And, in order to provide live music, a stage will be added.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create The Retreat and a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:44',319,1,1,NULL,NULL,496,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(809,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Expands Shops with Exclusive Jewelry Boutique','123_962389455.jpg','2008-08-31 00:55:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - The latest in high-end designer jewelry soon will be found aboard all Holland America Line ships as part of a continuing and extensive Signature of Excellence initiative which represents an investment of more than $525 million.</p><p>Merabella, a high-end jewelry boutique with one-of-a-kind collections, was first added to ms Amsterdam in 2006 and has enjoyed tremendous success. The boutique will be its own, separate shop with an elegant atmosphere. Guests will enjoy a one-on-one shopping experience in a luxury salon with a knowledgeable staff member.</p><p>&ldquo;Merabella is an intimate boutique created for a memorable and extremely personalized shopping experience,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;Merabella boutiques are now aboard six of our ships. It&rsquo;s been so well received that we recently made the decision to incorporate the boutique on seven more ships.&rdquo;</p><p>The branded designer jewelry collections are selected for their beauty and timeless elegance. Jewelry collections include stunning designs from LeVian, Christopher Designs, Chimento, Genesis, Tara and Sons plus many more designers. The boutique will be added on board ships during scheduled dry docks beginning with the Veendam in spring 2009 and will be completed by late 2010.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:35',187,1,1,NULL,NULL,497,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(810,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Industry News','Jamaica Announces the World&#039;s First Destination Loyalty Card','123_729930544.jpg','2008-08-31 00:57:00','The Jamaica Tourist Board recently announced that Jamaica will offer the world&rsquo;s first destination loyalty card, the OneLove card.&nbsp; The announcement came fresh on the heels of excitement surrounding Jamaican sensation Usain Bolt&rsquo;s world-record breaking and gold-medal winning 100-meter sprint at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.&nbsp; The program will launch in early 2009.<br /><br />&ldquo;In today&rsquo;s competitive landscape, destinations must seek to differentiate themselves and get closer to the final decision maker,&rdquo; said Jamaica&rsquo;s Deputy Director of Tourism, Zachary Harding.&nbsp; &ldquo;The launch of this world-first destination loyalty card is Jamaica&rsquo;s first step towards embracing customer-relationship marketing in tourism. OneLove is in keeping with Jamaica&rsquo;s lifestyle and message of peace, love and unity.&rdquo;<br /><br />The OneLove membership card provides travelers with VIP service and the ability to redeem points for hotels, attractions, ground transportation and special events. The card will allow the destination to track and better match specific needs of the consumer with the actual destination products they want.<br /><br />The first OneLove commemorative card, featuring Beijing 2008 Olympic Champion Usain Bolt and the current Miss World, Zi Lin Zhang, was presented by Jamaica to Miss Zi Lin Zhang who graciously accepted an invitation to visit Jamaica next year for the inaugural staging of the 100m World Beach Sprint.','2013-01-19 23:56:55',169,1,1,NULL,NULL,503,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(811,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Launches Explorations Team','123_118659145.jpg','2008-08-31 01:01:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - With today&rsquo;s traveler looking for more enriching experiences and activities, Holland America Line has broadened its onboard programming with the new Explorations Team. As part of the premium line&rsquo;s ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Team will be comprised of event staff with specific, niche expertise ranging from technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of &ldquo;edutainment&rdquo; programs.</p><p>The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be a cohesive team dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard party planner, a travel guide, a &ldquo;techspert&rdquo; and dance directors. On cruises lasting 12-days or more, a book club leader will also join the team.</p><p>&ldquo;People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs, events and activities they can personally connect with,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that choice.&rdquo;</p><p>The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the innovative program which already brings more than 70 culinary experts on board each year for cooking demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line&rsquo;s beloved towel animals.</p><p>The travel guide will host lectures and be a one-stop source for information on the various ports of call. A destination expert, the travel guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the destination&rsquo;s history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on ms Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.</p><p>The &ldquo;techspert&rdquo; will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos, arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a movie. Classes and personal workshops will be available throughout the cruise. Novices can learn about web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Those with more experience will enjoy the opportunity to learn new shortcuts and techniques.</p><p>Dance directors show guests how to dance the night away. Classes are available throughout each cruise. Whether teaching line dancing in the Crow&rsquo;s Nest or ballroom dancing in the Ocean Bar, the dance instructors will ensure guests of all experience levels enjoy themselves while learning new steps. After class, guests will find dance events on the ship&rsquo;s activity schedule where they may show off their new moves.</p><p>On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host lively book discussions in the Explorations Caf&eacute; powered by the New York Times. Book titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests interested in joining the discussion will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be &ldquo;In a Sunburned Country&rdquo; by Bill Bryson or in Asia, &ldquo;Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan.&rdquo;</p><p>With the addition of this new team of experts, Holland America Line guests now will have even more memories to take home from their cruise plus the personal experiences that have enriched their lives to share with family and friends. The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented fleet-wide.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry-dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p>','2013-01-19 23:53:08',160,1,1,NULL,NULL,498,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(812,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Revamps Bar Ambiance on Five Ships','123_360553589.jpg','2008-08-31 01:04:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 -Centrally located bars and lounges aboard five Holland America Line ships are being upgraded and reconfigured to bring a new concept to the shipboard bar scene. The highlight is a large, new space located in the heart of the ship, called Mix, that incorporates three specialty theme bars - Martinis, Champagne, and Spirits &amp; Ales. These enhancements are part of a new $200-million Signature of Excellence upgrade to ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam.</p><p>&ldquo;A focus of this latest Signature of Excellence series of enhancements is our entertainment venues, where we&rsquo;ve created the ultimate place to both socialize and be entertained, &ldquo;said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;Our guests are looking for an upscale, trendy spot where they can gather together and be part of this exciting new ambiance.&rdquo;</p><p>Mix and Mingle at Mix<br />An exciting new entertainment space called Mix is set to become the destination lounge where guests can meet and mingle throughout the day and night. Mix is an open and inviting space anchored by a pianist providing entertainment for three distinctly themed areas.</p><p>The bubbly will flow at Champagne, which offers a variety of 20 different champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world. The centerpiece of this bar is a cool, ice-filled counter top chilling champagne bottles that invites guests to indulge by the glass or by the bottle served in traditional silver buckets. This venue will offer events such as late champagne breakfast, pre-lunch Mimosa and Bellini hour, champagne tea time and pre-dinner champagne hour with caviar canap&eacute;s. Champagne will be the ship&rsquo;s premier celebration venue.</p><p>Martinis serves up 25 Grey Goose martinis elegantly offered in individual shakers as well as a full range of cocktails. Guests can also enjoy a martini flight made up of several mini martini concoctions. The martini flight includes Holland America Line&rsquo;s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice. Other martinis included in the flight are the Peartini, Cosmopolitan, Sunshine Martini, Rum Sundae and High Tide Martini. A house specialty will be a signature Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes.</p><p>Spirits &amp; Ales will feature an international selection of beers and premium whiskeys and brandies sure to entice even the most selective connoisseur. Here guests can drop by to enjoy a wide selection of beers on tap while watching sporting events or relax after some shopping in the nearby boutiques.</p><p>Dance the Night Away at Ocean Bar<br />The Ocean Bar will be enhanced to refresh its look. Guests wanting to learn new moves or brush up on their ballroom dancing skills can sign up for lessons given by the Line&rsquo;s experienced staff. Providing tunes from the Great American Songbook, The Neptunes - Holland America Line&rsquo;s resident three-piece music combo - will keep things lively as guests dance the night away and enjoy a cocktail in the luxuriously appointed lounge.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:50',219,1,1,NULL,NULL,500,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(813,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','New Stateroom Décor, Verandahs, Lanai Staterooms and More on Five Holland America Line Ships','123_423455621.jpg','2008-08-31 01:06:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - Five Holland America Line ships will soon undergo individual month-long dry docks at a total cost of approximately $200 million. The most dramatic alterations during the latest Signature of Excellence enhancements will result in an additional 32 verandah staterooms added to the aft portion of each ship. In addition, 46 new innovative lanai staterooms will allow guests direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck and on four ships verandahs will be installed on 12 staterooms on Deck 9 forward.</p><p>On the five ships, ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam, forty-six staterooms on the Lower Promenade deck will become a new lanai category stateroom with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. D&eacute;cor in the lanai staterooms will reflect elements of nature with soothing earth-tones.</p><p>Fifteen new Spa Staterooms will be created from existing staterooms, except on the Rotterdam where 23 staterooms on Verandah deck will be transformed into spa staterooms. The rooms, so named because of their proximity to the Greenhouse Spa and Salon and special in-room spa amenities, offer their own ambiance, providing unmatched relaxation, privacy and serenity. D&eacute;cor reflects the natural elements of the earth with soft earth-tone hues and light, fresh accent colors echoing nature&rsquo;s own. Soothing patterns adorn the bed runner and pillows and graphite-colored carpeting tie together all the elements. A counter-top water feature in each stateroom provides a natural, ambient background sound and artwork reflects serene images in nature. Exclusive spa treatments are offered only in these staterooms.</p><p>&ldquo;By adding or enhancing staterooms with verandahs and lanais, we&rsquo;re able to better meet the guests&rdquo; demand for balcony accommodations,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. &ldquo;The latest Signature of Excellence installment enhances our premium product and the stateroom modifications update the layout and d&eacute;cor of the rooms while remaining elegant.&rdquo;</p><p>Ship capacities will change as a result of the additional staterooms. All five ships also will add a varying number of inside staterooms. Guest capacity on Rotterdam will be 1,404 and capacity on Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam Veendam will be 1,350.</p><p>As part of this next phase of Signature of Excellence, all staterooms and their bathrooms will be enhanced. All staterooms will receive new soft goods including carpet, and desks and vanities will be resurfaced. Decorative wall sconces, drapery and accent pillows will add a touch of modern elegance to the new d&eacute;cor.</p><p>Outside and inside staterooms will be redecorated in rich earth hues complimented by accents of sienna and gold. New soft goods include a rich, olive-colored sofa with decorative pillows, chairs reupholstered in gold chenille, and a bed runner with a design inspired by nature.</p><p>Suites will have a contemporary color scheme with a traditional twist. A rich, dark carpet and chocolate-colored leather sofa contrast with light golden tones of soft goods and maple casework. Accent colors of reddish-orange punctuate sofa pillows, chairs and the bed runner. Sheer cream-colored draperies are light and airy with imprints of gold leaves.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:49:20',169,1,1,NULL,NULL,501,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(814,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Delivers Entertainment Enhancements','123_220448102.jpg','2008-08-31 01:08:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - As part of Holland America Line&rsquo;s latest Signature of Excellence enhancements, entertainment on board five popular ships is evolving to feature a new music program, the new Showroom at Sea, expanded entertainment and enrichment activities and a video game room featuring the latest craze in high-tech entertainment. The enhancements are part of an extensive $200-million program that will occur during nearly month-long dry docks on ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam beginning in spring 2009.</p><p>&ldquo;The new musical offerings and entertainment initiatives are designed to be even more compelling and relevant to today&rsquo;s premium cruiser,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. &ldquo;These enhancements will allow us to offer more venues and more choices to our guests.&rdquo;</p><p>Signature Bands Featured on All Ships<br />Joining the resident shipboard entertainment staff are three new musical groups catering to a wide audience: The HALCats, The Neptunes and Adaggio. Each ship in the fleet will now feature an ensemble of these signature musical groups.</p><p>An eight-piece party band, The HALCats play the music of the &rsquo;60s, &rsquo;70s and &rsquo;80s throughout the ship. Charged with creating a sophisticated and sultry mood, The Neptunes, a three-piece combo, feature music from the Great American Songbook. Adaggio, a string quartet, comprised of a viola, cello and two violins, perform light classics in the Explorer&rsquo;s Lounge. Guests can dance to the tunes of Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick Jr. in the newly refurbished Ocean Bar.</p><p>Showroom at Sea<br />Holland America Line has redesigned its main show space to combine modern stage technology and d&eacute;cor with the ambiance of a glamorous nightclub. Called Showroom at Sea, this venue will feature new show concepts along with production-style shows. Remodeled seating and a larger parquet dance floor will also feature movable tables and chairs complete with white-linen tablecloths and caf&eacute; lamps. The old-Hollywood atmosphere in this intimate room is just the place to dance the night away.</p><p>High-Tech Entertainment<br />The latest video game craze across the nation is now coming to Holland America Line ships. Interactive games and other high-tech entertainment, complete with large flatscreen televisions, are being installed in a new space called the Sky Room and will test players&rsquo; game skills. This high-tech game room features several &ldquo;rooms within a room&rdquo; and will include plenty of lounging chairs and couches for onlookers and participants alike.</p><p>Explorations Team Expands Activities<br />Entertainment and enrichment are taking on a new, contemporary look and feel across the fleet. A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff, each specializing in a particular area, to educate and entertain guests with an expanded menu of activities including flower arranging, hands-on cooking, dancing and working with digital photos, blogs and movies. Each team consists of a cruise director, a party planner, a travel guide, dance directors and a &ldquo;techspert.&rdquo; On longer cruises, a book club leader joins the team to lead lively group discussions.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas &mdash; Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the five ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:50:58',201,1,1,NULL,NULL,502,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(815,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Announces $200 Million in Enhancements to Five Ships as Part of Ongoing Signature of Excellence','123_692394800.jpg','2008-08-31 01:10:00','<p><font color=\"#000000\">Seattle, WA, Aug 30, 2008 - As part of its ongoing Signature of Excellence, <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">Holland </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">America </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">Line</span></font> is doubling the amount to be spent in upgrades, enhancements and new features on five of the line&rsquo;s most popular ships. Over the next two years, the ms Statendam, ms Ryndam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam will undergo extensive dry docks to create new venues, new staterooms, new d&eacute;cor and more. The 18-month, $200 million program will begin when Veendam enters an extended dock in spring 2009, and the last ship is slated for completion in late 2010.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The investment in this new series of enhancements will include a new <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; border-bottom: #0054a6 1px solid; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative; background-color: transparent\">resort</span></font> pool concept, innovative lanai staterooms, new entertainment and enrichment options, all new stateroom d&eacute;cor and more. Holland America Line&rsquo;s commitment to enhancing its premium fleet now exceeds $525 million.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Signature of Excellence features and amenities are evident in every aspect of the Holland America Line cruise experience, offering guests more luxurious accommodations, more enticing destinations, enhanced dining experiences, more creative activities and even higher levels of service.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Previously, during the first phase of Signature of Excellence, these five ships were enhanced with the Explorations Caf&eacute;, Culinary Arts Center, expanded Club HAL youth facilities and more. This next installment reinforces Holland America Line&rsquo;s commitment to its popular mid-sized ships. The enhancements will add more verandah staterooms, introduce a new category of stateroom, expand the Lido Deck&rsquo;s pool feature with The <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Retreat</span></font>, create a showroom at sea and upgrade staterooms, bathrooms and fixtures.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;Holland America Line has long been the leader in the premium cruise segment,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest services. &ldquo;This significant and continued investment reaffirms our commitment to our fleet of mid-sized ships and our ongoing leadership in the premium category by continually raising the bar in terms of products and services.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;In an era where <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">cruise </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">lines</span></font> are building ships to carry more than 5,000 passengers, Holland America Line remains focused on mid-sized vessels,&rdquo; said Meadows. &ldquo;These enhancements will blend the latest innovations for premium travel into our ships, creating a deluxe experience that is unparalleled.&rdquo;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The most dramatic alteration will be to the aft portion of the ships, allowing for a new resort-style pool area on Lido deck called The Retreat with a shallow area where guests may lounge in chairs and dip their fingers and toes in the water or relax on the bench and dangle their legs in the refreshing water. A new pool bar and an upscale pizzeria called Slice will be installed, as well as a canopy and wind screens to provide additional covered seating for the Lido Restaurant.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">All staterooms will receive new d&eacute;cor, carpeting and soft goods. Each ship also will have an additional 44 to 46 staterooms, 32 with verandahs and the remaining will be inside staterooms. On the four S-class ships, twelve staterooms near the spa (on Deck 9) also will have verandahs added, and along with three inside staterooms, become &rsquo;spa staterooms&rsquo; featuring a variety of enhanced spa amenities. On the Rotterdam, 23 staterooms on Verandah deck will become spa staterooms. On the five ships, forty-six new lanai staterooms will be created by replacing existing windows of 42 staterooms (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade, and adding four additional staterooms.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The program also involves enhancements to several of the public rooms. A Merabella luxury jewelry shop will be added. The Casino and Piano bars will be reconfigured into a multi-themed area called Mix with three separate bars - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Next door, the high-energy casino will be redesigned highlighting the always trendy table and slot games. The main show space will be transformed into the Showroom at Sea with the ambiance of a glamorous nightclub. The ever-popular Ocean Bar will be refurbished and carpets will be replaced in most public areas. The new Sky Room on Sports Deck will feature the latest in multi-generational video games and high-tech entertainment.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Entertainment and enrichment, or &ldquo;edutainment,&rdquo; is taking on a new, contemporary look and feel across the fleet. A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff, each specializing in a particular area, to educate and entertain guests with an expanded menu of activities including flower arranging, hands-on cooking, dancing and working with digital photos, blogs and movies. Each team consists of a party planner, a travel guide, dance directors and a &ldquo;techspert.&rdquo; On longer cruises, a book club leader joins the team to lead lively group discussions.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Renowned for service levels provided by its award-winning staff, the program will also include significant crew area enhancements including a new fitness facility, internet centers, staterooms and recreational areas.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The industry-leading Signature of Excellence initiative announced nearly five years ago in November 2003 has evolved into an ongoing and comprehensive review of every aspect of the Holland America Line experience. Signature of Excellence is Holland America Line&rsquo;s brand promise and continues to bring innovation and relevance to guests.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Signature of Excellence: By the Numbers<br />Statistics on Signature of Excellence to date include:</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">More than 2,000 people (including Holland America Line staff, shipyard workers, contractors and ship personnel) have tested and retested hundreds of items to ensure quality, coordinated delivery schedules and complex installations. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">10 million hours worked in dry-dock. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">1.2 million pounds of steel installed on the ships. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">695,743 luxury items added to staterooms, from Mariner&rsquo;s Dream beds and bathrobes to make-up mirrors and new blow dryers. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">49,372 pieces of electronic equipment, from televisions to CD players, DVD players to computers, installed on the 13 ships. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">27,000 book titles added to Explorations Caf&eacute;s. At one book a week, it would take more than 500 years to read them all. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">If you stacked all the new Euro-Top plush mattresses, they would reach 21,089 feet high - almost 770 feet higher than the summit of Alaska&rsquo;s Mt. McKinley. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">254 nautical miles of electrical cable installed on the ships - enough to reach from Ft. Lauderdale to just off shore of Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line&rsquo;s private Caribbean island. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">170 new ways to explore destinations on the Medallion, Signature, World Wonder and Encore Collection shore excursions. </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">60 nationalities represented by people working in the shipyards - a virtual United Nations. </font></li></ul>','2013-01-20 00:00:53',189,1,1,NULL,NULL,504,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(816,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Royal Caribbean announce latest neighborhoods on Oasis of the Seas','POOL_124834597.jpg','2008-08-31 01:12:00','<p>Royal Caribbean Cruises have revealed further exciting details about the much anticipated Oasis of the Seas. The Pool and Sports Zone and the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Centre are the two latest neighbourhood attractions to be announced after details were released about Central Park, the Boardwalk and the Aqua Park.</p><p><img src=\"http://www.cruisecrazies.com/cruisenews/o2.jpg\" border=\"0\" width=\"497\" height=\"296\" /></p><p>The Pool and Sports Zone will stretch the whole length of the enormous ship and will have features such as private cabanas, four pools and two FlowRider surf simulators, both of which are larger than the single FlowRider found on Freedom class ships in Royal Caribbean Cruises fleet such as Independence of the Seas. Highlights are the first ever beach pool at sea with sloped entry allowing guests to wade into the water, private cabanas overlooking the pools, interactive aquatic playground, a sports pools where water team sports take place in the afternoon, four cantilevered whirlpools suspended 136 feet above the ocean and the new Club 20 nightclub.</p><p><img src=\"http://www.cruisecrazies.com/cruisenews/o3.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></p><p>The Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness centre will have new spa relaxation rooms to encourage guests to unwind before any treatments, a thermal suite with heated tile loungers, saunas and steam rooms, three couples massage suites and a dedicated kids and teen Spa for younger guests. The Fitness centre will feature the latest cardio and resistance equipments and facilities for kick boxing, Pilates and yoga classes. There is also a Vitality Caf&eacute; for healthy smoothies, juices, snacks and light meals.</p><p><img src=\"http://www.cruisecrazies.com/cruisenews/o4.jpg\" border=\"0\" width=\"491\" height=\"278\" /></p><p>Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International commented:<br />&ldquo;This latest unveiling of two more neighbourhoods to be found on Oasis of the Seas continues to prove our legacy of revolutionary cruise ship design. We have developed the Pool and Sports Zone and the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center to give our guests even more choices on a unique and memorable Royal Caribbean cruise.&rdquo;</p><p>Royal Caribbean Cruises Oasis of the Seas is now open for ticket sales to the loyalty club members who have taken at least ten cruises with Royal Caribbean. Oasis of the Seas goes on general sale on 3 September 2008.</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:26',403,1,1,NULL,NULL,507,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,2,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(817,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Returning to Bermuda Roundtrip Cruises from New York City to Start in 2010','1334742994_0f8c48da4c_637926860.jpg','2008-09-01 23:52:00','<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - Beginning in 2010, Holland America Line will once again sail on regularly scheduled cruises between New York City and Bermuda. Holland America is the only major cruise line that calls on both Hamilton and St. George&rsquo;s, Bermuda&rsquo;s cultural and shopping hubs. Additionally, guests of Holland America Line will have an opportunity to fully experience Bermuda&rsquo;s British charm and its unique island culture by day and by night with multi-day stays in each port.</p><p>When the 1,350-guest ms Veendam sails in late August 2010 on the first of 10 roundtrips to the island, it will mark Holland America Line&rsquo;s return to New York City as a home port and to Bermuda as a destination.</p><p>Holland America Line worked closely with the Bermudian government to form the partnership that takes Holland America Line back to the island that it first visited more than 70 years ago. In 1926, Veendam II, with a guest capacity of approximately 500, left New York on the company&rsquo;s first Caribbean cruise. During the summers of 1930 and 1931, Veendam II sailed on five-day roundtrip cruises between New York and Bermuda.</p><p>&ldquo;We are thrilled to homeport a ship in New York City again and especially to be returning to Bermuda,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, &ldquo;and it&rsquo;s particularly relevant to be doing so on a ship with the same name as the one that sailed to Bermuda so many years ago&rdquo;.</p><p>&ldquo;Veendam is ideal for this itinerary,&rdquo; Meadows noted. &ldquo;She is a premium mid-size ship, the perfect size to navigate the narrow entrances to the harbors in Hamilton and St. George&rsquo;s. Veendam&rsquo;s guests are able to step off the ship right in the center of each town. Ships larger than Veendam must tie up at the Dockyard facility a considerable distance from both towns.</p><p>&ldquo;With overnight stays in Hamilton and St. George&rsquo;s, guests will truly have the time to explore Bermuda and gain an appreciation of its culture, its people and its history as well as the time to relax on the island&rsquo;s beaches, play a full round - or two - of golf on its world-renowned golf courses or partake of the many activities offered.&rdquo;</p><p>The clean and friendly historic island, with its forts to discover, horses to ride, kayaks to paddle and oceans to explore, is an excellent destinations for families. &ldquo;Cruising to Bermuda with Holland America Line is also an outstanding value when compared to staying in land-based resorts,&rdquo; Meadows noted.</p><p>&ldquo;We are looking forward to our new relationship with Holland America Line,&rdquo; said Bermuda&rsquo;s Premier, the Hon. Dr. Ewart F. Brown, JP, MP. &ldquo;When Veendam&rsquo;s passengers disembark in Bermuda they will be treated as warmly as they are on board. We believe Bermudians are among the friendliest people in the world and we can&rsquo;t wait to extend that hospitality to Veendam in 2010 and 2011. Holland America Line is one of the world&rsquo;s most recognized and highly regarded cruise brands and we look forward to our partnership.&rdquo;</p><p>In addition to the ten sailings between late August and October in 2010, Holland America Line will visit the island and its towns for a full season beginning in May the following year, with 20 or more sailings anticipated.</p><p>Founded in 1609, the town of St. George&rsquo;s in the northeast area of Bermuda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second oldest settlement in North America. Only Jamestown in the United States is older. Narrow, twisting streets and pastel-painted houses create a European feel. The oldest Anglican Church in North America is in St. George&rsquo;s and many other historic buildings, most made of stone, have been preserved. More than a dozen forts dating to the 17th century are scattered in the hills surrounding the town.</p><p>Hamilton, the major commercial hub and seat of government, is in the geographic center of the island and is close to south shore beaches. Veendam will dock at the town&rsquo;s front door just steps from Front Street and its colorful array of shops and restaurants. Hamilton is home to a massive 19th-century, neo-Gothic cathedral and the Georgian-style Sessions House dating to 1815.</p>','2013-01-20 00:00:33',381,1,1,NULL,NULL,506,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(818,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Princess Cruises introduce new fitness programs','gillian_937025292.jpg','2008-09-01 23:55:00','<p>Princess Cruises are making it even easier to stay fit on a cruise with them by introducing new ways for guests to exercise on their cruise holiday. Princess Cruises are launching the industry&rsquo;s first in-room fitness program, fun yoga classes for kids and teens and a new selection of Lotus Spa classes featuring three vitals components of balanced health.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Fitness@Sea is designed for cruisers of all ages and activity levels and these innovative fitness choices allow guests to exercise in the privacy of their own staterooms with classes hosted by celebrity trainer Gillian Clark, with nine different classes shown exclusively on Princess Cruises Wellness Channel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Debuting fleetwide this month, Fitness@Sea will also be shown on ships with Movies Under the Stars 300 square foot screens in the morning for those guests who like to exercise whilst enjoying the fresh sea air on open deck.