Redesigned Britannia Club Balcony Staterooms and New Britannia Single Staterooms Will Offer Fine-Tuned Private Enclaves.

Cunard has revealed that Queen Mary 2’s redesigned Britannia Club Balcony staterooms and all-new Britannia Single staterooms will offer passengers more options and a more elegant, modern stateroom experience. 

Fresh design schemes and fine details will pay tribute to the original Queen Mary’s iconic art deco heritage while keeping this grand ocean liner at the forefront of luxury. 

During her extensive 25-day refit at the Blohm & Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany next year, Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 will receive a wide range of upgrades, including 30 new Britannia Club Balcony staterooms and 15 Britannia Single staterooms, as well as a comprehensive refurbishing of all pre-existing Britannia Club Balcony cabins. 

Cunard Director Angus Struthers said the number of cruisers choosing to travel alone was increasing and Cunard continued to focus on this expanding market. 

“Having already been introduced on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria, when our flagship re-enters service in June 2016 all three Cunard ships will offer single cabins,” Mr Struthers said.

Refreshed designs for Britannia Club and the new Britannia Single staterooms will include softer colour tones to enhance the feeling of space, as well as new contemporary carpet patterns inspired by the geometric diamond designs seen on the original Queen Mary.

“Our Britannia Club level of luxury really is one of the best kept secrets in travel. Guests enjoy an elevated experience onboard with large, well-appointed balcony staterooms with prime locations, Penhaligon’s toiletries and a pillow menu for the perfect night’s sleep. All of this and the freedom to dine when you choose in the dedicated Britannia Club Restaurant – the perfect setting for those who prefer a more intimate dining experience,” Mr Struthers said. “One of the many positives of the work we are undertaking on Queen Mary 2 will mean more guests will be able to travel Britannia Club and all will travel in a stateroom offering a sophisticated new look.”

Nine Britannia single cabins will be on Deck 2 and six larger single staterooms will be built on Deck 3L. New single cabins on port side Deck 2 will benefit from increased ceiling height and an illuminated coffered ceiling. New single cabins on port side Deck 3L will feature two unique circular windows with bench seat cushions and a central dressing console table.  

For more details on Cunard visit www.cunard.com, phone 132 441 or see a licensed travel agent.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Princess Cruises Premieres “Magic to Do” From  Award-Winning Composer Of Wicked Stephen Schwartz.

Princess Cruises has raised the curtain on its new musical revue titled Magic to Do from the Oscar, Grammy and Tony award-winning composer of Wicked, Pippin and Godspell Stephen Schwartz. 

The show, a cruise industry first, premiered onboard Crown Princess this week to rave reviews at a special event with Schwartz and the show’s creative team at the Port of Los Angeles.  Schwartz’s first production for a cruise line, Magic to Do celebrates his lifelong fascination with magic and combines thrilling illusions with some of his most famous songs, such as Magic to Do from Pippin and Defying Gravity from Wicked.

The show also includes a brand new song written exclusively for Princess called A Little Magic. 

Brought to life by a vibrant cast, imaginative costumes and make-up, stunning scenic designs and baffling illusions, Magic to Do is now running in the Princess Theatre onboard Crown Princess and debuts aboard Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess later this year. 

The partnership between Schwartz and Princess Cruises includes a multi-year collaboration to oversee the creative development of a total of four new musicals to debut across the fleet over the next several years.  A Magic to Do trailer can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/83uApBb5ItQ    Additional information about Princess’ new partnership with Stephen Schwartz can be found at http://www.princess.com/schwartz

Caption information: Scenes from Princess Cruises’ new onboard musical Magic to Do, which debuted this week onboard Crown Princess.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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P&O To Make History As Australian Stars Name Pacific Aria And Pacific Eden By Twitter.

In a social media first, P&O Cruises has revealed that its latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, will be officially named by singer Jessica Mauboy and actress Kate Ritchie – via Twitter.

Announcing the identity of the godmothers, P&O Cruises said the popular Australian personalities would both tweet the official naming words in a spectacular dual christening ceremony on Fort Denison as the two ships sail either side of the Sydney Harbour landmark on November 25.

The social media launch will also see the naming posted simultaneously on the godmothers’ Facebook and Instagram accounts and shared by P&O Cruises across its platforms. 

Ann Sherry, CEO for Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, said the cruise line was thrilled that two famous Australians had agreed to name the cruise line’s latest ships.

“Both Jess and Kate are well known and well-loved around the country. They epitomise modern Australia and really embody the new look and feel of P&O Cruises so we are delighted they will be naming these very special ships – and in such a modern way,” Ms Sherry said.

“It will be a history-making day – we will have five ships on Sydney Harbour, a dual christening and we’ll be officially naming the ships via Twitter, which we believe is a world first.”

The ships’ naming ceremony – which will see Jessica Mauboy name Pacific Aria and Kate Ritchie name Pacific Eden – will be a highlight of P&O’s history-making Five Ship Spectacular on Sydney Harbour on November 25.  

The day will begin with the cruise line’s five-ship fleet creating a V formation off the Heads of Sydney Harbour early in the morning, as they meet for the first time.

The ships will then enter the Harbour single file, with Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden following their three big sisters. As they reach the centre of the Harbour around 8.30am, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will sail either side of Fort Denison, where their godmothers will name them and Champagne bottles will be smashed on their bows.

The five ships will then berth in the Harbour, with 25 artists performing live concerts onboard for guests in the afternoon – including Jessica Mauboy on Pacific Aria. The ships will sail from Sydney in the evening following a spectacular fireworks display for Sydneysiders at 8.45pm.

Jessica Mauboy is an award-winning singer who grew up in Darwin in Australia’s north and shot to stardom in 2006 after appearing on the television show Australian Idol.  Her debut 2008 album “Been Waiting” scored double platinum sales and yielded seven ARIA Award nominations. She has since won two ARIAs and has been nominated again for this year’s ARIA awards.

Kate Ritchie is one of Australia's best loved actresses, having spent 20 years as a lead on Home and Away, a role which earned her two Gold and three Silver Logies. Kate currently co-hosts the ACRA winning Nova’s Kate, Tim & Marty national drive show alongside Tim Blackwell and Marty Sheargold. Previously she co-hosted the extremely popular breakfast radio show on Nova 969 with Merrick and Rosso throughout 2008 and 2009 and appeared on Underbelly: A Tale of Two Cities. Kate has been the host and narrator of Don't Tell the Bride, she has starred alongside Shaun Micallef and Kat Stewart in the drama Mr & Mrs Murder and in Peter Helliar's project, It's A Date. 

Two Australian charities will also be the beneficiaries of the event with P&O Cruises making a financial contribution to charities nominated by the Godmothers.

Jessica Mauboy has chosen the Indigenous Literacy Foundation as her charity for the event while Kate Ritchie is yet to announce her charity.

Regarded as game changers for the Australian cruise industry, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will feature a fresh, contemporary design and a host of special features from multiple restaurants and a lush private dining room to a resort-style swimming pool deck, with sheer curtains and private cabanas.

