BRAND-NEW BILLION DOLLAR CRUISE SHIP COMING TO AUSTRALIA 

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas to be based in Australia for 2016/17 season

UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL 9am AEST, 15^th April 2015- Royal Caribbean International, the world’s largest cruise brand, announced today that Australia will welcome its very own brand new cruise ship for the first time when Ovation of the Seas arrives in Sydney for the peak summer season from December 2016. 

Currently under construction in Germany and with a price tag of USD$1 billion, the Quantum Class megaliner will not only claim the title of the largest cruise ship to ever call Australia home – carrying almost 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew – but also the most technologically advanced.  

“Royal Caribbean has been breaking the boundaries in Australian cruising since we arrived in 2007 but today, we have completely changed the face of the cruise industry, making the single largest investment in Australia by any cruise line,” said Gavin Smith, regional vice president, Royal Caribbean, Asia Pacific.

“While we’ve introduced many firsts to Australia, including the newest, largest and most modern megaliners with features like ice skating and surfing at sea, this is the very first time any cruise line in the world has home ported a brand new ship in Australia.” 

“We dream big at Royal Caribbean. We create the world’s most imaginative holidays and this has never been truer than for Quantum Class ships. Ovation of the Seas will completely redefine the idea of cruising in Australia, taking the industry to the next level by offering a host of incredible never-before-seen features and technologies. 

“This demonstrates our belief in, and long term commitment to, the Australian cruising market. We believe that Australians shouldn’t need to travel overseas to experience the kind of cruise holiday we stand for; the most innovative and amazing ships anywhere in the world are available right here on your doorstep.

“With almost five thousand guests and 1500 crew onboard, the arrival of Ovation of the Seas in Australia and New Zealand will deliver significant economic benefits at each of her ports of call,” Smith said.

When Ovation arrives, Australians will experience the first Ripcord by iFLY at sea down under, where the thrill and excitement of skydiving comes to life from onboard a cruise ship. 

The North Star aerial observatory offers breathtaking 360 degree views more than 90 metres above the sea. In a jewel-like capsule, a robotic arm elevates guests high into the sky, taking in the sights from a bird’s eye view wherever in the world the ship happens to be. In Sydney Harbour, the North Star will reach higher than the pylons on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The Bionic Bar lets guests place an order for their favourite cocktail via a tablet, before two incredible bionic arms create the perfect mix in tune to the resident DJ, shaking and stirring great cocktails without any human assistance. 

‘Two70’ is a multipurpose, transformative space; an expansive lounge boasting 270 degree ocean views by day becomes an immersive, multimedia entertainment spectacular at night, fusing technology with entertainment using robotic video-screens, dramatic digital projection and high-flying aerialists and performers.

Guests onboard the SmartShip will be more connected than on any other cruise ship in the world, with high speed wi-fi allowing them to stay in touch and share more of their experiences with friends and family onshore. 

Radio frequency wristband technology does away with the need to carry a cabin key, and a dedicated app, Royal iQ, lets guests book onboard experiences from their own device, including making a booking at any of the 18 distinct restaurants.

Quantum Class ships feature cuisine as vast and varied as the world itself. These dining destinations range from fun to formal settings, including partnerships with world renowned chefs, such as the much-loved “Jamie’s Italian” from Jamie Oliver at sea.

Jamie Oliver said, "I'm super-excited that Ovation of the Seas will be sailing out of Australia, and with a Jamie's Italian on board! This will be our third restaurant with Royal Caribbean, and it's been a real honour to work with their team. The response we've had to Quantum of the Seas – our first restaurant at sea – has been brilliant, so it just makes me even more excited for this one to open." 

Meanwhile, SeaPlex will be the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, offering bumper cars, a basketball court, roller skating, circus school and more.

Even while providing an incredible array of onboard activities, Quantum Class ships use less energy than ships built just a few years ago, by more efficiently configuring the hull and engine designs and equipping them with state of the art high efficiency systems and appliances. Ovation of the Seas will be delivered with an "Air Lubrication System" which reduces the hull's friction with the water,  reducing fuel consumption.  Ovation will also be built with advanced emissions purification (AEP) systems, also known as scrubbers, which remove more than 97% of the sulfur dioxide emissions generated by the engines. These AEP systems are progressively being retro-fitted to many of the ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Ovation of the Seas is the third ship in the ground-breaking Quantum Class and will be the fifth ship in the Royal Caribbean Australian fleet for summer 2016/17, joining four other superliners –Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas in Sydney and Legend of the Seas in Brisbane – offering an expansive range of the newest, most modern and exciting style of cruising Australians have ever experienced. 

Cruise fares will start from $199 a day. Bookings for Ovation of the Seas’ maiden Australian season open mid-way through 2015, but guests are encouraged to register their interest at www.royalcaribbean.com.au/Ovation to be the first to receive information on her sailings down under when details are announced. 

About Quantum Class Ships:

The smartest ship at sea 

Unprecedented levels of technology amp up the holiday experience onboard Quantum Class, which allows for the utmost in simplicity, efficiency and customisation. Guests can be online and connected 24/7 should they choose to be, thanks to superfast wireless speeds that match broadband connections onshore, and a downloadable app, Royal iQ, empowers guests to manage every detail of their holiday during the cruise. Not to mention robots! Technology also enables a number of surprise-and-delight elements including a brand new venue, Bionic Bar powered by Makr Shakr that is set to make waves with robots centre stage.

Activities that make you dream big 

Royal Caribbean added to its portfolio of exclusive, ground-breaking onboard experiences that have never before been imagined at sea with a skydiving experience called RipCord by iFLY, as well as the engineering marvel North Star, a glass observation capsule that gently rises more than 91 metres in the air to treat guests to dramatic 360-degree views.  More “firsts” onboard include bumper cars, a circus school with flying trapeze and roller skating can be found inside SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea. 

A new era of dining at sea

Cruise ship dining has also been modernised with Dynamic Dining, where guests have total control of their own culinary journey and can choose from a landscape of 18 distinctive restaurants.  Five complimentary, full-service restaurants replace the traditional, common main dining room, while a variety of specialty restaurants will wow even the savviest foodies, including the new multi-sensory venue Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, as well as concepts from award-winning chefs Jamie Oliver, Michael Schwartz and Devin Alexander.  

Show-stopping entertainment 

Technology headlines onboard entertainment with a line-up of first of their kind productions and performances. The transformational new venue Two70 offers the most highly advanced digital displays, Vistarama and Roboscreens, that intertwine with live performers, music and special effects to deliver spectacular, multidimensional shows and events that have never before been seen on land, let alone at sea.

The Royal Theater will be home to Broadway smash hits as well as an all-new headline show, Sonic Odyssey, which was inspired by musician and innovator William Close and his variety of one-of-a-kind majestic instruments. 