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Yoga for kids and teens is another industry first and will introduce kids and teens in a fun and imaginable way to the benefits of yoga, whilst also promoting exercise in a fun and positive environment. The classes promote building coordination, breathing, balance and emotional strength with an element of play incorporating music, chants and singing. The classes are complimentary and range from 30 minutes to 1 hour, with parents welcome to participate.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Princess Cruises Lotus Spa will be promoting the exclusive Core.Balance.Strength fitness program which focuses on these three vital components of balanced health. There will be a series of classes that correspond with each fitness component, from Pilates and postural alignment, fusion yoga classes centring on mind and body to high energy strength and cardio classes to get the heart racing.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The new Core.Balance.Strength fitness program will be available on all Princess Cruises ships by the end of the year and a nominal fee is charged for each class.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>WiiFit is becoming a popular feature on Princess Cruises ships, with the revolutionary WiiFit balance games challenging guests of all ages to put their athletic skills to the test with active video game tournaments such as the ski jump, Hula Hoop and soccer balls. There are exciting family competitions held on board Princess Cruises ships, including on the dramatic Movies Under the Stars poolside screens.</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:19',216,1,1,NULL,NULL,505,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(819,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','MSC Cruises','Countdown To The Caribbean: MSC Cruises Ready For Exciting Season With Msc Orchestra, Msc Lirica','cruise_lirica_231343514.jpg','2008-09-04 12:36:00','<p>FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (SEPTEMBER 2, 2008) &ndash; The countdown continues as MSC Cruises prepares for an exciting 2008-09 Caribbean season that includes the much-anticipated arrival of MSC Orchestra in North American waters, several special theme cruises and new itineraries, including the line&rsquo;s first visits to Bermuda and New York. </p><p>Plus, there is still time to visit www.theorchestraiscomingtotown.com and enter to win a free cruise or other prizes.</p><p>The Italian-owned line is bringing two elegant ships &ndash; MSC Orchestra and MSC Lirica &ndash; to Fort Lauderdale for a season featuring seven itineraries and 16 enchanting ports. Both ships feature comfortable sophistication, vast public areas and the finest Italian hospitality, cuisine and international entertainment afloat.</p><p>MSC Orchestra is the largest of the line&rsquo;s ships to sail in North American waters. With spacious public areas and 5 restaurants (including the Shanghai Restaurant, an alternative dining option that is the only dedicated Chinese restaurant at sea), 10 bars, a 21-foot by 12-foot outdoor LED screen, and the 16,146 square-foot Body and Mind Spa, MSC Orchestra represents the perfect combination of grace and style.</p><p>Explore the Caribbean<br />Guests can experience the tropical Deep Caribbean, the wonders of the Western Caribbean, the jewels of the Eastern Caribbean, the exotic Caribbean featuring Panama or the pink sand beaches of Bermuda. </p><p>A highlight of both the Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries is a call at Cayo Levantado, the line&rsquo;s private paradise experience in the Dominican Republic. There, guests will have the option to explore pristine beaches, enjoy turquoise waters and natural rainforest or view humpback whales as they arrive in the warmer Caribbean waters off the coast to mate and enjoy their newborns.</p><p>MSC Orchestra will arrive in Fort Lauderdale on Jan. 2, 2009, beginning her inaugural season with a special two-night sailing. Then, on Jan. 10, 2009, she will begin her winter schedule, sailing alternating 7-night roundtrip itineraries through April 25, 2009:</p><p>Eastern Caribbean, calling at Cayo Levantado, Dominican Republic; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John&rsquo;s, Antigua; and Nassau, Bahamas, as well as two days at sea. <br />Western Caribbean, calling at Key West, Florida; Cozumel, Mexico; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cayo Levantado, Dominican Republic, and two days at sea. <br />A special 7-night roundtrip Bermuda sailing departs Fort Lauderdale April 25, 2009. This itinerary includes three days in King&rsquo;s Wharf, Bermuda and a day in Nassau, Bahamas, as well as two sea days.</p><p>MSC Orchestra is then scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale May 2, 2009 on an 18-night voyage that will include a two-day visit to New York before heading eastbound to Copenhagen. The itinerary includes calls at Ponta Delgado, Azores; Lisbon, Portugal; Vigo, Spain; La Coruna, Spain; and Dover, England before arriving in Copenhagen.</p><p>MSC Lirica will arrive in Fort Lauderdale Dec. 3, 2008 to begin a Caribbean season that includes the following itineraries:</p><p>10-night Deep Caribbean, calling at San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Port Castries, St. Lucia; St. John&rsquo;s, Antigua; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Cayo Levantado, as well as three days at sea. <br />10-night Caribbean featuring Panama, calling at Costa Maya, Mexico; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Cristobal, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and Cayo Levantado, and four days at sea; <br />7-night Western Caribbean, calling at Key West, Cozumel, Mexico; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cayo Levantado and two sea days. One of the Western Caribbean sailings is the New Year&rsquo;s cruise. <br />7-night Eastern Caribbean, calling at Cayo Levantado, Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Nassau, Bahamas, and two days at sea. This is the line&rsquo;s Christmas cruise. <br />MSC Lirica begins its eastbound transatlantic crossing on April 23, 2009. The 16-night cruise calls at San Juan, Puerto Rico; Fort de France, Martinique; Funchal, Portugal; Lisbon, Portugal; Vigo, Spain and Le Havre, France, before arriving in Dover, England on May 9, 2009.</p><p>Special Theme Cruises<br />In addition to exciting itineraries, MSC Cruises&rsquo; 2008-09 Caribbean season offers guests several unique experiences with special theme cruises:</p><p>Baseball Greats: Mingle and learn from some of the greats of the game on MSC Lirica&rsquo;s Dec. 13 sailing and MSC Orchestra&rsquo;s Jan. 24, Feb. 28, March 28 and April 11 departures. Activities include a player-hosted trivia game, question-and-answer and story-telling sessions, passenger pitching contest, player-hosted clinics and a free autograph session. <br />Big Band Cruise: MSC Lirica&rsquo;s Dec. 3 Deep Caribbean sailing presents the 15-piece Les DeMerle Big Band with vocalist Bonnie Eisele. The band features the sounds of Ellington, Basie, James and Miller, plus Broadway hits, rock &lsquo;n&rsquo; roll classics, hot Latin grooves and show-stoppers from the &lsquo;40s through today. The band will perform a Big Band Jazz Concert and lecture on the Big Band era. <br />Cruise-only prices for MSC Cruises&rsquo; 2008-09 Caribbean sailings begin at $449 per person, double occupancy and, on all sailings, kids 17 or younger sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. Government fees and taxes and a fuel surcharge are additional.</p><p>For more information about MSC Orchestra, visit www.theorchestraiscomingtotown.com, There is still time to visit the website, where guests will find:</p><p>Win Instantly &ndash; site visitors can register and enter daily for the chance to win a free 7-night cruise on MSC Orchestra in the Caribbean; <br />Information about the ship, including an extensive slide show and flash presentation complete with factoids; <br />Fun &amp; Free Stuff, including free downloadable wallpaper, e-cards, shuffle picture puzzles and memory games; and <br />Offers &ndash; special promotions on MSC Orchestra itineraries, including the line&rsquo;s &ldquo;Kids Sail Free&rdquo; offer. <br />For more information about MSC Cruises, visit a local travel professional.</p>','2013-01-20 00:01:20',191,1,1,NULL,NULL,508,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(820,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Norwegian cruise ship plagued by propulsion problem','123_489064130.jpg','2008-09-04 12:38:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line says a problem with the propulsion system on the Norwegian Pearl is forcing the ship to operate at reduced speeds. </p><p>The line says the slowdown will affect more than a half dozen upcoming cruises on the 2,394-passenger vessel before the company is able to fix the problem in an emergency dry dock planned for late October. </p><p>To make room for the dry dock the company is canceling the Pearl\'s seven-night Western Caribbean sailing scheduled for Oct. 26. </p><p>Norwegian says it found the problem -- described as wear in a thrust bearing in the ship\'s Azipod propulsion system -- during a routine inspection. It isn\'t the first time there have been problems with Azipod systems -- an advanced thruster system found on a number of Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Cunard, Costa and Norwegian ships.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>&quot;At Norwegian Cruise Line, the safety and security of our guests is our number one priority,&quot; the line said today in a statement. &quot;The Azipod issues reducing the ship&rsquo;s speed in no way impact the safe operation of the vessel.&quot;&nbsp; </p><p>The following Norwegian Pearl itineraries have been modified as a result of the reduced speed:</p><p>-- The seven-night Alaska sailings on Sept. 1, Sept. 7, Sept. 14. Calls in Victoria, British Colombia have been shortened and, as a result, passengers will not be allowed to disembark.</p><p>-- The 19-night Panama Canal sailing from Seattle to Miami on Sept. 21. Calls in San Francisco and Los Angeles have been cancelled, and a stop in Huatulco, Mexico has been added. The timing of stops in Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Cartagena, Colombia have been altered slightly. NCL is offering passengers on the trip an on-board credit of $50 per person (maximum $100 per stateroom).</p><p>-- The seven-night Western Caribbean sailings from Miami on Oct. 12 and Oct. 19. Calls in Roatan, Honduras are now from 11 am to 7 pm instead of 8 am to 5 pm.</p><p>Norwegian is offering passengers booked on the canceled Oct. 26 sailing a full refund and a 25% future cruise credit based on the cruise fare paid on the sailing (good on any NCL ship through Oct. 26, 2009).</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:27',220,1,1,NULL,NULL,509,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(821,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Princess Cruises to open off-limit crew areas to tours','123_559933051.jpg','2008-09-04 12:41:00','<p>Have you always wondered what happens behind the scenes on a cruise ship?</p><p>You\'ll soon be able to find out -- assuming you sail on a Princess ship. The Love Boat line says it will launch what\'s billed as the industry\'s first comprehensive &quot;back of the house&quot; tour in November. </p><p>Dubbed The Ultimate Ship Tour, the guided explorations will debut on the soon-to-launch Ruby Princess (pictured above) and eventually spread fleet-wide. The tours will take passengers to the engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab and even the bridge.<br />&nbsp;</p><p>All good things come with a price, of course, and cruise junkies will have to fork over $150 per person for the three-hour tours, which can be reserved on board vessels at the Passenger Service Desk. The tours will be offered once or twice per cruise, and space will be limited. </p><p>The tours include a chance to meet quite a few crew members. One stop, for instance, will be the back stage area of the ship\'s theater, where passengers will meet cast and production staff who will show them what goes into putting on a show. In the galley area, passengers will meet the executive chef, who will explain the process of preparing meals for thousands of people at a time. </p><p>In one of the most unusual stops, the ship\'s staff captain will accompany passengers to the top deck of the ship to peek inside the ship&rsquo;s funnel area. At the last stop, on the ship\'s bridge, tour-goers will meet the captain and learn about the navigational equipment and safety systems on board. </p><p>The 3,070-passenger Ruby Princess, as we reported last month, will be christened Nov. 6 by The Bachelorette\'s Trista and Ryan Sutter. The 113,000-ton vessel will spend its inaugural season sailing to the Western Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale before heading to Europe next summer.</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:29',348,1,1,NULL,NULL,516,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(822,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Princess Cruises Debuts New &#039;Ultimate Ship Tour&#039; with Launch of Ruby Princess','123_834491196.jpg','2008-09-04 12:43:00','<p>SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Most cruise ship passengers are aware that behind the scenes of their relaxing cruise vacation there\'s a bustle of activity to deliver an excellent experience, but few have gotten an up-close look at these inner workings. This will change in November with the debut of Ruby Princess as Princess Cruises introduces an industry first, The Ultimate Ship Tour, an exclusive opportunity to experience an array of &quot;back of house&quot; areas that are key to a ship\'s daily operations.</p><p><br />This pioneering concept will give passengers the unique opportunity to explore beyond the public areas with visits to the ship\'s engine control room, medical center, print shop, laundry, photo lab, bridge and other spaces for a rare insider\'s view of many areas typically seen only by the ship\'s crew. Participants will also receive a variety of themed mementos at many of the stops along the route.</p><p>&quot;This tour is really the ultimate opportunity for some of our passengers to get a very unique view of the new Ruby Princess, and meet some of the ship\'s senior officers in their working environment,&quot; said Jan Swartz, Princess senior vice president. &quot;I\'m sure people will be amazed at what goes into running a city at sea, particularly since our onboard staff makes it appear so easy.&quot;</p><p>The Ultimate Ship Tour lasts approximately three hours, and will be offered once or twice per cruise on a sea day. Space is limited for the tour, which will be available for $150 per person, and can be reserved onboard at the Passenger Services Desk. Following its debut aboard Ruby Princess, the program will be introduced aboard all Princess ships.</p><p>The innovative tour will feature:</p><p>Back Stage Area -- Passengers start the tour with a glimpse behind the glitz in the Princess Theater, home to Princess\' sparkling stage productions. They\'ll meet the cast and production staff, who will show them all that goes into making sure the show goes on night after night -- including costumes and dressing areas, scenery and technical operations such as lighting and sound.</p><p>Galley and Food Production Areas -- In the galley, guests will meet the executive chef, learn about the process of providing thousands of passengers meals each day, and see the inner workings of the ship\'s kitchen areas while enjoying a glass of French champagne, caviar and canapes. In addition, passengers will get a peek into some of Ruby Princess\' vast food storage and production areas, each specially equipped and temperature-controlled for a specific type of food. Each guest will also be presented with an official chef\'s jacket.</p><p>Engine Control Room -- At the center of the vessel\'s mechanical and electrical systems, the engine control room is where the ship\'s technical team monitors everything from the operation of the ship\'s propellers to the water supply in each stateroom. Participants will meet the chief technical offer and his staff who will explain the numerous functions overseen by the control room, including the vast amount of power generated to operate Ruby Princess.</p><p>Print Shop -- Passengers will see where their daily Princess Patter, among other things, is produced. The ship\'s printer will meet the group and demonstrate the printing equipment and explain which materials passengers see each day are printed right onboard Ruby Princess. To mark their visit, each passenger will receive their own set of personalized stationery printed on board.</p><p>Photo Laboratory -- Princess was the first cruise line to go completely digital, and each ship operates a full photo lab with the latest in digital printing equipment. The group will meet the Ruby Princess photo staff and learn how they manage the thousands of pictures taken and printed each day. Participants might even see their own smiling faces print out during their visit.</p><p>Medical Center -- The ship\'s doctor will meet the group to show them the state-of-the-art medical facilities, including treatment rooms, laboratory facilities, intensive care unit, and digital x-ray system. Participants will learn how the ship\'s doctors and nurses -- all full-time maritime medicine specialists -- keep both passengers and crew healthy and handle medical emergencies. They\'ll also learn about the most common reasons passengers visit the medical center.</p><p>Main Laundry -- Ruby Princess\' onboard laundries operate 24 hours a day to wash tons of passenger and crew linens, towels, and clothing -- including more than 20,000 towels a day alone. Here visitors will meet the laundry master and will see this impressive operation in action. Participants will also receive a luxurious bath robe usually reserved for suite passengers.</p><p>Funnel -- The group will then travel to the upper most deck of the ship to join the staff captain for the opportunity to peek inside the ship\'s funnel area high atop Ruby Princess, where they will be treated to spectacular views of the ship and the surrounding ocean.</p><p>Bridge -- The tour concludes at the ship\'s command center, where passengers will meet the captain and his bridge team and learn about the state-of-the-art navigational equipment and safety systems aboard Ruby Princess. Passengers will also take in the dramatic front-of-ship views from the bridge\'s wraparound windows, while they enjoy special refreshments and pose with the captain at the ship\'s wheel for a complimentary photo. The framed photo and a tour completion certificate signed by the captain will later be delivered to each participant\'s stateroom.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:53',279,1,1,NULL,NULL,511,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,'Rare Behind-the-Scenes Access Will Give Passengers Exclusive Insider&#039;s View of Ship Operations ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(823,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','Pacific Sun Dry Dock Provides Economic Boost for Brisbane','1293415791_27fdc68bc6_639680005.jpg','2008-09-04 12:46:00','<p align=\"left\">Brisbane is about to receive a significant economic boost, with P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; Pacific Sun heading to the local Forgacs Cairncross Dockyard in Morningside for scheduled maintenance work and a major refurbishment this weekend. </p><p align=\"left\">The 47,000-tonne liner will go into the dry dock late on Saturday (Aug 30) for a 12-day overhaul, and will sail on her next South Pacific cruise on Saturday September 13. </p><p align=\"left\">The multi-million dollar dry dock project will involve around 280 tradesmen employed by Forgacs Engineering as well as more than as well as more than 200 P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; contractors, who will work on the internal refurbishment. </p><p align=\"left\">The Forgacs&rsquo; team will work in shifts around the clock to complete the project, which the company estimates will take about 25,000 hours, encompassing machinery and equipment overhauls as well as piping and electrical work. Painters will also be kept busy, with more than 10,000 litres of paint set to be applied to Pacific Sun as her livery is transformed to a classic all-white look. </p><p align=\"justify\">Meanwhile, P&amp;O Cruises is using the dry dock as an opportunity to change some interior sections of the ship, with the refurbishment to include the addition of a stunning new adults-only Oasis spa retreat and an ocean-view gym. </p><p align=\"left\">Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia which operates P&amp;O Cruises, said the dry dock would make a significant contribution to the Queensland economy in terms of expenditure on labour and materials. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;Earlier this year Access Economics estimated that expenditure when cruise ships are in port is worth $164 million a year to Queensland and $734 million nationally,&quot; Ms Sherry said. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;This dry dock work is above and beyond that estimate and further underlines the value of our industry to Queensland.&quot; </p><p align=\"left\">Forgacs Engineering Global Sales Director George Windram said the company had worked hard to develop its cruise ship business since 2000, with the sector growing to represent 20 per cent of its turnover during that time. </p><p align=\"left\">&quot;With the expansion of the Australian cruise industry over the past few years we&rsquo;ve seen a real opportunity to increase our business, so we&rsquo;ve invested in the necessary training. </p><p>&quot;We&rsquo;ve also learnt to work alongside cruise companies and accommodate their refurbishment crews while we work on the maintenance side of things, which is very important for the cruise sector.&quot; </p>','2013-01-24 00:26:06',304,1,1,NULL,NULL,512,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(824,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','P&amp;O Cruises replaces Oriana&#039;s 2010 world voyage with two month-long Caribbean itineraries','1496114817_7453cbacbe_912047138.jpg','2008-09-04 12:48:00','In a break with tradition, P&amp;O Cruises is offering two new Caribbean Connoisseur sailings in early 2010, each of five weeks, instead of the traditional world voyage, on the 69,000 gross ton Oriana. <br /><br />&quot;The itineraries both depart from and return to Southampton, meaning British holidaymakers can sail to, from and around the Caribbean without having to fly &ndash; or endure any of the stresses associated with airports and flying,&quot; P&amp;O Cruises said.<br /><br />Departing on 8 January 2010, the first new itinerary spends 36 nights visiting popular Caribbean islands and Central American ports of call such as St. Lucia, Barbados, Limon, Santo Tomas de Castilla and Montego Bay. It includes a partial transit through the Panama Canal and costs from &pound;2,499 per person.<br /><br />The second newly added voyage sails on 13 February 2010 and visits 13 ports in the Caribbean and USA in 35 nights, with prices starting from &pound;2,399 per person. Destinations on the itinerary include St. Maarten, Grand Cayman, New Orleans, Tampa and Princess Cays.<br /><br />P&amp;O Cruises managing director, Nigel Esdale, said: &ldquo;These new holidays will offer UK holidaymakers a more leisurely and relaxing way to escape the British winter and visit warmer climes. They will appeal to people who want a comprehensive exploration of the Caribbean, without having to set foot on an aeroplane, and to those who can&rsquo;t be away for such a long period of time as a world voyage.&rdquo;','2013-01-19 23:52:48',166,1,1,NULL,NULL,513,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(825,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Port of New Orleans, LA','New Orleans Port Facilities Spared Serious Damage','IMG_3233_edit_214999522.jpg','2008-09-04 12:50:00','<p>Port of New Orleans facilities were spared serious damage in the wake of Hurricane Gustav, and Coast Guard and Port officials are working to expedite the reopening of the Mississippi River to deep-draft vessel traffic. &ldquo;Our Mississippi River facilities, which constitute more than 80 percent of our cargo operations, received very minimal wind damage,&rdquo; said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been in touch with all of our terminal operators and are working with them to restart cargo operations as soon as possible.&rdquo; </p><p>The U.S. Coast Guard has reopened the Mississippi River to shallow-draft vessels. Overall, the port sustained minimal damage to its Mississippi River facilities from the Henry Clay Avenue Wharf upriver to the Alabo Street Terminal downriver. Minor damage, such as damaged fencing, transformers, doors and signage, was reported. &ldquo;All of our preparations and plans worked well and we anticipate restarting operations as soon as power is restored and the population is allowed back into the city,&rdquo; said Jeff Hakala, vice president of New Orleans Terminals, which operates half of the Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal. For more information, visit <a href=\"http://www.portno.com/\">www.portno.com</a>.</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:03',222,1,1,NULL,NULL,517,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(826,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Carnival Corporation &amp; plc Announces Exchange Rate for Quarterly Dividend','123_263102338.jpg','2008-09-04 12:52:00','<p>MIAMI, Sept 02, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ ----On July 14, 2008, Carnival Corporation &amp; plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.40 (U.S.) per share. The dividend is payable on September 12, 2008, to shareholders of record on August 22, 2008. </p><p>Holders of Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ADSs will receive a dividend payable in U.S. dollars. The dividend for Carnival plc ordinary shares will be payable in sterling unless shareholders elected to receive the dividend in U.S. dollars by August 22, 2008. </p><p>Dividends payable in sterling will be converted from U.S. dollars at the exchange rate quoted by the Bank of England in London at 12 noon on September 2, 2008 (US$1 = 56.11987 pence). Accordingly, the dividend payable in sterling on September 12, 2008, will be 22.44795 pence per share. </p><p>Carnival Corporation &amp; plc is the largest cruise vacation group in the world, with a portfolio of cruise brands in North America, Europe and Australia, comprised of Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Ibero Cruises, Ocean Village, P&amp;O Cruises and P&amp;O Cruises Australia. </p><p>Together, these brands operate 88 ships totaling more than 167,000 lower berths with 18 new ships scheduled to be delivered between October 2008 and June 2012. Carnival Corporation &amp; plc also operates Holland America Tours and Princess Tours, the leading tour companies in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation &amp; plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&amp;P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices. </p>','2013-01-19 23:52:32',204,1,1,NULL,NULL,514,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(827,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','New Nickelodeon itineraries for Royal Caribbean','123_831652311.jpg','2008-09-04 12:58:00','<p>Royal Caribbean Cruises have announced that families will have further opportunities to sail on Nickelodeon-themed cruises, following the success of the first Nickelodeon cruise sailing in the western Caribbean this month on Freedom of the Seas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The seven day cruise was filled with splats and surprises, nautical nonsense, Nickelodeon characters and TV stars and lots of slime! The themed cruises are designed to entertain the entire family with interactive shows and performances from all the children&rsquo;s favourite characters including Dora the Explorer, Diego and SpongeBob SquarePants.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The first of the new itineraries sets sail on 26 July 2009 for a seven day cruise through the Mexican Riviera on Mariner of the Seas. The Freedom of the Seas departs on the 9 August 2009 for a seven day cruiser through eastern Caribbean.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Commenting on the announcement, Cyma Zarghami, President of Nickelodeon Kids and Family Group, said: &quot;The first Nickelodeon cruise was a home run &hellip; Populated by Nickelodeon families eager to spend time together, the combination of Royal Caribbean\'s expertise and the Nick brand experience set the stage for next year.&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Royal Caribbean Cruises have also recently released further details of their newest ship currently under construction, Oasis of the Seas. The announcements detail two further neighbourhoods and deck plans.</p>','2013-01-19 23:56:49',175,1,1,NULL,NULL,515,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(828,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Cruises cheaper now than 10 years ago','money_581156059.jpg','2008-09-04 13:00:00','<p>It has been discovered that cruises are more affordable now than they were 10 years ago. P&amp;O Cruises have carried out the research that found out this fact &ndash; what a great excuse to book up your next cruise holiday!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises found that a 2 week cruise holiday this summer in an ocean view stateroom will cost &pound;1,579 per person. The same holiday in 1998 would have cost &pound;2,520 per person. An ocean view stateroom on P&amp;O Oriana cruise ship this year would cost &pound;3,158 per person, 37% less than 10 years ago when the same cabin would have cost &pound;5,040 per person.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises managing director Nigel Esdale believes, &quot;The cumulative inflation rate between May 1998 and May 2008 is 32%, so if cruise holidays had increased accordingly, then our prices should be more than double those in this summer\'s brochure. In actual fact, this year\'s prices are more than &pound;900 cheaper per person, almost &pound;2,000 cheaper for a couple than ten years ago.&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Esdale also adds that, &quot;Household expenditure on everyday items has practically doubled, while cruise holidays have become more affordable than ever. Considering a cruise holiday today includes accommodation, almost all food, entertainment and even flights, the research proves the exceptional value it provides at a time when the credit crunch is hitting our wallets in every aspect of our daily life. Passengers can eat in the restaurant of a celebrity chef, try bungee trampolining and circus skills, enjoy a martini in a contemporary designer bar or see a West End style show at minimal cost.&quot;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>P&amp;O Cruises have even set up a website page where holidaymakers can compare the value for money that a cruise holiday offers.</p>','2013-01-19 23:56:52',194,1,1,NULL,NULL,510,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(829,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Off Radar Openview','QE2 to lose her main engines','157390605_c282655784_968890057.jpg','2008-09-04 04:01:00','<p>Although details about the future look and appearance of Cunard&rsquo;s venerable QE2 in her new role as a floating hotel in Dubai are still a closely guarded secrete, it has emerged that as she will spend the rest of her life moored alongside the Palm Jumeirah development in the Emirate, she will not need her main engines.</p><p>Reports from Dubai suggest that the nine MAN-B&amp;W L58/64 diesel engines fitted to the vessel during her massive 1986 refit in Bremerhaven will be taken out and sold on for further use.&nbsp; Other reports from the Middle East suggest that the diesels have already found new homes, powering pumping stations in Dubai and Panama.&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:57:25',262,1,1,NULL,NULL,518,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(830,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cunard Cruise Line','Cunard Line Announces 2010 World Cruises','123_747560789.jpg','2008-09-08 00:55:00','<p>Sept 4 &ndash; Cunard&rsquo;s two modern luxury liners, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, will depart in January 2010 on their World Cruises, continuing the line&rsquo;s rich tradition of offering the most spectacular and historic World Cruises on The Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World. Queen Mary 2&rsquo;s Royal Route of Exploration will chart a completely new, Eastbound-Westbound route on a unique itinerary of 101 days featuring 19 maiden calls, three overnight stays (in Hong Kong, Sydney and Cape Town) and her inaugural visit to South Africa. Queen Victoria&rsquo;s 99-day Voyage of Discovery circumnavigation includes 11 maiden ports of call, three overnights (in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai) and three convenient U.S. embarkation gateways: New York, Ft. Lauderdale and San Francisco. Guests who book by Feb. 28, 2009 receive an additional 10% off Early Booking Fares.</p><p>&ldquo;On this pair of epic voyages, Cunard continues a storied tradition that began nearly 90 years ago,&rdquo; said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. &ldquo;In 2010, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria will visit a combined 31 countries, 57 ports and 30 maiden calls, continuing our legacy of impeccable White Star Service&trade;, fine dining and unrivaled accommodations.&rdquo;</p><p>In addition to full World Cruises, the ships offer a wide range of Liner and Segment voyages, which are now open for booking. These shorter voyages are ideal for travelers who wish to explore a specific part of the world or those whose busy schedules preclude an around-the-world journey.</p><p>Queen Mary 2<br />The world&rsquo;s grandest liner will sail a completely new itinerary departing New York on January 4 on a voyage spanning 101 days. This fascinating itinerary takes Queen Mary 2 east through the Mediterranean to India, the Far East and Australia and New Zealand before returning to New York westbound via South Africa, South America and North America. Queen Mary 2 will visit 35 ports, more than ever before on a single voyage, including Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo (Yokohama), Auckland, Sydney and Perth (Fremantle). In addition, she will make 19 maiden calls, including her inaugural visit to South Africa (calling at Durban and Cape Town), and first-ever calls at Phuket (Thailand), Vung Tau (Vietnam), Guam, Rabaul, the Whitsundays Islands and Mauritius. The ship will make three overnights in the celebrated ports of Hong Kong, Sydney and Cape Town.</p><p>In addition, Queen Mary 2 will offer 12 Liner Voyages, ranging in length from 35 to 80 days, including the 63-day New York to Sydney voyage and the 57-day Dubai to Cape Town voyage. Five shorter Segment Voyages of 17 to 23 days include the 23-day New York to Dubai voyage (which includes three maiden calls: Port Said, Safaga and Muscat) and 17-day Dubai to Hong Kong voyage (including four maiden calls: Mumbai, Phuket, Penang and Ho Chi Minh City).