Royal Caribbean

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise Compass

March 11, 2022

Curious about what the daily activities look like on largest cruise ship in the world?

Click through the slideshow to see Day 1 -7 of the Cruise Compass from the Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas! These cruise compasses are specific for the Western Caribbean sailings.

Photo Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Day 1 - FORT LAUDERDALE

Day 2 - AT SEA

Day 3- Roatan, Honduras

Day 4- San Juan, Puerto Rico

Day 5- Costa Maya

Day 6 - At Sea- Coming Soon!

Day 7 - Perfect Day at Coco Cay- Coming Soon!

Check out the kids activities:

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All aboard the newest and BOLDEST cruise ship! We are onboard Royal Caribbean's, Wonder of the Seas, for the inaugural sailing! Explore this Junior Suite balcony stateroom tour on the starboard, mid-ship. Let me know if you would like to stay in-stateroom similar to this when you cruise on the Wonder of the Seas! See if you can find some of the lovely changes or advancements that have been made to this room?

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More Wonder of the Seas

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Royal Caribbean

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise Compass

March 4, 2022

Curious about what the daily activities look like on largest cruise ship in the world for the kiddos?

Click through the slideshow to see Day 1-6 of the Cruise for adventure ocean and social 100, aboard Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas! Each day will be uploaded as they come out.

Photo Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Adventure Ocean

SOCIAL (DAYS 1 - 6)

CHECK OUT THE FULL PLANNER:

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All aboard the newest and BOLDEST cruise ship! We are onboard Royal Caribbean's, Wonder of the Seas, for the inaugural sailing! Explore this oceanview balcony on the port, forward side of the ship. Let me know if you would like to stay in-stateroom similar to this when you cruise on the Wonder of the Seas! See if you can find some of the lovely changes or advancements that have been made to this room?

---

More Wonder of the Seas

More Stateroom Tours

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Royal Caribbean

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise Compass

March 4, 2022

Curious about what the daily activities look like on largest cruise ship in the world?

Click through the slideshow to see Day 1 -4 of the Cruise Compass from the Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas! Each day will be uploaded as they come out.

Photo Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Day 1 - FORT LAUDERDALE

Day 2 - AT SEA

Day 3- LABADEE

Day 4- Puerto Rico

Day 5- at day

Day 6 - Nassau, Bahamas

Day 7 - Coco Cay

Check out the kids activities:

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE GIVES FIRST LOOK AT CARNIVAL CELEBRATION 

Line Reveals Details on Four Zones Including Celebration Central

MIAMI, Feb. 23, 2022 – In conjunction with the kickoff of the company’s 50th birthday festivities, Carnival Cruise Line is giving guests a first look at Carnival Celebration, sister ship to the incredibly popular Mardi Gras, that will debut in Miami this November, revealing details on four of its six zones including Celebration Central.

On a Carnival cruise, guests’ vacations start in the atrium, and on Carnival Celebration, that is in Celebration Central. Spanning Decks 6, 7 and 8, Celebration Central is an update to the fabulous starboard side atrium that debuted on Mardi Gras, designed as the heart of the ship’s celebratory spirit with a whole new look and the feeling of a festive party woven throughout.

Celebration Central will also feature the awe-inspiring, three-deck-high atrium that guests are quickly getting to know and love, but with a ceiling that appears as a burst of a confetti canon made of approximately 1,400 color-changing lighting fixtures that will transform from day to night. Functional as it is eye-catching, the space will include 3,000-square-foot floor-to-ceiling windows on the side of the ship that will change into 16 individually controlled, six- by 14-foot LED screens to work hand in hand with the ever-changing entertainment options, including live music, special effects, aerial acrobatic performances, and high-energy shows.

Introducing nods to Carnival’s Fun Ship history, guests will spot pieces from former Carnival ships that will be repurposed to blend with the ship’s modern decor throughout Celebration Central and beyond. For example, in the Aquaria Bar, ocean-themed glass murals from Carnival Victory by Italian artist Luciano Vistosi will be incorporated into a striking two-deck-high decorative wall behind the bar to create an aquarium-like effect, inspiring the name. And the Tropicale Bar is named after Carnival’s first ship to sport the line’s iconic funnel.

“From a design perspective, we are incorporating elements from our former ships, paying homage to the history of Carnival, and also showcasing Carnival Celebration as a modern, innovative and forward-looking vessel,” said Ben Clement, senior vice president of new builds, refurbishment and product innovation. “While similar to Mardi Gras with a plethora of options for dining, entertainment and relaxation, Celebration will have her own personality, one that celebrates all things Carnival, intertwining where we have been with where we are going.”

Celebration Central will also include food and beverage options, such as JavaBlue Café, Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, and feel-good entertainment such as Piano Bar 88 and The Punchliner Comedy Club.

The Ultimate Playground

After such an incredible response from guests on Mardi Gras, the centerpiece of Carnival Celebration’s Ultimate Playground (Decks 18-20 Aft) will be BOLT, The Ultimate Sea Coaster, soon to be the second roller coaster at sea, recognized by Popular Science with a “Best of What’s New” award. Guests can expect the thrills they’ve raved about as all-electric, motorcycle-inspired vehicles race along an 800-foot-long track 187 feet above the sea achieving speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.

Reaching a very exciting milestone, Mauer Rides, the manufacturer of the groundbreaking top-deck attraction, has fully assembled BOLT on land and is currently conducting initial shoreside unmanned test runs in Munich, Germany. BOLT will soon be reassembled and installed aboard Carnival Celebration. To see a video, click here https://youtu.be/rhqp444r7E8.

Designed for fun for all-ages, the zone will also be home to the WaterWorks aqua park and SportSquare featuring a mini-golf course, full-court basketball and an exhilarating ropes course.