Spacious rooms with a view

Uber-sophisticated in design and big on size – an average of nine percent larger than those of Oasis class ships – the 2,090 staterooms onboard Quantum Class ships are Royal Caribbean’s largest and most advanced yet.  Guests can choose from a wide selection of categories, including Family-Connected staterooms that are perfect for multi-generational families or groups of friends, new balcony and interior Studio staterooms created for single travellers, as well as Virtual Balcony staterooms, which are interior cabins with large digital screens displaying real time views that ensure every room has a view. 

Shopping, fitness, family and more! 

Every aspect of Ovation of the Seas is complete with the newest, most sophisticated features at sea.  The retail offerings, which can be found within the Royal Esplanade and The Via, boast an unparalleled collection of celebrated brands including Cartier, Kiehl’s, BVLGARI and Hublot.  State-of-the-art fitness facilities make it

easy and inspiring to stay fit while on holiday, with all-new options including Technogym equipment, as well as professionally instructed Flywheel, TRX and Beach Bootcamp classes, which were influenced by former NFL linebacker Dhani Jones, who worked with Royal Caribbean as Quantum ClassExperience Advisor for Sports and Fitness.  And there’s fun for the whole family, thanks to a number of new enhancements to Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, including a fully-equipped Adventure Science Lab, as well as the very first wave pool at sea, which debuts as part of the DreamWorks Animation Madagascar-themed H2O Zone. 

Just for those of you , LIKE me who cannot wait until Ovation Of The Seas comes down to Sydney, Australia here's a sneak peak of what you can expect !

Imagination will take you everywhere,

At Royal Caribbean We Dream Big, So Leave What You Know Behind And Let Your Imagination Go.

Ovation Of The Seas Arrives in Sydney, Australia Dec 2016.

For a look at Ovation Of The Seas go to:;

https://www.facebook.com/rciaustraliaandnz/videos/832844663417389

For more please go to:

http://www.cruisetheseastravelandmediacruisingaustralia.com.au

About Royal Caribbean International  Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 45-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea. The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous holiday makers alike. Owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSE: RCL), the cruise line sails 23 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, South America, the Far East, and Australia and New Zealand. World renowned for its friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service, delivered by every staff and crew member, Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 11 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards. 

RCL Cruises Ltd Australia commenced operation in December 2008 as the Australian arm of global cruise holiday company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. The company offers three cruise brands in Australia and New Zealand: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. In the 2014/2015 cruise season, Royal Caribbean International was the largest cruise operator in Sydney, with three ships sailing in the region: Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. In the 2015/2016 local cruise season Royal Caribbean International will increase the local fleet to four ships: Legend of the Seas home porting in Brisbane; along with Explorer of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas home porting in Sydney. Celebrity Solstice will also sail her fourth local season out of Sydney.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising! 

Princess Cruises Debuts Top Deck Wine Festival and Whisky Menu 

Princess Cruises has announced that Dawn Princess will cruise out of dry dock in May offering Australia’s first beer and wine festivals at sea and a neat new whisky menu. 

As part of the multi-million refurbishment in Singapore from May 11 to 24, the Australian-based superliner will become the first ship in Princess Cruises’ worldwide fleet to offer a Beer and Wine Garden Festival experience at sea.

To be held twice during every cruise of more than seven days, the new offering will see the top deck transformed into a lively mini festival with marquees showcasing regional beers and wines plus live music.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said the festival was a homegrown idea which had been developed with two of Australians’ favourite things in mind – a beer garden and wine festival.

“We’re thrilled to be debuting this exciting Australian-first cruise product on Dawn Princess and think the combination of wine tasting on the top decks and the buzz of an evening festival will really appeal to local cruisers,” Mr Allison said.

In line with the growing trend towards whisky appreciation across all generations, Dawn Princess will also emerge from dry dock with a renovated Wheelhouse Bar offering a comprehensive menu of 56 whiskies including five local tipples: Larks Single Malt and Hellyers Road from Tasmania, Western Australia’s Limeburners Single Malt and Bakery Hill’s Double Wood and Classic whisky from Melbourne. 

Mr Allison said the old world charm of Wheelhouse Bar with its dark, moody ambience and the addition of two grand pianos, made it the perfect place to enjoy a whisky whether it was made from Tasmania barley or matured in the Scottish highlands.

In a nod to Australians love of good coffee, a new Italian café called Amuleto will be added to the Horizon Court Buffet, which will become known as the World Fresh Marketplace, offering a new range of cuisines from destinations the cruise line visits, such as Mexican, Brazilian and Asian street food. 

Meanwhile the ship’s Lotus Spa will receive a makeover with new treatment rooms, a refreshed reception area and an upgraded sauna. As part of its revitalisation, the spa menu will feature three New Zealand-inspired treatments developed especially for this market including a Healing Kawakawa Massage, a Rotorua Mud Ritual and Manuka Honey Hand and Foot Ritual. 

Mr Allison said local cruisers could also look forward to seeing some of the cruise line’s new initiatives with Animal Planet and Discovery at Sea introduced down under, including guided star gazing from the top deck.

The first chance to experience Dawn Princess’ exciting new onboard offerings will be on a 12-night cruise from Singapore to Fremantle departing May 25, 2015, with calls in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Fares start from $949* per person twin share.

For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com.au

 *Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Fares are in AUD on a per person, twin share basis. 

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Arriba! Princess Cruises Sails Around South America 

Australian cruisers are set to salsa around South America, with Princess Cruises announcing it will sail on its first circumnavigation of the colourful continent from Down Under in 2017.

The 84-night Circle South America cruise on Sea Princess will visit  28 ports across 18 countries including Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador and Uruguay, giving travellers ample opportunity to soak up the exotic cultures of South America, while enjoying all the comforts of a Princess cruise.

Departing Sydney on January 11, 2017, the cruise is priced from $17,999* per person twin share with the roundtrip voyage also available from Auckland and Brisbane.

The voyage is the headline act in Princess’ new 2016-17 program, which maintains the cruise line’s reputation for offering destination-rich, longer voyages from Australia. 

Also featured is a line voyage from England to Australia on the sparkling Emerald Princess as she sails south for her first ever season Down Under.  Departing Southampton on September 28, 2016, Emerald Princess will sail on a Four Continents Grand Adventure from Europe to the Middle East, Asia and Australia where she will make her maiden calls to Fremantle (November 8, 2017), Melbourne (November 13, 2017) and Sydney (November 15, 2017). Fares start from $7599* for the 48-night voyage from Southampton to Sydney.

On sale from April 23, 2015, the 2016-17 Australia and New Zealand program offers five ships providing record capacity to travellers on cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Fremantle and Auckland over the summer months. Holidaymakers can choose from 120 cruise options with an unprecedented 112 destinations across 39 countries on offer – including 23 new ports from Australia. Highlights include:

* 14 cruises from Sydney on the 3082-guest Emerald Princess and 2000-guest Dawn Princess, including the cruise line’s first ever 11-night cruise around New Zealand’s South Island. Priced from $1699*, the itinerary features Princess’ first scenic cruising in Marlborough Sound. Other Emerald Princess options include two cruises to Tasmania and a 14-night cruise to Fiji.

