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Spooky Fun and Merry Magic Await Disney Cruise Line Guests on Halloween and Holiday Cruises in Fall 2024

Halloween on the High Seas

Halloween on the High Seas returns to Disney Cruise Line in mid-September through October 2024. This season of extra-special sailings will bring the fun of Halloween to guests on select cruises across the fleet with a host of added entertainment. Families will dress up and join Disney characters in their Halloween costumes; dance the night away at a spooky celebration on the upper decks; enjoy spinetingling themed food and beverages; and immerse themselves in a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and a magical Pumpkin Tree.

From Port Canaveral, Florida, the Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night Bahamian voyages full of frightful fun, while the Disney Fantasy will offer these special themed cruises with lengths varying from four, six and seven nights. Four- and six-night sailings on board the Disney Fantasy will take families to The Bahamas, while seven-night escapes will transport guests to fan-favorite destinations throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean.

The Disney Magic will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on vacations ranging from three to five nights to tropical destinations in The Bahamas and Caribbean. Select sailings on both the Disney Magic and the Disney Fantasy will include a chance for families to discover fun and relaxation at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination in The Bahamas. Located on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point, this vibrant beach retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.  

Very Merrytime Cruises

From mid-November through December 2024, the Disney Cruise Line fleet will be decked from bow to stern with holiday cheer and entertainment during Very Merrytime Cruises. Holiday magic will be unwrapped for the whole family with joyful holiday décor; favorite characters in their finest festive attire; themed activities that are merry and bright; and celebrations on deck that are full of holiday spirit.

Families who want to spend the most wonderful time of the year with Disney Cruise Line will have opportunities to sail from two home ports in Florida, as well as a selection of cruises from Galveston, Texas.

Short holiday getaways will be offered from both home ports in the Sunshine State, with a selection of three- and four-night Bahamian Very Merrytime voyages on the Disney Wish from Port Canaveral and four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale aboard the Disney Dream.

The Disney Fantasy will also embark a variety of four-night Very Merrytime sailings to The Bahamas, along with longer six- and seven-night itineraries in November and December. Select voyages on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will include a day of fun in the sun along the white sand beaches of Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination at Lighthouse Point during the holiday season. 

Cheerful cruises from Galveston aboard the Disney Magic will range in length from four to six nights, allowing families to celebrate the holiday season together while visiting tropical ports of call throughout the Caribbean. 

Special Sailings to Hawaii and the South Pacific

In addition to the festive themed sailings, Disney Cruise Line guests can experience bucket-list itineraries in late 2024. The Disney Wonder will sail from Vancouver, Canada, to Honolulu, Hawaii, in late September with stops on the islands of Kauai, Maui and Hawaii before arriving in Oahu. From Hawaii, the Disney Wonder will embark on a transpacific voyage to Sydney, Australia, that will take families through the South Pacific to visit once-in-a-lifetime destinations such as Fiji, American Samoa and New Caledonia.

Disney Cruise Line will then set sail on its second season of vacations from Australia and New Zealand, bringing the magic of Disney close to home for local families in the region. 

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VIKING’S NEWEST OCEAN SHIP NAMED BY METROPOLITAN OPERA CHAIRMAN ANN ZIFF 

The 930-Guest Viking Saturn Was Named in the New York Harbor at Manhattan Cruise Terminal 

Los Angeles (June 6, 2023) – Viking® (www.viking.com) today named its newest ocean ship, the Viking Saturn®, with a celebration in New York City. As part of the event, the ship’s ceremonial godmother, Ann Ziff, the esteemed philanthropist and Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera, a longtime Viking cultural partner, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a maritime tradition that dates back thousands of years. The ship will now continue her inaugural season, sailing two new Viking voyages: Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada, between New York City and Reykjavik, and Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer, between Reykjavik and Bergen.

“This is a very proud day for Viking as we name our newest identical ocean ship in New York City, one of the great cultural capitals of the world,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “It is especially fitting that Ann Ziff, Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera—one of the world’s greatest cultural institutions—has honored us by serving as godmother of the Viking Saturn. We thank Ann for her loyalty as a Viking guest, as well as her many impressive contributions to the arts and other important causes.”   

“It is an honor to be godmother of the new Viking Saturn and celebrate this momentous occasion in New York,” said Ann Ziff. “Viking and the Metropolitan Opera share a common goal in creating enriching experiences throughout the world and there is no doubt the Viking Saturn will do just that for her guests.”

In keeping with the naming tradition, during the ceremony Ziff used the steel sword from the Metropolitan Opera’s production of Verdi’s Il Trovatore to cut a ribbon that allowed a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to break on the ship’s hull. The prop sword was originally used by baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky in the role of Count di Luna in David McVicar’s production, which premiered in the 2008-2009 season. Prior to the ribbon cutting, the sword was presented to Ziff by Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon, who is also the godmother of the Viking Mars® and a Viking Longship, the Viking Skadi. 

As part of the ceremony, guests also enjoyed performances from Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter® and Norwegian violinist Tor Jaran Apold. Following a celebratory dinner on board the ship, stars of the Metropolitan Opera—soprano Susanna Phillips, tenor Charles Castronovo, and baritone Quinn Kelsey—treated guests to a performance of opera classics, including selections from Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, Antonín Dvořák’s Rusalka, Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème, as well as a collection of American musical classics from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Jerome Kern and others.

Ann Ziff, Godmother of the Viking Saturn

A dedicated philanthropist focused on the arts, education, culture and environmental conservation, Ann Ziff is Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera and serves on several boards, including the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Sing for Hope, the World Science Festival and the Los Angeles Opera. Passionate about bringing culture and arts into the lives of children in need, she co-founded Smile Train and was a board member at Maloto, an organization that provides education and housing for abused and abandoned girls in Malawi. Ms. Ziff also has an eponymous fine jewelry brand, Tamsen Z, where she designs and creates one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by her love of culture, art and music as well as her travels as a loyal Viking guest.

Viking and the Metropolitan Opera

As one of the world’s foremost cultural institutions and the largest classical music organization in North America, the Metropolitan Opera is home to the most creative and talented singers, conductors, composers, musicians, and artists around the world and has been a Viking cultural partner since 2016. On board Viking’s ocean ships, guests are treated to the Metropolitan Opera’s award-winning Live in HD series, including an exclusive viewing of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. As part of Viking’s continued commitment to support enriching, cultural programming, other premier partnerships and sponsorships include Ballet Sun Valley, BBC, Highclere Castle, Los Angeles Philharmonic, PBS’ MASTERPIECE, RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Oslo’s Munch Museum, TED and many others.

The Viking Saturn

The Viking Saturn is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships, which also includes the Viking Star®, the Viking Sea®, the Viking Sky®, the Viking Orion®, the Viking Jupiter®, the Viking Venus®, the Viking Mars®, and the Viking Neptune®. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options. 

The naming of the Viking Saturn comes as the company continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary and its most successful single month of bookings in January 2023, following recent years of strong growth. Since 2020, Viking has welcomed 17 new ships to its fleet—including eight new Viking Longships on the rivers of Europe; new purpose-built vessels on the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi rivers; four new, identical ocean ships; and two Polar Class expedition vessels. Most recently, Viking was voted “Best Cruise Line” by Food & Wine readers in the publication’s inaugural Global Tastemakers Awards. In March 2023, the company dominated Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Choice Awards, receiving top honors in six categories including “Best Overall Line,” “Best River Line,” and “Best Dining” for its ocean and expedition voyages. Additionally, Viking has been named both the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, making it the first line ever to simultaneously earn #1 in its categories from both publications.

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P&O Cruises is offering more holiday for your money with extra on board spending money and a 10% deposit offer

June 8, 2023 - P&O Cruises is offering more holiday for your money with extra on board spending money and a 10% deposit offer

P&O Cruises is celebrating the start of summer with extra on board spending money on applicable Select Price holidays. The offer is available on selected holidays departing between June 9, 2023 and October 26, 2025 when booked by September 4, 2023.

Holidays booked by this date can also be secured with a 10% deposit on applicable Select Price or Early Saver holidays departing in the same period and is applicable to the first two guests in a cabin.