Summer Landing and Lido

Carnival Celebration’s Summer Landing zone (Deck 8 Aft) will continue to serve as the greatest chill spot at sea with Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, offering smoked-on-board favorites created by Guy Fieri and an assortment of Carnival’s ParchedPig craft beers brewed on site, in addition to pools and whirlpools, The Watering Hole poolside bar, and the Heroes Tribute Lounge honoring military personnel.

And the poolside zone, Lido (Decks 16-17 Aft), will feature all of the delicious and fun experiences from Mardi Gras including the two-level RedFrog Tiki Bar designed to transport guests to a South Pacific paradise, Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken restaurant, guest-favorite Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina, with offerings perfect for any tastebud, any time.

Carnival Celebration will be the second Carnival ship to be powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation’s green cruising platform. The ship will debut in November from the redesigned state-of-the-art Terminal F at PortMiami, the line’s third terminal at the port and its largest in South Florida.

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

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

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Two Ships to Leave Fleet in 2022 as Carnival Prepares for Its Two Additional Excel Class Ships and Costa Magica Transfer to Carnival Fleet 

              MIAMI, Feb. 3, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests and travel advisors of changes to its fleet deployment plan, including two ships leaving the Carnival fleet, as it continues to implement its successful restart of guest operations in the U.S. and adjusts for the continued uncertainty of cruising in Australia.

              Carnival had previously shared that Carnival Sensation’s restart was delayed, and that Carnival Ecstasy would move from Jacksonville, Fla. to Mobile, Ala. to operate what were previously planned as the Carnival Sensation itineraries, effective with the Mar. 5, 2022 restart.  In addition, Carnival said that Carnival Spirit would go to Jacksonville to take over the Mar. 7, 2022 restart in Jacksonville, operating the previously scheduled Carnival Ecstasy itineraries.

Carnival is now announcing the following updates:

Jacksonville: As previously announced, Carnival Spirit will replace Carnival Ecstasy in Jacksonville. While that will happen for departures from Mar. 7 through Apr. 9, 2022, the next two cruises are being cancelled, and then a new ship will be assigned from the Carnival fleet to Jacksonville for the Ecstasy itineraries, effective Apr. 23, 2022. That announcement will be made shortly.

Mobile: Carnival Ecstasy will reposition to Mobile for departures from Mar. 5 through Oct. 10, 2022. Cruises from Mobile that were planned for Carnival Sensation from Oct. 15, 2022 through Sep. 30, 2023 have been cancelled. At a later date, Carnival will be announcing a new operating plan for Mobile cruises.

Australia: Carnival is cancelling planned operations of Carnival Splendor from Jun. 10, 2022 through Sep. 26, 2022, and of Carnival Spirit from Jun. 5, 2022 to Oct. 5, 2023. Details for a two-ship return to Australia will be announced when they are confirmed.

As part of this deployment plan, Carnival Sensation will not restart guest operations and Carnival Ecstasy’s last cruise in guest operations will be the Oct. 10, 2022 departure from Mobile and both ships will leave the Carnival fleet. 

“Our guests have remained passionate and supportive throughout the restart and 2022 gives us plenty of reasons for enthusiasm and excitement as we reach full operations in the U.S., prepare for our 50th birthday celebration, and await the arrival of Carnival Celebration this fall,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.  “Our very loyal guests, our vibrant homeport strategy and our fleet of popular ships are strengths to our advantage as we adapt to changing opportunities and circumstances.”

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Over the past year, it has been nothing short of magical to see the excitement build as each new detail about the Disney Wish is revealed. Our cast and crew, as well as our partners at the Meyer Werft shipyard, have poured their hearts into bringing this magnificent new ship to life.

While we are all eagerly awaiting the ship’s debut, today we must share that our anticipation will unfortunately have to extend a bit longer than initially planned. The shipyard has notified us that despite their very best efforts, they will need more time to finish our ship due in part to the pandemic and particularly the arrival of the Omicron variant in Germany at a critical point in the process.

As a result, we are left with no other choice than to delay our maiden voyage until July 14, 2022, which will regrettably affect your sailing. We apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience we know this will cause. And we assure you we will do all we can to help you adjust your family’s vacation plans.

Since you were originally booked on one of the affected sailings, we would like to extend a 50 percent discount on a future cruise departing by December 31, 2023. To provide this, any funds currently applied to your reservation must be held as a future cruise credit. This credit will be automatically applied to your account in the coming days and can be used as a payment option when your travel advisor books your new reservation. Alternatively, you can request a full refund.* Please contact your travel advisor to assist with any changes. Disney Wish itineraries will be available for booking beginning February 8.

In the meantime, we encourage you to review a special message from Thomas Mazloum, president of Disney Cruise Line.

We have never been more optimistic about the future and cannot wait to welcome guests aboard the Disney Wish. The enchanting new ship will be a celebration of Disney’s rich legacy of storytelling, bringing to life the fantastical worlds and beloved characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars adventures like never before.

Thank you for choosing Disney Cruise Line – and thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to complete construction of the Disney Wish and ultimately deliver a uniquely magical cruise experience for you and your family.

Sincerely,

The Cast and Crew
Disney Cruise Line

*The 50 percent discount is non-transferable, non-refundable, has no cash value, and is applied per person to be used on a sailing departing on or before December 31, 2023. Guests are responsible for any balance due after the discount has been applied.

**The Future Cruise Credit (FCC) is equal to 100% of the guest funds applied to your reservation at the time of cancellation. The FCC is only valid for sailings departing on or before December 31, 2023. Standard prevailing rates apply and Guests are responsible for any balance due after the FCC has been applied. If you end up not being able to use your FCC, you will be eligible for a refund. Prior to the start of your earliest sailing where your Future Cruise Credit has been applied, any unused Future Cruise Credit will be automatically converted to an Onboard Credit. Standard cancellation policies and terms and conditions apply to both future cruise credits and discounts on all future sailings. Alternatively, if you request a refund prior to your next sailing, you forfeit your 50% Future Cruise Discount. 