* A 42-night Dawn Princess journey to Asia sailing from Sydney and Brisbane to visit China and Japan, with fares starting from $6599*.

* Golden Princess’ second summer season from Melbourne, featuring 16 cruises including a record four sailings to the Pacific Islands as well as itineraries to Tasmania and New Zealand. Fares start from $2099* for a 14-night Pacific Islands cruise. 

* Sun Princess’ second summer season of cruises from Fremantle, featuring voyages to Indonesia, more short breaks to Busselton for Margaret River and the popular Northern Explorer cruises between Australia’s west and east coasts. Fares start from $2499* for a 15-night Indonesia cruise.

* Ten cruises from Brisbane on Sea Princess from November 2016 to January 2017 and Sun Princess from January to March 2017, including an 11-night Papua New Guinea cruise from $1899*.

* Round Australia cruises on Sun Princess with departures from Sydney in October 2016 and March 2017 as well as the first roundtrip voyages from Brisbane and Fremantle. Fares start from $4799*.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said Australian travellers would be spoilt for choice with the new offerings. 

“From unforgettable journeys across the world to shorter holidays exploring the beauty of the South Pacific and New Zealand, this program is packed with a record number of options which we think will really appeal to Australian travellers,” Mr Allison said. 

Mr Allison said he expected the new Circle South America itinerary to be particularly popular.

“We know Australians love our longer trips to Asia, Hawaii and Tahiti so we think they’ll jump at the chance to immerse themselves in the colour and excitement of South America as part of this landmark circumnavigation,” he added.

For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com.au

 *Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Fares are in AUD on a per person, twin share basis. 

Iinformation supplied by: Princess Cruises.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

 Passion for destinations at heart of Celebrity Cruises’ New Shore Excursion Program 

10 April 2015 – Inspired by travellers’ desire to connect to the world in a meaningful and authentic way, Celebrity Cruises has launched a new shore excursion program with an array of unique global experiences. Featuring special-interest categories and more than 70 new shore excursions, guests can discover a destination through activities designed to match their interests. 

From immersive sightseeing tours and wellness experiences to fully customisable “Private Journeys” and premium “Celebrity Exclusives,” the new shore excursions lineup presents travellers with unique introductions to the sights, sounds and flavours of the world. Celebrity is offering four new types of experiences for guests to choose from: 

* “Uniquely Celebrity”: Exclusive, upscale adventures in far-off destinations only available on Celebrity Cruises, which include:

o A luxurious day spent as a Sultan in Istanbul, Turkey

o The opportunity to oar across the deep blue glaciers in Ketchikan, Alaska

o A zero to sixty Ferrari adventure in Cannes, France

* “Culture and Locale”: Culturally focused experiences for guests who are inspired to go beyond the shores and straight to the heart of each locale:

o An enchanting evening experience of classical music, champagne and rare works of art at the world-famous Faberge Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia

o Live concert event in the 14th-century, secret Basilica del Pi in Barcelona, Spain

* “Lifestyle and Wellness”: Guests can set their pace and choose to focus on creativity, rejuvenation, lifestyle and wellness to nurture mind, body and soul:

o A scenic, guided nature walk in spectacular Melbourne, Australia

o An interactive and enriching wellness experience in Skagway, Alaska

*  “Family”: Enriching experiences, sightseeing journeys and competitive adventures for the whole family that uncover rich history and culture:

o A family Flamenco dance-off in Barcelona, Spain

o Exhilarating sailing plus a mini regatta in Kings Wharf, Bermuda

o A castle and treasure hunt adventure in Copenhagen, Denmark

“Our guests’ passions are rooted in interests as diverse as the world itself, and our new shore excursion program will give guests the chance to fulfil their love of food, art, relaxation, adventure and more in must-see, global destinations,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “We’ve closely collaborated with local experts to shape a program that will further enrich a traveller’s experience and connect them more closely to the exciting places that we sail to.”

Celebrity also has launched more than 70 new excursions including exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences at globally recognised landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, as well as enriching, interactive wellness experiences such as a tour of the lush Jewell Gardens in Alaska – and with more to come.

For more information about the Celebrity Cruises shore excursions, visit www.celebritycruises.com.au OR phone 1800 754 500 or call your travel agent.

Information supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Carnival Marks 100K Facebook Fans with Fun Video of Nice Posts 

With an OMG, a thumbs up and a few smiley faces, Carnival Cruise Line has celebrated a social media milestone by filming a heart-warming and humorous video that its 100,000 Australian Facebook fans are sure to ‘like’.

In a fun twist on US talk show host Jimmy Kimmel’s popular segment ‘Mean Tweets’, the cruise line has drawn on some of the best comments from its Australian Facebook page to celebrate its 100,000 milestone and thank local fans for making the online community such a fun place to visit. The clip can be viewed here.

Positive comments about the food, entertainment and crew are brought to life by some of the happy personalities on Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit and highlighted with a healthy dose of social media lingo and emojis.

It’s this level of positive social media engagement that has seen the cruise line’s Facebook page grow an average of almost 5000 new fans each month since Carnival Legend joined sister ship Carnival Spirit sailing from Australia last September. Carnival Legend was an instant social media hit with the Facebook page gaining 7000 new likes in the ship’s first month down under. 

But it’s the crew who get the best reviews with a post on Carnival Spirit’s much-loved maître’d Dessi Kostova receiving the highest engagement with 2645 likes, 942 comments and 138 shares reaching more than 66,000 people. 

Carnival Cruise Line Australia Vice President Jennifer Vandekreeke said social media was a valuable tool for the cruise line with its Facebook content reaching almost two million people since the arrival of Carnival Legend in September.

“Our social media community is made up of Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend fans so like our cruises, our Facebook page is a really fun place to hang out. Our Aussie fans use the page to reminisce about their cruise adventures and share their favourite memories about the crew as well as build excitement about upcoming holidays.  Sometimes it can look like a love letter to our crew, which is why we wanted to make the video about their special connection with our Facebook fans. The page always puts a smile on my face and underlines why we cruise here,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

The @CarnivalCruiseLinesAU Instagram account is also booming with a 38 per cent increase since Carnival Legend arrived.  For more information call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines, Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

First P&O cruises Passengers Go Ashore in Port Villa.

Passengers cruising onboard P&O Cruises' Pacific Dawn have today become the first cruise guests to go ashore in Port Vila following Cyclone Pam's devastation of Vanuatu on March 13.

 In addition to carrying 1800 guests who are expected to spend the day on shore tours exploring the port, Pacific Dawn delivered another shipment of humanitarian aid as Vanuatu continues to rebuild after the natural disaster that saw wind surges of up to 270km/h.

 There was a carnival atmosphere at the wharf in Vila this morning with a band and musicians turning the return of cruise passengers into a celebration.

 Cruise tourism is a vital component of the Vanuatu economy with two thirds of international visitors arriving by cruise ship.

 Sister ship Pacific Pearl is due in Vila on Saturday when her guests will also be going ashore.