Example itineraries

Caribbean Transatlantic, 15 nights from £1,699 per person with £430 on board spending money

15-night cruise on Arvia (K506A) from £1,699 per person based on a sea view cabin. Departing Bridgetown, Barbados on March 15, 2025 the price includes outbound flight, full board, meals, entertainment and children’s clubs. Returning to Southampton ports of call are Castries (Saint Lucia), Basseterre (Saint Kitts), St Maarten (Saint Maarten), Tenerife (Spain) and La Coruna (Spain).

Mediterranean fly-cruise, seven nights from £1,249 per person with £160 on board spending money

Seven-night fly-cruise on Azura (A425A) from £1,249 per person based on a sea view cabin. Departing Valletta, Malta on September 26, 2024 the price includes return flights, full board meals, entertainment and children’s clubs. Departing and returning to Valletta ports of call are Ajaccio, Florence/Pisa (from Livorno), Rome (from Civitavecchia) and Naples.

Canary Islands fly-cruise, seven nights from £799 per person with £160 on board spending money

Seven-night fly-cruise on Azura (A330B) from £799 per person based on a sea view cabin. Departing Tenerife on November 18, 2023 the price includes return flights, full board meals, entertainment and children’s clubs. Departing and returning to Tenerife ports of call are Madeira, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

Norway, Iceland and North Cape, 21 nights from £2,999 per person with £430 on board spending money

21-night cruise on Aurora (R415) from £2,999 per person based on a sea view cabin. Departing Southampton on August 2, 2024 the price includes full board meals and entertainment. Returning to Southampton ports of call are Greenock, Grundarfjordur (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Eyjafjordur (Iceland), Honningsvaag (Norway), Alta (Norway), Tromso (Norway), Leknes Lofoten Islands (Norway), Kristiansund (Norway) and Alesund (Norway).

All example prices are based on a Select fare.

The on board spending offer is based on two adults sharing a cabin and is additional to the P&O Cruises Select Price benefit of on-board spending money or car parking or return coach travel. The on board spending offer is not applicable to inside cabins on cruises under 7 nights, inside cabins on World Cruises, Classic Southern Hemisphere Journeys and Exotic fly-cruises, Early Saver fares or other promotional prices.

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MSC CRUISES OFFICIALLY NAMES ITS NEWEST FLAGSHIP, MSC EURIBIA, TONIGHT IN COPENHAGEN – MARKING SIGNIFICANT STEP TOWARD COMPANY’S NET ZERO 2050 PLEDGE

• MSC Euribia is the most energy-efficient cruise ship design ever - powered by LNG and featuring a range of technologies and solutions that minimize impact on the air and marine environment

• Tonight’s traditional maritime ceremony will be attended by distinguished guests, key travel partners and international media

• MSC Euribia to set sail for her inaugural season in Northern Europe, offering guests a wide variety of new and enriching experiences never before seen at sea

 Copenhagen, Denmark – June 8, 2023 – MSC Cruises will welcome its much-anticipated new flagship to the fleet tonight during a Naming Ceremony taking place in Copenhagen. The traditional maritime ceremony will honor traditional maritime heritage and pay tribute to the environmentally advanced MSC Euribia, which is designed to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship ever.

MSC Euribia is MSC Cruises’ second vessel powered by LNG, the cleanest marine fuel currently commercially available at scale. On board, she boasts a range of best-in-class environmental technology, including advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. She has also been designed with the future in mind, allowing her to easily incorporate future innovations in sustainability, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels as soon as they are available at scale.

MSC Euribia is expected to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship design in the world at the time of her launch.[1] During her maiden voyage, MSC Euribia completed a net zero GHG emissions journey from Saint-Nazaire to Copenhagen, benefiting from the emissions reductions allowed by bio-LNG and application of the mass balance approach.

Renowned Danish television host, actress and model Sarah Grünewald will oversee the Naming Ceremony. Joining tonight’s festivities are distinguished guests from around the world, key travel partners and international media, as well as top management from MSC Cruises and its parent company, MSC Group.

Godmother of MSC Cruises’ fleet and globally recognized screen legend Sophia Loren will also be in attendance to officially name the ship, continuing her long-standing and close relationship with MSC Cruises.

The momentous occasion will include live entertainment and speeches combined with the important maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon to break a bottle of champagne over the ship’s bow. Guests will also be treated to a gourmet gala dinner and unforgettable performances, including a spectacular DJ set by Bob Sinclar, internationally acclaimed French DJ and record producer, who will close out the evening.

The special event will give guests a first look at the revolutionary new ship’s cutting-edge design and various world-class guest experiences.

MSC Euribia begins sailing in Northern Europe this summer with 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark to the captivating Norwegian Fjords, including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.

To find out more about MSC Cruises’ Northern Europe itinerary options, please click here.

About MSC Euribia

MSC Euribia is the 22nd vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet, standing 19 decks high and 141 feet wide, with 2,419 cabins and boasting 37,6736 square feet of public space. MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia, who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, furthering the vision of the ship to master the deployment of state-of-the-art technologies to protect and preserve the precious marine ecosystem.

The trailblazing ship is the second LNG-powered vessel in the fleet and the most innovative and environmentally advanced ship to date. She is adorned with an exclusive customized mural titled #SaveTheSea, which is painted on her exterior to celebrate MSC Cruises’ ongoing dedication to the ocean and commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. As a Meraviglia-Plus class ship, MSC Euribia offers an abundance of dynamic guest experiences with innovative features, facilities and enriching entertainment for the whole family.

Key highlights include:

• NEW! Located in the aft of the ship, The Carousel Lounge is reinvented with a new layout, offering even more stunning panoramic ocean views. It allows guests to relax during the day or participate in a range of leisure activities, as well as enjoy a variety of live music every evening including from the Big Band at Sea - one of the largest live music groups sailing the world’s oceans.

• A revolutionary kids’ area will feature 7,534 square feet of interior space entirely dedicated to kids and teenagers. It features seven rooms, each catering to different age groups from ages 0 – 17. For the first time, it will include the NEW! MSC Foundation Lab, offering a brand-new kids area and program of activities dedicated to educating children and teenagers about environmental topics.

• NEW! Guests can choose between 10 dining venues, including five specialty restaurants with the exciting new Le Grill, a stylish French bistro meets steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi & Robatayaki, a mainstay of MSC Cruises that features a Robatayaki for the first time.

• NEW! Experience the artwork, Street. 2023, by renowned British artist Julian Opie in l’Atelier du Voyageur bar. The artwork, commissioned specifically for MSC Euribia, is an expansive 36 x 6 ft purpose-built LED screen featuring walking figures in Opie’s distinctive style.

• An impressive five pools and the ship’s very own coral-themed Ocean Cay AquaPark, one of the largest and most elaborate waterparks at sea, with three water slides for endless fun.

• The 945-seat Delphi Theatre offers world-class live entertainment every evening with a full seven-day program of big-production shows.

• The ship offers 21 bars and lounges with five outdoor and 16 indoor areas to meet the needs and preferences of everyone on board.

• Guests will have the opportunity to explore and connect at Galleria Euribia, the longest LED Dome at sea, with an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment to discover.

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GO ON A CRUISE WITH COSTA AND EXPERIENCE THE EXCITEMENT OF THE RYDER CUP 2023

The Italian company, as the official cruise line of the Ryder Cup 2023, is offering a unique opportunity to watch the most important team tournament in world golf, which will be held in Italy for the first time, by booking a cruise onboard the Costa Smeralda or the Costa Toscana, the most innovative ships in the fleet.

Genoa, 8 June 2023 - Costa Cruises, an Italian company and Official Cruise Line of the 2023 Ryder Cup, presents a truly unique opportunity for all golf enthusiasts.

The Ryder Cup, the most important international team competition in world golf, is set to take place in Italy for the first time in its history. From September 25 to October 1, 2023, a selection of the best U.S. players and a selection of the best European players will compete on the course of the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome. The anticipation for this sport event, among the most watched in the world, is sky-high: tickets for the closing days of the tournament, from Friday September 29 to Sunday October 1, are now sold out.

Except for Costa Cruises guests. In fact, by booking a cruise on the Costa Smeralda or Costa Toscana, the most innovative ships in the Costa fleet, guests will also have the possibility to attend the closing rounds of the Ryder Cup 2023.