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The Leading Cruise Line Takes Delivery of Wonder of the Seas, the Newest, Most Innovative Ship

January 2022 – Wonder of the Seas has officially joined Royal Caribbean International’s award-winning lineup of ships. The next of the revolutionary Oasis Class, the world’s newest wonder debuts the ultimate combination of new and returning adventures for all ages on March 4, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, before sailing to the Mediterranean in May.

MIAMI, Jan. 27, 2022 – Adventures aboard the world’s newest wonder are on the horizon for vacationers of all ages. Today, Royal Caribbean International took delivery of Wonder of the Seas, the next highly anticipated and innovative ship in the cruise line’s award-winning lineup. Marking the completion of three years of construction, a traditional flag-changing ceremony took place in Marseille, France, with shipyard partner Chantiers de l’Atlantique. Wonder will make its official debut in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 4, to begin sailing 7-night cruises to the Caribbean before heading to Barcelona, Spain; and Rome to offer summer adventures in the Mediterranean.

Welcoming Wonder to the Royal Caribbean family was Royal Caribbean Group Chairman Richard Fain, Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley, and Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France.

“Wonder of the Seas will energize cruising in a bolder and bigger way. Adding this ship to our already best-in-class fleet elevates the company in continuing to lead the industry with new features and innovation,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “This is one more way that we’re delivering world-class and memorable vacations, responsibly, to guests around the world.”

“Taking delivery of Wonder of the Seas is the culmination of 30 months of ingenuity and partnership across more than 2,000 committed crew members and workers who are among the best at what they do,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Along with taking the revolutionary Oasis Class ships to a new level of wonder, innovation and adventure, Wonder sets the stage for the spring and summer vacations families and all travelers alike are looking forward to in the new year. The combination of brand-new features and favorites that span thrills, entertainment, dining and nightlife is unparalleled, and it’s what will make our latest and most innovative ship the world’s newest wonder and the ultimate vacation in the Caribbean and Europe.”

“Wonder of the Seas represents a new step forward in the Oasis Class ships. Our teams have worked under difficult conditions but in a very united way to finally make major changes that enhanced the ship performance,” said Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique. “Wonder is really an outstanding new ship.”

Highlights to Uncover on Wonder
The fifth in Royal Caribbean’s revolutionary Oasis class of ships, Wonder has adventures across eight unique neighborhoods – a Royal Caribbean first – in store for vacationers of all ages. The young and the young at heart can discover, wonder and make memories in a variety of ways and places designed for family bonding and me time, including:

• Suite Neighborhood – The new, eighth neighborhood offers Royal Suite Class guests an elevated Suite Sun Deck in a new location, complete with a plunge pool, bar and plenty of loungers and nooks to kick back; along with favorites such as Coastal Kitchen, the private restaurant; the Suite Lounge, and the largest Ultimate Family Suite yet to host a family of 10.

• The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar – The new hotspot serves up southern staples and new twists on classics for brunch, dinner and in the late night, including savory johnnycakes, southern fried chicken, crab beignets, and shrimp and grits. Completing the experience is live country music, farmhouse-style decor, a collection of American whiskeys and spiked shakes.

• Wonder Playscape – The underwater-themed play area for kids is a whole new adventure with slides, climbing walls, games, an interactive mural activated by touch and imaginative puzzles.

• The Vue Bar – The happiest of happy hours can be found at the new cantilevered bar that offers panoramic ocean views by day, and after sunset, it shines bright with a colorful mosaic canopy.

• Caribbean Pool Deck – At the center of the Caribbean vibes is The Lime & Coconut, alongside the trio of high-speed waterslides, The Perfect Storm; kids aqua park Splashaway Bay, Casitas, in-pool loungers, live music; and more.

• El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca - The grab-and-go spot for Mexican delights, like made-to-order tacos, burritos and quesadillas, now debuts Cantina Fresca. The dedicated bar serves a selection of "aguas frescas," margaritas and other Mexican staples.

Other returning favorites on board Wonder include Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Royal Caribbean’s latest twist on the Italian trattoria; the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss; the newly designed, dedicated kids and teens spaces at Adventure Ocean, Social100 and The Patio; the FlowRider surf simulator, twin rock-climbing walls, the Central Park neighborhood lined by more than 20,000 real plants; and more.

Related: CULINARY LINEUP ON WONDER OF THE SEAS

Upcoming U.S. and Europe Cruises

• Sailing from Fort Lauderdale – Wonder will set sail to the Caribbean from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale between March and April 2022. The 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries include visits to the cruise line‘s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, The Bahamas; Roatan, Honduras; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

• Sailing from Barcelona and Rome – Starting in May, the new Oasis Class ship charts course for summer vacations in the Mediterranean. The 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises will visit marquee destinations like Naples and Florence, Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Provence, France.

• Sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida – Year-round adventures on Wonder begin in November 2022, when the newest addition to the Royal Caribbean lineup cruises to the Caribbean from Port Canaveral. The destinations vacationers have in store range from Perfect Day at CocoCay and Philipsburg, St. Maarten, to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Cozumel, Mexico.

For more details about Wonder, including sailings now open for booking, visit Royal Caribbean’s website.

About Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International, owned by Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel that features the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionize vacations with itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 19 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.

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Thursday, Jan. 27 is National Chocolate Cake Day. To celebrate, this favorite dessert across the high seas Carnival has shared the recipe!

Luckily, there are 5 ingredients and only 15 minutes are required to make its signature Melting Chocolate Cake, so anyone can replicate the ooey-ness and gooey-ness from home! See Recipe below!

Watch me take a stab at making a warm chocolate melting cake! A truly iconic dessert when cruising with Carnival Cruise Line! I put a new spin on this classic as we are working with the ingredients we have in the kitchen!