 The visits are expected to inject vital funds into the local economy and lift locals’ spirits during a time of rebuilding.

 In recent weeks, both Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl have made calls at Vila but only to deliver aid shipments.

 P&O Cruises has praised guests on these cruises who were unable to go ashore but fully supported the United for Vanuatu aid mission and contributed in a big way through personal donations to the relief effort.

 The decision to allow passengers to again go ashore in Vila follows an on the ground assessment by Carnival Australia specialists in consultation with local government authorities.

Please see the attached image of Pacific Dawn’s passengers going ashore for the first time since Cyclone Pam.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

A Whole New World of Cruising in P&O Cruises' 2016-17 Program

A tribal Christmas in Papua New Guinea and rocking music-themed short breaks are among the highlights of P&O Cruises’ new five-ship program which offers Australian holidaymakers the largest range of cruise itineraries and destinations in the region. 

With 191 departures and 38 unique itineraries being offered across the cruise line's five-ship fleet between October 2016 and July 2017, the program continues P&O Cruises' evolution of modern Australian cruising. 

The addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden sees a plethora of new itinerary options for Australians including two year-round ships in Brisbane, a bumper season from Melbourne, long weekend breaks from Adelaide, more Papua New Guinea and Pacific explorations and expanded regional cruises.

With short breaks in hot demand, P&O Cruises is offering 84 Sea Breaks from new music-themed itineraries to the first cruise from Auckland to Napier for the internationally-renowned Art Deco Weekend and more regional itineraries including Melbourne's inaugural short break to Eden on New South Wales' Sapphire Coast.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Sture Myrmell said a five ship fleet opened up some exciting opportunities for Australian cruisers.

"We're taking Australian cruising to the next level with this jam-packed program. With the biggest home-ported fleet, we can offer the largest range of itineraries and destinations in the region," Mr Myrmell said.

"We have one of the best backyards in the world and our five-ship fleet is cruising from all over the country to take our guests from Port Lincoln to Papua New Guinea. While we're showing off the best of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our guests can enjoy the latest in onboard innovations making our ships an exciting destination in their own right."

On sale from April 22, highlights of the new program include:

* Four music-themed Sea Breaks including a three-night Blues cruise from Sydney from $549* 

* A 10-night Papua New Guinea Christmas cruise on Pacific Eden from Brisbane from $1849* 

* Pacific Aria's first Sydney season featuring a new 15-night Papua New Guinea cruise calling at Alotau, Madang, Rabaul, Kiriwina Island, Kitava, Doini Island and scenic cruising in the Vitu Islands, Kawanasausau Strait and Milne Bay from $1899* 

* Pacific Eden will join Pacific Dawn cruising year-round from Brisbane including her inaugural 14-night New Zealand itinerary with fares from $1599* 

* Pacific Aria will offer a season of short breaks from Adelaide including three-night weekend getaways from $599* and four-night options visiting Port Lincoln or Melbourne from $649* 

* A bumper Melbourne season including Pacific Jewel's new 13-night Pacific Islands Christmas cruise from $1949* and the first four-night Sea Break to Eden from $599* 

* Pacific Pearl’s Auckland season sees the first Sea Break to Napier for New Zealand’s Art Deco Weekend priced from $659* 

The first 200 guests who book a new program itinerary departing from November 14, 2016, will receive special extras including priority check-in and tenders, welcome gift packs and onboard credit.

For more information visit pocruises.com.au, or see a licensed travel agent.

*Price is per person quad share. Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Sandy Olsen Returns To Carnival Australia As Vice President Corporate Affairs To Support Further Cruise Industry Growth

As cruising in Australia and New Zealand continues to be the stand out success of local tourism and Asia expands as a regional market, widely respected corporate affairs specialist Sandy Olsen is returning to Carnival Australia with a key focus on regional growth and government affairs.

Sandy rejoins Carnival Australia as Vice President Corporate Affairs to support the organisation and CEO Ann Sherry, who has recently expanded her own role to include South East Asia chair for the global cruise industry body, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

The corporate affairs role addresses port facility requirements in Sydney and Brisbane in particular to support further cruise industry growth and its increasing economic contribution of more than $3.2 billion annually.

“As cruising continues on a path of double digit annual growth with the landmark target of one million passengers to be achieved this year, the sector is moving in exciting new directions but challenges such as infrastructure investment remain,” Ms Sherry said.

“Sandy’s unparalleled experience of cruising’s transformation, its dramatic growth trajectory and its operational challenges made her the obvious choice to lead Carnival Australia’s corporate affairs team.

“Sandy will support our efforts to achieve long term shared access at Garden Island in Sydney and improved cruise facilities in Brisbane to accommodate larger cruise ships as the Queensland market continues to boom.

“Her focus will also include cruise industry growth in Asia where significant growth in coming years will increasingly see Australia and Asia complementing each other as seasonal offset markets. I am looking forward to Sandy rejoining the Carnival Australia executive team.”

Sandy will return to Carnival Australia on June 1, 2015. 

“Returning to the booming world of cruise shipping seems like a natural step and I am really looking forward to it,” Sandy said. 

“All of the excitement of the recent record breaking summer cruise season reminded me just how much I have missed being part of Carnival Australia and the cruise industry. 

“I am pleased to have this opportunity to draw on my previous cruise industry experience to support Carnival Australia's continued growth and Ann's efforts in the growing Asia cruise market.”

Media contact: 

David Jones 

Carnival Australia Corporate Communications 

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Carnival Australia Cruise Passengers First to Go Ashore in Port Vila  as Humanitarian Aid Shipments to Vanuatu Continue 

Passengers departing Brisbane this Saturday on P&O Cruises Pacific Dawn will become the first to go ashore in Port Vila following the devastation caused by Cyclone Pam. 

Vila has been confirmed as safe for cruise visitors to return as a result of the determined recovery efforts that have been underway since the cyclone hit causing widespread damage. 

Pacific Pearl will follow Pacific Dawn into Vila three days later with both ships continuing to deliver shipments of humanitarian aid including building material to support reconstruction efforts. 

The decision to allow passengers to again go ashore in Vila follows an on the ground assessment by Carnival Australia specialists in consultation with local government authorities. 

"The arrival of the two ships, which between them will be carrying nearly 4000 passengers, sends powerful signals about Vanuatu's capacity to bounce back from such a major natural disaster," said Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry. 

"Our passengers have been eager to return to Vila to show their support for the people of Vanuatu and it is an expression of our promise to resume regular cruise calls because of the importance of cruise tourism to the Vanuatu economy. 

"Two thirds of international visitors arrive in Vanuatu on board cruise ships and we wanted to return as soon as possible."

Following the devastation caused by Cyclone Pam, Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, committed $300,000 to Save the Children's relief effort in Vanuatu including $150,000 from Carnival Corporation Chairman Micky Arison from his family foundation. 

Pacific Dawn will arrive in Port Vila on Wednesday and Pacific Pearl, departing from Auckland on April 6, will be there on April 11. 

