Harbour Fireworks to Celebrate Historic Sydney Visit by Two Queens 

Sydneysiders will be treated to a fireworks display on the Harbour on Thursday night (March 12) to celebrate the historic visit of two Queens – Cunard’s magnificent flagship Queen Mary 2 and her younger sister Queen Victoria.

For the first time, both ships will spend the day together in Sydney, with fireworks set to light up the sky at 9.15pm as Queen Mary 2 leaves Circular Quay and prepares to sail past Queen Victoria which will be anchored at Athol Buoy near Taronga Zoo.

To celebrate the Royal Rendezvous and its 175th anniversary year, Cunard has also announced it will launch a special photo exhibition on the boardwalk at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday, featuring many never before seen images of its world famous fleet.

Captured by Sydney photographer James Morgan, who has photographed Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth around the globe, the OneSevenFive exhibition will provide a rare perspective of life onboard the three Queens. 

Featuring 71 stunning images displayed on boards standing two metres high, the collection’s final two images – from Thursday’s rendezvous – will be installed on Friday morning.  The public exhibition will remain in place on the boardwalk for 175 hours, until Thursday March 19. 

Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia which represents Cunard in Australia, said the Royal Rendezvous fireworks and the exhibition would be a wonderful celebration of Cunard’s 175th anniversary.

“Cunard’s ships always turn heads whenever they are in Sydney and I think everyone in this city would remember the three very special Royal Rendezvous of other Cunard ships on our Harbour over recent years,” Ms Sherry said.  

“This Thursday will be no different as Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria make history with their first ever joint visit to Sydney.

“With their distinctive black hulls and red funnels, they’ll be a spectacular sight for people to enjoy throughout the day and into the evening when a wonderful fireworks show will provide the prelude to Queen Mary 2 sailing past Queen Victoria in the Harbour.”

Ms Sherry said Cunard hoped Sydneysiders would also enjoy the exhibition capturing the magic of the iconic trio.

“It’s very fitting that it’s launched in Sydney which has provided the backdrop to so many special Cunard moments over the years,” she said.

The 2000-guest Queen Victoria will berth in Sydney around 5.30am on Wednesday March 11, spending the day at the Overseas Passenger Terminal.  Around 3.30am the following morning, the 90,000-tonne ship will move from Circular Quay to Athol Buoy to make way for her “big sister” Queen Mary 2 which will sail through the heads around 3.45am on Thursday morning,

Still the largest ship ever to visit Australia, the 151,400-tonne Queen Mary 2 will berth at the Overseas Passenger Terminal around 4.45am on Thursday, with Sydneysiders set to wake to a two-ship spectacular in their Harbour.

The Sydney visit of the 2600-guest Queen Mary 2 comes two months into her 113-night world voyage while Queen Victoria’s call comes seven weeks into her 103-night cruise around the globe.  

From Sydney, Queen Mary 2 will sail on her second circumnavigation of New Zealand, returning to Sydney on March 25 before continuing on her world voyage. Queen Victoria will sail to New Zealand before heading across the Pacific to America. 

A timeline of the events over March 11-12 and details of past Royal Rendezvous in Sydney are below.

2015 Royal Rendezvous Activities 

n.b ship times approximate

Wednesday March 11

* 4.30am – Queen Victoria sails into Sydney Harbour

* 5.30am – Queen Victoria berths at Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay

Thursday March 12

* 3.30am – Queen Victoria sails from the Overseas Passenger Terminal to berth at Athol Buoy

* 3.45am –  Queen Mary 2 enters Sydney Harbour

* 4.45am – Queen Mary 2 berths at the Overseas Passenger Terminal 

* Noon  – OneSevenFive photo exhibition of Cunard’s Three Queens on Sydney Opera House’s Western Boardwalk opens to public 

* 9pm – Queen Mary 2 departs Overseas Passenger Terminal en route to Milford Sound, New Zealand

* 9.15pm – Fireworks as Queen Mary 2 sails past Queen Victoria at Athol Buoy

* 11pm – Queen Victoria sails from Athol Buoy en route to Akaroa, New Zealand

Thursday March 12 – Thursday March 19

* Midday - OneSevenFive Cunard photo exhibition opens to the public on the Opera House Western Boardwalk, running for 175 hours.

Cunard Royal Rendezvous in Sydney

* February 20, 2007 – Sydney was brought to a standstill for the city’s first official Cunard Royal Rendezvous when Queen Mary 2 made her maiden visit to Australia, meeting with QE2 in Sydney Harbour.

* February 24, 2008 – The newly launched Queen Victoria made her first visit to Sydney for a Royal Rendezvous with QE2, which was making her final call to the city before she retired from the Cunard fleet.

* February 22-23, 2011 – Queen Mary 2 and the newly launched Queen Elizabeth visited Sydney for the city’s third Royal Rendezvous.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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It Was A Tale Of Two Cities For The P&O Cruises World Cruising This Weekend.

It was a tale of two cities for P&O Cruises World Cruising this weekend, with its newest ship Britannia debuting in Southampton in the UK, while its much-loved Aurora spent two days in Sydney showing off her brand new livery.

Britannia’s arrival in Southampton on Friday (UK time) comes in the lead up to her official naming in a glittering ceremony on Tuesday March 10.  The 143,000-tonne ship looked stunning, gliding into the UK port wearing the cruise line’s new livery including the world’s largest contemporary version of the Union Jack.