Pro Tip: While cruising order your Chocolate Melting Cake with a side of peanut butter!

Here is the full list of ingredients and directions you will need to make a traditional Carnival Chocolate Melting Cake this National Chocolate Cake Day!

Five Simple Ingredients

• 6oz Dark Chocolate

• 6oz Butter

• 4 Eggs

• 3oz Sugar

• 2oz Flour

Five Easy Steps 

1. Melt the chocolate and butter

2. Mix eggs and sugar and whisk for a few minutes, then add flour

3. Add the egg mix to the melted chocolate and mix

4. Pour the mix in a greased mold

5. Bake directly in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes

Bite-size Facts about Chocolate Cake

• The first chocolate cake was made in 1765.

• In the 1800s, an Austrian chef created the modern chocolate cake when he spread jam between two layers of chocolate dough and covered it with chocolate frosting. 

• Until about 1840, chocolate was primarily consumed in liquid form as a drink.

• The first chocolate cake mix was invented in the 1920s by a company called O. Duff and Sons. 

• In 1948, Pillsbury released the first instant chocolate cake mix

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AIDA Cruises Announces the Expansion of its Selection Program

The cruise company AIDA Cruises will further expand its Selection program. The AIDAselection voyages, which are very popular with guests, will be offered and further developed in the future regardless of ship class. Guests can expect a wide selection of special itineraries with authentic travel experiences.

In October 2022, AIDAsol will be the first Sphinx-class ship to embark on a world cruise. Highlights of this 117-day XXL adventure include the circumnavigation of Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope, destinations such as the Avenue of Glaciers, Tierra del Fuego, Mauritius, Cape Town and New Year's Eve in Sydney.

Guests will travel to the Lofoten Islands with AIDAbella, the highlights of the Arctic Circle with AIDAluna, and AIDAblu will offer extraordinary experiences on voyages to Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar. The new offer will be complemented by the voyages of AIDAvita and AIDAaura, which will provide unforgettable Selection moments in the summer of 2022 with their routes to the Scottish Islands or to the archipelago off the Swedish coast, among others.

Each AIDAselection voyage will feature unique highlights. Thanks to exclusive excursions and longer shore stays, guests get to know the country and its people intensively. Experienced guides surprise with real insider tips. Depending on the route, renowned lecturers come on board. Detailed information can be found at www.aida.de/selection.

In addition to further developing the offerings of its existing fleet, AIDA Cruises is investing in state-of-the-art environmental technology for its newbuilds as part of its green cruising strategy.

With the commissioning of AIDAcosma on February 26, 2022, AIDA Cruises will continue its sustainable growth course. It is the second AIDA newbuilding to be powered by low-emission liquefied natural gas (LNG).

AIDA Cruises is also researching the use of emission-neutral fuels and plans to use fuel cells and batteries on AIDA ships for the first time in 2022. In the ports, AIDA is committed to the further development of shore power from renewable energy sources. The ships of the AIDA fleet already use shore power where it is technically possible, or are technically prepared to use shore power.

As part of the realignment of the Selection concept, the ship AIDAmira will leave the fleet by March 2022.

AIDA Cruises is the leading cruise company in Germany and offers voyages to over 250 ports around the world. An AIDA vacation offers guests of all ages a varied on-board program, a variety of culinary delights, premium entertainment, unforgettable shore excursions, numerous sports activities and wellness areas to unwind. The modern fleet currently comprises 12 ships, including the world's first newbuilding operated with innovative, low-emission LNG. With the commissioning of AIDAcosma, the second LNG ship, AIDA Cruises will expand its capacity and range of offerings and continue its sustainable growth course. The long-term goal is emission-neutral ship operation of its entire fleet in 2040. Detailed information on the sustainability course of AIDA Cruises can be found at www.aida.de/aidacares.

Rostock, January 26, 2022

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Most Decorated Chef at Sea to Lead Culinary Arts Innovation at World's Leading International Premium Cruise Line

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Jan. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises, the world's leading international premium cruise line, today announced Chef Rudi Sodamin will become its first head of culinary arts, effective immediately. Sodamin is currently the master chef for Holland America Line, a position he will retain as he takes on his new role as head of culinary arts for Princess.

"Chef Rudi is a hands-on leader with proven ability to motivate teams to achieve new levels of creativity and inspiration," said Jan Swartz, group president serving Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn and P&O Cruises Australia brands. "Princess is already well-known for its strong culinary culture. We are bringing in Chef Rudi to build the kind of excitement and dining experiences that will impress our guests. He is the perfect person to bring an entirely new level of excellence and innovation to our culinary product, environmental dining experience, and service delivery."

Sodamin's Other Restaurant, Rudi’s Seagrill on Mardi Gras; Courtesy of Carnival

Throughout his career, Sodamin has been the driving force behind revolutionizing culinary practices and elevating the perception of fine dining in the cruise industry. An internationally-respected food authority, Sodamin is the most highly-decorated chef working on the world's oceans and is widely considered one of the most innovative, energetic, and influential chefs in the hospitality industry. Among his most recent accomplishments has been the highly successful launch of Rudi's Sel de Mer restaurant onboard three Holland America Line's ships. Carnival Cruise Line was so impressed by the restaurant concept, leadership commissioned Sodamin to create Rudi's Seagrill for its new Excel class ship Mardi Gras, which had its inaugural cruise in August 2021.