While passengers will be able to go ashore they are being urged to remain within Vila's downtown area and to not venture into residential areas or travel to outlying communities still grappling with the impact of the cyclone. 

"The aid shipments to Vanuatu on board our cruise ships is a natural consequence of the strong relationships we have developed in Vanuatu over many years and our commitment to ensure island communities share the economic benefits of cruising," Ms Sherry said. 

"We have worked with international agencies to develop infrastructure to support cruise ship visits to beautiful destinations and we have helped communities establish viable tourism ventures that create jobs and opportunity.

"The return of our ships and our passengers is a very important sign that life in Vanuatu is finally getting back to normal after such a traumatic experience."  

Four Carnival Australia ships -- P&O Cruises' Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl and Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit -- have been carrying aid shipments to Vanuatu. 

The emphasis is now on carrying building materials to repair schools and other community structures. 

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

For more you can go to:

http://www.facebook.com/cruisetheseastravelandmediacruisingaustralia

Queen Mary 2 Scores Australian Rugby Great David Campese

Former Australian Rugby Union player David Campese has joined a strong contingent of 900 Australian guests sailing on Queen Mary 2 as she departs Fremantle for South Africa today. 

With more than a third of the 2600-guests hailing from Australia, Mr Campese will build some Aussie spirit onboard during the voyage from Fremantle to Cape Town from April 2 to 18.

As a guest speaker in the Cunard Insights program, he will offer his thoughts on the 2015 Rugby World Cup and share stories from his lengthy international career which spanned 101 games.

For the journey between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town, Mr Campese will be joined by former South Africa President F W De Klerk, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 with Nelson Mandela for his role in the ending of apartheid.  

Cunard prides itself on providing the finest speaker program in the cruise industry, offering guests a stellar line-up of high-calibre speakers during the world voyages of Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.

The 151,400-tonne liner has arrived in Fremantle today and will depart this evening across the Indian Ocean en route to South Africa. Queen Mary 2 will return to the UK in time for the line’s 175th anniversary celebrations in May.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

State Of The Asia Cruise Industry: More Cruise Ships, Passengers And Ports 

The second and most comprehensive 2014 Asia Cruise Trends study has revealed the region’s cruise industry is experiencing robust double-digit growth with historic numbers of cruise ships, passengers and ports in the region.

In releasing the findings, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Southeast Asia Chair Ann Sherry said the study revealed exponential double-digit annual growth over the past two years across all areas including the number of ships, sailings, operating days and passenger capacity.

“CLIA Asia commissioned the study to give all stakeholders a compelling overview of cruise industry growth in Asia as an indication of its potential for further expansion,” Ms Sherry said.  

“With cruise lines hosting nearly 1.4 million Asian guests last year, a 34 per cent increase in just two years, the global cruise industry has recognised that Asia is quickly becoming a major international market in its own right.

“It is exciting for the first time to know the true size of Asian source markets and to present a stunning picture of the opportunities that cruising presents for the region. The cruise industry is responding by offering more cruises that deliver experiences especially tailored to Asian travellers but are at the same time just as attractive to international travellers wanting to experience Asia's wide array of fascinating destinations.”

CLIA Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said the Asia cruise boom was good news for the Australasian region.

“We welcome the continued increase in deployments in the Asian region and the potential opportunities this provides for the Australasian market, both in terms of seasonal deployments and as a source market,” Mr Jardine said.

“With more ships based in the region, Australia and New Zealand will likely see a greater number of ships as well as larger capacity ships, which would require infrastructure investment to take advantage of the growth opportunities.”

For key findings of the report, please see the second page.

As a result of Asia’s rapidly growing cruise tourism market, CLIA established CLIA Southeast Asia and CLIA North Asia as the regional arms in 2014. 

CLIA in Asia commissioned the 2014 Asia Cruise Trends study to understand the quickly evolving marketplace. The research builds on a 2013 White Paper “Information, Intelligence, Insights” that was commissioned by the (former) Asia Cruise Association. Both projects were undertaken by CHART Management Consultants, global experts in cruise tourism and strategy.  Asia Cruise Trends collected three years of trending data from 13 international and regional cruise lines, representing approximately 90 per cent of Asia cruise ship capacity. The analyses exclude one-night cruises.

Key findings of CLIA Southeast Asia 2014 Asia Cruise Trends study:

1. Capacity Boost – The capacity to carry passengers continues to soar with the introduction of new and larger ships in the region. Since 2013, passenger capacity grew at a 20 per cent compound annual growth rate and is expected to reach almost 2.2 million in 2015. The Asia region has quickly progressed to fourth in passenger capacity deployment, tied with Australasia.

2. Asia Passenger Growth – With this increased ship capacity, Asians are cruising more than ever before.  Cruise lines hosted nearly 1.4 million Asian holidaymakers in 2014, a 34 per cent compound annual growth rate since 2012. 

3. Increase in Chinese Cruisers – From 2012 to 2014, the number of Chinese passengers grew 79 per cent per year.  In 2014, 697,000 passengers were from mainland China which is almost as many passengers as all other Asian markets combined (701,000).

4. Gen Y Cruisers – China’s Generation Y (aged under 35 years) made up most of the country’s outbound travel, according to statistics from the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF)1. This trend is echoed in the cruise industry. In four of the largest cruise markets – China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Philippines – more than four out of 10 passengers were under 40.

5. More Cruise Ships in Asia – This year, 52 cruise ships will operate in Asia, a 10 per cent compound annual growth rate since 2013. The number of cruises and longer voyages in the region has also grown with 1065 sailings scheduled this year, up 11 per cent per year. There has also been a significant increase in the number of days cruise ships are in operation, from 4307 operating days in 2013 to 5824 operating days in 2015. 

6. Asian Exploration – While Asian outbound tourism is exploding around the world, the study found that Asian cruisers are primarily exploring Asian destinations. More than nine out of ten Asian passengers (91 per cent) cruised within Asia. The remaining 9 per cent flew to cruise destinations outside the region, primarily in Europe, followed by Alaska and the Caribbean. 

7. Proliferation of Ports – Cruising in the region includes more than 168 destinations across 18 countries, making travelling by cruise ship one of the easiest ways to see all that Asia has to offer. While the introduction of new ports throughout Asia is great for travellers, it is also great for local economies. With a 34 per cent increase in port calls since 2013, cruise lines are bringing more visitors to destinations in Asia having a direct impact on economic growth in the region. Japan ranks top with 646 port calls planned in 2015, followed by Malaysia (580), South Korea (377), Singapore and Thailand (374 each).

8. Short Sailings – Depending on the market, many Asian guests have limited holiday entitlements making short cruises preferable. In 2014, 48 per cent of Asian passengers chose four to six day cruises, 38 per cent chose cruises of two to three nights, and only 12 per cent opted for seven to 13 night cruises.

9. Attracting the Asian Traveller – Cruise lines have recognised the need to bring their best ships and amenities to the region. New onboard offerings tailored to the Asian guests include inclusive onboard activities aimed at multi-generational families, high-end shopping, and adapted menus to include familiar favourites and regional cuisine.