For more details of P&O’s Five Ship Spectacular on November 25 visit www.pocruises.com.au/5ships

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Princess Cruises to Name New China-Based Cruise Ship Majestic Princess 

Princess Cruises announced today that its ship now under construction, a sister ship to Royal Princess and Regal Princess, will be named Majestic Princess. The new ship will be based in China year-round beginning in summer 2017 and become the first vessel built specifically for Chinese guests incorporating a unique blend of international and Chinese features. “Royal Princess and Regal Princess were named after iconic previous vessels, while Majestic Princess will carry a name that was chosen by our global employees,” said Jan Swartz, President of Princess Cruises. “The name Majestic Princess is well suited to the Princess Cruises experience in China, and she will offer a truly magnificent experience to our Chinese guests,” added Ms Swartz.

Befitting her dedication to the Chinese market, Majestic Princess will also carry a Chinese name on the hull, 盛世公主号 (Shèng Shì Gōng Zhǔ Haò) – an interpretation selected by Carnival plc’s China employees, which has the suggestive meaning of “Grand World” or “Grand Spirit.”

The 143,000-tonne vessel, Majestic Princess, is being built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.  She will be homeported in Shanghai, carrying 3560 guests for cruises to Japan and Korea, and will offer many of the special features that have made Royal Princess and Regal Princess so popular and distinctive. These include a dramatic multi-storey atrium serving as the social hub of the ship; the unique over-the-ocean SeaWalk - a glass-floor walkway extending more than eight metres beyond the edge of the ship; the Princess Live! interactive studio; and the special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds guests in a curtain of light.  

“We’re excited that Shanghai will be welcoming this newest, most advanced addition to the Princess fleet, as it represents our brand’s long-term commitment to the continuing growth of the China market,” Ms Swartz said.

Majestic Princess will offer the international flavour of cruising with Princess, drawn from the brand’s award-winning expertise as the world’s leader in premium destination cruising.  The ship’s cuisine will span the globe, serving authentic dishes from Italy, France, North and South America, Southeast Asia, Japan and China – all freshly prepared onboard.  Guests will enjoy a festival celebrating dance, music and crafts of exotic cultures; an array of international guest entertainers; and Las Vegas-style production shows starring a cast of singers and dancers from around the world. 

“Every day, around the world, our guests create lifelong memories from authentic experiences while enjoying freshly made cuisine designed to bring each destination to life,” Ms Swartz added. “Majestic Princess will allow us to bring the best the world has to offer to more Chinese guests, for an unparalleled premium and international vacation, inspired by our passion for the many places we sail.”

Like all Princess cruises in China, Majestic Princess will showcase the brand’s exclusive Princess Class experience, designed specifically for the Chinese market. Delivered by the ship’s extensively trained international crew, these Princess Class enhancements enrich the travel experience of each cruise guest: authentic, classic events like the World Leaders Dinner and Traditional English Afternoon Tea; special culinary experiences such as the Lobster Grill, Ultimate Balcony Dining, and an ocean-view hot pot dinner option; and an unparalleled duty-free shopping experience, featuring leading designer brands.  

The ship will also offer Princess’ signature Movies Under the Stars, with the largest outdoor screen at sea, and the exciting Princess Water Colour Fantasy fountain and light show.  Accommodations will be configured to appeal to families and multi-generational travellers; all outside staterooms will have private balconies.  Additional details about the new ship’s features and deployment schedule will be announced over the coming months.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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3,2,1…GO! ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES KICKS OFF ITS BIGGEST, BOLDEST, RECORD-BREAKING SEASON YET

3: All three Royal Caribbean brands in Australia for the first time with Azamara Club Cruises’ debut

2: Voyager-Class ships based in Sydney, Australia including new ship Explorer of the Seas

1: Legend of the Seas – the first Brisbane-based ship for RCI

Today marks the start of RCL Cruises Australia’s biggest, boldest season yet, with the arrival of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the  Seas to Sydney – the first of seven of the biggest, youngest and most exceptional cruise ships to sail local waters this summer. 

For the first time ever, all three RCL Cruises brands will be based down under, with Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and new arrival Azamara Club Cruises offering a range of 95 itineraries around Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia. 

RCL will carry a quarter of a million guests over the season with almost 60,000 of them coming from overseas countries including the USA, Canada, UK and Germany. 

“Today marks the start of a record-breaking season in which we will double our guest capacity, introduce a new cruise brand to the region and offer a total of seven ships – around 20 percent of RCL’s global fleet,” said Gavin Smith, Regional Vice President, RCL Cruises Asia-Pacific.

“For nearly a decade we have delivered the world’s biggest and best ships to Australians, offering them a cutting edge cruise product and a style of holiday that they would previously have had to travel overseas to experience,” Smith continued.

Already an Australian favourite, the destination-focused Azamara Club Cruises brand will sail in Australia for the very first time this summer.  Normally based in Europe and Asia, the 686-passenger Azamara Quest arrives in Darwin on 28 December as the first of three new ships to join the local fleet this season.  

Sydney’s biggest summer cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, will welcome Explorer of the Seas, which sets sail from Barcelona today en route to Sydney.  The 3,800-passenger megaliner will take the title of Australia’s largest cruise ship from her twin sister, Voyager of the Seas, and the ships will meet in beautiful Sydney Harbour on Saturday evening on 28 November for a historic big-ship harbour rendezvous.

Both Voyager Class vessels are the largest cruise ships based in the southern hemisphere and have recently emerged from a combined USD$160 million bow-to-stern facelift, equipping them with brand new features never seen before at sea in Australasia such as the FlowRider surf simulator and revolutionary Interior “Virtual” Balconies.

Finally, Royal Caribbean International will base a ship in Brisbane for the first time.  From 8 December, Queenslanders will have their very own world class ship, Legend of the Seas, when she commences sailing from Portside Wharf, Hamilton with no less than 15 itineraries.  

The seven ships will make 185 port calls and 85 turnarounds in Australia this season, which is expected to inject more than $185 million into the local economy in passenger spending alone. 