</p><p>Queen Victoria<br />Cunard&rsquo;s newest Queen, the regal Queen Victoria, will begin her third full year in service with a traditional 99-day westbound circumnavigation of the globe from New York to Southampton featuring three convenient U.S. embarkation points. The ship sails from New York on January 12, embarking guests in Ft. Lauderdale on January 15 and San Francisco on January 27. Highlights of Queen Victoria&rsquo;s third World Cruise include three overnight calls in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai, as well as 11 maiden calls. The ship will traverse the Panama and Suez Canals, visiting 41ports including Acapulco, Melbourne, Shanghai, San Francisco, Cartagena, Phuket and Sharm El Sheikh. Guests have the option of adding a seven-day Transatlantic extension from Southampton to New York aboard Queen Mary 2, for a full 106-day circumnavigation.</p><p>In addition, the ship will offer 11 Liner Voyages, ranging in length from 32 to 82 days, including the 52-day San Francisco to Bangkok voyage and the 67-day New York to Bangkok voyage. Five shorter Segment Voyages of 15 to 29 days include the 23-day San Francisco to Sydney voyage.</p><p>Early Booking Fares &amp; World Cruise Benefits</p><p>Cunard&rsquo;s Early Booking Fares for the full World Cruise, Liner and Segment voyages represent a per-person savings of up to 10% when booked by Feb. 28, 2009. In addition, on-board credits of up to $2,000 per stateroom are available when booked by this date. Full World Cruise guests who book by Feb. 28 enjoy a wide range of special benefits including complimentary hotel and dining charges, special commemorative gifts, welcome aboard reception, senior officer dinner and three World Cruise cocktail parties. All guests who book the Full World Cruise will enjoy a gala World Cruise dinner. Grill accommodation guests also enjoy up to five exclusive, complimentary events ashore. Both ships feature three enchanting Overland Tours, which allow guests to leave the ship in one port for a multi-day tour (including all transfers and accommodations) and rejoin the voyage later. Aboard Queen Mary 2, Overland Tours explore Egypt, India and Africa, while Queen Victoria&rsquo;s Overland Tours highlight Indochina, China and Australia.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:58',218,1,1,NULL,NULL,519,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(831,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Crystal Cruises','New Premium Air Option Available With Crystal’S 2009 Northern European Cruises','123_300585213.jpg','2008-09-08 00:58:00','<p>LOS ANGELES, September 4, 2008 - Travelers seeking more legroom and comfort than traditional coach &mdash; without the price tag of business class &mdash; can now purchase optional Premium Economy air service with Crystal Cruises&rsquo; 2009 summer cruises to the Baltic, North Cape and British Isles. The service is available with all seven Crystal Symphony cruises from June through August from select U.S. and Canadian gateways. Air add-on fares to London, Copenhagen and Stockholm via British Airways or Scandinavian Airlines are just $400 to $650 more, one way, than Crystal&rsquo;s coach air-sea fares.</p><p>Crystal&rsquo;s 2009 Northern European season includes five Baltic Sea/Russia cruises, one North Cape cruise and one British Isles itinerary, ranging from seven to 14 days. Cruise fares start at $3,615 per person, double occupancy.</p><p>The luxury line is also offering low Business Class air supplements from selected U.S. gateways for all summer Baltic, British Isles and Mediterranean cruises. Upgraded service starts at only $799 one way, $1598 round trip, to the Baltic and British Isles, and $899 one way, $1798 round trip, to the Mediterranean - up to 75% lower than unrestricted published business class fares. Business class air upgrades are in addition to Crystal&rsquo;s published air/sea fares, and are available from 17 U.S. gateways with cruises beginning June 18 through the end of August 2009.</p><p>Restrictions apply for air arrangements. For additional information on Baltic and Northern European itineraries, please contact a travel agent or call 888-799-4625. Visit the luxury line&rsquo;s website at crystalcruises.com.</p><p>The Crystal Difference</p><p>Crystal Cruises enjoys a reputation for excellence, grounded in over a decade of prestigious accolades. The luxury line has been voted &ldquo;World&rsquo;s Best&rdquo; by the readers of Cond&eacute; Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure more than any other cruise line, resort or hotel in history.</p><p>Aboard the ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, refined elegance meets casual simplicity. With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is distinguished by classic service, abundant space, extensive choices and superior quality, providing worldwide vacations that bridge the best of land and sea.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:57:43',215,1,1,NULL,NULL,520,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(832,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cunard Cruise Line','Bob Hope Estate Charity Auction Kicks Off with &quot;Bon Voyage&quot; Luncheon Honoring Linda Hope Aboard Queen Mary 2 in New York','princess_BobHope2_189820773.jpg','2008-09-08 00:59:00','<strong>September 4, 2008 -</strong> Linda Hope, daughter of legendary entertainer Bob Hope, and Lucie Arnaz, daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz and long-time family friend, Cunard\'s Commodore Bernard Warner and Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line, gathered at a Bon Voyage luncheon aboard Queen Mary 2 to begin the international preview tour of the first and only auction of an unprecedented collection of memorabilia from the life, career and estate of the beloved entertainer. Bob Hope was a frequent guest on Cunard ocean liners for more than 50 years. Familiar faces and friends of the Hope family who joined the festive send-off included Maria Cooper, daughter of screen icon Gary Cooper, and NBC Anchor Chuck Scarborough. <br /><br />The items will be sold during a live televised online auction conducted by Julien\'s Auctions in October 2008 and Cunard is providing an exclusive auction preview onboard Queen Mary 2\'s September 4 Transatlantic Crossing. &quot;I can\'t think of a more appropriate location for this auction preview than on a grand Cunard liner,&quot; said Linda Hope. &quot;Dad would have been delighted to know that some of his most cherished treasures will tour on this preview and will ultimately find their way into the hands and hearts of his fans.&quot; <br /><br />Linda Hope set sail on the six-day voyage from New York to Southampton. During the crossing, she will present a personal look inside the life of her world-famous father, discuss some of his most memorable film and television moments and offer anecdotes about some of the historic memorabilia showcased onboard. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Bob and Dolores Hope Charitable Foundation to support Veteran\'s causes.<br /><br />&quot;We are delighted to welcome Linda Hope aboard to celebrate the legacy of her father and present our guests with once-in-a-lifetime programmes that illustrate his contributions both as an entertainer and humanitarian,&quot; said Carol Marlow. &quot;Not only is he recognized among the most celebrated entertainers of our time, but he was a beloved Cunard guest who often practiced his golf drives from the upper decks of Queen Mary and QE2.&quot;','2013-01-20 00:02:17',168,1,1,NULL,NULL,522,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Pictured L-R: Commodore Bernard Warner, Linda Hope, Lucie Arnaz and Carol Marlow',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(833,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','ModernAgent Travel Pulse','Travel Leaders Names Holland America Top Cruise Line','Oosterdam_PC_01_200473719.jpg','2008-09-08 01:00:00','<p>Travel Leaders, formally Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates, last month named Holland America Line its Cruise Line Supplier of the Year. In a survey of all Travel Leaders associates, the premium line came out on top for service, sales support and cruise product. &ldquo;We have enjoyed a long and productive relationship with the Travel Leaders group and are honored to be named the travel network&rsquo;s Cruise Line Supplier of the Year,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president for marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;Our sales team consistently puts forth the kind of extra effort to help travel sellers that gets recognized by our community.&rdquo;</p><p><br />&ldquo;We appreciate the dedication and passion that Holland America Line&rsquo;s sales team brings to our partnership,&rdquo; said Mark Masuda, vice president of Travel Leaders. &ldquo;Their collaborative approach and drive to grow our business together has proven to be a formula for success. We are extremely proud to name Holland America Line as our cruise line supplier of the year.&rdquo; Holland America Line has 165 dedicated sales staff in the areas of field sales, national accounts, sales support, charter and incentive, promotions, groups and sales management. The premium line has 46 two-person business development teams comprised of a field-based business development manager and a Seattle-based business development representative to provide representation to travel sellers. For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com or www.travelleaders.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:32',397,1,1,NULL,NULL,523,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(834,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Costa Cruises','Costa Introduces Past-Guest Program to U.S.','123_820694532.jpg','2008-09-08 01:02:00','<p>Costa Cruises has launched its past guest recognition program, <strong>&quot;Costa Club,&quot;</strong> in the United States. The club is dedicated to past guests who choose Costa as their preferred cruise line, with members receiving special offers and privileges.&nbsp;</p><p>Guests enrolled receive benefits based on the number of cruises taken, coupled with onboard purchases. Each guest receives 100 points for every day they cruise and 40 points for every $60 spent onboard that is registered on their personal onboard cruise card. There are three membership levels: <strong>Aquamarine</strong>, for members who have earned up to 2,000 points; <strong>Coral</strong>, for members who have earned between 2,001 and 5,000 points; and <strong>Pearl</strong>, for guests who have earned 5,001 points or more. &nbsp;</p><p>As a club member, guests are also entitled to a 5 percent discount off Early Booking Fares on a variety of select itineraries.</p><p>Past guests can enroll in Costa Club by completing and mailing in a membership application at www.costacruises.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:52:24',156,1,1,NULL,NULL,524,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(835,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jason Garcia, Orlando Sentinel','Disney cruise ship to get Fantasia-themed splash pool, LCD TVs','magic_2_443786615.jpg','2008-09-08 01:05:00','The Disney <em>Magic</em> cruise ship will get a splash pool themed around the movie &quot;Fantasia,&quot; new 22-inch, LCD television sets in cabins and a series of other upgrades during a nearly three-week stay in dry dock later this month. <p>Disney says the 385-square-foot &quot;Mickey\'s Splash Zone&quot; will be added onto the Mickey Pool on the ship\'s deck nine. Themed around the &quot;Sorcerer\'s Apprentice&quot; segment in Fantasia, it will feature star- and moon-shaped fountains and splash areas (including, Disney says, an area for &quot;children not yet toilet trained and in swim diapers&quot;). </p><p>The new televisions, meanwhile, will be mounted on swivel arms so they can be watched from different spots in a stateroom.</p><p>Other upgrades to the 2,700-passenger <em>Magic</em>, according to a release Disney issued earlier this week, will include new waterfalls from a pair of hot tubs in the pool at the adult-oriented &quot;Quiet Cove;&quot; plush new chairs at the nearby &quot;Cove Cafe;&quot; and new registration areas to allow &quot;radio frequency identification&quot; at the kid-focused &quot;Oceaneer Club&quot; and &quot;Oceaneer Lab&quot; that will ultimately allow children to check in and out by tapping a sensor with with tag-embedded wristbands. </p><p>Disney also plans to apply a new hull coating during the dry dock in Norfolk, Va., that is designed to reduce surface resistance in the water and improve fuel efficiency. </p>','2013-01-19 23:55:49',278,1,1,NULL,NULL,528,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(836,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Cunard unveils groundbreaking world cruise for 2010','cunard_cruise_line_queen_ma_752834209.jpg','2008-09-08 01:05:00','<p>It\'ll be the longest cruise ever for the Queen Mary 2. And the most unusual. </p><p>Cunard announced Thursday that its four-year-old flagship will head off-the-beaten path in 2010 when it comes time for its annual world cruise, following a rare eastbound routing from New York to Europe, the Middle East and Asia before turning back westward to Africa and South America. </p><p>The 101-day Royal Route of Exploration, as the line is calling the epic voyage, will feature 19 maiden calls for the 2,600-passenger vessel, including the ship\'s first visit to South Africa. The trip also will include three overnight stays -- in Hong Kong, Sydney and Cape Town, South Africa.</p><p>The unusual itinerary -- most world cruises follow a westward course from the USA across the Pacific to Asia, the Middle East and Europe -- will include calls in Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo (Yokohama), Auckland, Sydney and Perth (Fremantle). Maiden calls for the ship include Durban and Cape Town in South Africa; Phuket, Thailand; Vung Tau, Vietnam; Guam; and Mauritius.</p><p>The voyage begins Jan. 4, 2010. Fares start at $21,666 per person -- or about $215 per day.</p><p>As usual, Cunard also will sell shorter segments of the world cruise ranging from 17 to 80 days in length. Among them: A 63-day segment from New York to Sydney priced from $13,716 -- a rare chance to sail eastbound from the USA to Australia without switching ships or taking a plane. Another notable, 57-day segment will take passengers from Dubai to Cape Town (prices start at 12,379).</p><p>The Queen Mary 2 voyage is one of two world cruises Cunard plans for 2010. Sailing a more traditional route is the Queen Victoria, which will spend 99 days circumnavigating the globe on a westward tack. The ship will depart New York on Jan. 12 and head through the Caribbean for a Panama Canal crossing to the Pacific and then to Asia, the Middle East and Europe.</p><p>The Queen Victoria\'s voyage will include overnight calls in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai, as well as 11 maiden calls. Among 41 port calls: Acapulco, Melbourne, Shanghai, San Francisco, Cartagena, Phuket and Sharm El Sheikh. Fares start at $21,276 per person.</p><p>Passengers who book the cruises by Feb. 28, 2009 will receive an additional 10% off Early Booking Fares and an on-board credit of up to $2,000 per cabin.</p>','2013-01-20 00:01:35',212,1,1,NULL,NULL,526,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(837,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Cruise ships rerouting trips to save fuel','308350031_49f2b94b3e_492267301.jpg','2008-09-08 01:08:00','<p>PORTLAND, Maine&nbsp;&mdash; When the 1,020-foot Explorer of the Seas cruises through North Atlantic waters next year, it\'ll spend more time off the coast of New England and less time near Canadian shores, and it\'s not because of better vistas.</p><p>Royal Caribbean International and other cruise lines have begun charting a new course in search of routes that eat up less fuel. Already one of the industry\'s biggest costs, record fuel prices have cut heavily into the bottom line.</p><p>The impact of shifting itineraries will certainly have implications beyond the bottom line of cruise operators, creating winners and losers in port towns all along the way.</p><p>When cruise ships pull into Maine\'s Bar Harbor, passengers spend an average of $105 each while ashore, according to a 2002 University of Maine study.</p><p>Explorer of the Seas can carry more than 3,000 passengers.</p><p>A ship even half that size could mean nearly $160,000 per visit. That means big money in Portland, which expects more than 30 visits next year from ships that can carry between 1,000 and 3,000 passengers.</p><p>While Portland stands to reap big rewards from the itinerary changes, port cities along Canada\'s Atlantic coast could be on the losing end.</p><p>Canada\'s Atlantic ports saw a 33 percent jump in cruise ship visits between 2000 and 2007, according to the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association.</p><p>&quot;It\'s disappointing to be losing a bit of business, but we realize that cruise lines have to make decisions based on best-business practices,&quot; said Betty MacMillan, vice chairwoman of Atlantic Canada Cruise Association and business development manager of the port of Saint John, New Brunswick.</p><p>Royal Caribbean International changed the fall itinerary for the Explorer of the Seas along its northern route next year, shortening the distance between ports. Rather than sail from New Jersey to Quebec City and back, the ship will add stops in New England and go no farther than Halifax, Nova Scotia.</p><p>Fuel consumption was the primary reason, said Vice President Diana Block.</p><p>&quot;You have to look at where the biggest benefit is financially with the least impact on the guests,&quot; she said.</p><p>Annual fuel bills for cruise lines can add up to hundreds of millions of dollars and their ships can gobble up tens of thousands of gallons of fuel on any given cruise. The price of intermediate fuel oil, which most cruise ships use, has risen in tandem with crude oil.</p><p>Many cruise lines have added fuel surcharges to passenger bills, but energy costs continue to cut into profits and squeeze margins.</p><p>Cruise lines have also begun using energy-efficient light bulbs and new window coatings that reflect the heat from the sun to keep rooms cooler. They\'ve also been using new hull paint that reduces a ship\'s drag in the water.</p><p>And increasingly, cruise lines are altering itineraries so ships can slow down and reduce their travel distances, said Lanie Fagan, spokeswoman for the Cruise Line International Association. Carnival Corp., Norwegian Cruise Line and others have said high fuel costs are a factor in new routes.</p><p>&quot;While it is paramount to offer a cruise itinerary that a guest wants to sail, the design and sequence of that itinerary can be evaluated to minimize the distance between ports of call and the speed necessary to accomplish that itinerary,&quot; Fagan said.</p><p>In many cases, passengers will barely notice the difference.</p><p>Besides changing port calls on some routes, Royal Caribbean is reviewing its departure and arrival. In some cases, ships are leaving port half an hour earlier at night or arriving half an hour later in the morning &mdash; allowing ships to travel at slower speeds between ports.</p><p>Cutting speed cuts costs. For example, going 23 knots will consume twice as much fuel as going 15 knots for the new Solstice class of ship being launched this year by Celebrity Cruises, said John Krousouloudis, senior vice president for marine operations.</p><p>Even as cruise lines watched fuel prices ratchet up costs, some port cities had already seen an opportunity.</p><p>In Maine, a consortium that promotes Portland as a cruise ship destination is using high fuel costs as part of its marketing strategy.</p><p>Last fall, Discover Portland &amp; Beyond Executive Director Sandra Needham met with half a dozen cruise ship companies in south Florida. She presented them with some mock itineraries for their ships detailing how much money they could save in fuel costs if they included Portland on certain routes.</p><p>Besides touting southern Maine\'s attractions, Needham wanted to show cruise line executives how having port calls relatively close together could save them money.</p><p>By stopping at ports that are relatively close together, the ships could cruise at speeds of 12 knots or so rather than higher fuel-guzzling speeds, she said. Her itineraries showed that a few tweaks here and there could save cruise lines between $40,000 and $100,000 a week in fuel alone &mdash; and that was ten months ago, when fuel prices were lower.</p><p>She thinks the high price of fuel is one reason cruise lines have committed to bringing large ships, those with over 1,000 passengers, to Portland 34 times next year, up from 24 stops this year.</p>','2013-01-15 07:29:35',519,2,1,NULL,NULL,521,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(838,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jay Clarke, Miami Herald','Cruise safety','cruise_ship_law_1_496631035.jpg','2008-09-08 01:11:00','<p>You\'re off on a long-dreamed-of vacation, a cruise to sunny Caribbean islands. You\'re on a big cruise liner with a couple thousand other passengers. There are doctors and nurses on board, locks on your stateroom door, lots of public spaces, and ship personnel at your beck and call. Safety isn\'t something to worry about.</p><p>Not so, says Miami maritime lawyer Charles R. Lipcon in a new book, <em>Unsafe on the High Seas</em>.</p><p>\'\'The problem is, people don\'t think anything bad can happen,\'\' Lipcon said in an interview. But as on any vacation, things can go wrong even on a cruise ship, he says, and passengers need to keep their guard up.</p><p>Most importantly, he says, don\'t leave your common sense behind.</p><p>\'\'Getting on a cruise ship is like traveling to a strange city. Take some precautions,\'\' Lipcon said. You wouldn\'t walk alone at night in a strange city; don\'t do it on a cruise ship. You wouldn\'t go to a stranger\'s room ashore; don\'t go to a crew member\'s room on board.</p><p>Those are some of the safety tips that Lipcon gives in his book.</p><p>\'\'That\'s the reason I wrote the book -- [to tell passengers] how to avoid problems,\'\' said the Miami attorney, who has filed many lawsuits on behalf of clients who experienced problems aboard ship.</p><p>\'\'When you get on a cruise ship, you\'re not in the United States any more,\'\' he warned. The laws of the ship\'s country of registry aren\'t the same as those in America, and you may not get the protections. Medical care is limited and may not be up to U.S. standards.</p><p>Passengers having too good a time at a ship bar also may be at risk, Lipcon writes. \'\'Fueled by firewater, people do crazy things.\'\' Young women in particular can fall prey to the date rape drug. His advice to them: Only drink beverages you have witnessed being prepared, and ask that bottled drinks come unopened. ``That\'s a must.\'\'</p><p>Stateroom safety is another area Lipcon touches on. \'\'Never open your door to strangers,\'\' he writes. All valuables should be locked in a safe and guard your key card, just as you would your credit card ashore.</p><p>That said, the vast majority of passengers never experience any problems aboard, except perhaps for spending more than they intended.</p><p>Cruise line representatives say crimes on board are extremely rare. Quoting from testimony at last year\'s Congressional hearings, Michael Crye, executive vice president of the Cruise Line Industry Association, said that of the 4.4 million passengers who sailed from April to Aug. 24 in 2007, only .01 percent were involved in reported incidents.</p><p>While Lipcon\'s recitation of what can happen aboard ship can sound intimidating, the attorney says the intent of his book is not to scare people away from taking a cruise, but to send them off with their eyes open.</p><p>\'\'Have fun, be cool, but be wary,\'\' he advises.</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:13',242,1,1,NULL,NULL,527,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Passengers should treat a cruise ship like they would a strange city and take common sense precautions.',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(839,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Pulse','NCL’s Norwegian Pearl Cancels Oct. 26 Sailing for Repairs','ncl_pearl_496259889.jpg','2008-09-08 01:17:00','<p>Norwegian Pearl&rsquo;s Oct. 26 seven-day Western Caribbean sailing has been canceled because the ship must enter dry-dock to repair a thrust bearing in the Azipod propulsion system, Norwegian Cruise Line said. During routine inspections, Norwegian Pearl&rsquo;s engineers identified localized wear in the thrust bearing. Therefore, Norwegian Pearl has been and will continue to travel at a reduced speed until it enters dry-dock. The Azipod issues do not impact the safe operation of the vessel. The following itineraries for Norwegian Pearl have been modified as a result of the reduced speed capabilities: On the seven-day Alaska sailings departing Sept. 1, Sept. 7 and Sept. 14, the ship&rsquo;s call in Victoria, B.C., has been shortened and guests cannot disembark. On the 19-day Sept. 21 Panama Canal cruise from Seattle to Miami, calls in San Francisco and Los Angeles have been canceled and a stop in Huatulco, Mexico, has been added. Timing of stops in Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Cartagena, Colombia, has been altered slightly.</p><p><br />As a result of this itinerary change, NCL is offering an onboard credit of $50 per person for a maximum of $100 per stateroom. On the Oct. 12 and Oct. 19 seven-day Western Caribbean cruises from Miami, the stop in Roatan, Honduras, is now from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. instead of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For guests booked on the Oct. 26 sailing, NCL is offering a full refund and a 25 percent future cruise credit based on the cruise fare paid on this sailing. The future cruise credit is valid on any NCL ship through Oct. 26, 2009. NCL is encouraging guests who booked their reservation with a travel agent to contact the agent directly to rebook the cruise. For guests who booked directly with NCL, the company has representatives available to assist at 866-234-5613 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday. All reservations for the Oct. 26 sailing will be automatically canceled and deposits will be refunded after Sept. 16. For more information, visit www.ncl.com. </p>','2013-01-09 09:11:23',470,1,1,NULL,NULL,525,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(840,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Regent Seven Seas','Regent Seven Seas Cruises Enhances Guest Experiences Ashore','GAU_LEtoile_low555_350287113.jpg','2008-09-09 23:09:00','<p><strong>Fort Lauderdale</strong> <strong>- September 8, 2008</strong> - In a constant effort to provide the very best experiences ashore as Luxury Goes Exploring&reg; around the globe, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers its discerning guests the expertise and unique perspective of acclaimed Destination Specialists.</p><p>&quot;We don\'t want to merely transport our guests to fascinating parts of the world,&quot; said Michael Day, senior director of Entertainment for RSSC. &quot;We want them to return home having gained a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the places they have visited with us. In addition to the comprehensive array of shore excursions and overland tours, we also offer the knowledge and experience of our uniquely qualified Destination Specialists,&quot; he added.</p><p><strong>Terry Breen</strong>, a cultural anthropologist by training, prefers the title of &quot;storyteller.&quot; Through a series of fascinating audio visual shows offered throughout her cruises, she truly brings the destinations to life. Terry is also a distinguished author both in print and online. Her areas of expertise for RSSC guests are Central and South America, Alaska and the Pacific.</p><p><strong>Sandra Bowern</strong> is a presenter, researcher, travel writer and fine arts graduate. She incorporates hundreds of visual images, music and film clips into each of her lively presentations to offer a comprehensive overview of the history, politics and culture of each destination. Sandra is the author of several travel books and is a regular contributor to several international magazines. Her current area of expertise for RSSC guests is Europe. </p><p><strong>John Tabbutt-McCarthy</strong> has been presenting travel and history lectures at sea - and ashore in museums - for the past sixteen years. A graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy at King\'s Point, New York where he studied Nautical Science and Ocean Liner History, John has lived all over the world. Fittingly, John will be sharing his wealth of knowledge aboard <em>Seven Seas Voyager\'s</em> World Cruise in 2009.</p><p><strong>Captain Ira Feldman</strong> is uniquely qualified in the field of marine navigation. In addition to being a licensed Captain with the US Merchant Marine Service for the past 20 years, Captain Feldman has also taught Navigation and Seamanship with the US Coast Guard and US Navy, and is currently a Clinical Professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. His lectures on marine navigation add a fascinating dimension to the enrichment program of any RSSC cruise.</p><p align=\"center\"><strong>Regent-provided headsets prove popular</strong></p><p>Regent Seven Seas Cruises also announced that the personal wireless headsets that have been offered on select tours from RSSC ships since June have been a huge success. The headsets, included in the cost of the tours and provided on board, allow guests to clearly follow the commentary of the knowledgeable local tour guide, while still allowing for an appreciation of the ambient sounds of the site being visited. Sample tours where the headsets are offered include a Vatican City and Rome Orientation, a Cape Town and Table Mountain tour, a tour of Rio de Janeiro and its Favelas; and a Sydney Harbour Cruise. Guest approval of the headsets has been so positive that they will soon be offered fleet-wide on over two hundred tours around the world.</p><p><strong>About Regent Seven Seas Cruises - </strong>Regent Seven Seas, a Prestige Cruise Holdings company, 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 &quot;World\'s Best Luxury Cruise Line&quot; for the fourth consecutive year as part of the 2007 <em>Travel Weekly</em> Awards and readers of <em>Cond&eacute;</em><em> Nast Traveler</em> magazine voted RSSC &quot;World\'s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line&quot; 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.</p><p><strong>About Prestige Cruise Holdings - </strong>Prestige Cruise Holdings (PCH) is a subsidiary of Apollo Management L.P. and the parent corporation of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises. Formed in 2007 to manage select assets in Apollo Management\'s cruise investment portfolio, PCH is led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Del Rio, the founder of Oceania Cruises. PCH is the market leader in the Upper Premium and Luxury segments of the cruise industry with more than 4,450 berths between the Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises brands, a number the company expects will grow to more than 6,700 berths by 2011.</p>','2013-01-23 13:06:38',305,1,1,NULL,NULL,529,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(841,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Donna Balancia, Florida Today','New casino ship at Port; cruises start soon','bilde_341003030.jpg','2008-09-09 23:35:00','<p>Las Vegas Casino Lines\' cruise ship Liquid Vegas has pulled into its dock at Cruise Terminal 4 in Port Canaveral as the company prepares to start its gambling cruises by the end of the month.</p><p><br />&quot;We have some training to do with our employees, but we expect to be up and running within a few weeks,&quot; said Larry Mullin, president and chief executive officer of Las Vegas Casino Lines.</p><p>Mullin said the company has to be in strict compliance with security, Coast Guard and casino regulations. As soon as every department gets approval by various government entities, the ship will make its long-awaited -- and several times delayed -- maiden gambling voyage.</p><p>The 300-foot-long Liquid Vegas will hold 800 passengers and 100 crew members. It will run two three-hour cruises daily out of Port Canaveral and also offer late-night and overnight cruises on the weekends.</p><p>Las Vegas Casino Lines plans to hire about 225 people from the more than 1,200 resumes and applications it received. Administrators hope to have a pool of resumes on hand and want to interview more workers than they will initially hire, so the company could hire for future needs.</p><p>&quot;We\'re always looking for good people,&quot; Mullin said. &quot;We have a range of departments and we need qualified people across the board.&quot;</p><p>Employees will include marine and engine crew, security, a marketing department, and employees in food and beverage, casino and administrative positions, company spokesman Tom Palermo said.</p><p>Mullin will do the training on rules and regulations but hopes to hire experienced employees for the casino.</p><p>There are 22 gaming tables in the ship\'s casino offering a range of games, including a game new to the U.S., Dragon Tooth Pi Gao poker. The casino will also have slots, Baccarat, Keno, race and sports book, roulette and craps.</p><p>The ship\'s music will be Las Vegas-style entertainment, featuring horns and brass, Mullin said.</p>','2013-01-23 21:29:37',487,1,1,NULL,NULL,530,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,'Giles Malone waves to the Liquid Vegas Las Vegas Casino cruise line as it comes in to Port Canaveral for the first time Sunday afternoon.   (Amanda Stratford, FLORIDA TODAY)',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(842,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Industry News','Disney Magic to Add Radio Frequency IDs for Kids’ Areas','123_762451613.jpg','2008-09-09 23:37:00','The Disney Magic will revamp the check in area for kids&rsquo; areas during the ship&rsquo;s nearly three-week drydock that started Saturday, easing the change to the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers scheduled to debut on the ship later in the year, according to the Disney Cruise Line Website.<br /><br />The RFID technology is aimed at streamlining the check-in process for youth activity areas. The technology uses RFID tags embedded on wristbands, allowing children to simply tap a sensor to check in and out of the Oceaneer Club, a play space for 3- to 7-year-olds, and the Oceaneer Lab, an interactive laboratory for 8- to 12-year-olds.<br /><br />The Magic will also upgrade its kids&rsquo; pool area, adding the &ldquo;Mickey&rsquo;s Splash Zone,&rdquo; a new toddler water playground inspired by Fantasia&rsquo;s Sorcerer&rsquo;s Apprentice. The 385-square-foot extension to the Mickey Pool on deck 9 will feature star- and moon-shaped interactive fountains, a soft play surface and whimsical splash zones; creating an inviting environment for children not yet toilet trained and in swim diapers.<br /><br />The adults&rsquo; pool will be outfitted with cascading waterfalls from the two hot tubs.