Sodamin began his career at the age of 14 with a kitchen apprenticeship in Kurhotel Heilbrunn in Bad Mitterndorf, Austria. By 23, Sodamin was appointed Chef de Cuisine on the luxury line Vistafjord with Norwegian American Cruise Line—he was the youngest chef in the cruise line world to have responsibility on that scale. By 26, he was named corporate executive chef onboard the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2)—again, the youngest chef at sea to attain such a title. Under his stewardship in the 1990s, the food served by the historic Cunard Line was widely acclaimed as the best in the world. After a dozen years at Cunard Line as vice president of food and beverage and corporate executive chef, Sodamin joined Royal Caribbean Cruise Line as director of corporate food and beverage operations and culinary spokesperson. During his tenure, he built an international culinary team from across 50 nations and launched the brand's first test kitchen. Sodamin has continued his impactful tradition of innovation with Holland America Line, instituting the line's first Culinary Council (of which he is Chairman) as well as spearheading the Holland America Line Culinary Art Center. Additionally, Sodamin championed professional development of all Holland America Line culinary staff and led the development and launch of a residential Culinary Training Center in Manilla, the Philippines, working with the Culinary Institute of America to develop curriculum.

Related: Rudi Sodamin's MOST INSTAGRAMABLE RESTAURANT

"I see food as the way to our guests' hearts, and the individuals on the Princess Cruise culinary team bring great heart to what they do and take tremendous pride in their work," said Sodamin "My goal is to grow that pride and lead the culinary workforce to new performance heights through innovative approaches to teamwork and creativity, collaboratively creating new signature interactive dining experiences, and motivating this talented team to new levels of culinary artistry."

Sodamin's Other Restaurant, Rudi’s Seagrill on Mardi Gras; Courtesy of Carnival

John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, particularly appreciates Sodamin's extensive track record for engaging with culinary crews to provide the best possible guest experiences.

"A food experience is about human passion, energy, excitement, and expertise all channeled together to create an emotional, multisensory experience with a true human connection," said Padgett. "Chef Rudi is one of the few who truly understands this and how to consistently create culinary magic for guests, and we are fortunate to be able to tap his extensive know-how and leadership to further elevate the Princess on-board dining experience and inspire our culinary teammates throughout the fleet."

Sodamin's many accolades include a rating of 17 (out of 20) and Three Toques from the prestigious Gault-Millau Guide (1998)—the first for an onboard restaurant and the only such award presented at sea. Sodamin has also authored 14 cookbooks, the most recent of which is Rudi's Sel de Mer: For the Love of Seafood (2021).

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New Excel-Class Ship Sailing From Galveston, Bringing LNG Propulsion, Roller Coaster, Exciting Dining and Entertainment Features in 2023

MIAMI, JAN. 25, 2021 – Carnival Cruise Line's new Carnival Jubilee, the most-anticipated new ship coming to the Port of Galveston – is now accepting reservations for its inaugural 2023 and 2024 schedule. The ship’s first available bookings coincide with National Plan for Vacation Day, a day encouraging consumers to plan their time off from work.
            Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line’s third Excel-class ship featuring all the fun already wowing guests aboard its sister Mardi Gras, will offer seven-day Western Caribbean itineraries from its homeport of Galveston, Texas beginning Nov. 18, 2023 with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, as well as Mahogany Bay (Isla Roatan), Honduras.
            “Since it’s National Plan for Vacation Day, it’s the perfect time to open Carnival Jubilee for sale and give our guests another incredible choice for their cruise vacation with the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful ports in the Western Caribbean,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.   

Related: Menu Options Aboard Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras & Celebration

            Before settling into its new home, Carnival Jubilee will depart on Oct. 30, 2023 from London (Southampton) on an 18-day transatlantic voyage. The ship will visit the Port of Vigo in Spain, Las Palmas and Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Funchal in Portugal and Grand Turk, before arriving in Texas.
            Carnival Jubilee joins sisters Mardi Gras, sailing from Port Canaveral since mid-2021, and Carnival Celebration, which will be based in Miami beginning later this year. The ships run on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) technology platform. Carnival Corp. pioneered the introduction of LNG fuel in the passenger cruise sector as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction.
            Carnival Jubilee will share features from her sister ships that guests know and love, including the award-winning and pulse-racing BOLT roller coaster, expanded dining options, more than 20 different stateroom categories and multiple levels of spacious and luxurious suites, and a stunning, three-deck atrium on the starboard side of the ship that overlooks the ocean and converts to an entertainment venue at night.
            The ship will also have six fun-filled zones like her sisters, two of which will be brand-new concepts to be revealed at a later date. Details on these just-for-Jubilee firsts and other exciting news will be shared over the coming months.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE ADDING MORE EMBARKATION ENHANCEMENTS AS IT COMMITS TO CURRENT PROTOCOLS FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE

              MIAMI, Jan. 21, 2022 – Carnival Cruise Line said today that it will be the largest cruise line to use the VeriFLY solution for its operations from U.S. homeports, with a pilot program that will start this Saturday for guests boarding Mardi Gras at Port Canaveral, in addition to finalizing plans to expand in-terminal testing capabilities for vaccinated guests prior to embarkation, specifically for short itineraries of 3- and 4-day voyages.  Carnival also said it will continue to operate under its current protocols, sailing vaccinated voyages, requiring pre-embarkation testing and following onboard indoor mask requirements until further notice.

              VeriFLY by Daon is now widely used in the airline industry, and it will allow Carnival guests to upload their proof of vaccination and testing information so that it can be verified in advance of the sailing – resulting in a streamlined embarkation experience at the terminal.  Once the pilot at Port Canaveral is complete, Carnival intends to move quickly to implement the solution across its fleet.

Carnival is also working to expand testing capabilities at the terminal for vaccinated guests, specifically for short itineraries (3- and 4-day voyages).  Once implemented, vaccinated guests will be able to meet the pre-cruise testing requirement as part of the embarkation process. Pre-registration will be required, and there will be capacity limits based on the resources of testing providers.  Testing sites to support short itinerary cruises will be phased in and announced by the end of January. 

Carnival also said it intends to follow its Have Fun. Be Safe. operating protocols until further notice.  Guests and travel agents will be receiving more details on operations for February and beyond over the coming days.