The offer includes several options for maximum flexibility. The first applies to the two Costa Toscana (Sept. 21 to 28) and Costa Smeralda (Sept. 22 to 29) cruises preceding the Ryder Cup weekend. At the end of the cruise, in the port of Civitavecchia, guests will be able to travel independently to the Marco Simone Golf Club to enjoy the matches scheduled for the final days, the most exciting time in the tournament.  This first option allows guests to enjoy unforgettable experiences on board the two ships - such as the Archipelago Restaurant with menus by great chefs Bruno Barbieri, Hélène Darroze and Ángel León, or the Solemio spa overlooking the sea -, visit magnificent destinations in the Mediterranean (Civitavecchia/Rome, Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona, Cagliari and Naples for Costa Toscana; Civitavecchia/Rome, Savona, Marseille, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and Palermo for Costa Smeralda) and then end the vacation on a high note by attending the Ryder Cup.

Another option to enjoy the Ryder Cup, however, is to purchase any cruise departing aboard Costa Smeralda until 30 November 2023, including the "Cruise & Golf" package, regardless of the date of the cruise. This option is particularly suitable for golf enthusiasts who like to test themselves on the green.  Indeed, the "Cruise & golf" package allows guests to play at some of the most prestigious golf clubs in the Mediterranean during the port calls included in the Costa Smeralda itinerary, choosing up to 4 of the 24 best courses in Italy, France and Spain; while at the same time enjoying a Costa vacation to the fullest.

Costa Cruises' "Cruise & Golf" formula is a true "easy golf" experience, free of worries.  In addition to Green Fees, the formula includes a number of special services for maximum comfort. Among these, dedicated transfers from the ship to the golf club and back, priority embarkation and disembarkation at the beginning and end of the cruise, insurance and onboard storage of golf equipment, and a welcome kit in the cabin. In addition, this option includes a special offer dedicated to golfers and their families to enjoy the exceptional variety of restaurants available on Costa Smeralda and to try a range of selected treatments and services in the "Solemio" spa and beauty salon on board.

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Ciao Bella! Carnival Venezia Offers 'Fun Italian Style' Shopping Experience and Fleet's First Luxury Boutiques

Carnival Cruise Line Partners with Starboard Cruise Services to Deliver Italian-Inspired Retail Offerings and Exclusive Carnival Venezia Collections

MIAMI, June 8, 2023 – Carnival Cruise Line has once again partnered with Starboard Cruise Services to create and launch all-new retail offerings on Carnival Venezia, the newest addition to its fleet, which include an expanded offering of luxury brands and original collections, many making their first appearance to Carnival guests.

Carnival and Starboard, an LVMH Moët Hennessy company and retail curator at sea, worked together to create an elevated shopping experience that enhances the new “Carnival Fun Italian Style” concept for guests sailing on the ship, which begins cruising from its New York City homeport on June 15.

Find New Level of Luxury Aboard Carnival Venezia

• Luxury Boutiques and Brands: Taking inspiration from Italy’s timeless elegance, world-famous shopping and high fashion brands, Carnival Venezia boutiques will feature iconic brands, including:

• Bvlgari, renowned for its sophisticated watches, exquisite fragrances and refined accessories will be among the featured brands.

• The Cartier boutique showcases its signature fragrances, and timeless watch collection and Swiss watchmaker TAG HEUER has a dedicated shop of its high-quality legacy timepieces.

• Guests can embrace “Carnival Fun Italian Style” by discovering the vibrant prints designed by ICaftani and shopping handmade jewelry that combines the centenary tradition of Murano glass and modern design from Lionve.

• Signature vacation scents from Versace, Tom Ford, Love Moschino and Dolce & Gabbana are available, along with classic sunglass designs from Gucci and Fendi.

• Leather Shop: Carnival Venezia’s upscale offerings continue with a dedicated luxury leather shop with unique items from Marc Jacobs’ fashion forward designed accessories and handbags, along with and Emporio Armani’s handbags that embody precise Italian craftsmanship.

• Front Street Watches: At this shop, guests can indulge in classic timepieces from Bremont, Gucci, Longines, Michele and Philip Stein.

• What Goes Around Comes Around: Celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship with a curated selection of the world’s most sought-after pre-loved designer leather handbags and accessories.

Shop Three Distinct and Exclusive ‘Fun Italian Style’ Collections

• Venezia Masquerade Accessories: Capturing the magic of Italy’s Masquerade balls and designed for onboard activations, the collection includes feather boas, fans, hats, t-shirts and home decor.

• Carnival Venezia Racing Stripes Collection: Inspired by the country’s symbolic mode of transport, the Italian scooter, guests can shop apparel, hats, drinkware and luggage tags donning the iconic symbol. 

• Carnival Venezia Inaugural Collection: Infusing bold colors from the Italian flag throughout the collection, the unisex windbreakers, polos, t-shirts, drinkware, totes, and hats are designed to make guests feel stylish at sea.

“We are thrilled to bring the essence of Italy to life with fresh offerings under the newly unveiled ‘Carnival Fun Italian Style’ banner,” said Lisa Bauer, Starboard’s president and CEO. “The vibrant brand assortment aligns perfectly with the Carnival Venezia experience and reflects the fun atmosphere guests expect.”

The new retail offerings compliment the new ‘Fun Italian Style’ experiences across the ship, which celebrates Venice, Italy. It accommodates more than 5,000 guests and will offer 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.

To see sailings currently open for sale on Carnival Venezia, click here.

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Holland America Line Expands ‘Alaska Up Close’ Onboard Programming with New Culinary and Cultural Experiences

New cocktails with authentic glacier ice, fresh fish and wildlife spotting highlight enhanced experience

Image Source, Holland America

Seattle, Wash., June 8, 2023 — With Holland America Line’s “Alaska Up Close,” guests on Alaska cruises are deeply immersed in the local culture with informative onboard programming, sea-to-table dining and award-winning shore excursions. The premium cruise line is introducing new facets of the program throughout the 2023 Alaska season that offer an even more engaging guest experience.

Added to every Alaska cruise, guests will find new localized cuisine, cocktails featuring authentic glacier ice, an Alaska-themed brunch, Huna native presentation and wildlife experts to help guests spot the abundance of indigenous animals from the ship’s deck. The program continues to deliver workshops and lectures, EXC Talks exploring the stories of real Alaskans and dining events featuring the culinary traditions of the region.

“Since launching Alaska Up Close we’ve introduced incredible programming that brings an authentic Alaska experience to our guests like no other cruise line,” said Michael Smith, senior vice president, guest experience and product development. “This season we’re growing the program to embed Alaskan fresh fish and wildlife spotting into the cruise on an even more expansive scale, from new localized cuisine and cocktails to exciting lectures and wildlife viewing. We want our guests to have experiences they can’t find anywhere else.”

A New Way to Experience Glaciers

Four new cocktails feature authentic Alaska glacier ice harvested by state permit among floating glacier bergs in Prince William Sound and prepared to the highest standard under Alaskan authority. Holland America Line is the only cruise line serving glacier ice, giving guests the unique experience of safely tasting real glacier ice from the waters of Alaska. The cocktails with the glacier ice include:

• Juneau Gin & Tonic” features Juneauper Gin that’s produced in Juneau, Alaska.

• “Alaska’s Blue Ice” has De Kuyper Blue Curaçao, X Rum, pineapple juice. Velvet Falernum and Dry Vermouth.

• Blue Iceberg: Juneauper Gin, apricot brandy, Blue Curaçao and lime juice.

• Black & Blue: a choice of Jonnie Walker Black or Jack Daniels Black Label served over glacier ice.

Holland America Line also is serving new hot cocktails during scenic cruising in Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm and Hubbard Glacier:

Glacier Bay Coffee: Baileys Irish Cream and Malibu Coconut Rum.

• Alaska Railroad Coffee: Jameson Irish Whiskey, Kahlua and Cream.

• Gold Rush Coffee: Grand Marnier, Coffee and Hot Chocolate.

• Northern Lights: Crème de Cacao, Kahlua and Brandy.