<br /><br />Twenty-two inch flat-screen LCD television sets are planned for the ship&rsquo;s staterooms. The TVs will be mounted on swivel arms, allowing easy viewing from multiple locations within the stateroom.','2013-01-18 23:07:17',229,1,1,NULL,NULL,531,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(843,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Industry News','Residensea Explores New Regions, More Excursions in 09','123_687947919.jpg','2008-09-09 23:39:00','Residensea&rsquo;s The World will expand its itinerary offerings in 2009, making a maiden call in Papua New Guinea during the winter, and sailing the Bering Sea for the first time in the summer. <br /><br />The World, the only private residential community at sea, will also expand on its shore excursions, said Nikki Upshaw, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Residensea. &ldquo;The goal is to have more expeditions in exotic destinations, contributing to an immersive travel experience,&rdquo; Upshaw said. Many excursions will be walking tours involving as many as 10 experts, she added.<br /><br />In recent years, several companies have also been trying to build ships with residential properties onboard, but none have gotten off the drawing board.<br /><br />&ldquo;With no shipyard slots awarded yet, the soonest someone would enter this market would be 2011,&rdquo; Upshaw said, &ldquo;as it would take at least two years to build. But competition is good; it keeps you on your toes.&rdquo;','2013-01-19 23:57:37',187,1,1,NULL,NULL,532,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(844,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','TravelPulse.com','Ike Damages Grand Turk, Forces Cruise Itinerary Changes','2277315688_6004bc39fd_715869724.jpg','2008-09-09 23:43:00','<p>Grand Turk, home to a Carnival Corp.-built cruise port, appears to have sustained &ldquo;substantial&rdquo; damage from Hurricane Ike, which also forced itinerary changes for a number of cruise ships. &ldquo;It appears it is going to take some time for Grand Turk to recover,&rdquo; Carnival said. &ldquo;As a result, we are not able to provide an estimate for re-opening of the Grand Turk cruise facility at this time. Once overall reconstruction on the island gets underway, we can better evaluate the situation. We will pass along any additional details that may become available in the coming days specifically regarding the status of the Grand Turk Cruise Center.&rdquo;</p><p><br />Meanwhile, Carnival Cruise Lines amended itineraries for a number of ships in the Caribbean due to the hurricane. Carnival Liberty&rsquo;s Sept. 6 cruise from Miami will replace the scheduled Eastern Caribbean itinerary with visits to Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Belize and Isla Roatan, Honduras. Carnival Miracle&rsquo;s Sept. 6 cruise from New York will replace the scheduled call in Grand Turk with a visit to Tortola on Thursday. Carnival Fascination&rsquo;s Sept. 8 departure from Miami will visit Nassau on Wednesday and Freeport on Thursday. Carnival Imagination&rsquo;s Sept. 8 cruise from Miami will replace the scheduled call in Grand Turk with a visit to Freeport on Wednesday. Carnival Inspiration&rsquo;s Sept. 8 cruise from Tampa will visit Progreso on Wednesday and Cozumel on Thursday. And Holiday&rsquo;s Sept. 8 cruise from Mobile will visit Progreso on Wednesday and Cozumel on Thursday.</p><p><br />Royal Caribbean International altered the itineraries of six ships. Sovereign of the Seas, which departed Port Canaveral Sept. 8, is changing the order of its normal ports of call. The ship will be at sea Tuesday and visit Nassau on Wednesday and CocoCay, Bahamas, on Thursday. Liberty of the Seas, which departed the Port of Miami on Sept. 6, changed the order of its normal ports of call. The ship will visit Grand Cayman on Tuesday, Ocho Rios on Wednesday and Labadee on Thursday. Freedom of the Seas, which departed Miami on Sept. 7, will not visit San Juan on Tuesday. Instead, the ship will be at sea Tuesday and will visit St. Thomas on Wednesday, St. Maarten on Thursday and be at sea Friday and Saturday.</p><p><br />Enchantment of the Seas, which departed Port Everglades on Sept. 6, will not visit Grand Cayman on Tuesday but will be at sea Tuesday and Wednesday. Mariner of the Seas, which departed Port Canaveral on Sept. 6, will not visit Ocho Rios on Wednesday. Instead, the ship will visit Labadee, on Tuesday, Montego Bay on Wednesday, Grand Cayman on Thursday, Cozumel on Friday and will be at sea Saturday. Grandeur of the Seas, which departed Norfolk, Va., on Sept. 4, also changed the order of port calls. It visited Halifax on Sunday and St. John on Monday. It will remain at sea Tuesday, visit Boston on Wednesday and will return to Norfolk on Sept. 12, as scheduled. For more information, visit www.carnival.com or www.royalcaribbean.com.</p>','2013-01-09 11:10:18',250,1,1,NULL,NULL,533,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(845,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Ben Fox, Associated Press Writer','Hurricane Ike knocks out some Caribbean tourism','123_820278900.jpg','2008-09-09 23:45:00','<p>GRAND TURK, Turks and Caicos Islands (AP) -- The tourism industry, crucial to the Caribbean island of Grand Turk, was out of commission Monday and likely to remain that way for weeks or even months.</p><p><br />Hurricane Ike destroyed homes, scattered power lines, uprooted trees and tossed cars and small trucks around like toys on the low-lying island. Nearly every building, including the airport control tower and pastel-colored colonial buildings, sustained some damage in the Category 4 hurricane.<br />&quot;I\'ve been living in the Caribbean for 25 years and I\'ve never seen this kind of destruction,&quot; said Giora Israel, senior vice president of strategic planning for Carnival Corp., which owns the island\'s cruise ship pier and terminal.</p><p>Rain and wind caused an estimated $5 million to $10 million in damage to the terminal and its grounds -- ripping out some 500 palm trees planted just six months ago, Israel said. The pier itself, built to withstand a Category 5 storm, was unscathed.</p><p>Michael Sheehan, spokesman for Royal Caribbean Ltd., which doesn\'t not sail to Grand Turk, said about six of its ships have been redirected because of Hurricane Ike.</p><p>Grand Turk is the capital of the island chain and many people there work for the government. There are a half-dozen hotels but the cruise ship industry, both directly and indirectly, is the largest private sector employer.</p><p>The situation was better elsewhere in the chain. There was no major damage to the hotels and resorts of Providenciales, which receives the most visitors in the chain, and the airport was expected to reopen Monday afternoon. There also were no reports of major damage on Parrot Cay, where celebrities such as Bruce Willis own homes.</p><p>&quot;The tourism sector is open for business,&quot; Premier Michael Misick said of Providenciales, where most hotels were built within the last 20 years. &quot;It speaks to the level of quality of construction here that we can withstand a Category 4 storm without any major damage.&quot;</p>','2013-01-19 23:47:34',255,1,1,NULL,NULL,534,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Caribbean tourist destination hit hard by &#039;Ike,&#039; cruise terminal knocked out ',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(846,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','A Carnival Dream Coming True','123_982898436.jpg','2008-09-09 23:51:00','<p><font size=\"2\">Currently under construction at Fincantieri&rsquo;s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the Carnival Dream continues to move along as scheduled. Most recently, workers began piecing together the ship&rsquo;s more than 1,800 staterooms. </font></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">In addition to a wide variety of accommodation categories, the 3,646-passenger vessel, set to debut September 21, 2009, will include a number of new 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. </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\">Following its European debut, Carnival Dream will offer two voyages from New York then reposition to Port Canaveral, Fla., for year-round seven-day Caribbean cruises beginning Dec. 5, 2009.</font></span></span></p>','2013-01-18 00:37:07',380,1,1,NULL,NULL,535,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(847,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Costa Cruises','THE NEW PORT OF ST. PETERSBURG IS INAUGURATED BY COSTA CRUISES','2675747642_843ae7af2b_572700531.jpg','2008-09-12 03:24:00','The Costa Mediterranea is the first ship to call at the new passenger port in the Russian city. The event has been celebrated with a performance by the Catalan theatre group &lsquo;Fura del Baus&rsquo;<br /><br />The Italian company is the leading cruise line in St. Petersburg with 50,000 cruise passengers and direct expenditure of &euro;8 million in 2008. According to a study carried out this year, there are some 4,750,000 potential Russian cruisers (comprising 74% of the potential customer base) who would choose a Costa cruise<br /><br />The Italian company Costa Cruises, Europe&rsquo;s number one cruise line, has taken part today in the inauguration of the new passenger port in St. Petersburg, Russia. The Costa Mediterranea (85,600 gross tonnage and total guest capacity of 2,680), one of the 12 cruise ships in the Costa fleet, was the star of the event as the first ship to call at the new port built especially to accommodate cruise ships and cruise passengers. The port was built with mixed public and private investment, worth a total of US$13 billion. The first person to disembark from the Costa Mediterranea, Captain Anelito Montesarchio, was welcomed by the Governor of St. Petersburg, Valentina Matvienko. <br /><br />The opening of the new port was celebrated with a performance by the Catalan theatre group &lsquo;Fura del Baus&rsquo;. In addition to the local Governor, the inauguration of the new facility was attended by Alexander Davydenko, Deputy Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation, Mario Martini, Costa Cruises S.V.P. Sales &amp; Marketing Europe and Rest of the World and Shavkat Kary-Niyazov, President of &lsquo;Marine Fa&ccedil;ade&rsquo;, the company that managed the construction of the port.<br /><br />The new passenger port in St. Petersburg is the first in Russia able to accommodate the latest generation of cruise ships, whose length exceeds 300 metres. Situated on the western side of Vasiljevskiy Island, it is near the old town and a convenient gateway to the main attractions of the city. The project will occupy a total area of 400 hectares and entails several stages of development, with the work scheduled for completion by 2010. Upon its completion, the new passenger port of St. Petersburg will become the largest cruise and ferry industry project in the world. By the time it is finished the port will have seven berths, three cruise terminals and one ferry terminal. The new port\'s capacity will be 12,000 passengers a day and 1.2 million passengers a year. For the time being, one cruise terminal and two 300-metre berths are operating. The project will also incorporate business centres, exhibition halls, an &lsquo;A&rsquo; class residential development and other facilities that will change the view of the St. Petersburg\'s waterfront dramatically. St. Petersburg is Russia&rsquo;s busiest cruise port and one of the main cruise destinations in Northern Europe. The number of cruisers has increased from 163,000 in 2003 to an estimated 400,000 in 2008. The first foreign civilian ship, a Dutch ship, arrived in St. Petersburg 305 years ago, in the autumn of 1703. By receiving the first foreign vessel, St. Petersburg was fulfilling the mission defined by its founder, Emperor Peter the Great, &lsquo;to open the sea gates to Europe&rsquo;.<br /><br />&ldquo;Being able to inaugurate the new passenger port of St. Petersburg with one of the ships in our fleet is a great honour and a great opportunity for us,&rdquo; said Costa Cruises S.V.P. Sales &amp; Marketing Europe and Rest of the World, Mario Martini. &ldquo;This new port facility is vitally important to the future development of cruise shipping in Russia, and is clear testimony to the attention being paid to the cruise industry by the Government of the Russian Federation and the local authorities in St. Petersburg. For our part, in our capacity as the number one operator in the port we will continue to invest so as to promote Costa&rsquo;s cruises in Russia. The popularity that our product is currently enjoying here is very encouraging, especially considering the huge potential for growth in this country. We&rsquo;re sure that Russia will be able to play an increasingly significant role in Costa Cruises&rsquo; expansion programme in the years to come and will make an important contribution to the attainment of our objective of 1.5 million guests in 2010.&rdquo;<br /><br />Costa&rsquo;s ships first sailed to St. Petersburg back in the early 1970s, with the North Sea cruises on the &lsquo;Federico C&rsquo; and on Costa&rsquo;s historic flagship &lsquo;Eugenio C&rsquo;. Today, Costa Cruises is the leading cruise line for the Russian port, in terms of both the number of ship calls and the number of cruise passengers. This year Costa&rsquo;s ships will make a total of 28 calls in St. Petersburg bringing about 50,000 cruisers, accounting for around 12% of the port&rsquo;s total cruise passenger traffic. Direct expenditure by the company in St. Petersburg in 2008 amounts to some &euro;8 million. There are four Costa vessels deployed here in 2008: the Costa Mediterranea, Costa Atlantica, Costa Victoria and Costa Marina. In 2009 the Italian company will gain extra strength with the addition of the Costa Luminosa, the finest and most exclusive ship in the Costa fleet, due to enter service in May 2009. There will be four Costa ships calling at St. Petersburg next year: the Costa Luminosa plus the Costa Mediterranea, Costa Atlantica and Costa Magica. The Costa Luminosa, Costa Mediterranea and Costa Magica will offer new, exclusive itineraries to the Baltic cities, including an overnight stay in St. Petersburg.<br /><br />Costa Cruises has been marketing cruises in Russia since 2003, through two of the main local tour operators, Natalie Tours and the Neptune Cruise Center. Over the last five years the number of Russian guests choosing a cruise holiday on board one of the 12 Costa fleet members has increased almost fourfold. Also, since 2007 Costa Cruises has given its Russian guests the option of embarking and disembarking in the port of St. Petersburg on summer cruises in the Baltic Sea and to the Norwegian fjords. In addition to Northern Europe, the preferred destinations of Russian guests are the winter cruises in the Mediterranean and to the Canary Islands, the summer cruises in the Western Mediterranean, and the winter cruises in the Arabian Gulf with a departure from Dubai.<br /><br />There is a very substantial margin for the growth of cruising in Russia. According to a study conducted in February 2008 by Costa Cruises and Romir, Russia&rsquo;s leading independent research institute, there are a potential 4,750,000 Russian cruisers. The survey also showed that Costa&rsquo;s offer is in line with the demands of the market and that, thanks to the quality of its product and the reliability of its brand, Costa would be able to attract 74% of the potential customer base identified. The European Cruise Council (ECC), the international association set up to promote the development of the European cruise industry, reported that in 2006 the cruise industry generated direct expenditure in Europe amounting to some &euro;10.6 billion. 3.4 million Europeans went on cruise holidays that year, and this figure is expected to reach 4.1 million by 2010 and 5.5 million by 2015. ','2013-01-19 23:51:14',178,1,1,NULL,NULL,536,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(848,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Names 2010 Signature Class Ship ms Nieuw Amsterdam','123_459373990.jpg','2008-09-12 03:26:00','<p>SEATTLE, Sept. 10 &mdash; Holland America Line will name its latest Signature Class ship and the 15th in its fleet, ms Nieuw Amsterdam. To be delivered in 2010, the 86,000-ton Nieuw Amsterdam will be built at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri&rsquo;s Marghera shipyard and its interior design and art collection will reflect the glamour and history of New York City, formerly called Nieuw Amsterdam.</p><p>&ldquo;The Signature Class marks Holland America Line&rsquo;s latest series of new-build vessels and with a guest capacity of 2,106 for Nieuw Amsterdam, it reaffirms our commitment to the mid-sized cruise ship market,&rdquo; said Stein Kruse, president and CEO, Holland America Line. &ldquo;This name has a rich heritage in our company with this ship being our fourth in 135 years. We are proud to extend this illustrious ship name to our current fleet.&rdquo;</p><p>The first Nieuw Amsterdam was launched in 1906 and used both a full set of sails and steam engines. She was 17,149 tons and carried 2,886 passengers, 2,200 of them in third class. She sailed in regular service through World War I and then through to 1932.</p><p>The famed Nieuw Amsterdam II joined the fleet in 1938 as the company&rsquo;s flagship. The silhouette of this ship can still be seen today behind Henry Hudson&rsquo;s Half Moon in the company&rsquo;s logo. At 36,287 tons, &ldquo;the Darling of the Dutch,&rdquo; as she was known, was decorated in great style and was launched by Her Majesty Queen Wilhemina of the Netherlands. Nieuw Amsterdam II served proudly in World War II completing 44 war time voyages carrying nearly 400,000 passengers (mostly troops). Following the war, she was rebuilt and, as the queen of Holland America Line&rsquo;s &ldquo;spotless fleet,&rdquo; hosted countless well-known figures among her guests, including Katherine Hepburn, Rita Hayworth, Spencer Tracey and Albert Schweitzer.</p><p>Nieuw Amsterdam III was launched in 1983 as one of the most elegant ships of her time. At 33,900 tons, Nieuw Amsterdam III sailed in Alaska in the summers and in the Caribbean in the winters.</p><p>&ldquo;With innovative design and guest offerings, Nieuw Amsterdam IV will continue the proud tradition of her name and continue to evolve of Holland America Line&rsquo;s sophisticated mid-sized ships and further our premium leadership position,&rdquo; said Kruse.</p><p>Previous new-build series include the four-ship Statendam Class group, four-ship Rotterdam Class and four-ship Vista Class. The line also owns and operates the 793-passenger Elegant Explorer, ms Prinsendam. The first Signature Class vessel, ms Eurodam, joined the fleet in July 2008.</p><p>Eurodam, and now Nieuw Amsterdam, further define and expand the Holland America Line premium brand with new concepts such as the innovative pan-Asian Tamarind restaurant and Silk Den lounge surrounded by panoramic views overlooking the ocean expanse and the Lido pool. Other additions are an Explorer&rsquo;s Lounge Bar, a premium wine-tasting lounge, an elegant luxury jewelry boutique, new atrium bar area, enhanced and reconfigured show lounge, and a new photographic and imaging center.</p><p>Nieuw Amsterdam will feature 11 guest decks and staterooms will spotlight all the Signature of Excellence premium amenities of plush Euro-top Mariner&rsquo;s Dream Beds, deluxe waffle/terry cloth robes, Egyptian cotton towels, flat panel TVs, dvd players, make-up mirrors with halo lighting, massage shower heads, professional grade hair dryers, fresh flowers and complimentary fruit baskets. The ship will also feature innovative spa staterooms with additional spa amenities.</p><p>The ship will continue several much-admired Holland America Line features, including outside-view, glass elevators at midship; the Explorations Cafe, a cyber-coffee house powered by The New York Times; the Pinnacle Grill and Pinnacle Bar; the innovative Culinary Arts Center presented by Food &amp; Wine Magazine, where culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and intimate classes in a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchens; an expanded Greenhouse Spa and Salon with thermal suites and hydro-pool, the largest gymnasium ever built for Holland America Line; and a youth facility that includes the teens-only Loft. In addition the ship will feature the family-style Canaletto&rsquo;s Italian restaurant. On the technical side, Signature Class ships will feature the latest state-of-the-art navigation and safety systems including dynamic positioning abilities to hold the ship in a precise position. The vessels will be powered by six diesel generators and propelled by the latest Azipod propulsion technology.</p><p>&ldquo;This new class of ships demonstrates the strength of our brand, the loyalty of our guests and the dedication of our more than 16,000 employees worldwide,&rdquo; said Kruse. &ldquo;The added capacity will provide greater opportunities for our guests and employees alike.&rdquo;</p>','2013-01-19 23:59:21',198,1,1,NULL,NULL,537,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(849,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Mascot Celebrates Sixth Birthday','123_302579397.jpg','2008-09-12 03:30:00','<p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">The sixth birthday of &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; Freddy &ndash; Carnival&rsquo;s fun-loving mascot with a funnel-shaped head &ndash; was celebrated throughout the fleet in grand style.<span></span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Kids from &ldquo;Camp Carnival&rdquo; and the youth counselors went all out to make sure that Freddy&rsquo;s birthday was a memorable, creating colorful birthday cards and banners and enjoying custom-designed birthday cakes created by the food and beverage staff.<span>&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Freddy was obviously impressed with the festivities as he couldn&rsquo;t quit smiling and had a perpetual grin throughout each and every celebration. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Featured on all 22 Carnival ships, &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; Freddy is roughly six feet tall and is normally decked out in his customary cruise staff uniform, with oversized white gloves and sneakers, and, of course, the requisite Carnival ID badge. &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; Freddy also has a tux for formal night.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">In addition to greeting visitors and interacting with visitors aboard ship, &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; Freddy poses for photos throughout each voyage and is often found in the children&rsquo;s play areas, the focal point of many &ldquo;Camp Carnival&rdquo; activities.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Those hired to portray &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; Freddy must undergo an intensive shoreside training session followed by a four-day &ldquo;test run&rdquo; in full costume aboard ship before being hired.</span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:58:19',293,1,1,NULL,NULL,538,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(850,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Grand Turk Cruise Center Scheduled To Re-Open In Early October','123_113188081.jpg','2008-09-12 03:32:00','<p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">The Grand Turk Cruise Center, which is operated by Miami-based Carnival Corporation &amp; plc, and located on the island of Grand Turk, has scheduled an Oct. 8, 2008 re-opening date, following the passage of Hurricane Ike.</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"><span>&nbsp;</span>An engineering survey has confirmed that no damage was sustained to the cruise ship pier, which can accommodate up to two ships at one time. Minimal damage occurred to the facility&rsquo;s retail and restaurant complex.</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; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">&ldquo;We believe we can complete repairs to the cruise center within a 30-day period and bring cruise ships back to Grand Turk,&rdquo; said Giora Israel, Carnival&rsquo;s vice president of strategic planning and port development. &ldquo;We will be able to provide many of the wonderful, beach, snorkeling and watersports experiences that Grand Turk is famous for, along with the oversized pool and food and shopping opportunities at the cruise center, including the extremely popular Margaritaville restaurant.&rdquo;</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">Israel added that returning cruise ships quickly will provide important economic benefits to Grand Turk while the island moves forward with its recovery efforts. In addition to its existing staff on the island, Carnival Corp. &amp; plc will bring in a number of additional skilled workers who will be housed and fed by the company.<span>&nbsp; </span>Those individuals will not only repair the cruise center complex, but also assist in the repair of some of the island&rsquo;s key attractions. </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; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">&ldquo;We will be investing millions of dollars in the coming months to help Grand Turk quickly re-build its cruise-focused tourism. Bringing tourists back to the island as quickly as possible will play a major role in driving the island&rsquo;s overall recovery,&rdquo; said Israel.</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">The Grand Turk Cruise Center is the largest private employer on the island and the cruise center staff, combined with shore excursion operators, comprises approximately 80 percent of non-government jobs in Grand Turk.</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; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">Carnival Corporation &amp; plc will also be providing financial and logistical assistance to shore excursion operators to enable them to resume their businesses. Cruise passengers and crew members will be provided the opportunity to participate in volunteer-oriented excursions for those who wish to assist in the island&rsquo;s recovery effort.</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">The Grand Turk Cruise Center, which opened in 2006, has become one of the cruise industry&rsquo;s most popular Caribbean cruise destinations.<span>&nbsp; </span>The $60 million, 13-acre complex features an 800-foot-long private beach, swimming pool and FlowRider attraction, which offers body boarding and stand-up board surfing, in addition to multiple retail outlets.<span>&nbsp; </span><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>The FlowRider, which was not damaged, will re-open pending the status of power supply on the island.<span>&nbsp; </span>The cruise center&rsquo;s lush landscaping, much of which was lost as a result of the storm, will be replaced on a gradual basis over the next several months.</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\">The Grand Turk Cruise Center serves as a gateway to the pristine island of Grand Turk, which is world-renowned as a diving and snorkeling jewel, and also features magnificent beaches, striking aqua-blue waters, and a variety of fishing and watersports activities.</font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"></font></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: small\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><font size=\"2\"><span>&nbsp;</span>The first cruise ship scheduled to call at Grand Turk will be Carnival Cruise Lines&rsquo; Carnival Destiny on Oct. 8.<span>&nbsp; </span>Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest cruise-line user of the Grand Turk facility.<span>&nbsp; </span>Several other cruise lines, both from within the Carnival Corp. &amp; plc family of brands and from other cruise operators, also regularly call at Grand Turk.</font></span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:54:08',393,1,1,NULL,NULL,539,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(851,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Princess Cruises','USA Today and Princess Cruises Announce “Romance on the Ruby” Cruise Contest','new_ships_09_g_759023221.jpg','2008-09-15 22:04:00','<p>McLean, VA, September 12, 2008 &mdash; USA TODAY and Princess Cruises today announced a &ldquo;Romance on the Ruby&rdquo; contest that will allow 10 lucky couples the chance to attend the naming festivities for Princess Cruises&rsquo; newest ship, Ruby Princess, November 6-8, 2008, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.</p><p>For the launch of Ruby Princess, Princess Cruises is celebrating romantic moments and milestones. In honor, celebrity couple Trista and Ryan Sutter will christen the ship. The Sutters, who met on ABC&rsquo;s hit reality series, The Bachelorette, will celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this fall, and will mark this milestone event during the Ruby Princess inaugural.</p><p>USA TODAY and Princess Cruises want to give 10 deserving couples the chance to join the Sutters onboard the ship to celebrate their own romantic milestone event. To enter, couples must submit a 250-word essay by October 3 on what their romantic milestone is and why they deserve a getaway to celebrate. Princess Cruises&rsquo; Department of Romance members will judge the entries and choose 10 finalists who will receive an all-expense-paid trip with their significant other to the inaugural and two-night sailing on the Ruby Princess. Finalists will be announced on October 17 at romanceontheruby.usatoday.com as well as USA TODAY&rsquo;s online site devoted to cruising,The Cruise Log (cruises.usatoday.com). Trista and Ryan Sutter will then select a grand prize winner out of the 10 finalists who will be named on October 24. The winner and their significant other will win a seven-day sailing on the new Ruby Princess plus coach <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">airfare</span></font>. For full official rules and to submit your essay, visit romanceontheruby.usatoday.com.</p><p>Launched in January 2008, USA TODAY&rsquo;s Cruise Log is one of the premier online homes for people who like to cruise &mdash; a place where both avid and first-time cruisers can get together to talk about lines, ships and ports; ask questions; post photos; read the latest cruise news; research trips and make bookings. The Cruise Log is run by veteran cruise writer and editor Gene Sloan at cruises.usatoday.com.</p><p>During Ruby Princess&rsquo; inaugural season she will make seven-day weekly sailings from Fort Lauderdale, FL to the Western Caribbean. Calls include Ocho Rios, Jamaica; <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Grand </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Cayman</span></font>, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico and Princess Cays in the Bahamas. Next spring the ship will move to Europe for 12-day sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands.</p><p>Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">travel </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">agent</span></font>, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company&rsquo;s website at www.princess.com.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:20',332,1,1,NULL,NULL,540,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(852,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','The Carnival Liberty’s Captain And Crew Earn Award from U.S. Coast Guard','123_312889098.jpg','2008-09-15 22:06:00','<p><font size=\"3\"><font face=\"Times New Roman\">At a reception Saturday aboard the Carnival Liberty in Miami, Captain Marco Nogara and the vessel&rsquo;s crew were presented with the U.S. Coast Guard&rsquo;s Meritorious Public Service Award by Rear Admiral Steve Branham for rescuing 44 Haitian migrants from a boat that was sinking off the coast of Cuba on Aug. 22.</font></font></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">The award recognized the Carnival Liberty&rsquo;s officers, staff and crew for not only rescuing the migrants but also for their humanitarian efforts in providing food, water and medical care to the individuals, who were adrift at sea for 15 days.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"><span></span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">In addition to the search and rescue efforts, the Carnival Liberty conducted an assessment of the Haitian vessel that resulted in the seizure of more than 25 pounds of marijuana which was turned over to law enforcement officials</span></span></p>','2013-01-21 00:13:59',486,1,1,NULL,NULL,541,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(853,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Holland America Line Introduces New Martini Menu','123_646897076.jpg','2008-09-15 22:15:00','<p>SEATTLE, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line has introduced a new menu of martini cocktails on board its fleet of 14 ships. Featured on the menu are 19 Grey Goose martinis and a sampler platter of mini, specialty martinis called the martini flight. Showcasing mixology at its best, a new martini flight will feature six of the menus premier martinis.<br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br />The martini flight includes Holland America Line\'s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice. Other martinis included in the flight are the Peartini, Cosmopolitan, Sunshine Martini, Rum Sundae and High Tide Martini. A house specialty will be a signature Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes. Holland America Line\'s new martini menu will be featured in the Explorer\'s Bar on its newest ship, ms Eurodam, in the Pinnacle Grill Bar of its Vista-class ships and in the Ocean Bar on ms Amsterdam, ms Maasdam, ms Rotterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Statendam, ms Veendam, ms Volendam and ms Zaandam.</p><p>&quot;We are constantly exploring new and inventive ways to enhance our onboard offerings be that entertainment, culinary or with innovative cocktails,&quot; said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &quot;The martini menu offers a wide variety of imaginative, sophisticated cocktails that will appeal to our guests.&quot;</p><p>Launched as a precursor to the highly anticipated Martinis that will be a part of the upcoming Mix specialty theme bar area, Holland America Line\'s new martini menu was inspired to infuse a new splash of sophistication to its already popular bars and lounges. Mix incorporates three specialty theme bars -- Martinis, Champagne, and Spirits &amp; Ales. These enhancements are part of a new $200-million Signature of Excellence upgrade to ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam.</p><p>For new Signature of Excellence upgrades, the first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:36',280,1,1,NULL,NULL,542,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(854,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Celebrity Cruises','“Turf&#039;s Up!” The Grass Really is Greener on Celebrity Solstice!','610x_927345690.jpg','2008-09-15 13:19:00','<p><font color=\"#000000\">Miami - (January 19, 2008 ) - There is a new job opening at <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Celebrity </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Cruises</span></font>: 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.