Princess Cruises to Screen FIFA World Cup Games on Movies Under the Stars.

Princess Cruises will delight football fans by showing all 64 games of the upcoming FIFA World Cup onboard its Australian-based ships, Sea Princess and Dawn Princess, during June and July.  The matches will air on the line’s signature Movies Under the Stars outdoor screens, which have space for hundreds of guests to enjoy the action.

  Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said all the excitement of the World Cup would be available to guests while sailing with Princess.  “Watching a big football game at sea is an amazing experience. We're confident that our first-class onboard facilities, combined with the big match atmosphere our screens create, will offer a unique World Cup experience for guests,” Mr Allison said.

  "And if Australia don't emerge from one of the toughest groups in the competition against Spain, The Netherlands and Chile, our guests can always console themselves with a cocktail in one of our lounges, or unwind in our luxury spa."  The tournament, held between June 12 and July 13, 2014, will screen on nine Princess ships in total: Dawn Princess, Diamond Princess, Emerald Princess, Regal Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Sapphire Princess, Sea Princess and Sun Princess.  Sea Princess will be sailing from Brisbane on a series of South Pacific and Australian itineraries during June, relocating to Fremantle for a series of Asian cruises in July. Meanwhile, Dawn Princess will be part way through a 104-night round world cruise.

 Football fans will also enjoy themed entertainment and activities, including World Cup trivia, face painting with favourite team flags, team cheering sections and football-themed contests with prizes.  The World Cup is just one of many special events shown on the Movies Under the Stars screens. The giant LED screens are more than 27 square metres in size, with a 69,000-watt sound system and have sufficient lighting power to be seen clearly at midday and heard even while the ship is moving at full speed – offering cruise guests a movie experience comparable to the best shoreside movie theatre. 

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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

Cunard's magnificent Queens lined up three abreast for the first time at sea in a dramatic photo shoot as the fleet sailed from Lisbon to Southampton to mark flagship Queen Mary 2's 10th anniversary.

The world's grandest ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, and her sister ships Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria left Lisbon ahead of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh's visit to celebrate the milestone in Southampton on Friday May 9.

“This is the first time all three Queens of the Cunard fleet have been seen together anywhere outside Southampton or New York, and the first time these magnificent ships have been seen together at sea,” Cunard Director Angus Struthers said.

Photographer James Morgan took to the skies in a helicopter to capture the iconic shots of the three ships sailing in formation.
While it may look effortless the images were the result of a long planning operation in which the safety of the vessels and the thousands of people upon them was paramount.
“Most of the work in this type of photography is actually in the preparation beforehand. When you are dealing with the largest ocean liner in the world,  you can't sit in a helicopter asking if it can go left a bit or right a bit because it doesn’t work like that.  A three ship formation like this has to be finely coordinated and choreographed ahead of time.  It's not like directing traffic - this is more like ship ballet,” James said.

The months of planning included a logistical meeting with the captains and crew of the three ships to schedule down to the minutest detail how the photo shoot would come about.
It took the three ships around an hour to sail out of Lisbon to the site of the shoot.  All shipping in the area had to be totally cleared for the three Queens to ensure absolute safety for the technical manoeuvre.

Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner in service today and still the fastest passenger ship afloat ten years after she was named by Her Majesty The Queen in 2004, is on the final leg of her world cruise and her sister ships were on hand to escort her home in style.

Since entering service the 151,400-tonne Queen Mary 2 has sailed 1.5 million nautical miles on over 400 voyages including 213 transatlantic crossings. She has called at 182 ports in 60 countries and carried over 1.3 million guests.
The 90,900-tonne Queen Elizabeth is the newest member of the Cunard family, having been named by Her Majesty The Queen in 2010, while Queen Victoria was named in 2007 by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, and is the smallest of the Queens at 90,000 tonnes.

Please see the attached images of Cunard’s Queens sailing in formation at sea for the first time, off the coast of Lisbon. Mandatory photo credit James Morgan/Cunard.

Information supplied by : Cunard Line.

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Carnival Cruise Lines Gets Crafty with Bespoke Beer for Australian Cruisers

Carnival Cruise Lines is tapping into Australians’ thirst for quality craft beer with the launch of its own bespoke ale, available exclusively on its Sydney-based ships.

Created in partnership with Sydney’s award-winning Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, the cruise line’s ground-breaking Thirsty Frog Summer Ale is a refreshing beer which captures the spirit of a holiday at sea.

The 100 per cent natural ale will be on tap across 14 bars on the cruise line’s Sydney-based Carnival Spirit from June 1 as well as onboard its latest Australian ship, Carnival Legend, when it debuts in Sydney in September.

Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the beer was sure to be a favourite among guests.

“Carnival Cruise Lines has put a lot of effort into ‘Aussifying’ our ships for the local market, so we are thrilled to create our own authentic craft ale which really acknowledges Australians’ appreciation of a quality beer,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

“As the world’s largest cruise line, it’s been a great adventure to partner with the nation’s oldest pub brewery to create Australia’s first beer for cruising. This really is the ideal beer to relax with as you enjoy all the sun and fun of a South Pacific cruise.”

Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel owner Blair Hayden said the brewery had put a lot of work into crafting the ale, which appropriately combines Australian and American hops.

“Thirsty Frog Summer Ale is a very drinkable beer with subtle malt flavours and floral citrus aromas,” Mr Hayden said. “It’s perfect on its own or with a meal, and the fact that it’s naturally brewed, with no added sugars and preservatives, really adds to its appeal.”

Months in the making, Thirsty Frog Summer Ale takes its name from the Red Frog pubs featured across Carnival Cruise Lines’ fleet. The cruise line’s Vice President Beverage Operations Edward Allen visited Australia to work with the Lord Nelson team to develop the right taste for Australian guests.

Lord Nelson was selected for the partnership because of its experience and reputation for craft beers, with the brewery ranking as one of New South Wales’ biggest craft beer seller.  The creation of Thirsty Frog Summer Ale will make Carnival Cruise Lines the brewery’s biggest outlet in Australia, outside its premises in The Rocks.

About Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line in the world with over four and a half million guests travelling every year. Carnival Spirit is the largest and newest cruise ship to call Australia home and she will be joined by her sister ship, Carnival Legend in September 2014. With 45 activities from zen to adrenalin to enjoy each day, Carnival Spirit offers fun-loving families and couples memorable and great value holidays. 

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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Royal Caribbean International to base its first ship in Brisbane

Legend of the Seas becomes the fourth Royal Caribbean ship based in Australia for summer 2015/16 

7th May 2014: The world’s largest cruise line, Royal Caribbean International will base Legend of the Seas in Brisbane for the 2015/16 summer cruise season. Brisbane becomes the brand’s second Australian home port and takes the brand’s Australian fleet to an unprecedented four ships. The addition of Legend of the Seas, along with the recent announcement that Explorer of the Seas will replace Rhapsody of the Seas represents a total capacity increase of 47 per cent.  