Alaska Brunch Highlights Local Flavors

Offered once per cruise, all dishes on the new Alaska Brunch menu in the Dining Room have been created with the influence of fresh, local Alaskan and Pacific Northwest ingredients. The selections range from sweet to savory and include Alaskan Blueberry Pancakes, Salmon & Potato Chowder, Wild Forest Mushroom and Tarragon Crepes, Kodiak Steak and Egg Skillet, Crab and Hot Smoked Salmon Cakes, Biscuits with Gravy and Alaskan Reindeer Sausage, and Home Smoked Gulf of Alaska Cod Benny.

A Taste of Alaska in Lido Market

During Alaska cruises, the casual Lido Market features special dishes and theme nights. Guests can enjoy a Salmon Bake dinner and Seafood Boil pop-up dinner on all cruises, and a Gold Rush dinner on 14-plus day cruises

Sustainable Seafood

In 2022, Holland America Line was awarded Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification — making it the first cruise line to achieve this distinguished credential by serving only fresh, certified sustainable and traceable wild Alaska seafood. On any Alaska cruise, the line serves more than 2,000 pounds of Alaska Salmon, 1,000 pounds of Alaska cod, 800 pounds of Alaska halibut, 500 pounds of Alaska rockfish and more.

All menus highlight “Taste Alaska” by calling out region-specific dishes and fresh fish options.

EXC Talks and Presentations Bring Alaska to Life
Holland America Line’s EXC Talks continue to bring each destination to life with captivating storytelling and expert commentary. On Alaska cruises, guests can attend “Ancestral Memories,” “Breaking the Ice Ceiling,” “Pacific Giants,” “The Iditarod” and “We Are Alaska” to learn more about local culture and customs.

New to the EXC programming, Holland America Line is bringing on a Huna Native Interpreter in traditional dress during the stay at Juneau to introduce guests to the history of the Tlingit people with “Native Voices: Stories of the Tlingit People.”

Wildlife Experts and Park Rangers

A new wildlife expert on board helps guests witness the majestic animals found in Alaska. Guests can be on the lookout for humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, moose, sea otters, caribou, black and grizzly bears, Dall’s porpoise and more. The daily program highlights designated times to meet the wildlife expert on deck to go in search of the animals in their natural environment.

Holland America Line also is introducing a Wildlife Spotting Guide that points out the native animals found along the cruise route and includes a map with the best places to spot each species. Between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., all wildlife sightings will be announced so guests may go on deck and enjoy viewing.

During Glacier Bay scenic cruising, Holland America Line continues to bring on a Glacier Bay National Park Ranger for the day to engage with guests and talk about Alaska’s most famous national park.

All cruises on Westerdam roundtrip from Seattle feature a presentation by The Alaska Raptor Center at Sitka. Hosted by the wildlife expert, one of the center’s Avian Care Specialists comes aboard with a raptor (eagle, hawk, owl, etc.) to share insights about Alaska’s majestic birds in the World Stage.

On Deck for A Cause: Alaska’s Parks

For the 2023 Alaska season, Holland America Line is donating proceeds from the “On Deck for a Cause” event aboard ships in the region to Alaska Geographic, the nonprofit education partner of Alaska’s parks, forests, refuges and conservation lands. Called “On Deck for a Cause: Alaska’s Parks,” guests on all Alaska cruises are invited to donate $25 to participate in a noncompetitive 5k fundraising walk aboard every sailing.

Holland America Line has six ships exploring Alaska in 2023 on seven- or 14-day cruises from Seattle, Washington; Vancouver, Canada; and Whittier/Anchorage, Alaska, along with Cruisetours up to 18 days, which combine an overland to Denali National Park and the Yukon plus a cruise.

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Celebrated Entertainer Alan Cumming to Headline Cunard Voyage

Celebrated Entertainer Alan Cumming to Headline Cunard Voyage

VALENCIA, Calif., June 8, 2023 -- Stage and screen star Alan Cumming will join Cunard as part of the luxury cruise line's renowned Insights program on the December 8, 2023 Transatlantic Crossing on flagship ocean liner Queen Mary 2.

photo credit: Josh Going

While sailing on the seven-night voyage from New York to Southampton, England, Cumming will offer a Q&A session with guests, host two screenings, and hold a book signing of his memoir, "Baggage." Alan will be screening the 2022 documentary, My Old School, about the scandal of Brian MacKinnon, a 30-year-old who enrolled in school as a 16-year-old. Cumming appears as an avatar for MacKinnon in the documentary.

"We are thrilled to welcome back Alan Cumming on Queen Mary 2's December 8th Transatlantic Crossing," said Matt Gleaves, VP Commercial, Cunard North America. "Alan's immense talent and captivating presence will be a highlight for guests, giving them the opportunity to learn about his career, creative process, and personal journey, and creating an unforgettable experience during their Crossing."

The multi-talented Cumming has appeared in numerous films and television shows, was nominated for Emmys, SAG Awards and Golden Globes, and is a long-time renowned stage actor both in New York and London. Most famously Alan won a Tony award for his role in Cabaret on Broadway and is best known for his roles in Emma, GoldenEye, Anniversary Party, X2 and The Good Wife. He has his own cabaret club in New York, "Club Cumming," most recently hosted the reality show The Traitors, starred in Schmigadoon!, and continues to perform live around the country. A dedicated humanitarian and activist Cumming devotes much of his energy to promoting LGBTQ and human rights, receiving over forty awards for his humanitarianism and social activism.

Cunard's Insights program showcases fascinating experts from various industries on every voyage, providing guests with an elevated and inspiring experience. The addition of Alan Cumming further demonstrates Cunard's commitment to offering exceptional entertainment and cultural enrichment aboard their ships.

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Disney Cruise Line Earns Port of Vancouver’s Blue Circle Award for Environmental Stewardship

CELEBRATION, Fla. (June 8, 2023) – Disney Cruise Line (DCL) received the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s Blue Circle Award for the 10th consecutive year, recognizing the cruise line’s participation last year in the port’s voluntary EcoAction Program and Energy Action Initiative.

“This award demonstrates our long-standing commitment to operating responsibly and sustainably, especially while sailing in the Pacific Northwest,” said Barry Compagnoni, DCL’s Vice President for Safety, Security and Environmental Policy and Compliance. “By doing our part to reduce emissions, conserve energy and protect the rich biodiversity of the region, we are proud to continue our legacy of taking actions that support a healthier environment.”

One of the primary ways DCL reduces its impact on the environment while sailing in Alaska and Canada is to turn off the ship’s engines and rely on the port’s shoreside electricity grid when available. While ‘plugged in’ to shore power, the ship’s onboard lighting, air conditioning and other guest- and crew-facing systems were able to run nearly emission-free. Specific to Vancouver, where the port’s electric grid is supplied by hydro- and wind power, the Disney Wonder eliminated 99 percent of emissions by using shore power every time it called on Vancouver last year.

Using shore power is just one of many ways that DCL strives to minimize its impact on the environment, in support of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2030.

Among other initiatives, the cruise line continues to invest in low-emission fuels including using ultra-low sulfur fuel on the Magic and Dream classes of ships and liquefied natural gas (LNG) on its newest class of vessels, along with plans to use green methanol on a newly acquired ship that will homeport in Singapore in 2025. In addition, DCL has nearly eliminated all single-use plastics across its fleet by no longer using plastic straws, switching to refillable bath product dispensers in guest staterooms, removing plastic bags from onboard merchandise locations, and replacing plastic water bottles with recyclable aluminum ones.

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KICKSTARTING CHINA'S CRUISE INDUSTRY: BLUE DREAM CRUISES PARTNERS WITH STARBOARD CRUISE SERVICES FOR HISTORICAL POST-COVID SAILING 

Starboard Cruise Services Becomes the First Cruise Retailer to Operate Onboard Retail Services on a Chinese Owned Cruise Ship

MIAMI (June 6, 2023) – Starboard Cruise Services, an LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton company and retail curator at sea, celebrates a milestone partnership with the newest Chinese cruise operator, Blue Dream Cruises. Starboard debuted retail operations in China aboard the first international cruise line sailing in 2006, and its illustrious 17-year presence in the market is reflected in the sophisticated and culturally enriched onboard retail experience that caters to the discerning preferences of Chinese travelers. The collection is a tribute to China’s rich heritage, comprising of a thoughtfully curated selection of global and Asian brands, luxury designers, and treasured mementos that guests can take home to cherish their cruise vacation.