Information supplied by: CLIA. Cruise Lines International Association Of Australasia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

New Carnival Bar Brings Magic of Alchemy to Sea   

A heady combination of handcrafted cocktails, top shelf spirits and fresh ingredients will see Carnival Cruise Line create alchemy on its Australian-based ship this year.

Alchemy Bar is a premium, interactive bar which will be added to Carnival Spirit during its August dry dock.

In line with a vintage pharmacy theme, guests use a prescription pad to select ingredients and watch as a master mixologist handcrafts a cocktail remedy tailored to their individual tastes. 

Carnival Cruise Line Australia Vice President Jennifer Vandekreeke said the combination of quality ingredients and friendly interaction created cruise alchemy.

“There's something magical about sitting down for a drink and being involved in the process of having it personalised just for you, to suit your mood in that moment," Ms Vandekreeke said. 

“Our Australian guests are social and love trying something new so we expect the new bar to be a big hit down under.”

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Beverage Operations Eddie Allen has overseen the roll out of the new bar on nine ships across the worldwide fleet and said Alchemy Bar had fast become one of the most popular places onboard.

“Alchemy is a premium bar experience offering high-end cocktails, which our guests have really embraced. They're not rushing by for a quick drink on the way to dinner or a show, they're lingering and enjoying the social aspect and the experience of having a cocktail handcrafted for them using unique ingredients such as lemongrass, orange peel, homemade bitters and even freshly-made syrups like chipotle and pineapple,” Mr Allen said.

“Our onboard bars have always been great social hubs but Alchemy takes it to the next level with an intimate interaction between guests and bartenders, who have been handpicked from across the fleet to work at the new bar.” 

As well as personalised cocktails, the new Alchemy Bar will offer a set menu of drinks developed by Mr Allen, who joined Carnival after an illustrious career as one of America’s top mixologists and sommeliers, including time spent at New York’s Compass Restaurant and Tao Management Group’s restaurants and nightclubs in Las Vegas. 

For more information call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Humanitarian Aid Being Unloaded From Pacific Dawn Today, In Port Villa.

Humanitarian aid, including tents, tarpaulins, bottled water, tinned food and industrial mulchers, has been unloaded from P&O Cruises’ superliner Pacific Dawn in Vanuatu this morning.

As the first cruise ship to arrive in Port Vila since Cyclone Pam, Pacific Dawn is supporting Save the Children Australia's relief efforts in Vanuatu communities still recovering from the category five cyclone.

Passengers have watched the unloading in respectful silence and will be attending a special United for Vanuatu fundraising concert onboard. Due to the situation on the ground passengers are unable to disembark in Port Vila

Sister ship Pacific Pearl is due to arrive on Saturday with a bigger aid shipment including building materials, more bottled water, long life food, safety gear, batteries and chainsaws.

Please see the attached images from Pacific Dawn’s visit to Port Vila this morning

For more information please go to:

http://www.facebook.com/cruisetheseastravelandmediacruisingaustralia

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

TOM, RACH AND ROSSO GO CRUISING WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN ON CHANNEL SEVEN

One hour television special to air Tuesday 31st March at 8pm

24 March 2015 – Royal Caribbean International and Channel Seven have announced a one hour television special starring Tom Williams, Rachael Finch and Tim “Rosso” Ross filmed onboard Australia’s largest and most feature packed ship Voyager of the Seas. The ‘first-of-its-kind’ program for Royal Caribbean will premiere during prime time on Seven, Tuesday, March 31 at 8pm. The program sees Tom, Rachael and Rosso experience cruising for the very first time, helping to debunk some common myths many people have about cruising.   

“I have never cruised before and definitely felt it was not for me – boring and full of old people! But boy was I wrong. Voyager of the Seas is packed with incredible things to do, see and eat! From surfing on the FlowRider, to rock climbing, ice skating, spa treatments, 10 different places to eat and more, there is definitely no chance of boredom,” said Rosso.

“We are thrilled to have been able to create a fantastic program with Channel Seven to show a wider audience the Royal Caribbean difference. Cruising is absolutely booming in the Australian market and we have found that those who haven’t cruised before have difficulty differentiating between us and the competition and we really do have some very unique, only-on Royal Caribbean features on our local ships. This program really helps show what cruising with Royal Caribbean is like and I think everyone will love it,” said Sean Treacy, commercial director, Royal Caribbean.

Filmed in January, the stars sailed for 10-nights on Voyager of the Seas’ Fijian Delight cruise. The program will showcase Royal Caribbean’s  onboard offerings including its world class dining options; innovative staterooms including the industry first virtual balcony staterooms with real time sights and sounds of the ocean; the DreamWorks Experience and signature Royal Caribbean features such as the FlowRider surf machine, ice skating rink, full size sports court, rock climbing wall, and the Royal Promenade – Voyager of the Seas’ indoor street that runs the length of the ship offering duty free shopping, bars and a café.

For the first time, for next summer’s 2015/16 season, Royal Caribbean International will homeport four superliners in Australia when Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas are joined by recently revitalised Explorer of the Seas in Sydney, and the first Royal Caribbean ship to be based in Brisbane – Legend of the Seas – increasing the brand’s total capacity by almost 50 percent.     

Tom, Rachael and Rosso Go Cruising premieres Tuesday, March 31 at 8pm on Seven.

For more information about Royal Caribbean International or to make a booking, visit royalcaribbean.com.au

or call 1800 754 500 or visit your local travel agent.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising !

Pacific Pearl Cruises From Sydney With Humanitarian Aid to Help Vanuatu Rebuild 

P&O Cruises’ Sydney-based superliner Pacific Pearl will sail for Vanuatu tonight with a precious cargo of humanitarian aid to help the region rebuild following Cyclone Pam. 

The 10-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu will now double as a humanitarian aid mission with 

the equivalent of two full shipping containers worth of vital supplies being loaded onto the ship in Sydney and handed over during a brief call to Port Vila on Saturday (March 28).

As requested by the Vanuatu Disaster Recovery Centre and in conjunction with Save the Children, supplies include:

* Food including long life milk, rice, sugar and flour

* Thousands of bottles of water to address the continuing need for fresh and clean water 

* Clothing, children’s toys and safety gear including vests, glasses and gloves 

* Hygiene products including 3500 toothbrushes, 4000 units of toothpaste and 200 cases of shampoo and conditioner

* 200 sheets of corrugated iron to repair schools and homes 

* 700 packs of batteries

* Four chainsaws, which will play a vital role in the clean-up and rebuilding process

Brisbane-based Pacific Dawn will become the first cruise ship to call at Port Vila in the wake of Cyclone Pam, with supplies including tarpaulins, tents, bottled water, canned food and industrial mulchers, set to be delivered during a brief call on Wednesday. Carnival Legend, from Carnival Australia sister brand Carnival Cruise Line, became one of the first ships to arrive in Vanuatu last week, delivering bottled water, a generator and other humanitarian aid to Santo. Carnival Spirit departs Sydney on March 30 carrying another shipment of aid.