Key Dates

Friday 9 Oct Radiance of the Seas: Arrives Sydney, kicks off RCL’s cruise season

Wednesday 21 Oct Celebrity Solstice: Arrives Sydney, starts Celebrity Cruises’ local season 

Thursday 5 Nov Voyager of the Seas: Arrives Sydney, starts local season

Friday 13 Nov Explorer of the Seas: Arrives in Fremantle (Perth), first ever Australian port

Tuesday 17 Nov Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Adelaide call

Thursday 19 Nov Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Melbourne call

Saturday 28 Nov Sydney Harbour Rendezvous: Explorer of the Seas is welcomed to Sydney for the first time by twin sister Voyager of the Seas 

Wednesday 2 Dec Legend of the Seas: Arrives in Darwin – first Australian call for season 

Tuesday 8 Dec Legend of the Seas: Arrives in Brisbane to start maiden season and Royal Caribbean’s first season sailing out of Brisbane

Monday 28 Dec Azamara Quest: Arrives in Darwin – first ever Australian port call for Azamara Club Cruises 

Monday 4 Jan Azamara Quest: Maiden Cairns call

Tuesday 5 Jan Azamara Quest: Departs Cairns on first ever local voyage

Monday 11 Jan Azamara Quest: Maiden call in Brisbane

Thursday 14 Jan Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Sydney

Monday 18 Jan Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Melbourne

Wednesday 20 Jan Azamara Quest: Maiden arrival Hobart

Saturday 13 Feb Azamara Quest: Departs Sydney on last local sailing

Saturday 19 Mar Explorer of the Seas: Maiden Hobart call

Tuesday 29 Mar Celebrity Millennium: seventh and final ship of the season arrives in Sydney

Sunday 3 Apr Radiance of the Seas: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Saturday 9 Apr Celebrity Solstice: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Saturday 16 Apr Voyager of the Seas: Departs Sydney, completing local season

Wednesday 20 Apr Legend of the Seas: Departs Brisbane, completing local season

Saturday 23 Apr Explorer of the Seas: Departs Sydney, wrapping up the 2015/16 international cruise season

For more information visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au , www.celebritycruises.com.au or www.azamaraclubcruises.com, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent. 

Information supplied by : Royal Caribbean International.

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Take Care Of YourSelfie Around The World

With Celebrity Cruises And Randi Zuckerberg

Modern luxury cruise line introduces new wellness shore excursions

curated by digital trailblazer and New York Times best-selling author.

 Holiday-goers can power up while powering down with Celebrity Cruises’ new, exclusive Take Care of YourSelfie shore excursions. In partnership with New York Times best-selling author and digital trailblazer Randi Zuckerberg, the exclusive Take Care of YourSelfie wellness program – first introduced in early 2015 – has been expanded to offer specially designed holistic experiences on land.

“With this new collection of shore excursions, finding a tech-life balance now can happen on land and at sea,” explained Dot Complicated founder Randi Zuckerberg. “When on holiday, many of us have grown accustomed to literally experiencing a destination through a digital lens. These active experiences ensure that there is an opportunity to be fully engaged and present during your modern luxury holiday.”

“In our very connected culture, it can be challenging to take time and disconnect while on vacation, even for a moment” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “We have loved working with Randi to combine our expertise with hers and provide more ways for guests to enjoy their holiday and enrich their mind, body and soul with the Take Care of YourSelfie program. Personally, I can’t wait to experience the new shore excursions, plus the incredible options from the curated spa and fitness menu that started it all.”

Celebrity Cruises guests can rejuvenate and explore destinations like a local with unique experiences –  such as Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Yoga, hydrobiking, cycling and canoeing – in regions including Australia, the Caribbean and Europe.

The seven new Take Care of YourSelfie shore excursions include:

·         Hot Spot – In Melbourne, Australia, guests can bathe and unwind as they soothe their tired hands and muscles in the natural thermal mineral waters at a local, award-winning coastal escape.

·         Power Core’d – On the Mediterranean waters in Ibiza, Spain, this guided Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Yoga experience allows guests to engage in a complete mind and body workout and connect with the sea – and not the internet.

Ultimate ESCape –Guests will discover firsthand the thousand faces of the city of Naples, Italy by land and sea as they canoe through the exquisite Neapolitan blue waters and take a panoramic drive.

·         Morning SHIFT – Foregoing electronic devices, guests shift from the traditional fast pace of their routine with a light, guided morning jog through scenic Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

·         Power Cycle – Guests “sign off” from technology and explore the Roi’s Eco Park Lagoon on a hydrobike while burning calories and enjoying a tranquil, environmentally friendly ride through the crystal blue waters in Falmouth, Jamaica.

·         Reiki Recharge – Passengers rejuvenate by finding their Zen during a trainer-led meditation and yoga experience that takes place on the beautiful white-sand beaches of Roatan, Honduras.

·         Flash, Drive, and Ride – Guests unplug and embark on a panoramic bicycle tour of Valletta, Malta for an up-close look at the history and culture of Malta.

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

About Take Care of YourSelfie spa and fitness experiences

Celebrity Cruises first launched Take Care of YourSelfie in January 2015, unveiling spa and fitness experiences curated by Zuckerberg and available exclusively at Canyon Ranch SpaClub onboard Celebrity ships.  The wellness treatments and services designed to invigorate passengers include:  “fACEial Time,”  which effectively treats skin care needs related to overexposure to computer and digital screens; “Texticure,” created with text-weary hands in mind; “Get wrAPPed,” which helps remove toxins associated with tech-related stress; “Control ALT Delight,” developed for guests to stretch and flex out of a texting crouch with yoga and T-Spheres; and “InstaGlow,” a detoxifying, cleansing body scrub that draws out impurities and encourages vacationers to disconnect and be free in the moment.

Celebrity Cruises AU & NZ Facebook: facebook.com/celebritycruisesausnz 

Celebrity Cruises AU & NZ YouTube:  youtube.com/user/celebritycruisesaunz

Information supplied by: Celebrity Cruises.

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Carnival Australia Announces Local Fleet Changes As Australian Demand For Cruising Continues To Grow.

Carnival Australia today announced changes to its local cruise line deployments to cater for the growing popularity of cruise holidays from Australian ports.

Under the changes, Princess Cruises’ Australian-based Dawn Princess will move to the P&O Cruises Australia fleet in May 2017.  At 77,000 tonnes, the 2000-guest Dawn Princess will be the largest superliner to sail under the P&O Cruises’ flag.

Meanwhile the 108,000-tonne Golden Princess will remain in Australian waters throughout 2017, alongside Sun Princess and Sea Princess.

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said the move reflected increased demand for cruise holidays in local waters and continued investment in the P&O Cruises brand.

“Australia is the world’s fastest growing cruise market, so as the biggest cruise operator Down Under we’re delighted to be expanding our local presence even further,” Ms Sherry said.  

“These fleet changes will help us further increase the range of exciting cruise options on offer to Australians and continue to meet local demand for holidays at sea.”

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said Dawn Princess would be transformed and renamed before her transfer to the P&O Cruises’ fleet.

“This ship is a great addition to P&O Cruises’ fleet, with her larger size opening up opportunities for new onboard product and experiences,” Mr Myrmell said.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line was pleased to be able to offer its local guests more itineraries on its 2600-guest Golden Princess, with the ship based in Australia throughout 2017.

“One of Golden Princess’ key sailings for the year will be a 75-night Circle Pacific itinerary taking holidaymakers on a roundtrip cruise from Australia to Asia, Alaska and America,” Mr Allison said.

“This will be the first time we’ve offered a world cruise from Australia on a Grand-class Princess ship so we think it will be a winner.”

More details of P&O Cruises’ 2017 itineraries and the ship transfer will be announced at a later date.