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">When Celebrity Solstice launches in December, vacationers will find that the grass really is greener on a Celebrity Cruises <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">vacation</span></font>. 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 &ldquo;The Lawn Club.&rdquo;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">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.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;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,&rdquo; said Dan Hanrahan, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. &ldquo;The experiences on and around the lawn exemplify what we aim to achieve: to recognize, celebrate and indulge our guests in style.&rdquo;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;Everything about the Celebrity Cruises brand is authentic,&rdquo; said Richard D. Fain, Chairman of Celebrity Cruises. &ldquo;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.&rdquo;</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">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.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Metric Facts about The Lawn Club on Celebrity Solstice</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">At 2,130 square meters (22,927 square feet), The Lawn Club is just over a half-acre in size. </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">The Lawn Club is:</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">Over three times larger than New York&acirc;&euro;&trade;s <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Rockefeller </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Center</span></font> ice skating rink (668 sq. meters) </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">1.7 times larger than an Olympic-size swimming pool, which is 1,250 sq. meters </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">The equivalent of 8.2 tennis courts (these are 260 sq. meters each) </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">2.4 times the size of Centre Court at England&acirc;&euro;&trade;s Wimbledon Lawn &amp; Tennis Club, which is 902 sq. meters </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">One-third the size of a regulation soccer field, which is 6,500 sq. meters </font></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">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&acirc;&euro;&trade;s coffee cart service.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The Hot Glass Show, presented in collaboration with The Corning Museum of Glass, is the patio&acirc;&euro;&trade;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 &ldquo;gaffers&rdquo; &acirc;&euro;&ldquo; highly skilled glassblowing artists &acirc;&euro;&ldquo; will educate and entertain cruisers with live glassmaking shows, lectures and workshops.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The area also features the Sunset Bar &acirc;&euro;&ldquo; the ideal sailaway setting on any ship, enhanced on Celebrity Solstice by the natural grass in The Lawn Club. Located at Celebrity Solstice&rsquo;s highest point aft, the Sunset Bar provides breathtaking views in a relaxed atmosphere. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re confident our guests will be thrilled with The Lawn Club and the many new entertainment and sports options it offers,&rdquo; Hanrahan said.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">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/<font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">New </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">England</span></font>, 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 &ldquo;The World&rsquo;s Best Large Ships,&rdquo; as voted by the readers of Conde&rsquo; Nast Traveler (February 2007 Cruise 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. For more information, call your <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">travel </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">agent</span></font>, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit Celebrity Cruises website. And for more information about Celebrity Solstice, visit Celebrity Solstice website.</font></p>','2013-01-19 23:49:12',312,1,1,NULL,NULL,543,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,2,10,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(855,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Kate Golden, Juneau Empire','Two cruise ships blamed for emissions violations','332203835_838535282.jpg','2008-09-15 22:23:00','<p>The state\'s cruise ship program manager says two Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. ships violated visible air emissions standards last year. </p><p>The ships were the Vision of the Seas and the Serenade of the Seas, on July 1 and Aug. 9 last year. </p><p>Royal Caribbean did not respond Friday afternoon to requests for comment. </p><p>Cruise ship program manager Denise Koch of the Department of Environmental Conservation notified Royal Caribbean of the violations on Monday. </p><p>Enforcement isn\'t over, as the state Department of Law takes the case from here. The cruise line can still argue that DEC was wrong. </p><p>Royal Caribbean may be liable for criminal or civil penalties. Past enforcement cases have cost cruise lines $27,500 per violation. The Department of Law also could suspend penalties contingent on future good behavior, or waive them entirely. </p><p>The state\'s air quality standards come from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They are designed to keep people from breathing harmful sulfur and nitrogen compounds and particulate matter. </p><p>Plumes are tested not with gadgets that measure those harmful compounds, but by how thick they look to the human eye. EPA-trained observers are certified to reliably assess the opacity of a smokestack. </p><p>Cruise ships\' plumes are not allowed to be more than 20 percent opaque for more than three minutes in any hour, except when they\'re casting off or coming into port. </p><p>In Southeast, weather can make it difficult to take readings. EPA guidelines require no-rain conditions. </p><p>Last year, 30 cruise ships visited Alaska. DEC did more than 170 readings. </p><p>Ships can and do report their own violations to the department, Koch said. They did not in either of these incidents, though. </p><p>Public complaints also play a role. They don\'t trigger a violation, but the department generally follows up on complaints with readings. Koch said there is some correlation between the number of notices of violation and the number of public complaints. </p><p>&quot;I find some of the complaints are when the plumes combine a bit and form what we sometimes call a haze,&quot; said Ed White, of the cruise ship program. </p><p>This year, the department heard more complaints from Ketchikan and Skagway as well as Juneau, White said. </p><p>The state found the most violations in the first two years of the cruise ship regulatory program. Fifteen ships were cited for violations in 2000, and 11 in 2001. Since then, violations have dropped off to one or two a year, save 2006, when there were none. </p><p>The two Royal Caribbean ships are the only air quality violators being cited for last year\'s cruise ship season. </p><p>These cases are coming out late. Ordinarily, the cruise ship program handles enforcement cases in the fall after the cruise ship season. But in the last year the department has been busy implementing several new programs, such as for the general wastewater discharge permit, Koch said. </p><p>Enforcement ramped up a bit this year, as the department had three people instead of one certified to take readings. The 2008 enforcement cases are expected by the end of the month. </p>','2013-01-19 23:52:27',435,1,1,NULL,NULL,544,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,2,10,'Ship may be fined: Kelly Burnet waves goodbye to the Serenade of the Seas at the end of the 2007 season. According to the state, the ship violated visible air emissions standards last year.\r\n','Michael Penn / Juneau Empire',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(856,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Danica Coto, Associated Press Writer','Caribbean officials working to lure visitors back','Caribbean_20Header_20Picture_363588171.jpg','2008-09-15 22:24:00','<div class=\"ar\">SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) -- Caribbean tourism officials are working overtime to reassure reluctant travelers that plenty of sun-soaked islands were untouched by a recent spate of deadly tropical cyclones. <p>Potential visitors may assume the entire region was ravaged by four storms that pummeled several islands since mid-August -- but they assume wrong, said Alec Sanguinetti, head of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. </p><p>The trade group is lobbying U.S. and Caribbean meteorologists to counter that impression by naming specific islands affected, and is urging local tourism officials to use Web cams and broadcast live video of idyllic beach settings. </p><p>It\'s a challenging sell, since Caribbean weather reports and satellite images have shown an almost constant mass of spinning storms in recent weeks. </p><p>Tropical Storm Fay formed in mid-August, followed by Hurricanes Gustav, Hanna and Ike. The storms have killed more than 360 people across the western Caribbean and battered hotels and airports in Cuba, the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. </p><p>Tourism is the Caribbean\'s chief industry, drawing more than 15 million visitors to beach resorts and colonial capitals last year. </p><p>Storms so far have sidestepped Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the entire eastern Caribbean, including Martinique and Barbados. </p><p>Government officials are still calculating damages. Johnson JohnRose, spokesman for the Caribbean Tourism Organization, said it is too early to say how many tourists canceled hotel bookings, and Sanguinetti did not estimate how much resorts have lost. </p><p>But Hurricane Ike caused an estimated $5 million to $10 million in damage to the cruise ship terminal in Grand Turk over the weekend, according to officials with Carnival Corp., which owns the cruise ship pier and terminal on the island. And in Cuba, officials evacuated about 10,000 tourists from seaside hotels. </p><p>Hotels in the Bahamas meanwhile lost about $1 million in storm-related cancellations -- although some income was recovered when cruise ships were later diverted there from other islands hurt by Ike, said Vernice Walkine, director of the chain\'s tourism ministry. </p><p>&quot;It\'s one of those difficult scenarios where some destinations end up benefiting as a result of the misfortune of others,&quot; Walkine said. </p><p>&nbsp;</p></div>','2013-01-21 16:54:02',331,1,1,NULL,NULL,545,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,'Tourism officials trying to entice visitors, tourist dollars back to storm-raked Caribbean',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(857,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Galveston to cruisers: Your cars are ruined','IM000671_641622350.jpg','2008-09-15 22:31:00','<p>The Galveston Daily News has some bad news this morning for people who sailed out of Galveston last week on cruises to the Caribbean: Your cars are more than likely ruined. </p><p>The news outlet quotes a city spokeswoman who says vehicles left in port parking lots last week by cruise passengers &quot;are most likely a total loss&quot; due to damage from Hurricane Ike. </p><p>Two ships sailed out of Galveston before the storm hit on Saturday -- the 2,974-passenger Carnival Conquest and the 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy. As of early this morning, both were still at sea. As we reported last week, Carnival decided to go ahead with the Ecstasy sailing even after it became clear the storm would make landfall near the city and officials had issued a mandatory evacuation order.</p><p>The Daily News also says the Port of Galveston could be shut down for an extended period in the wake of Hurricane Ike, and cruises likely will not resume for some time. The cruise terminal was flooded with two to three feet of water, and the wall next to the water was torn down, the news outlet says. </p><p>As we reported late Sunday, Carnival already has canceled two cruises scheduled to begin today at the port. The line says passengers scheduled to sail on the cruises -- on the Conquest and Ecstasy -- will receive full refunds.</p><p>With the Port of Galveston closed, the two ships are now heading to New Orleans, where they will disembark passengers over the next two days. </p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:57',358,1,1,NULL,NULL,547,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,2,7,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(858,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Industry News','Port of Houston Authority in Assess and Operation Recovery Mode','port_894764266.jpg','2008-09-15 22:35:00','The Port of Houston Authority is in an asset assessment and operation recovery mode. The welfare of PHA\'s employees, customers and neighbors is our first concern.<br /><br />PHA management is requesting that all of its employees contact their direct supervisors regarding their return to work status immediately.<br />If you do not have their home or cell numbers, please leave a status message on their PHA office voice mail.<br /><br />Based on preliminary assessments, the PHA facilities have limited negative impact from Hurricane Ike. As is most of the Houston Area, we are without electricity and we are operating with limited temporary power from generators.<br /><br />Initial assessments of the PHA terminals revealed minimal wind damage that knocked down a few fences, containers and electrical lines. We also received expected minimal water damage that caused some standing water. Overall, the Port Authority facilities and its assets are in good shape considering the magnitude and strength of the hurricane. All PHA windblown debris has been contained on the PHA property. The vast majority of the cargo is safe, secure and undamaged.<br /><br />All of the vessels docked at PHA terminals are secure. The Rickmars Seoul marine vessel did break loose, but it was contained and secured within a matter of minutes thanks to nearby tugboat operators.<br /><br />PHA staff is working with CenterPoint Energy to establish power as soon as possible. Pending the establishment of power, we expect to open the PHA at 7 a.m. on Monday, September 15, to focus on cleanup and further assessments. We are still assessing when we can begin accepting trucks at our terminals. We will make that determination tomorrow evening and we will notify the trucking industry accordingly.<br /><br />As far as the Port of Houston opening to vessel traffic, we rely on the Captain of the Port to make that determination. At this time, that determination has not been made. We will continue to coordinate communication and assessment efforts with the local and regional port coordination team.','2013-01-19 23:50:04',290,1,1,NULL,NULL,546,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,5,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(859,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Mobile, Ala., gets larger cruise ship to replace aging Holiday','123_177126974.jpg','2008-09-17 15:23:00','<p>MOBILE, Ala. - Carnival Corp. will replace its Mobile-based Holiday cruise ship with the larger Fantasy vessel next year, boosting its capacity at the Alabama port by 42 per cent. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Carnival spokesman Terry Thornton said the 2,056-passenger Fantasy will undergo improvements this fall while in dry dock, turning some open decks into water parks with a 91-metre spiral slide. The ship, normally based in New Orleans, will move to Mobile in November 2009. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 1,452-passenger Holiday, Carnival\'s oldest vessel, will operate from Mobile until then, when it will be transferred to Iberocruceros in Spain. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Holiday has been based at Mobile since 2004 when the city entered the cruise market. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile approved spending US$3 million to upgrade the cruise terminal to handle a larger vessel and continues to search for a second ship for the city. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since its arrival, the Holiday on average has sailed full, according to Carnival, and the Fantasy will bring more tourism dollars. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With the Fantasy based in Mobile, Carnival expects to carry about 170,000 passengers annually from the port. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, the cruise industry expects to benefit from the rising cost of air travel, Thornton said. He said airlines could cut capacity this fall. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Fantasy runs four-and five-day cruises to the west Caribbean. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><!-- phugc --><div id=\"dtk-cmtscnt\"><div class=\"divider\"><!-- --></div></div>','2013-01-19 23:51:48',329,1,1,NULL,NULL,548,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(860,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','P&amp;O Cruises','Pacific Sun Reveals New Look and Unveils Spa Oasis',NULL,'2008-09-18 00:27:00','<p>Passengers on P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; Pacific Sun can now relax in a new child-free Oasis spa retreat &ndash; the highlight of a multi-million dollar revamp of the ship.</p><p>Other new features include an ocean-view gym and a coffee bar, as well as a fresh new look for the 47,000-tonne liner, which has been repainted in P&amp;O Cruises&rsquo; classic all-white livery.</p><p>Overseen by Australian design firm McRae &amp; Lynch, the refurbishment has created even more ways for passengers to relax and enjoy their time at sea.</p><p>At the top of the list is the transformation of the ship&rsquo;s top sun deck into an inviting Oasis retreat, featuring chocolate brown wicker daybeds, lounges, tables and ottomans and a new whirlpool spa.</p><p>Recognising Australians&rsquo; love of a good coffee, P&amp;O Cruises has also created a coffee shop, the Outback Bar.</p><p>Meanwhile, the ship&rsquo;s library has been refurbished, enabling it to transform at night into an elegant Steakhouse offering an intimate dining experience.</p><p>Under the changes, passengers will be able to work off their gourmet meals in a new gym area with views over the ship&rsquo;s wake. The former gym area has been transformed into a relaxation room for the ship&rsquo;s popular Lotus Spa, giving passengers another space to chill out.</p><p>Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, which operates P&amp;O Cruises, said the changes reflected the company&rsquo;s continuing drive to extend its onboard product to create an even better holiday experience for passengers.</p><p>&ldquo;Australians love cruising and the makeover of Brisbane&rsquo;s own Pacific Sun is part of a much wider program to rejuvenate the onboard product offering across our fleet,&rdquo; Ms Sherry said.</p><p>&ldquo;We have overhauled our menus, hired a new executive chef and introduced an exclusive local wine list to keep pace with our passenger&rsquo;s changing tastes.&rdquo;</p><p>The 1900-passenger Pacific Sun first debuted in the Australian market in 2004 and offers South Pacific and Queensland cruises from Brisbane.</p><p>Fares on the refurbished Pacific Sun start from $895 per person twin-share for all 7-night sailings departing Brisbane during November 2008.</p>','2013-01-19 23:53:22',154,1,1,NULL,NULL,549,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(861,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','USA Today','Royal Caribbean: No cut to cruise ship fuel surcharge for now','123_730026928.jpg','2008-09-18 00:28:00','<p>Royal Caribbean says it will keep its $10-a-passenger daily fuel surcharge in place for the time being, despite the recent plunge in oil prices.</p><p>&quot;We are happy to see the pullback in fuel prices, relative to their record high levels of the recent past, (and) we are hopeful these lower prices will stay with us or come down further,&quot; the company says in a statement issued in response to a question from USA TODAY. &quot;However, we continue to see considerable volatility in fuel price movements around the world and believe it would be premature to lower the supplement at this time.&quot; </p><p>As we noted Monday in a story on fuel surcharges, the price of oil is now far below the level at which it stood back in June when cruise lines pushed through their latest round of fuel surcharge hikes. </p><p>The last announcement of a fuel surcharge increase by a major line came on June 17 when Royal Caribbean said it would raise its daily fuel surcharge by $2 to $10 per person. At the time oil was trading at nearly $140 a barrel -- more than 40% higher than it is today.</p><p>Indeed, the current price of oil -- $91.15 a barrel as of late Tuesday -- is far below the $120 level where it traded in April when lines such as Royal Caribbean pushed through an earlier round of fuel surcharge increases. The price of oil has dropped more than $50 a barrel since July. </p><p>Cruise lines began adding fuel surcharges last November as oil prices first approached $100 a barrel. </p><p>Royal Caribbean, the parent company of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara Cruises, isn\'t saying how low oil prices would have to go for the line to slash its fuel surcharge.</p><p>&quot;We look forward to being in a position to pass on the benefits of lower fuel costs to our customers,&quot; the line notes in the statement. &quot;We will continue to closely monitor and assess the appropriateness of the fuel supplement we charge, in light of the fuel pricing environment and our fuel-related costs.&quot;</p><p>Royal Caribbean\'s statement echoes comments made to USA TODAY Monday by a spokesman for Carnival Corp., the parent company of Carnival, Princess, Holland America and Cunard. Together the two companies control a majority of the cruise business.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:46:40',268,1,1,NULL,NULL,550,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(862,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Pulse','Cunard’s QE2 Makes Final Call to Port of Boston','Boston_20city_20from_20harbor_20boat_701825976.jpg','2008-09-18 00:31:00','<p>Cunard&rsquo;s Queen Elizabeth 2 will make its final visit to Cruiseport Boston on Sept. 18. In more than 40 years of service, QE2 has made 50 calls to Boston, including 21 overnight calls. The maiden call to the city was on Oct. 1, 1979, and the most recent visit was Oct. 3, 2007. QE2 visited Boston approximately once per year in the fall as part of its annual Autumn Colors voyage. Afternoon viewing festivities will commence at 5 p.m. at DCR&rsquo;s Castle Island in South Boston with fireboat water displays by Massport Fire-Rescue and the Boston Fire Department. As QE2 sails away for the last time, British Deputy Consul-General Chris Henderson will be present for an 11-round Howitzer salute by the Massachusetts Army National Guard 1st Battalion 101st Field Artillery to be fired from the Lt. John McCorkle Pier.</p><p><br />The QE2 will become visible in the harbor at approximately 7 a.m. from DCR&rsquo;s Castle Island in South Boston. Viewing is prohibited from the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal Pier, so the best opportunity to see the ship while docked will be from the Summer Street Bridge over the Reserved Channel in South Boston. QE2 comes to Boston on a 20-day, final voyage to Canada and New England. It will complete service in November and relocate to Dubai as a floating hotel and museum at The Palm Jumeirah, the world&rsquo;s largest man-made island. QE2 was launched by the queen on Sept. 20, 1967, and is the longest-serving ship in Cunard&rsquo;s 168-year history. It has logged more than 5.6 million nautical miles (equivalent to traveling to the moon and back 13 times), carried more than 2.5 million passengers, undertaken 25 world cruises, and crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times. For more information, visit www.massport.com or www.cunard.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:48:13',215,1,1,NULL,NULL,551,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(863,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Regent Seven Seas','Regent Seven Seas Cruises Announces Major Fleet Enhancement &amp; Refurbishment','rssc_homeimage_530929058.gif','2008-09-18 00:33:00','<p><font color=\"#000000\">FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Sept 15 &ndash; Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced that it will invest approximately $40 million dollars to implement an extensive refurbishment and enhancement of the line&rsquo;s all-suite vessels: Seven Seas Voyager&reg;, Seven Seas Mariner&reg;, and Seven Seas Navigator&reg;. This investment is in addition to the $20 million that was spent on the fleet over the past two years as the line re-branded under the Regent moniker.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;I am delighted to make this announcement as we are not only refurbishing the ships, we are adding many new luxury features that will enhance the guest experience,&rdquo; said Mark Conroy, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. &ldquo;This comprehensive enhancement program will see each of the ships emerge essentially brand new and positions our fleet as the standard-bearer in the <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">luxury </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">cruise</span></font> category,&rdquo; he added.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The refurbishments will commence in December 2008 with the dry-dock of Seven Seas Voyager, followed by Seven Seas Mariner in January 2009, and Seven Seas Navigator in the first half of 2010, and result in a new look that is fresh, elegant and luxurious yet retains the familial warmth and charm for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises is lauded.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">In addition to the scheduled technical work, almost every area of the ships will be refurbished, with public rooms being substantially re-designed with new furniture, using sumptuous materials like imported leathers, suede, and mahogany, along with warm <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">color </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">schemes</span></font> and rich fabrics offset by lustrous marble and granite accents. The renowned marine architectural firm of Yran and Storbraaten of Oslo, Norway, is overseeing the design work along with Regent Seven Seas Cruises&rsquo; Vessel Operations team. Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner will be refurbished at the Grand Bahama shipyard in <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Freeport</span></font>, Bahamas. Final details and the location of Seven Seas Navigator&rsquo;s 2010 dry dock will be announced at a later date.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">Highlights of the refurbishment program for Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner include:</font></p><ul><li><font color=\"#000000\">The creation of a new alternative dining concept and venue&ndash;-a steakhouse named Prime Seven-&ndash;that will replace the current Indochine-menu Latitudes restaurants </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">The re-design of lounges and public rooms to create more spacious areas for relaxation </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">The creation of elegant new lounge and dining areas around the Pool Grill </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">New carpeting, wallpaper, upholstery, light fixtures, and drapes in most public areas and guest suite <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">accommodations</span></font> </font></li><li><font color=\"#000000\">More casual dining options with the addition of pizza ovens and ice-cream bars </font><p><font color=\"#000000\">The creation of an extended coffee and snack bar area on Seven Seas Voyager, similar to the very popular Coffee Connection on Seven Seas Mariner </font></p></li></ul><p><font color=\"#000000\">&ldquo;This significant investment not only demonstrates our commitment to our guests and the bright future of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises brand, it elevates the experience to new heights and provides a glimpse of what the future holds,&rdquo; stated Frank Del Rio, Chairman of Prestige Cruise Holdings, RSSC&rsquo;s parent company. &ldquo;Mark and I spent a good deal of time on the ships this past spring speaking with our guests and <font style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">travel </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">agent</span></font> partners and I trust they will be as elated with the fruits of this labor as we are,&rdquo; added Del Rio.</font></p><p><font color=\"#000000\">The refurbishment and product enhancements are the result of extensive feedback from RSSC&rsquo;s loyal guest base, through comment cards, personal interaction between the line&rsquo;s management and the guests in regular &ldquo;town hall&rdquo; meetings or through the online community. For further details of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, visit www.RSSC.com</font></p>','2013-01-19 23:51:43',233,1,1,NULL,NULL,552,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(864,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Royal Caribbean International','Royal Caribbean Encores World-Class Entertainment on Oasis of the Seas','123_594691592.jpg','2008-09-18 00:35:00','<p>MIAMI, Sept. 16 &mdash; The curtain has been raised on another neighborhood aboard Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Intl&rsquo;s newest and highly anticipated ship set to launch in November 2009. Entertainment Place, a complex of diverse entertainment venues, is one of seven neighborhoods on the world&rsquo;s largest and most revolutionary cruise ship - a unique concept providing vacationers with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal style, preference or mood. Previously announced neighborhoods include, Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, and the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.</p><p>A contemporary night club district, Entertainment Place will introduce new signature after-dark spaces in more intimate venues that offer a variety of entertainment experiences. The new collection of venues will include Blaze, the hottest nightclub at sea; Jazz on 4, an intimate lounge filled with live jazz and blues; and Comedy Live, featuring side-splitting comedy. Dance enthusiasts also will be able to enjoy an elegant evening in Dazzles, a dance lounge featuring musically themed evenings, dance lessons and competitions. A video showing a preview of Entertainment Place with interviews from Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s executives can be viewed on www.OasisoftheSeas.com.</p><p>Whether guests are looking for a mellow low-key evening or an exhilarating high-energy &lsquo;night on the town,&rsquo; Entertainment Place will have an experience to suit any mood. Those in need of a good belly laugh will be drawn to Comedy Live, the comedy club where headline acts will interact with the audience and provide engaging and customized performances each evening. The festive space with decor inspired by a New York subway station, features an underground theme with bright casual furnishings, glazed tiling and a ceiling map of the subway system.</p><p>Inspired by prohibition-era Chicago, Jazz on 4, with its warm tones of rich walnut paneling, plush sofas and chairs and velvety drapes accented with hand-stitched Swarovski crystals, will provide an intimate experience as guests enjoy soulful rhythms. Blaze, with its dramatic entrance of doors &lsquo;burning&rsquo; with hot flames and a &lsquo;charred&rsquo; threshold, delivers the quintessential nightclub experience where guests can dance the night away to pulsating music in a hip and trendy atmosphere.</p><p>Oasis of the Seas also will offer guests some of the most captivating theatrical productions ever created by the cruise line&rsquo;s award-winning Royal Caribbean Productions team. The Opal Theater, Oasis of the Seas&rsquo; state-of-the- art 1,380-seat main theater, will feature a thrust stage and proscenium extending into the audience space to create a more intimate and interactive environment. Entertainers will make their entrances from unexpected locations around the venue and perform aerial acrobatics enveloping audience members in an experience which unfolds around and above them. The popular Studio B with its ice skating rink will continue to awe guests with spectacular and vibrant ice shows and serve as the locale for a variety of themed events.</p><p>The late-night energy of Entertainment Place will center around Casino Royale, the largest and most sophisticated casino at sea. Guests will enter through two themed walkway entrances - the first showcasing the 40-year legacy of Royal Caribbean Intl and the second, the Museum of Gaming, which immerses guests in the history of gaming. The elegant and stylish casino, reminiscent of the classic casinos found on the <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">French </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">Riviera</span></font>, features dramatic sculptured architecture, sparkling crystal chandeliers and decor in jewel-toned hues of amethyst, aquamarine and ruby. Casino Royale will feature 450 slot machines; extensive table games including Blackjack, roulette, craps, and Caribbean Stud Poker; and a bar and lounge area from which to take in the casino action. Other amenities include a poker room and players club.</p><p>Sure to be popular with guests, Dazzles is a spectacular venue - spanning two decks - with an expansive floor-to-ceiling window offering breathtaking views of the Boardwalk below. The new dance lounge will offer a variety of musical experiences ranging from 1940&rsquo;s <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">big </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">band</span></font> to disco to ballroom evenings. In the evenings, the elegant space is theatrically illuminated with dazzling constellations of small twinkling lights reflecting off glass and mirrored surfaces above and below. During the day, Dazzles will be open for guests to enjoy the view of the bustling activity on the Boardwalk over a drink or to learn a new dance move with a professional dance instructor.</p><p>A multitude of entertainment experiences will be found in all of the seven neighborhoods on Oasis of the Seas where guests will be engaged throughout their <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">cruise </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">vacation</span></font>. From musical and theatrical street performances in the tranquil gardens of Central Park or on the festive Boardwalk, to daring aerial acrobatic performances in the Royal Promenade, which will introduce a new dimension to Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s signature street parades. AquaTheater will deliver a complete sensory experience playing on the element of surprise as audience members witness the venue come alive with heart-pounding aerial and aquatic acrobatics, as well as elaborate fountain shows synchronized to music and lights.