P&O Cruises Spokesman David Jones said the cruise line would continue ongoing aid shipments as long as it was needed.

“The people of Vanuatu have been welcoming us to their islands for decades so we’re honoured to be able to play a part in the rebuilding process. We look forward to resuming regular cruise calls when the time is right and continuing to assist in the long term reconstruction of the country through the valuable contribution of cruise tourism to island communities,” Mr Jones said.

As part of Pacific Pearl’s humanitarian mission, guests have been invited to bring canned food, insect repellent and personal hygiene products for distribution in Vanuatu, as well as taking part in special Unite for Vanuatu fundraising concerts onboard. 

Pacific Pearl’s visit to Port Vila will be limited to the few hours needed to unload the shipment of humanitarian aid. Passengers will not disembark given the state of emergency on the ground.

As part of the 10-night Pacific Islands itinerary, Pacific Pearl will make her scheduled cruise calls to Noumea, Lifou and Isle of Pines and depending on an assessment of Mystery Island, may become the first ship to call at the southern Vanuatu island since the cyclone. 

for more information you can go to: http://www.facebook.com/cruisetheseastravelandmediacruisingaustralia

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Pacific Dawn Packs Cargo Hold With Humanitarian Aid  For Cyclone Ravaged Vanuatu.

P&O Cruises’ Brisbane-based superliner Pacific Dawn will sail for Vanuatu this afternoon with a precious cargo of humanitarian aid for the region’s cyclone-ravaged island communities.

As the first cruise ship to visit Port Vila in the wake of Cyclone Pam, the seven-night cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu will now double as a humanitarian aid mission.

The equivalent of a full shipping container worth of goods has been loaded onto the ship this morning and will be handed over during a brief call to Port Vila on Wednesday.

As requested by the Vanuatu Disaster Recovery Centre, supplies include 75 tents offering shelter to an estimated 450 people, and 192 tarpaulins, able to cover an area of more than 4600sqm. There are also several pallets of bottled water, tinned tuna, children’s toys, cleaning products and three industrial mulchers, which will play a vital role in the clean up and prevention of airborne disease and fire hazards.

Sydney-based Pacific Pearl will depart Sydney on Monday with twice as much aid including more food and water, sheets of corrugated iron for shelter, as well as hygiene products and batteries, which will be handed over in Port Vila on Saturday, March 28. Carnival Legend, from Carnival Australia sister brand Carnival Cruise Line, became one of the first ships to arrive in Vanuatu earlier this week, delivering bottled water, a generator and other humanitarian aid to Santo. Carnival Spirit departs Sydney on March 30 carrying another shipment of aid for the cyclone-ravaged region.

P&O Cruises Spokesman David Jones said the cruises offered guests the chance to give back to the people of Vanuatu during a time of great need.

“Our Pacific Dawn guests will be part of a humanitarian mission to help the very special people of Vanuatu who for decades have welcomed us to their islands,” Mr Jones said. “Guests have been invited to contribute directly by bringing canned food, insect repellent and personal hygiene products for distribution in Vanuatu, as well as taking part in special fundraising concerts onboard.”

On the way to Port Vila, Pacific Dawn will make her scheduled cruise calls to Noumea and Lifou. Pacific Dawn’s Port Vila visit will be limited to the few hours needed to unload the shipment of humanitarian aid. Passengers will not disembark given the state of emergency on the ground.

“We look forward to returning to Vanuatu on a regular basis and continuing to assist in the long term reconstruction of the country through ongoing aid shipments and the valuable contribution of cruise tourism to island communities,” Mr Jones said.

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Carnival Australia Marshalls Resources Of Its Australian Based Ships To Deliver Humanitarian Aid To Cyclone Ravaged Vanuatu

Carnival Australia is marshalling the resources of its Australian based ships to deliver desperately needed humanitarian aid to Vanuatu still reeling from the devastation of Cyclone Pam. 

Four ships -- P&O Cruises’ Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl and Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit -- are either on the way or preparing to go to Vanuatu. 

Carnival Legend became one of the first ships to arrive in Vanuatu yesterday, delivering bottled water, a generator and other goods from the ship to Santo, which was spared the worst effects of the catastrophic cyclone. Carnival Spirit departed Sydney yesterday carrying more aid for the cyclone-ravaged region.

Meanwhile Pacific Dawn is expected to become the first cruise ship carrying humanitarian aid to reach Port Vila when it arrives there on Wednesday after departing from Brisbane this weekend. Pacific Pearl leaves Sydney on Monday and is due in Port Vila on Saturday, March 28.

Working with Save the Children, Pacific Dawn and Pacific Pearl will be carrying numerous pallets of vitally needed supplies including food, bottled water and tarpaulins for shelter in stricken island communities. 

“The two immediate calls are for humanitarian purposes only but they will also enable our Ni-Vanuatu crew on our ships to make face to face contact with their families for the first time since the cyclone hit,” said Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry.  “We look forward to returning to Vanuatu on a regular basis because cruise tourism is so important to the economic wellbeing of the country and its people.”

On the way to Port Vila, Pacific Dawn will make her scheduled cruise calls to Noumea and Lifou. Port Vila remains in a state of emergency and Pacific Dawn’s call will be limited to the few hours needed to unload the shipment of humanitarian aid. Passengers will not disembark given the difficult situation on the ground. 

“We are confident that our guests will understand this knowing that they are playing an active part in delivering help to our friends in Vanuatu,” Ms Sherry said.

Pacific Pearl will also carry humanitarian aid when she departs from Sydney on Monday. Carnival Australia ships will continue to carry aid shipments to Vanuatu as the country embarks on long term reconstruction.

Plans are also in train for benefit concerts to be held onboard the P&O Cruises fleet with the proceeds devoted to Vanuatu relief.  The scale of the emergency in Vanuatu is unprecedented in the South Pacific and the marshalling of Carnival Australia's fleet resources is part of the company's overall response to the humanitarian crisis. 

The response involves a contribution of $300,000 to Save the Children's relief efforts comprising $150,000 from Carnival Australia and $150,000 from Carnival Corporation Chairman Micky Arison through his family foundation.

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising! 

P&O Cruises Offers Sneak Peek Inside Pacific Jewel’s New Pantry

P&O Cruises has revealed what’s in its Pantry, the cruise line’s game-changing dining concept which will debut on Pacific Jewel when she sails from Brisbane in June this year.

Replacing the ship’s traditional buffet, Pacific Jewel’s Pantry will provide an international market place of eight fresh food outlets and a bar, designed to take guests around the world before they even set sail.

Offering a stylish, relaxed setting in keeping with the latest café and bar designs, The Pantry’s options will include gourmet seafood from Hook’s Fish & Chips; Kettle & Bun, a delicatessen offering delicious fresh sandwiches, salads and soup; and Curry House featuring spicy delights from India, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa and the Caribbean. 