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

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P&O Cruises Offers Winning Trifecta Of Guest Talent As Entire Fleet Races To The Melbourne Cup.

With its entire fleet cruising south for ‘the race that stops the nation’, P&O Cruises is offering a winning field of onboard talent to ensure guests have the ultimate Melbourne Cup cruise experience.

For the first time, all three P&O ships will dock at Station Pier for this year’s Melbourne Cup, with Pacific Dawn offering its inaugural Cup cruise from Brisbane.

With close to 6000 punters to entertain, the cruise line is upping the odds across its three ships with popular Australian personalities including Carmelo Pizzino (Pacific Jewel) from Dancing With The Stars, author and radio personality Bianca Dye (Pacific Pearl), and tv presenter Zoe Sheridan (Pacific Dawn) joining their maiden Cup cruises to host P&O Cruises’ Myer Fashions at Sea events. 

Fashion designer and stylist Katie Perry (Pacific Pearl), stylist Noami Bell (Pacific Dawn) and Kylie Sultana from the Style Vine (Pacific Jewel), will also sail on their first Cup cruises, offering styling workshops and taking part in the onboard fashion parade. 

Fascinator-making classes will be hosted by award-winning milliner Kathleen Watson (Pacific Dawn), Melbourne Cup Ambassador and renowned Australian milliner Kim Fletcher (Pacific Jewel) and Serena Lindeman (Pacific Pearl), who created the infamous “million-dollar hat” which took out the inaugural Fashions on the Field.

Other special guests include legendary Melbourne Cup jockeys John Marshall and Michael Clarke (Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel), owner of Cup winning horse Rogan Josh, Wendy Green (Pacific Pearl and Pacific Dawn); and Bart Cummings’ Flemington track rider Joe Agresta (Pacific Dawn).

Meanwhile Aussie entertainers Normie Rowe (Pacific Dawn), The Glenn Shorrock Band (Pacific Jewel) and The Tap Pack (Pacific Pearl) will perform onboard.

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said ships had been cruising to the Cup since 1969 and they remained one of the cruise line’s most popular annual offerings.

“Australians love cruising and sports and by combining the two, we know we’re backing a winner - that’s why we’re sending our entire fleet to the Melbourne Cup. For the first time, the race that stops the nation will also bring P&O to a historic standstill in Melbourne,” Mr Myrmell said.

“On top of our great program of onboard talent, we are excited to be partnering with Myer again with the Spring Carnival experts providing style inspiration for all our guests including fashion parades of the latest racing trends and Myer gift card giveaways,” Mr Myrmell added.

With its 6000 guests accounting for about 5 per cent of punters on the day, P&O Cruises is again offering its own VIP area at Flemington - the P&O Cruises’ Lawn. 

Pacific Pearl and Pacific Jewel will depart Sydney on October 31 on their six-night Cup cruises, while Pacific Dawn’s seven-night maiden Cup cruise will depart Brisbane on October 31. 

To join the cruise race to the Cup next year, fares start from $999* per person quad share on Pacific Dawn’s seven-night cruise departing Brisbane on October 31, 2016, including transfers and entry into Flemington on Cup day, plus onboard meals, entertainment and activities.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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New Look Carnival Spirit Serves Up A Taste Of Native Australia

Carnival Cruise Line’s Aussie superliner Carnival Spirit is all set for a big summer of cruising with a ship load of exciting new features including a bespoke cocktail prescribed especially for Australian cruising.

With a spritz of lemon myrtle and a dash of strawberry gum tree essence, The Red Centre is the cruise line’s first dedicated Australian cocktail and has been designed to appeal to local palettes while also offering international guests a unique taste of Australia. The cocktail is a special addition to the menu at the apothecary-themed Alchemy Bar, one of seven bars and restaurants added to Carnival Spirit during a recent dry dock.

The Australian cocktail was specially crafted by Carnival Cruise Line VP Beverage Operations Eddie Allen, who has overseen the rollout of the new Alchemy bars across the fleet.

“Creating The Red Centre was a fun challenge as it introduced a whole new world of possible ingredients. Lemon myrtle is a great flavour to work with and I’ve certainly never used a gum tree essence before. It was a real thrill to experiment with native Australian ingredients to create something exclusively for our Aussie guests. The end result is a uniquely refreshing and zesty cocktail,” Mr Allen said.

With master mixologists handcrafting cocktails to suit individual tastes using premium, fresh ingredients, in addition to its offering of barrel-aged cocktails, Alchemy Bar is already proving a hit onboard Carnival Spirit. 

Following a multi-million dollar refit, the superliner, which sails from Sydney year-round, now offers 25 bars, lounges and dining options including Californian celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s new onboard burger joint, the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Rum Bar and an authentic Mexican-style beach cantina experience at the BlueIguana Cantina and Tequila Bar.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said Carnival Spirit also had some exciting new entertainment offerings, with Dive-In Movies added to the top deck as well as a fresh roster of Playlist Productions shows including 88 Keys Rock’ n’ Roll Piano Show; a high tech recreation of classic beach flicks in Getaway Island; Epic Rock, a celebration of 70s and 80s rockers; and a lycra extravaganza, 80s Pop to the Max.

“The new shows will blow our guests away with their dazzling, high tech visuals and high energy performances. In the case of Getaway Island, it’s a real feast for the senses with new “snifferific” technology bringing tropical scents like hibiscus and Pina Colada into the theatre as well as a fun continuation into the RedFrog Pub,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

Carnival Spirit has also received some of sister ship Carnival Legend’s tried and tested favourite features including RedFrog Pub, Bonsai Sushi, the Cherry on Top lolly shop and Hasbro the Game Show.  For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see a travel agent or visit www.carnival.com.au

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia

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Less Than Three Months To Go Until Aussie Debut Of Azamara Club Cruises.

Details of exclusive “AzAmazing Evenings” revealed

6 October 2015 – Boutique cruise brand Azamara Club Cruises is excitedly counting down to the debut of its first ever season in Australian waters.  The 686-guest Azamara Quest arrives in Darwin, the brand’s first ever Australian port, in less than three months’ time on 28 December 2015. 

“We cannot wait for Azamara to arrive in Australia. We’re now the third largest market for the brand and we know that more growth will come with Azamara sailing from our doorstep,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Azamara Club Cruises Australia. 

“It has been a number of years in the making and Azamara Quest will sail down under for two months.  She will offer a range of five unique itineraries that feature all of the usual hallmarks of Azamara’s cruises: more onboard inclusions such as beverages, gratuities and self-service laundry; longer stays in port; more overnight calls and exclusive AzAmazing Evenings,” continued Adam.  

Every Azamara Club cruise offers an exclusive, complimentary and bespoke AzAmazing Evening to showcase a destination and its culture during the voyage. With only three months to go until the maiden arrival, Azamara Club Cruises has announced further details of the unique events to be held in Australian and New Zealand ports.  