The 2,000-guest Legend of Seas has been selected to homeport in Brisbane to meet the growing demand from Australian and international guests wishing to experience world class cruising to Queensland and the South Pacific. As a global cruise brand, international guests are expected to drive an increase in inbound tourism by travelling to Brisbane to experience Legend of the Seas with an estimated economic impact in the region of $25-30 million.

Legend of the Seas will also make ten calls at the combined Queensland ports of Cairns and Airlie Beach. Additionally Royal Caribbean’s other local ships, Radiance of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas, will make 27 port calls in Queensland during the local 2015/16 season at Cairns, Brisbane, Airlie Beach and Port Douglas. As an industry average, each passenger is estimated to spend approximately $100 per person in a port of call when visiting during their cruise holiday. 

Legend of the Seas arrives in Brisbane in December 2015 for a five-month season.  At 70,000 tons she is one of the largest superliners able to navigate the Brisbane River and dock at Brisbane Cruise Terminal at Portside Wharf.  She offers guests a world class cruising experience from the cruise line responsible for the world’s largest megaliners Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas and the much anticipated Quantum of the Seas. 

Following an extensive $50 million revitalisation in 2013, the ship boasts new “Wow” facilities that guests will not find onboard any other cruise ship sailing from Brisbane: a central Atrium with an acrobatic aerial show, a rock climbing wall, a mini golf course, an indoor swimming pool, a babies nursery and multiple speciality dining venues including a Sushi restaurant and a 12-seat private dining room. She also features a stunning two-deck grand dining room, an 800-seat theatre, the Vitality Spa & Fitness centre, a beauty salon a shopping arcade. 

Gavin Smith, Regional Vice-President Asia Pacific said, “We are thrilled to announce our first program of cruises from Brisbane. Legend of the Seas will provide a new choice in local cruising – and is the logical next stage in Royal Caribbean’s growth in Australia. This move comes off the back of strong demand from both the local and international guests and represents another major investment by Royal Caribbean in the Australian cruise market.”  

This is the second major announcement made by the company in Australia in a month, following the news that the 3,800-guest megaliner Explorer of the Seas will be based in Sydney from November 2015.  “Our Sydney and now Brisbane vessels represent the largest investment made by a cruise line in Australia and demonstrate our absolute commitment to the local cruise market,” said Gavin Smith. 

Royal Caribbean’s biggest ever Australian fleet will comprise four ships in summer 2015/16: Legend of the Seas in Brisbane and Explorer of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas in Sydney.  All four ships boast the benefits of the “Royal Advantage” fleet revitalisation program, which involves bow-to-stern renovations and the addition of many new amenities at a total cost of almost $250 million.  Together they will offer a range of over 70 itineraries featuring popular Australian, South Pacific and New Zealand ports. 

Legend of the Seas is currently sailing in Europe and the Caribbean.  Many Australians and New Zealanders will already be familiar with the ship during her recent Asia programs from 2008 to 2013 – and she will return to Asia once more from June to November 2015, offering a series of cruises from Singapore and Hong Kong.  As a prelude to her Brisbane season, Legend of the Seas will also briefly visit east coast Australia in June as she makes her way across the Pacific Ocean from California to Asia.

The Brisbane program will go on sale in mid-May and guests will be able to choose from an array of 17 attractive itineraries ranging from two to 14 nights to the South Pacific islands, Queensland and New Zealand – plus exotic repositioning cruises between Hong Kong and Brisbane.

This announcement is the latest in a number of exciting key changes to Royal Caribbean’s future deployment.  In the last two months the brand has announced its return to Dubai from late 2015; that new ship Anthem of the Seas will be based in the UK when she is launched in April 2015; the world’s largest cruise ship, Allure of the Seas, will sail her maiden season in the Mediterranean in 2015; and brand new ship Quantum of the Seas will be based in China next year.

About Legend of the Seas

* Maiden voyage May 1995

* Revitalised in February 2013

* 2,074 guests 

* 726 crew

* 915 staterooms

* 69,130 tons

* 267 meters long (867 feet)

* 32 feet wide (105 feet)

* 11 decks

* 6 pools and whirlpools

* 8 bars, clubs and lounges

* Speciality dining: Izumi, Chops Grille and Chef’s Table

* Central Atrium featuring aerial show and R Bar

* Royal Babies and Tots Nursery

* World-class theatre with 800 capacity 

* Two pools and four whirlpools

* Rock-climbing wall and jogging track

* Nine-hole mini golf course

* Outdoor movie screen

For more information about Royal Caribbean International, or to make a booking, guests and travel agents can visit royalcaribbean.com.au or call 1800 754 500. 

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 vacationers alike. Owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSE: RCL), the cruise line sails 21 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 will be 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.   royalcaribbean.com.au  

Royal Caribbean International Press centre:  royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com  Royal Caribbean AU & NZ Instagram:  instagram.com/royalcaribbean_aunz Royal Caribbean AU & NZ Facebook:  facebook.com/rciaustraliaandnz Royal Caribbean AU & NZ YouTube:  youtube.com/rciaustraliaandnz

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International.

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

Carnival Cruise Lines Takes the Fun to Singapore and Hawaii  

Carnival Cruise Lines has announced its latest Australian ship Carnival Legend will sail the warm waters of the Pacific to Hawaii next year, while Carnival Spirit will make the cruise line’s first ever visit to Asia on an exotic voyage from Sydney to Singapore.

The inaugural fly-cruise itineraries will give Australians an exciting new way to visit two popular holiday destinations, while enjoying all the fun of a Carnival cruise on the way.

Fares start from $1049* per person quad share for Carnival Spirit’s 15-day Sydney to Singapore cruise departing August 1, 2015 and including visits to Lombok and Bali in Indonesia and Brisbane, the Whitsundays and Darwin.  Meanwhile, holidaymakers keen to fly to Singapore and sail home can choose the ship’s 15-day cruise from Singapore to Sydney, departing August 30, 2015 and also priced from $1049* per person quad share.

The new cruises will give Queenslanders their first chance to experience Carnival Spirit sailing from Brisbane, with the cruise line offering a 13-day sailing from Brisbane to Singapore on August 3 as well as the return voyage departing Singapore on August 30, with fares  from $1049* per person quad share.

Australians will also be able take in all the onboard entertainment and excitement of the cruise line’s latest ship, Carnival Legend, as she sails across the Pacific to Hawaii in April next year.  Cruising from Sydney on April 20, the 18-day cruise will visit Fiji and beautiful Bora Bora, Moorea and Papeete in Tahiti before heading to Honolulu. Fares start from $1329* per person quad share.

The cruise line is also offering the chance to enjoy a spring sailing from Honolulu to Sydney via Tahiti and Fiji in September 2015 as Carnival Legend returns to Australia for its second summer season. Fares on the 18-day cruise leaving Hawaii on September 26, 2015 start from $1399* per person quad share.

Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said the new cruises would give Australians a great way to travel to Asia and Hawaii.