“We are really excited to resume cruising in China and thrilled to start this new journey with Blue Dream Cruises," states Lisa Bauer, Starboard's CEO and President. "With our extensive history and expertise in the market, the refined retail experience is tailored to the Chinese guest seeking unparalleled luxury and unforgettable vacations at sea –making every voyage with Blue Dream Cruises extraordinary."

As of May 26, Blue Dream Star is the first vessel to offer outbound cruises from China since the onset of the pandemic. The diversified onboard shops offer a vast selection of highly sought-after brands and products across beauty and fragrance to watches, fashion, and confectionery categories. Guests can indulge in the world-renowned fashion houses that are beloved by Chinese consumers, including Gucci, Prada, Hugo Boss, Armani, Love Moschino, Ray-Ban and more.

"Blue Dream Cruises is committed to providing our guests with world-renowned cruise experiences. Partnering with Starboard enables us to set a new standard of cruise retailing, ensuring that guests have the ultimate vacation journey at sea,” states Helene Xu, General Manager of Blue Dream Cruises.

Asian-Inspired Retail at its Finest
Guests seeking Asian and international skincare and beauty brands can explore the Beauty and Fragrance Gallery and discover Shiseido, Japanese beauty leader offering revolutionary products in skincare, sun care and makeup, Sulwhasoo, Korean holistic skin care line featuring unique fragrances and smooth textures, and Sisley, French label that produces and distributes high-end skincare products, make-up and fragrances.

Appealing to guests’ interest in collectable timepieces, the Boutique Gallery will boast Swiss watchmakers, such as Longines, one of the world's oldest watchmakers and prized for its ultra-thin watch mechanisms and styles, Tissot, known for developing the first tactile watch 20 years ago and Titoni, one of the few remaining independent family-owned watch companies in Switzerland.  

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Disney Wish Full Ship Tour, 2023 Review & BEST Spots of Disney's Newest Cruise Ship

Welcome to the magical world of Disney aboard the Disney Wish, the newest cruise ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. In this enchanting full-ship tour video, we invite you to join us as we explore every nook and cranny of this incredible vessel.

From bow to stern, we'll take you on a journey through all areas of the ship, showcasing the whimsical design, innovative features, and unforgettable experiences that await you on board. Discover the dazzling restaurants, the luxurious staterooms, the thrilling entertainment venues, and so much more.

From bow to stern, we'll take you on a journey through all areas of the ship, showcasing the whimsical design, innovative features, and unforgettable experiences that await you on board. Discover the dazzling restaurants, the luxurious staterooms, the thrilling entertainment venues, and so much more.

This full ship tour and review is your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of the Disney Wish. Whether you're planning your first Disney cruise or you're a seasoned Disney enthusiast, this video will help you make the most of your upcoming voyage.

Join us as we embark on this unforgettable adventure on the Disney Wish. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button below to stay tuned for more magical content and cruise ship reviews!

0:00 Start

0:35 Chip & Dale Pool

1:21 Adult Only Areas Cove Café

2:30 Quiet Cove

3:25 Main Pool Deck

4:20 Aqua Mouse Water Slide

4:35 Hero Zone

5:25 Toy Story Splash Zone

6:33 The Rose

7:15 Palo Adult Dining Venue

8:00 Enchante

8:50 The Hideout & Teens Club

9:30 Festival of Foods

11:28 Joyful Sweets

12:49 Marceline Market

15:04 Unique Décor Items

16:35 Inside

17:00 How to save money for your cruise

17:35 My favorite Dining restaurant

18:00 Arendelle Frozen Dining Rotations

20:00 Edge 11-14 yrs old

20:43 Luna, Entertainment Hub

21:15 Senses Spa & Fitness Center

22:47 Bibbidi Boutique

23:53 Keg & Compass Pub

24:08 Triton Lounge, Entertainment Hub

24:49 Walt Disney Theater

25:23 World of Marvel, Dining Venue

26:00 Grand Hall

26:23 Slide to Kids Club

26:40 Oceaneer Lab

27:50 Small World Nursery

28:35 Star Wars Cargo Bay, Marvel Super Heros

28:47 Guest Services

28:53 Hyper Space Lounge

29:18 Best Sit-down meal on the ship, 1923

30:05 The Bayou & shopping

31:25 Laundry

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EXPLORA JOURNEYS ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF THE WORLD’S FIRST ROLEX BOUTIQUE AT SEA ON EXPLORA I

Geneva, Switzerland, 5 June 2023: Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, is proud to announce the first-ever Rolex boutique on board a ship. While enjoying the ultimate in luxury travel, guests aboard EXPLORA I will have the opportunity to purchase some of the world's most iconic timepieces by Rolex at a boutique entirely dedicated to the Swiss luxury watchmaker.

The new ‘Rolex at sea mono brand store’ offers travellers an unparalleled shopping experience. Its elegant design aesthetic is an invitation to browse an extensive range of models and styles.

Rolex is internationally recognised for its pre-eminent watchmaking expertise and the unique quality of its craftmanship. The Oyster Perpetual watches, all ‘Superlative Chronometer’ certified for their precision, performance and reliability, are symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. For over a century, Rolex watches have accompanied explorers and achievers around the world, from the top of the highest mountains to the deepest reaches of the ocean.

Michael Ungerer, CEO Explora Journeys, comments: “We are elated to be partnering with Rolex, a like-minded Geneva based Swiss luxury brand that very much shares our values and our long-term sustainable vision. It enables us to offer our discerning travellers the opportunity to purchase Rolex watches while sailing on board EXPLORA I. We believe that this new retail location will be a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their journey experience.”

The new Rolex boutique will be operated by knowledgeable and experienced hosts trained by Rolex. They will offer a curated shopping experience and be available to assist discerning travellers with their purchases while managing the allocation of watches per suite.

The store will open on board EXPLORA I on 17 July 2023, and will be available exclusively to Explora Journeys guest.

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Image Source, Seabourn

SEATTLE, June 6, 2023 -- Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, announced a powerhouse line up of speakers for its Seabourn Conversations program during the summer and fall 2023 seasons. Designed to enlighten, inform and entertain guests, the complimentary onboard enrichment program offers guests the chance to interact with the finest minds in science, history, culture and dining. Scheduled speakers include Apple Co-founder Steve Wozniak; Royal Butler Grant Harrold; former head of MI5, Dame Stella Rimington; Michelin Star Chef Robert Thompson; and more.

The conversations will take place on Seabourn voyages between June and November 2023 and follow several themes from royalty and wine interests to expedition and culture. Each speaker will offer fascinating insights, expert opinions and enlightening conversations while presenting lectures, sharing meals, adventuring ashore, and socializing with guests throughout the voyage.

"Seabourn is known to provide extraordinary experiences for extraordinary people. We are proud to offer a phenomenal lineup of accomplished speakers for our Seabourn Conversations program, creating truly enriching 'Seabourn Moments' for guests while they experience Seabourn's uncompromising luxury and intuitive, genuine service," says Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "Seabourn attracts like-minded, accomplished, and outstanding people. This program lives up to this promise, and we are so delighted to bring onboard these distinguished speakers who are leaders in their respective fields."

Upcoming speakers in the Seabourn Conversations program include the following:

Steve Wozniak, Apple Co-founder
June 11-25, 2023 | Seabourn Ovation roundtrip from Copenhagen
A Silicon Valley icon, technology entrepreneur and philanthropist for more than 40 years, Steve Wozniak has helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple's first line of products the Apple I and II. He also influenced the popular Macintosh. In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc. with Wozniak's Apple I personal computer.