The cruise line’s new Union Jack design and bright blue funnel were also on show in Australia with the 76,000-tonne Aurora making her first visit to Sydney since her refurbishment in November last year.

Aurora’s two-day call on Friday and Saturday came during her 105-night South America and Pacific Adventure, taking in 30 destinations across 15 countries.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises UK.

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Queen Elizabeth's Moving Tribute to Our ANZAC Hero's.

After visiting Auckland and Sydney as part of her world voyage, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is now bound for Gallipoli with 11,500 red poppies representing the number of Australians and New Zealanders who lost their lives during the ill-fated 1915 campaign.

A timelapse video shows how Aucklanders and Sydneysiders made their mark on the Queen Elizabeth 100 poppy wall and gives an insight into the moving commemorative services held onboard the shipin both cities.

The full poppy wall, along with a remembrance book, will form the centrepiece of a service onboard the ship in the waters off the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 24, the eve of the Anzac centenary.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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Carnival Cruise Line yesterday celebrated the birthday of legendary writer and cartoonist Dr Seuss with a party onboard Carnival Legend.

Cruise guests of all ages - along with character favourites including Cat in the Hat and Sam I Am - joined the celebrations complete with a birthday cake and colourful party food inspired by the pages of Dr Seuss’ books.

 
 
Born on March 2, 1904 Theodor Seuss Geisel – known as Dr Seuss – died in 1991 but would have celebrated his 111^th birthday yesterday.
 
The spirit of Dr Seuss’ books are captured on every Carnival Legend cruise from Sydney through the cruise line’s special ‘Seuss at Sea’ family program.  The program features fun onboard activities themed around the author’s books and their characters which have delighted children across generations, including a zany Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast and Seuss-a-palooza Character Parades around the ship.

 
The popular Seuss at Sea activities will be introduced to sister ship Carnival Spirit in November this year.

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Seabourn Encore to Debut Down Under During Maiden Season

Seabourn has announced that the newest addition to its ultra-luxury, small ship fleet, Seabourn Encore, will cruise Australian waters during its first season.

Following a gala naming ceremony in Singapore on January 7, 2017, the 40,350-tonne ship will embark on its official inaugural voyage, a 10-day cruise to Bali. The next stop will be Australia with Seabourn Encore making nine maiden calls to Australian ports from Darwin to Geelong between January 22, 2017 and March 17, 2017. 

On sale now, Seabourn Encore’s inaugural Australian season will include:

* A 16-day cruise from Bali to Sydney on January 17, 2017, including its first calls to Darwin (January 22), Cairns (January 26 and 27), Townsville (January 28), Hamilton Island (January 29) and the line’s maiden call to the Sunshine Coast port of Mooloolaba (January 31) from $12,499*

* A 16-day cruise from Sydney to Auckland on February 2, 2017, including the line’s first call to Phillip Island (February 4) in Victoria and the ship’s maiden visit to Melbourne (February 5) from $14,500*

* A 16-day cruise from Auckland to Sydney on February 18, 2017, including the ship’s maiden call to Geelong (March 4) from $14,500*

Seabourn Encore will depart Sydney on March 6 cruising back to Singapore via Mooloolaba, Hamilton Island, Townsville, Cairns and Darwin before heading to Europe for its inaugural northern summer season.

“We’re excited to offer a diverse range of itineraries for the maiden season of Seabourn Encore and provide our guests with the opportunity to visit some of the most charming and sought-after destinations in Asia, Australia and New Zealand on the world’s newest and most beautiful ultra-luxury ship. Seabourn Encore will set a new standard of ultra-luxury cruising that can only be found on Seabourn, and we can’t wait to share her with our guests,” Seabourn President Richard Meadows said. 

Following the ship’s delivery in December 2016, Seabourn Encore will offer two pre-inaugural cruises including a 16-day voyage from Athens to Dubai, visiting various exotic ports including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Israel; Petra, Jordan; and Muscat, Oman. The voyage will be followed by an 18-day pre-inaugural voyage departing Dubai on December 20, 2016, sailing to Arabia, India and Southeast Asia before arriving at Singapore.

Seabourn Encore will expand and build on the line’s award-winning and highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which revolutionised ultra-luxury cruising with enhanced accommodations and innovative amenities when they were introduced between 2009 and 2011. Seabourn Encore will maintain the line’s high ratio of space per guest, enabling highly personalised service by close to one staff member for each guest on board. A sister ship, Seabourn Ovation, will join the fleet in 2018, and, with the addition of the two new ships, Seabourn will have the youngest and most modern ultra-luxury fleet in the industry.

Designed by hospitality design icon Adam D. Tihany, Seabourn Encore will feature modern design elements and innovations consistent with the line’s reputation for understated elegance. The ship will be configured with one additional deck and new expanded public areas, and is expected to carry just 604 guests, based on double occupancy. In addition, every suite will feature a private veranda.

For more information visit http://encore.seabourn.com call 13 24 02 or visit www.seabourn.com

*All fares are in Australian dollars, for new bookings only, per guest, double occupancy, and subject to availability.

Information supplied by: Seabourn Cruise Lines.