“We’re excited to be able to offer our guests these longer itineraries which are perfect for travellers looking to visit some wonderful tropical destinations which are a bit further from home, while enjoying all Carnival has to offer onboard,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

As with all cruises on Spirit and Legend departing from Australia, the cruises to and from Singapore and Honolulu will operate in Australian dollars and feature entertainment and food designed for Australian tastes, with no tipping required.

Both Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit offer 12 decks packed with plenty of activities as well as relaxation options, including four restaurants, 16 bars and lounges, two theatres, a spa and gym and the wonderful Serenity child-free retreat.

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

*Fares are per person quad share. Subject to availability, conditions apply

About Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line in the world with over four and a half million guests travelling every year. Carnival Spirit is the largest and newest cruise ship to call Australia home and she will be joined by her sister ship, Carnival Legend in September 2014. With 45 activities from zen to adrenalin to enjoy each day, Carnival Spirit offers fun-loving families and couples memorable and great value holidays. 

Information supplied by : Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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

Carnival Australia CEO and Australian Rugby Union Board Director Ann Sherry hosted Australia's Women's Sevens team on P&O Cruises’ Pacific Jewel last week, following their recent success in the IRB Women's World Series.

Ms Sherry, the first female representative on the ARU board, was making good on a promise to organise a lunch for the team in Luke Mangan’s onboard restaurant, Salt Grill, if the players returned victorious from Brazil.

The Women's Sevens team, ARU CEO Bill Pulver and the team's support group dined in style while Pacific Jewel was on turnaround at White Bay Cruise Terminal in Sydney.
Ms Sherry said she couldn't have been happier to honour her promise to a champion team and wished them well as they prepared for the final round of the series in the Netherlands later this month.
The entire party was given an end-to-end tour of Pacific Jewel and Captain Stefano Ravera treated them to a visit to the bridge where he presented team Captain Sharni Williams with a souvenir P&O Cruises' flag.

Please see the attached image of Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry and P&O Cruises Captain Stefano Ravera with the Australia’s Women’s Sevens team (Captain Sharni Williams is the first on the left) on Pacific Jewel.

Information suppied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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

HALF PRICE FARES FOR SECOND GUEST ON MORE THAN 1,200 ROYAL CARIBBEAN SAILINGS

Up to 50% off cruise fare of second guest for new bookings made during May

1 May 2014: Beat the winter blues this May and book your next summer getaway. Royal Caribbean International is offering up to 50 percent off the cruise fare of the second guest for new bookings made between the 1st and 31st of May 2014.  Choose from more than 1,200 sailings around the world, including Australia’s upcoming 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons. 

Running for the month of May, the sale offers guests*:

* Up to 50% off the cruise fare of second guest

* Available on all Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific sailings in the 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons

* Available on all International sailings departing between 1 January 2015 and 30 April 2016 (except Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas)

Fares starting from $1,099 for the first passenger and $549.50 for the second passenger for a seven-night South Pacific sailing onboard local favourite Rhapsody of the Seas during her last Australian season. Departing from Sydney on the 8th of November 2014, this sailing takes in the tropical delights of the Isle of Pines and Noumea in New Caledonia. Rhapsody of the Seas offers guests signature Royal Caribbean amenities including a rock climbing wall, a variety of dining options, an outdoor cinema and unique features like the aerial acrobatics display in the Atrium.

For further information or to make a booking, visit RoyalCaribbean.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent. 

*Prices are per person in Australian Dollars based on twin occupancy and inclusive of all taxes & fees (which are subject to change) and onboard gratuities (tips). Prices shown are for the lowest Interior stateroom available at time of going to print. Prices and exact cruise itineraries are subject to change without notice. The 50% off the second passenger is applicable to Royal Caribbean Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific sailings departing between 16 September 2014 and 30 April 2016. A discount up to 50% refers to Royal Caribbean Worldwide Voyages departing between 1 January 2015 and 30 April 2016 except Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas. The promotion is available from 01 May until 31 May 2014.  For full terms and conditions please visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International.

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

TWO HOLLAND AMERICA LINE SHIPS RETURN TO ASIA FOR 2014-15 SEASON

ms Rotterdam and ms Volendam sail cruises from 14 to 90 days

From summer 2014 through autumn 2015, Holland America Line will have two ships exploring the wonders of the Far East. The 1,432-passenger ms Volendam will sail a series of 14- to 17-day cruises and nonrepeating itineraries, while the 1,404-passenger ms Rotterdam takes an epic 90-day “Passage to the Far East” journey.

All of the cruises feature exotic ports of call with extended and overnight stays at some of Asia’s most iconic cities. The longer visits provide travellers ample time to explore the region’s extensive collection of historical and notable landmarks.

“As more travellers look to fulfill their dream of a holiday to remote corners of the globe, the Far East remains popular due to its historical significance, wealth of sightseeing opportunities and mysterious allure,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “From overland tours to the Bagan Temples to a chance to see the famed Komodo dragon, the length and diversity of our Asia cruises make them a truly uniqueexperience.”

New 14-day Asian Adventure Voyages

New this year, Volendam will sail three 14-day “Asian Adventure” cruises roundtrip from Singapore. Departing Dec. 22, 2014, and Feb. 2 and March 16, 2015, the ship calls at ports in Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay at Singapore and Thilawa (Rangoon), Myanmar, as well as an extended port call at Port Kelang (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia.

14-day Far East Discovery Voyages

The ship also sails a series of 14-day “Far East Discovery” cruises between Singapore and Hong Kong, China. Guests can embark Jan. 5 and 19, Feb. 16, March 2 or 30. The itinerary calls at Koh Samui, Thailand; Sihanoukville, Cambodia (with a late departure); several ports in Vietnam including late departures from Nha Trang and Halong Bay; and an overnight call at Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand.

The Asia Adventure and Far East Discovery itineraries can be combined for a 28-day Collectors’ Voyage departing Dec. 22, 2014, and Feb. 2 and March 16, 2015.

Fares for the 14-day Asian Adventure and Far East Discovery cruises begin at $1,949, and the 28-day Collectors’ Voyages begin at $3,549, per person, double occupancy.

16-Day Great Barrier Reef Voyage

Volendam sails three nonrepeating itineraries at the beginning and end of the season, starting Nov. 22, 2014, with a cruise from Sydney to Singapore. The 16-day “Great Barrier Reef” voyage explores the east coast of Australia with calls at Hamilton Island and Port Douglas with an extensive Great Barrier Reef experience. Guests will witness a sunrise at Lizard Island, sunset at Piper Island and sail around the Ribbon Reef and Far North regions and through the Torres Straight. The ship then makes its final Australian call at Darwin before visiting Komodo Island, Bali and Java in Indonesia.

14-day China and Japan Voyage

In the autumn, Volendam sails a 14-day “China and Japan” voyage departing Hong Kong April 13 and ending at Kobe, Japan. Along the way the ship calls at Shanghai and Xingang (Beijing), China, both overnight calls enabling guests to explore those bustling cities; Jeju (Cheju) and Pusan, South Korea; and Nagasaki, Japan.