On Jan. 13, Carnival restarted operations from another homeport, with Carnival Sunshine returning to its year-round schedule from Charleston, SC.  To date, Carnival has 19 of its 22 U.S.-based ships in guest operation, sailing from eight homeports on the Atlantic, Gulf and West coasts.

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SEATTLE, Jan. 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line is giving consumers the confidence to make travel plans through the summer with the extension of its Flexible Cancellation Plan to Sept. 30, 2022. As part of its "Worry-Free Promise," Holland America Line also will continue to implement best practices for COVID-19 health safety including operating vaccinated cruises and requiring a medically-supervised negative COVID-19 test prior to cruising.

Under the Flexible Cancellation Plan, which was originally offered for cruises departing through the end of April, guests who make a new booking by March 31, 2022, for itineraries that depart on or before Sept. 30, can cancel for any reason and receive a Future Cruise Credit in the amount of any cancellation fees that normally would be incurred. Cancellations must be made up to 30 days before departure. Additionally, final payments for cruises through May 31, 2022, are due at 60 days instead of 75 or 90.

"We want our guests to feel confident when they book a cruise," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. "We've seen so much excitement from guests who have cruised with us since our return. We want everyone who is looking forward to that next adventure to feel comfortable making those plans, and our 'Worry-Free Promise' offers that comfort."

For additional reassurance, Holland America Line's Cancellation Protection Program can be purchased for new cruises or Alaska Cruisetour bookings or existing bookings as long as it is purchased before the date cancellation fees begin to accrue. Offered as a Standard or Platinum plan, guests can cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before cruise departure with Standard and right up to departure under Platinum and receive refunds between 80% to 90% of eligible amounts paid. The cost varies by cruise fare and is nonrefundable. 

Cruise Healthy and Safe with TravelWell
Holland America Line will continue to operate with health and safety protocols for COVID-19 guided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and the company's medical team and health experts.

"By operating our cruises with protocols that are based on the latest advice and guidance of our global experts, we have seen a very low rate of cases, and in almost all instances, with mild or no symptoms," Antorcha said. "We will keep these best practices in place because we know they are working to protect our guests, our crew, our homeports and the communities we visit."  

Those protocols include: 

• Guests must have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and bring proof of vaccination; Holland America Line is strongly encouraging all eligible guests to receive COVID-19 boosters.

• Guests must show proof of a negative viral COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within two days of embarkation.

• Guests are required to wear masks in indoor areas, except when eating or drinking or in their stateroom. Holland America Line is recommending the use of higher-grade masks indoors (surgical or KN95).

• Crew members are vaccinated for COVID-19 and are receiving a booster when eligible; KN95 masks are worn by shipboard teams at all times.

Holland America Line returned to cruising in July 2021 following the industrywide pause with ships in operation in the Caribbean, Mexico and California coast, having successfully completed seasons in Alaska and the Mediterranean. The remaining ships will restart cruising in spring 2022.

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NEW SOUTHERN RESTAURANT AND BAR HEADLINES ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S CULINARY LINEUP ON WONDER OF THE SEAS

The Mason Jar Joins 20-plus Dining Experiences for the New Ship’s Debut in March 2022

MIAMI, Jan. 19, 2022 – Royal Caribbean International takes adventure tableside aboard the world’s newest wonder, Wonder of the Seas, unveiling a lineup of more than 20 dining venues headlined by the debut of The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar. On board the highly anticipated ship that sets sail in March 2022, families and travelers alike also have in store an unmatched variety of flavors that range from Italian classics at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar to American sports bar favorites at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, to New England-inspired dishes at Hooked Seafood.

Where southern comfort food meets Royal Caribbean’s hospitality, The Mason Jar invites guests to share a meal, drinks and memories in a warm, casual setting. Every detail serves up southern charm in the new specialty restaurant, and setting the scene is farmhouse-style and rustic decor, live country music, even a cozy porch decked out with a swing for lounging and a great photo op, and a dedicated bar at the center of it all.

On the menu are southern staples and new twists on classics the whole family can enjoy for brunch, dinner and late-night bites, beginning with freshly baked buttermilk biscuits and jalapeno cornbread. Brunch favorites range from savory johnnycakes topped with barbeque pulled pork to the Sweet-Tooth Cinnamon Roll. At suppertime, highlights include fried green tomatoes, authentic southern fried chicken, crab beignets served with lump crab dip, and shrimp and grits. And for a sweet ending, there’s everything from traditional pies to spiked floats and shakes. Plus, keeping the good times rolling is a robust collection of more than a dozen American whiskeys and a lineup of southern libations, such as the classic mint julep dusted tableside with powdered sugar and the Mississippi Moonlight – made with blackberry moonshine, blackberries and lemonade, and served in a chilled mason jar. Whether at a table for family dinner or at the bar for a bite, a nightcap and live music, The Mason Jar will be a hotspot day and night.

The Mason Jar is just the beginning, with Wonder serving up a variety of restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from across eight signature neighborhoods. From Central Park to the all-new Suite Neighborhood – an Oasis Class first – more dining highlights on the upcoming ship include:

• The Vue – The happiest of happy hours can be found at this new cantilevered bar. The Vue offers panoramic ocean views by day, and after sunset, it shines bright with a colorful mosaic canopy overhead.

• Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – It’s a family-style affair every day at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, the first on an Oasis Class ship. On the menu are freshly made, authentic staples, from hand-tossed pizzas to charcuterie boards and veal meatballs, to an extensive wine list, wine flights and cocktails, like an Aperol Spritz and Negroni.

• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – This popular venue brings guests of all ages together to catch the big game across dozens of big-screen TVs, battle it out in friendly competition at the arcade, and munch on bar fare and ice-cold draft beers.