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HOLLAND AMERICA LINE HOSTS FUNDRAISER LUNCHEON ABOARD MS AMSTERDAM IN SYDNEY FOR CANCER COUNCIL NEW SOUTH WALES

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015, in Sydney, Holland America Line hosted a fundraiser luncheon aboard ms Amsterdam for Cancer Council New South Wales, one of the chapter partners in the line’s On Deck for a Cause fundraising program that supports Cancer Council Australia and five other global cancer organisations. The ship is in the middle of its Grand World Voyage and visited six Australian ports, including overnight calls at Sydney, Adelaide and Fremantle.

Following the luncheon, guests attended a presentation about On Deck for a Cause in the ship’s main show lounge and then were invited to tour the ship.

“Cancer is a global disease, and we’re honoured to support an organisation such as Cancer Council NSW that greatly helps those affected,” said Orlando Ashford, president for Holland America Line. “We are proud to join in the fight for a cure through community support and fundraising on every sailing in partnership with our guests from around the world through our On Deck for a Cause shipboard program.”

About Cancer Council NSW

Cancer Council NSW, a member of Cancer Council Australia, is a community funded, community focused cancer charity dedicated to the defeat of cancer. Working across every area of each cancer type, the organisation conducts and funds world-class research that underpins the prevention of the disease, provides ongoing support for people as they go through the cancer journey and constantly advocates for governments to take action on cancer.  

“Cancer Council NSW is honoured to be affiliated with Holland America Line. Their generous contribution is greatly appreciated and helps towards the work we do to beat cancer. We couldn’t ask for a more beautiful setting for the luncheon, and we look forward to a long partnership with Holland America Line,” said Jim L’Estrange, CEO of Cancer Council NSW.

About Cancer Council Australia

Cancer Council Australia began in 1961 as the Australian Cancer Society, when the six state Cancer Councils agreed to establish a federal body to promote cancer control at the national level. In 1997 the eight jurisdictional members agreed to expand the Society, renaming it the Cancer Council Australia.

Over its 50-year history, Cancer Council Australia has transformed from a small secretariat to a strong federal body that has become Australia’s peak independent authority on cancer control. Cancer Council Australia seeks to engage all Australians in their work to reduce the impact of cancer in Australia through advocacy, research, education and support.

Holland America Line Community Support

On Deck for a Cause invites guests to participate in a non-competitive 5k fundraising walk on every sailing aboard each of the line’s 15 ships, with proceeds distributed among leading organisations in the primary countries where guests are from. This includes the American Cancer Society, Canadian Cancer Society, Cancer Council Australia, Cancer Research UK, Deutsche Krebshilfe (German Cancer Aid) and KWF Kankerbestrijding (Dutch Cancer Society).

In addition, each year Holland America Line hosts more than 25 shipboard charity luncheons for nearly 5,000 guests in its homeport cities. Holland America Line and its corporate foundation’s charitable-giving programs provide cash sponsorships, in-kind donations, free- and reduced-fare cruise donations for non-profit fundraising events, donations of usable shipboard items around the world, employee volunteerism and other philanthropic activities.

Photos are avalible at:  https://www.cruiseimagelibrary.com/c/ds8udhym.

For more information about Holland America Line, contact a travel professional, call 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au

Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog. Access all social media outlets via the Online Communities quick link on the home page at 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.

Information supplied by: Holland America Line.

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Tribute to Anzacs as Queen Elizabeth visits Sydney en route to Gallipoli 

In the lead up to the Gallipoli centenary, Australians today paid their respects to the nation’s fallen Anzacs at a special memorial service onboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth in Sydney.

Reflecting Cunard’s long-standing association with Australian wartime campaigns, including Gallipoli, the cruise line invited locals to pay tribute to their Anzac heroes by placing a poppy in a wall of remembrance beside Queen Elizabeth at Circular Quay.   

Onboard the ship, leading political, military and community figures attended a special morning service featuring a tribute to the first Anzacs by Australian War Memorial Director, Dr Brendan Nelson.

Among the guests at the service was Braidwood resident Mark Keys, the great grandson of 2nd Lieutenant Francis Jensen who was killed on his third day of battle at Gallipoli.  

Visitors to the two-metre poppy wall, formed in the shape of “100” to mark the upcoming centenary, were also invited to honour their war heroes by writing a personal message in a remembrance book. 

Both the poppy wall and remembrance book will form the centrepiece of a commemorative service onboard the ship on April 24, the eve of Anzac Day, when Queen Elizabeth reaches the waters off the Gallipoli Peninsula during her current world voyage.  Messages from the book will be read out at the service and the book will then be placed in Queen Elizabeth’s library where it will remain in memory of the heroes of Gallipoli.

Representing Cunard, Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said the line was honoured to pay tribute to the Anzacs during Queen Elizabeth’s Sydney visit.

“Cunard’s proud 175-year maritime legacy is interwoven with our military history. Since the Crimean war in 1853, Cunard ships have assisted Allied forces in times of warfare, including during the First World War when 20 Cunard ships were lost,” Ms Sherry said.

“Two Cunard ships – Mauretania and Aquitania – moved troops to the Mediterranean at the time of the Gallipoli expedition, with Aquitania then converted to a hospital ship, carrying 25,000 injured Allied troops back to the UK until early 1916.

“Cunard’s relationship with Australian forces continued during the Second World War when thousands of our troops sailed to war from Sydney on the original Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth. 

“It’s a strong connection, so we are extremely proud that the new Queen Elizabeth can play a part today in remembering the service and sacrifice of the original Anzacs. Their nation building contribution continues to resonate down the generations because the families of those who served have never forgotten.”