Explorers and adventurers
July 2-16, 2023 | Seabourn Venture roundtrip from Reykjavik
Alison Levine - Seabourn Venture Godmother Alison Levine is a history-making polar explorer and mountaineer. She served as team captain of the first American Women's Everest Expedition and was one of only 20 people to have climbed the highest peak on each continent and skied to the North and South Poles. When not challenging herself outdoors, Levine focuses on training others to become strong leaders. She was a contributing author to the book "Leadership in Dangerous Situations."
Heidemarie M. Stefanyshyn-Piper is a former NASA Astronaut and U.S. Navy Captain, having served in the U.S. Navy for 30 years. Selected as an astronaut by NASA, she is a veteran of two space flights in 2006 and 2008, logging almost 28 days in space where she has completed five spacewalks.
Dr. Beth Healey has worked in extreme and remote environments, including Svalbard, Siberia, Greenland, and the North Pole. As a research M.D. for the European Space Agency, she overwintered in Antarctica at spaceflight analog 'Concordia,' otherwise known as 'White Mars,' where she researched the effects of isolation and extreme environment.

Chef Robert Thompson, Youngest chef to receive a Michelin Star
Aug 1-25, 2023 | Seabourn Quest London to Quebec
Born in Bedfordshire, England, celebrated chef Robert Thompson acquired a love of cooking at just 10 years old. In 2007, Robert became the youngest chef to be awarded a Michelin Star in his own right. He achieved this at Winteringham Fields, England, before earning a star at The Hambrough on the Isle of Wight. Guests will enjoy a live cooking demonstration, experience Robert's Guest Chef dinner menu in the Colonnade and have an opportunity to book a bespoke tasting menu with premium wines. Chef Robert will also be sailing on Seabourn Sojourn June 29 – July 13, 2024 from Lisbon to Dover and Sept. 7 – 21, 2024 roundtrip from Dover.

Dame Stella Rimington, Former Director General MI5
Oct 29 – Nov 5, 2023 | Seabourn Ovation from Barcelona to Rome
Dame Stella Remington is known as the role model for the character "M" played by Dame Judi Dench in the James Bond 007 films. Appointed Director General of MI5 in 1992, she was the first woman to take the post and the first Director General to be publicly named in the Government's new spirit of open-ness. She retired in April 1996. A best-selling thriller writer, she chaired the Judging Panel for the Booker Prize for Fiction in 2012.

Royal Interest Voyage
Nov 5-11, 2023 | Seabourn Encore from Athens, Greece to Tenedos, Turkey
Grand Harrold, Royal Butler- Regarded as a leading UK Etiquette Expert, Royal Commentator, British Entertainer, and Broadcaster, Grant also works with and advises Royals and their households across the globe. A popular Seabourn speaker, Grant will talk about his life as the Royal Butler – and will even host a Royal Etiquette class.

Brian Aris, Celebrity Photographer- Brian has been photographer to the royals for many years, capturing the wedding of Princess Margaret's son David Linley, photographing Majesty the Queen Mother at Clarence House and Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret at Kensington Palace, producing the official portraits of Her Majesty The Queen's 70th birthday, photographing Kate Middleton and more. He has also photographed stars such as Sting, Trudy Styler in Dorset, Bowie, Liza Minelli, David Beckham and more.

Justin Van Breda, Renowned Interior Designer
Nov 5-12, 2023 | Seabourn Ovation from Rome to Barcelona
Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Justin Van Breda was educated in English and Politics at Stellenbosch University before turning toward the creative world of design. He studied at Design Time School of Interior Design in Cape Town before venturing to London on what was going to be a year out. In early 1999 he started working for Nicky Haslam at NH Design and within 9 months was made Creative Director. During late 2001, he returned to South Africa to curate his first furniture collection, pieces of which still form the backbone of the designs. Still working closely with Africa, Justin's outreach and workshop programs are very close to his heart, and he has a great appreciation for the craftsmen and designers he brings together to collaborate in the name of creative endeavor.

Wine Interest Voyage
Nov 12-19, 2023 | Seabourn Encore from Istanbul, Turkey to Athens, Greece
World Wine Guys - Wine, spirits, food and travel writers, educators, television presenters, emcees and hosts, as well as award-winning journalists and best-selling and award-winning authors, Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen are the wine editors at Robb Report Magazine. Mike is also the official taster for Spanish wines at Wine Enthusiast.
Will Lyons, Sunday Times Wine Critic - A journalist, newspaper columnist, award-winning wine writer and broadcaster, Will is most widely known for his writing in The Wall Street Journal and The Sunday Times, and is currently Vice President of the Sunday Times Wine Club. For more than a decade he has published a weekly column on drinks, formerly in The Wall Street Journal and now The Sunday Times. His humorous, informed, down-to-earth writing has been recognized in both the Glenfiddich and Roederer wine writing Awards.
Sailing from Istanbul, this voyage includes special interest wine and food experiences ashore. Onboard, guests will be entertained by world-renowned wine experts with talks, tastings, pairing advice, together with premium 'wine and dining' opportunities.

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Holland America Line Set to Sail Most Diverse Asia Cruise Season with 49 Ports Across 10 Countries in 2024-2025

Nine unique 14-day itineraries offer exciting combinations of different countries; two longer 28- and 53-day Legendary Voyages showcase deep culture and history of Asia

Image Source, Holland America

SEATTLE, June 6, 2023 -- For Holland America Line's 2024-2025 Asia season, the cruise line is set to explore the Far East with departures from Hong Kong, China; Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan; and Singapore to some of the most exciting cities across 10 countries, with a strong focus on Japan.

Noordam will sail a series of nine different 14-day itineraries that travel around Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. The cruises showcase the diversity of the countries while celebrating their unique histories. Late departures and overnight ports allow extra time for sampling the nightlife, cuisine and culture of the region.

"The demand for Asia remains strong as cruisers seek experiences to exotic and off-the-beaten-path locales that give them unique travel moments," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "By offering three departure cities we're able to diversify our itineraries and showcase an incredibly robust season. With 24 ports in Japan alone and two dozen more spread among several countries, our guests are in for an immersive Asia adventure."

Westerdam also heads to Asia on a new 53-day "Majestic Japan" Legendary Voyage roundtrip from Seattle. Travelers can visit the Far East with a convenient North American flight, easy embarkation and jetlag-free journey spanning several time zones.

Longer Legendary Voyages on Two Ships

• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 53- or 52-Day "Majestic Japan" aboard Westerdam departing Sept. 1 or 2, 2024, either roundtrip Seattle, Washington, or between Vancouver, Canada, and Seattle. Featuring 21 total ports, 13 calls throughout Japan and overnights at Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe, Japan, and Honolulu, Hawaii.

• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 28-Day "Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef" departing Jan. 5, 2025, roundtrip from Singapore aboard Noordam that explores 10 ports in five countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, with scenic cruising in the famed Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait, and past the Kumba and Krakatau volcanoes.

Highlights of the 2024-2025 Asia Season

• Noordam explores Asia from September 2024 through April 2025.

• Overnight calls include Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe (Osaka); Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand; and Da Nang, Vietnam.

• The cruises visit a combined 49 ports in the region, including 24 in Japan.

• "North Pacific Crossing" between Vancouver and Yokohama:

• 13 days, departing Sept. 29, 2024, Vancouver to Yokohama, including calls at Sitka and Kodiak, Alaska, and Kushiro, Japan.

• 15 days, departing April 27, 2025, Yokohama to Vancouver, including Kushiro, and Alaska's Kodiak, Juneau, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay.

• "Circle Japan" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Three itineraries:

• Osaka (Kobe), Kochi, Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, Niigata, Aomori, Otaru (Sapporo) and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Sokcho, South Korea.

• Kochi, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Kanazawa, Niigate, Otaru, Aomori and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Busan (Pusan), South Korea.

• Shimizu, Kobe, Kochi, Hiroshima, Sakaiminato, Tsuruga, Toyama, Akita, Hakodate and Miyako, all in Japan; as well as Sokcho.

• "Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines" — 14 days, between Yokohama and Singapore. Calls at Osaka (overnight), Naha and Ishigaki, Japan; Keelung (Taipei) and Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Manila, Boracay and Puerto Princesa, Philippines.

• "Far East Discovery" — 14 days, between Hong Kong and Singapore. Calls at Halong Bay, Da Nang (Hue), Nha Trang and Phu My, Vietnam; Sihanoukville, Cambodia; and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight) and Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand.

• "Far East Discovery Holiday" — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. Thailand: Nathon (Koh Samui) and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight). Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Phu My, Halong Bay and Da Nang (overnight).