</p><p>The On Air Club, located in the Royal Promenade, will radiate energy day and night with television monitors featuring news, sporting events and music. In addition, guests can put on a performance of their own on stage singing <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">karaoke</span></font> or create their own <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">music </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">video</span></font> in a private video booth. Also in Royal Promenade, are other popular Royal Caribbean venues, Bolero&rsquo;s Latin club and the Schooner Bar, featuring sing-along entertainment. Club 20, a high- energy late night <font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">dance </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">club</span></font> experience under the stars, will transform the adults-only Solarium into an evening hot spot.</p><p>When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas 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 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line&rsquo;s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center and Entertainment Place. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Additional information is available at www.oasisoftheseas.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:50:46',251,1,1,NULL,NULL,553,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(865,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Cruise Lines’ Two Galveston-Based Ships To Operate From Port Of Houston','123_519865636.jpg','2008-09-18 00:40:00','<p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">As a result of the closure of the Port of Galveston due to damage from Hurricane Ike, Carnival Cruise Lines&rsquo; two Galveston-based ships, Carnival Conquest and Carnival Ecstasy, are scheduled to operate their regular cruise programs from the Port of Houston&rsquo;s Bayport Cruise Terminal effective with this weekend&rsquo;s departures.<span></span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">The 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy will resume its four- and five-day Mexico schedule from the Port of Houston starting with a five-day cruise departing Saturday, Sept. 20.<span>&nbsp; </span>Beginning with the departure of Sunday, Sept. 21, the 2,974-passenger Carnival Conquest will depart Houston on seven-day cruises to the western Caribbean. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Both vessels are currently docked in New Orleans where they were deployed following the closure of the Port of Galveston. Carnival Conquest will arrive at the Port of Houston on Thursday, Sept. 18, and Carnival Ecstasy on Friday, Sept. 19, to disembark those guests who opted to remain aboard the vessels following their previous voyages. <span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">&ldquo;We are pleased to continue our Texas operations from the Port of Houston, which will be a convenient option for guests who have already made travel arrangements for previously scheduled Galveston departures,&rdquo; said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;We are especially grateful to the Port of Houston for their responsiveness.<span>&nbsp; </span>Many of their personnel involved in making this happen were dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ike but set that aside to work with us on very short notice to assure that these vessels would continue to have a Texas homeport and with minimal disruption to our guests,&rdquo; he added.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Cahill indicated that the company plans to return to Galveston as soon as the necessary repairs to the port facilities are completed.<span>&nbsp; </span>&ldquo;The Port of Galveston has been a valued and important partner since we launched year-round cruising from there in 2000.<span>&nbsp; </span>We look forward to bringing both the Carnival Conquest and Carnival Ecstasy back to the city as quickly as we can.<span>&nbsp; </span>We have enjoyed an outstanding relationship with Galveston over the years and our thoughts and prayers are with the people of this wonderful city during this difficult time,&rdquo; he said. </span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Carnival&rsquo;s two Houston-based ships will operate the same itineraries as they did from Galveston. Carnival Conquest will sail seven-day western Caribbean voyages departing Sundays to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. Carnival Ecstasy will depart Thursdays on four-day cruises to Cozumel, and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day voyages to Cozumel and Progreso.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">The Port of Houston&rsquo;s newly opened Bayport Terminal is an $81 million state-of-the-art facility with 96,000 square feet of space.<span>&nbsp; </span>It is conveniently accessed from both of the city&rsquo;s airports, and a variety of fine restaurants and shops are located nearby.<span>&nbsp;&nbsp; </span>The Carnival Conquest and Carnival Ecstasy will be the first cruise ships to utilize the new facility.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">Carnival&rsquo;s 22-vessel fleet operates three- to 18-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe and South America. The line currently has two new ships scheduled to enter service between now and 2011.</span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\"></span></span></p><p style=\"margin: 0px\" class=\"MsoNormal\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman\">For additional information contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.</span></span></p>','2013-01-19 23:54:25',374,1,1,NULL,NULL,554,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Carnival Conquest, Carnival Ecstasy to Arrive at Houston’s Bayport Terminal Later This Week',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(866,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Norwegian Cruise Line','Aker Yards rumoured to offer NCL&#039;s F3 for sale','610x_814734036.jpg','2008-09-21 23:45:00','<p>The future of NCL Corporation\'s (NCL) 150,000 gross ton F3 innovative new-build due out in early 2010, seems to be hanging in the balance, Cruise Critic.com reports. </p><p>Just two days after reports surfaced suggesting significant contractual disputes between NCL and Aker France, the yard responsible for F3\'s construction, talks seem to have broken down further. Seatrade Insider, an industry publication, is reporting that Aker is actually shopping the project. </p><p>According to the report, Carnival Corp &amp; PLC and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd and MSC Cruises, have all been contacted. The NCL-Aker fallout is said to stem from disagreements over the cost of altering certain specs on the vessel, which has been under construction for months (keel was laid back in April). </p><p>The chance of another line picking up the project seems highly unlikely, given the unusual nature of the F3 design -- structurally unique curved wave cabins, no main dining room, no main theater -- which represents a dramatic shift away from more traditionally designed ships. Seatrade\'s source notes that if another line agreed to take on the project, a lot of changes would need to be made. </p><p>Aker Yards won an order for two similar vessels from NCL in September 2006. NCL later decided not take up an option for the third ship.</p>','2013-01-13 09:27:24',519,1,1,NULL,NULL,555,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(867,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','The Duke of Edinburgh to bid farewell to QE2','QE2_300308362.jpg','2008-09-21 23:47:00','<p>It was with great honour that Cunard Cruises announced that His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will make a farewell visit to Queen Elizabeth 2 in her homeport of Southampton on Tuesday 11 November 2008.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Cunard Cruise&rsquo;s most famous ship, QE2 will spend her final day in the UK on Tuesday 11 November before departing on her final voyage at 1915 hours to journey to Dubai where she will become a first class hotel and entertainment centre.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>QE2 is the most famous ship in the world and for some 35 years has been Cunard Cruises flagship, since being launched by Her Majesty The Queen at Clydebank on 20 September 1967 with His Royal Highness also in attendance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since that day QE2 has become a ship of legends, travelling almost 5.9 million nautical miles, more than any ship ever; has carried 2.5 million guests; has completed 25 world cruises and crossed the Atlantic 804 times.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His Royal Highness has a history with QE2 that dates from her launch and has visited her five times since the laying of her Keel on 14 July 1967. Immediately prior her maiden voyage His Royal Highness visited on 1 May 1969; on 29 May 1969 for the Council of Industrial Design Awards; on 19 June 1991 for a Royal Ball in association with the Duke of Edinburgh&rsquo;s Award Scheme and on 27 July 1990 to mark Cunard Cruises 150th Anniversary.</p><p><br />Details of the visit on 11 November will be announced shortly, but Cunard&rsquo;s President and Managing Director, Carol Marlow, comments:<br />&ldquo;We are delighted and honoured that His Royal Highness has agreed to visit QE2 on her last day in the UK. The Duke of Edinburgh has taken a close interest in the ship over the last forty years, and I am certain this will be a memorable occasion for all involved&rdquo;.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:38',238,1,1,NULL,NULL,556,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(868,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Queen Mary 2&#039;s 100th Transatlantic crossing','queen_mary_396078206.jpg','2008-09-21 23:48:00','<p>Sept 18 &ndash; As Queen Mary 2 prepares to sail her 100th Transatlantic Crossing, Cunard Line reveals the captivating statistics that illustrate the Line&rsquo;s singular hold on the bygone glamour that defines their Transatlantic travel experience. The only company offering regularly scheduled Transatlantic service via flagship Queen Mary 2, Cunard Line continues a tradition that began 168 years ago. The iconic ocean liner will depart on her 100th Transatlantic voyage on September 21 from Southampton, England arriving in New York on September 27. On arrival, she will have logged 711,288 nautical miles since her debut with 316,729 nautical miles on Transatlantic voyages alone.</p><p>&ldquo;Perhaps more than any other voyage, a Transatlantic Crossing captures the imagination of the most intrepid travelers,&rdquo; said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. &ldquo;A Transatlantic voyage recalls a bygone era of glamour and sophistication. For many, it is on par with the world&rsquo;s most storied travel experiences.&rdquo;</p><p>Queen Mary 2&rsquo;s regularly scheduled Transatlantic service forms the cornerstone of her annual itineraries, which also includes her second World Cruise in 2009 and forays into the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Norway.</p><p>Since the ship entered service in 2004, Queen Mary 2 has made dozens of maiden calls around the world, including San Francisco - where thousands lined the shores of the City by the Bay to witness her sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and her overnight visit caused gridlock traffic on the Embarcadero; along with great port cities such as Boston and Ft. Lauderdale. She has provided a glamorous backdrop for a myriad of high-profile events, including The Britannia Ball (a charity gala benefitting the New York City Opera and Brooklyn Academy of Music) in 2007; the PBS TV Concert Special: Carly Simon: A Moonlight Serenade on the Queen Mary 2; an onboard event honouring George Lucas at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival; as well as several Cunard Royal Rendezvous events in New York, Ft. Lauderdale, Long Beach, California and Sydney, Australia with her sister ships, QE2 and Queen Victoria. Queen Mary 2 even played a role in literary history, transporting the first author-signed copy of the highly anticipated Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to its U.S. debut.</p><p>In addition to logging nearly three-quarters of a million miles, Queen Mary 2 will mark other milestones on her 100th Transatlantic voyage, including:</p><p>- More than 229,000 guests crossing the North Atlantic <br />- 450 pets crossing the North Atlantic <br />- 97,000 pounds of lobster served <br />- 2,700 pounds of caviar served <br />- 206,200 bottles of Champagne served <br />- Enough tea to fill nearly five Olympic-sized swimming pools</p><p><br />Queen Mary 2 has welcomed many notable guests, including Barbara Walters, Katie Couric, Uma Thurman, John Cleese, Richard Dreyfuss, Carly Simon, Rod Stewart, Tina Brown and Harold Evans, Terrance Howard, Donald Trump, and Dame Shirley Bassey. Her eminent visitors have included HRH Queen Elizabeth II, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Queen Noor, Former President George Bush, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Senator Hillary Clinton.</p><p>In 2009, Queen Mary 2 marks her fifth year of service with an extended Transatlantic season of 6-, 8- and 9-day Crossings. In total, she will sail 25 Transatlantic Crossings, including classic six-day voyages between Southampton and New York, two eight-day voyages between Hamburg and New York, one eight-day voyage from Boston via New York to Southampton and one nine-day Crossing from Southampton via New York to Halifax and Boston. For more information and reservations, contact your travel professional, call 1-800-7-CUNARD or visit www.cunard.com.</p>','2013-01-20 00:02:08',268,1,1,NULL,NULL,557,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(869,7,1,'vivvo@localhost','By Kristen A. Lee, AP Business Writer','Carnival 3Q profit dips, but beats forecasts','123_148796123.jpg','2008-09-21 23:50:00','<p>NEW YORK (AP) -- Carnival Corp., the world\'s largest cruise operator, beat analysts\' third-quarter profit expectations and raised its 2008 guidance, although signs of weakness in advance bookings worried some analysts and investors.&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br />Carnival\'s quarterly profit dipped 3 percent, a smaller decline than Wall Street anticipated, due to lower-than-expected cruise costs and an insurance gain related to Hurricane Wilma in 2005. Net income for the quarter ended Aug. 31 fell to $1.33 billion, or $1.65 per share, from $1.38 billion, or $1.67 per share, a year ago as higher fuel prices cost the Miami-based company 28 cents per share.</p><p>Revenue gained 11 percent to $4.81 billion from $4.32 billion a year earlier, as North American brands were helped by strong demand for Caribbean cruises.</p><p>Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters had forecast earnings of $1.58 per share on slightly higher revenue of $4.84 billion.</p><p>In a statement, Carnival Chairman and Chief Executive Micky Arison said that for the rest of 2008 and the first half of 2009, occupancy levels for advance bookings are running slightly behind last year\'s, although they remain ahead of those in 2006 and ticket prices are higher.</p><p>&quot;Although bookings have slowed compared to the strong booking levels of a year ago, pricing is holding up well given the current difficult economic environment,&quot; he said.</p><p>On a conference call with investors, Chief Operating Officer Howard Frank said the company is &quot;trying to hold onto as much pricing as we can going into 2009.&quot;</p><p>Citi Investment Research analyst Joshua Attie, who affirmed a &quot;Hold&quot; rating on shares, said it may become more difficult for Carnival to keep raising prices if bookings continue to slow. Stifel Nicolaus &amp; Co. analyst Steven Wieczynski, however, said he believes management is being &quot;overly cautious&quot; and maintained a &quot;Buy&quot; rating on the stock. He noted, however, that overcapacity may weigh on results in the first half of next year.</p><p>Carnival executives indicated they do not plan to eliminate the fuel surcharges they have added to passengers\' tabs, despite a recent drop in fuel prices. Frank noted that the charges only recover a portion of Carnival\'s added fuel expenses, which are expected to total $678 million, or 83 cents per share, this year.</p><p>The executives also noted that a strengthening U.S. dollar will reduce profits at the company\'s European operations.</p><p>Net revenue yield, a key profitability gauge, gained 4.1 percent in the quarter, or 1.3 percent on a constant dollar basis. Net yield represents the amount the company made from its passengers per day after subtracting expenses.</p><p>In one sign that squeezed consumers are cutting back on overall vacation spending, Carnival noted that onboard revenue were lower than estimated across most of the company\'s brands in North America and in Europe.</p><p>Buoyed by the recent drop in fuel prices, Carnival raised its outlook for 2008 earnings per share to a range of $2.79 to $2.81, compared with its previous forecast of $2.70 to $2.80. The new guidance is well above analysts\' average estimate of $2.75.</p><p>The company predicts fourth-quarter earnings per share will range from 36 cents to 38 cents, down from 44 cents in the prior year period. Analysts expect profit will total 37 cents per share.</p><p>Carnival shares dropped more than 4 percent earlier in the session, but finished the session with a gain of 30 cents at $39.23. The stock has ranged between $29.22 and $52.10 during the past 52 weeks.</p>','2011-01-03 18:27:44',557,1,1,NULL,NULL,558,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Cruise operator Carnival&#039;s 3rd-quarter profit dips 3 percent, but beats analysts&#039; forecasts',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(870,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Delivers Entertainment Enhancements','vista_show_901258360.jpg','2008-09-21 23:52:00','<p>SEATTLE, Sept. 19 &mdash; As part of Holland America Line&rsquo;s latest Signature of Excellence enhancements, entertainment on board five popular ships is evolving to feature a new music program, the new Showroom at Sea, expanded entertainment and enrichment activities and a video game room featuring the<br />latest craze in high-tech entertainment. The enhancements are part of an extensive $200-million program that will occur during nearly month-long dry docks on ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam beginning in spring 2009.</p><p>&ldquo;The new musical offerings and entertainment initiatives are designed to be even more compelling and relevant to today&rsquo;s premium cruiser,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. &ldquo;These enhancements will allow us to offer more venues<br />and more choices to our guests.&rdquo;</p><p>Signature Bands Featured on All Ships<br />Joining the resident shipboard entertainment staff are three new musical groups catering to a wide audience: The HALCats, The Neptunes and Adaggio. Each ship in the fleet will now feature an ensemble of these signature musical groups. An eight-piece party band, The HALCats play the music of the &rsquo;60s, &rsquo;70s and &rsquo;80s throughout the ship. Charged with creating a sophisticated and sultry mood, The Neptunes, a three-piece combo, feature music from the Great American Songbook. Adaggio, a string quartet, comprised of a viola, cello and two violins, perform<br />light classics in the Explorer&rsquo;s Lounge. Guests can dance to the tunes of Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick Jr. in the newly refurbished Ocean Bar.</p><p>Showroom at Sea<br />Holland America Line has redesigned its main show space to combine modern stage technology and decor with the ambiance of a glamorous nightclub. Called Showroom at Sea, this venue will feature new show concepts along with production-style shows. Remodeled seating and a larger parquet dance floor will also feature movable tables and chairs complete with white-linen tablecloths and cafe lamps. The old-Hollywood atmosphere in this intimate room is just the place to dance the night away.</p><p>High-Tech Entertainment<br />The latest video game craze across the nation is now coming to Holland America Line ships. Interactive games and other high-tech entertainment, complete with large flatscreen televisions, are being installed in a new space called the Sky Room and will test players&rsquo; game skills. This high-tech game room features several &ldquo;rooms within a room&rdquo; and will include plenty of lounging chairs and couches for onlookers and participants alike.</p><p>Explorations Team Expands Activities<br />Entertainment and enrichment are taking on a new, contemporary look and feel across the fleet. A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff, each specializing in a particular area, to educate and entertain guests with an expanded menu of activities including flower arranging, hands-on cooking, dancing and working with digital photos, blogs and movies. Each team consists of a cruise director, a party planner, a travel guide, dance directors and a &ldquo;techspert.&rdquo; On longer cruises, a book club leader joins the team to lead lively group discussions.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas &mdash; Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the five ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. For a cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:55:34',173,1,1,NULL,NULL,559,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(871,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Pulse','NCL Reportedly Tells Employees First F3 Is Cancelled','123_728690822.jpg','2008-09-22 21:13:00','Corp. has told its employees that the first 150,000-ton F3 ship order has been cancelled but that a decision has not been finalized on whether to proceed with the second vessel, a source within the company told Travel Pulse. However, NCL has remained officially mum on the issue, saying it does not comment on legal issues, while the shipyard, Aker Yards France, has said the project remains ongoing. Separately, Travel Pulse has learned that a headhunter search for the top sales executive has been called off, leading to speculation that Andy Stuart, who had been overseeing the F3 project, would return to his former position as executive vice president of sales, marketing and passenger services. He was named chief product officer in April in charge of Freestyle Cruising fleetwide but also to oversee the F3 project. At that time, the company said a search was underway to fill the executive vice president position in change of sales and marketing. Stuart led a separate F3 team, which included several top NCL executives, including Amy Hiles-Maynard, who became vice president-F3 marketing, and Susan Robison, who was vice president-F3 public relations.\r\n\r\nMeanwhile, Seatrade Insider reported Sept. 19 that Aker is shopping around the F3 project, for which the keel was laid in April. The yard approached Carnival Corp., Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and MSC Cruises, Seatrade reported. The problems with the $2 billion F3 project apparently center on the cost of major changes in the prototype. NCL had promised the ship would be unlike any other, with no main restaurant, no main show lounge and no Lido café. The “New Wave” staterooms have curved walls. The company’s last major announcement on the ship revealed plans for an ice bar and other hip nightlife venues more akin to South Beach or Las Vegas. But the ship’s differences could make it difficult for another company to pick up the prototype without making major changes.\r\n\r\nThe uncertainty over the high-profile project raises questions that so far remain unaddressed by NCL. “NCL just can’t seem to catch a break,” said one long-time industry insider. “The only thing that isn’t in question is that the quality of the product improved exponentially since the introduction of Freestyle Cruising in 2000.” The two F3 ships had been scheduled for delivery in March and October 2010. For more information on NCL, visit www.ncl.com.\r\n','2013-01-19 23:50:48',320,1,1,NULL,NULL,564,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(872,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Fran Golden, Wicked Local','New ships to cruise the high seas','AquaTheater_w_Water_Show_2_155515258.jpg','2008-09-22 21:18:00','<p>The big cruise lines are preparing to introduce their new generation of ships, and cruise travelers are in for some innovations and surprises. We\'re talking merry-go-rounds, giant water parks, hot nightspots and a big focus on the ocean and outdoors.</p><p><br /><strong>Dream a big Dream</strong><br />When it debuts in September 2009, Carnival\'s new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream will be the largest ship in the &quot;Fun Ship&quot; fleet.<br />Currently under construction in Italy, the 3,646-passenger ship will offer a new space called The Piazza, an indoor/outdoor cafe and live music venue with a circular dance floor and whirlpools that extend over the ship\'s beam so you feel like you\'re floating above the water. The ship will also have what are being promoted as the &quot;most elaborate&quot; children\'s facilities at sea, including a huge Carnival WaterWorks water park with two waterslides.<br />Adults will get their own quiet outdoor retreat and pool called Serenity, and the ship\'s Cloud 9 Spa is being billed as the &quot;largest and most elaborate&quot; to date. Other cool features include a two-level mini golf course.<br />The Carnival Dream will introduce new cabin configurations including family cabins for five with two bathrooms (one full with shower and the other with a mini-tub and sink) and &quot;cove&quot; cabins with balconies near the waterline. There will also be spa cabins and suites with special amenities.<br />The ship debuts in Europe and will do two cruises from New York on Nov. 15 and 23, 2009, before taking up its permanent home in Port Canaveral, Fla., sailing on alternating, weeklong eastern and western Caribbean itineraries year-round. The New York cruises will visit Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas as well as Port Canaveral (near Orlando).<br />For reservations, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.carnival.com.</p><p><br /><strong>Big, bigger, biggest</strong><br />Royal Caribbean is the current record holder for world\'s largest ship with its Independence of the Seas, a 160,000-ton vessel. But the line will top itself when it debuts the much anticipated, 220,000-ton Oasis of the Seas in December 2009.<br />That is a lot of additional space, and at the shipyard in Finland, Royal Caribbean is adding all sorts of first-time-on-a-cruise-ship features for the 5,400 passengers to enjoy, including an outdoor boardwalk area with a handcrafted merry-go-round, beachside-style shops and eateries, and carnival games.<br />The ship will have an extensive water park and a Sports Zone with such first-on-a-cruise-ship innovations as a zip line. But what would you expect from a company that earlier brought ice skating rinks and rock climbing walls to cruise ships?<br />And there\'s more. The upper center of Oasis of the Seas, Central Park, will be a lush park spanning the length of a football field, with scenic pathways, real flowers and trees, and alfresco dining as well as outdoor entertainment including concerts and street performers. The first moving bar at sea, the Rising Tide Bar, will ascend three decks above the park providing views while you imbibe. <br />The first Beach Pool at sea will feature a sloping entry through shallow water, sans sand but with beach chairs, umbrellas and private cabanas. And other new and notable features include AquaTheater, a kidney-shaped pool area with tiered platforms for sunning. During the day, guests will be able to take scuba lessons in the pool. At night, the place will be transformed into a setting for fountain shows synchronized to lights and music.<br />Of the 37 different types of cabins, those with big bucks can book the first two-level, loft-style cabins at sea (the upper level bedroom overlooks the living room and others offer expansive ocean views).<br />Oasis of the Seas will cruise the Caribbean from its homeport of Fort Lauderdale. For reservations, call 800-ROYALCARIBBEAN, or visit www.royalcaribbean.com.</p><p><br /><strong>Cruising goes hot and icy</strong><br />Norwegian Cruise Line\'s new generation of ships is supposed to debut in 2010, with the first of two 150,000-ton, 4,200-passenger vessels, currently known as F3. At press time, there were reports of a legal dispute with the shipyard in France, on which NCL declined comment. But details of the ship have been announced. Here, one big emphasis is on nightlife, with a club scene inspired by Vegas, South Beach and other hip locales.<br />The shipboard hotspots will include the POSH Beach Club, an adults-only venue on top of the ship. During the day, cushioned day beds and private cabanas will provide a place to catch rays and ocean breezes and a 35-foot waterfall a place to cool off. At night, the scene will include bottle service on silver trays and dancing under the stars.<br />The F3 will also debut the first Ice Bar at sea. In the frozen chamber - temperatures kept below 17 degrees - guests will be able to enjoy ice cold vodka and a Northern Lights display while donning a fur coat, hat and gloves (all provided).<br />Cabins will have the unusual feature of wavy walls and separate shower and toilet compartments.<br />Norwegian Cruise Line has not yet disclosed itineraries for the ship, nor opened reservations. Stay tuned. For more information, call 866-234-0292 or visit www.ncl.com.</p><p><br /><strong>Celebrity cruising</strong><br />Premium line Celebrity Cruises launches the first of its new generation of ships this November with the German-built Celebrity Solstice. While perhaps not aiming to make as many waves as the new mainstream ships, the 122,000-ton, 2,850-passenger vessel will introduce treats of a more cerebral sort including the first glassblowing demonstrations at sea - operated in conjunction with The Corning Museum of Glass.<br />The ship will also boast a half-acre Lawn Club, with real grass, where passengers can play bocce ball and croquet, practice their golf putting, picnic or go barefoot in the park - while also enjoying the passing sea views.<br />Celebrity Solstice will have a broad variety of dining options, and accommodation choices including AquaClass spa cabins, with special spa privileges.<br />The ship will sail the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale in winter and cruise Europe in the summer. For reservations, call 800-437-3111 or visit www.celebritycruises.com.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:01',249,1,1,NULL,NULL,560,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(873,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','BYM Marine &amp; Maritime News','Celebrity Cruises has announced new itineraries for Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Mercury','1153747674_807563467.jpg','2008-09-22 21:23:00','<p><font size=\"2\"><font face=\"Arial\">Celebrity Cruises presents guests with new cruise vacation options from the historic coastal cities of Baltimore, Maryland, and Charleston, South Carolina, along with the brand&rsquo;s popular Caribbean cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Correspondingly, the line announced plans to discontinue its Australia and New Zealand cruises previously scheduled for late-2009 and 2010 on Celebrity Millennium. <br />&ldquo;Australia and New Zealand are charming and beautiful destinations, and we&rsquo;re confident we&rsquo;ll return again as our brand and fleet grows,&rdquo; said Celebrity&rsquo;s President &amp; CEO Dan Hanrahan. &ldquo;Currently, though, our travel agent partners and guests have repeatedly said they want more options to sail with Celebrity from the Eastern seaboard, where our brand was founded, and still has a very large and loyal base of cruisers. So, we&rsquo;re pleased to present some very attractive new cruise vacations from that region.&rdquo; <br /><br /><strong>Celebrity Millennium takes on Celebrity Mercury&rsquo;s territory</strong><br /><br />The 2,038-guest Celebrity Millennium will cap its 2009 season in Alaska with cruises previously scheduled for the 1,898-guest Celebrity Mercury, offering more capacity on the popular sailings. The itineraries will reflect those previously announced for Celebrity Mercury, with the addition of a 12-night wine-themed cruise departing from Vancouver on September 28, 2009, followed by an eastbound, 16-night Panama Canal cruise on October 10, 2009, from San Diego to San Juan, where Celebrity Millennium will offer a series of 10- and 11-night Southern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from San Juan, beginning October 26, 2009. Ports of call on the Southern Caribbean itineraries include Tortola, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Curacao, Aruba, St. Croix, St. Kitts and Dominica, with slight variations between the 10- and 11-night sailings. <br />Guests with reservations on the sailings previously scheduled for Celebrity Mercury will be contacted and re-accommodated on the same sailing dates on Celebrity Millennium, at the rates paid. <br /><br /><strong>Celebrity Mercury offer new options on the Eastern seaboard</strong></font></font></p><p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial\">Celebrity Mercury will sail a 17-night Panama Canal cruise from San Diego on October 23, 2009, ending in Baltimore. There, from November 2009 to February 2010, the ship will present a series of new 12-night Eastern Caribbean cruises visiting St. Thomas; St. Kitts; Antigua; St. Maarten, and Tortola, as well as four 9-night cruises visiting Charleston; Key West, Fla., and Cococay and Nassau, Bahamas. <br />Celebrity Mercury then will present a series of 10- and 11-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from Charleston from February through April 2010, with visits to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Kitts and Tortola on the eastern series, and Key West; Costa Maya, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel, Mexico, and Nassau on the western lineup. <br />The new itineraries on Celebrity Mercury replace the Southern Caribbean cruises from San Juan previously scheduled from November 2009 to April 2010. Guests with affected bookings will be contacted and offered the option to be reaccommodated in like accommodations on identical Southern Caribbean itineraries on Celebrity Millennium at the rate paid. <br />Guests holding either individual or group reservations on Celebrity Millennium&rsquo;s previously scheduled Australia and New Zealand cruises between October 9, 2009 and March 22, 2010, will be offered the option to either re-book on Celebrity Millennium&rsquo;s Australia and New Zealand cruises between October 17, 2008 and April 12, 2009, subject to availability, at the prevailing rate, and will receive a $600 per-stateroom or $800 per-suite onboard credit. Alternatively, these guests may re-book Celebrity Millennium&rsquo;s new Panama Canal or Southern Caribbean sailings between October 10, 2009 and April 16, 2010, and receive a $200 per stateroom and $400 per suite onboard credit. <br />All guests and travel agent partners with affected bookings will be contacted by Celebrity Cruises. A special toll-free line also has been established to answer questions: 1-888-281-9343. The number is the same for both individual and group bookings. <br />Any reservations on the late-2009 and early-2010 Celebrity Millennium sailings in Australia and New Zealand that have not been moved or cancelled by Friday, October 3, 2008, will be cancelled automatically.