New Zealanders commenced the poppy tribute last Friday, placing flowers in the wall during Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Auckland. By the time the wall is carried onto Queen Elizabeth in Sydney tomorrow evening at the end of her two-day visit, it will be filled with 11,500 flowers, signifying the number of Anzacs who lost their lives in the ill-fated campaign. 

Mr Keys and his wife Germaine will travel as the custodians of the Australian poppies to Turkey, where Mr Keys will become the first family member to visit his ancestor’s memorial site at Lone Pine.

Monies raised through the poppy wall during the ship’s Sydney visit will be donated to Legacy to support their work with military families.

Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Sydney comes six weeks into her 112-night world voyage which will see her travel from Australia to Europe via Asia and the Middle East before returning to the UK on May 3.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

Photo credit: James Morgan.

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CLIA Marks Record Year with Record Night of Nights

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia celebrated another massive year of cruising with a record night at the 2014 Cruise Industry Awards at The Star Event Centre in Sydney on Saturday.

With two new award categories in the mix, an unprecedented 19 award winners were announced across nine categories. 

The night saw Western Australia’s Bicton Travel take out the top gong for 2014, Gold Agency of the Year, for the fourth time in five years. Accepting the award, Bicton founder Carole Smethurst thanked her team in Perth.

“I’ve got fantastic staff at home – all of you deserve this,” Ms Smethurst said.

Cruise Express Balmain took out the silver award while Phil Hoffmann Travel Glenelg won bronze.

Ozcruising received the inaugural Online Agency of the Year award, while MTA’s Wendy Allen became the first mobile agent to be recognised at the industry awards night.

Recently retired journalist Ian McMahon, founder of Travel Bulletin and long time editor of Travel Weekly, was welcomed into the CLIA Hall of Fame for his long running commitment to the industry as a trade editor. He said he felt privileged and honoured to receive the accolade.

“I hope I’ve reported on the industry with integrity and chronicled events in an illuminating and enlightening way,” Mr McMahon said.

CLIA Australasia Chairman Gavin Smith said the annual awards night was a chance for the association and its 34 member cruise lines to celebrate the outstanding contribution of local agents. 

“As the Australasian industry goes from strength to strength, it’s no surprise that our 14th awards night was our biggest yet. With two new awards recognising the changing landscape of the industry and more than 500 industry members coming together to applaud their peers’ hard work and dedication, it really is the biggest night on the cruise calendar,” Mr Smith said. 

In a moving tribute, Mr Smith recognised former P&O Cruises New Zealand manager and CLIA board advisory member Shannon Currie posthumously for his decade-long contribution to New Zealand cruising.

Close friend and Seabourn NZ GSA Joe O’Sullivan accepted the acknowledgment on behalf of the Currie family, saying he played an instrumental role in the industry. 

“I think he would have been slightly embarrassed by the limelight but immensely proud to be recognised by his peers,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

The sell-out gala event was again hosted by Channel 7 sportscaster and host of AFL Game Day Hamish McLachlan and Winners & Losers actress Melanie Vallejo. An after party sponsored by TravelTek saw celebrations cruise well into the night.

For a full list of winners please see the following page. For more information visit www.cruising.org.au

Information supplied by: Cruise Lines International Australasia [ CLIA ].

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Queen Elizabeth Arrives in Sydney Tomorrow for Moving Tribute to Anzacs

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will form the backdrop of a moving tribute to Australia’s Anzac heroes in Sydney from tomorrow as the ship visits the city for a two-day stay before sailing to Gallipoli as part of her world voyage.

The cruise line is inviting travel agents and the travel community to join Sydneysiders in paying their respects by leaving a red poppy in a two-metre high Poppy Wall in remembrance of the Anzacs, which will be in front of Queen Elizabeth at Circular Quay from 8am tomorrow.

Formed in the shape of “100” to mark the upcoming centenary of the Gallipoli campaign, after a call to Auckland and two days in Sydney, it will be filled with 11,500 poppies representing the number of Australians and New Zealanders who lost their lives in the 1915 campaign. 

Visitors will give a gold coin for each poppy and be invited to leave a personalised message in a special commemorative book, with all donations to go to Legacy.

Reflecting Cunard’s strong connection with Australian and New Zealand troops, the poppy wall and the book will be moved onto Queen Elizabeth when she departs Sydney late Wednesday and will form the centrepiece of a memorial service onboard the ship as she sails the waters off the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 24, the eve of Anzac Day, during her current world voyage.  

A guest of honour at the Sydney and Anzac Cove services will be Braidwood resident Mark Keys, the great grandson of 2nd Lieutenant Francis Jensen who was killed on his third day of battle at Gallipoli. Mr Keys and his wife Germaine will travel as the custodians of the Australian poppies to Turkey, where Mr Keys will become the first family member to visit his ancestor’s memorial site at Lone Pine.

What:  Queen Elizabeth Poppy Wall of remembrance 

Where:  In front of Queen Elizabeth at Circular Quay 

When: The poppy wall will be available at Circular Quay from 8am to 6pm on Tuesday and from 730am to 6pm on Wednesday.

Information supplied by: Cunard Line.

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CLIA Australasia’s Masters Conference Takes a Quantum Leap in 2015

CLIA Australasia has announced its 2015 Masters Conference will be an oriental voyage on Royal Caribbean’s new ‘smartship’ Quantum of the Seas.