• "Indonesian Discovery" — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. All calls are in Indonesia and include Probolinggo and Semarang, Java; Celukan Bawang and Benoa (Denpasar), Bali; Komodo Island; Lembar, Lombok; and Tanjung Priok, Jakarta. Scenic cruising by the active Krakatau Volcano.

• "Japan and Taiwan" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Amami (Naze), Naha, Ishigaki Island, Nagasaki, Abruatsu, Kochi and Kobe. Taiwan: Hualien and Keelung (Taipei).

• "Japan and South Korea Discovery" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Kobe (overnight), Kochi, Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Kagoshima. South Korea: Sokocho, Busan, Jeju City (Cheju) and Incheon (Seoul).

Book Back-to-Back Cruises with a Collectors' Voyage
Ranging from 27 to 42 days, Asia Collectors' Voyages are perfect for avid explorers seeking a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back, nonrepeating itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests.

Legendary Voyages Linger Longer
Holland America Line's extended Legendary Voyages range from 25 to 59 days and combine the ceremony of a Grand Voyage with itineraries that feature a comprehensive collection of ports that enrich the experience in each destination. Most of Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation.

Have It All Booking Bonus
For a limited time, when guests book select 2024-25 Asia cruises with the Have It All premium package, the standard package amenities of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi are included — plus the added perk of free prepaid Crew Appreciation, along with free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Terms and conditions apply. Visit hollandamerica.com for full details.

Beginning fares for 2024-25 Asia cruises range from $1,699 to $10,999 per person, double occupancy, depending on length. Taxes, fees and port expenses are additional.

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New Contest from Princess Cruises, Xponential Fitness Offers Opportunity to Walk to Win™ a Custom All-Electric Porsche Taycan

Image Source, Princess Cruise

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., June 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Earning an opportunity to win a one-of-a-kind all-electric Porsche Taycan could be one step away through a fun contest from Xponential Fitness and Princess Cruises.

he Walk to Win™ Porsche contest gives fitness fans and cruisers the opportunity to win a custom branded, high-performance Taycan valued at $100,000.

To qualify for the contest, U.S. residents of legal age* can use the XPASS app from Xponential Fitness and achieve a 30-day fitness streak. An alternate way to qualify is available for Princess guests who use MedallionPay Shoreside when shopping on vacation at over 250 merchants in 28 destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska.

"This contest combines the entire portfolio of Xponential 10 premier fitness brand members with Porsche to create excitement for Princess cruise vacations," said John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises.

The contest follows a highly successful giveaway of a Porsche Taycan last year that drew nearly a million entries.

"We are gamifying fitness as we aim to make America healthier through our Walk to Win Porsche contest," said Danyal Ali, President of XPASS at Xponential Fitness. "We added a pedometer to the XPASS app which rewards points towards fitness classes and can punch your entry into the Porsche in-app game. Don't count your steps, make your steps count." 

Emblazoned with recognizable logos and tag lines from Princess and Xponential, the unique Porsche Taycan includes a host of accessories including:

• BOSE® surround sound system

• 20" Taycan Turbo Aero Wheels

• Wheel center caps with colored Porsche crest

• "Electric" logo on front doors

• Interior in black/limestone beige

• Ambient lighting

• Lane Change Assist (LCA)

• Silver window trim

• Three years of 30-minute DC charging sessions with Electrify America

*Complete contest rules can be found at https://www.xpass.fit/blog/porsche-taycan-contest-rules.  Entries for the contest will be accepted through May 3, 2024 and from all residents of the United States, but excluding residents of Colorado, Maryland, Nebraska and North Dakota.

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UNWTO and MSC Foundation to Deliver Sustainable Tourism Education at Sea

 Geneva/Madrid – June 5, 2023 – UNWTO is working with the MSC Foundation to deliver a series of sustainability-related education courses on board the MSC Euribia cruise ship. The initiative builds on the success of the first Global Youth Tourism Summit, held in Sorrento, Italy, in 2022, and will see the creation of the MSC Foundation Youth Lab, a specially equipped venue on the advanced new eco-ship.

One of the core programs to be offered in the Youth Lab will be "GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations,” designed in close partnership with UNWTO.

The program will deliver 12 daily two-hour activity sessions on key subjects ranging from ocean health, recycling and climate change to sustainable tourism and social media, all focused on the “sustainability challenge.” The activities have been designed to offer kids the opportunity to learn, create and express themselves according to their interests and ideas for the future.

Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director, said: “We are proud to build on the tremendous success of the Global Youth Tourism Summit in Sorrento by extending our partnership with UNWTO to promote youth empowerment and sustainability education. The new MSC Foundation Lab on MSC Euribia will offer an innovative venue for children and teenagers to engage in sustainability-focused activities. Our new custom-designed program, ‘GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations,' has been specially conceived to empower young people to learn, create, and express themselves while addressing key sustainability issues such as marine conservation, climate change and responsible tourism. By making our young guests the center of these activities, we aim to raise awareness of the challenges facing humanity and equip our next generations with the tools they need to create a better world."

Matteo Mancini, MSC Cruises Senior Manager Kids Entertainment, said: "For MSC Cruises, keeping the younger generations entertained on a cruise means listening to them and taking real note of their interests and wishes. Last summer, during the Global Youth Tourism Summit, young people from all over the world also asked us for the space and time to discuss these topics on board our ships. We welcomed their request, believing it our duty to join with Gen Z youth to create a high-impact edutainment, creation and sharing program with the power to generate concrete results. It’s an immense honor for us to join with UNWTO to achieve this, bringing the young people on our ships the latest information and powerful resources to build a sustainable future."

Alessandra Priante, Director of the Regional Department for Europe at UNWTO, said: “After the immense success of our first Global Youth Tourism Summit, which brought together children from every corner of the world, we are very excited that GYTS will not only go across borders but also across the seas and oceans. We are grateful to the MSC Foundation for their continued support in highlighting the central role that youth can play in building a sustainable tourism of the future. We are proud to support MSC Cruises as they continue to educate and empower children and youth to become more conscious, committed and engaged.”

The MSC Group is committed to taking comprehensive action through the MSC Foundation to raise awareness of the big challenges facing humanity and to provide its young MSC Cruises guests with tools that inform and motivate through an understanding of its programs and initiatives across four focus areas: the Environment (including marine conservation), Education, Community Support and Emergency Relief. This includes inviting young cruise guests to become Junior Ambassadors of the Foundation and running dedicated activities that equip them to voice the right of our younger generations to live in a better world.

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NatureMetrics, MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation Join Forces to Advance Understanding of Most Endangered Marine Species

 Geneva, Switzerland - May 30, 2023 - MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation announced an innovative partnership today with NatureMetrics, the pioneering nature intelligence and environmental DNA specialists.

The primary goal of this visionary project, named “eBioAtlas: Biodiversity Sampling from Cruise Liners using eDNA,” is to collect comprehensive biodiversity data for marine species using the innovative technique of DNA sampling. By collecting eDNA from seawater while on board and sending it to NatureMetrics for analysis, the team will discover and record the marine wildlife present across MSC Cruises’ routes.

The project has global reach with the data contributing to the eBioAtlas, a global program by NatureMetrics and IUCN. The eBioAtlas unlocks the vast reach of the global community, now including MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation, to come together and provide a new, harmonized biodiversity data layer that will drive informed decision-making for the benefit of both people and nature. 

Recognizing the urgent need for improved data to mitigate biodiversity loss and accelerate progress toward a nature-positive future, eBioAtlas will help move the needle for global priorities such as climate mitigation, adaptation and food security. Through close collaboration with local stakeholders, marine non-governmental organizations (NGOs), national governments, and the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, this initiative will enable up-to-date marine species assessments and reassessments in the North Atlantic.

Dr Kat Bruce, Founder at NatureMetrics, said: “Collaboration is crucial in our quest to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by the end of the decade. MSC Cruises’ pioneering work to collect and share biodiversity data with our eBioAtlas program will unlock nature insights that allow us to make informed decisions on marine conservation globally. The time for decisive action is now, and with organizations like MSC Cruises leading the way in the travel industry, we can create a world where businesses and nature can make meaningful progress in harmony.” 