Azamara has revealed that guests sailing on the 16-night Australia & New Zealand cruise which departs Sydney on 15 January 2016 and sails to Auckland, will be treated to a night with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra in Hobart on the wharf during her overnight stay in the city. The evening begins with a warm welcome by the Tasmanian Police Pipe Band which has been performing together in Australia and around the world since 1969. After a rousing tattoo, guests will listen to the hospitable welcome of local dignitaries and hear the enchanting sounds of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Established in 1948 and a Tasmanian icon, the orchestra sets the tone for Tasmanian culture on a global scale. Afterwards, guests also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with orchestra members and the conductor before returning to the comforts of their ship docked in port for the evening. 

Azamara has also unveiled the exclusive AzAmazing Evening event during the 13-night New Zealand sailing from Auckland to Sydney on 31 January 2016, which will allow guests to discover the rich culture of the Maori people during an evening of entertainment at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington. Guests will be welcomed to the museum by traditional Maori chiefs before MC Temuera Morrison, best known for roles in Star Wars, opens the night’s performance and his distinctive voice leads into entertainment by the Modern Maori Quartet and a cultural performance, including the haka.

Other AzAmazing Evening events include an evening at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin as part of the 14-night Bali and Barrier Reef sailing, departing Indonesia on 22 December and arriving in Cairns for the beginning of Azamara Quest’s maiden season. In Darwin, the cruise line’s first Australian port, guests

will meet the world’s largest captive reptile collection, including nearly 200 saltwater crocodiles. The can’t-miss moment of the night is the Cage of Death. As a handful of the ship’s brave officers drop into a protected tank, giant crocodiles — some of the largest in captivity — approach for a little nose-to-nose time. The unique event continues with a ceremonial demonstration by representatives of the Larrakia people. As the ceremony winds down, guests can hold some of the smaller reptiles that make their home at this incredible adventure centre.  

On the 10-night Barrier Reef sailing from Cairns to Sydney, guests will enjoy a private night of spectacle and entertainment at historic Fort Scratchley in Newcastle. Overlooking Nobbys Head, home to the famous beach and lighthouse, the fortress boasts panoramic ocean, coastline, harbour and Newcastle city views. Settled by convicts in the early 19th century, guests will be mesmerised by the historic fort while being entertained by local artists including James Morrison, one of the nation’s most iconic jazz instrumentalists, before a splendid fireworks display caps off the enchanting evening.

During Azamara Quest’s last local sailing, the 17-night Great Barrier Reef cruise from Sydney to Bali, guests will be treated to a traditional aboriginal cultural performance from the Tjapukai people in Cairns at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Known as “the people of the rainforest,” the Tjapukai are the world’s oldest living culture. Guests will be able to discover and experience their history and ways during this night of music, dance and cultural talks. A tribal elder kicks off the evening with a warm welcome to Australia and an introduction to the values of his people. Listen as musicians play the didgeridoo, while dancers perform rhythmic moves that have been passed down for hundreds of generations. Afterwards, indulge in local desserts, cheese and fruit or explore the park.

The cruise line has also recently confirmed it will deploy a ship to the region for another two seasons, with Azamara Journey coming for the first time in 2017 and Azamara Quest returning in 2018, following extensive revitalisations that will see the ships undergo multimillion dollar facelifts.

Azamara Quest’s Christmas and New Year 14-night cruise, departing Bali on 22 December 2015, starts from $3,979 for the first guest and $1,990 for the second guest in an interior stateroom, when booked by 31 October 2015.

About Azamara Club Cruises

With smaller ships that are able to go to places other cruise ships can’t, Azamara Club differentiates itself - and gains loyal fans - by making destinations the star of the show. It does this by offering longer stays, more overnight calls and night touring, which gives travellers the opportunity to truly experience a destination - taking in the sights, sounds and flavours of local cultures in every port. Azamara Club’s Insider Access takes guests behind the scenes at heritage estates, family farms, local shops and art galleries. Guests enjoy quiet conversations, shared stories and laughter with their hosts, gaining valuable insights and appreciation of local culture. 

Nights and Cool Places are exclusive after-dinner experiences in small, intimate groups, ranging from a harbour yacht experience to a private gallery tour with a famous local artist.  This year, Azamara Club has also launched its highly-anticipated Cruise Global, Eat Local program, featuring carefully curated dining experiences around the globe. Azamara does the sleuthing to lead guests to places the locals frequent, from a traditional family trattoria to a dim sum feast.

While destinations are the highlight, what’s onboard also keeps guests coming back for more. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest guests receive exceptional and personal service and enjoy fine cuisine and boutique wines from around the world. More is included in each cruise – such as beverages, gratuities, self-service laundry, English Butler service for suite guests and shuttle transportation to city centres in ports, where available.  

Azamara Club also recently annouced its new Exclusive Nights in Private Places program, offering an evening of luxurious private pampering, dining and sleeping under the stars on the private Thalassotherapy deck. This reservation-only experience for two includes private butler service, champagne and canapés, a beautiful buffet and seafood and meats cooked over a sizzling hot stone grill. A plush outdoor bed can be opened to the stars or enclosed with a roof panel and curtains.

To make a booking or for further information visit www.azamaraclubcruises.com, phone 1800 754 500 or contact your local travel agent. Travel professionals can call 1300 754 500 or visit www.cruisingpower.com

Information Supplied By: Azamara Club Cruises.

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She's On Her Way!! Explorer Of The Seas, Soon To Be Crowned Largest Ship To Sail Local Waters, Has Begun The Long Voyage To Our Shores.

Twin sister to Aussie favourite Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas is today departing Southampton and will sail for 42 days through Europe and via Dubai, India and Asiabefore arriving in Perth - her first Aussie port – on 13 November.

The action packed megaliner will then depart Perth on a 16-night tour around the bottom end of Australia and New Zealand, before arriving to her new home, Sydney, on 28 November. Sydney-siders will be in for a treat on the 28^th as Explorer of the Seas’ twin sister (and second largest cruise ship based in Australia) Voyager of the Seas will welcome her big sister home – with both ships meeting in a historic Sydney Harbour rendezvous.

Below is a shot of Explorer of the Seas meeting Anthem of the Seas (and an Isle of White ferry) in Southampton.

Explorer of the Seas arrives for her maiden Australian season fresh from a multimillion dollar makeover in April this year. She is now jam-packed with a host of new features to match her popular twin sister Voyager of the Seas, including a FlowRider surf machine, three new specialty restaurants, two new bars, new stateroom categories including industry-first interior Virtual Balcony staterooms with real time sights of the sea and new Panoramic staterooms with floor-to-ceiling wrap-around windows, as well as a complete refresh of all the public spaces and staterooms onboard.

Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas both also boast signature Royal Caribbean features including the iconic ice-skating rink, rock climbing wall, a full-size basketball and sports court, and the Royal Promenade – an interior boulevard that runs nearly the length of the ship flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques where spectacular parades and evening dance parties are held.