Commencing in Shanghai on October 16, 2015, with two nights pre-cruise accommodation, the conference will include a five-night cruise to Beijing including calls to ports in Japan and Korea.

With Quantum of the Seas featuring the North Star, a glass capsule that lifts guests more than 300 feet in the air, a skydiving simulator, bumper cars, roller skating rink and a bar run by robot bartenders, CLIA Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said he expected places at the conference would be snapped up very quickly.

“Asia is a hot destination for cruising and we know our members are champing at the bit to try Quantum of the Seas with its cutting edge cruise features,” Mr Jardine said. 

Revealing details at the Cruise3sixty Australasia conference in Sydney today, Mr Jardine said US-based sales guru and motivator Scott Koepf would return to oversee the 17th Masters after being heaped with praise following the 2014 event. 

Masters participants will attend a series of sessions that are designed to help differentiate their personal and business approach to selling cruise holidays. Between seminars they will be able to explore Fukuoka in Japan and Busan in South Korea.

After completing the course and a comprehensive post-conference assignment, agents will enter the prestigious Cruise Masters’ ranks.  

The annual Masters event, which combines intensive training sessions with a first-hand cruise experience, is open to all agents currently holding CLIA Ambassador level accreditation and employed by a CLIA member travel agent. 

Participation fees for the 2015 event cost A$2300 per person twin share and A$3400 for singles including the five-night cruise from October 18 to 23 in a guaranteed balcony cabin as well as two nights’ pre-cruise accommodation at Le Meridien Shanghai on October 16 and 17. For more details visit www.cruising.org.au

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: Cruise Lines International Australasia [ CLIA ].

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CLIA Australasia Welcomes Virgin Australia as an Executive Partner

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia’s executive partner ranks have reached new heights with Virgin Australia joining the association this year.

In welcoming the airline as a new member, CLIA Australasia General Manager Brett Jardine said 

a CLIA membership was a valuable asset at this time of growth.

“The awareness of cruising in Australasia continues to go from strength to strength and by bringing key players together through the association, we are able to deliver extensive benefits to our members and the cruising public,” Mr Jardine said. 

Virgin Australia’s General Manager Global Sales Shirley Field said membership was an important step for the airline, which services many cruise embarkation ports in Australasia.

“Like the cruise industry, Virgin Australia’s network extends across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands so it makes sense to foster greater coordination through CLIA Australasia,” Ms Field said. 

“A strong partnership between Virgin Australia and CLIA Australasia is good news for our customers as it enables us to work more closely to provide a seamless experience for our guests.”

Virgin Australia will be among the 45 companies exhibiting as part of this year’s Cruise3sixty conference on February 27.

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: Cruise Lines International Australasia (CLIA)

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P&O Cruises Puts Meetings on the Agenda as it Expands its Fleet

Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises has announced a major push into the meetings market, creating a new P&O Conferences division to spearhead an increase in corporate bookings.

Officially launched at the AIME meetings exhibition in Melbourne today, the cruise line’s conference drive comes as it prepares to expand its fleet from three to five ships, with the addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden in November this year.

P&O Cruises Director of Sales Ryan Taibel said the fleet expansion would open the door to host more onboard meetings, with the boutique size and meeting rooms of the two latest ships providing the ideal setting for conferences at sea. 

“The arrival of Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria also expands our itinerary offerings with 40 per cent of our cruises sailing for 2-5 nights – perfect for corporate meetings,” Mr Taibel said.

Mr Taibel said the expanded fleet would also enable the cruise line to offer cruises from ports around the country including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle and Cairns, with Singapore and Auckland sailings also available.

He said the cruise line had been buoyed by an increase in meeting bookings in 2015, particularly from the retail and pharmaceutical sectors and associations. Its new P&O Conferences division is targeting 12,000 meeting delegates in 2016, with meetings of 100-200 delegates the prime target.  

“Cruising in Australia is booming and in the same way that we have established ourselves as a leading holiday option for travellers, we want cruising to be high on the consideration list for the nation’s meeting organisers,” Mr Taibel said.

Led by Senior Sales Manager Rebecca Mutanen, the new division recently added former Luna Park account executive Christopher Rich as Corporate Groups Executive. P&O Cruises is the only cruise line to offer a dedicated conference team based in Australia.

The cruise line has its largest ever stand at AIME this year and has produced a new dedicated conference brochure highlighting the features of meetings at sea. The 48-page brochure details the meeting facilities across the ships, including dedicated conference theatres for 200 guests and a range of new meeting rooms onboard Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria.  It also features newly created conference packages including cocktail, beverage and internet options.

Ms Mutanen said a price comparison showed that a three-night meeting on land including all group extras would cost an estimated minimum of $1059 per delegate compared to $906 for a cruise with more extras.

“You don’t have to look hard to see that cruising is a compelling option. Not only do we have scores of short itineraries on offer, we are also very affordable with the cost of the venue, accommodation, audio visual, meals and entertainment all included in the fare,” Ms Mutanen said. 

She said the cruise line’s group booking discounts meant organisers were eligible for cash discounts, while delegates sailing on bookings of seven nights or more could receive onboard spending money.

“But it’s not just the prices that are attractive to organisers – a cruise offers a fantastic way to integrate business and leisure and ensure a meeting is truly memorable.  Every organiser wants to do something different with their budget and cruises are a great option which delivers a real ‘wow’ factor.