17-day Trans-Pacific

Guests looking for an adventure can embark April 27 at Kobe for a 17-day trans-Pacific voyage to Vancouver, British Columbia. Following an overnight call at Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan, and calls at Hakodate and Kushiro, Japan, guests will enjoy leisurely days at sea crossing the Pacific Ocean to Canada. The ship visits Kodiak and Sitka, Alaska, with memorable scenic cruising along Alaska’s famous Inside Passage.

The 14-day China and Japan itinerary can be combined with the 17-day trans-Pacific cruise for a 31-day “China, Japan and North Pacific Crossing Collectors’ Voyage.”

Fares for the 16-day Great Barrier Reef cruise begin at $1,999, $2,099 for the 14-day China and Japan cruise, $2,249 for the 17-day trans-Pacific and $3,909 for the 31-day trans-Pacific crossing, all per person, double occupancy.

90-Day Passage to the Far East Voyage

Rotterdam starts the new year off with a 90-day “Passage to the Far East” voyage sailing roundtrip from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Jan. 7, 2015. Guests who find it more convenient can cruise roundtrip from Southampton, England, departing Jan. 8 for an 88-day voyage. The ship sails east with calls at Portugal, Morocco, Spain, Malta and Greece, before a daylight transit of the Suez Canal. Following relaxing sea days, the ship stops at Muscat, Oman, and Dubai, U.A.E., before reaching India. After several calls in that country, the ship makes way to Thilawa (Rangoon) for an overnight visit.

The Far East is extensively explored with calls throughout Singapore, Jakarta, Indonesia and Malaysia before sailing back to Sri Lanka, India, Oman, Jordan and Egypt. During the voyage, guests can take advantage of extra time in port with overnight calls at Port Klang, Malaysia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Mumbai (Bombay), India; Bali and Singapore. Following a transit through the Suez Canal, the ship explores Italy and Spain before returning to Southampton and Rotterdam.

Segments ranging from 34 to 55 days are available between Rotterdam, Southampton and Singapore.

Cruise fares for the complete 90-day cruise start at $12,999, $12,849 for the 88-day journey, $8,499 for the 55-day passage and $5,199 for the 34-day segment. Additional segments are available.

For more information about Holland America Line, contact a travel professional, call 1300 987 321 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE:  CCL and CUK)]

Holland America Line’s fleet of 15 ships offers more than 500 cruises to 415 ports in 98 countries, territories or dependencies.  One- to 110-day itineraries visit all seven continents and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; four annual Grand Voyages; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. The line currently has a new ship on order from Fincantieri shipyard for delivery in February 2016.

Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, a commitment totaling more than $500 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine — a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes — Explorations Café powered by The New York Times, Digital Workshop powered by Windows, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner’s Dream Beds.

World’s Leading Cruise Lines

Holland America Line is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World’s Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.  Visit us at www.worldsleadingcruiselines.com.

Information supplied by : Holland America Line.

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

CLIA Australasia Expands Executive Partner Ranks

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia has expanded its executive partner ranks with the addition of two new members – Wild Earth Travel and the South Pacific Cruise Alliance.

Wild Earth Travel is an Australasian small ship and expedition cruise wholesaler which represents numerous CLIA member lines around the globe, while the South Pacific Cruise Alliance is a Tahiti-based organisation designed to encourage the growth of cruising throughout the South Pacific region. Members of the alliance include American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Kingdom of Tonga, Tahiti, Pitcairn and Samoa.

Welcoming the new members, CLIA Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said the expansion of CLIA’s executive partner ranks reflected increasing recognition of the value of the cruising industry and the benefits that CLIA could offer its members.

“CLIA membership provides a platform for organisations to build their knowledge and contacts in the cruise industry as well as an opportunity to keep Australian and New Zealand specialist cruise agents informed about their product and services,” Mr Jardine said.

“As the local cruise industry expands, we continue to be encouraged by the growing number of organisations that are keen to connect with us and build their cruise business.”

Wild Earth Managing Director Aaron Russ said his company was pleased to become an executive partner.

“We see CLIA membership as a great opportunity to engage with cruise specialist travel agents who are keen to develop a greater understanding of the niche expedition cruise segment,” Mr Russ said.

SPCA President Ollivier Amaru said the alliance saw CLIA membership as an important step in the recognition of the South Pacific’s commitment to cruising.

“This is an excellent opportunity to engage with cruise lines and promote South Pacific cruises with cruise specialist travel agents through CLIA’s highly reputable network,” Mr Amaru said.

For more information visit www.cruising.org.au or www.cruising.org.nz 

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the world's largest cruise association and is dedicated to the promotion and growth of the cruise industry. CLIA is composed of more than 55 of the world's major cruise lines and serves as a non-governmental consultative organisation to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), an agency of the United Nations.

Information supplied by : CLIA Australasia.

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

Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises has continued to expand its local offerings with the announcement of another new regional port in 2015.

The cruise line will make its maiden call to Victoria’s picturesque Mornington Peninsula next year with a new four-night P&OSeaBreak cruising from Sydney to Mornington on March 16, 2015, priced from $549* per person quad share.

Mornington Peninsula adds to a growing line-up of regional ports with P&O Cruises recently announcing calls to New South Wales’ Hunter Valley wine region and Eden on the state’s south coast, Portland on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, and the Sunshine Coast port of Mooloolaba.

Meanwhile, the cruise line’s new 2015-16 program, on sale today, also features more visits to South Australian regional ports including Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln as well as Burnie and Port Arthur in Tasmania.

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

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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

See Antarctica in Style in a Seabourn Veranda Suite

Ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn is offering Australians the ultimate way to see the White Continent with complimentary veranda upgrades on all four voyages during its next Antarctica season.

Guests can take in the sights of Antarctica and Patagonia from the comfort of a veranda suite on Seabourn Quest with fares from A$14,999* per person double occupancy for the ship’s 21-night voyage departing Buenos Aires on November 29, 2014. The cruise line is also offering departures in December 2014 and January and February 2015.

Guests on the four special cruises will enjoy zodiac landings at selected Antarctic destinations, digital photography workshops, a complimentary Seabourn parka and backpack, guidance from skilled expedition staff and an inspiring onboard enrichment program as well as all the comforts of a Seabourn cruise, from a well-timed glass of Champagne to a rejuvenating massage after a day ashore. 

“A visit to the spectacular Whie Continent is amazing in itself but experiencing it from the comfort of a Seabourn veranda suite takes the experience to a whole new level of luxury,” said Seabourn Director of Sales Australia Tony Archbold.

Following its inaugural Antarctica season last year the cruise line has released a stunning video offering a glimpse into the striking scenery and abundance of fascinating wildlife that greet Seabourn guests on the seventh continent. 

The video features expedition leader Robin West who has travelled to Antarctica dozens of times and will be onboard each of Seabourn Quest’s four cruises to Patagonia and Antarctica during the upcoming season.

To view the video visit Seabourn’s website

Information supplied by : Seabourn Cruise Line.