For more on Explorer Of The Seas and her sailings you can visit : www.royalcaribbean.com.au

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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Sea Princess To Sport New Venues After Referbishment.

Princess Cruises has announced details of Sea Princess’ upcoming refurbishment including the creation of a new sports bar – a first for the cruise line’s Australian-based fleet.

From weekly AFL and NRL matches through to the Australian Open, guests will be able to enjoy a wide range of great Australian sporting moments from the comfort of the new Legends bar, which will feature multiple LED screens.

With 14 varieties of beer available, including 10 local drops, plus darts, a pool table and foosball also on hand, Legends is set to become the perfect sporting retreat at sea.

Meanwhile, in a nod to the popular small bar scene, Sea Princess’ existing Premier Cru bar will be transformed into an intimate new whisky bar ‘The Nook’.  The move follows the overwhelming success of Princess’ first whisky bar launched on Dawn Princess in Australia earlier this year.

The Nook will feature Princess’ extensive international whisky menu, offering guests more than 60 whiskies from around the world, including the barman’s recommendations and daily flights.

Sea Princess’ multi-million dollar refurbishment, which will take place in Singapore from October 3 to 17, will also see the addition of a new Amuleto Café – offering great coffee and delicious cakes and sandwiches – as well as a major refurbishment of the Horizon Court dining area. 

On the ship’s top decks, a New Zealand Natural ice cream outlet will be created beside the superliner’s main pools, while new Australian BBQ offerings will be available from the poolside grill.

Guests will also be able to enjoy Princess’ new Beer and Wine Garden Festival experience during their cruise, following the successful launch of the concept on Dawn Princess earlier this year.

In addition, Sea Princess’ Wheelhouse Bar and Pizzeria will undergo a makeover, while her boutique areas and spa will be refurbished.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said local cruisers could also look forward to seeing some of the cruise line’s new initiatives onboard Sea Princess, including Discovery at Sea, a program of interactive onboard programs and exclusive shore excursions based on top-rated Discovery network properties.

“Sea Princess is already much-loved in Australia and we think the new venues and features onboard will make her even more popular,” Mr Allison said.

Sea Princess will sail from Brisbane from mid-November with cruises including a 10-night roundtrip to Papua New Guinea departing November 24 priced from 1399*per person twin-share.

For more information, see a licensed travel agent, call 13 24 88 or visit www.princess.com

*Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. 

Information supplied by : Princess Cruises.

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Cunard’s Queen Grill And Princess Grill Suites And Restaurants Ascend To New Level Of Luxury.

Queen Mary 2’s renowned Queens and Princess Grill suites and restaurants will undergo lavish enhancements as part of the iconic ocean liner’s major refurbishment next year. 

The Cunard Grills experience affords the line’s most selective guests the highest standards of comfort at sea with large, well-appointed suites, all with prime locations and private balconies. The enhancements, to be completed during the flagship’s major refit in May and June 2016, will raise the exclusive onboard experience to a new level of luxury, sharing company with the world’s finest five star hotels.

The exclusive benefits of the historic Grills experience will remain unchanged, but all 172 Grills suites on Queen Mary 2 will receive a comprehensive restyling, reconfigured to maximise space, with references to Cunard’s distinctive heritage, including subtle tones and elegant textures and with new luxury carpet throughout featuring design work inspired by rugs from the original Queen Mary.

The Grills dining experience will also be redesigned to elevate what is already the utmost in sophisticated dining at sea. Guests staying in Queen Mary 2’s Grill Suites enjoy open seating in the world-renowned Queens Grill or Princess Grill restaurants, both offering extensive a la carte offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The new Grill restaurants will each display a distinctive character through design, colour scheme and furnishings, and offer more intimate tables for two, increased space between tables for privacy, and additional loose tables for the ultimate in flexibility and ambiance. Spacious, beautifully redesigned dining rooms with rich, updated décor will be complemented by new culinary options and anchored by Cunard’s signature White Star Service.

Cunard’s Grills guests always enjoy deluxe accommodations and the opportunity to unwind in the comfort of intimate, sophisticated spaces reserved exclusively for them. Queens Grill guests are treated to the apex of luxury and personalised service, with a butler to tend to every need. Grills accommodation also includes thoughtful extras such as dedicated Grills concierge service for both Princess and Queens Grill guests, an amenity selection from bespoke heritage perfumer Penhaligon’s, and nine choices of pillow types.

The refurbished Queen Mary 2 will stay true to her classic art deco heritage, while offering updated, contemporary interiors considerately re-designed for today’s most discerning traveller.

Take a first look at Cunard's brand new #QM2Remastered Queens Grill and Princess Grill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjrVxpAu6hQ&feature=youtu.be

For more details on Cunard visit www.cunard.com, phone 132 441 or see a licensed travel agent. 

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone Took Time Out To Get A Taste Of Cruising in Sydney, Stepping On board Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess After It Arrival To Kick Off The Australian Cruising Season.

Celebrity chef Curtis Stone took time out to get a taste of cruising in Sydney yesterday, stepping aboard Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess after it arrived at Circular Quay to kick off the Australian summer cruise season.

It was the first chance for the Australian-born restaurateur and chef to experience a locally-based Princess ship since partnering with the cruise line.

The exclusive partnership will see culinary offerings designed by Curtis served across Princess’ 18-ship fleet, including “Crafted by Curtis” menu items which will be available in the main dining room across all ships and Curtis’ first restaurant at sea - SHARE - to be introduced on select Princess’ ships.

Australians will be among the first holidaymakers in the world to experience the new Crafted by Curtis items when they debut next month on Golden Princess, which will be arriving in Sydney on October 18 for her maiden season of cruising down under. Golden Princess will be based in Melbourne from the end of October through to April 2016. Meanwhile SHARE will be launched in Australian waters next April onboard the local Princess ship Sun Princess.

Yesterday’s arrival of Diamond Princess marks the start of Australia’s biggest summer cruise season yet. Sailing in from Asia, the 116,000-tonne, 290-metre long Diamond Princess will be based in Sydney for the next six months offering a series of roundtrip cruises to New Zealand, the South Pacific and around Australia. She departed last night on a 13-night cruise around New Zealand.

An image of Curtis Stone onboard Diamond Princess is attached. Please credit Damian Shaw.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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All Aboard As Carnival Australia Embarks On Record Summer Cruise Season.

The country’s largest cruise operator Carnival Australia has launched Australia’s biggest ever summer cruise season, with the Sydney arrival of Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess today.

Over the coming months, Carnival Australia will have an unprecedented 22 ships from its seven cruise lines sailing in local waters, including more than 170 calls to Australia’s cruising gateway, Sydney. 

Speaking at Circular Quay today, Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said the ships represented nearly a quarter of Carnival Corporation’s worldwide fleet.

Between them, the 22 ships will carry more than 530,000 cruisers – more than the population of Tasmania – over the summer period. In total the ships will make 538 turnaround and transit calls to Australian ports from today through to the end of April 2016 – 21 per cent more than in 2014-15 – adding significantly to the industry’s estimated $4 billion economic contribution.