• El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca – The grab-and-go spot for Mexican delights, like made-to-order tacos, burritos and quesadillas, now debuts a dedicated bar called Cantina Fresca that serves a selection of “aguas frescas,” margaritas and other Mexican staples.

• The Lime & Coconut – This signature pool deck experience is at the center of the Caribbean vibes, with multiple poolside bars and live music.

Vacationers can also enjoy more options, such as Wonderland, Asian-inspired flavors at Izumi, American steakhouse Chops Grille, American seasonal dishes at 150 Central Park, Johnny Rockets, Starbucks, Sugar Beach, and more. Whatever the mood on any given day, Wonder introduces a culinary lineup that caters to guests and their varying palates. Throughout the ship, travelers can also complement their meal with a unique set of Caribbean-inspired drinks, bold and spirited classics, and even zero-proof cocktails as part of Royal Caribbean’s reimagined beverage menus.

Setting sail for the first time in March 2022, Wonder will call three marquee destinations home during its inaugural year: Fort Lauderdale, Florida (March-April); Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (April-October); and Port Canaveral, Florida (year-round, starting November). The new ship’s combination of firsts and favorites will bring to life adventures across thrills, dining, entertainment, technology and more as travelers sail to locales in the eastern and western Caribbean, including Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Cozumel, Mexico. In Europe, vacationers can head to the western Mediterranean and visit must-see places, such as Naples and Florence, Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Provence, France.

For more details about Wonder, including sailings now open for bookings, visit Royal Caribbean’s website. 

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Dive-In Movies on Carnival Cruise Line with Popcorn

Let’s face it sometimes watching a movie just isn’t the same if you don’t have a sweet and savory treat like popcorn! This National Popcorn day we are taking a look across different cruise lines to see where you can indulge in this treat on your next cruise!

Outdoor Entertainment on the Upper Decks

‘Movie’s Under the Stars’ with Princess Cruises, and it’s ‘Dive-In Movies’ with Carnival, but whatever you call it, it’s movie showtime on the top deck!

Up on deck, in the evening many cruise lines pools double as an entertainment venue. Jump in the nearby pool or jacuzzi and watch a jumbo LED screen, play a movie! Or stay dry in a lounge chair and pass the popcorn!

Guests can enjoy a variety of entertainment ranging from movies and live sporting events.

Carnival Cruise Line now charges a nominal fee for deck-side popcorn, which can be charged to your set sail pass.

On the Menu during Disney Cruise Lines‘ Animation Magic’

While cruising on a Disney ship that has Animators Palate, as guests are seated at their tables, they are invited to draw a character of their own using a simple template on their placemat. Then, just before dinner, house lights dim and a sprinkling of pixie dust illuminates the room. Throughout the dinner, a show is illuminated across the screens and guests become “Official Disney Animators.”

On “Animation Magic” evening, the creative cuisine matches the character of this restaurant, with both cold and hot appetizer samplers that give diners a half-dozen delicious small bites to start the meal, such as “Corn Three Ways” with popcorn soup, corn salsa and chicken coated with garlic-cheese popcorn.

In the Theater on Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Ship Theater On Disney Magic

Get ready to watch the newest Disney films while sailing the high seas! A worthy while seaday activity during your next cruise! Skip going to movie theaters right before your cruise if you wanted to see a new Disney flick. Likely it will be playing during your sail and you get to watch while onboard!

It wouldn’t be Disney Popcorn without Popcorn buckets! Just like the Disney theme parks, they have seasonal buckets that become incredible collector’s items. Currently, guests are losing their minds to get a hold of a figment popcorn bucket at Epcot in Walt Disney World.

Best part of grabbing a popcorn bucket on a Disney Cruise? You won’t have to wait in line for 5 hours!

Depending on the size of the popcorn bucket they can range from $8 to $13; refills, $1.50.

Photo Courtesy John Lebel

And a last resort- vending machines!

As seen across Royal Caribbean cruise ships they have “pharma boxes” on some of the larger ships. Below is a vending machine that was spotted on Oasis of the Seas in the teen’s venue of Adventure Ocean. Popcorn can be found for $3 a bag and charged to your SeaPass card.

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COSTA CRUISES BECOMES THE “OFFICIAL CRUISE LINE” OF THE RYDER CUP 2023 AND PRESENTS ITS NEW "CRUISE & GOLF" OFFER

With the aim of establishing itself in the world of golf and its fans, Costa becomes a partner of the most important team tournament in world golf, and opens bookings for a new cruise formula, which allows golf enthusiasts to play at some of the most beautiful golf clubs in the western Mediterranean and to enjoy a holiday on Costa Smeralda, the most innovative ship in the fleet.

Genoa, 17 January 2022 - Costa Cruises, the Italian brand of Costa Group, Europe's leading cruise company, has been named Official Cruise Line of the 2023 Ryder Cup, the most important team competition in golf, which will be held for the first time in Italy, at the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome, from 29 September to 1 October 2023.

In announcing this exclusive partnership, Costa Cruises is also unveiling an amazing new offer designed specifically for golf enthusiasts and their families. The new "Cruise & Golf" formula will allow them to combine a truly unique golfing experience with the relaxation and fun of a Costa cruise on board Costa Smeralda, the most innovative ship in the fleet. By booking "Cruise & Golf", golf enthusiasts will have the opportunity to play at some of the most beautiful clubs in Italy, France and Spain during the cruise itineraries' port calls. In the meantime, families on holiday will be able to enjoy the services on board or explore wonderful places thanks to the excursions organized by the company.