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South Australia to Benefit as P&O Cruises Makes a Record Four Calls this Week

In a boon for the South Australian economy, Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises is making history this week with a record four calls to local ports expected to inject close to $1 million into the State.

The 64,500-tonne Pacific Pearl made P&O Cruises’ first ever call to Port Lincoln on Sunday and is berthed at Kangaroo Island for the first time today. The superliner is also due to make the cruise line’s maiden visit to Robe tomorrow morning.

The 1800-passenger Pacific Pearl made her maiden call to Adelaide yesterday, with guests enjoying a full day in the city. The cruise line last visited the South Australian capital in 2011.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the visits, which are part of a six-night roundtrip cruise from Melbourne, mark the start of a closer relationship with South Australia.

The cruise line will offer its first ever roundtrip cruises from Adelaide in 2015, with Pacific Jewel sailing on two cruises from the city in February and March. 

The cruise line last week announced that it will return again in early 2016 for a series of four cruises to and from Adelaide.

“Australians love exploring their own country and cruising is the perfect way for them to visit towns and cities around the coastline in comfort,” Ms Marshall said.

Ms Marshall said Pacific Pearl’s guests would be enjoying tours in each port as they take in the local attractions.

In Port Lincoln, passengers had the option to swim with the tuna or the sea lions or get close to some great white sharks during a cage dive.

On Kangaroo Island, the cruise line is offering visits to the Seal Bay Conservation Park as well as Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch.

The visit to Adelaide saw guests exploring the city and nearby Hahndorf Village or travelling to the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale to sample the regions’ famous wines. 

Meanwhile in Robe, tours to the Coonawarra wine region and the stunning Naracoorte Caves are expected to be popular with visitors.

With 11 passenger decks, Pacific Pearl features seven dining options including Salt Grill by Luke Mangan, eight bars and lounges, the Big Screen for poolside entertainment, Aqua HealthSpaFitness centre, two swimming pools, a swim-up bar, multi-level show lounge, four kids’ centres, boutiques and a child-free Oasis retreat area.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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CHINA IS NEW HOME FOR ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL’S QUANTUM OF THE SEAS

World’s newest and most technologically advanced cruise ship sets an entirely new standard for world’s fastest growing market

22 April 2014 – Royal Caribbean International has announced that its newest ship, Quantum of the Seas, will make its home port in Shanghai (Baoshan), China, bringing the company’s most innovative ship to the world’s fastest-growing cruise market. The ship will reposition to China in May 2015, following her inaugural winter season sailing out of New York Harbor to the Caribbean. In China, Quantum of the Seas will join Mariner of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas in Asia, increasing the company’s capacity in the region by 66 percent. 

“Consumers in China have grown to expect the best the world has to offer, and Quantum of the Seas meets that standard like no other ship,” said Adam Goldstein, President and COO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “We are ready to accelerate the growth of this vital market with a ship that will capture the imagination of travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.”

“Every trend we are seeing in China tells us we can achieve real long-term competitive advantage and appealing returns on our investments in this fast-growing market by accelerating our presence there,” Goldstein said. “We will have to be nimble, but the ability to move fast is one of our strengths.”

Goldstein said the company was able to make the move because its new-ship pipeline will keep the New York region supplied with top-rate ships as well.  

“We are very mindful of the importance of New York, which is why we are bringing Liberty of the Seas and then Anthem of the Seas to this market.”

Quantum of the Seas will debut in November 2014, and will spend its inaugural season sailing from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, N.J., before repositioning to China in May 2015. Beginning late June 2015, the ship will sail three- to eight-night itineraries year-round from Shanghai to Japan and Korea. Liberty of the Seas will then arrive to Cape Liberty to sail to Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Canada and New England for the 2015 summer and autumn (northern hemisphere) seasons. The Freedom-class ship will be the company’s newest and largest ship to offer cruises to Bermuda from the New York-metropolitan area.  Finally, Quantum of the Seas’ sister ship, Anthem of the Seas, which launches in April 2015, will complete her inaugural Europe season from London (Southampton), U.K., before arriving to Cape Liberty in November 2015 to continue Quantum-class cruising to the Bahamas and Caribbean for the winter 2015-16 season. 

“These incredible ships will meet the sophisticated expectations of consumers in Shanghai, New York and London. Our mantra for the new Quantum class of ships is ‘this changes everything’ – and upping our game in these key markets achieves just that,” said Dominic Paul, Vice President, International, Royal Caribbean International. “Our distinctive style of high quality innovative cruises has become known to travellers around the world and we will continue to deploy our most technologically advanced ships where the demand is, with the expectation of winning new converts to cruising.”

The ground-breaking Quantum-class ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, will debut a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences, such as Ripcord by iFLY, a heart-pounding skydiving experience; North Star, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey; cutting-edge transformative venues including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more; and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.  Guests also will enjoy the new Quantum-class “Dynamic Dining,” a completely new culinary experience that offers a landscape of 18 restaurant concepts as vast and varied as dining in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, including specialty restaurants created with partner-chefs Jamie Oliver, Devin Alexander and Michael Schwartz.

The Quantum Class spans 18 decks, encompass 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and feature 2,090 staterooms.

http://www.RoyalCaribbean.com/QuantumoftheSeas

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International.

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P&O Cruises Scores Big with Sports Fans

Footy fans will have a ball onboard P&O Cruises’ ships this winter, with the cruise line set to screen live coverage of the upcoming FIFA World Cup as well as a host of other major sporting events.

P&O Cruises’ guests will be able to keep up with the action during June and July with a number of World Cup matches shown on the big screen and in other public areas across P&O Cruises’ three ships.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said it was only natural that P&O Cruises would add one of the biggest sporting events in the world to its line-up of live onboard sports coverage, given Australians’ passion for sport.

As well as screening the FIFA World Cup matches, P&O Cruises will continue to air live footage of the upcoming NRL and AFL seasons, as well as showing action live from the Melbourne Cup and Australian Open during its dedicated P&OMainEvents cruises to Melbourne in November and January.

“Australians are a nation of diehard sports fans so it’s hardly surprising that we received great feedback from our passengers when we began screening live footage of NRL and AFL matches in 2012,” Ms Marshall said.

“We’re confident the World Cup matches will also score a goal with passengers, particularly when the Aussies are playing,” she said.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises Head North For Winter

RCL Cruises Ltd celebrates another successful local cruise season, including 12 per cent more guests

17th April 2014, Sydney: When Rhapsody of the Seas departs Sydney tomorrow for the last time this season, she officially ends the Australian summer cruise season.  It has been another impressive season for RCL Cruises Ltd with its two brands Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International hosting a record 190,000 guests – 12 per cent more than last season. Plus, both cruise brands celebrated milestones including Celebrity Solstice’s fifth birthday and Royal Caribbean launched the world’s first Instagram Film Festival.