“Each year for the past decade we have announced that another record summer cruise season is imminent and, with more than one million Australians a year now cruising, this year is no exception,” Ms Sherry said.

“In 2005-2006, we heralded a bumper cruise season with 10 ships from across our fleets sailing locally and making 141 calls to Australian ports. A decade on the number of ships has more than doubled and the number of local calls has more than tripled.” 

The 22 ships sailing in Australian waters represents a 10 per cent increase on last year’s summer season and includes P&O Cruises’ latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, which will join the cruise line’s existing three ships in November; six Princess Cruises’ ships, including Golden Princess on its maiden Australian deployment, and two Carnival Cruise Line ships. 

Meanwhile, three Holland America Line ships will sail here over summer including Noordam on its maiden visit, along with world voyage visits by all three Cunard Queens, two ships from P&O Cruises World Cruising and one Seabourn vessel.

Ms Sherry said one of the standout features of cruise season was the vast quantities of Australian primary produce that Carnival Australia’s brands purchase including around 1.5 million kilograms of beef annually.  

“The huge quantities we purchase in a typical year making the local agriculture sector one of the big winners from cruising,” Ms Sherry said. 

“Cruise tourism continues as the standout success of the Australian tourism sector and with every cruise season the number of suppliers who benefit from its long value chain continues to grow.”

Key purchases include:

Princess Cruises

* 1.4 million kg of fresh vegetables and 1.1 million kg of fresh fruit

* 188,083 kg of beef for local ships and 600,000 kg across the rest of Princess’ global fleet

* 57,196 kg of lamb locally (Princess Cruises exclusively uses Australian lamb globally)

* 226,425 dozen eggs, 600,000 individual yoghurts and 493,736 litres of milk

P&O Cruises Australia

* 1700 tonnes of fresh vegetables and 1200 tonnes of fresh fruit

* 380,000 kg of fresh seafood and 600,000 kg of poultry

* 580,000 bottles of wine (mostly Australian vintages)

Carnival Cruise Line

* 1.9 million kg of produce

* 600,000 litres of milk

* 300,000 kg of rice and 300,000 kg of flour

Holland America Line

* 18,232 kg of beef, 32,018 kg of poultry and 7099 kg of lamb

* 139,989 litres of milk products

* 545,040 individual eggs

Information supplied by: Carnival Australia.

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Style And Beauty Experts Give Carnival Guests The Inside Running For Melbourne Cup

Carnival Cruise Line has added two of Australia’s leading beauty and style experts to an already strong field of onboard talent during this year’s Melbourne Cup cruise on Carnival Spirit.

Stylist to the stars Penny Hunt and Beauticate website founder Sigourney Cantelo – both former Beauty Editors at Vogue – will ensure Carnival Spirit’s 2600 guests will be ready to put their best foot forward at Flemington for Cup day and Oaks day following a series of onboard beauty and style workshops, including a fashion presentation and the latest looks from high street brands. 

Having judged Fashions on the Field at Melbourne Cup, been the Fashion Editor for Men’s Style magazine, Fashion and Beauty Editor at Mindfood Magazine and a style consultant for the Seven Network, Penny will be in good stead to oversee Carnival Spirit’s fashion parade at sea. Hunt has styled many famed faces including Cate Blanchett and Asher Keddie as well as host of Australia’s Next Top Model, Jennifer Hawkins, and Sonia Kruger for Dancing With The Stars. She has appeared as a fashion and beauty expert for Channel Nine’s Morning Show and spent over six years glamming up TV’s best for the annual Logie awards.

Sigourney’s website Beauticate is devoted to the whos and how tos of style and make up featuring some of Australia’s most beautiful women such as Jessica Gomes, Samantha Harris, Jessica Hart, Delta Goodrem and Dannii Minogue. Sigourney will be onboard sharing her award-winning flair for beauty education. 

With a combined 30 years of beauty and style experience between them, Carnival Cruise Line Australia Vice President Jennifer Vandekreeke said the guest speakers would make sure punters were race ready. 

“As our guests cruise south to Melbourne they will be in very stylish and beautiful hands with Penny and Sigourney sharing a lifetime of style tips and beauty wisdom to ensure everyone looks and feels their best on Cup day,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

Ms Vandekreeke said the workshops would especially come in handy for the ladies with Carnival now also offering its guests a general admission ticket to Crown Oaks day during the ship’s extended four-day call to Melbourne - an experience not offered by any other cruise line.

Departing Sydney on October 30, Carnival Spirit’s eight-night Cup cruise features a “Halloween spooktacular” before racing fever takes over. Well-known race caller John Tapp will share his knowledge about Australia’s premier horse race during a Q&A session and a Cup-themed degustation dinner while popular racing personality Richie Callander will also return to Carnival Spirit this year to impart his top tips in the lead up to the big event. Other racing themed activities will include sweepstakes and a series of special dining experiences, including a Mad Hatters’ afternoon tea and post-Cup recovery brunch. Cruisers will also be able to participate in a Behind the Scenes tour of the Cup at Flemington. 

Fares on the eight-night roundtrip Melbourne Cup cruise start from $1299* per person twin share and include entry into Flemington for the Cup and Oaks day races, transfers on Cup day, plus onboard meals, entertainment and activities. 

For an additional cost and subject to availability, guests can upgrade their ticket at both race days to the Lawn Stand, The Precinct, The Village, Makybe Diva Marquee or The Rose Room with some VIP packages including food and drink. 

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

*subject to availability, conditions apply

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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P&O Cruises Adds A Modern Australian Taste To Cruising With New Restaurant Offerings

P&O Cruises has unveiled the menus for its two new restaurants, Angelo’s and Dragon Lady, which will add an international flavour to its latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, when they join the cruise line’s fleet in November. 

With their Italian and pan-Asian offerings, the two new dining options will bring a relaxed sophistication to the contemporary cuisine served onboard the ships, which have been heralded as game changers for the local cruise industry.

Taking its design inspiration from Angelo Frontoni, one of Italy’s best-known photographers, Angelo’s offers a taste of la dolce vita, while Dragon Lady will create an evocative Oriental dining experience with dark timbers and moody lighting complementing its Asian cuisine.  

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said the new restaurants reflected the cruise line’s celebration of modern Australian cuisine with influences taken from around the world.

“The menu at Angelo’s is first for us and a move away from the traditional trattoria style menus towards more contemporary Italian dining. We've considered a mix of classic Italian dishes in the menu but also added a very modern take that incorporates the latest trends in Italian dining,” Mr Myrmell said.  

The result is a robust menu includes traditional favourites like Linguini Pasta Vongole and Eight-hour Veal Ossobucco Gremolata as well as modern specialities like Sicilian-style Fremantle Sardines using fine Australian produce.

Meanwhile the atmosphere at Dragon Lady is exotic and seductive, and brings together a modern Asian menu that spans Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Indonesian and Indian cuisines. 