</span></p>','2013-01-19 23:47:47',272,1,1,NULL,NULL,561,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(874,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Regent Seven Seas','Regent Seven Seas refurbishment plans','voyager_538043831.jpg','2008-09-22 21:25:00','<p>Regent Seven Seas have announced plans to carry out major refurbishment work on its fleet of supremely luxurious cruise liners. The plan is to spend around $40 million renovating the Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Navigator.</p><p>Some of Regent Sevens seas planned renovations include the addition of several new and exclusive dining areas, along with new wallpaper, carpets and light fixtures. Regent Seven Seas sail to Antarctica, Bermuda and the Caribbean, just some of the amazing destinations the luxury cruise line visits.</p><p>RSSC president Mark Conroy said the enhancements would improve the onboard experience for guests.</p><p>&quot;This comprehensive enhancement program will see each of the ships emerge essentially brand new and positions our fleet as the standard-bearer in the luxury cruise category,&quot; he added.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:40',252,1,1,NULL,NULL,563,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(875,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Mark Szakonyi, Jacksonville Business Journal','Cruise industry watching city’s success with larger ship','205762_600_0_1_124130259.jpg','2008-09-22 21:27:00','<p>JACKSONVILLE &mdash; Carnival Cruise Lines&rsquo; launch of a newer and bigger ship from Jacksonville reflects the local industry&rsquo;s growing potential to attract larger ships and more lines.</p><p>The industry leader&rsquo;s move to replace the 1,486-passenger Celebration on Sept. 20 with the 2,052-passenger Fascination was spurred by the increased attractiveness of the area, which a third of the nation&rsquo;s population can drive to within a day, said Tony Orsini, the Jacksonville Port Authority&rsquo;s senior director of cruise operations.</p><p>Orsini said &ldquo;the industry is watching&rdquo; to see how the authority and Carnival will handle the Fascination&rsquo;s expected annual 170,000 passengers, 38 percent more than the Celebration&rsquo;s capacity. The economic impact of the new ship isn&rsquo;t known, but a 2006 study completed by John C. Martin Associates LLC found that the smaller ship&rsquo;s presence created 400 jobs and had a $40 million annual impact on Northeast Florida.</p><p>Pricier plane tickets, fewer available airline seats and the increased hassle of flying make the port more attractive to drive-in passengers. But for Jacksonville to fully tap its potential, it needs to build a new cruise terminal in Mayport Village. The Dames Point bridge and power lines over the St. Johns River limit the size of ships that can call on the terminal at Dames Point.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-19 23:54:20',277,1,1,NULL,NULL,565,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Carnival Cruise Line’s Fascination has a new home port in Jacksonville. The ship can carry more than 2,000 passengers.','Andy Newman',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(876,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival, Jaxport Commemorate Arrival of Jacksonville’s Largest Cruise Ship','123_168728406.jpg','2008-09-22 21:29:00','<p>Carnival and JAXPORT marked the arrival of the 2,052-passenger Carnival Fascination &ndash; the newest and largest cruise ship ever to sail from Jacksonville &ndash; with a special VIP event aboard the vessel on Saturday, September 20.&nbsp; </p><p><br />Later that afternoon, the 70,000-ton SuperLiner departed on its inaugural cruise from Jacksonville &ndash; a five-day cruise to the Bahamas.&nbsp; </p><p>On its new Jacksonville-based schedule, four-day cruises departing Thursdays visit Freeport and Nassau, five-day cruises departing Saturdays call at the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay and Nassau, while five-day voyages departing Mondays stop at Key West and Nassau.</p><p>The Carnival Fascination will sail on 78 voyages annually from Jacksonville, carrying an estimated 170,000 passengers annually.</p>','2013-01-19 23:51:56',308,1,1,NULL,NULL,562,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,1,4,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(877,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Associated Press','Cruise ship to Caribbean to sail from Baltimore','ms_celebrity_mercury_122072868.jpg','2008-09-23 23:10:00','<p>BALTIMORE (AP) - A 1,900-person cruise ship will begin sailing from Baltimore to the Eastern Caribbean and down the East Coast next year.</p><p>The governor\'s office announced Monday that Celebrity Mercury will offer 12-night cruises to St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Antigua, St. Maarten and Tortola starting in November 2009. It will also offer nine-night excursions to Charleston, S.C., Key West, Fla., Cococay and Nassau.</p><p>The Celebrity Mercury will be docked in Baltimore until February 2010.</p><p>Celebrity is the latest of several cruise lines that is offering trips from Baltimore starting next year. Carnival Cruise Lines will offer year-round cruises and Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise lines have scheduled trips to begin in 2009.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-20 00:00:21',257,1,1,NULL,NULL,566,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(878,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Celebrity Cruises cancel Australia 2009/10 cruises','aus_166856621.jpg','2008-09-23 23:12:00','<p>Celebrity Cruises have announced that they will be removing their Australia and New Zealand sailings from their winter 2009/10 itineraries. Celebrity Cruises begun the sailings in 2007 but have now decided to operate Celebrity Millennium in Alaska which is a more popular destination and will ensure a fuller capacity on board.</p><p>Celebrity Millennium will take over from Celebrity Mercury, who will move to the Caribbean where it will be based out of Baltimore for future voyages. Celebrity Cruises final Australian cruise will be in April 2009.</p><p>For those customers that have made bookings for the Australia sailings after April 2009, Celebrity Cruises will be in touch imminently, with the option of cancelling the booking with a full refund or to re-book similar itineraries including Celebrity Millennium&rsquo;s final sailing &lsquo;down under&rsquo;.</p>','2013-01-13 09:29:18',198,1,1,NULL,NULL,569,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(879,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','PRNewswire','Discovery Returns From Wet Dock Better Than Ever','123_345330629.jpg','2008-09-23 23:12:00','<p>MIAMI, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Discovery Cruise Line, the largest tour<br />operator to Grand Bahama Island sailing between Fort Lauderdale and Grand<br />Bahama, announced that the Discovery Sun will complete its regular wet dock<br />schedule on September 24 and will resume its normal sailing itinerary on<br />September 25.</p><p>Hanns J. Hahn, General Manager of Discovery, said, &quot;The wet dock schedule<br />was for routine surveys and repairs, as well as to update some of the cabins<br />and common areas.&quot;&nbsp; Hahn said, &quot;The vessel remains in full compliance with<br />pertinent IMO requirements and the U.S. C. G. interpretation of such<br />requirements.&quot;</p><p><br />Discovery sails every day except Wednesdays from Port Everglades in Fort<br />Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island, departing at 7:45 am and returning at 10<br />pm.&nbsp; Discovery offers Fun Day cruises as well as cruise and stay vacation<br />packages at most of the island\'s hotels.</p>','2013-01-13 09:39:23',185,1,1,NULL,NULL,567,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'America&#039;s Favorite Day Cruise completes routine surveys and repairs',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(880,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Juneau Empire','Cruise ship violates wastewater permit','Nerd_9_1_Ziederdam_wah_876903459.jpg','2008-09-23 23:18:00','<p>JUNEAU - A Holland America cruise ship violated its wastewater discharge permit in May, June and July, according to state regulators. </p><p>This is the first year cruise ships have been regulated under the permit, which voters in 2006 mandated the state Department of Environmental Conservation to issue. </p><p>Cruise lines, including Holland, told the state they wouldn\'t be able to meet permit limits on ammonia, zinc, copper and nitrogen in the wastewater, and DEC issued interim limits for this year for those pollutants. </p><p>Wastewater samples from the 1,848-passenger Westerdam had higher-than-permitted ammonia, zinc and biological oxygen demand. The latter indicates the amount of organic waste in the water. </p><p>Holland America is owned by Miami-based Carnival Corp. &amp; PLC. </p><p>The state cruise ship program is expected to release more enforcement cases next week. </p>','2013-01-13 09:41:23',223,1,1,NULL,NULL,568,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(881,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Cruise Lines To Operate First-Ever Quebec Voyages Aboard 102,000-Ton Carnival Triumph In 2009','123_400715257.jpg','2008-09-23 23:20:00','<p>For guests seeking a unique cruise alternative with opportunities to view magnificent scenery and wildlife and visit three charming cities along the historic St. Lawrence River, Carnival Cruise Lines will operate a series of nine-day voyages to Quebec aboard the 102,000-ton Carnival Triumph in summer 2009.&nbsp; </p><p>The cruises will operate round-trip from New York on June 25, July 23 and August 20, 2009.</p><p>In addition to visits to the fascinating cities of Quebec City, Baie-Comeau, and Havre St. Pierre, the new nine-day &ldquo;Quebec - After the Glaciers&rdquo; voyages include an unforgettable daylong cruise along the scenic St. Lawrence River, home to numerous whales and other marine life, along with awe-inspiring landscapes carved out of glaciers.&nbsp; </p><p>Guests can also visit Quebec&rsquo;s breathtaking nature and wildlife preserves where they can get an &ldquo;up close and personal look&rdquo; at the Canadian wilderness and view unique rock formations and native plant, sea and animal life. </p><p>The new nine-day Quebec departures are the latest additions to Carnival&rsquo;s popular New York cruise schedule, which also includes four- and five-day eastern Canada voyages and seven-day fall foliage cruises aboard the Carnival Triumph June-August, and eight-day Caribbean sailings aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle, operating April-October. </p><p>&ldquo;Carnival is always seeking exciting new itinerary choices and these new nine-day sailings provide guests of all ages an opportunity to experience and explore the natural wonders of Quebec, one of North America&rsquo;s most historic and fascinating cruising regions,&rdquo; Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO.&nbsp; &ldquo;And when combined with a departure from New York &ndash; a convenient homeport and an exciting destination unto itself &ndash; these voyages are even more attractive,&rdquo; Cahill added.&nbsp; </p><p>He noted that this new program is ideal for multi-generational travel, offering an opportunity for families to experience and explore a truly unique and historic region that is unlike anywhere else in the world. </p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p><p>Exciting Nine-Day Quebec Cruises</p><p>Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s nine-day Quebec voyages are highlighted by an extended 16-hour port call to Quebec City, which includes an optional shore excursion to Montreal, a cosmopolitan city of two million that is home to world-class museums and excellent restaurants and shopping.&nbsp; Guests can also visit breathtaking Saguenay Fjord, home to no less than five different species of whales.&nbsp; </p><p>The adventure continues with an eight-hour call at Baie Comeau where guests can visit Boreal Park &mdash; home to numerous former glacier fields &mdash; tour the Glacier Interpretation Center, and partake in a variety of exciting outdoor adventure activities.</p><p>During the eight-hour stop in Havre St. Pierre, guests can visit Parks Canada Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, which encompasses 93 square miles and includes&nbsp; 900 limestone islands and islets featuring 450 species of plants, over 200 species of birds and a wide variety of sea life.&nbsp; Here, guests can witness the power of the glaciers that have been carved out of stone gigantic monoliths, spectacular cliffs and arches, creating a beautiful natural art form.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Carnival Triumph:&nbsp; A Spectacular &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo; </p><p>Encompassing 13 passenger decks, Carnival Triumph offers a variety of on-board amenities: four restaurants, including two two-level main dining rooms and an expansive poolside eatery, along with four swimming pools, a 214-foot-long cascading water slide,&nbsp; and 18 lounges and bars whose interiors are inspired by the world&rsquo;s great bodies of water.</p><p>The ship also features a 14,500-square-foot health club, full casino gambling and a duty-free shopping mall. Expansive facilities and organized activities for &ldquo;Camp Carnival,&rdquo; &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; and &ldquo;Club O2,&rdquo; catering to children, &rsquo;tweens and teens, respectively, are also available.&nbsp; An Internet caf&eacute;, along with Wi-Fi access and cell phone service are featured, as well. </p><p>A majority of the ship&rsquo;s 1,379 staterooms offer an ocean view or private balcony &ndash; perfect for scenic cruising.&nbsp; All Carnival Triumph accommodations feature the Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reservations</p><p>Reservations are currently being accepted for Carnival Triumph&rsquo;s new nine-day Quebec sailings from New York.</p><p>Round-trip air supplements from a variety of North American gateways, as well as special discounted rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom, are also available.</p>','2013-01-13 09:29:24',235,1,1,NULL,NULL,570,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(882,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Digital Signage Today','Panasonic digital signage selected by Princess Cruises','gpcalyp_326600176.jpg','2008-09-26 22:43:00','<div style=\"padding-right: 145px\"><span class=\"newtext\"><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\">SECAUCUS, NJ &mdash; Princess Cruises offer an escape from daily life in some of the world&rsquo;s most beautiful settings. Now several of their ships have been enhanced by the installation of large-screen LED systems from Panasonic Systems Integration, a division of Panasonic System Solutions Company. </font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\">Panasonic LED boards had already been installed on numerous Princess ships including the Caribbean Princess, Grand Princess, Sea Princess, Crown Princess and Emerald Princess. Now an additional Panasonic LED board is being placed on the Ruby Princess, an installation that is expected to be completed this fall. To date, the Panasonic large-screen systems have only been installed on Grand Class ships, those that carry more than 3,000 passengers. </font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\">&quot;Princess needed a large-screen solution that would meet the unique needs of an on-board installation,&quot; said Keith Hanak, group manager, Panasonic Systems Integration.&nbsp; &quot;Panasonic&rsquo;s LED provides the durability and performance they need for viewing during both daylight hours and at night.&quot;</font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\">The environment on board the ships is much more demanding than the typical large-screen installation on land. The Panasonic LED screens must withstand the ships\' movement and vibrations as well as a range of extreme weather conditions and the salty air and water, for which the screens are IP 66 rated. A brightness sensor in each board automatically adjusts the screen according to the position of the sun with regard to the board.</font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\"></font></div><div><font face=\"Verdana\" size=\"2\">&quot;Movies Under The Stars&quot; is one of the evening activities offered aboard the Princess ships. In addition to providing the displays for these movies, Panasonic&rsquo;s LED solutions are used for a variety of deck-side games and may be used for live camera shots in the future. A number of Panasonic plasma screens are also used on board in the ships\' lounges, stage areas and common areas.</font></div></span></div>','2013-01-21 15:44:46',197,2,1,NULL,NULL,571,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(883,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Pulse','New Zealand Gains in Popularity With U.S. Cruisers','milford_sound_cruise_in_new_zealand_403029430.jpg','2008-09-26 22:45:00','<p>Cruising in New Zealand is booming in popularity with the U.S. traveler. Recent figures show that New Zealand&rsquo;s cruise industry has grown from 27 cruises and 19,400 passengers in the 1996/1997 season, to last season&rsquo;s 116,200 passengers on 98 cruises. U.S. travelers make up the single largest nationality to explore New Zealand by cruise ship, with Americans accounting for 39 percent of all international passengers. Boasting 9,800 miles of coastline, New Zealand has several ports easily reached by cruise ships. The small distances between these ports allow cruises in New Zealand to stop every day, meaning passengers can see more in a shorter time than in other destinations. Sixty-eight percent of all passengers indicate that, having had a taste of New Zealand on a cruise, they would be likely to return to New Zealand for a future vacation.</p><p>Many of the major cruise lines visit New Zealand, including Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Princess Cruises, Silversea, Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas. Highlights of a typical cruise itinerary include the Art Deco town and plentiful vineyards of Napier in the Hawkes Bay; the surf beaches of the Bay of Plenty; and the diverse cities of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. All cruises to New Zealand also cruise Milford Sound. Cruising season to New Zealand is between October and April, when the southern hemisphere summer is at its peak. For more information, visit www.newzealand.com.</p>','2013-01-13 09:39:25',239,1,1,NULL,NULL,572,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(884,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Business Review','Fire hits Oasis of the Seas, 1,500 workers evacuated','15011329_932754483.jpg','2008-09-26 22:49:00','A fire broke out on board Oasis of the Seas, the first in a series of two 225,000 gross ton cruise liners Royal Caribbean International (RCI) has on order at Aker Yards Finland. <br /><br />Some 1,500 workers that were on board the ship at the time the fire started at about midday on Thursday were evacuated. Insulation material on deck 9 caught fire in connection wityh welding work and the yard\'s own fire fighters were able to put it out before it could cause extensive damage, the Kauppalehti business daily reports on its website.<br /><br />Although the were no casualties, the fire caused a lot of smoke, which spread from deck 9 to various decks higher up on the ship, the report said.','2013-01-13 09:39:27',304,1,1,NULL,NULL,574,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(885,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Kate Golden, Juneau Empire','9 cruise ships violate permits for wastewater','303232382_976128108.jpg','2008-09-26 22:53:00','<p>State regulators say nine cruise ships violated the terms of their wastewater discharge permits in the first half of this year\'s cruise season. </p><p>Six Princess Cruises ships, a Norwegian Cruise Line ship and a Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship were cited for exceeding limits on wastewater pollution. Last week, a Holland America cruise ship was cited. The state Department of Environmental Conservation has not yet dealt with samples from August and September, and may find more violations. </p><p>That makes roughly half of the 20 cruise ships that regularly discharge in Alaska waters. Thirty-one large cruise ships are covered under the general cruise ship permit to discharge in Alaska waters, but not all of them do so. </p><p>&quot;It wasn\'t surprising. We self-report the exceedances,&quot; said Bruce Bustamante, the spokesman for Princess Cruises. &quot;It\'s been an ongoing process throughout the summer to make sure our ships are performing as best they can. This is a whole new set of parameters the cruise ships haven\'t dealt with in the past.&quot; </p><p>Princess and Holland are owned by Carnival Corp. &amp; PLC, based in Miami and London. Miami-based Norwegian is owned by Apollo Management and the Genting Group. Regent Seven Seas is owned by Apollo. </p><p>Denise Koch, cruise ship program manager for DEC, says the permit limits are more stringent than permits for municipalities. The water quality standards are the same, but cruise ship samples are measured at the end of the pipe, where effluents are the most concentrated, rather than after they have been diluted. Cruise lines argue they should be allowed such mixing zones and have lobbied the Alaska Legislature to change the law. </p><p>But until then, they\'re bound under the no-mixing-zone terms of the general permit, which voters in 2006 mandated DEC to issue. </p><p>The cruise lines said before the season began they wouldn\'t be able to meet newly strict limits on four pollutants: nickel, copper, zinc and ammonia. That came to pass even after the state gave the cruise lines less strict interim limits for this year and next. Twenty of the 27 violations were for exceeding those interim limits. The other violations were for fecal coliform, chlorine, acidity and biological dissolved oxygen. </p><p>They didn\'t miss their limits by much, said cruise industry watchdog and Juneau attorney Joe Geldhof. He co-wrote the ballot initiative requiring the permit with Haines-based Gershon Cohen of the Earth Island Institute. </p><p>&quot;They\'re so close,&quot; Geldhof said. &quot;With a little bit more work, they can do it.&quot; </p><p>&quot;They have been making this huge deal about the copper levels in the drinking water, and yet only two ships just barely exceeded the limit for copper,&quot; Cohen said. &quot;And all of the ships are pretty close to meeting the nonmixing-zone final permit limit right now. So what was all that about?&quot; </p><p>The cruise lines maintain those last trace amounts of pollutants are tough to get rid of. </p><p>&quot;We want to meet the limits, but they\'re very, very, difficult limits to reach,&quot; Bustamante said. </p><p>How the ships will get to those limits depends on the substance. Copper might be reduced by changing the ships\' pipes or where ships get water. Ammonia, found in urine, is unavoidable in wastewater. Decreasing it is more likely to require a technological solution, Koch said. </p><p>&quot;Ammonia\'s clearly something that we need to look at carefully,&quot; she said. </p><p>Koch has the job of getting the cruise lines to comply with their permit in the long term. To get less-strict interim limits, cruise lines were required to submit plans for reducing their wastewater effluents. The department has yet to formally respond on whether those plans are adequate. </p><p>Enforcement of the nine wastewater cases now goes to the state Department of Law, which can decide whether to make the companies pay. According to DEC\'s letters to the cruise lines, individuals could be fined up to $10,000 and organizations up to $200,000 for such violations. </p>','2013-01-13 09:29:24',252,1,1,NULL,NULL,575,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,'Regulators cite nearly half of the 20 ships that regularly discharge in Alaska waters','Under scrutiny: The cruise ship Westerdam docks Wednesday in Juneau. State regulators say nine cruise ships, including the Westerdam, violated the terms of their wastewater discharge permits during the first half of the season.',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(886,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Travel Pulse','Royal Caribbean Tests Surcharge for Organic Steak','freedomofseas_diningroom_558111629.jpg','2008-09-26 22:54:00','Caribbean International is testing offering organic steak in its main dining rooms for an extra fee. The test is being conducted on Freedom of the Seas and Majesty of the Seas. The company is offering an organic 10-ounce New York strip steak for $14.95. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re testing it in the two main dining rooms, so we can get the most feedback,&rdquo; Royal Caribbean spokesman Harrison Liu told Travel Pulse. &ldquo;It doesn&rsquo;t take away from all the other selections available in the dining room as part of the cruise fare. We always have a total of 10 dinner entrees available. This is an 11th option.&rdquo; Liu said a seven-ounce Black Angus sirloin steak is also offered as a standard main course. The steak surcharge drew a firestorm of protest from cruise travelers on the consumer website Cruise Critic, with many fearing it would lead to extra fees in main dining rooms. However, Liu said, &ldquo;We want to see if there is a demand out there for more and more organic choices in the food that we offer. We want to get a representative sample of feedback.&rdquo; For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.','2013-01-13 09:14:24',258,1,1,NULL,NULL,577,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(887,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','New Stateroom Décor, Verandahs, Lanai Staterooms and More on Five Holland America Line Ships','img_deluxe_verandah_popup_985150596.jpg','2008-09-26 22:56:00','<p>Seattle, WA, September 25, 2008 - Five Holland America Line ships will soon undergo individual month-long dry docks at a total cost of approximately $200 million. The most dramatic alterations during the latest Signature of Excellence enhancements will result in an additional 32 verandah staterooms added to the aft portion of each ship. In addition, 46 new innovative lanai staterooms will allow guests direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck and on four ships verandahs will be installed on 12 staterooms on Deck 9 forward.</p><p>On the five ships, ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam, forty-six staterooms on the Lower Promenade deck will become a new lanai category stateroom with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. D&eacute;cor in the lanai staterooms will reflect elements of nature with soothing earth-tones.</p><p>Fifteen new Spa Staterooms will be created from existing staterooms, except on the Rotterdam where 23 staterooms on Verandah deck will be transformed into spa staterooms. The rooms, so named because of their proximity to the Greenhouse Spa and Salon and special in-room spa amenities, offer their own ambiance, providing unmatched relaxation, privacy and serenity. D&eacute;cor reflects the natural elements of the earth with soft earth-tone hues and light, fresh accent colors echoing nature&rsquo;s own. Soothing patterns adorn the bed runner and pillows and graphite-colored carpeting tie together all the elements. A counter-top water feature in each stateroom provides a natural, ambient background sound and artwork reflects serene images in nature. Exclusive spa treatments are offered only in these staterooms.</p><p>&ldquo;By adding or enhancing staterooms with verandahs and lanais, we&rsquo;re able to better meet the guests&rdquo; demand for balcony accommodations,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. &ldquo;The latest Signature of Excellence installment enhances our premium product and the stateroom modifications update the layout and d&eacute;cor of the rooms while remaining elegant.&rdquo;</p><p>Ship capacities will change as a result of the additional staterooms. All five ships also will add a varying number of inside staterooms. Guest capacity on Rotterdam will be 1,404 and capacity on Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam Veendam will be 1,350.</p><p>As part of this next phase of Signature of Excellence, all staterooms and their bathrooms will be enhanced. All staterooms will receive new soft goods including carpet, and desks and vanities will be resurfaced. Decorative wall sconces, drapery and accent pillows will add a touch of modern elegance to the new d&eacute;cor.</p><p>Outside and inside staterooms will be redecorated in rich earth hues complimented by accents of sienna and gold. New soft goods include a rich, olive-colored sofa with decorative pillows, chairs reupholstered in gold chenille, and a bed runner with a design inspired by nature.</p><p>Suites will have a contemporary color scheme with a traditional twist. A rich, dark carpet and chocolate-colored leather sofa contrast with light golden tones of soft goods and maple casework. Accent colors of reddish-orange punctuate sofa pillows, chairs and the bed runner. Sheer cream-colored draperies are light and airy with imprints of gold leaves.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rdquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-22 08:22:56',208,2,1,NULL,NULL,573,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(888,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Launches New &amp; Personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochures','files_862250342.jpg','2008-09-26 22:58:00','Seattle -&nbsp; Holland America Line has launched a new Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system for its guests to view and print shore excursion information for booked cruises. Now, a cruise guest can receive up-to-the minute, personalized information that is specific to the guest&rsquo;s <a href=\"http://cruisetalk.org/2008/09/holland-america-line-launches-new-personalized-shore-excursion-e-brochures.html#\" target=\"_new\" onclick=\"adlinkMouseClick(event,this,2);\"><font color=\"#0054a6\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: static\"><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">cruise </span><span class=\"kLink\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0054a6! important; font-family: \'Trebuchet MS\', Arial, \'Lucida Sans Unicode\', Tahoma, sans-serif; position: relative\">itinerary</span></font></a>. This technological Web enhancement allows guests to access and update any shore excursion that applies to their cruise itinerary on a 24/7 basis. <p>&ldquo;We strive to personalize each guest&rsquo;s experience and to endeavor to make their interaction with us as easy and enriching as possible,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;By giving our guests the flexibility of printing an e-brochure with their shore excursion options that is tailored specifically to their cruise itinerary, we are able to present the exact information they need&mdash;when they need it. Additionally, more and more of our guests applaud our online efforts from an environmental standpoint.&rdquo;</p><p>Besides tailoring the Shore Excursion e-Brochures to each guest&rsquo;s ship and sail date, the online versions offer readers the same useful information as the print versions but with two newly added and helpful features: tour pricing and excursion departure times.</p><p>How the online system works:</p><p>By visiting the Shore Excursion page on Holland America&rsquo;s Web Site, booked guests simply need to input their booking number and last name, click on the &ldquo;View Your Personalized Shore Excursion Brochure&rdquo; link and a personalized e-brochure will immediately download. The Shore Excursion e-Brochure will present the guest&rsquo;s name and all available shore excursions for the guest&rsquo;s booked cruise. Guests have the option of continuing their shore excursion viewing online, printing their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure for review at a later date or booking their tours immediately. Additionally, guests may review their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure from six months to a year before their cruise departure date rather than waiting for a hard-copy version that accompanies guests&rsquo; cruise documents 30 to 60 days from their cruise departure date. In the five weeks since the Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system has gone live, 20,470 guests have downloaded an e-brochure.</p><p>&ldquo;With the launch of Shore Excursion e-Brochures we&rsquo;ve created a way that our guests can leisurely review their shore excursion options in a much timelier manner. This allows guests to book early and to help avoid possible disappointment should the tours that pique their interests potentially sell out,&rdquo; said Meadows.</p>','2013-01-13 09:39:29',352,1,1,NULL,NULL,576,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(889,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Carnival Cruise Lines','Carnival Destiny Launches New Four and Five Day Cruise Schedule From Miami Saturday, Sept. 27','019_874464482.jpg','2008-09-26 23:00:00','<p>When the 2,642-passenger Carnival Destiny begins a new schedule of four- and five-day cruises from Miami on Saturday, Sept. 27, it will not only provide consumers with an exciting new &ldquo;Fun Ship&rdquo; vacation option but will also be the largest ship to be deployed year-round on short cruise itineraries.</p><p>Additionally, the Carnival Destiny offers nearly 500 balcony staterooms and suites &ndash; the most of any ship operating a year-round short-cruise program &ndash; providing consumers with unprecedented variety in their accommodation choices.</p><p>Carnival Destiny&rsquo;s deployment to Miami will also further solidify Carnival&rsquo;s position as the short-cruise leader, with 29 such options from 12 U.S. homeports &ndash; the most in cruising. In total, Carnival&rsquo;s ships will operate nearly 850 departures of five days or less in length with roughly half of its 22-vessel fleet offering short cruise itineraries.</p><p>On its new Miami-based schedule, Carnival Destiny departs Thursdays on four-day cruises to Key West, Fla., and Cozumel, Mexico; Mondays on five-day cruises to Grand Turk, Turks &amp; Caicos Islands; and Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island; and Saturdays on five-day voyages to George Town, Grand Cayman; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica.. </p><p>In addition to providing a convenient and affordable vacation option, Carnival Destiny offers a host of on-board amenities, including some new features that were installed during a recent two-week dry dock. These include Carnival&rsquo;s Seaside Theatre, a massive 270-square-foot outdoor LED screen on Lido Deck displaying movies, concerts, sporting events and other programming, along with an expansive new &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; facility catering to the 12- to 14-year-old age group.