Together, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises are proud to offer the biggest, most innovative and some of the highest rated ships in Australia. This season the local fleet featured five ships: Radiance of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas along with Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium. These ships sailed a total of 73 cruises, including a total of 59 turnarounds in Sydney Harbour. 

Gavin Smith, Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific for RCL Cruises Ltd says the increase in both local and international travellers continues to fuel rapid growth of the cruise market. “Since introducing two of the largest and most luxurious ships ever to be based in Australia last season, we have seen increased demand from Australian and international guests who see cruising as an exciting and hassle-free way to explore the region. On a cruise, passengers are able to see more attractions and scenery than any other form of transport can offer. Plus there’s so much to do on board such as superb food and wine, Broadway style entertainment, stunning facilities and luxurious day spa treatments,” Smith said.

Season Highlights 

* Royal Caribbean hosted the world’s first Instagram Film Festival which culminated in a grand finale event onboard Voyager of the Seas. The creator of the winning wow moment has won a spot on one of the first cruises on the brand new ship Quantum of the Seas later this year. 

* VIP guests celebrated the fifth birthday of Celebrity Solstice with a cocktail reception at the Lawn Club overlooking the Opera House and Sydney Harbour. 

* Voyager of the Seas was welcomed by locals for her maiden calls in Brisbane and Darwin.

* Rhapsody of the Seas called in the new port of Mare in the Loyalty Islands for the very first time. 

* Celebrity Solstice sailed to the South Pacific islands for the first time, offering a new standard of modern luxury cruising to the region. She made maiden calls at Lautoka and Suva in Fiji, Lifou in the Loyalty Islands and Isle of Pines in New Caledonia. 

* Celebrity Solstice made her maiden call in Newcastle and was welcomed with an official gun salute at Fort Scratchley. 

* Celebrity Solstice made her maiden call in the beautiful New Zealand port of Napier. 

* Voyager of the Seas met up with Celebrity Solstice in the ports of Wellington and Tauranga in New Zealand, temporarily increasing local populations by over 8,000 people! 

* A popular 15-night New Year cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas uniquely combined ports in Queensland and the South Pacific islands for the first time.

* The RCL Cruises Ltd Sales Team hosted over 7,000 agents and clients onboard in locations across Australia and New Zealand – including walk arounds and hosted famil trips.

Trends “Bookings for this season showed the continued popularity of multigenerational cruising – kids, parents and grandparents travelling together – particularly on South Pacific itineraries.  We’ve also found that more people are turning to cruising as a way of seeing their own country with more Aussies opting for Tasmanian, Queensland or Round Australia cruises and of course these itineraries remain popular with overseas guests,” said Smith.

Guest Nationality

Australians and New Zealanders made up 75 per cent of all guests sailing on the two cruise lines over summer.  Overseas guests came from 134 countries – including some unexpected nations like Ethiopia and Uzbekistan. Celebrity Solstice was particularly popular internationally, with over half of its guests coming from overseas.   

“This is one of the unique selling points of our ships in this region; we offer a very international cruise experience in which Aussies and Kiwis will holiday alongside a diverse mix of interesting nationalities,” said Smith.  “It creates a fantastic, cosmopolitan atmosphere onboard.”

Looking ahead to the 2014-15 Australia/ New Zealand Season

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity will be back for another big summer in September with 5 world class ships: 

* Rhapsody of the Seas arrives in Sydney 3 October 2014

* Celebrity Century arrives in Sydney 10 October 2014

* Radiance of the Seas arrives in Sydney 11 October 2014

* Celebrity Solstice arrives in Sydney 23 October 2014

* Voyager of the Seas arrives in Sydney 8 December 2014 – fresh from a $75 million refurbishment

According to Smith, “Booking momentum is solid for both cruise lines – and prices are increasing – this is the perfect time to book for next summer, with cruises available from under AU$1,000 per person for seven nights.”

A new addition to the Local Fleet

Next season will be the historic farewell season for Celebrity Century before she leaves the Celebrity Cruises fleet in April 2015. Celebrity Cruises will be holding special events across the next 12 months as part of the “Celebration of the Century”. The 1,800-guest Celebrity Century will arrive in Australasia on Friday 10th October 2014 after crossing the Pacific.  Her three-month Australian season will feature 11 sailings, ranging from seven to 23 nights in duration, including the cruise line’s first ever sailing to combine Tropical Queensland with the South Pacific islands, and brand new Australian itineraries such as an eight-night South Australian cruise. 

International News 

Globally, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises are enjoying a period of rapid expansion. The launch of the ground breaking Quantum Class ships is imminent. Quantum of the Seas – which will be based in New York and Shanghai – will include game changing “firsts at seas” such as a sky diving experience, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at seas complete with bumper cars, and the introduction of Jamie’s Italian, Jamie Oliver’s first restaurant at sea. The addition of Jamie’s Italian reflects the company’s new vision of dining at sea with a wider choice of main dining room and specialty restaurants.

A Cruise for Everyone

Gavin Smith emphasises that with the expansion of the local cruising fleet, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises can offer a cruise to suit all ages and tastes. Royal Caribbean ships, such as Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas (coming to Australia in the 2015-16 season) cater for the family market with innovative attractions such as rock climbing and ice skating at sea; while Celebrity Cruises has a particular focus on fine food and wine, with specialty restaurants on board, such as Celebrity Solstice’s Murano, Blu, and Tuscan Grille where guests can experience exquisite fine dining for a moderate surcharge.

RCL Cruises Ltd will open the 2014/15 summer season with a 17-night cruise from Hawaii to Sydney via French Polynesia, departing Honolulu on 5 October, 2014 aboard Celebrity Solstice.     

“Based on the momentum of bookings, we are expecting that this season we will see a significant increase in families trying out cruising for their summer holidays. Though staterooms have been steadily booking out, families who are looking for their first cruise experience can still book a South Pacific cruise holiday for four people from as little as AU$160 per day,” said Smith.

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 & New Zealand: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. In the 2013-14 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. This is in addition to two Celebrity Cruises ships, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium. For the 2014-15 cruise season RCL Cruises Ltd looks forward to welcoming Celebrity Century back to the region. In the 2015-16 cruise season the fleet will feature the region’s two biggest megaliners Explorer of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, the ever popular Radiance of the Seas and the region’s highest rated cruise ship Celebrity Solstice (according to Berlitz Guide 2014).  

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruise Line.

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P&O Cruises Thanks Newcastle and the Hunter, For Welcoming Pacific Dawn Passengers

P&O Cruises today thanked Newcastle and the Hunter Valley for their warm welcome for passengers on Pacific Dawn, which made a surprise visit after the threat of Cyclone Ita forced the superliner to change its itinerary.

Pacific Dawn was to have departed from Brisbane last Saturday for a scheduled Queensland coastal cruise but P&O Cruises made the decision to send the ship south to keep well away from the severe conditions whipped up by the cyclone.

As a result, Ita’s fury has delivered Newcastle a ‘silver lining’ with Pacific Dawn making her maiden visit to the port and effectively extending the local peak summer cruise season with an additional ship visit.