Highlights on the Dragon Lady menu include favourites such as Gaeng Daeng Creamy Chicken Soup and Tempura-crusted Uramaki Sushi as well as a host of exciting new dishes, including Singapore-style Soft Shell Crab, Kung Pao Masterstock Slow-cooked Beef Cheeks and a Salted 70% Dark Chocolate Cake. 

Mr Myrmell said the two new restaurants were in keeping with the modern Australian flavour of the ships and will be available for a nominal fee.  Bringing together tastes from around the world, other dining options onboard Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will include the exciting new international marketplace The Pantry, the Waterfront Restaurant and Luke Mangan’s Salt grill, a favourite across P&O Cruises’ Australian fleet. 

“Australians have a wonderfully broad palate - they like to eat different foods and try new experiences when they are on holiday, so we think the wide range of dining options on Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will really appeal,” he said.

Both restaurants are exclusively available on Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden.  

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Princess Cruises Kindles Love Stories

Princess Cruises has coupled with Amazon’s online romance community Kindle Love Stories to offer guests three free, original stories to enjoy during their cruise holidays as well as special sailings with bestselling romance authors. 

From October, Princess Cruises’ guests and Kindle users, including those using a Kindle app on any device, will be able to download the free stories at www.amazon.com/allamour

The short love stories, written by well-known romance writers Carolyn Brown, Heather Burch and Barbara Longley, were inspired by their own Princess cruise experiences sailing to the beautiful Caribbean. 

The Princess Cruises-inspired romance stories include Kiss Me Maybe by Heather Burch, To Catch a Bouquet by Carolyn Brown and Once Upon a Night at Sea by Barbara Longley.

The three authors, along with bestselling author Linda Lael Miller, will join a five-day Eastern Caribbean cruise onboard Regal Princess, which departs Fort Lauderdale on November 3, 2015. Guests onboard will enjoy meet-and-greets as well as book club discussions with the authors, who will also offer book signings. Fares on this special voyage start at $659* per person. 

Princess Cruises Vice President Stuart Allison said the new partnership with Kindle Love Stories was a perfect match.

“We strive to provide engaging experiences for our guests and we know they love to read, especially while on holiday,” Mr Allison said. 

“As part of our newly relaunched Princess Book Club, avid readers will be able participate in exciting onboard events and enjoy great stories inspired by a Princess cruise.”

Kindle Love Stories Marketing Manager Laura Hoffman said Kindle Love Stories was a place for romance readers to engage with their favourite books and authors. 

“We’re so excited to be collaborating with Princess Cruises to bring that experience in-person with these events,” Ms Hoffman said.

For more information about the Kindle Love Stories events, visit http://www.princess.com/specialevents.

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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Who Wants To Be A Cruise Millionaire? 

P&O Cruises Celebrates 4 Million Passengers With $4Million Splash   

P&O Cruises has announced it will give four of its guests the chance to win $1 million* each in an unprecedented celebration of its four million passenger milestone.

In a bonanza for travellers, the cruise line will also give away $4 million* in onboard credits for new bookings over the coming weeks.

The promotion is the biggest ever undertaken by P&O and reflects the surging demand for cruise holidays in Australia and New Zealand with the cruise line passing the four million passenger mark this year – just four years after celebrating its three millionth passenger.

Launching today, the $4 million promotion is open to Australian and New Zealand travellers who book on any P&O cruise before November 25, the day the cruise line will officially welcome its latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, into its fleet as part of a Five Ship Spectacular on Sydney Harbour.

Travellers will receive an onboard credit of up to $800* per room with their booking and also go into the draw for a chance to win one of four places on a four-night P&O cruise to Moreton Island, sailing from Sydney on December 9, 2015.  

Onboard that cruise, the four finalists will play a thrilling numbers game in front of fellow guests, which will give each of them a shot at becoming an instant millionaire.

Announcing the promotion, P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Sture Myrmell said the cruise line wanted to thank its loyal guests for their part in helping the cruise line reach its four million passenger milestone.

“We’re very excited about our four million passenger achievement as well as what lies ahead so we wanted to celebrate with our biggest ever promotion – and giving our guests the chance to become a cruise millionaire,” Mr Myrmell said.

For more information about the promotion visit www.pocruises.com.au/cruisemillionaire

*Terms and conditions apply.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Cunard Appoints Leading Interior Designer For Queen Mary 2 Refurbishment 

Cunard has appointed SMC Design to lead the development of Queen Mary 2's interior spaces in preparation for her major refit next year. The Cunard flagship will undergo an extensive refurbishment over 25 days (May 27 – June 21, 2016) that will see the introduction of new interior designs and new guest experiences on the world’s most iconic ship.

This announcement follows recent news that Queen Mary 2 will gain 15 new single cabins and an additional 30 Britannia Club cabins during the refit, as well as more pet kennels. 

Specialising in the maritime sector, the SMC Design team has worked on many ships from small luxury yachts to some of the largest ships ever built. The company also has a history of working with Cunard ships past and present, leading previous refit projects of QE2, Cunard Countess and Cunard Princess while also being involved in the designs for its current fleet: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. SMC Managing Director Andy Collier was part of Queen Mary 2’s launch design team. 

The new Queen Mary 2 designs will introduce completely new areas and venues to the ship, from staterooms to dining, as well as exciting refreshments to existing areas. 

The original art-deco masterpiece and Cunard legend Queen Mary has been one of the sources of inspiration for the new interior designs, bringing Cunard’s decorative and glamorous past into the 21st century. With new designs featuring signature colour schemes, new carpets, new furniture as well as more decorative fixtures installed throughout the biggest liner in the world, the design approach is set to impress guests and ensure the flagship retains her leading position.

In addition, Cunard has been consulting and testing different ideas with thousands of past and future guests across the world. These ongoing consultations are an important element of the work being undertaken in preparation for refit. 

Cunard Director Angus Struthers said it was essential to keep Queen Mary 2 in excellent condition and to ensure her offering was always ahead of the competition.  

“The work undertaken so far has been an impressive collaboration between ourselves, SMC and Cunard guests to ensure we are taking the right approach with our flagship,” Mr Struthers said. 

“SMC Design has an unrivalled reputation and having worked with them on several prestigious Cunard projects in the past, we have every confidence in their ability to produce a revitalised, stunning flagship in 2016. Already a magnificent ship, Queen Mary 2 will become even more magnificent”.

SMC Design Managing Director Andrew Collier said the team had researched Cunard’s rich heritage in both the nautical and design fields and incorporated aspects of pattern and design into their plans. 

“Particular attention has been paid to taking inspiration from the original Queen Mary and our aim is to enhance existing designs as well as implement a decorative overhaul, looking to emphasise the feeling of understated elegance. Clean lines and simple designs will instil a sense of glamour and relaxation,” Mr Collier said. 

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Photos Credit : Brian Gaskin, Cruise The Seas Travel And Media, Cruising Australia.

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