"Our holidays are aimed at providing unique and enriching experiences, and the combination with golf fits perfectly with this philosophy. To achieve our goal of becoming the reference company in the world of golf, we have come up with a special initiative, never seen before. Our partnership with the Ryder Cup 2023, one of the most popular sporting events in the world, will allow us to reach all golf enthusiasts, while with our new "Cruise & Golf" formula we will offer them and their families a holiday that combines the best of golf with the best of cruising" - says Roberto Alberti, SVP & Chief Commercial Officer of Costa Cruises. “Cruise & Golf will also help to promote the golf clubs of the countries visited and, more generally, represents an opportunity to foster local tourism, considering that 6 out of 10 passengers declare they want to return to the places visited during the cruise”.

Guy Kinnings, Ryder Cup Director and Deputy CEO of the European Tour group, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Costa Cruises to the Ryder Cup partnership family, in what is a truly unique partnership. The Ryder Cup is a full entertainment spectacle, so it felt like a natural fit to work with Costa Cruises to build out a fully rounded experience for their customers as the Ryder Cup heads to Italy for the first time”.

Costa Cruises' new "Cruise & Golf" offer will be available from May 2022 on the Costa Smeralda one-week Western Mediterranean cruises, visiting Savona, Marseille, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Palermo, Civitavecchia/Rome. Bookings will be open from February 1st, 2022.  To take advantage of the new offer, guests simply need to book a cruise on Costa Smeralda and then add one of the two golf packages to their booking, which include three or four "Green Fees" respectively for access to some of the most famous and popular golf clubs in the Mediterranean.

Among the selected golf clubs in Italy are "Marco Simone", the official home of the 2023 Ryder Cup; "Golf Nazionale", the technical center of the Italian Golf Federation; "Olgiata Golf", which has hosted the Italian Open several times; "Acquasanta Golf", one of Italy’s oldest golf clubs; the "Golf Club Garlenda", surrounded by ancient olive groves and pine forests in the beautiful western Ligurian Riviera. In Spain, the "Real Club de Golf El Prat", which has hosted the Spanish Open 10 times; the “PGA de Catalunya", ranked number 1 among golf clubs in Spain and among the top four in Europe; the "Son Gual", among the best golf clubs in Continental Europe; "Alcanada", designed by Robert Trent Jones, with a splendid view of the sea; "Arabella Golf" in Mallorca, with its three magnificent courses Son Vida, Son Quint and Son Muntaner. In France, the "Golf d'Aix Marseille", which hosts the most prestigious national tournaments, the "Golf Bastide de la Salette", with spectacular views over the Garlaban mountain chain and Marseille, the "Golf d'aix-en-Provence" and the “Golf Sainte Baume“.The "Marco Simone", the "PGA de Catalunya" and "Alcanada" will be available at an extra price to be added to the package booking.

Costa Cruises' "Cruise & Golf" formula will allow golf enthusiasts to enjoy a real "easy golf" experience. Indeed, in addition to Green Fees, the formula includes a series of special services designed to help guests fully enjoy the golf and cruise experience, with all the comforts. For example, a dedicated transfer from the ship to the golf club and back, priority embarkation and disembarkation at the beginning and end of the cruise, customized transport and storage of golf equipment on board, and a welcome kit in the cabin. In addition, there is a special offer dedicated to golf enthusiasts and their families to enjoy the exceptional variety of restaurants available on Costa Smeralda - including the Archipelago restaurant, offering menus created for Costa by three top chefs, Bruno Barbieri, Hélène Darroze and Ángel León - and to try a range of treatments and services in the “Solemio” onboard spa and beauty salon.

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 CARNIVAL CFO SHAQUILLE O’NEAL GETS MIAMI FUNDERSTRUCK AT MIAMI HEAT GAME

Carnival Cruise Line’s Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal helped fans at the Miami Heat game Saturday night get Funderstruck by giving away a cruise in celebration of his and Carnival’s upcoming 50th birthdays in March.

O’Neal surprised the crowd by taking to the court and asked fans if they were ready to get Funderstruck. He then released parachutes carrying T-shirts and QR codes. One lucky fan also found a gift card with their T-shirt that can be applied for a Carnival cruise of their choice. When scanned, the QR codes also gave fans the chance to opt-in for updates on all of Carnival’s Funderstruck moments to come this year.

Showing some extra love to the port where Carnival first began sailing, the line’s newest Excel-class ship and sister to Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, will debut later this year from PortMiami and coincide with the line’s 50th birthday celebration.

“This will be the most Funderstruck year ever, and who better to spread that message than our very own Chief Fun Officer Shaquille,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Miami is where Carnival first started, so we can’t wait to welcome our newest ship Carnival Celebration to our hometown to help us ring in our big 5-0.”

Built upon Carnival’s brand platform Choose Fun, the line recently introduced an entirely new word and marketing campaign – Funderstruck – to describe the unmistakable feeling uniquely experienced when choosing fun on Carnival.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE RESUMES GUEST OPERATIONS FROM CHARLESTON WITH CARNIVAL SUNSHINE

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 CHARLESTON, Jan. 13, 2022 – Continuing its successful restart, Carnival Cruise Line resumed guest operations today from Charleston, S.C., with Carnival Sunshine. 

To commemorate the special day, the Carnival Sunshine team greeted their first guests on board with a special welcome conveying their excitement in resuming operations from Charleston.  The ship departed today on a four-day cruise to Nassau, Bahamas.

“We have been sailing from Charleston for 12 years, so we are excited to be back offering guests from all over the southeastern U.S. the opportunity to cruise from this beautiful, historic and charming community, all while providing support to the local economy,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. 

Carnival Sunshine is sailing year-round from Charleston, offering a variety of cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

With 19 ships already in guest operations and its remaining three U.S.-based ships scheduled to resume in March, Carnival continues to implement a rigorous set of public health protocols focused on the health, safety and well-being of its guests, crew and the communities it visits.  All Carnival voyages are vaccinated cruises, all guests must show proof of a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours of boarding, masks are worn by all guests and crew in virtually all venues of the ship, as well as other enhanced health and safety measures that can be found on its Have Fun. Be Safe. page on Carnival.com.

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