The surprise visit comes as P&O Cruises announced its return to Newcastle, with Pacific Dawn set to sail on new short cruises from Brisbane to the Hunter Valley from March 2015.

“We want to thank the people of Newcastle and the Hunter for making Pacific Dawn’s passengers so welcome,” said P&O Cruises spokesman David Jones. 

“The warmth of the welcome and the many local attractions certainly helped ease any disappointment passengers might have experienced over the unavoidable change in their itinerary from a coastal Queensland cruise to Sydney, Newcastle and Moreton Island,” Mr Jones said.

“Our passengers had a great choice of local shore excursions including tours of the city and Fort Scratchley military museum, dolphin watching at Port Stephens and a Hunter Valley wine tour.

“And they will be looking forward to the traditional booming gun salute from Fort Scratchley as Pacific Dawn departs Newcastle this evening and heads back to her Queensland home.”

The 70,205-tonne Pacific Dawn arrived in Newcastle early this morning and will depart around 6pm, heading north to Moreton Island off Queensland’s coast before returning home.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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"NEWS FLASH "  " NEWS FLASH "  " NEWS FLASH "

Golden Princess to Debut in Melbourne as Princess Cruises, Expands to Five Ships in Australia

Princess Cruises has announced it will base a record five ships in Australia next year, with the 2600-guest Golden Princess debuting down under as the biggest ship ever to homeport in Melbourne.

Golden Princess’ maiden summer deployment, which will increase Princess Cruises’ capacity in the Victorian capital by more than 20 per cent, is a highlight of the cruise line’s new Golden Anniversary 2015-16 program which reaffirms the cruise line’s leadership in the Australian market.

Released today, the program also features Princess Cruises’ first summer season of cruises from Fremantle, doubling the cruise line’s Western Australian offering to give the State its first year-round cruise program, as well as Princess Cruises’ biggest ever presence in Brisbane, with Queenslanders set to enjoy nine months of sailings in 2015-16.

As part of the record five-ship program, the 108,000-tonne Golden Princess will join the 116,000-tonne Diamond Princess in Australian waters for the 2015-16 summer, while the 77,000-tonne Sun Princess will remain in Australia next winter, joining sister ships Dawn and Sea Princess in providing cruises year round.

Launching the program, Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the record fleet would increase the cruise line’s local capacity by 35 per cent in 2015 compared to 2014.  The move further consolidates Princess Cruises’ position as Australia’s biggest cruise line with Australians now spending more nights onboard Princess Cruises’ ships than on any other line.

With five of its 18-strong fleet cruising down under, Princess Cruises ranks Australia as its biggest market outside the United States.

For the first time, all ships will offer $AUD pricing onboard as they deliver a program of more than 80 cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Fremantle and Auckland.  

Mr Allison said Golden Princess would be making her maiden visit to Australia when she arrived in Sydney in October 2015 before moving to Melbourne to become the biggest cruise ship ever to be based outside Sydney. Her five-month season will include holidays to New Zealand, the South Pacific and Tasmania, with fares starting from $1849*pp for a 13-night New Zealand cruise.

“Golden Princess’ larger size means she has a host of wonderful features. More than half her staterooms have private balconies, while she also offers a beautiful spa, four swimming pools and 10 restaurants and cafes, so we think she’ll be very popular with Victorians,” Mr Allison said.  

The program also cements Diamond Princess’ position as the cruise line’s flagship in Sydney, with the stunning superliner offering a record 11 roundtrip itineraries from the city over the 2015-16 summer. Fares will start from $1799*pp for a 13-night Fiji and South Pacific cruise.

Meanwhile Fremantle will enjoy its first ever summer of premium cruises, with Sun Princess sailing on a program of 11 cruises to and from Western Australia between October 2015 and March 2016, including the return of the cruise line’s popular 46-night itinerary to India and South Africa, priced from $8839*pp . This means Princess will now offer year round cruising from both the east and west coasts.

Brisbane will experience its biggest year of Princess Cruises’ offerings, with Sun Princess sailing from the city from August to November 2015 and Sea Princess offering cruises from November 2015 to April 2016.  Both ships will sail on a range of cruises to Papua New Guinea, the South Pacific, Queensland and New Zealand with fares starting from $1119*pp for a seven-night Queensland cruise.

For more information and bookings see a licenced travel agent, call 13 24 88 or visit princess.com 

*Prices are per person twin share. Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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" NEWS FLASH "  " NEWS FLASH "  "NEWS FLASH "

P&O Cruises’ Latest Program Offers New Cruises Across Australia

Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises has launched its most exciting program yet, offering more short itineraries from cities around Australia, visits to new regional ports and its first Melbourne Cup trifecta, with three ships cruising to the racing event.

The 2015-16 program is on sale from April 28 and offers cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Auckland. 

In response to strong demand, the program features the cruise line’s biggest and most diverse range of P&OSeaBreaks with itineraries spanning two to four nights including new sailings to Melbourne and more cruises to the Queensland ports of Mooloolaba and Moreton Island. P&OSeaBreak fares start from $549* per person quad share for four-night cruises from Sydney to Queensland.

In early 2015, the cruise line will also offer its first short cruises from Brisbane to New South Wales’ famous wine region the Hunter Valley, while beautiful Eden on the state’s south coast will receive its inaugural visit from P&O Cruises’ during longer sailings from Sydney to Victoria and South Australia.

Meanwhile P&O Cruises’ has boosted its Melbourne program to nine cruises during February and March 2016 including a new 11-night Pacific Islands cruise, short breaks to Tasmania and Sydney and a food and wine cruise.  

Pacific Jewel will also sail on enhanced South Australia and Tasmania itineraries ranging from five to 11 nights and featuring visits to Kangaroo Island, Burnie, Port Arthur and Port Lincoln as well as a new port - the scenic fishing village of Portland on Victoria’s famed Great Ocean Road. Fares for Melbourne cruises start from $499* per person quad share for a three-night cruise to Burnie.

The cruise line’s expanded South Australian program will include a nine-night roundtrip cruise from Adelaide visiting Melbourne, Burnie, Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln and Portland, priced from $1199* per person quad share. 

The offerings from Brisbane also feature a new P&OExplorer itinerary ‘Mutiny on the Bounty’, which will see Pacific Dawn cruise to Tonga and Fiji via Tin Can Island, a name which harks back to the early 20th century when its inhabitants used to swim out to meet passing steamers and give them their post in a tin can. The 14-night cruise is priced from $1499* per person quad share.

As the cruise line expands its P&OMainEvents itineraries, the entire fleet will cruise south for the race that stops a nation, with Pacific Dawn offering its inaugural seven-night Melbourne Cup itinerary from Brisbane, with fares from $999* per person quad share, including two full days in Melbourne to soak up the carnival atmosphere. 

Other event highlights include Australia Day cruises with Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel taking centre stage in Sydney Harbour and Pacific Dawn offering a scenic itinerary to the Whitsundays. Fares start from $579* per person quad share for a three-night cruise on Pacific Jewel or Pacific Pearl.