“In between sessions, delegates can chill by the pool, play laser tag or climb the funnel with P&O Edge Adventure Park. At night there are shows, live music and plenty of bars and lounges to enjoy.

“Our ships also offer a minimum of eight dining options, including Salt grill by Luke Mangan, with Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden featuring a range of extra restaurants like Dragon Lady for great panAsian dining and Angelos for fantastic Italian cuisine.”

P&O Cruises’ present fleet includes Pacific Jewel, Pacific Pearl and Pacific Dawn, with Pacific Eden and Pacific Aria joining in November.

For more information please go to: http://youtu.be/qoQ14YF3FQI

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Royal Caribbean announces partnership with Channel 7 juggernaut My Kitchen Rules

23rd February 2015 – Royal Caribbean International has announced a new TV campaign and partnership with Channel 7 juggernaut My Kitchen Rules. The most watched primetime program in 2014, My Kitchen Rules continues its dominance in 2015 with the current 6th season consistently placing number one program for the night. The campaign will showcase the exceptional dining available on Royal Caribbean’s world class ships alongside the outstanding meals created on the highly rated show; as well as introduce some of the cruise line’s passionate crew. 

To celebrate, Royal Caribbean will also launch a special Wine & Dine promotion, offering guests a free premium beverage package and free pre-paid gratuities for two*.

“My Kitchen Rules is the perfect fit for us because at Royal Caribbean International, we pride ourselves on our range of world class dining options onboard all of our ships. Just as cuisine from around the world is featured on the show, from innovative Japanese to family style Italian, festive Mexican to fine dining American grill houses  – the food is international and there is something for everyone onboard a Royal Caribbean ship,” said Sean Treacy, commercial director, Royal Caribbean Australia.

Launching today, Royal Caribbean’s “Wine & Dine” promotion is the first of its kind for the cruise brand. Guests who book before 11 April 2015 will enjoy a free premium beverage package for two, valued at up to $1,026, as well as free pre-paid gratuities for two people. In addition, Balcony or Suite bookings for the local 2015/16 Australian season will also receive a bonus US$200 spending money per stateroom. The offer includes all new bookings on Australian sailings departing between 21 September 2015 and 28 April 2016 and on worldwide sailings* departing after 15 May 2015 of five-nights or longer. 

Fares start from $1,799 for a 10-night sailing from Singapore to Fremantle departing 3 November 2015 onboard Australia’s newest ship Explorer of the Seas, calling at Port Klang and Langkawi in Malaysia and Phuket in Thailand, and offering over six different restaurants for guests to choose from.

Onboard all Royal Caribbean ships, guests will experience a wide range of dining choices that vary in style, atmosphere and cuisine, depending on your mood. There are restaurants for romance, family-style cafes and even formal, fine-dining. Depending on the ship, travellers can choose Italian, Japanese, American steakhouse, Brazilian and Mexican cuisine, alongside family favourites such as a 50’s style diner and an ice cream parlour. 

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

*Excludes sailings onboard Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Trans-Atlantic sailings and all sailings departing from China

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. Celebrity Solstice will also sail her fourth local season out of Sydney. 

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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P&O CRUISES' AUSTRALIA PACIFIC PEARL MAKES HISTORIC MAIDEN CALL TO THE SAPPHIRE COAST TOWN OF EDEN.

Not even the threat of bad weather could rain on P&O Cruises’ parade as Pacific Pearl made her maiden call to the Sapphire Coast town of Eden yesterday.

Despite concerns about the impact of cyclonic wild weather in Queensland, Eden woke up to a beautiful day with a manageable swell on Sunday - a perfect day for tendering.

The 63,875-tonne ship anchored in the harbour and tendered guests to Breakwater Wharf for a day of sightseeing. 

The town was out in force with local volunteers assisting guests along with representatives from Cruise Eden who have worked tirelessly to secure cruise ship visits.

State Treasurer and Member for Bega Andrew Constance joined a local press conference telling media that work would soon begin on a joint state and federal funded infrastructure project to enable mid-size ships to berth alongside the wharf.

Captain Tony Herriott conducted a plaque exchange with local representatives onboard the ship, commending the volunteers and representatives from Cruise Eden ahead of a tour of Pacific Pearl. 

Pacific Pearl is scheduled to become the first cruise ship to call at Mornington tomorrow. 

She will return to Eden on March 6, while Pacific Dawn will make her first visit to the Sapphire Coast town on November 24 this year.

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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  Carnival Launches Dive-In Movies Down Under     

Carnival Spirit is set to make a splash when it returns from a major dry dock in August with Dive-In Movies at its new Seaside Theatre. 

As part of a $44 million refurbishment, a 5m by 3m screen will be mounted near the mid-ship pool bringing popular movies and the latest Hollywood blockbusters under the sun and the stars.

Carnival Cruise Line Australia Vice President Jennifer Vandekreeke said Carnival Spirit’s poolside cinema would take onboard entertainment to new heights.

“Our guests will be able to watch comedies, action flicks and family-friendly films from the comfort of a deck chair or while taking a dip in the mid-ship pool.  At night, we’ll offer special screenings under the stars with all the trimmings including popcorn and blankets as well as special theme evenings ranging from Date Night to Family Movie Time,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

“We think our fun-loving Australian guests will dive straight in to the new concept.” 