</p><p>Located on Sun Deck 12, &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; features a high-tech sound and lighting system, plasma-screen TVs displaying movies and music videos, a touch-screen jukebox, and gaming pods with the latest video games and consoles. A variety of cosmetic enhancements such as new carpeting, wall coverings and tile work, were also completed.</p><p>Continued Expansion of Short Cruise Market</p><p>The deployment of the Carnival Destiny to Miami is one of several enhancements to the line&rsquo;s short cruise programs. </p><p>This past weekend, the 2,052-passenger Carnival Fascination began year-round four- and five-day cruises from Jacksonville, Fla., becoming the newest and largest ship to sail from that port on a year-round basis. The 2,052-passenger Carnival Imagination, which offers such features as a water park and adults-only area &ndash; all part of the &ldquo;Evolutions of Fun&rdquo; product enhancement initiative &ndash; began a new three- and four-day schedule from Miami last week, as well.</p><p>Next year, Carnival will dramatically expand capacity on its short cruise programs from Mobile, Ala., and New Orleans, when the 2,052-passenger Carnival Fantasy and the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph, respectively, launch new programs from those ports in November 2009.</p><p>A Spectacular &lsquo;Fun Ship&rsquo;</p><p>Carnival Destiny &mdash; the world&rsquo;s first 100,000-plus-ton cruise ship &mdash; offers a host of resort-style facilities and features: 18 lounges and bars, including a 1,400-seat theater featuring lavish production revues, a 14,500-square-foot health and wellness center, a jogging track, an Internet caf&eacute;, ship-wide Wi-Fi access and cell phone service.</p><p>Dining options include two two-level main dining rooms with extensive menus and wine lists, a 1,200-seat poolside eatery with a 24-hour pizzeria, a patisserie serving specialty coffees and sweets, and complimentary 24-hour room service.</p><p>In addition to the new &ldquo;Circle C&rdquo; facility for 12- to 14-year-olds, Carnival Destiny offers numerous other family friendly features, including a children&rsquo;s program, &ldquo;Camp Carnival,&rdquo; catering to kids ages two to 11, and &ldquo;Club O2,&rdquo; the line&rsquo;s award-winning teen program for 15- to 17-year olds.</p><p>Carnival Destiny also offers a variety of accommodation categories, including a wide range of balcony staterooms and suites. All staterooms feature the Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>','2013-01-13 09:29:24',230,1,1,NULL,NULL,578,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(890,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','Fred Olsen Cruise Line to go smoke free','cig_643810706.jpg','2008-09-30 01:32:00','<p>Fred Olsen Cruise Line is due to be introducing a new policy from early 2009 which will mean all five of their vessels will have a totally smoke free indoors environment.</p><p>Smoking will be banned in all indoor areas and only permitted on cabin balconies and on specially designated areas of deck space. This new ruling will come into effect initially on three vessels: Boudicca, Black Prince, and Braemar will become smoke free from their first sailings in 2009 (January 1st, 5th and 8th respectively). Black Watch and Balmoral will follow suit after completion of their 2009 world cruises (13th April and 29th May).</p><p><br />&ldquo;A recent very extensive survey amongst our current and past passengers has proved to us without a doubt that this course of action is what most people want and, frankly, expect. Even those passengers who are committed smokers understand the situation and accept that smoking on board will be restricted to balconies and specified deck areas&rdquo; said Mike Rodwell, managing director of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. He continued: &ldquo;Whilst we may have a few negative comments initially, I am confident that many new customers who are non-smokers will be encouraged to cruise with us in the future.&rdquo;</p><p>Fred Olsen Cruise Line operates a fleet of five ships with itineraries in the Canaries, Mediterranean, the Caribbean, North America, Scandinavia and Europe.</p>','2013-01-13 09:39:30',173,1,1,NULL,NULL,579,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(891,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jetline Cruise News','NCL voted most improved cruise line','gem_436200889.jpg','2008-09-30 01:33:00','<p>Norwegian Cruise Line was voted &lsquo;most improved cruise line&rsquo; by CruiseOne, over 550 independent cruise travel agencies and Cruise Inc., the nation&rsquo;s first host agency network, at the agency&rsquo;s 15th annual 2008 national conference which was held at sea on the 14-22 September.</p><p>&quot;In 2008, we have seen significant enhancements with Partnership 2.0 - so much so that our more than 1,000 cruise agents voted NCL &quot;Most Improved Cruise Line&quot; for 2008,&quot; said Dwain Wall, CTC senior vice president, general manager, CruiseOne &amp; Cruises Inc. &quot;The voting, done in August, was one of the highest participations we\'ve seen and NCL was definitely number one in this important category. On behalf of all CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. agents, we thank NCL for their commitment to travel agents. It is clear that Partnership 2.0 has been a great success for both of us.&quot;</p><p>&quot;Earlier this year, NCL set out to strengthen its relationships with its travel partners through Partnership 2.0, so it is gratifying to see that those initiatives have resonated with them,&quot; said Kevin Sheehan, NCL\'s president. &quot;We want our travel partners to know that we are continuously listening to their feedback in order to better improve the way we do business together.&quot;</p><p>NCL is currently building a new third generation Freestyle Cruising project known as F3, set to launch 2010. With the youngest fleet of ships in the industry, NCL is giving guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea. The most recent addition to the NCL fleet is the 2,400 guest Norwegian Gem.</p>','2013-01-13 09:29:29',292,1,1,NULL,NULL,580,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(892,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Gizmodo','Celebrity Solstice has left port for the sea!','bigship_159772161.jpg','2008-09-30 01:35:00','Only five Solstice-class cruise ships will be produced, and the first one (aptly named Solstice) has just left port for the sea. Weighing approximately 134,000 tons, the Solstice is over 1,000 feet long and can hold 4,350 people (or about 3,000 paying customers). It\'s also among the first boats of its kind to have a grass area on the roof.','2013-01-13 09:29:29',286,1,1,NULL,NULL,581,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(893,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Press Association','QE2 fans bid farewell to liner','QE2_9_16_08mine_797203982.jpg','2008-10-07 00:57:00','<p>Thousands of QE2 fans turned out to say goodbye to the famous liner as she sailed up the river of her birth for a final time.<br />The 70,000-tonne ship is on a farewell voyage around the British Isles before sailing into retirement as a floating hotel in Dubai.</p><p>Launched on the Clyde 41 years ago, the QE2 received a warm welcome when she returned to berth at Greenock, Inverclyde. </p><p>Thousands lined the esplanade to watch Cunard\'s longest-serving ship arrive at the port.</p><p>Inverclyde provost Michael McCormick said: &quot;The QE2 stands for all that was and remains good about Inverclyde. She is what we now call a design classic and has gained iconic status. </p><p>&quot;The quality of her finish is tribute to the skills of all those people who worked on her. She is Clydebuilt which means she\'s built to last. </p><p>&quot;We are sorry to see her go and we\'ll never see her likes again but Inverclyde is a major cruise stop and we look forward to welcoming other vessels from around the world.&quot;</p><p>The QE2 was built by the John Brown shipyard in Clydebank and was launched by the Queen in 1967.</p><p>Since then she has travelled almost 5.9 million nautical miles - more than any other ship - and has carried 2.5 million guests. She has completed 25 World Cruises and has crossed the Atlantic 804 times.</p><p>The liner left Liverpool on Friday and will visit Belfast and Edinburgh before arriving in her home port of Southampton next week.</p>','2013-01-20 08:59:13',177,1,1,NULL,NULL,582,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,'Photo QE2 in NY Sept 16,2008 - Copyright: NYCruiseInfo.com',NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(894,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Cruise Business Review','Royal Caribbean to switch UK focus to promoting Celebrity','Celebrity_vt_notag_RM_Cblu_755378099.gif','2008-10-07 01:01:00','<p>Following a successful drive to grow the business of its contemporary market Royal Caribbean International (RCI) brand in the UK, parent company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL) will now switch its focus to grow the sister brand Celebrity Cruises, according to Robin Shaw, UK managing director of the world&rsquo;s second largest cruise shipping group. </p><p>Describing the premium market Celebrity Cruises as &ldquo;the unsung hero of the cruise industry,&rdquo; Shaw told Cruise Business that the company is gearing up to grow the footprint of Celebrity in the UK and in Ireland. </p><p>RCI introduced the 70,000 gross ton Legend of the Seas on a series of cruises from Southampton in 2005 and thanks to the growth of demand, it was replaced by the 137,000 gross ton Navigator of the Seas two years later. In April, the brand new Independence of the Seas of 158,000 gross tons took over the programme and it will return to the UK next spring</p>','2013-01-13 09:41:28',236,1,1,NULL,NULL,583,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(895,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Jane Engle, Los Angeles Times','Planning a cruise during hurricane season? Think on this','300_132048_346448659.jpg','2008-10-06 16:03:00','<p>For their sixth wedding anniversary, Mark and Melissa Hill looked forward to a four-day Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Ecstasy. <br /><br />&quot;We get one vacation a year,&quot; said Mark, a telephone technician from Dallas. &quot;And this was our first trip alone together since we had kids.&quot; <br /><br />The Hills now wish they had stayed home. Their story shows how cruising during hurricane season can create a perfect storm of problems.<br /><br />With Hurricane Ike headed toward Galveston, Texas, where their ship was to depart Sept. 11, the Hills tried to cancel their booking, but Carnival said they would forfeit their cruise fares, about $1,100 total, if they did.<br /><br />So the couple drove to Galveston and boarded the ship. Two days later, Ike devastated the coastal town and flooded vehicles parked at the port, including the Hills\' 2003 sport coupe, which was destroyed. <br /><br />The Ecstasy cruised safely. But unable to return to Galveston, the ship diverted to New Orleans and later to Houston. The Hills, like more than 1,200 of their fellow cruisers, disembarked in New Orleans. After finding &quot;not a single rental car,&quot; Mark said, they paid nearly $400 total to fly home. <br /><br />The Carnival Ecstasy\'s plight has kept cruise chat rooms buzzing. Some blame the cruise line for the fiasco; some say it did the best it could; some say passengers were foolish to sail. <br /><br />Mark said he and Melissa weighed &quot;a guaranteed loss of money&quot; against &quot;a risk of something possibly happening to my car.&quot;<br /><br />&quot;We took the risk, and we paid,&quot; he said.<br /><br />To avoid such a Hobson\'s choice, you need to evaluate the risks of a Caribbean cruise during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June 1 to Nov. 30. Your trip could be trouble-free, of course. But if bad weather develops, things can go very wrong. <br /><br />As some Carnival passengers learned, safeguards that seemed sturdy can crumble faster than a sand castle in a rainstorm. Here are some of the questions that arose and the lessons cruisers can take from them.</p><p>She confirmed that Carnival declined pre-cruise refunds, but after the cruise, De la Cruz said, Carnival would review, on a case-by-case basis, requests from customers who canceled because of &quot;specialized circumstances.&quot; She did not define the circumstances or possible remedies. <br /><br />From Sept. 9 to 11, more than 600 Ecstasy customers canceled, she said.<br /><br />Al Anolik, a San Francisco travel attorney and co-author of &quot;The Frequent Traveler\'s Guide,&quot; said that despite what a ticket contract might say, passengers shouldn\'t have to pay for a cruise if its departure city is under a mandatory evacuation order. Here\'s the logic, he said: If fulfilling your end of the deal may require you to break the law, the contract is canceled.<br /><br /><strong>Lesson 1: </strong>Don\'t count on a refund.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Can I get a refund if the itinerary changes?</strong><br /><br />Unlike many others who canceled their Ecstasy cruise at the last minute, Shanna Sutton of Texas City, Texas, got her money back.<br /><br />Her secret? When she phoned Carnival on departure day, the agent told her the ship would miss its scheduled call on Cozumel, Mexico, and instead call on Veracruz, Mexico. Sutton asked for a refund and got it: $782.96 total for herself and a friend.<br /><br />Carnival\'s brochure says customers may cancel without penalty if a ship\'s itinerary is changed before departure. You must cancel within 24 hours after being notified of the change. <br /><br />Carnival decided to make Ecstasy\'s port switch the morning of departure, De la Cruz said. It notified passengers about the change as they were boarding, without reminding them that they could cancel without penalty, she said.<br /><br />By the time the Hills and the Norses said they figured that out, it was too late.<br /><br /><strong>Lesson 2:</strong> Read the cruise brochure.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Will a &quot;Vacation Guarantee&quot; help?</strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Under this program, Carnival says that if you are not satisfied with your cruise, you can get your money back. But you must notify the ship\'s information desk before arriving at the first port of call and disembark at the first non-U.S. port of call. (Carnival would then pay for your flight back.)<br /><br />By several accounts, the Ecstasy cruise went pretty well until Veracruz, the first port of call, which some cruisers found disappointing, or later, when they learned they wouldn\'t return to Galveston as scheduled. By then it was too late to protest.<br /><br /><strong>Lesson 3:</strong> Absolute guarantees don\'t exist.<br /><br /><strong>What about insurance sold by the cruise line?</strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Many travel insurance polices will reimburse you -- with various restrictions -- if a hurricane affecting your destination interrupts your trip or causes it to be canceled. But not the Cruise Vacation Protection Plan that Carnival offered.<br /><br />Under covered reasons for trip interruption and cancellation, that plan listed a hurricane affecting your home but not your destination.<br /><br />On the sunny side: Because &quot;inclement weather&quot; was covered for trip delays, policy holders who got off the Ecstasy in New Orleans or Houston may be entitled to collect up to $500 for airfare they paid to get home and other costs, according to Carnival and BerkelyCare, the plan\'s administrator. <br /><br /><strong>Lesson 4:</strong> Be wary of insurance sold by your travel supplier.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Can I get a weather-related refund?</strong><br /><br />It\'s logical to expect a cruise line to return your money if the ship\'s departure city is under a hurricane warning. Logical, but in this case wrong.<br /><br />Cruise lines generally decline last-minute refunds. Carnival\'s ticket contract says, &quot;No refunds will be made in the event of \'no shows,\' unused tickets . . . or cancellations received late or after the start of the cruise.&quot; <br /><br />Like the Hills, Chris and Shelly Nors of Waco, Texas, tried to cancel their Ecstasy bookings because of Ike. If the ship sailed, Carnival said, it would keep the couple\'s money, whether they boarded or not.<br /><br />At 9:30 a.m. on departure day, Galveston Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas ordered an immediate, mandatory evacuation of the city. And the National Hurricane Center issued a hurricane warning that included Galveston.<br /><br />Surely Carnival would cancel the cruise now, the Norses figured. But when they called around noon, the company again said the Ecstasy would sail. And when the ship departed that afternoon with 1,694 passengers, the Norses were on it.<br /><br />In interviews and e-mails, Carnival spokeswoman Jennifer de la Cruz said the Galveston port and the U.S. Coast Guard cleared the Ecstasy to sail.<br /><br />She also said that the ship\'s guests were allowed into Galveston. But despite being given several opportunities to do so, she did not say which agency authorized guests to enter the city despite the evacuation order.<br /><br />Carnival sailed because it knew it could safely operate the voyage, De la Cruz said, and it didn\'t want to disrupt its customers\' vacation plans. At the time, she added, the company was &quot;optimistic&quot; that the ship would be able to return to Galveston.</p><p><strong>What about traditional travel insurance?<br /><br /></strong>&quot;We didn\'t buy travel insurance,&quot; Mark Hill said. &quot;We could have kicked ourselves now.&quot;<br /><br />But the truth is, it\'s unlikely that such insurance would have solved all the Hills\' problems.<br /><br />&quot;The policies are killers,&quot; Anolik said, because they are full of exceptions and complicated definitions. <br /><br />For instance, travel insurers typically don\'t cover vehicle losses.<br /><br />Some travel policies require that a hurricane make your destination uninhabitable, defined in various ways, for you to collect. Or they may require that it cause &quot;complete cessation&quot; of travel services for 24 hours. Some cover evacuations, but some don\'t. How these provisions apply to cruises is not always clear. <br /><br />Representatives for three insurance companies I interviewed agreed on one point: Their policies won\'t pay for trip cancellation solely because your destination is under a hurricane warning and you\'re worried it may affect your trip.<br /><br />&quot;Insurance does not cover your state of mind,&quot; said Dan McGinnity, spokesman for AIG Travel Guard in Stevens Point, Wis. &quot;It covers events that actually occur, not events that might occur.&quot;<br /><br /><strong>Lesson 5: </strong>Insurance won\'t cover everything.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>What about &quot;cancel-for-any-reason&quot; coverage?</strong><br /><br />This may be offered as a stand-alone policy or an optional addition to a traditional travel policy. Details vary, but it typically allows you to cancel your trip for nearly any reason.<br /><br />It can spare you from haggling with your insurer over definitions. But generally, you won\'t be reimbursed the full cost of your trip; some policies pay as little as 50%. You may not be able to cancel any later than 48 hours before departure, which may be too early for forecasters to predict a hurricane\'s path. And premiums are often higher. <br /><br /><strong>Lesson 6:</strong> The smaller you want to make your risk, the greater your cost.<br /><br /><strong>Will a credit card save me?</strong><br /><br />If you buy a product or service with a credit card and fail to receive what you paid for, you are entitled, under the federal Fair Credit Billing Act, to ask the card issuer to remove the charge from your bill. Other means of payment don\'t have this protection. It\'s not foolproof, but many travelers get refunds this way. <br /><br /><strong>Lesson 7:</strong> Sometimes it makes sense to charge it.<br /><br />All this brings me back to my original suggestion: Be wary of sailing during hurricane season, no matter how good the deals.<br /><br />As I was reporting this story, a news release touting fall discounts arrived from Carnival. It said, in part: <br /><br />&quot;In addition to offering excellent value, October is the perfect time to book a \'Fun Ship\' cruise for some much-needed R&amp;R as it is positioned perfectly between the busy summer period and the often-hectic holiday season.&quot; The first cruises mentioned: trips to the Caribbean and Mexico.<br /><br />The last time I looked at my calendar, October was still part of hurricane season.</p>','2013-01-13 09:35:17',412,1,1,NULL,NULL,584,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,1,0,0,'A Carnival cruise in the midst of Ike leaves some passengers stranded. It&#039;s a warning to consider the timing, its inherent risks and possible solutions.',NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(896,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Diana Lambdin Meyer, Special to the Kansas City Star','Cruise lines offer more options','420_boxingsea_standalone_prod_affiliate_81_704970451.jpg','2008-10-07 01:06:00','<p><table border=\"0\"><tbody></tbody></table>Envision the revolutionary Patrick Henry standing up and declaring, &ldquo;Give me liberty or give me death.&rdquo;</p><p>Or Peter Finch as anchorman Howard Beale in the 1976 movie &ldquo;Network&rdquo; bellowing, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m as mad as hell and I&rsquo;m not going to take this anymore.&rdquo;</p><p>Even little Oliver Twist, piping up, &ldquo;Please, sir. May I have some more?&rdquo;</p><p>Now imagine these rabble-rousers taking a cruise, together with 2,000 other make-me-happy passengers.</p><p>The 91.5 million people who have boarded cruise ships in the last 10 years, according to the Cruise Line Industry Association, have propelled an explosion in choices, activities and destinations that has redefined the industry. Ships are serving up enough creativity, passion and detail to please even the &ldquo;Odd Couple&rsquo;s&rdquo; finicky Felix Unger.</p><p>&ldquo;Twenty years ago most ships had little more to do onboard than eat, sunbathe and a modest show and dancing at night,&rdquo; said Paul Motter, editor of the online guide Cruisemates (www.cruisemates .com). &ldquo;Modern ships have attractions for every age group and almost every interest and have become a destination in themselves.&rdquo;</p><p>Consider these 10 things the industry has offered or developed in the last few years to keep passengers coming back &mdash; and bringing their friends and family.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">1. Expanded dining choices</span></strong></p><p>Norwegian Cruise Line is considered the pioneer in dealing with the Patrick Henrys on their passenger list.</p><p>By demanding liberty from regimented dining arrangements, Norwegian passengers set in motion an upheaval of services and amenities that continues to resonate throughout the industry, said Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor of Cruise Critic, a Web site ( <a href=\"http://www.cruisecritic.com/\">www.cruisecritic.com</a>) that reviews ships and reports on industry news.</p><p>&ldquo;The introduction of flexible dining in 2000 was like throwing a pebble in a lake,&rdquo; Spencer Brown said. &ldquo;The new NCL ships offer up to 13 dining rooms with seating anytime, and that significantly impacts when evening entertainment begins and really just about everything else on the ship.&rdquo;</p><p>At least six other lines have followed Norwegian&rsquo;s lead.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">2. Ports of call</span></strong></p><p>Cruise ports have materialized in almost every North American city that has access to a large body of water, including Miami; Charleston, S.C.; Boston; Tampa, Fla.; Galveston, Texas; San Diego; and Vancouver, British Columbia.</p><p>&ldquo;You can depart from anywhere anymore and disembark anywhere,&rdquo; said Susie VanderKamp, co-owner of the Cruise Connection travel agency in Kansas City, North.</p><p>VanderKamp recently worked with a couple who she thinks embody the power and possibilities of expanded ports of call. They drove to the Northeast to visit family and historic sites, then left from Boston on a cruise that will take them to one of the most popular new destinations &mdash; Iceland.</p><p>&ldquo;Three or four years ago, no one went to Iceland, and no one went to Alaska in the winter, but cruises are going to the most interesting places at the most interesting times of the year,&rdquo; VanderKamp said.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">3. Epic itineraries</span></strong></p><p>Although CLIA reports that the average length of a cruise is 7.1 days, the industry organization also notes a growing demand in round-the-world itineraries. Seven CLIA-member lines offer at least 10 voyages that circle the globe. At least half of those passengers stay the full length of the cruise, according to CLIA.</p><p>Cunard, the first line to offer world cruises, in 1922, now offers a 99-day &ldquo;Exploration of Distant Horizons&rdquo; cruise on the Queen Victoria. It is available in four segments, the most popular being a 31-day stretch from Singapore to New York.</p><p>Holland America will offer its first world cruise in 2009, a 114-day journey that will explore the east coast of Africa and cross the equator and international dateline simultaneously.</p><p>Other lines with world cruises include SilverSea, Crystal Cruises, Princess, Regent Seven Seas and Hurtigruten, whose longitudinal cruise departs Reykjavik, Iceland, and loops Antarctica in 67 days.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">4. Exotic excursions</span></strong></p><p>&ldquo;Shore excursions have become so much better over the years to appeal to all ages and activity levels,&rdquo; said Mimi Comfort, owner of Cruise Holidays in Kansas City, North. &ldquo;You can do <em>anything</em>.&rdquo;</p><p>Carnival Cruise Lines reports an average 16 percent growth in shore excursion participation in recent years. The company offers almost 2,000 excursion choices in 114 ports. One of its more popular excursions: training with the Jamaican bobsled team.</p><p>Seabourn passengers can dine above the Arctic Circle with the Lapp people; AMA Waterways guests can have dinner with families in Russia; Holland America offers sightseeing flights over Antarctica.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">5. Entertainment</span></strong></p><p>Laser effects, pyrotechnics, surround sound and computer-aided graphics are among advancements in technology that now fully immerse a shipboard audience.</p><p>&ldquo;Talent is still an important factor, but when you add in the technology, you get a level of entertainment that just wasn&rsquo;t possible on ships just 10 years ago,&rdquo; said Motter of Cruisemates.</p><p>Bigger ships allow for more authentic theater experiences. Scenery fly systems, trapdoors and turntables on stages are becoming more common. When Royal Caribbean launches its Oasis of the Seas in December 2009, its AquaTheater will have water-based productions shows reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil&rsquo;s &ldquo;O&rdquo; in Las Vegas.</p><p>&ldquo;Cruise lines are clearly gearing to younger people and more professional entertainers,&rdquo; Motter said, citing examples such as Norwegian&rsquo;s Second City theater and Royal Caribbean&rsquo;s &ldquo;Beatlemania.&rdquo;</p><p>He warns that cover charges may be implemented for entertainment options.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">6. Technology</span></strong></p><p>Advancements in technology also appeal to the road warrior, the workaholic and the computer nerd.</p><p>Nearly all cruise ships now are equipped with satellite services that allow passengers to use their personal cell phones, although the cost, determined by individual providers, often ranges from $4 to $10 a minute.</p><p>Internet cafes continue to evolve, and WiFi is also offered for computer users throughout many new ships. However, many cruise experts advise passengers to consider calling cards and Internet cafes in ports of call as more cost-effective.</p><p>On the Balmoral, one of five ships in the Fred Olsen line, passengers can use interactive TV to place orders for breakfast room service, wine with dinner or duty-free shopping and to order a film or book excursions.</p><p><strong><span class=\"subhead\">7. Enrichment</span></strong></p><p>Many cruisers want to learn more about where they are going, why other cultures do what they do or even how to do new things at home.</p><p>Cunard&rsquo;s response is Illuminations, the only planetarium at sea with programming by the Museum of Natural History, and Insights, a series of lectures by authors, scientists, artists and politicians.</p><p>Holland America, lauded for culinary programming through a partnership with <em>Food &amp; Wine </em>magazine, has partnered with Microsoft to offer workshops in digital photography, editing, blogging and digital scrapbooking.</p>','2013-01-21 09:48:14',197,1,1,NULL,NULL,585,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),(897,4,1,'vivvo@localhost','Holland America Line','Holland America Line Launches Explorations Team','hal12_312841029.jpg','2008-10-07 01:09:00','<p>SEATTLE, Oct. 2 /CNW/ -- With today\'s traveler looking for more enriching<br />experiences and activities, Holland America Line has broadened its onboard<br />programming with the new Explorations Team.&nbsp; As part of the premium line\'s<br />ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Team will be<br />comprised of event staff with specific, niche expertise ranging from<br />technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of &quot;edutainment&quot; programs.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be a cohesive team<br />dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard<br />party planner, a travel guide, a &quot;techspert&quot; and dance directors. On cruises<br />lasting 12 days or more, a book club leader will also join the team.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &quot;People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs,<br />events and activities they can personally connect with,&quot; said Richard D.</p><p><br />Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs.<br />&quot;Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to<br />learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the<br />choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that<br />choice.&quot;</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the<br />Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the innovative program which<br />already brings more than 70 culinary experts on board each year for cooking<br />demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in<br />the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for<br />more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and<br />table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line\'s beloved towel<br />animals.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The travel guide will host lectures and be a one-stop source for<br />information on the various ports of call. A destination expert, the travel<br />guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a<br />one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the<br />destination\'s history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on ms<br />Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The &quot;techspert&quot; will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of<br />technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos,<br />arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a<br />movie. Classes and personal workshops will be available throughout the cruise.<br />Novices can learn about Web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Those<br />with more experience will enjoy the opportunity to learn new shortcuts and<br />techniques.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dance directors show guests how to dance the night away. Classes are<br />available throughout each cruise. Whether teaching line dancing in the Crow\'s<br />Nest or ballroom dancing in the Ocean Bar, the dance instructors will ensure<br />guests of all experience levels enjoy themselves while learning new steps.<br />After class, guests will find dance events on the ship\'s activity schedule<br />where they may show off their new moves.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host lively<br />book discussions in the Explorations Cafe powered by the New York Times. Book<br />titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests interested in joining<br />the discussion will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader<br />will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen<br />will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For<br />example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be &quot;In a Sunburned Country&quot;<br />by Bill Bryson or in Asia, &quot;Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan.&quot;</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With the addition of this new team of experts, Holland America Line<br />guests now will have even more memories to take home from their cruise plus<br />the personal experiences that have enriched their lives to share with family<br />and friends. The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented<br />fleet-wide.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings<br />the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line\'s ms Statendam, ms<br />Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive<br />dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be<br />completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry-dock, ships will expand<br />the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a<br />new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas -- Martinis, Champagne<br />and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and<br />additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also<br />introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower<br />Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will<br />offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has<br />committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines<br />premium cruising.</p><p><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For a cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional<br />travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit<br />http://www.hollandamerica.com.</p>','2013-01-21 17:17:09',188,1,1,NULL,NULL,586,'1','1','1',NULL,NULL,0,0,0,NULL,NULL,NULL,'0000-00-00 00:00:00',0),