Guests can also enjoy mouth-watering Mexican cuisine from tacos to tortillas at Mexicana, while the Fat Cow carvery will be serving freshly roasted chicken, pasture-fed beef and slow-cooked pork from the finest local producers. Delicious Asian broths will be steaming at Stix, which will also offer innovative and traditional stir-fries, while The Grill will be the place for casual eats, like pulled pork burgers and chicken wings.

Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in gourmet desserts, pastries and cakes at the Sugar Bar, while a drinks bar will offer barista-made coffees as well as wine and beer. Food from all outlets except The Grill and the drinks bar will be included in the cruise fare.

The Pantry will open on Pacific Jewel in late June following a refit before the ship’s Brisbane winter season. The first time guests can enjoy The Pantry will be during Pacific Jewel's 16-night itinerary from Singapore on June 5, 2015, with calls in Indonesia, Timor L’este and Papua New Guinea en route to Brisbane. Fares start from $899* per person quad share. Until April 30, 2015, an onboard credit of $200* is available per cabin.

As announced last September, the Pantry concept will also feature on P&O Cruises’ latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, when they join the fleet in November this year.

The Pantry will reflect the latest in contemporary café design, creating a relaxed, inviting ambience. Each outlet will take on a different look, from the deco styling of Sugar Bar to the bleached wood panelling of Hook’s Fish & Chips, while seating will range from communal tables to sofas, high tables and banquettes.

Wooden floors, large rugs, Moroccan-style tiles, panelled walls and casual shelving lined with pot plants, vases and decorative frames will complete the picture to offer a completely new experience to Australian cruisers.

Detailing the dining options and décor, P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said the Pantry would offer a fantastic setting as guests enjoyed a wonderful selection of cuisine – all included in their fare.

“This is relaxed dining at its best – not only will the food be sensational, we think our guests are going to love the décor and vibe of The Pantry. It’s really going to be the perfect spot for a casual meal at sea,” Mr Myrmell said.

For more information see pocruises.com.au see a licensed travel agent or call 13 24 94.   

*Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Review : Oceania’s Marina.

Stylish, Sophisticated And Classy.

Welcome on board Oceania’s Marina, which is rated as a five star ship in the Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ship guide 2015.

Marina put on a display and sailed into Sydney Harbour as stunning as ever! Yesterday. Oceania’s Marina is giving local travel agents and their prospective clients the opportunity to enjoy fine dining at its best. They all enjoyed a much personalised tour by one of the professional Oceania Cruises sales managers on board during a one off stay in Sydney.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia were lucky enough to be invited on board for the special evening by Mr Craig Owens the Director of key Accounts and communications and his professional team from Oceania cruises.

Marina is very special she feels like a very luxurious hotel which is modelled on a European 5 star hotel. Marina has only 1,250 guests with 800 staff which gives it a 1.567 to 1 staff to guest ratio which is quite impressive.

On our personalised tour throughout the ship you could see the rich cherry woods and some of the custom made furnishings that are all over the ship. Marina has the feel of a country club with that relaxed casual atmosphere with all the charm of personal service.

Marina offers six different venues for you to dine in, it’s where you will find the perfect dish for you to enjoy either on your own or with a group of friends sampling some of the finest dishes you will have ever eaten.

The restaurants on board Marina include :

The Grand dining room

Toscana, which showcases Italian flair and passion.

Jacques traditional French bistro

Red Ginger which gives you classic Asian Cuisine.

Polo grill which has all the elements of a classic steakhouse.

Terrace Café which offers alfresco dining along with Waves grill.

Another way you know that you’re having exceptional food is by the statement from Craig Owens the director of key accounts and communications who said “Oceania is spending more money on dining than any other cruise line” now that is a bold statement!

As you walk throughout the ship you will see a lot of Art work, each of these pieces is unique to the ship.

The Marina also has the bon appetite culinary centre at sea, where you can even take cooking classes at sea and hone your own techniques. There is also the Artist loft where artist in residence teach a variety of fine arts.

Oceania also have the wide renowned cannon ranch spa on board, this is where you will be able to relax and feel pampered knowing that they have an array of award winning treatments and healthy living options for you to enjoy at your fingertips.

Marina also has a stunning fitness centre if you want to work out, for those of you who don’t like the fitness work there is a work out of another kind that you might like.

This consists of the retail shopping at the boutiques on board where there is plenty of shopping to be done! Whether you’re just having a quick browse or buying that special gift for someone.

As if that was not enough there is always afternoon tea at 4.00pm sharp it’s the perfect social event to enjoy a bit of sophistication in the afternoon.

Then there is the night time entertainment on board Marina which is also ways going to excite, there are lots of bars and lounges to find that perfect spot to sit down and enjoy the evening with a cocktail in hand.

You may find that the casino just might hit the spot with poker, blackjack and roulette on offer. Or you may find that the Marina show lounge along with the live entertainment which may feature a headline act or a comedian may take your fancy.

Despite all of the activities and entertainment on board the ship still has a relaxed, comfortable and familiar feel about it and you will still receive the very best of service.

Now for the most important information with the accommodation, all of Marina’s staterooms are fitted with the Westin heavenly beds and the largest bathrooms at sea, all fitted out with Bvlgari amenities, can’t forget to tell the lady’s about that they will be happy.

2015 marks the third time that Oceania’s Marina has come to Australian shores and the Australian locals have certainly embraced her. Australia remains the largest sourced market for Oceania Cruises outside of North America, Mr Owens told Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia.

Oceania Marina Review written by:

Brian Gaskin Of Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!

Photos credit : Brian Gaskin of Cruise The Seas Travel And Media.

We would like to thank the Team from Oceania Cruises, for a wonderful afternoon and evening spent on board Oceania's Marina.

Royal Caribbean International Donate $100,000 Dollars To The Red Cross Appeal To Cyclone Ravaged Vanuatu.

Just for those of you who are un clear of what RCCL is doing for the people of Vanuatu and the surrounding communities in this time of need by such an unfortunate event. The response by the Carnival Australia and RCCL should make us ALL so proud to be Australian. It shows the true Aussie Spirit !

Monday 16 March 2015 - We are deeply saddened by the devastating situation in Vanuatu. Our thoughts and prayers are with the wonderful people of this country who have long given a very warm welcome to our ships.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will give AUD$100,000 to the Vanuatu cyclone relief efforts. This has been done through the [ RED CROSS APPEAL ].We are seeking further information regarding how our friends and guests can also support the people of Vanuatu at this time.

Communication remains difficult but we are working with our partners on the ground to ascertain the situation in Vanuatu. We want to ensure that any visits from our ships will help rather than burden the people of Vanuatu.

All sailings will embark as scheduled from Australia and we will advise our guests of any itinerary changes to future cruises if they occur, in order to provide them with a safe and comfortable holiday but also support and help the people of Vanuatu in the best way possible.

The relief donation is in addition to the recently announced partnership with the Vanuatu Government under which Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will invest AUD$3.8million in shipping infrastructure in Vanuatu.

For more information please go to: http://www.facebook.com/cruisetheseastravelandmediacruisingaustralia

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia The HOME Of Australian Cruising!