Post dry dock, Carnival Spirit’s mid-ship pool deck will become a hive of activity with a new RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar, BlueIguana Cantina Mexican eatery and Guy’s Burger Joint all being added near the big screen.

“With the Seaside Theatre and a deck full of new bars and eateries creating an exciting new mid-ship entertainment precinct, we’re taking the fun factor to a whole new level on Carnival Spirit,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

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

About Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is the largest cruise line in the world with over four and a half million guests travelling every year. The cruise line has two ships based in Australia, Carnival Spirit – the largest and newest cruise ship to be based in Sydney year round – and sister ship Carnival Legend, sailing from Sydney each summer. With 45 activities from zen to adrenalin to enjoy each day, both ships offer fun-loving families and couples memorable and great value holidays. 

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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Record Week as P&O Cruises Puts Three 

Regional Towns on its Cruise Map

In an historic week of cruise firsts, Australia’s leading cruise line P&O Cruises is poised to make its maiden visits to Eden, Portland and Mornington as part of a new itinerary featuring regional Aussie gems. 

During an eight-night roundtrip cruise which departs Sydney on Saturday (February 21), Pacific Pearl will make P&O Cruises’ inaugural visit to Eden on NSW’ South Coast on Sunday (February 22), before becoming the first cruise ship to call at Mornington Peninsula (February 24) and Portland (February 25) in Victoria’s south.

Rounding out the food-lover’s itinerary, the cruise will also include a call at Kangaroo Island, where guests can sample the island’s famed produce as part of a mini FEASTival, which will be laid out during each of P&O Cruises’ five visits to the South Australian port this year. 

P&O Cruises Senior Vice President Tammy Marshall said the cruise line had been pioneering cruising from Australia for more than 80 years and was proud to be introducing its guests to some special new ports. 

“We’re thrilled to be taking our guests to some of Australia’s most beautiful coastal areas, while also spreading the valuable cruise dollar further in what is sure to be a boon for these regional towns,” Ms Marshall said.

Over the next 12 months, P&O Cruises will make five calls to Victoria’s picturesque Mornington Peninsula, seven to Portland on the Great Ocean Road and five to Eden, injecting almost $7 million into the regional communities. Esperance and Busselton in Western Australia will also join the growing line-up of regional ports in the months to come. 

The regional cruises are in line with recent research undertaken by peak national industry body Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) showing that 85 per cent of Australians planning to take time off over summer intended to have a domestic holiday.

The addition of two more ships – Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden – in November will take P&O Cruises’ fleet to a record five ships and pave the way for more itinerary options.

Other regional ports to benefit from P&O Cruises visits include South Australia’s Port Lincoln, Mooloolaba on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and Burnie and Port Arthur in Tasmania.

For more information visit www.pocruises.com.au

or call 13 24 94.  

 The region’s largest and longest-serving cruise operator, P&O Cruises Australia leads the way in cruising as Australasia's only 'home brand' and its favourite cruise line. P&O Cruises has been sailing the region for more than 80 years, and has pioneered new destinations around Australia, the Pacific and Asia including Papua New Guinea, as reported in the New York Times’ 52 top destinations for 2015. On November 25, 2015, P&O Cruises will welcome two additional ships to its current three-ship fleet becoming the nation’s largest cruise line with five ships cruising from eight home ports in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. The addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden has paved the way for exciting new cruise options including deployments from every mainland state in Australia and an extended deployment from Auckland. The pair herald a new era for P&O Cruises, as reflected in its new brand repositioning - P&O Cruises, Like no Place on Earth.  

Information supplied by: P&O Cruises Australia.

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Carnival Legend had its first taste of Tasmania this week making its maiden calls to Port Arthur and Hobart as part of a seven-night itinerary taking in Australia’s southern states.

As pictured, Carnival Cruise Line’s newest Australian superliner spent a full day and evening in historic Hobart on Monday, where guests took in the breathtaking view from towering Mt Wellington, explored the city’s historic Battery Point district and headed up the river to the stunning Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), before relaxing by the waterfront to sample some of Tasmania’s famous seafood as well as its fine wines and beer.

The cruise also took travellers to the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, the best-preserved convict settlement in Australia, where visitors experienced the haunting beauty of the peninsula while hearing the fascinating stories of Australia’s penal past.

On their return to Sydney, guests will spend a full day and evening in Melbourne as Carnival Legend made its maiden call to the Victorian city tomorrow.

Carnival Legend will return for an Apple Isle encore when it sails to Tasmania on a four-night short break cruise departing Sydney on April 16.

Informatiion supplied by: Carnival Cruise Line, Australia.

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Carnival Launches Mystery Island Tours

After five years of community consultation, Carnival Australia has launched the first shore excursions at one of the Pacific’s most popular destinations – Mystery Island.

Cruise passengers will now be able to try four experiences during a visit to the picturesque Vanuatu destination including a glass bottom boat tour over the aqua waters, a guided snorkel safari on the reef, a glass bottom kayak excursion and stand up paddleboarding along the beautiful bay between the uninhabited Mystery Island and nearby Aneityum where the local community lives.

Two additional cultural tours of Aneityum’s Anelghowhat village will soon be available with highlights including a visit to a fish bone hut and the ruins of the Presbyterian church (once the largest in the South Pacific) where missionary John Geddie helped bring an end to cannibalism.