The eBioAtlas program will acquire biodiversity data from three different MSC Cruises itineraries, providing accurate information for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This valuable data will be made accessible to third parties free of charge through the eBioAtlas partnership between NatureMetrics and IUCN, fostering conservation and restoration efforts throughout the Northern Atlantic.

Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, said: “The MSC Foundation is committed to advancing ocean conservation through science. It was therefore only natural for us to join forces with NatureMetrics to support vital biodiversity mapping, assisting the International Union for Conservation of Nature to perform the assessments that are critical indicators of global biodiversity health.”

Seawater samples will be collected from the vessels' seawater intakes using specially designed eDNA collection kits. These samples will then be sealed and sent to NatureMetrics for DNA analysis. The results, along with location details, will be shared with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to enhance their understanding of global ocean biodiversity.

The maiden ship to participate in the sampling initiative will be MSC Euribia, which will commence data collection in the Nordic region (Norway and North Sea) followed by MSC Poesia (Iceland and Greenland) and MSC Preziosa (Iceland, Norway and Svalbard).

Coppell Linden, VP of Sustainability and ESG at MSC Cruises, said: "Our innovative partnership with NatureMetrics is more than just a strategic alliance. It's a commitment to harnessing advanced eDNA technologies and global collaboration to drive our sustainability and conservation efforts. It's about utilizing our resources wisely and optimizing processes to make the best possible decisions for our planet's future. We are proud to be supporting this vital work by taking samples on four ships over 11 cruises, for a total of 114 sampling days this year."

Marina Anselme, Secretary General at the MSC Foundation, explained: "The MSC Foundation is delighted to facilitate and fund this groundbreaking partnership with NatureMetrics and MSC Cruises. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to protect our oceans and create a nature-positive future for generations to come."

The partnership between NatureMetrics, MSC Cruises and the MSC Foundation highlights these organizations’ commitment to promoting marine conservation, supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework and building a sustainable future. Together, they strive to establish a solid foundation for informed decision-making and to inspire individuals to appreciate and protect the precious species that inhabit our shared spaces

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Image Source, Port Canaveral

Image Source, Norwegian Cruise Line

Port Canaveral, FL – June 1, 2023 - Norwegian Cruise Lines has recently announced their decision to reposition the Norwegian Epic to Port Canaveral this winter, in response to the growing demand for Caribbean sailings. Starting from December 17, 2023, the ship will offer seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, providing guests with unforgettable experiences in these sought-after destinations.

(Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line)

"Thanks to our great partnership and strong collaboration with Norwegian, we’re delighted to welcome back Norwegian Epic. She's a terrific addition to our fleet of homeported ships offering a variety of Caribbean sailings to meet the surging demand," stated Capt. john Murray, Port CEO. "We're proud to be the preferred port for millions of cruisse guests, and proud of the confidence in our Port to deliver a high-quality experience."

In an announcement, a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson said, “we are committed to providing exceptional vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and by taking our guests to some of the most sought-out destinations around the world.”

The Norwegian Epic, belonging to the Epic-class of ships, boasts impressive specifications, including a gross tonnage of 155,873 GT, a length of 1,081 feet, and a height of 200 feet. With 19 decks, the ship can accommodate 4,100 passengers (based on double occupancy) and 1,724 crew members.

The Norwegian Epic offers a range of unique and captivating features, such as the Haven, the first ship-in-a-ship enclave. Guests can also enjoy amenities like a bowling alley, an Ice Bar, and The Epic Plunge, the only bowl slide at sea. These exciting features provide ample entertainment for guests during their extra day at sea.

Additional information on Norwegian Epic’s new voyages from Port Canaveral will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

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AMAWATERWAYS RELEASES 2024 ‘HEART OF THE RIVER’ BROCHURE

 Luxury River Cruise Company Prepares to Expand to Colombia with Two New Ships, AmaMelodia and AmaMagdalena; Year Ahead to Also Feature New Land Packages and Itineraries

CALABASAS, Calif. – (June 1, 2023) – The leader in luxury river cruising, AmaWaterways, released its 2024 Heart of the River brochure detailing the unparalleled experiences that await guests across Europe, Egypt, Asia, Colombia and Africa. The new brochure is available to order from the AmaWaterways website in print version or download immediately in digital format. In the year ahead, the company will continue on its innovative path forward with new ships, itineraries and land packages, including the launch of the world’s longest river cruises in Europe, Seven River Journeys, the first-ever major river cruise along the Magdalena River in Colombia, and the all-new culinary-themed Flavors of Burgundy itinerary.

Photo credits:AmaWaterways

“We have a lot in store for 2024 and are delighted to provide travelers with all the details they need to plan the trip of a lifetime,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Whether novice or veteran river cruisers, our 2024 sailing season truly has something for everyone, from the history and culture of Europe to the unexplored splendor of Colombia.”

Cruising in Colombia with Two New Ships and Itineraries, Plus Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Packages

Photo credits:AmaWaterways

As the first-ever major river cruise line to sail along the Magdalena River in 2024, AmaWaterways is offering guests the choice between two seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia. Sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla, both new itineraries take travelers down the only river in the Caribbean region to experience sites and cultural traditions that have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding universal value. Offering year-round departures, travelers have unlimited opportunities to uncover the soul and spirit of the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” through unique and immersive shore excursions, live carnaval performances, local gastronomy, city tours and more – all included within the price of the cruise.

Awaiting guests in Colombia are two custom-built ships perfectly designed to enhance the experience. Launching Spring 2024, AmaMagdalena boasts only 30 staterooms while sistership AmaMelodia, offers 32 staterooms. Travelers can look forward to being warmly welcomed onboard the two ships, where they will find spacious 237 sq. ft. twin balcony staterooms, a heated pool, a fitness room, a nail salon and a new al fresco dining experience, on top of the luxurious amenities AmaWaterways is known for.

To make the most of guests' time in Colombia, AmaWaterways invites travelers to extend their journey with optional pre-cruise land packages in Medellín and Cartagena, and a post-cruise land package in Panama City, Panama. 

First-Ever 49-Night Seven River Journeys Through Europe, Launching in 2024

Photo credits:AmaWaterways

On the heels of making history with the longest river cruise experience in Europe spanning 45 to 46 nights in 2023, AmaWaterways will debut an even longer Seven River Journeys itinerary that gives travelers the opportunity to explore an additional country in 2024. These two exceptional 49-night journeys will take travelers on an incredible voyage between the North Sea and the Black Sea. Sailing through 15 countries across the entire European continent, guests will travel along the Rhine and Moselle rivers, through the history-making Main-Danube Canal and cruise the full length of the legendary Danube River including, for the first time, the Danube Delta region. Also a first for the cruise line, travelers can experience this extraordinary voyage without transferring between ships, as the entire river cruise takes place on board the luxurious AmaMora.

Boasting the inclusion of unique excursions, gratuities, convenient airport transfers, complimentary laundry and luggage service as well as the accompaniment of an extraordinary AmaWaterways’ Cruise Manager throughout the 49-night journey, this experience will go beyond guests' expectations, providing the river cruise journey of a lifetime.

New Flavors of Burgundy Itinerary with Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Packages in Geneva, Switzerland and Paris, France

In response to continued guest interest in delving into famed culinary and wine regions, AmaWaterways will debut its all-new Flavors of Burgundy seven-night itinerary in 2024. Sailing between the Port of Dijon and Lyon, guests will savor the palate-pleasing journey that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy region. Throughout this seven-night river cruise, travelers will explore Lyon’s famous Les Halles Market, pedal along the scenic Saône River, all while indulging in the region's best Mâconnais and Chalonnaise wines. A video showcasing highlights of the Flavors of Burgundy itinerary can be found here.

The Flavors of Burgundy itinerary can be combined with pre- and post-cruise three-night land packages in Paris, France and Geneva, Switzerland. In each destination, travelers can enjoy ample leisure time and exclusive excursions to immerse themselves in the local cultures. While in Geneva, guests will enjoy a city tour through the “Peace Capital” and visit the mesmerizing Montreux and Chillon Castle. In Paris, travelers will have the opportunity to go on an evening illumination tour to discover why Paris is renowned as the “City of Light.”

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