P&O Cruises will also offer a four-night itinerary to coincide with the 2015 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival and will return to Victoria for its third Australian Open in 2016 with Pacific Pearl offering a five-night itinerary from Sydney to Melbourne including general admission to Melbourne Park, priced from $849* per person quad share.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line was ramping up its offerings in 2015-16, with more choices and more local ports than any other cruise line.

“Our new program gives travellers from all over Australia the chance to explore some of the most beautiful corners of our country and the neighbouring Pacific and experience our nation’s world class events with a plethora of P&OSeaBreaks, P&OIslands and P&OMainEvents on offer in 2015-16,” Ms Marshall said.

“Whether travellers are looking for a few nights at sea or a longer escape, there are lots of new ports and exciting holiday options available so we’re looking forward to welcoming even more Australians onboard.”

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

*subject to availability, conditions apply. All prices are per person quad share.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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Get Ship Shape with Shannan Ponton on Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines is offering Australian cruisers the chance to get ship shape with fitness and healthy-living expert Shannan Ponton during two cruises on Carnival Spirit this winter. 

As Carnival Cruise Lines’ first Australian ambassador, Shannan will be onboard the July 23 and August 12, 2014, departures helping guests find a healthy balance while they enjoy a Pacific Islands holiday. 

Cruise to New Caledonia and Vanuatu with Shannan on Carnival Spirit from $979* per person twin share on a nine-night cruise departing Sydney on July 23. Shannan will also be onboard an eight-night cruise to New Caledonia departing Sydney on August 12, priced from $909*. 

Shannan, who hosted the Biggest Bootcamp at Sea on his last cruise, said he was looking forward to some more fun fitness with guests on the upcoming cruises.  

“There’s so much to do on a Carnival cruise, I'm busting to get back onboard with my family. I’m going to hit the gym first thing for a spin class, or a circuit, then maybe an abs class. Then I’ll relax on deck with a cold drink, and of course play some mini golf with my son too," Shannan said.

As part of his role with Carnival Cruise Lines, Shannan has spent time at sea sharing more than 20 years’ experience in the health and fitness industry with the ship’s trainers so that guests can sample his trademark workouts onboard. See one of Shannan’s gruelling spin classes at sea here http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=lOYCopqVhG8

Shannan has also worked with the ship’s chefs to design a nutritious snack – a turkey burger on a chia and quinoa bun – to add to the existing range of light meals at ‘Freshie’s Corner’. For guests wanting to maintain their healthy lifestyle while onboard, Shannan has given his ‘thumbs up’ symbol to highlight some of the healthier selections on the Empire Dining menu.

“With Shannan’s help, we’re letting Australians know that a Carnival cruise is a great option for a fit and fun holiday.  Whether you’re a committed fitness addict or your idea of a workout is a spa treatment followed by some relaxation time in our Serenity Retreat, Carnival offers plenty of healthy and entertaining options,” Carnival Cruise Lines Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said.

The largest and newest cruise ship to call Australia home, Carnival Spirit offers 45 activities over 12 decks of fun. Features include a fitness centre, sports court, spa, mini golf, four swimming pools, the Green Thunder waterslide and SplashZone and a child-free Serenity Retreat. 

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

About Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line in the world with over four and a half million guests travelling every year. Carnival Spirit is the largest and newest cruise ship to call Australia home and she will be joined by her sister ship, Carnival Legend in September 2014. With 45 activities from zen to adrenalin to enjoy each day, Carnival Spirit offers fun-loving families and couples memorable and great value holidays. 

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line Australia.

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P&O Cruises’ Latest Program Offers New Cruises Across Australia

Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises has launched its most exciting program yet, offering more short itineraries from cities around Australia, visits to new regional ports and its first Melbourne Cup trifecta, with three ships cruising to the racing event.

The 2015-16 program is on sale from April 28 and offers cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Auckland. 

In response to strong demand, the program features the cruise line’s biggest and most diverse range of P&OSeaBreaks with itineraries spanning two to four nights including new sailings to Melbourne and more cruises to the Queensland ports of Mooloolaba and Moreton Island. P&OSeaBreak fares start from $549* per person quad share for four-night cruises from Sydney to Queensland.

In early 2015, the cruise line will also offer its first short cruises from Brisbane to New South Wales’ famous wine region the Hunter Valley, while beautiful Eden on the state’s south coast will receive its inaugural visit from P&O Cruises’ during longer sailings from Sydney to Victoria and South Australia.

Meanwhile P&O Cruises’ has boosted its Melbourne program to nine cruises during February and March 2016 including a new 11-night Pacific Islands cruise, short breaks to Tasmania and Sydney and a food and wine cruise.  

Pacific Jewel will also sail on enhanced South Australia and Tasmania itineraries ranging from five to 11 nights and featuring visits to Kangaroo Island, Burnie, Port Arthur and Port Lincoln as well as a new port - the scenic fishing village of Portland on Victoria’s famed Great Ocean Road. Fares for Melbourne cruises start from $499* per person quad share for a three-night cruise to Burnie.

The cruise line’s expanded South Australian program will include a nine-night roundtrip cruise from Adelaide visiting Melbourne, Burnie, Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln and Portland, priced from $1199* per person quad share. 

The offerings from Brisbane also feature a new P&OExplorer itinerary ‘Mutiny on the Bounty’, which will see Pacific Dawn cruise to Tonga and Fiji via the home of the Bounty Mutineers, Pitcairn Island, as part of a 14-night cruise priced from $1499* per person quad share.

As the cruise line expands its P&OMainEvents itineraries, the entire fleet will cruise south for the race that stops a nation, with Pacific Dawn offering its inaugural seven-night Melbourne Cup itinerary from Brisbane, with fares from $999* per person quad share, including two full days in Melbourne to soak up the carnival atmosphere. 

Other event highlights include Australia Day cruises with Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel taking centre stage in Sydney Harbour and Pacific Dawn offering a scenic itinerary to the Whitsundays. Fares start from $579* per person quad share for a three-night cruise on Pacific Jewel or Pacific Pearl.

P&O Cruises will also offer a four-night itinerary to coincide with the 2015 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival and will return to Victoria for its third Australian Open in 2016 with Pacific

Pearl offering a five-night itinerary from Sydney to Melbourne including general admission to Melbourne Park, priced from $849* per person quad share.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line was ramping up its offerings in 2015-16, with more choices and more local ports than any other cruise line.

“Our new program gives travellers from all over Australia the chance to explore some of the most beautiful corners of our country and the neighbouring Pacific and experience our nation’s world class events with a plethora of P&OSeaBreaks, P&OIslands and P&OMainEvents on offer in 2015-16,” Ms Marshall said.

“Whether travellers are looking for a few nights at sea or a longer escape, there are lots of new ports and exciting holiday options available so we’re looking forward to welcoming even more Australians onboard.”

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

*subject to availability, conditions apply. All prices are per person quad share.

Information supplied by : P&O Cruises Australia.

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