Located in the southernmost Tafea province, Aneityum is known as the “last island in Vanuatu”. Carnival Australia Destinations Director Michael Mihajlov said cruise ships had been calling at Mystery Island for 30 years but tours had only just been introduced in the remote region due to the absence of satellite communication, fuel supply, suitable management structures and insurance coverage as well as the challenges associated with transporting a boat to the island. Kayaks and paddleboards have been progressively carried to Mystery Island on P&O Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line ships.

“It has been a long road developing these excursions and providing the necessary resources to the community to manage them but we’re very excited about what the tours mean for the people of Aneityum and their beautiful cruise port Mystery Island,” Mr Mihajlov said.

“We are passionate about working with the island communities we visit to create a sustainable tourism success story so that cruise ship visits deliver a positive experience for all.”

While other Carnival Australia cruise lines Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises and Holland America Line will also offer the tours, Carnival Cruise Line guests became the first to try the snorkel safari, glass bottom boat and paddleboarding when Carnival Spirit called at the island on Friday.

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia and New Zealand Jennifer Vandekreeke said Mystery Island was the line’s most popular South Pacific destination and these tours would only make it more appealing.

“While we know our guests love simply going ashore and taking a stroll through the markets, posing for photos in the infamous cannibal pot or just enjoying the beach, these tours add a new dimension to the destination. Mystery Island is the perfect spot for a paddleboard, snorkel and glass bottom exploring and these experiences will be a real highlight for our guests,” Ms Vandekreeke said.

Information supplied by: Carnival Cruise Lines Australia.

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Love Boat Be Cool –

Australian Remix of an 80s Classic

One of the best known TV theme songs of the eighties “The Love Boat” has sailed into the 21^st century, thanks to a remix by award-winning Australian electronic dance music duo Yolanda Be Cool.

The funky new version of The Love Boat was commissioned by Princess Cruises in Australia to mark the Sydney visit of the cruise line’s modern day “Love Boat” Pacific Princess on Valentine’s Day.

Pacific Princess, the namesake to the original Princess Love Boat, sailed into Sydney Harbour early on Saturday morning, wearing a 4.5 metre illuminated heart on her bow and with a three-metre high heart painted on her funnel to mark the occasion.

The ship’s arrival was captured by a team of videographers for a special Princess video, featuring the Yolanda Be Cool remix. To see the video visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH2nF8U-It0

Yolanda Be Cool is an Australian electronic dance music duo who scored an international hit with the house smash "We No Speak Americano" in 2010. Their most recent track “Sugar Man” has also been making waves around the world and is in the top 10 ARIA singles dance chart.

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line was thrilled the Sydney DJs – Andrew Stanley and Matthew Handley – had agreed to take the much-loved song in a new direction.

“Everyone knows the Love Boat theme but we wanted to do something special with it to really surprise people as we mark Pacific Princess’ Valentine’s Day visit and celebrate Princess’ 50^th anniversary,” Mr Allison said.

“In the words of the song itself, this remix is ‘exciting and new’- we think it will capture the hearts of a whole new generation and original fans will fall in love with it all over again.”

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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Princess Cruises Tops Up its Australian Wines 

In line with its new destination offerings and the changing guest palettes, Princess Cruises has refreshed its onboard cellars with a range of new Australian wines on its local ships.

From Coal River in Tasmania to Margaret River in Western Australia, the wine list on the cruise line’s three local ships – Sun Princess, Dawn Princess and Sea Princess – is being decanted and refilled with 30 new drops, all but three from Australian vineyards.

Australian wines, including the line’s first verdelho from Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley as well as a top shelf D’Arenberg cabernet sauvignon from McLaren Vale, now represent 75 per cent of the local wine list.

While there is still French Champagne for the many special occasions celebrated onboard, as well as wines from Italy, New Zealand and California, the new blend reflects guest demand.

A team of connoisseurs, including Princess Cruises’ resident expert and Director of Guest Beverage Experience Karl Brenner, spent six months trying more than 120 wines before deciding on the final list.

Mr Brenner said Australians were big on home grown wine. 

“The main shift has been towards white wines with a big range of chardonnay and sauvignon blanc on offer as well as two new Australian rieslings and more white blends, which are growing in popularity,” Mr Brenner said. 

“In terms of reds, shiraz and cabernet are still favourites among our Australian guests so we’ve added some exciting new drops from South Australia. 

“While the Hunter Valley is the most highly represented region with eight wines on the new list, South Australia is the state with the most on offer with 15 different wines from the Barossa, McClaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills.”

Princess Cruises Vice President Australia & New Zealand Stuart Allison said the cruise line regularly updated its wine lists to fit in with new trends and guest demand, ensuring there was a wine to suit every taste, occasion and budget. 

“Australians have a refined palette when it comes to wine so our onboard offering needs to be up to date with trends on shore. As part of this latest wine revitalisation, we’ve introduced more local drops and more sought-after varietals such as verdelho, chardonnay and semillon,” Mr Allison said.

The addition of seven new wines from Western Australia, including four from Margaret River, reflects growing passenger demand based on new destinations the cruise line is visiting, he added. 

Diamond Princess became the first cruise ship to call at Busselton last year with another nine Princess visits to the Margaret River port scheduled in the next two years.

The new wine lists have been introduced on Sea Princess and Dawn Princess and will soon be onboard Sun Princess.

For more Information please go to www.princesscruises.com

Information supplied by: Princess Cruises.

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